MEN's CIRCLES ~ Man Academy
Why:
To share and be heard / witnessed / seen. One of the worst Men’s Myths is that we have to ‘do it on our own’, the 'lone wolf' / 'lone warrior'.
Great side effect is developing communication and emotional skills (see testimonial).
Learn from your brother’s experiences.
Understand that we are not unique in our current and past situations.
What:
I have been trained in running Men’s Circles by Kenny (one of my mentors) who started men's circles in the UK 23+ years ago. I have been running circles since 2021 and coaching men since 2020.
I have really benefited from attending Circles, as have many other men.
The main aim is to be honest and real, to drop the masks we all wear, which is an ongoing process.
“Closed group” means it will be the same men every time, so we get to know each other and have a ‘safer space’. If new people are added, it will be agreed (or not) by everyone in the group, after a trial session or two. Each ‘term’ lasts 6 months and you’ll be asked to commit to this. Each group has a private online ‘chat’, for announcements and to use if you like. The group can organise social events.
Numbers - will be around 6-8 men, so if one or two don’t attend sometimes (life happens), will still be a fair size group.
Powerful 3.5 min animation about Men's Circles, what they are and the benefits for men. Is another video (with humans): HERE.
How it works in practice:
Sit in circle
- Short check-in round (what’s present for you now)
- A number of longer (and short) rounds with the theme that pops up
- It's always OK to “pass” if you don’t want to share at that time
When + Where:
LONDON (St Paul's) 2nd Tues of the month 10:30 - 13:00
LEWES (High St) Every other Sunday 10:00 - 12:30
BRIGHTON (Brunswick) 2nd and 4th Wednesday 19:00 - 21:30
ONLINE 4th Sunday of the month 19:30 - 21:30
(click the links for Meetup groups with details)
Money:
Term / Block of 6 sessions. Charged per term.
Sliding Scale ~ Details (see if you are A, B or C) HERE
A - Abundant, £37 per session = £222 per term
B - Basic, £20 per session = £120 per term
C - Concession, £12 per session = £72 per term
NB - Your first session is a gift, as a taster to see if it works for all parties.
Ground Rules - IMPORTANT: HERE (You need to agree before being invited to join).
Want to know more? If you’ve got questions, I’m happy to chat.
Either way we need to talk before you start, in order to see if it's a good fit, to get to know each other and to answer any questions you have.
NB - No experience of ‘men’s work’ needed - This is not therapy
I am looking forward to growing with you.
In Your Service ~ For Your Empowerment 🙏🏽❤️
Merlin / Man Academy
TESTIMONIALS:
“Merlin's men's circles have served as a regular touchpoint for connecting with other men and discussing common topics that we all experience from our own unique and varied perspectives. Over time, I've found that doing the circles with the same group each month has created a safe space for me to open up progressively more in each session as we've got to know and become more comfortable with each other, in terms of being vulnerable and talking openly about my feelings, emotions and personal points of view with the other men. Regularly speaking freely in this way has benefited me by allowing me to express my emotional state and release stuck emotions, giving me a structure within which to look inside, reflect on what I'm feeling and put it into words, which is helpful in my journey of processing the emotions I feel and coming to terms with my emotional life - something that, especially as a man, has often been discouraged at various stages, and in various ways, through my life. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity, Merlin!”
Sam, 39
"Prior to taking part in Merlin’s men's circle for the first time, I was feeling isolated and withdrawn from the effects of lockdown. In the group, we discuss topics that can range from light to serious, depending on the overall direction of the conversation. It is an invaluable opportunity for all who take part to have their voices heard, talking as much or as little as is desired on subjects that matter on a personal level. These opportunities to express my feelings has drawn me out of a shell that I had not realised I was in. The effect of the group interaction under Merlin's supportive methodology is having a lasting impact on several areas of my life, improving my mood and enhancing my ability to translate ideas into actions for the benefit of others. As a result, interactions with other people have improved, and my involvement in the local community has also begun to blossom. I feel fortunate and blessed to have been given the opportunity to take part. Thank you Merlin!"
Dave, 55
"I have worked with Merlin in two of his Men's groups and feel I have had a good opportunity to appreciate his qualities. He inspires confidence with his gentle, empathetic presence and has the sensitivity to step in and lead men to reveal themselves and fulfil their self-development needs. He is clearly widely read and experienced in a variety of mind and body therapies which encouraged me to trust in his ability to be helpful. Equally important is that he shares himself and his own struggles in the process. I recommend him with confidence."
Geoff Pullen, Ex Senior Lecturer, Brighton University
"I found Man.Academy to be a warm and welcoming space to explore my life and my place in society. Merlin is an excellent host - his honesty and compassion are an inspiration, and in his company and that of the group I learnt much more about myself than I expected."
Barney, 48, senior software developer
"Thanks for the session. I felt much more comfortable in that situation than I imagined I would and can see possibilities for me getting quite a lot out of the group in time. It felt safe, very welcoming and positive, albeit with us all experiencing challenges in our lives. I am also interested in the course you are setting up and will be keeping an eye out for further information. Thank you for your compassion and support."
GP, 60, Researcher (feedback after his first Circle)