Yin Late Summer Toolkit: Harmonize with the Earth Element
As we move into the late, dog days of summer, we transition into one of the most unique times in the Taoist calendar dominated by the energy of the earth element. Earth season is nature's brief pause between the active growth and expansion of the Yang phase of the year (Yang) and prior to the maturation and disintegration of the Yin phase. As we observe nature shift to the relaxed contentment of harvest time, we too are encouraged to slow down and appreciate the beauty and abundance of all that is here right now.. Earth energy grounds us in the present moment, where there is no regret of the past and no worry for the future. The key to thriving during this time is to embrace the positive qualities and actions associated with the earth element namely balance, contentment, gathering and sweetness and try to avoid or decrease the excessive earth qualities of inertia, stagnation, hoarding, fretting and worrying.
In the Late Summer/Harvest Season Yin Toolkit, you will learn specific yin poses, qigong moves and acupressure points that target the meridians (energy pathways in the body) and organs governed by the earth element (stomach & spleen) in order to:
Soften any symptoms of excessive heat and fire which may have built up over the summer.
Clear stagnation and energetic blockages and strengthen your internal earth energy so you feel a greater sense of peace and contentment.
Connect with the physical body to cultivate greater present moment awareness
Decrease the mental habit of “worrying”
Strengthen the digestive system and address mental & physical symptoms of digestive distress
Harmonize with nature's current energy cycle by slowing down and appreciating what is here now.
In addition through guided meditation & self inquiry exercises you will:
Learn techniques for recognizing and relaxing mental habits that perpetuate worry and stress.
Discover the interconnection between your feeling states (worry, stress, depression) and your digestion and tools to bring both into greater balance.
Relax and develop a deep internal sense of contentment independent of any external experience.
Receive some “earthy nourishment” in the form of a mini head massage and aromatherapy.
More details about the Yin Seasonal Toolkit
The Yin Seasonal Toolkit Series is a transformative collection of five workshops, each focusing on one of the five Chinese elements and their corresponding seasons. These 3-hour sessions, hosted by Anne Witmer, blend yin yoga poses, qigong movements, acupressure techniques, guided meditation, and self-inquiry exercises to align participants with the unique energy of each season as described in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Each workshop incorporates special features tailored to the season, such as Ayurvedic hot oil foot massages or other restorative practices, creating a deeply relaxing and healing experience. The series helps participants embrace the wisdom of the five elements—Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal—to cultivate balance, adaptability, and harmony throughout the year. By promoting the smooth flow of chi, addressing internal blockages, and aligning with nature’s cycles, these workshops enhance physical and emotional well-being, offering practical tools for integration into daily life. Open to yoga students, those interested in TCM and Taoist philosophy, and anyone seeking restoration and stress reduction, the series requires no prior yoga or meditation experience.
Why: Wouldn’t you like to struggle less and flow through life with greater ease? According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, abiding by nature’s principles can help you live a long life of health and contentment. This workshop series will provide you with tangible tools and practices to balance your internal energy and harmonize with nature’s energetic cycles so you are able to thrive physically, emotionally and spiritually. It is a priceless practice because there are so few opportunities in our hectic days to have a protected container for relaxation, which is the number one key to health and healing.
How: Integrating practices from both the Yogic tradition and Chinese Medicine, Anne curates a movement and meditative experience to remove internal energy blockages and promote the smooth flow of chi resulting in a profound state of relaxation that promotes physical and emotional healing. Each session explores the unique energy, themes, and needs of the current season and provides practical tools to harmonize with the prevailing energy. Students can use these tools and strategies throughout the season to take charge of their own well-being and create more internal balance and greater feelings of ease.
Specific tools include yin yoga poses, acupressure points & qigong moves that target the meridians(energy channels) and organs governed by the season’s dominant element (water, wood,fire,earth or metal). Additionally, Anne employs guided meditation, visualization and self inquiry practices to uncover and heal emotional blocks that affect one’s health and energy.
Who: This workshop is designed for anyone seeking a restorative and enriching experience. It is ideal for yoga students, especially those who enjoy Yin Yoga, as well as individuals interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Taoist philosophy. Beginners and experienced practitioners alike are welcome, as no prior yoga or meditation experience is required. This workshop is also perfect for those looking to reduce stress, find deep relaxation, and gain tools for restoration and balance. Participants should bring a journal for reflection and an extra pair of socks for comfort after the foot massage.
When: The Yin Late Summer Toolkit will take place on Sunday, September 7th, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:45 PM in the Mat Room at The Practice Space. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot, as space is limited. Please note that the workshop is subject to the studio’s low enrollment cancellation policy, meaning workshops with fewer than 10% of maximum capacity registered by August 20th may be canceled. This is a special opportunity to reconnect with the flow of life this winter and take the first step toward a year of balance, ease, and harmony.
Cost: This workshops costs $48. Autopay and Annual Members receive 25% off.