by Jocelyn Watkin | Jun 24, 2025 | Information |
Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was a way to re-balance yourself when you feel ‘out of kilter’. Absolutely! Through the ancient, revitalising art of 5-Element Qigong you can learn how restore and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
- When: Saturday 20 September 2025, 9am – 3.30pm. (Please arrive between 8.40 – 8.55am)
- Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Manurewa, Auckland 2105
- Participants: Adults aged 18+. Beginners will be very welcome.
- Limited to 10 participants
According to ancient Chinese philosophy, everything in the universe (including humans) is composed of five elements – Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire. When these five are in harmony, all is well. When they are not, you feel ‘out of balance’, tired and often stressed.
As a qualified qigong instructor, Jocelyn Watkin offers an in-depth opportunity to learn the venerated practice of 5-Element Qigong — a gentle yet powerful sequence of movements based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, which harmonises your movements and breathing in line with the five elements.
The timing of 20 September has been especially chosen. It is just before the Spring Equinox, which is when day and night are in perfect balance, making this the ultimate time to awaken gently from winter’s quiet stillness, to restore harmony within ourselves and realign with the rhythms of nature.
Night and day in perfect balance and harmony during an equinox
This gentle, nourishing retreat will include:
- Guided 5-Element Qigong, which is suitable for all abilities.
- Time in nature to align with seasonal energy.
- Mindful breathing and relaxation.
- A beautiful guided art activity where you’ll make a mandala, symbolising balance and harmony.
- A small, supportive group of adults in a peaceful setting.
Whether you’re new to qigong (pronounced chee-gong) or looking to deepen your existing practice, this retreat is a chance to reconnect with what truly sustains you — inside and out.
Read the reviews and feedback from Jocelyn’s 1-Day qigong retreat in May 2025:
- “One of the best retreats I have ever attended.”
- “It was a nurturing and valuable day to spend time healing myself.”
- “Loved the philosophy and history behind qigong.”
- “I loved the welcoming and accepting atmosphere of the whole day.”
Retreat pricing:
- Early-bird price (up until 1 July 2025): $155 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
- After 1 July: $175 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
Limited to 10 participants.
Please check the full refund policy further below.
Please contact me (Jocelyn) if you have questions or to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting me on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. I will advise options for payment.
What is 5-Element Qigong and why is it so good for you?
The five elements of Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
All qigong has health benefits, as based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). However, the ancient practice of 5-Element Qigong is a gentle yet especially powerful sequence of breathing and movement focussed on your meridian/energy lines and your internal organs.
At this 1-day retreat you’ll learn:
- About the fascinating five elements: Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire and how, according to TCM, they are believed to exist in everything in the universe, including us humans.
- The ancient history of how these five elements relate to the absolute and infinite potential of Yin/Yang to improve strength and balance.
- How to rebalance yourself when you feel ‘out of kilter’ with the curative power of 5-Element Qigong.
- How the gentle, restorative 5-Element Yin movements support your wellbeing and, according to TCM, also the ongoing health of your meridian lines/energy channels and organs for the spleen (earth), lung (metal), kidney (water), liver (wood), and heart (fire).
- How to self-care and nurture yourself with healing qigong to release tension and stiffness.
By flowing through movements that support each element, 5-Element Qigong brings emotional and physical energy back into harmony.
What is the Spring Equinox?
Daytime and night-time are of equal length during an equinox
There are only two equinoxes each year. One in Autumn and the other in Spring.
These happen when the sun is directly overhead at noon on the equator and the Earth’s axis is tilted neither towards nor away from the sun.
This means the length of daylight and the duration of night-time are equal and the world rests in harmony and balance.
According to TCM, practising 5-Element Qigong at the seasonal turning point of the Spring Equinox helps us to:
- Let go of winter sluggishness and stress.
- Gently awaken our energy for the months ahead.
- Improve flexibility, circulation, and organ health.
- Harmonise and centre our thoughts and emotions.
- Connect more deeply with our breath, mind, body, and nature.
What are mandalas and what sort of mandala will you create during the retreat?
A mandala
A mandala is a geometric, symmetrical pattern of shapes and symbols. The word means ‘circle’ in Sanskrit. A mandala is also known by other names in different cultures. Most mandalas are circular or enclosed in a circular shape.
