Something ends. Something else begins. But in between, there is a Middle or Neutral Zone that can last days, weeks or years. Sometimes we feel disconnected from circumstances of our past as we reorient to “what’s next.” ITP practitioner Edith Johnston describes her journey in the Middle Zone after retirement.

Over the course of many decades, ITP practitioner Nathan Bolls experienced many “new beginnings.” His reflections on how one thing led to another tell a fascinating story about transitions.

As ITP practitioners, transformation is often on our minds. We tune in to, even set our intentions for, change. With change comes transition, which might be defined as “how we respond to change.” ITPI Mastery Teacher Kim Kristenson-Lee offers a simplified explanation of the three stages of transition: the ending, messy middle (neutral zone) and beginning.

In a world that rarely slows down, there’s a simple yet powerful practice that invites us to reconnect with nature, with our inner selves and with the present moment. Earthing (or grounding) is more than just walking barefoot on grass; it’s a way to tap into the earth’s energy, living a more balanced, purposeful and full-of-wonder experience.

Anyone who has done the ITP Kata knows the importance of connecting to the ground. It offers focus and stability before we proceed with our practice and our day. ITPI Mastery Teacher Pam Kramer shares the gifts of grounding in her life.

We can count on life bringing changes and challenges. ITP practitioner Autumn Wagner describes how ITP, and specifically its many forms of community, have brought grounding power to her life.

ITP’s nine Core Practice Intentions form the structure of ITP and serve as the roadmap for the journey of transformation of body, mind, heart and soul. They provide constant encouragement to ground us in our daily life and can carry us through difficult times when our energy may waver.

The first two ITP Core Practice Intentions focus on autonomy and community – two sides of one coin. While ITP stresses the importance of individuality and free choice, there is grounding power in the support of the ITP community.

Go outside, get your feet on the ground and experience the practice of earthing, or grounding. ITPI Mastery Teacher Roger Marsh talks about the awesome benefits of connecting to the earth.

As each of us is on our personal journey, we have a shared responsibility to uplift the world around us. As ITPI encourages us toward these goals, we are connecting with partner organizations who have the same goals. These include Esalen, the Center for Purposeful Leadership, Evolutionary Sport and the Holomovement. ITP practitioner and Holomovement steward Jill Robinson talks about the ITPI partnership with the Holomovement.

Learn more about Kimberly Kristenson-Lee and the experience and insight she's gained as a long-time ITP practitioner and Mastery Teacher.