The Late Summer Retreat unfolds as participants gather around a vibrant display featuring sunflowers, various pumpkin varieties, and colored corn, embodying the essence of the late-summer harvest season. The predominant yellow and brown hues symbolize both the season and its corresponding Earth element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Within TCM, the Earth element is intricately linked to the Spleen and Stomach, acting as the focal point for digestion and energy transformation. Late summer, positioned between the expansive energy of summer and the contracting energy of autumn, is recognized as the season harmoniously associated with the Earth element. The color yellow, prevalent in the display, encapsulates the notions of ripeness, harvest, and the nurturing energy inherent in the Earth.
The Element related to the late summer season in Traditional Chinese Medicinal belief is the element of earth, and all that is connected with her abundance.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Earth element is one of the five elements that are believed to govern various aspects of the body and its functions:
- Organs: The Earth element is connected to the Spleen and Stomach. These organs are seen as central to digestion and the transformation of food into energy for the body.
- Season: Late summer is considered the season associated with the Earth element in TCM. It’s a time of transition between the expansive energy of summer and the contracting energy of fall.
- Color: Yellow is the color associated with the Earth element. It symbolizes ripeness, harvest, and the nurturing energy of the Earth.
- Taste: Sweet is the taste associated with the Earth element. In moderation, sweetness is thought to nourish and support the Spleen and Stomach functions.
- Emotions: Worry and overthinking are emotions linked to an imbalance in the Earth element. When the Earth element is in harmony, it supports a balanced mental state.
- Physical Characteristics: The flesh and muscles of the body are related to the Earth element. A person with a balanced Earth element is believed to have well-developed muscles and a healthy flesh tone.
- Direction: The center is the direction associated with the Earth element. This represents stability, balance, and being grounded.
TCM emphasizes balance among the elements for overall health. A balanced Earth element supports good digestion, a strong immune system, and stability. Imbalances may manifest as digestive issues, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating.
In the nourishing or generating cycle of the Five Elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Earth nourishes Metal. According to this cycle, Earth provides the essential substances and support for the Metal element, promoting a harmonious flow of energy.In the control cycle of the Five Elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Earth controls Water. This means that according to the traditional cycle, Earth has a restraining or controlling influence on Water. We see this in natural landscapes where rivers meander though the earth, as apposed to being straightened, hence causing damage in heavy rain and floods.
In addition, the element of earth is often depicted at the center of the five seasons, aligning with the grounding aspect of the year, the planet earth and the human body, providing stability during changes and transitions in the seasonal cycles. In the Chinese system, the center is associated with the Earth element, and the word “Doyo,” meaning life transition, is used to describe this time.
As the Late-Summer Retreat delves into the grounding energies of the Earth element, incorporating Japanese philosophy with a focus on the Hara. In this introductory course, we started with some introductory work on the Hara, exploring the concept of Hara and feeling the seat of Hara in our own body. The concept of “Hara” in Japanese culture refers to the physical and spiritual center located in the lower abdomen, approximately two inches below the navel. It is considered a vital energy center or “tanden” in traditional Japanese philosophy, martial arts, and medicine.
In simple terms, the Hara is believed to be the core of a person’s energy, strength, and balance. It is often associated with a sense of groundedness, focus, and inner power. Cultivating and being aware of the Hara is important in various practices such as martial arts, meditation, and traditional Japanese arts like tea ceremony or calligraphy.
People are encouraged to engage and move from their Hara, believing that it enhances stability, concentration, and a harmonious connection between mind and body. It’s not just a physical point but also carries a deeper meaning related to one’s center of gravity and spiritual presence.
During the summer retreat, participants delved into the intricacies of Shiatsu Massage, studying the pathways of the related Spleen and Stomach meridians. Demonstrations and hands-on practice facilitated the learning of Shiatsu techniques, emphasizing not only the methods but also the quality of touch and intuitive understanding of the body’s response.
The nourishing and wholesome foods provided during the retreat were crafted to align with the Earth element, emphasizing the taste of sweetness. The carefully curated menu featured millet, chickpeas, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, squashand pumpkin, onions, apples, raisins, dates, and an abundance of orange and yellow foods. Additionally, Teas with Licorice, a classic herb associated with the sweet element of Earth, complemented the offerings.
The group dynamic during the Shiatsu Massage experience was characterized by curiosity and inclusivity, with participants sharing stories and posing thoughtful questions in a communal setting.
Throughout the weekend, the nurturing and grounding facets of the Earth element seamlessly wove into conversations, the quality of touch, and the culinary experience.
Participant comments:
“A fabulous course, especially the fact that it was done in two days!”
“I felt so supported”
“I have gained clarity around meridian work vs muscle work. I feel renewed and reflective.”
“A great reminder to breathe and move with the hara energy”
“I feel more whole – open, body is holding less stress / tension. So healing to be in company with others in a safe nurturing space”
“Autumn was such a wonderful teacher with a beautiful energy. I loved the calm, but passionate way she delivers her course. Jenni I would come back just for the food – it was so nourishing and delicious!”
“It was beautiful informative and fun!”
We express our gratitude to the whole-hearted participants for their enthusiastic engagement in the earthy Late-Summer Shiatsu Retreat.
