Main Page
Magic Book Review (2005)
A View of Myself (2005)
The first in a series of sessions based on the Cakes for the Queen of Heaven program. Bring a photo of yourself from anytime in your life. We will explore how we see ourselves and how we think the world sees us.
Becoming Me-Exploring the Lore of the Goddess (2005)
As FMWC continues its exploration into the materials from Cakes of the Queen of Heaven, we will adventure into discovery with storytelling and role-playing of the divine feminine archetypes and their stories throughout time. The magnificent stories of Changing Woman, Demeter and Persephone, Sheila-Na-Gig, Athena and Inanna’s Descent, to name a few, are available to us for expanding our awareness of ourselves and our sacred paths through life.
Accepting My Power (2005)
As FMWC continues its exploration into the materials from Cakes for the Queen of Heaven, we will explore and claim our empowerment. What does ‘having power’ mean? How do we feel about power? How do we use power? How do we give our power away? Are we aware of how other peoples' power in our lives can affect us? How do we gain power? How do we empower ourselves and others? Please join us as we look at some of these important questions.
Exploring Boundaries/Honoring Myself (2005)
By now, you have discovered the Queendom of You. What do you allow into your Queendom? Are all travelers welcome? During this session we will explore our concept of boundaries. Defining them, using them, at least examining them. What’s mine and what’s yours? Do good fences make good neighbors? Sometimes do you just have to know where to draw the line? What strategies to we have available? Come and contribute your learning’s on this topic.
How I Got to Where I Was/Honoring My Sacred Self (2005)
Shekinah. Breath of Heaven. El Shaddai, Elohim, Queen of Heaven, Havah, Lilith, Star of the Sea, Magdalene, Rachel, Leah. The Saviors of Israel in Egypt. Deborah. God’s Wife. The Many-Breasted One. A Woman Who Places Yeast in Bread. The Eagle Who..
In Session V of FMWC exploration of Cakes for the Queen of Heaven materials (Note: You can start anywhere even if you missed others - start NOW!) , we will re-image and reimagine our feminine divine heritage by drawing upon buried tales of women's power in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Singing and Celebrating. Come and play and Re-Create!
Giving Voice to the Sacred Feminine (How I Get My Voice Back)(2005)
Have you read The Red Tent, The Secret Life of Bees, The Artist’s Way?
In Session VI of FMWC exploration of Cakes for the Queen of Heaven materials (Note: You can start anywhere even if you missed others - start NOW!) , we explore the Voice of the Divine Feminine with tools to create a monologue, dance or sing. We speak, write, Sing and Dance, Drum and Draw. Where can She – and we – speak today? Do we dream of the Sacred Feminine?
Come with a story to tell.
Bellydancing in the Red Tent (2005)
IT’S TIME TO PLAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!! We are celebrating our
Success so far in exploring the Cakes materials – so, in this session
Come join in a joyful romp through bellydance-goddess land with Qadria of
Belly Revelations, a local bellydance troupe (http://www.BellyRevelations.com).
Qadria says, “I taught my first classes in the Clara Barton room of UUFR six years ago and I'm
very much looking forward to dancing with you on August 19.”
You have everything you need to be a bellydancer -- you don't need to bring a thing (except maybe a water bottle). If you want to dress up, look in your closet for something long and sparkly, maybe a shawl that will work for a hip scarf. Come prepared to have more fun than you've had since you were 3 years old!
The “Mary” (2005)
Singing, creating and meditating in the Red Tent, we will explore the myths of Isis, Mariam, Mother Mary, the Magdalene and the Star of the Sea. Come and do your own inner exploration discovering your own “true north” and finish with constructing a “Hand of Miriam.” Bring yourself and a friend!!
The Wisdom of Animals (2005)
In the Beginning was the cave—filled with drawings of animals—and a 30,000-year-old lion-headed woman.
In this session, we will explore the cave and create our own animal mask using simple but effective materials. Full Moon Women’s Circle “owns” four Animal Spirit masks: Eagle, Coyote, Bear and White Buffalo. I’d love to have 3 of you “Volunteer” to wear one of the masks and “be” the Spirit of it during the beginning of our meeting—call me! First 3 to respond, get to do it!!!
Creating a Rain Dance Ritual (2005)
Come on over to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on Wade Avenue on Friday evening and let’s see if we can manifest some gentle rain for the Raleigh area. Wear anything you associate with water and rain…bring your drum…or rainstick…or stones or whatever you think might be helpful. Tell your friends and bring them along!!!
Altar Building, Altar Care and Making a Portable Altar (2005)
Tonight’s presentation will cover techniques in building your own altar. We’ll also share techniques for taking care of your sacred items and altar cleansing techniques. Plus how you can create your own portable altar. (They’ll make fun gifts, too!)