Since the dawn of time, humans have been drawn to circular forms. Rock carvings found all over the world incorporate round shapes in various ways: spirals, concentric circles, symbols of the sun and moon, and also from nature such as fern fronds.
It is probable that the cycles of nature inspired these artworks, such as day moving into night and back into day, the ever-changing phases of the moon, and the rhythms of the seasons.
Some mandalas have symbolic meanings in several different cultures and religions. For example, sand mandalas, also known as dry paintings, are guides to long-held traditions and are essential for meaningful rituals in meditation, healing, or spiritual journeys.
These symbolic rituals are practised by diverse populations such Native Americans, particularly the Navajo, by Tibetan and Buddhist monks, as well as Indigenous Australians, and also by Latin Americans on certain Christian holy days.
Whatever their purpose across the world, mandalas all have one aspect in common – their pleasing, circular forms are easy-on-eye. They also resonate with most of us on a deeper level as they represent unity, balance, harmony, and inter-connectedness, particularly with the natural world.
Once you start noticing mandala-like forms, you’ll see their influence everywhere – art, architecture, carpets, fabrics and furnishings, mosaics, church windows, and dream catchers, just to name a few.
During this retreat, and with the guidance of your teacher, you’ll create either:
A vibrant window mandala using the colours of the five elements, which you’ll take home as a glowing symbol of harmony and balance.
Window mandalas
Or, if the weather co-operates, you’ll design and build a unique nature mandala (also called earth art) made from leaves, fronds, petals, twigs, etc. On completion, you’ll take a photo of your creation as a lasting reminder of your connection to the elements and the cosmos. You’ll then leave your actual mandala behind to ‘re-wild’ – either back into the earth or to be scattered by the four winds.
A nature mandala (Photograph by Marg Davidson and featured with her kind permission)
At this retreat, you’ll also have time to explore the tranquil Auckland Botanic Gardens
Spring Blossom Valley in the Auckland Botanic Gardens
At the end of the retreat, there will be time for your own self-guided tour of these peaceful gardens. You may like to:
- Take a stroll through Spring Blossom Valley and feast your senses as bright bulbs push through the ground and blossom explodes on the trees. https://www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/our-gardens/spring-blossom-valley/
- Immerse yourself in Shinrin-yoku (Japanese for ‘forest bathing’) in the dappled seclusion of the native bush area.
- Admire the many fascinating and intriguing sculptures throughout the gardens.
- Embark on your own ‘sniffari’ and delight in the aromas of the edible and herb gardens.
- Get dreamy with the palms or in the rose garden.
- Or simply wend your way along the many walkways to refresh your eyes and senses on nature at its best.
Retreat pricing:
- Early-bird price (up until 1 July 2025): $155 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
- After 1 July: $175 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
Limited to 10 participants.
Please contact Jocelyn if you have questions or to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
About your instructor
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn Watkin is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor in Auckland, New Zealand, who has been enjoying the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years.
She has visited China three times, which included training at the sacred Wudangshan (Wudang Mountain), which is the tūrangawaewae of tai chi and qigong. (Tūrangawaewae is a Te Reo Māori word meaning spiritual home or a place to stand where you feel especially connected).
Jocelyn also teaches restorative, nature journaling and mindfulness-based art therapy to help people manage and relieve stress. When combined with the calming, meditative breathing and movement of qigong, creativity becomes even more restorative.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonials about Jocelyn from her May 2025 retreat:
- “Fabulous – and I am being honest. Your values and respect shine through Jocelyn.”
- “You are positive and affirming and when you help it felt as if you really were focusing on us as individuals.”
- “Pace and variety perfectly pitched without losing depth of understanding.”
Here are all the details of this 1-Day Retreat to Discover Balance and Harmony with 5-Element Qigong
When: Saturday 20 September 2025, 9am – 3.30pm (please arrive between 8.40 – 8.55am)
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available in the main car park at the Auckland Botanic Gardens. The Friends Building is a house located next to the main carpark (on the Western side of the car park).
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in and flat-soled shoes. Please bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm, as we will be sitting still for some of the time (chairs will be provided for this). If you want to explore the gardens after the retreat, please also bring an outdoor jacket.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack.
Who should attend?
