Qigong
2024-09-05 18:30 - 19:30, 2024-10-10 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join us for an invigorating journey into the ancient art of Qigong, a practice that combines gentle movements, controlled breathing, and meditation to promote holistic well-being and balance.
In these classes, you will learn the fundamental principles of Qigong and its potential benefits for physical, mental, and emotional health.

When: Weekly classes – Thursdays @ 6:30pm, 60 minutes
Attire: Comfortable clothing and flat-soled shoes
Teachers: Jesse Meyer & Morgan Engels

Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve physical health, or enhance your overall well-being, our Qigong classes offer a holistic approach to self-care and personal growth. Come join us and discover the transformative power of Qigong.
Mindful Movement: Experience a series of slow and flowing movements designed to increase energy flow, flexibility, and vitality.
Breath Awareness: Discover the power of conscious breathing techniques to enhance relaxation, reduce stress, and boost your body’s natural healing abilities.
Meditation: Learn to calm the mind and cultivate inner peace through guided meditation exercises that promote mental clarity and emotional harmony.
Qi Activation: Explore the concept of Qi (life force energy) and how it influences your overall health and vitality.
Suitable for All Levels: This class is suitable for beginners and those with prior experience in Qigong. Modifications will be offered to accommodate individual needs and abilities.
Community and Connection: Connect with like-minded individuals and foster a sense of community while on your journey to better health.

Yoga in the Park
2024-09-22 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-09-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Morgan Park in Bay View, 3400 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, 53207, United States
Join 8 Branches, Friends of Morgan Park and Healium Hot Yoga for FREE Yoga in the Park on Sundays at Morgan Park starting June 2 – September 29 at 10:00am. Bring your mat or a blanket to ground yourself upon the grass. No props needed.
Dates: Sundays in the Summer, June 2 – September 29
Time: 10:00am

Seasonal Alignment Circle
2024-09-23 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-12-02 19:00 - 20:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Aligning with the seasons brings awareness of time space and the cycles within cycles. As beings of heaven and earth, we are each a microcosm of the macrocosm. Return to self- to center- and you will remember your true, heavenly nature.
Join us for our monthly discussions, as we explore our experiences with the seasonal nodes and practice being in relationship with time and space. Let’s learn together and share the many ways to apply this guidance into our personal and/or clinical practice. Our topics will center around the energetic timing and movement of each period, wisdom application, herbs/teas, food therapy, daoyin, spinal meditation and qigong movements specific to each seasonal node/solar term.
Join Sheri in person at 7pmCT at The Center @ 8 Branches. We will explore the energetics, emotions, sleep, food, self care practices and guidance for living in alignment.

** Virtual options for East Asian Traditional Medicine practitioners:
Learn with Sheri Lee and Claudia Citkovitz virtually from anywhere at 11amCT/12pmET via the White Pine Circle and the Seasonal Alignment Discussion Group.

Yin Yang 101
2024-09-25 18:00 - 19:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
We’ve all seen the black and white swirl icon and have been told it symbolizes “balance.” There are four amazing principles that compose and confirm how balance is created and expressed. These principles hold true in all of nature.
This discussion will be led by Claire Kroenke, acupuncturist at 8 Branches, whose approach is rooted in the desire to explore and share our stunning and humbling place in Creation. The lessons shared will leave you feeling a new sense of curiosity and peace with the world around you and within you.
When: September 25, 6:00-7:00PM
Exchange: Tickets are $20. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Bay View Gallery Night
2024-09-27 16:00 - 20:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
The Center invites you to join us for a special and delightful evening of sensory immersion on Friday, September 27th, from 4-8:00 PM. This special event will feature nature-based paintings by Patricia Baker Ellis as well as star sign video animations by Emily Downes. Experience the harmony and resonance of the season, including tea tasting and a unique sound experience by Abby of Resonant Heart.
Both The Clinic and The Center at 8 Branches will be open for you to fully engage your senses and connect with the essence of autumn. For more details, visit: https://bvgn.org/
We look forward to seeing you there!

