Our bodies reflect the natural world. The five phases of Chinese medicine (wu xing 五行) mirror our inner and outer terrain, reflecting our bodies, seasons, life cycles, and more. Embody the five phase archetypes of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal with acupuncturist Jiling Lin, who guides you to personalize your nourishing life practices, adapt to changing seasonal rhythms, and come home to the wild beauty of your inner radiance.

Begin with an overview of the five phases, and focus on one phase each session, in which you:

• Move: Practice yoga asana and intuitive movement to experience the phases by aligning body, breath, and Spirit
• Create: Explore journaling, drawing, and other expressive arts to integrate our understanding
• Immerse: Identify the phases within ourselves and in nature, recognize imbalance, and learn Chinese medicine theory for restoring dynamic equilibrium
• Connect: Explore the landscape with nature connection activities to welcome direct insights from the five phases in their natural splendor

As the world shifts and shapes us, we can choose how we dance with our inherent gifts and challenges. Observe the five phases within and around you to honor your limits, embody your highest potential, and transform your greatest weaknesses into your greatest strengths.

Please note: We welcome all levels of experience and modifications will be offered for most levels of mobility. However, this workshop is not appropriate for those who use wheelchairs.

Upon registration, you will be sent a link to a required pre-arrival questionnaire. 

Recommended Reading:

• Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine by Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold
• Tao Te Ching: A New English Version by Laozi Tzu and Stephen Mitchell

Faculty has provided a suggested packing list:

We will be indoors and outdoors for most sessions. Please bring the following to maximize your physical comfort in any environment:

• Comfy clothes to move in
• Layers to easily shift between chilly mornings and evenings, and warm days
• Walking shoes, sun hat, and small daypack
• Water bottle or insulated thermos

Optional items to consider bringing:

• Altar items: We will cocreate a Five Phases altar. You’re welcome to bring a small meaningful object to contribute!
• Yoga mat & props: Omega will provide these, however you may prefer your own 
• Journal, writing utensil, and art-making materials: We will provide paper and pens, although you may enjoy having your own
• Something to sit on outdoors (such as a light mat or cushion)