About us
Authentic Relating DC is a group for people to build authentic connections and attend Authentic Relating, Circling, and other community events in DC, MD, & VA! Join us if you're craving true connection, realness, self-discovery, and fun! Together, we'll skip the small talk and play games to build authentic relationships and community.
- What are Circling and Authentic Relating Games? ([https://www.authrev.com/ar-games/)](https://www.authrev.com/ar-games/))
Circling and Authentic Relating Games are practices that get you into connection with other people very fast, gently and in a non-threatening way. They are different modalities which share the same goals: human connection, healing and transformation, friendship and fun, and/or having plain-old interesting conversations with cool people in your community. Circling and Authentic Relating is also a rapidly-growing movement for creating a better society and it has penetration in 60+ cities world-wide.
Upcoming events
4
- $40.00
Giving and Receiving Platonic Touch
Iglesia Misionera, 917 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20850, Rockville, MD, US# Giving and Receiving Platonic Touch
**** Register and pay $40 at https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/touch ****
## Event Details
Physical touch is essential for wellbeing and human connection, but many of us go for long periods without it. Research shows that nurturing touch in adults reduces pain perception, lowers blood pressure, improves sleep quality, and strengthens immune function.
In this participatory workshop, we will explore connection through conversation, eye contact, and platonic touch through a series of activities that foster trust and connection. Using Betty Martin's theory of the wheel of consent, we will learn to give and receive platonic touch while being in tune with our authentic needs and desires. Activities are designed to build a sense of psychological safety within the group, and gradually introduce nurturing platonic touch to the extent that feels comfortable.
All activities are optional and you may participate as much or as little as you want, based on your comfort level. You are not required to touch or be touched by anyone. We will practice stating boundaries and desires. If you need to pause, modify, or exit any activity--you're encouraged to do what feels comfortable for you. Adults of every age, gender, orientation, race, belief system, and body type are welcome to attend, provided that you are willing and able to remain sober, lucid, and respectful for the duration of our time together.
Tentative Agenda
5 min: Partnered conversation to land
10 min: Loving kindness meditation
20 min: Introduction and opening shares
20 min: Authentic relating conversations
20 min: Wheel of consent
10 min: Break
20 min: Practice saying no and boundaries
20 min: Practice asking for what we want
20 min: Giving and receiving platonic touch
20 min: Cuddle pile### Additional Info
Event will be held at a chapel in Rockville. Address will be provided after registration.
Advanced registration required at least 24 hours before the event. No walk ins.
NO REFUNDS unless request is made more than 2 weeks in advance.
Everyone who attends is invited to join a WhatsApp group to stay in touch and connect with others one-on-one.
This event is not exclusively for singles! All ages, genders, sexualities, abilities, identities, etc. welcome!
If you would like to participate, please arrive early (between 1:30 and 2) so we can start on time. Late arrivals jeopardize the emotional safety and flow of the event.### Testimonials
“I was a bit nervous going into the event, but any concerns soon dissipated with Clara’s calm presence and carefully planned agenda. I’ve already started discussing the Wheel of Consent with others, and the event had me thinking more specifically about how I can voice my wants, needs, and preferences in many areas of my life. I would highly recommend trying out this event even if you’re on the fence about it. The support, safety, and lasting connections that I make at Clara’s events always leave me signing up for more afterwards. Those of us living in the DMV area are lucky to have Clara as a force for good in our local communities.” - Michaela
## About the Facilitator
Clara Fang, Ph.D. bio.site/cfang
To learn more about my approach to creating inclusive social gatherings, please read https://greentaraconsulting.com/blog/authentic-relating-update
Subscribe to the email list to receive notification of future events and connect with other members.
**** Register and pay $40 at https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/touch ****
1 attendee - $40.00
Healing with Internal Family Systems
Iglesia Misionera, 917 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20850, Rockville, MD, US$40-80 sliding scale
Register at
https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/ifs
No Walk-InsInternal Family Systems (IFS) is a model of psychotherapy built on the idea that we are made of distinct sub-personalities, or "parts," each with its own feelings, beliefs, and role in your inner world. Some of them carry old wounds. Some keep us functioning. None of them are the enemy — and every one of them is trying, in its own way, to take care of you.
This workshop is an introduction to healing through IFS. Through gentle guided internal exercises, we'll take you through a process of listening to the parts of you that have been neglected or wounded, and finding support and integration. You can choose to share about your experiences or keep them private. No one is asked to share more than they want to.### Agenda
2:00 Partnered conversation to land
2:10 Meditation
2:20 Group introductions
2:30 Introduction to Internal Family Systems
2:45 Somatic bridge exercise
3:30 Break
3:40 Internal Family Systems exercise
4:30 Break
4:40 Closing circleThe heart of this workshop is the exercises. We will practice exploring our internal states and naming feelings and sensations, followed by identifying other times in your life where you've felt this way. You choose what to bring; we'll guide you toward something workable rather than overwhelming.
