“How might your life have been different, if, through the years, there had been a place where you could go?
A place of women, away from the ordinary busyness of life…a place of women who
knew the cycles of life, the ebb, and flow of nature, who knew of
times of work and times of quiet…who understood your tiredness and need for rest.
A place of women who could help you to accept your fatigue and trust your limitations, and to know,
in the dark of winter, that your energy would return, as surely as the spring.
Women who could help you learn to light a candle and to wait…
How might your life be different? “
– Judith Duerk from Circle of Stones
Alone and in community, we reflect and transform our understanding and perspective and set a new course.
January 2021, we were in the throes of the pandemic, seeking new ways to connect and be part of a supportive community.
I wished to create a safe and comfortable space where women would gather to rest, connect, and listen to their inner voice, needs,
desires, and each other…attentively, lovingly, and with care. The gatherings were inspired by that desire.
I am deeply grateful for the women who have joined in month after month, open and honest, wise and utterly supportive.
Over the last three years, our circle of women has continued to expand and strengthen.
We have continued to show up, walking at our own pace, inspiring one another, and letting our insights unfold.
We are now standing at the threshold of a new cycle, looking ahead. A new beginning awaits for us to unlock its potential.
As in previous years, there will be a theme to guide us through the year.
This year, we will explore and reflect upon the power of words and how they serve our lives.
Join when you can. Come as you are.
Bring your dilemmas, questions, and challenges.
Prepare by choosing a quiet space to sit or lie down.
Don’t forget your favorite blanket and a pillow.
Plan for quiet, uninterrupted time.
Make a cup of your favorite tea, and have a glass of water,
your journal, and a pen nearby.
Light a candle.
During our time together, we will
Draw inspiration from one another, nature, books, and poetry.
Meditate, reflect, journal, and engage in meaningful conversation.
Be present and listen deeply to ourselves and one another.
Honor the seasons of our lives and find purpose and clarity amid change and uncertainty.
First Monday of the month
(except when the 1st Monday of the month falls on a major holiday)
07:00 – 09:00 PM EST via Zoom
$25 per session
Payment is accepted via Venmo @Yota-Schneider or PayPal.
Invitations to the gatherings are sent out once monthly.
Would you like to receive invitations and updates?
Use the form below to join my mailing list.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Our Monthly Gatherings are one of the safest spaces I have ever known. Our community of women is one of the most supportive I have ever been a part of. Even during my first gathering, I remember feeling so welcomed that being vulnerable seemed like the only option. No matter what, these women would never judge me for being myself or being truthful about what I experienced during our meditations. No matter the prompt, we usually end up sharing things that are somehow all connected. We may take different things from our gatherings and always bring different things to them, but somehow, these things are still connected. We may not realize it that night, the next gathering, or even six months from then, but somewhere down the line, we connect these dots on our journeys and realize we’re shaping each other even if we don’t know it at the time. Spending time with Yota and the group is one of my favorite ways to carve out time for myself. You have all helped me grow, change, and find my way on this journey I’ve been on, and I am forever grateful.
Sarah – Young Mother
“Over the years, I’ve been involved in any number of meditation groups, healing circles, writing groups, and discussion groups. But the monthly gatherings are truly unique. We discuss deeply thoughtful readings, meditate, explore our creativity, and share our responses. I’ve never felt so supported. The laughter and joy of being together to reflect on our journeys is a gift that comes from Yota’s deep understanding of the power that happens when women come together. She guides the group from a wellspring of experience and wisdom based on many years of work on her own spiritual path. Ηer respect and compassion for the lives we lead are the foundation. I feel so much stronger and more confident in facing the challenges in my life, knowing I’m part of a community of amazing women.”
Kathleen – Writer
“Yota’s retreats are remarkable in how she guides, encourages, and creates a safe, gentle space to meditate, write, and share. Her wisdom, creativity, and calm presence help me think more deeply, grow, and experience many emotions. I treasure these monthly retreats with Yota and the amazing group of women she gathers.”
Linda – Professional Organizer, Author, Speaker
“Our monthly gatherings give me the opportunity to quietly reflect and experience my mind and body being in sync. I feel as if I am sitting by a warm fire with a group of delightfully insightful women. Yota shares perfect readings that inspire reflection. She guides us into meditation and facilitates powerful discussions. We laugh, cry, and wonder together. It warms my heart and feeds my soul.”
Kathy – Retired Teacher, Active Learner
“I look forward to our monthly gatherings with anticipation; it’s a chance to be reflective, be with these wonderful women, and be guided by Yota’s special touch for bringing us to a calm and safe place to grow and flourish. The most amazing aspect is that every monthly gathering allows each of us to explore our own individual destinies – together – with great meaning and clarity.”
Kim – Non-Profit Director, Outdoor Wanderer
“When you regain a sense of your life as a journey of discovery, you return to rhythm with yourself.
When you take the time to travel with reverence, a richer life unfolds before you.
Moments of beauty begin to braid your days.“
John O’Donohue – Excerpt from BEAUTY