One of my favorite things about Lakewood is that it's a community where people genuinely seek connection. While we often gather around school events, neighborhood celebrations, and local businesses, I also believe we need spaces where we can simply slow down, reflect, and reconnect with ourselves and one another.

On July 1, I had the privilege of facilitating a Women's Circle at BuDhaGirl Wellness Collective alongside my friend and fellow Lakewood neighbor, Lauren Cureton, the Collective's Wellness Director. Lauren opened the evening with a grounding breathwork practice and concluded our time together with a restorative sound bath, creating a beautiful space for meaningful conversation and reflection.

Our discussion centered on the authentic self, inspired by Internal Family Systems (IFS), a therapeutic model developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. Together, we explored the idea that beneath the many roles we fill, the expectations we carry, and the protective patterns we've developed throughout our lives, there is a calm, compassionate, curious core within each of us. IFS calls this our Core Self. Rather than striving to become someone different, the journey is often one of remembering who we've been all along.

As women shared their experiences, a common theme emerged. Many of us have become so skilled at caring for others, achieving, and keeping everything together that we've lost touch with ourselves in the process. The evening served as a gentle reminder that healing doesn't always begin by trying harder. Often, it begins by becoming more curious, more compassionate, and more connected to our inner experience.

Women's Circles are not group therapy or networking events. They're intentional gatherings designed to foster authentic conversation, personal reflection, and meaningful community. In a culture that constantly asks us to do more, choosing to pause can be one of the most life-giving decisions we make.

Lauren and I are excited to host our next Women's Circle at BuDhaGirl Wellness Collective on Wednesday, August 26 from 6:30-8:30PM. If you'd like to join us, simply scan the QR code below to learn more and register. We'd love to welcome you for an evening of connection, reflection, and community.