What to Know Before Your First Goddess Circle
Jennifer Aniston made news last year about a tradition she takes part in with her girlfriends for nearly every major life event — a spiritual ritual known as a goddess circle. But what is a goddess circle? CNBC says, “The intention of a circle is to have a nurturing, non-judgmental place where women can be vulnerable and support each other while also enjoying fun and spiritual rituals together.” The point of these gatherings is to talk about what’s on your heart in a safe space and setting intentions to let go of hurt. Below we’ve outlined a few other things you can probably expect from attending a goddess circle.
There will be tears.
Most time spent with our girlfriends is pretty light-hearted; we talk about relationships, careers, or the latest series we’re binging on Netflix. Well, prepare yourself because a goddess circle is anything but surface-level conversation — you’ll talk about fears, resentment, frustrations, and more in an incredibly supportive and cathartic way, surrounded by others who are dropping equally vulnerable struggles. It’s eye-opening to see firsthand everyone spilling their heart out and remember that none of us are immune to problems, especially when we are used to the constant barrage of highlight reels on social media.
Sorry guys, most are girls-only.
If it’s a goddess circle you’re attending, most likely it'll be an event catered to women, meant to focus on the sacred bond of femininity cultivated in circles dating back to a strong Native American tradition. That’s not to say men aren’t welcome or that men’s circles don’t exist — they do! In fact, there are talking circles of all types, including co-ed and even for children too.
It’s like group meditation and therapy, wrapped in one.
Although at first it feels really intimidating to bare your soul to a group of people, regardless if you know them or not, it is so therapeutic. There are elements of both group meditation and therapy here. Yes, you’ll sit in a circle taking turns sharing your take on the night’s topic, but you’ll also likely be invited to meditate as a group and reflect on what your intentions are. The combination of the two feels like the ultimate self-care. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, empowered, and as if a weight has been lifted off your shoulders.
They usually take place around a new or full moon.
There’s a reason for this; traditionally circles and ceremonies were held around the moon cycle, celebrating the new beginnings that a new moon brings and setting intentions with the full moon. Rewire News interviewed Patty Smith of the Leech Lake Band of Minnesota Ojibwe, a Native American tribe, who talked about the significance of the moon: “Our moons are a time of cleansing and renewal. Recognizing this cycle helps keep us healthy in body and mind and reminds the community of our significance as women.”
Prepare to say goodbye (to resentment, stagnancy, etc.).
Remember why you’re doing this, and it’s not to simply occupy a night in your calendar. You’re here to feel a release and let go of negativity in whatever way it’s manifested in your life. That means saying goodbye to things you’re unnecessarily holding on to, airing out your problems, and making a promise to yourself to let go and move on.
There may be snacks. And a bonfire!
There is no single “right” way to host a goddess circle, but many bring in social aspects too, which makes for a fun evening of bonding. Think a potluck dinner with healthy and organic snacks, chatting over glasses of wine, and sometimes even a bonfire as part of a releasing ritual.
Can’t attend a goddess circle, but still looking for a release? Try our Heart & Soul playlist on Alo Moves for a variety of soul-stirring yoga and meditation classes.