Seasonal Alignment Circle
2024-10-07 19:00 - 20:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Aligning with the seasons brings awareness of time space and the cycles within cycles. As beings of heaven and earth, we are each a microcosm of the macrocosm. Return to self- to center- and you will remember your true, heavenly nature.
Join us for our monthly discussions, as we explore our experiences with the seasonal nodes and practice being in relationship with time and space. Let’s learn together and share the many ways to apply this guidance into our personal and/or clinical practice. Our topics will center around the energetic timing and movement of each period, wisdom application, herbs/teas, food therapy, daoyin, spinal meditation and qigong movements specific to each seasonal node/solar term.
Join Sheri in person at 7pmCT at The Center @ 8 Branches. We will explore the energetics, emotions, sleep, food, self care practices and guidance for living in alignment.

** Virtual options for Traditional East Asian Medicine practitioners through the White Pine Institute. You can join the White Pine Community for free or become a paying member, here: https://www.whitepinecommunity.org/welcome
Learn with Sheri Lee and Claudia Citkovitz virtually from anywhere on the First Monday of each month at 11amCT/12pmET via the Seasonal Alignment Discussion Group Events.

Steeped in Peace: a tranquil time to gather with tea
2024-10-08 12:00 - 15:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join The Center at 8 Branches and enjoy the slow pace of a day – write, read, reflect, make art or have your work day in a new way – find a comfy corner to feel inspired or to rest on floor cushions, yoga mats, blankets, or at a low community table. A variety of herbal tea blends custom made in house according to the season will be provided.
Wifi code provided when you arrive. The Center encourages a calm and quiet environment – light music will be playing, but please refrain from video, phone calls and loud chatting.
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Contribution: $24 to secure a spot – this covers wifi access and tea. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Children's Sound & Mindfulness Offering
2024-10-13 10:00 - 11:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join Abby of Resonant Heart for a 60-minute guided exploration through sound, mindfulness, and meditation designed for young minds. Throughout our time together, your children will engage in a relaxing and sensory-friendly experience in which we cultivate presence and awareness within. Following the meditation and sound offering, the children will get the chance to touch and explore the instruments used.
There will be seats available for parents in the space, though the children will be encouraged to sit and/or lie down on mats. This is a sensory-friendly experience – please feel free to bring whatever will make your child most comfortable (pillows, blankets, etc).
Seats are limited to 5 for our first experience, and while we welcome all ages, please use your best discretion.
When: Sunday, October 13, 10:00-11:00 AM
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Payment: Tickets are $25 and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
Sign up to reserve your spot here.
We look forward to seeing you there! Please reach out to Abby with any questions at resonant.heart.mke@gmail.com

Birth Trauma Support Circle
2024-10-13 12:00 - 14:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Our experiences during birth impact us for the rest of our lives. The Birth Trauma Support Circle provides a compassionate and supportive space for individuals to process the emotional challenges of a difficult birth experience. Katy Kujala-Korpela, a licensed professional counselor in-training (LPC-IT) facilitates discussions with a trauma-sensitive approach, encouraging healing through shared stories, fostering healing through reflection and shared understanding. The circle will be open monthly and you are welcome to attend as much or as little as you find supportive.
Children are welcome to attend meetings. However, it is also understood that processing traumatic births can be difficult with older children present. If accessible, please take this space for yourself. No one will be turned away.
Minimum suggested contribution: $10-15. To make a contribution for this offering, please find the PayPal link directly on the Katy Kujala-Korpela’s site: https://www.spectrumofgrowthcounseling.com/group-therapy-offerings
About the facilitator: Katy is a licensed professional counselor in-training (LPC-IT), who has been facilitating birth trauma support groups through the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) for almost 10 years. Her approach to therapy is integrative and community-centered with a queer and neuro-affirming lens.
She has completed a variety of trainings including:

Birth Inclusivity Training Series (B.I.T.S.)
Perinatal Bereavement
Gottman Therapy Couples Therapy
Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy Training
Advanced Postpartum Support International’s advanced training to the Perinatal Mental Health Certificate (PMH-C).

