Practice Authentic Relating- Circling

Logistics of Evening: We will all start in an opening circle together where we connect with each other. We will then enter a timed container of 45-60mins depending on the type of Authentic Relating we are practicing. If there are enough participants, this will be done in separate groups. We will close in a big group together again at the end and share experiences or takeaways from the circles.

You do not need to bring anything besides an open heart and a willingness to try something new.

If you would like a breakdown of the different styles we will practice together, see the descriptions below.

THE PRACTICES:
Circling is a relational practice that fosters deep presence between people through shared attention, curiosity, and honest expression. It involves slowing down and exploring what is happening in the moment, both internally and between individuals, without trying to fix or change anything.
Rather than focusing on ideas or stories, Circling emphasizes what it is like to be with each other right now. It often uses real-time feedback and reflection to deepen connection. It is a form of interpersonal meditation that reveals unconscious patterns, builds empathy, and invites profound human connection.

Intentions of Circling:

### 1. Commit to Being with the Other Person in Their World

Stay deeply curious about what it's like to be them, rather than projecting your own assumptions or advice. This means practicing empathy and presence while setting aside the need to analyze, fix, or steer the conversation.

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### 2. Honor Your Own Experience

While being with another, remain attuned to your own emotions, sensations, and thoughts. Speak from your own lived experience using "I" statements. Your truth is part of the relational field.

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### 3. Stay with the Here and Now

Focus on what is arising in the moment, rather than talking about the past or abstract ideas. Circling is about real-time awareness: what you are feeling, noticing, or sensing right now in connection with others.

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### 4. Own Your Impact

Acknowledge how your words and presence affect the other person and the group. Be open to feedback and willing to repair disconnection when it happens, while staying grounded in your own experience.

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a communication framework developed by Marshall Rosenberg that helps people speak and listen with empathy, clarity, and honesty. It focuses on understanding and expressing needs without blame, judgment, or criticism.
The process has four parts:

1. Observation – stating what you notice without evaluation
2. Feelings – naming the emotions you're experiencing
3. Needs – identifying the core human needs behind those feelings
4. Requests – making clear, doable, respectful requests to meet those needs

NVC supports deeper connection by encouraging compassionate self-expression and empathic listening.