This retreat is open to anyone aged 18+ who seeks to refresh and rebalance their body, mind, and soul. Ideal for beginners and also for tai chi and qigong enthusiasts who want to get more out of their practice.
Please contact Jocelyn to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
Cancellation policy
This retreat must be paid for in full to reserve your place.
- Early-bird price (until the 1st July 2025): $155 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
- After 1st July: $175 per person (100% refundable until 20th July)
- A 50% refund is available if you withdraw between 21 July and 20 August
- We are unable to provide refunds if you withdraw after 20th August 2025.
If you are unwell on the day of the retreat (20 September 2025)
Please do not attend if you are sick or have a cold, Covid or ‘flu-like symptoms. In these circumstances, you will be issued with a credit to attend another tai chi or qigong workshop or retreat by Kia Ora Tai Chi.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing during the retreat. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this retreat.
If you’d like to be among the first to know when other exiting Kia Ora Tai Chin, Qigong or SpinPoi retreats and events happen, please RSVP to receive our free monthly e-newsletter as follows:
- If you are viewing this on a desktop computer – please look to the right of this page for the “Monthly Newsletter Signup” box.
- If you are viewing on a mobile phone or tablet – please scroll down to find the “Monthly Newsletter Signup” box.
- Please complete your details and click the “Sign up” button. Or, you can ask questions and request the free e-newsletter using our “Contact Us” page: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
by Jocelyn Watkin | May 6, 2025 | Information |
Dreaming of flying towards the sun this winter?
Feeling all shivery in the mornings? What about when curled up under two duvets at night, dreaming of flying north or to the Pacific Islands to follow the sun?
Before you book that one-way ticket, here’s a cosy secret: you can turn up your inner heat right here at home — no passport required.
As the days grow shorter and the chill sets in, many of us start hunting for ways to stay warm without simply cranking up the heater or huddling under several blankets all winter.
Tai chi and qigong might not be the first things that come to mind when you think of keeping warm — but they should be.
So, can tai chi really help quell the quivery shivers of winter?
Yes, absolutely.
Tai chi and qigong are gentle forms of exercise, which means they’ll warm your body just as any physical movement does. But they go far beyond that.
The magic lies in the how. Slow, flowing movements combined with deep, mindful breathing do more than just get your blood moving — they improve your circulation and help your body absorb oxygen more efficiently.
Unlike high-intensity workouts that burn through your oxygen and leave you gasping, tai chi and qigong cultivate a quiet, lasting energy that lingers long after your practice ends.
That’s why so many practitioners describe a subtle, comforting warmth spreading through their bodies — not just during the session, but for hours afterward.
In the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this warmth has an even deeper explanation. Tai chi and qigong help to cultivate your qi — your life force, your mauri — which is believed to support your body’s natural defenses and resilience. A strong flow of qi is said to help you withstand not just winter’s chill, but also many seasonal bugs and fatigue.
And it’s not just ancient wisdom saying this. Modern research backs it up, too. Studies show tai chi and qigong can positively influence immune system functioning and reduce inflammation — helping you feel stronger and more energised during the colder months.
Explore the science here: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/tai-chi-and-qigong-can-boost-immunity/
So next time you reach for another pair of socks or wrap yourself in a blanket, consider this: tai chi and qigong could be your warmest allies this winter.
I welcome new beginners at my tai chi classes in Clendon, Manurewa, on Wednesday evenings, 6.30 – 7.15pm. Your first class is free. Find out more: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/classes/
The photo above of me practising tai chi in the glow of a huge, close-up photo of the sun was taken at the ‘Astronomy Photographer of the Year’ exhibition, Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery, in Hamilton. https://tewharetaonga.nz/
by Jocelyn Watkin | Feb 21, 2025 | Information |
1-Day Retreat: Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
This retreat happened on 3 May 2025. It was a gentle, yet powerful, day of self-care, healing, and rediscovery.
Together, the participants and I breathed, moved, relaxed, reflected, and let go. We explored how to embrace life’s cracks and imperfections — not as flaws, but as golden seams that make us whole.
The beautiful feedback I received touched my heart:
- “One of the best retreats I have ever attended.”
- “The kintsugi really supported the morning’s learnings.”
- “It was a nurturing and valuable day to spend time healing myself.”
- “Loved the philosophy and history behind qigong and kintsugi.”