Facing Your Fears: A Sound Integration & Reset Group
2024-10-21 18:00 - 19:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join Abby, a Music Therapist and Peter Hess Sound Massage Practitioner, of Resonant Heart for a gentle guided experience through music, sound, vibration, meditation, and self as we remember that we are always supported when we embrace the unknown. (There is nothing to fear!)
When: Monday, October 21, 6:00-7:30pm
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Payment: Tickets are $35-50 sliding scale and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
Sign up to reserve your spot here.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Creative Circle
2024-10-27 14:00 - 15:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Creative Circle is a monthly gathering dedicated to showing up for ourselves – a precious time to experiment, play and engage in art making. During each workshop, we will explore the energetic properties of a flower or plant and consider how these apply to the seasons as well as our approaches to making art.
Chrysanthemum – A flower revered for its beauty and precisely ordered petal unfolding, the chrysanthemum reminds us of our natural potential for shifting – releasing – replenishing. Peeling back layers upon layers in order to start anew, we take note of what is not serving us anymore, acknowledging the letting go process so that we can make space for new.
In this workshop, we will embrace transformation and renewal by creating an 8×8″ collage picture, using a variety of paper materials. All materials provided – if you have something you would like to include, feel free to bring it along!
When: Sunday, October 27, 2:00-3:30pm
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Capacity: 10
Contribution: $20. Registration closes 24 hrs prior to the session with a minimum of 4 registrants. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event gets cancelled by the host.

We look forward to seeing you!

About the workshop facilitator:
Emily Downes is a Milwaukee-based artist whose creative practice involves multimedia modes of making, including video, animation, photography, music, painting, sewing and puppetry. Her creations are deeply rooted in the personal and inspired by her curiosity in symbols and synchronicities that arise in places, conversations, memories, and dreams. Fascinated by the art and universality of storytelling, she engages in the notion that broader connections can be made from sharing personal experiences. For Emily, making art comes full circle when engaged with community, as she is most passionate for sharing her talents with all ages while collaborating with local artists to build a strong and vibrant community.

Femme Dance
2024-10-27 17:00 - 18:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join Sam for a family-friendly dance class to Thriller! Have some fun with dressing up. Zombie attire is encouraged!

All dance classes are for every body at any experience level, including beginners, with instruction and guidance along the way. The class is taught in a similar way to traditional studio dance with the focus being to practice dance as somatic release by stepping outside of ones comfort zone, learning dance routines to connect the mind and body, and reflecting at the end of class on the practice.

Host: Samantha Hawley

Payment: Tickets are $25. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Minimum 3 registered participants required. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Instructor bio:

Samantha is a lifelong learner and dancer who believes that dance is a human experience meant for every body. She understands dance to be an impactful somatic exercise and has firsthand experience with its incredible benefits for the brain and healing. Sam has danced professionally for the NBA, taught dance recreationally, and coached competitive teams. Her focus today is on sharing dance with her community, especially adults who may have limiting beliefs about dance and who it is meant for.

Qigong
2024-10-29 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-11-05 13:00 - 14:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join us for an invigorating journey into the ancient art of Qigong, a practice that combines gentle movements, controlled breathing, and meditation to promote holistic well-being and balance.
In these classes, you will learn the fundamental principles of Qigong and its potential benefits for physical, mental, and emotional health.

When: Weekly classes – Tuesdays @ 1pm, 60 minutes
Attire: Comfortable clothing and flat-soled shoes
Teachers: Jesse Meyer

Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve physical health, or enhance your overall well-being, our Qigong classes offer a holistic approach to self-care and personal growth. Come join us and discover the transformative power of Qigong.
Mindful Movement: Experience a series of slow and flowing movements designed to increase energy flow, flexibility, and vitality.
Breath Awareness: Discover the power of conscious breathing techniques to enhance relaxation, reduce stress, and boost your body’s natural healing abilities.
Meditation: Learn to calm the mind and cultivate inner peace through guided meditation exercises that promote mental clarity and emotional harmony.
Qi Activation: Explore the concept of Qi (life force energy) and how it influences your overall health and vitality.
Suitable for All Levels: This class is suitable for beginners and those with prior experience in Qigong. Modifications will be offered to accommodate individual needs and abilities.
Community and Connection: Connect with like-minded individuals and foster a sense of community while on your journey to better health.

