sharing circles
Communal speaking rounds
A sharing circle is a structured group practice where participants sit in a circle and take turns speaking, often used in Indigenous traditions, therapeutic settings, schools, and community gatherings.
The circular arrangement emphasizes equality—no one sits at the head.
Typically, a talking piece passes around the circle, and only the person holding it may speak while others listen without interruption: We started the retreat with a sharing circle.
The format encourages vulnerable, honest expression in a supportive environment.
- talking stickTurn-taking ritual object
- safe spaceSupportive, threat-free environment
- indigenousOriginating in a region
- First NationsCanada's non-Inuit indigenous peoples
- healingRestoration of health
healing journey · community · community building · gathering · elders · storytelling · spoken word · ritual · sacred · peace pipe · listening · heart to heart · unity · tradition · restorative justice · group therapy · meditation · campfire
sharing circlesdebates
Formal argumentative exchanges
panel discussions · panels · lectures · interrogations · cross-examination
sharing circlesconfrontations
Direct hostile encounters
arguments · power plays · verbal sparring · one-upmanship · dominance displays
sharing circlesdictation
Oral text for writing
broadcast · directives · mandates · edicts · pronouncements
sharing, circles, share, circle, shared, shares, sharer, sharers, circled