Opening to Qi
Spring Yuan Qigong Retreat
Join us for a weekend of growth, learning & community in the beautiful Sierra Foothills of northern California.
We're excited to invite you to our upcoming two-day Ren Xue Yuan Qigong retreat, designed for both newcomers and returning practitioners (all levels welcome). This immersive experience will provide you with the opportunity to learn powerful qigong methods in a supportive community environment.
May 24 -25, 2025
Grass Valley, California
What is Yuan Qigong?
Yuan Qigong is part of a larger system called Ren Xue, developed by Yuan Tze, which is a comprehensive approach to wellbeing based on ancient wisdom. This system is a complete path for personal growth and wisdom, enabling one to enjoy a life full of harmony, happiness, and wellbeing.
Program Details
Dates: May 24-25
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM both days
Location: Grass Valley, CA
Two Learning Groups
New Students: FULL
Method 1: Gathering Qi | Tian Yuan - Connect with the vital energy of the universe to increase mobility, cultivate calm, and reduce stress
Method 2: Nourishing Q:i | Di Yuan - Cultivate and strengthen your internal energy to improve posture, enhance mental clarity, and boost daily energy levels
Returning Students:
Method 3: Ren Yuan - Moving Qi Advance your qigong journey with techniques that open energy channels, strengthen immunity, and support your body's natural healing abilities
Ren Yuan works on Qi deep into the tendons, bones, organs and Qi channels (meridians) - it’s like being your own acupuncturists!
What Our Students Say:
“I am so surprised how these practices are extraordinarily simple and yet so powerful. In just one day I already feel more clear energy in my body. I have a sense of a big RESET and a more authentic, grounded presence."
- Brady S., Los ALtos, CA.”
Your Qi Studio has such a great vibe bringing peace, calmness, joy and relaxation the minute I stepped in. You both have a beautiful style of teaching that brings such harmony and connection to the group. You made learning the movements so simple, and I am excited to continue my daily practice. Thank you!”
- Donna A., Nevada City, CA
“After yesterdays’ class I felt calm, open brightness. A sense of peace and groundedness.” - Magie C., Penn Valley, CA
Daily Schedule
Each day will feature focused practice sessions in two separate groups based on experience level. We'll come together during breaks and lunch for community building activities, allowing everyone to connect and share experiences.
Morning Session: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lunch & Community Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Afternoon Session: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Optional Community Dinner 5:30-7:30
Extend your retreat experience with optional community dinners on Saturday evening. Share a meal and connect more deeply with fellow practitioners in a relaxed setting.
Registration
Early Bird:
$222 until May 2, 2025
Regular Cost: $ 275
Meal Add-Ons Available:
Enhance your retreat experience with optional organic meal packages (lunches and Saturday dinner).
Meet the Team
Lisa Lewis-Cogswell and Christapher Cogswell are dedicated Ren Xue teachers (certified at Level 1 & 2) who have combined their passion for personal growth with their commitment to creating a more loving, joyful, and healthy world. With their complementary skills and shared vision, they enjoy serving individuals and communities.
For this retreat, we are excited to co-create and collaborate with another Ren Xue teacher, bringing together a mix of wisdom, experience and perspectives to enrich your learning experience.
Roya Arasteh's journey with embodiment and healing led her to Ren Xue in 2012. She is presently a Level 6 certified teacher and practitioner through Ren Xue International. She gives great thanks to the Ren Xue teachings, Yuan Tze, and Yuan Qigong. Through consistent practice of the methods, and applying the teachings, she experienced profound positive changes on the physical (end to chronic pain from endometriosis and gastro-intestinal issues), and the emotional (end of chronic depression and anxiety). Roya finds great joy in sharing Ren Xue teachings and Yuan Qigong to all who are interested.
Roya teaches in Berkeley, online, at wellness retreats and on the Mendocino Coast. Contact her at royalouisa@gmail.com for more info.
Music & Creative Integration
Maja Apolonia Rode is a creativity mentor, spiritual innovator, and devoted lover of life on earth. Through her music, poety and caring facilitation, Maja helps individuals and groups find deep resonance and integrate their personal and collective wisdom. Her larger calling is to advance a human society that cultivates well-being for all.
"I feel deeply relaxed and also alert at the same time. I am very clear and rested, eager to learn more. Thank you for creating the space and field for us.” - Laurie B., Nevada City, CA
“I felt an overwhelming sense of peace! I spend a lot of time in my sympathetic nervous system and I feel like it shifted me into my parasympathetic system and I’m still feeling the effects after just one day of learning it.” - Carolyn B. Nevada City, CA
More Student Love :-)
Where to Stay…
For those traveling in from out of town, we have some camping spots available (on site) and we'll provide a list of our favorite local accommodations, including nearby glamping pods.
Photo Gallery below of the location for retreat:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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The closest airports are Sacramento (SMF) and Reno (RNO). Both are a 1- 1.5-hour drive from the retreat location.
Alternatively, you can fly into San Francisco (SFO) and either take a train or rent a car for the 3-hour journey.
We're happy to help coordinate carpooling among participants. If you'd like assistance with transportation, please reach out to us with your travel details, and we'll do our best to connect you with others.
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This will be a smaller retreat with the goal being around 12-14 people.
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What to Bring:
Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (we'll spend time outdoors)
Comfortable clothing for indoor activities
Warm socks or slippers for indoor spaces
Journal
Hat for sun protection
Walking shoes
Water bottle
May weather here is warm and lovely. Be prepared for outdoor activities and cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.
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Yes, this retreat is ideal for beginners! It's designed as a perfect inspiration for those new Ren Xue and Yuan Qigong while also offering a renewal for experienced practitioners.
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We can accomodate many dietary restritions (gluten free, vegatarian and vegan) upon request.
We use organic, high qualitiy local foods as much as possible and we grow a lot of our own food.
Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions by emailing lisa@heartspacerising.com
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No specific physical requirements are needed to participate. Ren Xue and Yuan Qigong practices are adaptable to various physical abilities. Our facilitators will guide you to perform the practices in a way that suits your individual needs and comfort level. Whether you prefer to stand, sit, or even lie down, you can fully engage in and benefit from all activities. We welcome participants of all physical abilities and will ensure everyone can participate meaningfully in their own way.
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We offer full refunds for cancellations made before May 20th. After this date, we cannot offer refunds due to the limited number of spots and the intensive nature of this program. Your registration secures your place, which we cannot offer to others once we've passed this deadline.
If you're unsure whether this program is the right fit for you, we encourage you to book a call with Lisa before registering. She'll be happy to discuss the program in detail, explore your goals, and help ensure you're making the best decision for your personal growth journey.
We're committed to your success and want to make sure this program aligns with your needs and expectations before you commit.