Coyote Stories with Lynda Aiman-Smith (2004)
Coyote, the Native American trickster, is sometimes male and sometimes female (very tricksy). In this Circle we will explore aspects of some Coyote stories, discuss the elements of surprise and trickster energy, and make up our own Coyote stories. Lynda Aiman-Smith is Okla Chata heritage, and has been listening to and telling stories for her whole life. Winter is the special time for Coyote stories, so come hear some in January 2004.
Dances of Universal Peace with Farrunnissa Lila Rosa (2004)
The Dances of Universal Peace, sometimes called "Sufi Dancing," are joyous, participatory circle dances which honor and explore the world's spiritual traditions through sacred song and simple, heart-felt movement. We honor Mother Earth and Father Sky and taste many different names for Oneness, praising with body, breath, and voice, celebrating the numinous presence of the Divine in the unique beauty and holiness of all that exists. Each Dance circle is a portal to the beyond, invoking unity, ecstasy, and ultimately, the healing peace that passes understanding. Complete instructions are given. No experience is needed. Live music is provided. Farrunnissa Lila Rosa is a life-long student and teacher of Sacred Dance. She is a certified Dance teacher, Dance mentor, and member of the Mentor Teachers Guild for the Dances of Universal Peace. She is a long-time student of A Course in Miracles, a poet, singer, and musician, and an undercover ambassador to corporate America. She leads Dance meetings, workshops, and trainings across the eastern US, including on-going gatherings in the Triangle area of North Carolina.
Traveling Medicine Wheel with Gwen Mays (2004)
The circle is a sacred shape to the Native Americans, and the medicine wheel is a sacred tool. The medicine wheel contains all of the elements of life, the elements of the earth and the elements of our universe. With the medicine wheel we can learn to live in balance and in harmony with all our relations on earth, the animal people, the plant people, the stone people. Join with us as we learn the components of the medicine wheel according to the vision of Sun Bear, a Chipewa sacred teacher. We will then build small wheels which we can take with us and do several exercises using our wheels that will help us know ourselves better. As we heal ourselves, we will at the same time be contributing to the healing of the earth.
Eostara and Play-The Young Goddess with Whaledancer (2004)
At Eostara or Lady Day we begin the Spring Cycle with bunnies and eggs and the young goddess. Come and make a new start and learn a new method for setting your intent for the year. Happy and playful Eostara Finery is encouraged—your play clothes, a Spring hat, flowers in your hair – be creative and join the fun. Learn Egg Rolling Divination, Make and Decorate an Egg to remind you of your plans and hopes for the year and discover the “other” meaning of Easter with your inner child and hopes and joy.
Songs of Spirit with the Women of the Directions and the Goddesses of FMWC (2004)
Women of all traditions, and from all of the continents of the world, have raised their voices in the joy and celebration of spirit. From Asia to North America, and from Iceland to Africa, the Goddess has been honored in all of her many forms with music and the heartfelt outpourings of the human voice. Tonight, we will harmonize together as we teach each other our favorite chants and traditional songs that have vibrated over the earth for centuries in the human joy and love of Gaia, the earth mother, Creator, the great spirit, and the Goddess of a thousand names. Share a song with us, and bring your instrument to express your love and appreciation of the interdependent web of which we are all a part.
The Divine Feminine with Becky Thornton (2004)
For centuries, while our patriarchical society has been in place, the Divine Feminine has been suppressed, denigrated, ignored, and vilified. We have lost touch with that most important aspect of ourselves. Please join us as we gently explore the Divine Feminine, and discover why she is so important, why we talk about her, and what the big deal is anyway. Dress to reflect yourself, and bring a treat to share that suits your fancy. Be prepared to have fun and enjoy yourself!
Making Your Own Incense with Becky Starr (2004)
Disconnect the smoke alarm 'cause we're making incense!! This FMWC will present a beginner's overview of making incense for personal or ritual use. We will explore the reasons for using incense, various ingredients, and magical correspondences to achieve a desired goal. We will be working with several resins and herbs - including Frankincense, Sandalwood, and Rose - alone and in various combinations. Each participant will leave the workshop with a custom blended personal incense of their own design. Becky describes herself as an Eclectic Egyptian Pagan and has been playing in the herbs, making her own mysterious blends of incense, for about 4 years. She is trainer by profession and by passion, finding herself a now frequest workshop leader for Celebrate The Circle Learning Circles and Carolina Spirit Quest events. Becky is a priestess of Isis, a member of CTC, a board member and co-director of the spring 2005 Carolina Spirit Quest event and lives in Durham with her husband of 17 years, son and magical cat!
