"Shame dies when stories are told in safe places". - Anne Voscam

Hi, my name is Kelsey, and back in 2017 I had an abortion. I had a positive experience, but in the months that followed I struggled to integrate the thoughts and feelings that came up. So, I started to look for and read as many abortion stories as I could! I found so many of them were based in the USA, and so at the end of 2021 I created the Australian Abortion Stories podcast, to create a space for more Australian voices and stories to be heard. I have gotten so much out of listening to these stories, and the feedback has been that so many of you have too!

As part of my post-abortion integration journey, I engaged in lots of ritual, counselling, journalling and spoke a lot about my experience. One of the most important things I did was speak about my abortion experience in a womens circle, and I want to provide a space for you to do that too, with even more intention. Just like the quote at the start speaks to, there is so much magic and medicine in speaking about your own experience, and in hearing others talk about theirs.

** who is this for? what will we do? **
This is for women/folk who have had an abortion, for whatever reason. You are all welcome here. Even if you've never been to a women's circle, you are welcome here! Even if I've interviewed you before, you're welcome! Come join us.

If you feel called, come and join me and a small group of women/folk (5-6 max) to come together, engage in some simple rituals, a guided meditation or two, and some journalling, before having a sharing circle for you to share as little or as much about your abortion journey as you want to. I will provide some guiding questions for you to speak to as well. If you want to come and not speak at all, that is also totally fine, you are welcome to come and simply be held by the circle.

** important disclaimer - please read through **
This is not for those that have very recently had an abortion - better for at least 6-8 weeks to have passed to 'let the dust settle' a bit, as they say. Likewise, if your story or experience was quite traumatic, and you haven't spoken with a trusted professional or processed that first at least a little, then please do that.

This circle is not intended to replace therapy. I want you, and everyone in this circle, to be very safe and held in your processes. On that note, as is often the case with women's work, there may be mention of abuse, trauma, poor mental health etc in the sharing circle, so please check in with yourself before booking if that is something that could be too much for you right now.

If you've read all of that and are still feeling keen, then GREAT! Read on. If you're feeling unsure, take some time to think about it, or contact me to chat further.

** contact details **

Instagram: australianabortionstories
Email: australianabortionstories@gmail.com
Phone: 0422 298 521

**to bring **

pillow to sit on
yoga mat
water bottle
blanket if you wish
journal and pen
something small to contribute to the altar if you wish - this could be something seasonal (ie flowers, leaves, feathers etc) or something personal to you and your abortion experience (ie ultrasound, letter etc). You will take this home with you at the end.
most importantly - an open heart and a respectful attitude

** when and where **

Will be Sunday arvo, March 5th 2023,
From 2pm - 4.30/5pm - please arrive 1.50pm for a 2pm start.

FYI the venue is in Belair at the top of a small hill, so unfortunately it is not wheelchair accessible.
I will send you an email the Friday before with the address and details about how to access the studio etc.

** other bits and bobs **

Wear comfortable clothing that makes you feel good! In the meantime, start thinking or journalling about your experience, and think about what you want to get out of the circle. I look forward to sitting with you soon!

Lots of love,
Kelsey

Contact the host of After Abortion: Women's Circle

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