Art is our one true global language. It knows no nation, it favors no race, and it acknowledges no class. It speaks to our need to reveal, heal, and transform. It transcends our ordinary lives and lets us imagine what is possible.
Richard Kamler
We invite you to lean into the boundless worlds of the imagination. In the process, you might experience how healing spaces open up between the thinking heart and the feeling mind—between the inner and outer realms.
If you feel drawn to embark on a journey of self-discovery, one of these circles might be for you. We’ll engage in a variety of creative, artistic expressions, such as writing, journaling, painting, moving, and making or listening to music. The emphasis is on creative play, and all levels of experience are welcome.
Writing circles
Studies show that writing can boost your immune system and help you find meaning. Writing is the ultimate “circle of one.” In these circles, you can share with others what you’ve learned about yourself in the process of writing.
Writing from the heart
This writing circle is inspired by our internal creative spaces and by listening deeply to self. We welcome all experiences and levels of creativity. There are no prerequisites. This is not a learning-how-to-write or critique circle. Instead, it's a healing circle in which we embrace the agreements of deep listening, compassion, respect, and safety. It's a place where we show up with a willingness to care and share, and where we allow our experiences to unfold through the support of a listening community. We write our hearts’ wisdom found in the silence of listening to our own inner voice and witness. We do not presume to fix or change one another's writing. Sharing is welcome, but there is no requirement to do so.
Journaling for Self-Discovery
We can be our own greatest teachers, best advisors, and guides on the journey through our lives. But we must listen deeply to hear what's waiting quietly below the noise of our busy minds. Writing can be a powerful way to give voice to that inner part of ourselves. This circle will use self-reflective journaling to open the doorway to self-discovery and healing. You are welcome, whether you already have a journaling practice or wish to start one. Each session will include a self-reflective writing exercise and the option to share learnings in a safe and compassionate space. No experience, skill, or writing talent is required--just the desire to listen to the part of you that longs to be heard.
Expressive arts circles
Everyone is an artist, and everyone is a healer. We feel inspired by Rachel Naomi Remen’s words when she says: “At the deepest level, the creative process and the healing process arise from a single source. When you are an artist, you are a healer; a wordless trust of the same mystery is the foundation of your work and its integrity.”
In some of these circles, we will chant, draw, move, and/or write.
Expressive Arts 2
Expressive Arts 1
Expressive Arts 3
Poetry and the soul’s yearning: Discovering the invisible
“Poetry is the journal of the sea animal living on land, wanting to fly in the air. Poetry is a search for syllables to shoot at the barriers of the unknown and the unknowable. Poetry is a phantom script telling how rainbows are made and why they go away.” Carl Sandburg
This circle is a monthly coming together to hear poems that can reveal the unknown and a new path of meaning and belonging. The 30-minute reading by Judith Adams of her own and others work will be followed by a healing circle to discover and share what makes life meaningful to us.
Judith Adams has published four books of poetry. She was selected as a Washington State Humanities speaker from 2018-2021 and has been a Healing Circles Langley host since 2015.
Song Circle
Singing together can awaken the spirit, deeply soothe the heart, and create a supportive community. Songs like "Imagine" can inspire hope. "Let it be" speaks of acceptance when the way forward is unclear. "Shower the people you love with love" reminds us of the simple act of kindness.
Join us for the for a song circle around the virtual campfire, or simply let the music wash over you.
No talent necessary, just bring your beautiful heart.
Register
Please note
Healing circles are groups of peers who support one another through deep listening and compassion. Circle participants abide by agreements, including agreements around confidentiality. The volunteers who host healing circles do not provide medical or psychotherapeutic advice or treatment. Participation in a healing circle does not replace the care provided by a qualified healthcare professional.