Moon Magic with Gwen Mays (2004)
Throughout history many people have worshipped and valued the moon in cultures around the world. The moon has most often been seen as female. It is even thought that moonlight was the original menstrual regulator, with all women menstruating on the New moon and ovulating on the Full moon. There is much to know about the moon and even more to feel. The moon has a vibrant, irrational energy and power which we can tap into to counteract the dullness of our over-rational society. The moon is beautiful and mysterious, yet our culture has forgotten "Her" and call it a cold rock in space. We will be learning how to use the energy of the 3 phases of the moon, and honoring the Maiden, Mother, and Crone aspects of the Goddess. Join us as we remember and rediscover this very important part of Women's Mysteries.
Sensing Energy and Your Chi with Kate Dyess (2004)
Kate Dyess, Reiki Master & Tae Kwon Do 3rd Degree Black Belt, will lead us through simple movements to practice sensing energy and our Chi. Come join us for this easy, fun, and helpful session.
Samhain and the Wheel of the Year with The Women of the Directions (2004)
People following earth-centered spirituality celebrate 8 special days througout the year, called the Wheel of the Year. The beginning of the year is Samhain, which meant Summer's End in Celtic Lands. Join us as we explore what Samhain means to us today, and do some divination while the "veil between the worlds is the thinnest." Dressing up in costume is not required, but STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. Come as your favorite witch, gyspy, Goddess or faerie. You can always "transform" after you arrive at UUFR. Be prepared to have fun and open up to new possibilities for the year ahead!
Dream Time Pleasures with Becky Starr (2004)
In this Circle we will create herbal delights to enhance our dream time. We will look at dream pillows and how they can assist you in the journey into the land of dreams. We will discuss the properties of several different herbs and how these can aid us with everything from basic relaxation to creative dreaming. Little-to-no sewing skills required. Becky is an "eclectic Egyptian pagan" and has been playing in the herbs for about four years, primarily with incense blending. She is a teacher by profession and passion, finding herself a now frequent workshop leader for Celebrate the Circle Learning Circles and Carolina Spirit Quest events. Becky is the Programs Manager and Learning Circle Coordinator for Quest's next spring event in April 2004. Becky is a Priestess of Isis, member and frequent ritual team-member of CTC, and lives in Durham, NC.
Rhythm Circle with Cathy Kieler (2003)
Inner Princess with Princess Debra (2003)
Into the Dragon's Cave with Carole Eagleheart (2003)
What blocks the flow of abundance in our lives? Come on an adventure of guided meditation, music and movement with Carole Eagleheart. We will tiptoe into the cave of the dragon who sleeps on a hoard of treasure. We will come face to face with the Goddesses Lakshmi and Sekhmet. And we will discover the hidden springs of abundance. Carole Eagleheart lives in Vermont but travels nine months of the year performing concerts and leading workshops throughout the United States and Canada. She has released five albums and three books of original music.
The East with Gwen Mays (2003)
Throughout the history of mankind, the four directions have been held as sacred. Each direction has its element, its correspondence to the position of the sun, its season, its plants and animals, and its spiritual meaning.
Join us as we explore East, where the element of air resides. The energy of the air is transforming and active whether it is a gentle breeze or a typhoon. Air contains the breath of life. Learn how we can be more like air, for the wind can go wherever it will, do whatever it wants, and affects all that it touches.
Be thinking about the effects of the powers of air in your life, and bring a journal to record the message you receive when you meet a being of air!
Creating Sacred Space with Barbara-Lynn Freed (2003)
Sacred Sound with Nimue (2003)
The power of toning, the resonance of Tibetan bowls, the percussive heartbeat of the drum, the clarity of a chime, the intense over & under tomes and vibrations of the gong: Come explore the impact of these sounds on body and soul. Experience meditation like you never have before - feel the rhythms in your chakras, immerse your body in the depths of waves of sound. Nimue will lead us in the exploration of using sound to heighten and enrich our spiritual moments and practices. Bring any instruments you care to share with the circle in creating an evening of sacredness and celebration.
The South with Gwen Mays (2003)
Throughout the history of mankind, the four directions have been held as sacred. Each direction has its element, its correspondence to the position of the sun, its season, its plants and animals, and its spiritual meaning.
Join us as we explore South, where the element of fire lives. Fire can bring life-giving warmth or destruction by reducing what is touches to its base components. Learn about the transformative powers of fire, the most intense of the elements.
Be thinking about how the powers of fire have manifested in your life, and bring a journal to record the message you receive when you meet a being of fire!
Healing and Attunement with Crystals and Elixirs with Lynette Marks (2003)
Earth changes are effecting all of us. Do you ever feel like time is speeding up frantically? Do you ever feel your cranial bones just don't leave enough room for your brain? During the information exchange portion of this circle, possible explanations for such phenomenon, some scientific principles covering the physical changes in the earth, how they effect us on a practical level and some ideas for coping with these changes will be offered.
An elixir will be created during the ceremony that will aid you in these adjustments. (The elixir will be prepared in a quartz crystal bowl and made with vinegar instead of brandy to ensure that all who wish to partake may do so). A little information on elixirs will be shared but this will not be the focus of the circle. You will be able to take a small amount of the elixir home if you bring a 1 or 2 ounce glass bottle.