The Village: A Gathering for Mothers
2024-11-10 09:00 - 10:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
This is a space for new and expecting mothers to gather in community. Open to women who have already become mothers or are expecting a baby.
Becoming a mother is one of the most transformational times in a woman’s life. Unfortunately, the community in motherhood is lost in our modern day society. We all know the saying, “It takes a village to raise a baby.” I believe “The Village” is really meant for the mothers. We need each other to learn from, to support one another, to care, and to grow in motherhood. It takes mothers to mother. This is a space to lean on each other.
We will plan to meet at The Center at 8 Branches once a month. Each session will begin with a grounding practice (one of the following: meditation, light movement, sharing a reading, etc.). Next, I invite mothers to share their birth story, & we will have a topic to open up the discussion. A light snack + tea will be offered.
Themes for group discussion are below. Please note this is just a topic to begin conversation. This is a non-judgmental space for all conversations. Lap babies are welcome.
September 8th: Seasonal Shifts: Let Mother Nature Mother Us
October 6th: Prenatal Movement
November 10th: A Letter To Your Pre-Baby Self
December 1st: Postpartum Rest
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Host: Sarina Ryals | sarina.ryals@gmail.com
Payment: Tickets are $10-25 sliding scale, donation-based. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
Please fill out the following form after registration: https://forms.gle/yFQ7RivNNbLKGoB18
We look forward to seeing you there!

Therapeutic Breathwork
2024-11-15 19:00 - 20:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Let’s come together to breathe, heal, and connect. Join us to discover the transformative power of therapeutic breathwork in a supportive community space. Therapeutic breathwork invites us to:
• Explore the full spectrum of feelings and experiences that life brings
• Heal and integrate the past
• Embody the fullness of the present moment
• Become more fully ourselves and live with meaningful purpose
• Cultivate a deeper sense of connection, peace, and wellbeing
• Breathe life into future visions for ourselves and the world
Led by Julie Banashak, breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide, we will come together for a guided therapeutic breathwork process. As a group, we create a community of support and connection where we witness, uplift, and empower each other through our collective presence. Monthly Therapeutic Breathwork is ongoing and open to all, no experience necessary. Each month will have a light theme exploring the unique energy around the monthly/seasonal/moon cycles that we are in. We will be on the floor, sitting and lying down. While we have yoga mats, blankets, and bolsters, please feel free to bring whatever you need to be comfortable. If you’d like, bring a journal and pen and some water. Wear clothes that you can breathe and move in. It’s best not to eat heavily right before breathwork.
When: Friday, November 15, 7-8:30PM
Contribution: Tickets are $35 and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. There is a minimum 3 participants for offering to be held and tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
If this is your first time attending a Therapeutic Breathwork event, please complete the following form after registration: https://forms.gle/LVbBFh6bq6BoXZBS8
We look forward to seeing you!

About the facilitator: Julie is a breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide. Rooted in an earth-honoring worldview, she has spent over 25 years exploring the depths of healing and transformation. Through
her own journey with childhood and religious trauma, depression, anxiety, and disconnection, she has dedicated her life to understanding and overcoming the deep wounds that shape our lives. With certifications in therapeutic breathwork, nature companionship, integrative psychology, and yoga, Julie offers a holistic and embodied approach to healing. She is also trauma-informed and trained in parts work, and has a passion for ancestral healing. She holds loving and sacred space for you to explore your full self. Together, we dive deep into your experiences, uncover limiting patterns, and cultivate a deeper connection to your true nature. Her intention is to help you rediscover your aliveness, purpose, and the magic that lies within and all around. Julie offers private 1:1 sessions and group work, both in-person and online.

Femme Dance
2024-11-16 10:00 - 11:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Dance is for every body at any experience level, including beginners, with instruction and guidance during every class. While the class is taught in a similar way to a traditional studio class, the focus for students is to practice dance as somatic release by stepping outside their comfort zones and reflecting on their practice at the end of each class.

The style of dance taught in this class is best described as a fusion between jazz or hip-hop and femme. “Femme” in dance simply means exaggerated feminine movements, and movements in this class are influenced by jazz or hip-hop. The goal of this class is to promote body awareness, positivity, release tension and stress, and become more comfortable in one’s own skin.

Participants should wear whatever is comfortable to move in and what makes them feel confident. Bare feet are recommended.

Host: Samantha Hawley

Payment: Tickets are $22. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Minimum 3 registered participants required. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Instructor bio:

Samantha is a lifelong learner and dancer who believes that dance is a human experience meant for every body. She understands dance to be an impactful somatic exercise and has firsthand experience with its incredible benefits for the brain and healing. Sam has danced professionally for the NBA, taught dance recreationally, and coached competitive teams. Her focus today is on sharing dance with her community, especially adults who may have limiting beliefs about dance and who it is meant for.

