Winter Solstice Circle
Join our Winter Solstice Meet Up
Connect with likeminded quieteers at a Winter Solstice Circle gathering at Snapdragons, Victoria Park (Plymouth) on Saturday 20 December at 3pm to 5:15pm.
Although this event is open to the wider community, it is limited to 12 spaces and will be facilitated by quieteer Ellie, with quieteers and gentle connection very much in mind. This Pop-Up Meet Up offers the chance to take part in something you might not normally try, in a calm and supportive environment that feels authentic to your true quiet self. It’s a safe space to explore something meaningful, gently stretch your comfort zone, and connect with others who truly understand.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
Your Meet Up Connectors
Ellie Zalick
Connector
Ellie Zalick
Hi, I’m Ellie.
I consider myself an introvert and have experienced anxiety around social situations since I was seven. I feel like people often made assumptions about me. Some mistook my silence as rude and didn’t give me the space and time I needed to speak; others found it uncomfortable and labelled me as ‘weird’. Some thought it made me weak and an easy target for bullying; and others assumed I lacked confidence. And for a while I accepted these things, feeling I was socially inept, dysfunctional and believing I had to learn to be loud to be confident. But over time, I have learnt this isn’t true. I can be quietly confident, I can thrive in conversations when given the space and time I need, and I can challenge people’s perceptions of quiet. It is important to me that quieter people have a space where they can connect with likeminded people; where they feel accepted for who they are and comfortable in their own quiet skin.
What to expect
We’ll be gathering around the fire in the beautiful community space of Snapdragons, honouring the Winter Solstice–the shortest day and longest night of the year. Together, we’ll take time to reflect on the year that’s passed, share stories, and gently set intentions for the one ahead.
This gathering uses a Circle practice, where a talking piece is passed around the circle and each person is invited to speak from the heart. As always, there is absolutely no pressure to speak. You can simply sit with the talking piece for a moment and reflect, or pass it on when you’re ready. Everything is an invitation, never an expectation.
“I find that this physical invitation allows me to contribute more than I might otherwise as it feels like there is a very clear space for me to share if I want to. I don’t have to wait for a gap or actively do anything to have a turn.” – Ellie, quieteer
You can expect a peaceful, grounding atmosphere where your presence is enough. Hot drinks will be shared around the fire, and you’re welcome to simply settle in, enjoy the fire light, and connect in whatever way feels right for you.
Please note this event will, weather allowing, take place outside so please bring:
- Warm clothing and layers
- A blanket or cushion to sit on
- Anything else you need to keep warm
All are welcome—no particular beliefs are needed, just a willingness to connect with others and the natural world around us.
Where to find us
Snapdragons Plymouth
Victoria Park, Plymouth, PL1 5NJ
Google Map | Street View | What3Words:///brings.reveal.castle
Getting here
- By car: The nearest car park is Stuart Road Car Park, a 289 ft walk from Victoria Park. On-street parking is also available on Stuart Road.
- By train: Plymouth Railway Station is around a 10-minute walk (approximately 0.5 miles).
- By bus: Buses stopping near Stuart Road or North Road West are closest to the park (a few minutes’ walk).
If you would like any more detailed information about getting to this pop-up Meet Up, you can message eleanor@quietconnections.co.uk.
This is a free event, fully funded by the #iwill Fund (see Eventbrite for details)
Pre-booking is required via Eventbrite to secure your space and spaces are limited to 12. A refundable £5 deposit will hold your place and will be returned to you after the event.
If the deposit or travel costs are a barrier, please contact the Ellie—support may be available.
Once you've booked, please let us know you'll be joining us using this form, so that we know to expect you.
One of us will meet you at the gate at the bottom of Victoria park where you’ll be led into the venue. One of us will be waiting to greet you at the fire.
One of us will meet you at the bottom gate of Victoria Park, where you’ll be gently welcomed and guided to the fire. Another friendly face will be waiting at the circle to greet you and help you settle in.
This video shows you how to get from Stuart Road Car Park to the gate.