Lynette Marks is a Certified and Licensed Body and Massage Therapist (LBMT), an initiated Stonekeeper, and Certified Reflexologist. . Lynette brings an eclectic background to working with crystals and healing, spawned by a near death experience in 1976 which turned her attention from physics to metaphysics. She has studied a variety of healing modalities and has developed a technique she calls the Body, Soul and Angels Healing.
The Sacred Door with Whaledancer (2003)
The Cycle of Manifestation begins and ends with The Sacred Door. We will be using techniques from Feng Shui, Goddess symbols and interactive exercises to explore our creative processes in creating abundance--assisted by the Goddess as represented by Sila Na Geige (Sheela Na Gig), Ameratsu, Venus, Juno and Fortuna.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please bring your “everyday, everything but the kitchen sink” purse!!!
Got Rocks? with Whaledancer (2003)
Rocks, rocks, and more rocks? Do you feel drawn to pick up rocks wherever you go? Bring your “pet” rocks to the circle and we will experiment with “The Laying on of Rocks.” This circle will be all experiential as we determine whether a rock has a message for us, how to use them in healing, and learn some of their qualities.
Tell HerStory with Jennie Gunther (2003)
WOMEN'S SPIRITUALITY IN STORY - "History is written by the conquerors." ('BRAVEHEART' by Randall Wallace)
So, throughout time, history has often neglected to tell the 'Full Story' - 'Our Story', 'Their Story', 'My Story' and 'Herstory' -- the story of the life – physical and spiritual -- of women, as well as stories of other minority peoples. Therefore, much balance and insight into human nature is lost in that void. In this gathering, we will explore 'Woman's Story' in
various modes -- the "WORD" through oral tradition, folklore, and literature, as well as ARTS and CRAFTS as practiced by women. We will journey through times ancient, classical and modern, and discover gifts from the goddess, and the skills, arts, thoughts and emotions contributed to the Human Story by Woman.
Facilitated by Jennie Gunther. Jennie is a Woman who has been "playing' with storytelling as , a daughter, a mother, and now a grandmother five times over, using stories for entertainment or for education to convey her preferences for humor, environmental concerns, and the World's fair treatment of humans which would lead to peace. This is a participatory session, so, be prepared to participate through song, dance, whatever, and to share "Your Story" -- a very brief recounting of something meaningful to the woman in you. Especially bring with you a STORY of a Woman important to you – an historic figure or a personal acquaintance/relative.
A Na Ni Sa Ni with Kostinichi (2003)
The First Nations people who were on this land, before the Europeans came, lived here for many thousands of years. There were numerous tribes, countless villages of people who worked, laughed, loved, worshiped, lived, and passed within the great cycle of life. Two of their major religious practices were singing and dance.
On December 29, 1889 a horrifying and enlightening event changed the will and history of an entire people. Tonight we will learn this story, sing some of the songs, and dance some of the dances that culminated in this event. We will remember.
Goddess Walks with Lynda Aiman-Smith (2002)
If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Frame Drum Workshop with Farrunnissa Lila Rosa (2002)
Spend an evening getting to know a drum that according to archeological records was played in ancient times almost exclusively by women. In the vast majority of frame drum depictions from antiquity, the drum is being held by a goddess or a priestess. Usually called "tars," frame drums are flat one-sided drums common throughtout the Mediterranean and Middle East. Traditionally, this drum is played with the fingers, holding the drum in front of you, drumhead facing out. Often there is a hole or cutout in the frame for the thumb. Lila Kealoha Rosa, a regular presenter with FullMoon WomanCircle, has played the frame drum for over 7 years and has spent the last year participating in a frame drumming intensive with Layne Redmond, the world-famous musician, recording artist, drum historian, and author of When the Drummers Were Women. Lila will lead us through the basics-holding the drum, the different strokes used, combining strokes, how to play together to a shared pulse. We'll learn a simple rhythm and explore the trance-inducing aspects of frame drumming. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Crete Goddesses with Carole Eagleheart (2002)
Join Carole Eagleheart as the FMWC journeys 4,000 years back in time to ancient Crete, where the Minoan people celebrated the Goddess in their art, their dance and their daily life. Together we will explore the Minoan civilization and celebrate the Goddess through singing, meditation, and circle dancing. Carole Eagleheart lives in Vermont but travels nine months of the year performing concerts and leading workshops throughout the United States and Canada. She has released five albums and three books of original music. In 2001 she made a pilgrimage to sacred Goddess sites in Crete. The experience inspired deep insights and new music, which she has just released in her new songbook "She Calls to Us:Songs to Celebrate the Goddess." If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Prayer Bundles with Kostinichi (2002)
"Tobacco ties are both prayers and offerings. As you put the tobacco in the cloth and tie it up, you are praying. As you fix the tobacco tie to a tree, or a bush, or the inipi, you are praying. As the air blows the tobacco ties, you are praying.” Frances Dobbs,
Native American wisewoman.