After a break, we move into a longer IFS process. You'll identify a part of you that's carrying a wound and ask it what it wants your whole self to know. What information would help this part today? What has it been trying to communicate that hasn't yet been heard? How might that part be tended to now, in the ways it wasn't at the time? You'll meet it with a more resourced part of yourself, accompany it somewhere it feels safe, and close with a letting-go ceremony. There's time afterward to share how it landed, if you'd like to.
The exercises will be bookended by authentic relating that will help participants get to know each other and create a safe space.
### Who this is for
Anyone looking to understand themselves better and grow. You don't have to have trauma or current grief. You don't need a background in IFS, therapy, meditation, or somatic work — this is designed as a first door in. If you've done inner work before, this is an opportunity to deepen your practice.
This is a peer healing circle, not therapy or a substitute for clinical care. Information about ongoing coaching and therapy options will be shared at the end.### What to bring
Comfortable clothes you can move and sit on the floor in, water, and something to write with. Come as you are.
### Facilitators
Ethan Bliss, Ph.D — Dr. Bliss is a licensed psychologist with more than two decades of experience in a wide range of therapeutic approaches. He has extensive experience working with people with anxiety, depression, trauma, autism, bipolar disorder, and obsessive compulsive issues. He is the director of Center for Integrative Healthcare in Frederick, Maryland. He holds a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Miami and an M.A. in Community Counseling from St. Mary's University.
Clara Fang, Ph.D — Dr. Clara Fang is a wellness facilitator and social justice advocate who brings people together to connect more deeply in community. She is an experienced facilitator of authentic relating, ecstatic dance, meditation, and healing gatherings. She is the founder of Green Tara Consulting, which helps groups build equity, inclusion, and belonging through training, advocacy, and stragic planning. She holds a PhD in environmental studies from Antioch University and Master of Environmental Management from Yale.
$40-80 sliding scale
Register at
https://events.ticketleap.com/events/greentara/ifs
No Walk-Ins1 attendee - $30.00
Authentic Relating Men's Circle
Iglesia Misionera, 917 Veirs Mill Rd., Rockville, MD 20850, Rockville, MD, USPlease register $30 at https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/greentara/mens-circle
Authentic Relating Men's Circle is an opportunity for men to be their authentic selves in a confidential, nonjudgemental, and supportive environment. In our society, it is often be hard for men to express their emotions and tell their stories. Men's Circle supports intentional relating for the purpose of personal growth and collective transformation. By practicing self-awareness, empathy, and compassion, we empower each other to bring these qualities to our relationships, families, workplaces, and society as a whole. Join us in being open hearted as we explore our joys, challenges, and longings as men.
What Is Authentic Relating?
Authentic is being real, honest, revealed, and transparent, allowing others to see, hear, and know our inner world. Relating is welcoming the other person's authentic self and weaving their reality and experience with our own. Authenticity and vulnerability are possible in an environment absent of judgement where we are confident that we will be received with openness, empathy, and compassion. Authentic Relating is about intentionally creating a space of equity, belonging, and inclusion.
In a world where we often wear a mask, presenting some aspects of ourselves and hiding others in order to be accepted, Authentic Relating invites us to show up as we are. All parts, dimensions, emotions, and aspects that make us human are welcome in this practice. When we share from our authentic selves, we create the opportunity for genuine connections and self-understanding. The result is often moving and therapeutic.OTHER DETAILS
This event is open to men identifying individuals. All ages (18+), abilities, and sexual orientations welcome!
Snacks will be provided and feel free to bring your own.
Please arrive early so that we can start on time. Late arrivals jeopardize the emotional safety and flow of the event.
While this event is therapeautic it is not a replacement for individual therapy. If you have serious mental health issues please consult a professional.TESTIMONIALS
"Most social events are like fast food--stimulating but insubstantial. Authentic Relating feels like a carefully crafted and nutritious meal, made with love for you."
"Clara is a warm and engaging facilitator who makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable to be their authentic selves."### ABOUT THE ORGANIZER
Clara Fang PhD bio.site/cfang
To learn more about my approach to creating inclusive social gatherings, please read Creating Equitable and Inclusive Social Gatherings https://greentaraconsulting.com/blog/authentic-relating-updatePlease register at https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/greentara/mens-circle
1 attendee - $35.00
Authentic Relating: A Journey into Heartfelt Connection
Rockville, MD, US** Please go to TicketLeap to complete your registration $35***
Connecting deeply with others and bonding in community is key to happiness and one of the greatest goods life has to ofter. In a world of happy hours, online dating, and social media scrolling, that has become increasingly difficult to find. Authentic Relating is for those who want to get beyond small talk and connect more deeply with others in a substance-free, inclusive, and supportive environment.
Most social events throw a bunch of strangers into a room to fend for themselves, which disadvantages people who have social anxiety and with marginalized identities. Authentic Relating intentionally disrupts this dynamic with strategies that facilitate equity and inclusion.
In a world where we often wear a mask, presenting some aspects of ourselves and hiding others in order to be accepted, Authentic Relating invites us to show up as we are. All parts, dimensions, emotions, and aspects that make us human are welcome in this practice. When we share from our authentic selves, we create the opportunity for genuine connections and self-understanding. The result is often moving and therapeutic.### What Is Authentic Relating?
