What is a women’s circle?
and why you’ll definitely want to join one after reading this!
For as long as human’s have been on this earth women have gathered. In daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning, in childbirth, in rights of passage such as menarche (first period) and menopause. They’ve gathering in ritual and ceremony to celebrate, to grieve, to acknowledge. There is such power when we come together in mindful and intentional ceremony and ritual to honour each other & community.
A women's circle is a gathering of women who come together to connect, support, and empower one another. It is a safe and sacred space where women can share their experiences, wisdom, and challenges in a non-judgmental environment. The circle is typically facilitated by a leader or facilitator who ensures that everyone has an opportunity to speak and be heard.
Women's circles can take various forms and structures, but they often involve sitting in a circle, which symbolizes equality, inclusivity, and unity. The circle can be held in a physical location such as a community center, private home, or outdoor space. In recent times, women's circles have also formed online, allowing women from different geographical locations to connect virtually.
The purpose of a women's circle is to create a supportive community where women can authentically express themselves, be seen and heard, and receive support from others who may have similar experiences or perspectives. The circle provides a space for women to share their stories, emotions, and challenges, as well as celebrate their successes and strengths.
Women's circles often incorporate various activities, rituals, and practices to enhance the experience and promote personal growth. These may include guided meditations, journaling, art, movement, sharing circles, guided discussions, and group exercises focused on self-care, empowerment, or personal development.
The intention behind a women's circle is to foster connection, healing, personal transformation, and empowerment. It is a space where women can find inspiration, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Women's circles can be particularly powerful in addressing issues specific to women's experiences, such as gender equality, body image, relationships, motherhood, self-worth, and societal expectations.
By participating in a women's circle, women can build supportive relationships, gain insights and wisdom from others, explore their authentic selves, and tap into their inner strength and resilience. The circle format allows for deep listening, empathy, and the collective sharing of knowledge and experiences, creating a transformative and empowering space for women.
I generally run women’s circles each month with specific themes and on occasion weaving in my love of the healing power of herbs through practical activities. Often my circles are open month-to-month, meaning that anyone can join. Occasionally I release a closed circle which involves the same group signing up and circling with each other for a few months in a row. Both have advantages - an open circle allows for fluctuating schedules and just joining the months that don’t clash with other commitments. A closed circle enables deeper bonds to develop with the members of the group, an opportunity to build upon a theme as we progress through the each month and I generally find a members of a closed circle have a greater sense of comfort knowing who will be in the circle each month.
Regardless of the structure, a circle will always be set with the intention of equality, non-judgement and support. All I ask is you come with an open heart and a willingness to lean into being vulnerable and authentic.