Authentic Relating | The Stories We Make Up About Each Other

The Stories We Make Up About Each Other
Assumptions, Curiosity & What Happens Between Us

We do it constantly.
Someone takes longer than usual to reply.
A friend seems distant.
A stranger gives us a certain look.
Someone says something differently than we expected.
And before we really know what happened, our minds start filling in the blanks.
- They’re annoyed with me.
- They don’t care.
- I made things awkward.
- They probably think I’m...
Sometimes our stories are right. Sometimes they’re completely wrong. Either way, they can shape how we relate before we ever get curious about what’s actually happening.

In this Human Connection Lab, we’ll explore the space between what happened, what we interpreted, and what we actually know.
Through Authentic Relating-inspired exercises, conversation, play, creative reflection, and a short sound exploration, we’ll experiment with noticing assumptions as they arise and what becomes possible when we replace certainty with curiosity.

We may explore questions like:
- What stories do I automatically create about other people?
- How quickly do I turn an interpretation into a fact?
- What happens when I actually check my assumptions?
- What do people tend to misunderstand about me?
- What changes in a relationship when curiosity enters before judgment?

There will be moments of connection in pairs and as a group, playful experimentation, personal reflection, and a brief sound-based experience exploring how we listen and respond when meaning is not immediately obvious.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026
7:00–10:00 PM
Doors open at 6:45 PM. Doors close at 7:10 PM.
theDEZrT — Little Burgundy
Near Georges-Vanier & Lionel-Groulx Metro
Apartment number shared privately with confirmed participants before the event.
Limited to 8 participants to preserve depth, safety and intimacy.

What to Expect
Each session evolves with the group and may include:
- Guided grounding and breathwork
- Playful relational icebreakers
- Paired Authentic Relating Games
- Reflective or creative exercises
- A sound exploration
- Circling and group sharing

No previous experience with Authentic Relating, Circling or breathwork is necessary.
Come as you are. Participate at your own pace.

What to Bring
- Comfortable clothing
- A water bottle
- Curiosity
- A willingness to participate at your own pace

Contribution
New to Human Connection Lab? Your first session is free.
Returning participants: $14
We want these gatherings to remain accessible while also honouring the time, preparation and care that go into creating them.
If finances are genuinely preventing you from attending, reach out privately.
Connection should not depend on having everything figured out, financially or otherwise.

Registering through Meetup
1. RSVP “Going” to reserve your place.
2. Returning participants can send the $14 contribution by e-transfer to thedezrt111@gmail.com
Security Question: Human Connection Lab
Answer: theDEZrT
Cash or e-transfer after the session is also welcome.

Human Connection Lab is not therapy. It is an experiential space for practicing connection, curiosity, creativity and more honest ways of relating.