The Magic of Women’s Circles – An Ancient Healing Practice

Women journeying into the depths of their soul

The department of Cauca is one of the most ethnically diverse regions in Colombia. Over 25% of its population belongs to Indigenous communities (DANE, 2018). Today, it has become an exceptional destination for ethnic and cultural tourism. It was in Popayán where I had the opportunity to live a deeply transformative experience.

Longing to travel inward, I reached out to Sofía, a wonderful woman and founder of Sahual Tours, an initiative that promotes wellness tourism and creates spaces for inner reconnection, especially designed for women. Through her, I was introduced to my first women’s circle — an ancestral practice present in cultures across the world. For centuries, women have gathered around fire, words, and silence. In Cauca, that tradition is still alive and rich with meaning.

A small group of women gathered in a peaceful setting, surrounded by nature, silence, and feminine energy. We were guided by three wise and loving women who led us through a journey that included moments of body awareness, meditation, dance, readings, breathing exercises, massages, and — most importantly — space for sharing and deep listening.

The most valuable part of this gathering was the feeling of being a tribe. Women of different ages, professions, and life stories, united by a shared desire: to heal, to understand ourselves, to release. Hearing testimonies from women who had experienced different forms of violence was deeply painful; and yet, I understood that my presence and my listening were a part of their healing process. Simply being there and holding space has immeasurable power.

In a male-dominated society — where we women are often unable to fully embrace our femininity, where social and personal pressures weigh on us constantly, and where everything moves so fast — women’s circles become a sacred spiritual and emotional refuge. It is a living, ancestral practice present in many cultures, reminding us how powerful we are when we come together in sisterhood and respect.

This gathering marked a before and after. It was medicine for my body, but even more for my soul. It offered me answers — but also essential questions. It helped me reconcile with myself and with my ancestral lineage. It filled me with love and reminded me: we are not alone.

If you are a woman, I invite you to experience this for yourself. You don’t need anything except the willingness to listen to yourself and open your heart. Believe me — you’ll be amazed by what you can discover within.

Stefania Burbano