- “I learned that it is vital to let go of trying to be perfect all of the time.”
- “I loved the welcoming and accepting atmosphere of the whole day.”
If you’d like to be among the first to know when other exiting tai chi, qigong or SpinPoi retreats and events happen, please RSVP to receive our free monthly e-newsletter as follows:
- If you are viewing this on a desktop computer – please look to the right of this page for the “Monthly Newsletter Signup” box.
- If you are viewing on a mobile phone or tablet – please scroll down to find the “Monthly Newsletter Signup” box.
- Please complete your details and click the “Sign up” button. Or, you can ask questions and request the free e-newsletter using our “Contact Us” page: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
More information about the retreat that happened on 3 May 2025:
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm. Please arrive between 8.35 – 8.55am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
This 1-day retreat is truly unique as I have never before offered this amazing combination of ancient Chinese and Japanese practices. Join me for a day of self-care, where I will guide you on how to nurture your health, let go of stress, and embrace the golden magic of imperfection.
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Beginners will be very welcome.
Embrace the Healing Power of Qigong from Ancient China
Awaken the energy flow within you with qigong
Discover the art of healing qigong (pronounced ‘chee gong’) with deep meditative breathing and mindful movements.
Experience a golden glow within as you awaken the energy flow (qi) throughout your body, calm your mind, and enhance your overall wellbeing.
Find Flow through the Japanese Zen concept of Wabi-Sabi
Wabi-sabi means finding beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and the natural flow of life,
Unlock the secret to inner peace with wabi-sabi. This ancient Japanese philosophy encourages the appreciation of the natural ageing process, flaws, the transient nature of things, and in finding beauty in the imperfect rather than striving for perfection.
How liberating would it feel to stop trying to be perfect all of the time? Absolutely, it would be like winning a ‘get out of jail free’ card in a board game. By embracing imperfection and going with the flow, your movements will become more fluid and you’ll improve your qigong.
By integrating wabi-sabi into your qigong practice and also everyday life, you’ll let go of stress and tension, sleep better at night and feel more energised during the day.
Rediscover Wholeness with Kintsugi (all materials will be provided for this)
A broken ceramic bowl that has been joined back together using golden glue (kintsugi)
Experience the magic of kintsugi (literally “golden joinery”), which is the centuries-old Japanese art of mending broken pottery with golden glue.
Kintsugi is not just a repair method; it’s a profound philosophy that embraces imperfections as beauty, and also acknowledges and respects the unique history of an object that has been broken.
This practice teaches us that flaws and cracks are what make us truly unique. By applying this philosophy to life, you’ll learn to see beauty in every moment and cherish the golden experiences that shape you.
During this retreat, and with the guidance of an expert sensei (teacher), you’ll create your own kintsugi piece to take home—a beautiful reminder that nothing is ever truly broken.
Explore the Tranquil Auckland Botanic Gardens
Camellia garden in the Auckland Botanic Gardens
At the end of the retreat, there will be time for your own self-guided tour of these peaceful gardens. You may like to:
- Explore the serene beauty of the Camellia Garden, which will be just coming into bloom. Camellias are native to both China and Japan (and other parts of Eastern and Southern Asia).
- Immerse yourself in Shinrin-yoku (Japanese for ‘forest bathing’) in the dappled seclusion of the native bush area.
- Admire: the many fascinating and intriguing sculptures throughout the gardens.
- Embark on your own ‘sniffari’ and delight in the aromas of the edible and herb gardens.
- Get dreamy with the palms or in the rose garden.
- Or simply wend your way along the many walkways to feast your eyes and senses on nature at its best.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants.
Please contact Jocelyn to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
About your instructors
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn Watkin is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor in Auckland, New Zealand, who has been enjoying the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years. She has visited China three times and Japan over 10 times. She loves exploring and researching the traditional philosophy and the concept of Zen of both countries.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Sin-Mae Chung: Kintsugi sensei (teacher)
In 2018, Sin-Mae was captivated by kintsugi during a workshop led by sensei Ema Frost. She now assists Ema with these workshops and is keen to share the joy and transformative process of kintsugi.
She is a mixed media creative based in Auckland, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Whitecliffe College of Art and Design.
Sin-Mae thrives on experimentation and continually seeks new mediums and techniques to push artistic boundaries. By day, she is a photographer for a jewellery brand, but her true passion lies in exploring unconventional art forms and expanding her creative knowledge.
