Now that you have the outline for your first circle and you’ve enrolled the ideal women, you are almost ready to lift the veil! Here are some nitty-gritty details to ensure your circle will go smoothly and that the Goddess’s energy will flow unhindered.
Write a Checklist
In the days before your circle, create a checklist of EVERYTHING you will need to bring with you. Before you go to set up, check your list! We always think we’ll remember certain items, but it’s best to leave nothing to memory.
Be sure to include on your list:
- Your outline of your circle
- A clock
- Music equipment (MP3 player, speakers, any cords)
- Refreshments, if planned (including cups, napkins, serving utensils, dishcloth)
- Extra yoga mats
Create a Welcoming Space
First impressions are so important. You want your participants to feel welcomed from the moment they step onto the property! Make sure the pathway to your space is clearly marked or add signs if necessary.
In your room, make the environment as pleasing to the senses as possible. Play music that evokes the mood you want, and consider the scents in the room, using aromatherapy, incense or fresh flowers. Experiment with the available lighting in advance, bearing in mind what time of day your circle will be held (you may want to bring additional soft lighting).
It may help to set up a few yoga mats or other markers to indicate the seating arrangement you intend, so people will know where to set up their seats without asking. Consider if you need a plan for those not comfortable sitting on the ground.
Plan ahead so that you can set up the room and be ready for your guests to arrive without feeling rushed. Consider asking someone to help you set up, so you can be relaxed and receptive.
Keep Comfort in Mind
Learn in advance how to control the temperature in the room you are using, getting any necessary training on thermostats, fans, or windows. Your guests’ physical comfort will greatly affect their ability to be present during the circle.
Also know where the bathrooms are located (and check to make sure they’re clean and well-stocked!) so you can direct your participants.
Be Present in your Heart
Before your first guest arrives, take a moment to ground into your own heart. Send out your intention that each woman receive the community and support she is most needing in your sacred space.
As each woman arrives, welcome her personally. Introduce yourself to any newcomers, and take the time to introduce women to each other. If yours is a larger circle, identify an ambassador in advance to help with welcoming the women to the space.
When it’s time to start, invite everyone to come to the circle. Again take a moment to connect to your heart and the Divine, knowing She is holding the circle with you. Take several deep breaths, and let Her lead through you.
Throughout the circle, keep an eye on the time adjusting your outline as necessary. Some activities will take more time than you anticipate, and some will take less. Be ready to let the energy of the circle lead you, without sticking too rigidly to your plan.
End with Clarity
Before you close the circle, let everyone know when the next circle will be held and any other planning details. If you are offering an option to commit to a series of circles, explain these logistics and the price before the circle ends. Invite them to register and pay today after the circle, which will make them more committed to show up at the next one.
Be sure to close the circle on time. This is an important aspect of keeping a healthy container for your circle. You can invite people to linger afterwards (if that is an option), but also be clear about the needs of the space if there is another event after yours.
You may want to arrange in advance for a volunteer to help you clean up afterwards. If possible, be available to say goodbye to each woman. Again, this personal touch will make all the difference in creating a sense of connection and warmth so women will want to return again and again!
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