I convene a monthly outdoor women’s group in Forest Grove, OR. Each gathering we explore meditation, movement, and relational practices that investigate a theme and see what arises for us somatically, emotionally, and mentally. In the second half of the gathering we share one at a time from our direct experience while being witnessed and listened to. Over the years as a community we have cultivated friendship, joy, togetherness, vulnerability, courage, and inspiration.

We practice with a container of confidentiality, no advice giving, speaking and listening from the heart, and beautiful self care. Each month I share a poem. Here is one:

Let go of the ways you thought life would unfold:

the holding of plans or dreams or expectations – Let it all go.

Save your strength to swim with the tide.

The choice to fight what is here before you now will

only result in struggle, fear, and desperate attempts

to flee from the very energy you long for. Let go.

Let it all go and flow with the grace that washes

through your days whether you received it gently

or with all your quills raised to defend against invaders.

Take this on faith; the mind may never find the

explanations that it seeks, but you will move forward

nonetheless. Let go, and the wave’s crest will carry

you to unknown shores, beyond your wildest dreams

or destinations. Let it all go and find the place of

rest and peace, and certain transformation.

— Danna Faulds