around the fire
wild spirit women
(Page under development)
Free creative gatherings for women inspired by the idea of coming together around the fire in community. These are spaces to share, support and explore. No fixing; just connecting in a welcoming neuro-friendly environment.
Date to be arranged
Wild Spirit Woods, Congleton Edge
Open to women 18+ (trans inclusive) - 10 places
£10 (£5 low income)
All proceeds to Wild Spirit Woods
Please book - message Ali through the contact form
The first half of the circle is about using creative approaches to land with ourselves, tapping into what we're bringing into the space that day. This includes drumming and might also involve writing, movement, creative visualisation and so on, both individually and communally.
After a break, there'll be a gathering in circle around a real fire. Each woman will have a couple of minutes to share something, if she wishes. This might be something brought to the circle or that has grown out of the activity that day. It could be a poem, song, dance or artwork - or simply words that want to be expressed.
The event will be in Wild Spirit Woods' large tipi but connecting with the outdoors if weather permits. More information will be sent on booking.
What you may like to bring:
Hot drinks are provided but you are welcome to bring your own
A bite to eat
Mats, blankets, cushions to keep yourself cosy
Ear defenders, fidget toy or other accessory
Something for the decorative area at the centre of the circle
- like a stone, leaf, picture or other object
A drum, rattle or other percussion instrument
Something for the Share (see above)
Cash for payment
How it is neuro-friendly
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You contribute just by coming. There is no demand to do anything. It's all just invitation.
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Show up as you are. This is about connection, not performing - a place to take off our everyday masks.
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Do what you need to do to be comfortable. Sit at the side or take a break; lie down or sit on cushions; stand if you need to. You don't have to be still - stim if you like.
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The circle will be held in a way to encourage co-regulation. This means more of a somatic, whole-body approach where movement is welcomed. It can be better for neurodivergent nervous systems than neurotypical practices like mindfulness, meditation and breathwork.
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No hierarchy. We're all important, we all matter. These circles are about coming together to co-create. Each gathering will be a unique collaborative event.
Please feel encouraged to get in touch before or after a circle to share any needs you might have. Use the online form.
IMPORTANT: By the nature of this work, some powerful stuff may come up at times. While Ali is trained/experienced in offering emotional support and holding space, everyone is responsible for themselves during the gatherings and taking care of their own wellbeing.
about ali
I'm Ali Davenport, Manchester writer and poet. I'm offering these gatherings for free to develop my own creative practice.
As a neurodivergent person, I'm keen to play with neuro-friendly approaches. I think these are often better for everyone, allowing people to be themselves.
I was very blessed last year to find my way to Wild Spirit Woods, a magical place in my ancestral homeland. Thank you to the woods, Dawn De Vivre and Wild Spirit Woods CIC for giving us this space to play.
Come, sisters, gather in circle.
Bring a seat of your choosing
– rocking chair, rug, stool;
a throne, if you’re so inclined.
We are all queens, sovereign to ourselves.
Show up as you like; nothing is fixed.
We’re curators of this liminal space.
Sit, sisters,
around this communal fire we’ve made.
Settle yourselves.
We’ll begin.