Join us in the Full Moon Women’s Circle April 26 as we explore two different ways of praying…tobacco ties, used by most Native Americans, and prayer flags, used by Tibetan Buddhists. We will discuss the similarities and differences of these, and will have the opportunity to respectfully make our own. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Shamanic Divination with Denise Gregory (2002)
"Before there was religion, there was shamanism. Before there were priests(esses), there were shamans." Michael Harner
There are many tools of divination - some are specific to a given tradition, like Tarot; some have existed before the human race placed the role of guidance in the hands of authority figures. Come experience and enjoy a method that is open to us all - the altered state induced by shamanic drumming (the shamanic journey).
Nimue, trained in the Harner method by Michael Harner and others of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, will lead us in exploring how to use Shamanic drumming as a tool for self discovery and for divining information for the Self and others. We will discuss and experience the techniques for entering non-ordinary reality. This circle will focus on journeys for others, awakening dormant spiritual abilities and unlocking the intuitive voice within, in search of answers as “urban shamans” for our tribes. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Fairy Play with Becky Thornton and Whaledancer (2002)
"When the first baby laughed for the first time, the laugh broke into a thousand pieces and they all went skipping about, and that was the beginning of fairies." Peter Pan, Act 1. In the deep and serious and profound, there is also the absolute wonder of play. Fairies are our manifestation of the sacredness of this wonderful fine art. Join with us this night as we hope to re-capture our childhood learnings and re-discover the Sacred place of play within (that's where fairies live.) Dress for fun. Bring only yourself and your inner child. We will invite the fairies to join as we celebrate together in our magic circle. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Healing and Plants with Soccorro (2002)
In the long struggle to overcome the powerful forces of nature, humans have always turned to plants for help. Food, shelter, clothing, weapons, healing and even the relief from the hardships of life have been harvested from plants. They display an astonishingly vital energy in their growth and seasonal rebirth. From the most primitive societies to the most advanced, plants have been invested with magical power. They contain the energy to make positive changes. Without realizing it, we have an intimate personal relationship with plants in our daily lives and our desitinies. Please join us in an evening of wonderment as we listen, learn and conjure our own medicinal magic with Socorro. She will guide you through a garden of delightful myths and facts that she has gathered through the years. Socorro's first gathering of "knowledge" was at a young age of four as her mother walked her through a field of wild flowers and tall weeds. Her mother showed her which plants to gather for teas to cure a headache, stomach ache and more. Together they harvested plants for beauty regimens, health and "magic." Socorro's mother introduced her to plants that would protect her and even allow her to fly in her dreams. Socorro achowledges that, although her infomation is gathered from family, books, and other cultures, her greatest teacher is Mother Earth, herself. Please join us and learn how to release a plant's energy to cause positive actions in your life. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
The West with Gwen Mays (2002)
Throughout the history of mankind, the four directions have been held as sacred. Each direction has its element, its correspondence to the position of the sun, its season, its plants and animals, and its spiritual meaning.
Join us as we explore West, where the element of water dwells. Water, the giver of life, at the same time has enormous powers of destruction. Learn about the transformative, rejuvenating, and regenerating powers of this most liquid of the elements.
Be thinking about what the powers of water have meant in your life, and bring a journal to record the message you receive when you meet a being of water! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Playing With Desire with Ginny Going (2002)
For women, discovering what we truly desire can be a puzzling process and staying in touch with what we truly desire can be an on-going spiritual discipline. Throughout our lives and on a daily basis we are bombarded with other people’s information and expectations families, peers, employers, religious and community organizations, the media, the culture around us.
Using simple, incremental forms from InterPlay, we'll play with moving information out of our bodies (exforming) and getting in touch with our own patterns and preferences, needs and desires, with what brings us deep satisfaction and joy.
InterPlay provides an easy and playful path to an embodied life through affirmation, community and play. It is rooted in ease and affirmation and provides bodyspirit nourishment.
