+ WITNESS +

A circle is a place where we are both heard & seen and hear & see. These are guidelines to hold space together.

• one person speaks at a time

• each person speaks from the heart - I focused-statements

• practice conscious listening

• listen to understand, with non-judgement 

• we are not here to fix, or impact outcome, only to listen

• allow the person to share fully 

• allow for silence and pauses and feel free to speak when you are ready 

• all emotions are welcome

• all beliefs are welcome

• ahimsa - practice the act of non-harming, nonviolence

• everything said in circle is confidential 

• share to your comfort level

• you are allowed to pass or remain silent

• give yourself permission to take care of yourself  >>>  Holding space for yourself to hold space for others. Give yourself permission to take care of yourself in this space. Breathe. Ground yourself with senses. Move or quietly leave (pause video mute audio) if you need (pause and see if you can be aware of what is happening inside yourself and then take care of you). 
  

>>>  EVERYTHING IS OPTIONAL <<<

Ask yourself: “what if I considered every interaction I had, every engagement as holy? “ (Sarah Gottess)