As autumn settles in, the landscape begins to shift. Leaves fall, the air becomes crisp, and nature quietly turns inward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is guided by the Metal Element, a time associated with letting go, refining what is essential,...
Category
Self-care
Five Element Theory for Beginners: An Embodied Guide
The Five Element Theory is one of the cornerstones of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Shiatsu bodywork. While it can be approached as a philosophical model, it is also deeply embodied, inviting us to feel and experience the elements within our bodies, emotions,...
Introduction: Reconnecting Through the Five Elements
The Five Elements in TCM In a world increasingly disconnected from nature’s rhythms, the Five Elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—offer a timeless blueprint for holistic wellbeing. At Shiatsu Bodywork Academy in Ōkaihau,...
Joyful Dance – the Summer Element
A Reflection on the Summer Shiatsu RetreatAs we reflect on our Summer Shiatsu Retreat, we feel immense gratitude for the group that gathered with us for this special weekend. A group of six, three of whom had already shared past retreats with us, came together in a...
Spring Shiatsu Retreat Report: A Journey of Growth and Connection
Our recent Spring Shiatsu Retreat was a gathering that beautifully embodied the essence of the season. Set in an intimate space with only six participants, each woman brought unique perspectives and experiences, creating a tapestry of insights that enriched the...