Wear loose clothes you'll feel comfortable moving in. No previous experience of any kind needed. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Sacred Food and Spiritual Eating with Phoenix (2002)
Pot roast, fried chicken, apple pie, corn on the cob...What's your favorite comfort food? Do you wolf down whatever fast food you grabbed on your lunch hour at your desk? Is it your custom to sit down as a family and share a meal? Do you eat to live or live to eat? Join us as we talk about the connection between our souls and our sustenance. Food is as fundamental to our survival as air or water and yet we often overlook the spiritual experience we can give ourselves while providing our bodies with the fuel it needs. We'll discuss ways to enhance our spiritual lives through our daily meals, the role that it plays in our lives and the way that society warps our relationship with food. Bring an appetite because we will be eating with joy (vegetarian fare will be provided). We would like to encourage you to bring your favorite food to share in the circle. Rediscover the art of cooking for self and others through simple methods of restoring the joy in eating: prayer, visualization, solitary love feasts, etc. Phoenix describes herself as "one of those people who loves food and loves to eat and loves to cook..." So come, join in and break bread with your sisters! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Writing Your Life/Finding Your Voice with Judith Valerie (2002)
Writing can be a radical act! It gets us in touch with our passions, frustrations, life-questions and sometimes our answers. It unbinds, frees, empowers and strengthens us. Writing helps name and validate our personal experiences, discern our unique truths and find our own voice. It gives us ways to express ourselves and develop more impact and creative potency in Life with the self, family and world. Judith Valerie will lead us through simple incremental exercises designed to tap into our creative source. Come with a question. Come with a desire. Come with paper and pen. We'll invite the Mystery at the Heart of the Universe to flow through our writing and sharing in the circle. Judith has been journaling (almost) daily for 30 plus years. For her 50th birthday she salf-published "Belly-Spirit: Healing Food Addiction, Befriending the Body: A Spiritual Journey." She is a Yoga Teacher, InterPlay Leader, Writer, Workshop Facilitator and Improvisational Performer with Off the Deep End! ensemble. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
The North with Gwen Mays (2002)
Throughout the history of mankind, the four directions have been held as sacred. Each direction has its element, its correspondence to the position of the sun, its season, its plants and animals, and its spiritual meaning.
Join us as we explore North, where the element of earth stands firm. Learn about the solid, creating, strengthening powers of this most dense element. From the earth, which appears delicate, both mountains and skyscrapers are formed.
Be thinking about what the powers of earth have meant in your life, and bring a journal to record the message you receive when you meet a being of earth! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
I Promise Myself – A Ceremony of Self Commitment
with
Becky Thornton & Stardancer (2001)
Imagine a woman...... who loves herself. A woman who gazes with loving kindness upon her past and present, her body and its needs, and her ideas and emotions. Whose capacity to love others deepens as she extends loving kindness to herself.
Imagine a woman who accepts herself. A woman who has descended into her own richly textured humanity, turning a merciful eye toward all that she discovers. Whose capacity to live non-judgmentally toward others deepens as she is merciful toward herself.
Imagine a woman who remains faithful to herself through all the seasons of life. A woman who preserves allegiance to herself even in the face of opposition. Whose capacity to sustain interest in others deepens as she is loyal to herself.
Imagine yourself as this woman.
A woman's vow to herself is the first step to achieving balanced, rich and reciprocal relationships with others. This ceremony is based on the work of Patricia Lynn Reilly. Ms Reilly developed the 'Vow of Faithfulness' composition process by refashioning the wedding vow and wedding ceremony into transformational resources for women.
Join us as we create vows to ourselves and our dreams. Witness the stories of women as they talk about their path to the present, and what they are claiming (or re-claiming) and committing to themselves for the future. Women are encouraged to bring your daughters (13 years of age or above), or Maiden friends to this ceremony. Bring a ring, necklace, or any special item as a reminder to yourself about your commitment to self in this ceremony. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Exploring Past Lives
Through Shamanic Drumming
with
Denise Gregory (2001)
"Before there was religion, there was shamanism. Before there were priests(esses), there were shamans." Michael Harner
There are many tools of divination - some are specific to a given tradition, like Tarot; some have existed before the human race placed the role of guidance in the hands of authority figures. Come experience and enjoy a method that is open to us all - the altered state induced by shamanic drumming (the shamanic journey).
Denise Gregory, trained in the Harner method by Michael Harner and others of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, will lead us in exploring past lives using Shamanic drumming as a tool for self discovery and unlocking the intuitive voice within. We will discuss the techniques for entering non-ordinary reality and awakening dormant spiritual abilities.
Please bring a rattle or drum, warm socks, a bandanna or eye mask, cushion or blanket to lay upon, a pen and notebook to record your journey. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Discovering the Goddess Within
with
Carole Eagleheart (2001)
Throughout the world we are witnessing a reawakening of the feminine, a profound upheaval within the consciousness of women. If we look around, there are more than a few outer signs of the emergence of this new feminine awareness. Whether it is feminism, the political emergence of women, or visionary women artists, many women are manifestly responding to deep and urgent forces within themselves. Many are beginning to call these powerful inner forces and the images and changes they bring "the Goddesses within".
Through music, movement, meditation and art, we will explore different aspects of the Goddess. We will search for those aspects within ourselves, and discover how the Goddess within us can bring strength and joy to our lives. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Daughters of Artemis
An Evening for the Maidens
with
Gretchen Laymon (2001)
A special invitation is extended to girls and young women to join us for this springtime circle honoring The Maiden. Do some reading, if you can, about the Goddess Artemis (also called Diana). Why is she especially associated with this phase of life? What areas of your life could use her protection and aid, regardless of your age?