Jocelyn and Sin-Mae are looking forward to sharing their knowledge with you at this very special retreat so you can immerse yourself in Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi.
Who should attend?
This retreat is open to anyone aged 18+ who seeks to refresh and rebalance their body, mind, and soul. Ideal for beginners and also for tai chi and qigong enthusiasts who want to get more out of their practice.
Here are all the details of this 1-Day Retreat for Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm, please arrive between 8.45 – 9am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available in the main car park at the Auckland Botanic Gardens. The Friends Building is a small house located next to the main carpark (on the Western side of the car park).
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in and flat-soled shoes. Please bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm, as we will be sitting still for some of the time (chairs will be provided for this). If you want to explore the gardens after the retreat, please also bring an outdoor jacket.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants
Please contact Jocelyn to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
Cancellation policy
This retreat must be paid for in full to reserve your place. A 90% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 February 2025. A 50% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 March 2025. No refunds are available from 1 March onwards.
If you are unwell on the day of the retreat (3 May 2025)
Please do not attend if you are sick or have a cold, Covid, or ‘flu-like symptoms. In these circumstances, you will be issued with a credit to attend another tai chi or qigong workshop or retreat by Kia Ora Tai Chi.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing during the retreat. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this retreat.
by Jocelyn Watkin | Oct 5, 2024 | Information |
Jocelyn crossing the Perry Cycle Bridge on Te Awa, The Great New Zealand River Ride
I love how tai chi is perfect for improving balance. As well as making you fitter and stronger and less likely to have a fall, tai chi is also great for cycle riding.
I organised a successful fundraising event on e-bikes for the Mental Health Foundation of NZ (the foundation) during July 2024’s Mindfulness Month. As well as the participants, many of you also generously donated and, together, we raised over $1,000. Woot!
This meant that, by August 2024, I was awarded the title of ‘fundraising hero” by the foundation and featured on their website: https://mentalhealth.org.nz/fundraising-heroes
A huge thank you to the teams at River Riders NZ and Electrify NZ Botany who sponsored the e-bike ride on Te Awa (the Great New Zealand River Ride) by providing free e-bike hire, helmets and minibus transport to and from Auckland.
Many thanks, too, to everyone who helped with the fundraising, either as a cyclist or the many others who supported the cyclists and also generously donated to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
You are all the real heroes!
If you want to know more about how tai chi can improve your balance, read this…
The e-bike group that completed the successful fundraising event during Mindfulness Month
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jul 22, 2024 | Information |
Embrace your creativity by making earth art/nature art (This one was created by Jocelyn)
Do you wish you could simply let go and be free to try something creative – just for fun, just for you, even if just for a day? Abracadabra … your wish is granted.
Join me at the picturesque Ōtorohanga Museum for a transformative 1-day workshop where the ancient arts of tai chi and qigong blend seamlessly with making earth art in te taiao (the natural world/the environment) and with other mindfulness-based art practices.
When: Sunday 22 September 2024, 10.30am to 4pm
Where: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Ideal for beginners.
This unique workshop is designed to help you to let go of your limits, feel in harmony with nature, and be inspired to embrace your own creative potential.
What past participants are saying: “I loved how easy it was to overcome my self-limiting beliefs about art and creativity.” – Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024
At the workshop, you’ll:
- Learn the soothing art of tai chi and qigong to harmonize your mind and body so you can feel centred and tuned-in with the natural world.
- Experience the tactile delights of leaf rubbing to connect with nature’s textures.
- Immerse yourself in 5-senses nature journaling to become aware nature’s beauty all around you so you can let go and just be in the present moment.
- Create your own earth art/nature mandala, to feel grounded and at peace in the natural environment to further release your creativity. Weather permitting, we’ll also explore the outdoors to forage for materials to inspire your creation to help you feel more connected with Papatūānuku / the Earth Mother.
Creativity is not a ‘magic gene’ inherited by just a few. You’ll discover that everyone possesses the ability to create art that is both meaningful and delightful.
If you have ever been told you’re ‘not artistic’ or ‘not talented’ then this very special workshop is your chance to reclaim your creativity – just for you, just for fun and without limits, without judgement.