Authentic is being real, honest, revealed, and transparent, allowing others to see, hear, and know our inner world. Relating is welcoming the other person's authentic self and weaving their reality and experience with our own. Authenticity and vulnerability are possible in an environment absent of judgement where we are received with openness, empathy, and compassion. It is also a journey, one where we take the time to get to know each other and feel comfortable enough to reveal ourselves (no one is forced to be vulnerable or share anything they are uncomfortable sharing). Authentic Relating is about creating a space where that journey can happen in a spirit of delight and discovery.
At a facilitated Authentic Relating gathering, one can have a meaningful interaction with every person, practice deep listening and sharing, and feel a sense of belonging. Guided activities encourage participants to be playful, curious, empathetic, thoughtful, and vulnerable. Facilitation and prepared questions help people practice active listening and self-reflection. Everyone has an equal amount of time to talk, listen, and be heard, and no one can dominate the conversation or be a wallflower.
### Principles and Practices for Authentic Relating
Mindfulness: Slowing down, being present and aware of our inner state and surroundings.
Empathy: Being aware of and releasing judgement, employing empathy, curiosity, openness, and recognition of multiple perspectives.
Authenticity: Vulnerability, honesty, voicing our truth, self-awareness.
Centering the other: No interrupting, giving advice, fixing, or telling your own story. Ask for permission to share your opinion, advice, your own story, and questions.
Validating: acknowledging, appreciating, reflecting, empathizing, and presencing.
Structure: Timed interactions where people take turns sharing, listening, and reflecting. Conversations range from 5 to 10 minutes.
Equity: Conversation partners are assigned randomly in order to avoid choosing partners based on personal preference. Group conversations typically involve going in order around a circle rather than popcorn style.
Prepared questions: Directs conversation towards meaningful topics and deeper reflection.### Sample Agenda
5 min: Partnered conversation to land
5 min: Loving kindness meditation
10 min: Introduction to authentic relating
10 min: Opening shares
10 min: Movement activity
45 min: Facilitated conversations
10 min: Break
45 min: Facilitated conversations
15 min: Closing circle### Sample Conversation Prompts
What are you passionate about?
What do you struggle with?
What are you most anxious or fearful about?
What gives you hope?
What is a difficulty or challenge that you’re struggling with?
What is something that you long for that you don’t have?
What do you need?### Additional Info
Advanced registration required. No walk ins.
NO REFUNDS unless the event is cancelled.
Everyone who attends is invited to join a WhatsApp group to stay in touch and connect with others one-on-one.
This event is not exclusively for singles! All ages, genders, sexualities, abilities, identities, etc. welcome!
The event is capped at 20 and will be cancelled if there are fewer than 6. This helps us create an intimate atmosphere and get to know everyone in the group.
If you would like to participate, please arrive early so we can start on time. Late arrivals jeopardize the emotional safety and flow of the event.### Videos to Learn More
2 minute video
15 minute video### Testimonials
"I live in an intentional community where I am friends with all the residents and we never lock our doors, but even here, we don't reach the depth of connection that I experience at Authentic Relating in 3 hours. This is a heart filled, nourishing practice for everyone who desires genuine connection and community."
"Thank you so much for organizing the event today. I was extremely apprehensive about the experience but you created a safe, joyful, and meaningful event. Your passionate, kind, and gentle spirit helped to create a beautiful and loving environment. I also gained skills that will help me deepen my relationships and connect with more people. I was really pleasantly surprised and moved by the experience."
"I was very surprised with how much I both needed and enjoyed the workshop. As someone who is pretty good with people, I have found that finding friends has been difficult since moving to the DMV for school. I never thought of attending a workshop made specifically for helping people meet new friends would be something I needed, let alone something I would enjoy. The facilitator was kind yet direct, and led the time well, and the activities we fun and varied. Most importantly, real connection was generated, and while obviously follow up is our responsibility, being able to attend a space that helped get us past the meeting phase was worth its weight in gold. I would happily attend again."
"This was amazing! I'm definitely coming back and inviting my friends next time!"
“I will never experience social gatherings the same way again!”
"Most social events are like fast food--stimulating but insubstantial. Authentic Relating feels more like a carefully crafted and nutritious meal, made with love for you."
"I went to this event last month and enjoyed it so much ❤️ I formed a lot of bonds in a short amount of time. Time well spent. Highly recommend it!"
"Authentic Relating is life changing!"
"Clara is a warm and engaging facilitator who makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable to be their authentic selves."
## About the Facilitator
Clara Fang, Ph.D. is the founder of Green Tara Consulting, a consulting firm that specializes in diversity, equity, and belonging. She has been working at the intersection of climate advocacy and racial justice for twenty years. She is an experienced facilitator of authentic relating, meditation, and ecstatic dance. She lives in Germantown, MD. bio.site/cfang
To learn more about my approach to creating inclusive social gatherings, please read https://greentaraconsulting.com/blog/authentic-relating-update
Subscribe to the email list to receive notification of future events and connect with other members.
** Please go to TicketLeap to complete your registration $35***
1 attendee
Past events
188
