Men's Circle: Authentic Conversations

Men’s Circle: Authentic Conversations

In a world where men are often expected to have everything figured out, this gathering offers a space to be genuine, not perfect.

This is a free event, with an optional plant-based dinner available for $15. While there’s no obligation to stay for dinner, sharing a meal together offers a meaningful way to strengthen connections. Andre and Sri Jiva co-host this circle with a shared passion for creating authentic, supportive spaces where men can connect deeply—offering this gathering simply because they believe in its importance.

The Men’s Circle provides a safe and nurturing environment where men can share openly, express their feelings, and encourage personal growth—free from societal pressures to be stoic or self-reliant. Through honest sharing and collective support, participants build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and strengthen their sense of identity and purpose.

Structure of the Circle

• Gathering in a Circle: Participants sit in a circle to symbolize equality and unity.
• A short meditation or moment of silence may be included to help everyone arrive and connect.
• Talking Object: A sharing stick or object is placed in the center. Only the person holding the object may speak, ensuring uninterrupted sharing.
• Open Sharing: Anyone may choose to share while holding the object. Sharing is optional, and passing is always respected.
• Active Listening: While one person shares, others listen attentively without speaking, interrupting, or offering advice. The focus is on witnessing and being present.
• No Judgments or Advice: Participants refrain from judging or offering unsolicited advice, creating a safe space for authentic expression.
• Closing: The circle may conclude with a group reflection, a moment of gratitude, or a simple acknowledgment of the shared experience.

Circle Agreements

• Supportive Environment: We are here to uplift and support one another, fostering trust and brotherhood.
• Focus on the Present: Share what's alive for you now, focusing on your emotions and experiences to deepen emotional awareness.
• Use "I" Statements: Speak from your personal perspective using "I" statements to promote authenticity and responsibility. Avoid generalizations like "we" or "us."
• No Judgment or fixing: Refrain from judging others sharing or offering unsolicited advice, ensuring a safe and non-critical space.
• Confidentiality: What is shared in the circle stays in the circle. You may discuss your own experience outside the group, but keep others' details private.

Meet Andre and Sri Jiva, your hosts

Andre has been immersed in men’s work since the age of 13, when he first experienced a rite of passage in Golden Bay. That formative experience sparked a lifelong connection to circle work, which he later deepened by returning as a mentor. A multi-instrumental musician, poet, and pranayama (breathwork) facilitator, Andre also brings his passion for ecstatic dance, philosophy, and authentic connection into his offerings. He is deeply inspired by the question of what it means to be human—how we can more fully experience our aliveness, our depth, and reconnecting with the beauty of life together.

Since childhood, Sri Jiva has been fascinated by meaning, purpose, and authentic life fulfilment. This, among other things, led him to join a monastery at the age of 19. After years of monastic training, he chose to marry and pursue a career. He felt called to use his monastic experience to help others understand themselves, and to find wisdom, meaning, and purpose in their own lives. Inspired by this calling, he went to university to study counselling. Now, Sri Jiva and his wife live near Wellington, where he works with a small team of counsellors, supporting clients individually and in groups.

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Host or Publisher Bhakti Lounge Wellington