Course Background:
An integral part of ancient Daoist practice was to take time out to retreat from the busyness of the world and reconnect with nature. Amidst the fast-pace of the modern world, where our rapidly advancing technology increasingly cuts us off from the natural world, the need to retreat is more important than ever.
Our 5 Element Seasonal Retreats offer a chance to relax and reconnect with the inner peace that lies at everybody’s core. This process is facilitated through simple, yet powerful Daoist and Classical Chinese Medicine practices.
Each retreat is conducted in harmony with the energies of each season. In accordance with Daoist theory, there are five seasons which each correspond with one of the 5 elements:
Spring – Wood
Summer – Fire
Late Summer – Earth
Autumn – Metal
Winter – Water
By developing an awareness of each of these 5 elemental energies we can help to deepen our connection to the wider environment and strengthen our body, mind and spirit.
Retreat Descriptions:
Each of our Retreats incorporates theory and practices in accordance with the energies of each Season and its associated element:
Spring/Wood Retreat: In spring, the dynamic Yang energy of Wood bursts forth from the restful Yin energy of winter. As plants and animals stir into activity, we too can tap into this period of rebirth and growth, cleansing and replenishing ourselves after the winter period. - Click Here for dates
Summer/Fire Retreat: During summer, the dynamic Yang energy reaches its peak. The days are long and the world is active and full of life. At this time, we can access the abundance of Yang energy, safely grounding its strong, dynamic Qi within our bodies to provide robust health, joy and vitality.
Late Summer/Earth Retreat: Late summer is a period of harvest. The boundless activity of the Summer Fire period has now produced an abundance of ripe fruits and grains. As we harmonise with the Earth element, we can nourish and ripen our internal Qi, providing a strong connection to our centre that allows us to keep balance regardless of what may be happening around us.
Autumn/Metal Retreat: During Autumn, the restful Yin energy begins to emerge from the dynamic Yang activity of summer. At this time, Nature begins to draw inwards in preparation for winter. Therefore, we too should learn how to draw in our Qi, conserving it and consolidating it, so that we are protected from illness and prepared for the cold weather ahead.
Winter/Water Retreat: In winter, the restful Yin energy reaches its maximum and life enters a period of dormancy and stillness. At this time it is important to follow nature, quieting the mind and ceasing activity, so that we can connect with the deep, powerful energy of the Water element. By doing so, we set up an energetic foundation, ensuring that we are strong and healthy for the coming year.
Venue: Our retreats take place at the Classical Chinese Medicine Society Headquarters in Forres, Scotland. Set in the beautiful natural surroundings and crystal clear air of the Scottish Highlands, the venue provides a haven from the stress and pollution of the urban environment and is an ideal location to relax and regenerate.
Dates: Please see our Calendar for specific start and finish times and course dates.
Course Fees: £365 – (Non Residential) – Fee includes meals.
Additional Information:
Lunch and Dinner is included on all retreats. In accordance with the Daoist practices followed at the Shen Foundation, meals are vegetarian and use organic and locally sourced ingredients where possible. (Please note that for the Winter/Water Retreat students are encouraged to fast or eat as lightly as possible so only soups will be provided)
Please note that our retreats are non-residential and that accommodation is to be arranged by attendees.
Travel & accommodation information may be found here.
Private treatments with our practitioners can also be arranged during courses. Please see the Treatments page for more information.
Booking:
Please see our Calendar for upcoming retreat dates and our Booking page for booking information.
Alternatively you can call us on 01309696984 or email bookings@lingtraining.net
