Women Talking

Gathering together in circles is a powerful tool to support connection, understanding, and solidarity – especially in divisive times. Whether it’s politics, parenting, or cultural issues, how do we engage with others productively and in integrity with our own values on contentious issues? How can we be heard well and listen well, and stay present through the process?

 This workshop explores circles as a method for building relationships and provides guidance for staying grounded and regulated throughout the process. You’ll learn about both self and co-regulation, and how to implement a clear circle structure. These skills open us up to be in genuine relationships with a broader community.  

This is an opportunity to deepen the self-awareness and tools that create unifying spaces focused on our shared humanity. These spaces can heal, increase compassion, and freshen our perspectives. You will lean into your ability to be both powerful and vulnerable in an intentional circle format, and practice guiding others doing the same. This is mental, spiritual and community health support at its most grassroots level.  

This workshop coincides with the “women only “ weekend at Breitenbush.

A little bit about circles: 

 Circles are a simple, ancient social technology that is beautifully suited to an increasingly polarized world. By taking turns to talk within an intentional structure, we reduce reactivity and increase space for self-regulation and empathy. This age-old format can support the exploration of any theme, whatever your community needs; grief and loss, parenting in the age of technology, identities, aging etc. Circle work is based on the understanding that you are the expert in your own experience and needs. Within that framework it is useful to have a guide, not a specialist or professional. 

A little bit about regulation:

Holding the workshop at Breitenbush is intentional. We’ll take advantage of all Breitenbush’s built-in regulatory resources: soaking, good sleep, nature, three healthy meals a day, and being unplugged.  We’ll keep a clear, easy, spacious container during our time together, allowing plenty of time for integration. We’ll incorporate mindfulness and body awareness as well as cognitive learning, and offer a balance of solo and community time.

In this workshop you will:

• Learn the “recipe” for circle structure that connects and co-regulates
• Participate in multiple circles to gain familiarity and experience with circle dynamics
• Learn about and engage in practices for nervous system regulation
• Gain confidence in your unique style of holding a strong circle container
• Fill your cup, return home rejuvenated and inspired 

This is a tangible, grounded and accessible workshop that will leave you feeling equipped to start circles in your own communities. 

This workshop will start at 7pm on Thursday and end at noon on Sunday.

This workshop is for people who identify as women or non-binary folks who feel comfortable in women centered spaces.

Quote from a 2024 participant:

“Since being back home I took the leap in my monthly “Ladies night” and evolved it into an official Women’s Circle. Each month we have a different theme, but hold the same structure that I learned with you both. The women in this circle community are incredible! They bring so much wisdom and vulnerability and it has all become possible through your teachings. They express so much gratitude each month to have this space carved out. And everyone has already become so protective over what we are creating and building. I see even more how powerful circles are and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me have the courage to take this leap of faith.”  -AB

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! Applications HERE