FAQs About Classes

What is the purpose of the Five Element movement classes?

The class may be thought of as a moving meditation with a focus on the Five Elements. The purpose is to set up a space so that participants can explore the five elements as they relate to life and health. The Five Elements--fire, earth metal, water and wood act together to promote and describe the creation/destruction cycle that is at the core of life.

What are the Five Element Movement classes like?

The classes are 75 minutes long. They are drop in so each week we will establish anew a working relationship between participants by grounding and centering together. The Five Element governor we are dealing with will then be addressed. For example Fire will be explored as the active changeable archetype, the heart's ruler or emperor. We may use candle flame, photos of fire, simple collage or crayon work, journaling, and our own bodies, breath, and sound to understand this Element. We will spend a few minutes relating the Element we are exploring to the other Five Element Governors.

Is any prior understanding or experience in dance or movement needed?

The class will be highly experiential. The class is not done to music nor is the emphasis interpersonal so it is not a form of psychotherapy. It is also not a form of aerobic exercise.

Is the Tracing the Cretan Labyrinth class separate from the Five Element Movement class?

Yes. Tracing the Cretan Labyrinth class is a one time offering at East West Bookstore. It teaches a simple way to connect with the body chakras using an ancient form, the labyrinth. It uses body movements in a meditative way that emphasizes focus and builds and changes energy patterns and can be seen as a form of tai qi or qi gong.