1. Honoring Our Differences
We welcome the richness each woman brings—her story, her roots, her beliefs. Disrespect, judgment, or exclusion of any kind has no place in this space.

 

2. Sacred Sharing, Held in Confidence
What is spoken in the circle stays in the circle. We honor the vulnerability and truth of every voice, holding each other’s stories with tenderness and confidentiality.

 

3. Speak with Intention, Listen with Presence
We practice mindful communication—listening fully, speaking from the heart, and refraining from interrupting, advising, or gossiping. Silence, too, is a form of presence.

 

4. Boundaries Are Sacred
Participation is always an invitation, never an expectation. Each woman is free to engage, step back, or simply witness. We trust in each other’s knowing of what feels right.

 

5. Self-Responsibility as Empowerment
This gathering is not a place for fixing others—it’s a place for meeting ourselves. We take responsibility for our emotions, triggers, and personal journeys.

 

6. A Substance-Free Space
To support clarity, safety, and emotional presence, we ask that all participants refrain from using alcohol, drugs, or smoking during the gathering.

 

7. Caring for the Shared Space
We treat the land, our gathering spaces, and one another with reverence. Tending to our environment is part of tending to ourselves.

 

8. Respecting Flow and Facilitation
Out of respect for the collective rhythm, we honor the timing of shared sessions and the efforts of facilitators. Punctuality supports presence and cohesion.

 

9. Embracing Quiet and Reflection
There may be moments of intentional silence woven into the gathering. These are sacred pauses to listen inward and be fully present—with ourselves and each other.

 

10. Tuning into Well-being
Please inform us in advance of any health or dietary needs. We encourage you to listen to your body and speak up if you need support at any time.

 

11. Gratitude, Curiosity, and Play
Come as you are—with an open heart, a willingness to unlearn, and a spirit of gentleness. Let there be laughter, slowness, and joy in the becoming.

 

12. If Boundaries Are Broken

If actions compromise the safety or harmony of the gathering, they will be addressed with clarity and care. In rare cases, we may ask a participant to step away to protect the sanctity of the space.

 

This is a shared commitment—to hold ourselves and each other with honesty, softness, and respect, so OVA remains a space of truth, connection, and quiet transformation.