A new movement is taking place that brings emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate and purpose-driven men together in support and solidarity of one another.

Since the beginning of time, society has pushed men toward a subtle, unique type of emotional isolation. Often, men don’t feel comfortable talking about their lives or how they feel about things that are happening. Even men who are self-aware and more open-minded have trouble sharing in this way.

This may sound like you. If so, please know that it’s no fault of your own! Men have had “don’t talk about it” beaten into their psyches for generations. So, most men go through life without ever having the opportunity to talk about what’s happening or how they feel.

This can become a problem when men face the unavoidable adversities of life, as they may realize that they don’t have many healthy outlets. This creates a lot of pressure that can eventually lead to burn out, blow up or meltdown.

Even the strongest men hit tough times and struggle to cope. You would never know because they keep it private, but it’s real. The stats show that anxiety, depression, paralysis and self-doubt plague some of our most stoic men.

Instead of that route, this movement gives men permission to meet in private where they won’t be scrutinized for being honest, emotional or supportive of one another.

Enter the men’s circle

Essentially, a men’s circle is a ritualized space where men gather to share a commitment to growth, support and transformation within a safe, confidential and constructive environment. Men are gathering here not for drinking or watching sports, but for something deeper, a quest for authenticity, connection and purpose.

Men are often taught to suppress their emotions, to embody a facade of strength and stoicism. Yet despite understanding the benefits of courage and integrity in stoicism, the vulnerability of a men’s circle allows them to discover their
deepest strengths.

The practice of conscious communication is central to the success of a men’s circle and is rooted around three fundamental guidelines:

Staying present. It requires a full shift of attention from inner and outer distractions into the circle, and everything that unfolds within the circle’s time and space. While circling, participants learn to be fully engaged in the present moment, setting aside any external distractions. This shift enables individuals to connect authentically with each other, paving the way for genuine and open communication.
Practicing active listening. Active listening transcends mere hearing: it involves a deep and empathetic understanding of the speaker’s words, emotions and perspectives. Participants are encouraged to suspend judgment and listen without any interruption. This practice not only fosters a sense of validation and respect, but also creates a space where individuals feel heard and understood, facilitating a more profound level of sharing and connection.
Promoting a space conducive to authentic sharing. Authentic sharing emphasizes the importance of establishing an environment that promotes vulnerability and trust. In men’s circles this involves fostering a sense of brotherhood, where participants feel secure and supported enough to share their experiences, challenges, breakthroughs and aspirations, without fear of criticism.

These guidelines serve as pillars in men’s circles for cultivating deep and meaningful connections among participants. They allow men to share, explore and understand their emotions, thoughts and patterns within a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

In a world that often demands conformity, gentlemen, will you dare to embark on the journey toward a life of deeper purpose and connection?

Alison Mullins is a certified holistic life and health coach, yoga therapist, sound healer and founder of Coppermoon Rising. She facilitates both men’s yoga and men’s circles in private settings and can be reached at [email protected] or www.coppermoonrising.com.