Above: View from Annette Sessions's house in Rochester, NY

Winter

with the

Worsley Institute

A still of Professor JR Worsley lecturing in a suit and tie

Above: Video of JR Worsley describing the Water Element

Welcome to the Worsley Institute Seasonal Newsletter

In this issue:

Video: JR Worsley describing the Water Element
Ask Judy: Water Element within Us
Worsley Community News: Teacher Training (Basic)^SM
The WiSE^SM Way: Reindeers and Birds
Upcoming Trainings and Events

Ask Judy

The Water Element

Q: How does the Water Element manifest within us?

A: The Water Element represents all that is fluid, both in substance and in quality. It includes much more than a single source or form of fluidity.

Within us, the Water Element relates to anything that flows, including various physical fluids such as blood, tears, saliva, digestive juices, sexual and hormonal secretions, and synovial fluid that lubricates our joints. On another level, Water is also connected to the flow and movement of our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It allows for the appropriate ebb and flow of these processes, bringing the right balance and rhythm to our mental and emotional state.

It’s worth remembering that no single function or attribute is tied to just one element. However, the Water Element plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of movement—whether physical, mental, or spiritual. And of course, the movement of Spirit within us is the ebb and flow of life itself. This flow reflects the constant motion and rhythm that keeps life in harmony.

Ultimately, the Water Element is not simply a substance but a dynamic quality that sustains the movement and flow essential to our being.

Do you have a question for Judy? We would love to hear from you: president@worsleyinstitute.com.

Worsley Community News

Above: Participants and Teaching Team at Teacher Training (Basic)

Worsley Institute Teacher Training (Basic)^SM

A Transformative Gathering in Miami

Worsley Institute’s Teacher Training is a profound experience that heightens knowledge, precision, and clarity, strengthens the connections within the Worsley Classical Five-Element Acupuncture (WCF-EA)™ community, and offers the only JR Worsley authorized Teacher Training (TT)^SM program. It complements other WI trainings, such as the Master Apprentice Program (MAP)^SM and Worsley Institute Training (WIT)^SM, by fostering a deeper relationship with the material through the act of teaching.

This past November, 24 participants from across the globe—including Israel, Canada, the United States, Ireland, France, Norway, and England—came together in Miami, FL, for the Worsley Institute TT (Basic). This remarkable event provided a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of Worsley Classical Five-Element Acupuncture (WCF-EA) while honing their ability to present its foundational teachings with authenticity.

During the training, participants delivered two presentations on key aspects of WCF-EA, integrating various presentation skills as they explored the material in depth. Breaks were filled with collaboration as participants practiced their presentations and exchanged insights with one another. Following each presentation, the teaching team offered invaluable feedback, reviewing theoretical concepts to enhance both clarity and comprehension.

We extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to the exceptional teaching team—Judy Worsley, Annette Sessions, Eric Hartmann, David Berkshire, and Janet Darby—whose dedication, expertise, and support made this transformative experience possible. Their guidance continues to inspire and enrich the WCF-EA tradition, ensuring its teachings remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.

Sampling of Feedback from TT (Basic):

“Clarity of the Worsley Lineage.”

“Far exceeded any expectations.”

“It has been a great training session, so professional, knowledgeable and loving team.”

“[My appreciation goes to] Judy and the teaching team for your patience and support in helping us go deeper. Judy, experiencing your clarity is priceless. Thank you.”

“Thank you all for your love and dedication to our wonderful medicine and the beautiful spirit you bring to our community. It was so inspiring and humbling for me to be with you all. Deep heartfelt gratitude to Judy and JR for making this all possible.”

For the many other events, scroll down to the bottom of this newsletter.

The WiSE^SM Way

Above: JR's and Judy's home, Church Hill Farm

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd: A Unique Conservation Effort

In the heart of Scotland’s Cairngorm Mountains, the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd represents a remarkable reintroduction and conservation story. Reindeer, once native to the British Isles, disappeared from Scotland over a thousand years ago. In 1952, Mikel Utsi, a Swedish herder, and his wife, Dr. Ethel Lindgren, reintroduced a small herd to the Cairngorms, where they have thrived. Today, around 150 reindeer roam freely over 10,000 acres, enhancing the Highland landscape.

The reindeer play a vital role in the ecosystem, naturally managing vegetation and promoting biodiversity. Their grazing patterns support a range of native plants and animals, benefiting the fragile subarctic environment. The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre carefully monitors the herd’s impact, balancing conservation with sustainable herd management. Through its work, the Centre also raises awareness of the environmental pressures facing cold habitats like the Cairngorms.

Visitors can experience the herd up close on guided hill trips offered year-round, learning about reindeer behavior and history in Scotland. Seasonal events, like December’s reindeer parades, engage the community and connect visitors with the herd’s story.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Adopt a Reindeer – Support the herd directly by “adopting” a reindeer and receiving updates on its life.

2. Visit the Centre – Admission fees contribute to the herd’s care and conservation work.

3. Volunteer – Locals and visitors can assist with daily herd management through volunteering.

This holiday season, consider supporting the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, helping to preserve this unique and resilient symbol of Scotland’s wild heritage. https://www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk/

Join the Big Garden Birdwatch: Help Protect the UK’s Birds

Each January, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) invites people to spend one hour observing and counting birds in gardens, parks, or green spaces. Your contributions help monitor bird populations and guide critical conservation efforts.

Why It Matters:

Over 40 years of Birdwatch data have identified species in decline, like the song thrush and greenfinch, which face threats from habitat loss, disease, and climate change. By participating, you help protect these and other birds across the UK.

How to Take Part:

Choose an Hour – Pick any hour during the Birdwatch weekend.
Count Birds – Record the highest number of each species seen at once.
Submit Results – Report findings online or by post.

No experience? No problem! The RSPB provides free bird identification guides to get you started.

The Birdwatch is more than data collection—it’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and support conservation. Join this meaningful event and make a difference. Learn more at rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

For bird lovers in North America, a similar program exists through Feederwatch.org and runs from November through April.