RETURN TO SELF
What is RETURN TO SELF?
RETURN TO SELF is a series of drop-in workshops held over twelve months, in line with the seasonal changes in the Wye Valley, to be held in Llandogo Village Hall. Llandogo is nestled beautifully next to the River Wye.
The intention is to offer space and time to nurture our physical bodies and RETURN TO SELF in an embodied, creative, practical way, drawing on ancient wisdom, tools and Eastern approaches to bodyfulness*. Participants can sign up for a single session, any number of workshops, or the full series.
As we explore Five Element Theory* we will offer you the chance to support your wellbeing through:
practical self-care approaches such as self-shiatsu, stretches, movement sequences
exploring what it means to be bodyful*
reflection and meditation on seasonal energy shifts and patterns we experience or hold in our bodies.
Why RETURN TO SELF?
Five Element theory underpins Shiatsu, Acupressure, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Qigong (among others). It offers a unique lens and many rich metaphors to view the physical landscape in which we live, as well as our body, mind and spiritual landscape.
In offering the chance to gain a deeper connection and understanding of self, we will create space to explore how we can best thrive and live in harmony with the seasons physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Vicky and Georgina, both Shiatsu Practitioners, came to Shiatsu later in life following experiences that led them both to explore how best they could live more healthily, with vibrancy and more personal meaning. Both are passionate about sharing the beautiful, rich tapestry of Five Element theory and how this can provide support and guidance in our ever-busy, complicated world.
Meet your hosts Vicky and George:
What will happen during a RETURN TO SELF workshop?
We will lead the three-and-a-half-hour workshop with your wellbeing in our hearts. By offering a range of gentle movement exercises and explorations, interspersed with poetry, meditations and energy activities, you will have chance to move, breathe, relax and reflect personally on what is happening for you.
As each seasonal workshop will bring a different energy, we will gently and collaboratively embrace what is in the room each session, and create spaciousness for everyone to honour their physical, emotional and embodied truth in the way that they wish. There will no expectation to ‘share’, rather just an opportunity to reflect.
As Shiatsu practitioners, we are highly mindful that everyone’s physical and energetic experience can be highly personal and at times private. This will be honoured at all times, so ensuring participants have safety and privacy as desired.
Who is RETURN TO SELF for?
The gentle, creative workshops will be suitable for people interested in:
deepening their commitment to personal wellbeing
learning more about seasonal energy shifts and Five Element Theory
learning self-shiatsu approaches and acupressure for personal use
learning more about what it means to be bodyful
seeking time out to explore seasonal changes in their bodies
connecting with others who have a similar curiosity and desire for wellbeing.
When are the other RETURN TO SELF workshops?
2-5.30 pm Saturday 14th September 2024
2-5:30 pm Saturday 16th November 2024
2-5.30 pm Saturday 18th January 2025
2-5.30 pm Saturday 5th April 2025
2-5.30 pm Saturday 21st June 2025
Please note:
**Please wear soft clothing with layers depending on the weather/temperature. Bring water, a yoga mat/ blanket and a cushion for comfort when working on the floor.
**The workshop will run with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 participants. Doors will close 1 week before each event to confirm hall hire with the venue. Please purchase tickets at least one week before the event.
**Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel, please do so 48 hours before workshop 1. For the remaining workshops, we ask for a 1-week notice period. There will be an admin fee of £2 to cover transaction fees for any cancellation.
Bodyfulness begins with a strong awareness of the physical self in a place supportive of contemplation and deep understanding of bodily nature and desire. (Christine Caldwell)
Five Element theory shows how different energies/forces in nature meet to create harmony and balance. Its rich metaphors help us to make sense of ourselves, our bodies and our world. It underpins Shiatsu, Acupuncture and Qigong. *No prior experience of Shiatsu or energy work is needed and the session will be accessible for all levels of physical ability.