During this course you will learn how to view the universe through the lens of the 5 Elements from a Chinese Medicine perspective and tap into nature's healing wisdom.
You will explore the concept of Yin and Yang, Chi and the 12 main energy pathways of the body and their corresponding organs and emotions, which will help inform your Yin Yoga practice and teachings. You will understand how the Yin Yoga postures can be utilized to support optimal health and encourage healing and vitality for body, mind and spirit. By the end of the course, you will know the specific therapeutic benefits of each Yin asana and be able to practice and teach in a way that supports your – or your students – personal needs. You will also have the opportunity to explore 5 Elements Medical Qi Gong, different meditations, pranayamas, gentle flows, Yoga Nidra and one of the highlights of our course – learn about the fascinating taoist art of Face Reading, an ancient insightful diagnostic tool!
Yin Yoga: Theory and Practice
Yin and Yang are the Taoist concepts which describe the two relative qualities present in everything. Yin is more internal, passive, cooling and downward. While Yang is more external, dynamic, warming and upward. When these terms are applied to yoga, Yin Yoga is a slower practice where poses are passively held for longer, working on the deep, dense (Yin) connective tissues and joints in the body. The Yin practice is soothing and nurturing and allows us to move away from the "doing" and "achieving" of the yang energy and drop into a more receptive, calm and meditative energy. During our asana clinics we will explore the main poses of the yin practice, how to modify the poses to suit the different bodies, how to use props and how to use the 5 Elements as a framework for creating yin sequences. We will also dedicate time to practice teaching in small groups and one-on-one. In level 2, we will incorporate a trauma-informed approach to the practice and teachings, explore the nervous system and different self-regulation tools as well as dive deeper into how Yin Yoga can assist in dealing with different imbalances and life situations.
Chinese Medicine
Chinese Medicine is primarily based on Taoist Philosophy and is the oldest and most detailed medical system in the world. Taught by an experienced Chinese Medicine Practitioner, this ancient wisdom lays the whole foundation for our course. Through various lectures and workshops, we will explore it's main concepts, such as: Yin & Yang, Qi, Meridians and the 5 Elements with their corresponding organs and emotions, virtues and personality traits. In level 2, you will also explore the art of Feng Shui gaining insights in how to incorporate the 5 Elements, the movements, fluctuations, associations and directions of Qi to make your home your sanctuary. To balance out the Yin energy of the course, we will practice the Taoist 5 Elements Medical Qi Gong, an internal energy practice that focuses on health and longevity.
Face Reading
Using the face for diagnosis is one of the original aspects of Chinese Medicine. This is because the face is a map of life experience and a blueprint for the body's functions. During this course, you will learn which areas of the face correspond to each of the Elements and their respective organs, as well as identifying the signs of strength and weakness related to each of them. From the facial markings, features and colours, you will be able to identify personality traits, assess signs of illness and discover the underlying psychological and emotional issues affecting one's health.
Target Audience and Accreditation
This program is designed for yoga practitioners of all levels, who are genuinely interested in deepening their personal practice and improving their health and wellbeing through Nature's wisdom.
This course is also for yoga teachers that wish to upgrade their skills and learn the Elemental approach of Chinese Medicine applied to the Yin Yoga practice.
Students and practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine that are looking for a post graduate program to gain deeper insights into the 5 Elements, Yin Yoga, Breathwork, Meditation, Medical Qi Gong, advanced Taoist Face Reading and Classical Feng Shui for the benefit of you and your clients.
Western Medical Doctors, Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Physiotherapist, Rehabilitation specialists, Bodyworkers that are looking to invite into their lives, the holistic health benefits of the Eastern Medical approach.
Anyone who is serious about their own wellbeing and want to gain highly advanced tools to accompany you in your quest to have a health span that equals your life span.
For Registered Yoga Teachers, this course counts for 50/100 hours towards Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Program (YACEP).
The Sanctuary · Koh Phangan, Thailand
A unique beachfront resort on the sandy shores of Haad Tien Beach — a small, beautiful tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand. Cosy, relaxed, surrounded by pristine nature.
Open-air shala
Bamboo roof, lanterns, Buddha — practice with the sounds of the jungle and the sea.
Beachfront dining
Three meals a day at the restaurant — fresh, healthy and curated for retreat life.
Jungle setting
Bungalows tucked into the canopy — a few steps from the practice space and the beach.
A day at The Sanctuary
Completion of Level 1 is required to enroll in Level 2. For students who have already completed Level 1 and are joining Level 2, you have the option of (re)joining Level 1 for 50% OFF (€1,090), to refresh your knowledge. All prices include breakfast and accommodation in Shared Dorm. Private Rooms available from €20/night, booked directly with The Sanctuary: holidayasiabookings@gmail.com. Early Bird price applies to full payment received by Dec. 1, 2026.
“Yin Yoga and The Five Element system contributed to big changes in my practice, my teaching and in my life. Marcela and Tobias managed to share their deep knowledge about the elements and yin yoga in such an interesting, genuine, fun and professional way.”
— Linn Gyland, NorwayApply for the Teacher Training
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