We will all bring: fresh flowers for decorations, pictures of yourself (and/or an ancestor) as a girl or young woman to share on the altar, a small token gift representing a bit of wisdom you wish to share as a give away present and a snack for afterward. Festive dress, especially the white of the maiden, will definitely be in style! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Magic & Medicine of Plants with Socorro (2001)
If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
The Mask Journey
with
Kat McIntosh (2001)
Masks have been created and used by cultures around the world for millennia. They have served at ceremonies and rites of passage by making the unseen world of spirits visible and accessible. They enable shamans to connect with their spirit guides in some cultures and act as intermediaries for the ancestors in others. In carnival and our modern holy-day Halloween, masks give people the outlet to express the collective shadow self.
In this workshop we will explore the transformative power of masking first hand. We
will learn about Jung’s concept of the shadow self and how creating our own spirit
masks can help us in our journey to become whole. The mask journey is ultimately a
journey of personal transformation. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Belly Dancing
with
Amani Redd and Lynda Aiman-Smith(2001)
Belly dance is a beautiful and ancient dance form that can be done by women of all ages, shapes, and sizes. This dance originated in the Middle East and the Orient, and the form we will do in class incorporates aspects of traditional as well as American Tribal Belly Dance. (Little known fact -- The term "belly" dance is a mis-hearing of the phrase beledi dance -- beledi is a basic dance rhythm).
Belly dance is an expression of the unity of our body with every other part of our being. Belly dance is dance By the women, of the Women and for the Women." (This quote is from Qadria, a local dance teacher). If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Aura Drawing
with
Sally Nyholt (2001)
Each of us has an aura (or electromagnetic field) that surrounds us and is an extension of our physical body. The quality and characteristics of our aura can reflect the state of our health and well being -- on many levels. Aura drawings are a way to foster an increased awareness and understanding of your personal aura, as well as an opportunity to open to and use your intuitive senses.
Each woman will create and receive an aura drawing. Absolutely no experience in drawing or the intuitive arts is necessary; only a willingness to relax, be open to a new experience and trust your inner knowing.
Guidance and materials will be provided; however if you have your own pastels, conte crayons or colored pencils, you may wish to bring them. We will spend time lying on the floor, so bring a pillow, blanket or yoga mat.
Sally Nyholt (Many Hawks) is a Nurse Massage Therapist and Certified Healing Touch Practitioner in Cary, North Carolina. She has been studying and practicing energy work, healing and the intuitive arts for over 20 years. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Trance Drumming ~ Trance Dancing
with
Lynda Aiman-Smith (2001)
Personal meditation and trance are powerful spiritual practices. They become even more powerful when they are group meditation and trance. We will experience the power of drumming and of movement to develop group trance experience. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Divination Tools with Phoenix (2001)
Throughout the ages humanity has attempted to look beyond the veil for
guidance. Astrology, runes, tarot, I Ching, and scrying are just a few of
the methods that have been used over centuries to help us tap into the
unknown. Please join us on October 26 for a night of exploring divination,
its uses, myths, techniques and methods. We'll discuss what true divination
is and what it is not. The focus will be on the Tarot but several methods
will be discussed and all are encouraged to bring their favorite divination
tools. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Dancing with the Darkness with Farrunnissa Lila Rosa (2001)
If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Earth Circle
with
Carole Eagleheart (2000)
Through stories, chants and dances, we will have a chance to explore Native American traditions. We will learn to make a medicine pouch, and will walk the Medicine Wheel and experience the Totem Animals at each direction.
Carole Eagleheart has toured for over two decades as a singer and songwriter performing for universities, national demonstrations, women’s prisons and UU congregations. She has won international awards in radio and film. Carole is a certified teacher of the Seneca Wolf Clan Teaching Lodge and works to share Native teachings.
She has released 5 albums of original music including, "You Are the One", "Sometimes I Wish", "Womanriver Flowing On", "Thirteen Ships", and "Rainbows in My Mind".
What others are saying about Carole's work:
* The Southern Voice: "If the Goddess ever decides to do a concert tour, she will probably invite Carole ... as an opening act."
* The Houston Press: "Magical."
* Ladyslipper: "Reaches out and lifts the spirit." If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Mehndi
with
Kat MacIntosh (2000)
Mehndi is the ancient art of applying henna designs to the body used throughout the world. It has a long history as a way to celebrate weddings, supplicate to the household goddess, and ward off evil.
Kat MacIntosh will facilitate this event and has a great evening lined up for us. She's bringing "better mehndi bags, and making more stencils". So let's get together again and beautify our goddess selves! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Dances of Universal Peace
with
Farunnissa(2000)
From the beginning of time sacred movement, song and story have brought people together - at times of seasonal ceremony and celebration, as part of everyday life and life passages, in daily renewal and meditation. The Dances of Universal Peace are part of this timeless tradition of sacred dance.
