Every ChiBall colour has a story. In the ChiBall Method, each of the five elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is linked to a season, a phase of energy and a movement discipline – and to two ChiBall colours, each with its own ChiAroma.
Within each element there is a lighter yin colour and a deeper yang colour. Yin and yang are relative: Black is yang to Blue, even though Water itself is a yin element. The five deeper yang colours trace the cycle of the seasons – the five phases of energy that every ChiBall class moves through.
Spring · Wood · Rising yang
Spring is a time of growth, planning and new beginnings. In TCM, Wood is linked with flexibility – bending without breaking. In class, this is the phase of Tai Chi–Qi Gong: slow and mindful, waking up the body and the breath.
- Green with Geranium (yang) – balance, harmony and growth. A soft, rosy floral aroma.
- Lime Green with Mint (yin) – renewal, optimism and alertness. A fresh, cooling aroma.
Summer · Fire · Radiant yang
Summer is the season of warmth, joy and connection. In class, this is the phase of ChiBall Dance and Yoga: energetic and vibrant, with flowing, heart-opening movement.
- Red with Cinnamon (yang) – energy, passion and warmth. A warm, spicy aroma.
- Pink with Rose (yin) – compassion, love and kindness. The Pink ChiBall was inspired by Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
Late Summer · Earth · Descending yang
Late Summer is the harvest – a time of nourishment and feeling grounded. In class, this is the phase of Pilates: centred and focused, building core strength, stability and posture.
- Orange with Sweet Orange (yang) – optimism, gratitude and spontaneity. A bright, citrus aroma.
- Yellow with Lemongrass (yin) – self-worth, trust and focus. A sharp, fresh aroma.
Autumn · Metal · Rising yin
Autumn is the season of gathering in and letting go. In class, this is the phase of ChiBall Release: gentle, playful awareness work that helps you slow down.
- Purple with Lavender (yang) – peace, calm and inner poise. A soft, herbal floral aroma.
- Silver with Eucalyptus (yin) – clarity, balance and reflection. A clean, clearing aroma.
Winter · Water · Condensed yin
Winter is the season of rest, stillness and reflection. In class, this is the phase of breathing, relaxation and meditation – stillness and integration, the phase so often left out of western exercise.
- Black with Aniseed (yang) – patience, steadiness and perspective. A sweet, liquorice-like aroma.
- Blue with Juniper Berry (yin) – self-expression, courage and reflection. A fresh, woody aroma.
Choosing your colour
Many people simply choose the colour and aroma they are drawn to on the day. If you’d like a little help, take our three-question quiz, or browse the ChiBalls and ChiAromas. To explore each season in depth, see our Seasonal Wellness Courses.
ChiAromas are made with natural essential oils and are designed to be enjoyed as part of your practice. Avoid contact with eyes, and if you are pregnant or have a health condition, please check with your health professional before use.
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