Embracing Simplicity: Leading from Within
The Simplicity Living Circle of Northern Virginia met on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:30 PM ET, drawing an impressive 17 participants. Despite an unexpectedly brisk wind chill of 35 degrees—quite a contrast to the warmth earlier in the day—the group gathered with enthusiasm, embodying the resilience needed to embrace the ever-changing seasons. The meeting, taking place just ahead of Ostara—the Spring Equinox—naturally reflected the themes of renewal, balance, and transition.
As always, the Simplicity Living Circle fosters a unique and empowering community of individuals who seek to live a simpler, more intentional life. With participant-led discussions at its core, the group offers a space for shared wisdom, deep reflection, and meaningful connections.
Embracing Change in Nature and Life
Though a fire ban remains in place until April 30, the chilly and gusty weather did not deter the group’s spirit. Instead, it provided an apt metaphor for the turbulence that often accompanies seasonal and personal transitions. Rather than retreating indoors, members leaned into the experience, demonstrating the beauty of embracing discomfort as a path toward growth.
"Speed Dating" for Simplicity Living
One of our most engaged members, Mamadou, led the group in an energizing and insightful activity: three rounds of “speed dating” conversations centered on simplicity living. Participants formed two lines, facing each other, and engaged in rapid, three-minute discussions before rotating to a new partner for each round.
Round 1: What does simplicity living mean to you?
Round 2: Share one thing you have successfully made simpler in your life.
Round 3: Share one thing you want to change but find difficult to simplify.
This structured, time-bound exercise encouraged participants to articulate their thoughts concisely while also exposing them to a variety of perspectives. Many found it a refreshing way to reflect on their journey while gaining inspiration from others. Following the three rounds, the group came together for a larger discussion, sharing key takeaways and nuggets of wisdom. Among them were:
“Go where you're celebrated, not where you're tolerated.”
“Focus on what you can change within yourself, rather than external circumstances beyond your control.”
“Simplicity isn't about having less, but about making space for what truly matters.”
“Letting go is not losing; it is making room for new beginnings.”
“The more you own, the more it owns you—choose wisely.”
The Healing Power of Nature: Shinrin-Yoku
Mike facilitated the discussion on and experience of forest bathing and its benefits.
After the invigorating discussions, Mike, another highly engaged member experienced in forest bathing led the group in breathwork exercises, guiding everyone toward a calmer, more centered state before introducing the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing.
Originating in Japan in the 1980s, Shinrin-Yoku translates to “taking in the forest atmosphere.” It is a mindfulness practice that encourages deep engagement with nature through all the senses. Unlike traditional hiking or walking, forest bathing emphasizes slowing down, breathing deeply, and noticing the details of the natural world—textures, sounds, scents, and the feeling of the earth beneath one’s feet. Studies have shown that this practice can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost overall well-being.
Following Mike’s introduction, participants embarked on a quiet, mindful walk through the woods. The wind, once seen as an obstacle, became part of the experience, weaving through the trees with an almost tangible presence. Many felt a deep sense of grounding and empowerment as they moved through the landscape, reflecting on the parallels between nature’s cycles and their own personal journeys.
After the walk, another round of breathwork allowed participants to integrate their experiences before sharing their reflections. Some noted a renewed sense of connection with the natural world, while others expressed gratitude for the opportunity to simply be present without distractions.
Closing Reflection & Community Connection
To conclude the meeting, Nikki led a gentle, reflective meditation, encouraging participants to set intentions for the coming weeks as Ostara and the Spring Equinox approached. This time of year calls for balance—between light and dark, action and rest, holding on and letting go. As the session came to a close, participants lingered, continuing conversations and deepening their connections with one another.
The March gathering of the Simplicity Living Circle was a profound reminder that simplicity is not just about decluttering physical spaces, but about creating room for presence, connection, and alignment with nature’s rhythms. As we move toward the Equinox, we carry with us the lessons of the wind and trees—flexibility, resilience, and the quiet strength found in stillness.
Leading from Within
Dani and Nikki created this group as a means for people to connect with one another and learn more about simplicity living. The power and wisdom come not from them, but from each individual within the group who brings unique insights, knowledge, and experiences. It is through this sharing that true connections are formed, allowing us all to grow and deepen our understanding of simplicity living and each other.
The vision for this group is to be a leader-full circle—one that is not dependent on any one person but instead thrives through the collective participation of its members. Each person has the opportunity to step forward, contribute, and help shape the community they wish to see and experience.
To foster this participatory leadership, the group is seeking volunteers to lead each month. Meetings generally follow this structure:
Agenda:
4:00 - 4:15 PM: Introductions – Name and what brought you here
4:15 - 4:30 PM: Lead Share – Rotating leader (e.g., Mamadou)
4:30 - 4:50 PM: Group Discussion on the selected topic
4:50 - 5:00 PM: Surrender/Invite Ritual – Group participation
5:00 - 5:15 PM: Forest Bathing / Mindful Walking
5:15 - 5:25 PM: Closing Meditation
5:25 - 5:30 PM: Announcements and upcoming events led by members
By ensuring that leadership is shared, the Simplicity Living Circle remains a vibrant, evolving space that reflects the needs and desires of all who participate. Whether leading a discussion, facilitating an exercise, or simply showing up with an open heart, every member plays a role in making this community meaningful and impactful.
If you would like to lead in April, please message Dani via Meetup.
Namaste