This unique workshop is jointly hosted by the Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi. Jocelyn will guide you through every activity with expert care and tuition.
Tickets: $65 per person (+ booking fees of $2.25 apply). All materials supplied including a nature journal.
Buy your tickets through the following link or cut & paste that link into your browser:
https://events.humanitix.com/adult-workshop-inspire-your-creative-flow-with-the-art-of-tai-chi-workshop-code-jwtai?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR017WznEukVtg4XvNVM_sjZraRGRweUY8BMKkIvMyQk5JXA8ZEHzPdu-00_aem_AUfAfPzA0SxMT90Oxk9toD2ij4SoN-b0upPAvwMMPkie8OLPtpf1ZGOFX55DUT6_QwxUW3Rn_FIw9jz9zlAKv4D-
Come along to shake off the winter gloom and revitalize your spirit as we prepare for the renewal of Spring!
What is earth art (also known as nature mandalas or eco art)?
Symmetrical earth art design, created by Jocelyn
Earth art / eco art / earth altars / nature mandalas are temporary designs or sculptures arranged on the ground.
They are usually entirely organic as they are made out of leaves, flowers, petals, twigs, pine cones, shells, and in fact anything natural that has fallen from the trees or been released by the sea. (i.e. not usually snipped or cut).
The style or the ‘look’ of earth art is entirely up to you. It can be structured, concentric, random or eccentric in its layout.
When you forage for your earth art items/materials, they can be selected purely by chance (i.e. what you find on a particular day). Or, you might deliberately search for something in particular because it is symbolic, maybe because you are remembering someone special or a special moment in your life?
I find both the foraging and making process creative, absorbing and fulfilling. You, too, can feel this when you make your own earth art, including letting the peace and tranquility of reconnecting with nature flow over you.
For our workshop, you will arrange your earth art on tables so you don’t have to bend down or crouch on the ground.
Testimonial: “It was so much fun creating earth art … and such a beautiful & replenishing retreat day.” (Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024)
Free-flow design for earth art, created by Jocelyn
If you need more information or if you have questions, please text Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Here are all the details of the workshop
Date and time: Sunday 22 September, 2024, 10.30am – 4pm.
Venue: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on the road outside the museum.
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in, and flat-soled shoes that are comfortable for walking. Please also bring an outdoor jacket (for when you are foraging outdoors) plus a jersey or hoodie to keep warm indoors, especially as we will sit still for some of the time.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack
Places are limited to just 10 people.
Who is the instructor?
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn combines the calming tranquility of tai chi and qigong with mindfulness-based art therapy and sensory, nature journaling to help people to embrace and develop their own creativity, reduce stress and to improve their well-being.
She is a qualified school teacher (now retired), who majored in art and English literature as part of her training. She has been doing tai chi and qigong (the breathing side of tai chi) for over 20 years.
Jocelyn completed her tai chi instructor qualifications eight years ago because she wanted to share the amazing health and well-being benefits of tai chi and qigong with others.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
What is sensory or 5-senses nature journaling?
Sensory journaling
With sensory journaling, you focus on your five senses to tune into and enjoy the world around you. It’s a pleasant adventure in noticing, savouring and to feel truly alive.
It can be done anywhere – on your deck, garden, street, or even near an open window!
Journaling is not just writing. You can draw, doodle, trace around objects, etc, as part of focusing with each of your five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste.
This type of journaling helps you to calm your mind and to relax into the present moment, which will help you to reduce worrying, relieve anxiety and to begin to live the life you really want.
Jocelyn learned about the power of journaling when recovering from post-traumatic stress nearly 25 years ago. It enabled her to break the grip that stress had on her and also freed her thoughts to plan for a better and different life.
Testimonial: “Jocelyn was very relatable because quite often what was being taught had been used by her in real life.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Cancellation policy
The workshop must be paid for in full to reserve your place.
Refunds are available through Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit up to four days prior to the workshop. Not refundable if less than four days prior to the workshop.
In the unlikely event that Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit cancels the workshop, you will be refunded in full.
If you are unwell on 22 September
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the workshop. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish. There will not be any paired exercises or touching by others.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this workshop
Jocelyn (the instructor) has been fully vaccinated for Covid-19.
I would love you to join me for this immersive workshop, which will inspire your creative flow with the art of tai chi.
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
