Simplicity in the Sunshine: June Reflections from the Circle

A deep and joyful thank you to everyone who came out to the Simplicity Living Circle on Saturday. With the sun high and a light breeze whispering through Lacey Woods Park, it was a golden afternoon for our largest gathering yet—30 radiant souls, all drawn by the pull of nature, community, and simplicity.

This month’s circle was intentionally more freeform, beginning with a grounding and sacred honoring by Shaman Phil, who opened the space by calling in the Four Directions, the Sky above, and the Earth below. I then lit the fire at the heart of our gathering.

Primal Drumming & Simplicity

Nikki and Nick led us into our first experience—Primal Drumming & Simplicity—a rhythmic and visceral invitation to return to the body, to the breath, to the beat of our own inner knowing. Drumming is an ancient form of meditation and expression, bypassing the busy mind to help us drop into presence. Getting primal connects us with the wild, unscripted parts of ourselves that long to be seen and heard without words. It’s this same energy of authenticity and grounded rhythm that lies at the heart of a simple life.

Celebrating Litha - Summer Solstice

Following this, I shared about Litha, the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year and a powerful time to honor the fullness of light and life. The word Litha is rooted in ancient Anglo-Saxon tradition, likely tied to Germanic midsummer festivals and fire rites meant to honor the sun's strength and bless the land. At this point in the Wheel of the Year, we celebrate abundance and vitality—yet also begin to acknowledge the slow return to darkness. This duality reminds us to both harness the light and prepare to let go.

As we build toward the upcoming Full Moon in Sagittarius on Wednesday, June 11, we are gifted a moment to stoke the flames of our personal truth. Sagittarius energy invites us to expand beyond our comfort zones—toward freedom, exploration, and optimism. Paired with Litha’s fiery momentum, this moon offers a potent window to claim our boldest desires and release outdated fears. Whether journaling by moonlight, setting intention candles, or dancing barefoot under the stars, let your spirit stretch wide.

Sacred Connections

After our circle teachings, each participant shared their name and what brought them to the group. A beautiful and unexpected theme emerged: transition. Some were stepping into retirement, others navigating uncertainty, many seeking deeper connection with both the natural world and kindred spirits. We welcomed several newcomers as well as our strongest returner group to date. The web of community is growing stronger with every gathering.

Mindfulness Walk

From there, we ventured into a mindful forest walk, guided by the principle of present-moment awareness. As we moved silently through the trees, the path invited us to notice—not just what’s around us, but what’s stirring within. Mindful walking is a simple yet sacred practice that reconnects us with our bodies, the breath, and the earth beneath our feet. No agenda. Just presence.

Letting Go, Inviting In Ritual

The final portion of the evening was beautifully unstructured. Participants were invited to write down what they wished to release and welcome in, placing their papers into the fire when they felt called. Drumming organically returned, sparking spontaneous connection and creative play. Conversations, laughter, and rhythmic heartbeats continued well past our usual end time, lingering sweetly until 6 PM.

Looking Back: May’s Simplicity Living Circle Gratitude Practice

Many participants also reflected fondly on last month’s gratitude practice, led by our very own Mamadou. He opened with a deeply personal story that anchored the circle in heartfelt appreciation. What followed was a wave of connection—open hearts, shared vulnerability, and a reminder that even unconventional rituals can become sacred when held with intention. Thank you, Mamadou, for your courage and grace.

Looking Ahead: A Leader-Full Community

The Simplicity Living Circle is intentionally leader-full, which means we co-create together. Each month’s gathering is shaped by the gifts and wisdom of those who step forward. We are currently seeking facilitators for July and August. If you feel called to lead an activity or share a practice, please contact me.

We’re also excited to announce that going forward, we will host seasonal feasts during the equinox gatherings—Mabon (Autumn Equinox) and Ostara (Spring Equinox)—to honor the sacred rhythms of harvest and renewal. Rooted in Celtic tradition, Mabon celebrates balance and gratitude as the light and dark meet, while Ostara marks the return of growth and fertility. We will curate a seasonal menu and invite members to sign up for dishes, potluck-style. More delicious details to come!

Community Spotlights

We’re thrilled to celebrate Nikki Zalesak, who recently moved her healing practice, Rainwalker Healing, to a new office space in Rosslyn, Virginia. Nikki is a gifted hypnotherapist, massage therapist, and Reiki Master whose work blends intuitive bodywork, spiritual guidance, and deep energetic attunement with a clinical approach. Her new space is a sanctuary for healing and transformation. She will relaunch her website in the next few weeks with her new location. You can reach Nikki via Instagram.com/rainwalkerhealing or by calling her directly at 202-306-5926.

As for me, I (Dani) am on the cusp of a major shift. I’m seriously considering taking early retirement to step more fully into my life coaching practice. This decision has been years in the making, rooted in my desire to live and serve more intentionally. I currently have two coaching slots available for new clients. If you’re seeking clarity, support, or a sacred nudge forward, visit my site Coaching with Dani to learn more. You can also sign up to follow my free Simplicity Living Blog.

Until next time, may your days be rooted in presence, your rhythms in balance, and your heart wide open. The sun is high, the drumbeat is strong, and the circle continues.

☀️🌿🔥
With love,
Dani & Nikki