Creating Sacred Space: The Power of Circle-Work for Personal and Collective Transformation

Circle-work is a profound and ancient practice, rooted in many traditions, offering a space for connection, reflection, and transformation. Whether it’s for personal development or within larger organisations, Circles invite us to slow down, tune in, and connect with ourselves and others in ways that more conventional styles of coaching or meetings may overlook.

In my work with Individuals and Founders in group and 1:1, the act of holding space goes far beyond just showing up for a conversation. Every Circle I facilitate is born from a place of deep intention, reverence, and self-care—both for myself and for those I support. The process of preparing the Circle is a sacred ritual in itself, one that lays the groundwork for transformation, healing, connection, and growth.

Setting the Stage: Preparing the Sacred Space

Before each Circle begins, there is a quiet but powerful process that takes place, one that mirrors the reverence I hold for this work. It starts with the physical preparation—setting up a foca point or nature altar, choosing meaningful elements like flowers, crystals, or symbols that resonate with the energy of the group. Each object placed on the altar holds intention, grounding the space in something larger than just our individual selves. It’s a reminder that we are connected to nature, the Earth, and the cycles that guide us all.

But beyond the physical, there’s an energetic preparation that is just as essential. I spend time connecting with the collective energy of the group, feeling into the emotional undercurrents, and sensing what topics or practices will best support those who are about to join. This isn’t something I rush through; it’s a slow, meditative process that honours the sacredness of the space we are creating together. It’s my way of tuning into what is needed, so that when the Circle opens, it feels like a container that’s already been lovingly held and shaped for what’s to come.

The Reverence of Holding Space: A Different Approach to Coaching

The work of holding space is something I approach with deep reverence. It’s not just about guiding a conversation or offering advice—it’s about creating a safe, sacred container where each individual feels fully seen and supported. Unlike more conventional coaching, where the focus can sometimes be on results or quick fixes, the Circle process is about slowing down, tuning in, and allowing each person the time and space to explore their inner landscape.

When I hold space in a Circle, my role is not to lead or control but to hold steady, grounded presence so that each of you can unfold in your own time. There’s a reverence here, a deep respect for the process of transformation that each individual is undergoing. I’m not here to fix anyone; I’m here to witness, to support, and to hold space for whatever emerges. This is a sacred act, one that requires humility, patience, and care.

The Circle as Self-Care: How This Practice Sustains Me

What might surprise you is that holding space for others is also a profound act of self-care for me. The rituals I use to prepare the Circle and the deep listening that takes place within it are as nourishing for me as they are for the women I work with. Tuning into the energy of the group and holding space for them is, in many ways, holding space for myself as well. It reminds me of my own practices of embodiment, presence, and self-compassion.

Even after years of working with embodiment and stillness, I still find myself struggling at times to fully “be” in the moment, especially in my personal life. Like anyone, I have moments where I want to avoid the discomfort, the quiet, and the vulnerability that comes with deep inner work. In these wild times, with so much external noise and the constant pull of social media—especially since launching my business—it can be challenging to remain centered

This past week, in particular, I’ve been reminded of how easy it is to get caught up in distraction, and how essential my personal practice is. Circle work grounds me in the present moment and reconnects me with my own inner wisdom, reminding me of the importance of stillness and reflection, even amidst the demands of life. It’s an ongoing commitment to myself and to the parts of me that need tending.

In many ways, my role in these spaces is a mirror of my own journey. I show up in these spaces, not because I have it all figured out, but because I know the power of being present, even when it’s challenging. Circle work reminds me that we are all works in progress and that growth doesn’t happen all at once—it happens slowly, in moments of quiet connection, both with ourselves and with others.

Why it Matters

The preparation, the reverence, the practice of showing up—these are not just things I do for my clients. They are ways in which I honour the sacredness of life itself. When we take the time to create a meaningful, intentional space—whether in a Circle, in our homes, or in our hearts—we invite in a sense of connection and peace that supports us in living authentically. We show up for ourselves, for each other, and for the world around us in ways that feel deeply aligned with who we truly are.

For me, the act of holding space is an ongoing practice of reverence, self-care, and alignment. It’s how I stay grounded in my own work, how I continue to grow, and how I support others in doing the same. And in that process, we all find the wisdom we need to move forward with clarity, strength, and grace.

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An Invitation to Join us in The Nest Circles

In these times of distraction and external expectations, it can be difficult to find the stillness and presence that our hearts and inner landscapes crave. But the practice of Circle offers a return to that quiet space where wisdom and insight reside.

If you feel called to explore the power of Circle-work and how it can support your own journey or your organisation, I invite you to join us in The Nest Circles. You can also book your space at the next circle, explore my other offerings, from individual sessions to group Circles, all designed to help you align with your authentic path and the cycles of nature. Together, we’ll create a space of transformation, connection, and deep presence.