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Yin Autumn Toolkit: Harmonize with the Metal Element

  • The Practice Space 4220 Southeast Belmont Street Portland, OR, 97215 United States (map)

Yin Autumn Toolkit: Harmonize with the Metal Element

During autumn when we observe the falling of leaves, feel a crispness in the air and sense a pull to turn inward, we are experiencing metal energy which is the dominant force in nature at this time. Autumn initiates the Yin phase of the year, the part of nature's life cycle that focuses on slowing down, letting go and embracing the darkness.  Metal season brings us face to face with the idea of life’s impermanence and can encourage us to focus more on what truly matters most. On a psychological level, metal energy challenges us to deal with change and loss and is associated with the emotion of grief. But metal is also associated with courage, resilience and the ability to truly appreciate and value the beauty of each moment of life. 

In the Autumn Yin Toolkit, you will learn yin poses, qigong moves and acupressure points that target the meridians (energy channels) and organs governed by metal energy (lungs & large intestine) in order to: 

  • Release stagnation & encourage the smooth flow of your internal metal energy.

  • Support physical and emotional release 

  • Soothe the physical and emotional symptoms related to loss & grief

  • Stimulate feelings of hope, courage and trust in life

  • Encourage connection with your genetic and spiritual ancestral heritage

In addition through guided meditation, self inquiry and group ritual you will

  • Clarify your deepest values and learn how to use them to guide your decisions and actions

  • Explore the freedom and even bliss that emerges when we learn to really surrender 

  • Learn to trust in a more expansive view of reality that offers unlimited guidance and support 

  • Discover connection, guidance and support from the ancestral, spirit world. 

This is a powerful workshop for anyone who is currently struggling with change or loss or for those who are simply interested in learning more about the principles of Yin energy and how it supports you in living a more peaceful, balanced life. 

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 Autumn Toolkit will take place on Sunday, November 7, 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 October 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.

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September 7

Yin Late Summer Toolkit: Harmonize with the Earth Element