The Dances of Universal Peace spring from the vision of the sufi mystic Samuel L. Lewis (1896 - 1971), an American Sufi teacher who taught and studied deeply in the traditions of Zen Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity and Judaism. Inspired by Sufi Hazrat Inayat Khan, Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, and his modern dance teacher Ruth St.
Denis, he envisioned a body of dance which would combine mystical practice with a body-based reality of world peace.
The Dances are a joyous, multi-cultural way to touch the spiritual essence within ourselves and others. They use sacred phrases, chants, music and movement from the many traditions of the earth to promote peace and integration within individuals and groups. There are no performers or audience: new arrivals and old hands form the
circle together. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Movement & Play Meditation
with
Judith Valerie (2000)
“Dance and music are essential ways of celebrating our bodies and spirits. Dance magically reweaves the fabric of life, renewing and transforming us. As the body moves, the rational mind is stilled and a deeper wisdom emerges. Dance is beginning to reclaim it’s place as one of the most important forms of worship.” - Hallie Inglehart Austen, “The Heart of the Goddess: Visions, Myths and Meditations of the Worldwide Sacred Feminine”
Explore the delicious fullness of your body spirit with slow, mindful movement. Invite the dancer within you out to play. Experience the luxury, freedom, joy and aliveness of your creative core to expand your concept of dance and reconnect with your inner goddess. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Shaman Drumming
with
Denise Gregory (2000)
"Before there was religion, there was shamanism. Before there were priests(esses), there were shamans." Michael Harner
There are many tools of divination - some are specific to a given tradition, like Tarot; some have existed before the human race placed the role of guidance in the hands of authority figures. Come experience and enjoy a method that is open to us all - the altered state induced by shamanic drumming (the shamanic journey).
Denise Gregory, trained in the Harner method by Michael Harner and others of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, will lead us in using Shamanic drumming as a tool for self discovery and unlocking the intuitive voice within. We will discuss the techniques for entering non-ordinary reality and awakening dormant spiritual abilities. There will be at least one experience with the Shamanic journey for all participants.
Please bring a rattle or drum, warm socks, a bandanna or eye mask, cushion or blanket to lay upon, a pen and notebook to record your journey. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
The Ritual of Relationships
with
Becky Thornton and Janine Sutphen (2000)
Join us as we celebrate the many relationship changes that occur in a woman's life- marriage/new love, divorce, death, singleness, relocation. Bring to this ritual a token of the change that you wish to celebrate to add to our alter. Before you arrive, spend some time thinking over the life state you wish to celebrate. Know that every day
that we are alive there is a reason to CELEBRATE BEING A WOMAN! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Drum Party
with
Yarrow & Lynda Aiman-Smith (2000)
For thousands of years, people have enjoyed the rhythms of the drum. Drumming is used to celebrate rites of passage, to commune with Spirit, or just to have fun ! ! ! Join us as Yarrow and Lynda lead us in various drum rhythms and we explore the magic of the drum. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Meet the Goddess
with
Yarrow & Melody (2000)
For this circle we invite each woman to come in the persona of an aspect of the Goddess. Dress as the Goddess, bring foods/objects sacred to her, and come prepared to tell Her story. For example, if you have been feeling especially connected to Athena, Goddess of Wisdom, bring her shield, olive branch, and owl. If you have been honoring Aphrodite, Lady of Love, then apples and shells and Aphrodite tales would be welcomed. If you don’t know a particular Goddess, come as the Goddess you are, the Goddess within! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Croning Ceremony
with
Yarrow (2000)
This is the time of year to celebrate the crone aspect of the triple Goddess. She is the elder, the wise woman who shares her knowledge and experience.
We welcome women of all ages to come to this ritual. Has an older woman given you special nurturing or inspiration in your life? Bring some names of crones that are special to you, whether they are family or friends, real or fictional characters. We will also invite any women who choose to be identified as crones to be especially honored in the circle.
Everyone is invited to bring an item that reminds you of where you have been in your life and another item symbolic of where you would like to be in the next phase of your life. These will be blessed by the circle for you to take home full of fabulous woman energy! If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK
Your Favorite Magical Book(s) Review
with
Kat MacIntosh (1999)
Many of us have collected wonderful books over the years. They are a constant source of joy and resource. Some of these books have given us hope in times of need, taught us important lessons on our path, have influenced us, or were simply a pleasure to read. This Full Moon WomanCircle will be a sharing of your favorite books - magical, ritual, spiritual, or just a great read! Bring five of your favorite books to 'show and tell'. A perfect event as we move into the holiday season of giving and receiving. If you attended this circle, let us know what you thought. FEEDBACK