Connect at Claire’s peaceful Red Group in Hitchin for female empowerment

Claire Humphires Red Women (Image: Archant)

Claire Humphries is starting a group called Red Women – inspired by the Red Tent book and international movement – which creates a space where women can gather to create a supportive, non-judgemental community to talk about things that matter and share their stories.

Claire decided to set up the group after experiencing a circle elsewhere and found it life-changing.

She told the Comet: “I found it amazing just really being heard and accepted – there was so much love in the room for me, and with women I hardly knew.

“It was so profound I just knew I had to recreate it in Hitchin. Being in a group and meditating, dancing, moving, breathing, even though we were silent was incredible – every woman left feeling loved and energised, with the strength to go on doing whatever they do in normal life and be who we really are.”

The group features a sharing circle, so women can speak if they wish and be heard – and then there are relaxing, restorative activities available like painting, angel cards, meditation, knitting and dance.

Claire said: “Anything quiet and peaceful as falling into silence allows people to connect with themselves – essential in today’s busy world for our mental health, self-care and self-esteem.”

Claire believes so many of us are so used to being busy we don’t know how to relax, be in silence and do nothing. In our hectic lives there are also fewer chances to allow ourselves time to be alone and connect with ourselves – “particularly if we are mums or have a busy working life,” she said.

“At Red Women, we can sit and do nothing, or do something peaceful – but it feels easier because we are with others. We can start to lift the masks we wear and show our vulnerability if we wish.”

The first Red Women takes place every Sunday in Hitchin from 11am to 2pm. For more have a look at inspireaspire.co.uk/redwomen