What I've learned about human behavior from hosting circles and creating a conscious community.
We’ve all heard the term “building community” at an exponential rate lately. A byproduct of the pandemic and the general awakening of how flawed this hamster wheel system has been.
Having seen the need for sisterhood and support specifically in the workplace, I launched Las Brujas 4 years ago. Originally formed by hosting lunches to meet new friends in each country or city I was in and in the last few years, created more structure with monthly programs featuring unique facilitators and experiences to go deep, connect, and heal with others. The last year, I partnered with men’s circles and added this to the regular programming of Las Brujas. Facilitating and hosting, I’ve noticed patterns from these experiences, here’s what kept coming up.
We all want to be seen. I remember hearing a talk with Oprah, having interviewed thousands of people, from the Dali Lama to people on death row, she said when the camera is turned off, they always ask the same thing “how did I do?” This must be an immediate trait of vulnerability, by exposing ourselves we also need recognition. And some need more than others. Imagine if you grew up as a child never being acknowledged, without having a reflection of your power back. We are all humans living a human experience in constant exposure. It feels great to be acknowledged.
We all can learn to be better listeners and the reciprocity of presence. I’m the type of person who had to learn to hold back when someone was speaking because I jump to want to solve their problems. However, I have witnessed the power of a group of people in silence, holding a space for you to safely use your voice and speak from the heart. It’s almost a clear channel of opening and receiving.
We are all mirrors and we are not alone. No matter what walk of life, or experience, we all struggle with the same struggles. It may have a different coating, a different name, or a different color but it’s the same. When we hear someone else’s story, it can resonate so deeply there’s safety in feeling not alone. It can inspire us to change, move mountains, and act.
Acceptance. The constant act of being aware is a discipline. From this awareness, we must act in acceptance because by forcing something, we are resisting our own inner needs.
Divine Masculine. I didn’t grow up with healthy male mirrors so when I was first called to connect with understanding divine masculine as part of my healing journey, I wondered what is this. How will I learn? After having connected with a handful of men’s groups and conscious men who are part of doing the inner work of breaking down traditional gender constructs, I learned not all men are dangerous. That they are opening too.
I’m so grateful to follow this path and align it with my purpose of being a connector. If you are in Mexico City and would like to join one of our circles, follow us here. And if you need support on your healing journey, I’ll teach you a special meditation for CPTSD and childhood trauma survivors. It has changed my life. Sign up here.