Simplicity Living Circle Recap
Lacey Woods Park | Saturday, 7 March
Ethan leading the Circle.
On a cool early-March afternoon, members of the Simplicity Living Circle gathered once again beneath the tall trees of Lacey Woods Park. Winter still lingered in the air, but there was a quiet sense that the season was turning — a fitting backdrop for a gathering centered on reflection, choice, and connection.
Ethan opened the circle with a gentle grounding practice, inviting everyone to settle into the moment and arrive fully in the space we were sharing together. The sounds of the woods, the rhythm of our breathing, and the presence of community created a calm and welcoming beginning.
From there, participants paired up with someone they did not already know. In these small, intentional conversations, we reflected on a meaningful decision from our lives — a moment when a choice changed our path in some way. Each person shared how that decision shaped them, how it affected others around them, and how they view it now with the wisdom of time and hindsight.
Though the exercise lasted only twenty minutes, it sparked powerful connection. When the group gathered again in the circle, several participants shared their aha moments — reflections on courage, growth, unexpected outcomes, and the ways our choices ripple outward in ways we often only recognize years later.
After these reflections, the energy of the group shifted quietly into movement. Ben led the Circle into our mindfulness walk through the woods. In silence, we walked slowly along the forest path, opening our senses to the world around us — the texture of the earth beneath our feet, the cool air, the subtle sounds of branches and birds. It was a simple practice, yet deeply restorative.
We returned to the circle for our traditional fire ritual. One by one, members were invited to reflect on what they wished to release and what they hoped to invite into their lives. Each intention was written on paper and offered to the fire. Some spoke their words aloud, while others chose silence — both honored equally in the space we share together.
Gathering after the gathering at Northside Social for connection, community, and celebration.
As always, the gathering did not end when the circle closed. Several members lingered to talk and enjoy the warmth of community, and many continued the conversation afterward at Northside Social — where we also celebrated Christina’s birthday with laughter and good company.
Moments like these remind us that simplicity is often found in the most basic human experiences: listening deeply, walking together, sharing stories, and gathering around a fire.
If this kind of community resonates with you, we warmly invite you to join us.
Our next gathering will be Saturday, 4 April at 4:00 PM at Lacey Woods Park, where we will hold our annual spring potluck at the pavilion. Members are encouraged to bring a dish to share and to label ingredients for those with dietary restrictions.
Additionally, Circle members Dani and Mark will be hosting a Full Moon Meditation and Celebration on Wednesday, 1 April in Del Ray, Alexandria. More details will be shared soon.
Whether you are new to the Circle or have been walking alongside us for years, you are always welcome.
Come as you are.
Bring curiosity.
Leave a little lighter.