The power of women gathering

Women's circles have been in existence since the dawn of time. It was a place for women to gather together and share stories, resources, wisdom, medicine, recipes, craft and traditions.

They were sacred spaces where women got to be seen, heard and witnessed. As each member would share their story, the others in the group would practice deep listening and honour their experiences without giving advice.

They were spaces for listening...spaces for non-judgement...spaces for being present. This is what made them so powerful.

For many centuries they disappeared. With the rise in patriarchy and hierarchy, the women elders, healers and spiritual teachers were persecuted because it was believed they engaged in 'witchcraft'.

Fortunately for us today, many of the wise women traditions of our ancient ancestors, continue to exist in cultures around the world, where they've been passed down from grandmother, to mother, to daughter.

I recently joined a women's circle in September last year. There are only six of us and we meet every Friday for two hours. It's something I so look forward to each week. There is a topic of discussion that we bring to the circle. We share stories, we laugh, we cry, we may need to vent, we can be raw and vulnerable, but throughout, we know that we are held and witnessed in our experiences by the rest of the women. It's a very special and sacred time.

I'm imagining a world where women gather once again in circle, and are seen, witnessed and listened to in a loving and sacred space by other women. I think our ancestors were definitely onto something.

Much love and blessings,

Cate xxx