Gratitude: Sound Integration & Reset
2024-11-18 18:30 - 20:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join Abby, a Music Therapist and Peter Hess Sound Massage Practitioner, of Resonant Heart for a gentle guided experience through music, sound, vibration, meditation, and self as we welcome, embrace, receive and share the good.
When: Monday, November 18, 6:30-8:00 PM
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Payment: Tickets are $35-50 sliding scale and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
Sign up to reserve your spot here.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Ground Inward
2024-12-01 09:00 - 10:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
This is a space to gather and intentionally connect to ourselves, each other, and spirit. We will begin with movement to anchor into our physical bodies. Following movement, we will sit in meditation. Journal prompts will be offered – please bring a journal and pen. There will then be space to connect and share with each other.

Please dress comfortably in layers. While The Center has yoga mats, feel free to bring your own mat as well. All are welcome.

Therapeutic Breathwork
2024-12-11 19:00 - 20:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Let’s come together to breathe, heal, and connect. Join us to discover the transformative power of therapeutic breathwork in a supportive community space. Therapeutic breathwork invites us to:
• Explore the full spectrum of feelings and experiences that life brings
• Heal and integrate the past
• Embody the fullness of the present moment
• Become more fully ourselves and live with meaningful purpose
• Cultivate a deeper sense of connection, peace, and wellbeing
• Breathe life into future visions for ourselves and the world
Led by Julie Banashak, breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide, we will come together for a guided therapeutic breathwork process. As a group, we create a community of support and connection where we witness, uplift, and empower each other through our collective presence. Monthly Therapeutic Breathwork is ongoing and open to all, no experience necessary. Each month will have a light theme exploring the unique energy around the monthly/seasonal/moon cycles that we are in. We will be on the floor, sitting and lying down. While we have yoga mats, blankets, and bolsters, please feel free to bring whatever you need to be comfortable. If you’d like, bring a journal and pen and some water. Wear clothes that you can breathe and move in. It’s best not to eat heavily right before breathwork.
When: Wednesday, December 11, 7-8:30PM
Contribution: Tickets are $35 and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. There is a minimum 3 participants for offering to be held and tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
If this is your first time attending a Therapeutic Breathwork event, please complete the following form after registration: https://forms.gle/LVbBFh6bq6BoXZBS8
We look forward to seeing you!

About the facilitator: Julie is a breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide. Rooted in an earth-honoring worldview, she has spent over 25 years exploring the depths of healing and transformation. Through
her own journey with childhood and religious trauma, depression, anxiety, and disconnection, she has dedicated her life to understanding and overcoming the deep wounds that shape our lives. With certifications in therapeutic breathwork, nature companionship, integrative psychology, and yoga, Julie offers a holistic and embodied approach to healing. She is also trauma-informed and trained in parts work, and has a passion for ancestral healing. She holds loving and sacred space for you to explore your full self. Together, we dive deep into your experiences, uncover limiting patterns, and cultivate a deeper connection to your true nature. Her intention is to help you rediscover your aliveness, purpose, and the magic that lies within and all around. Julie offers private 1:1 sessions and group work, both in-person and online.

Abundance: Sound Integration & Reset
2024-12-16 18:30 - 20:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join Abby, a Music Therapist and Peter Hess Sound Massage Practitioner, of Resonant Heart for a gentle guided experience through music, sound, vibration, meditation, and self as we welcome, embrace, receive and share the good. We are abundant.
When: Monday, December 16, 6:30-8:00 PM
Where: The Center at 8 Branches
Payment: Tickets are $35-50 sliding scale and registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is canceled by the host.
Sign up to reserve your spot here.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Winter Solstice Breathwork Circle
2024-12-20 19:00 - 21:00 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Join us for a Winter Solstice Breathwork Circle, where we’ll honor the longest night of the year and the promise of rebirth as the light begins its slow return. As we descend into winter’s darkest days, we are invited to embrace both the darkness and the light within. Let’s come together in a supportive community space to restore and renew, connecting with ourselves, each other, and the deeply symbolic energy of the season that represents both an ending and a
new beginning. Led by Julie Banashak, breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide, we’ll gather by candlelight for a gentle, restorative breathwork practice followed by a simple ritual honoring this sacred time of transition. Therapeutic breathwork invites us to:
• Explore the full spectrum of feelings and experiences that life brings
• Heal and integrate the past
• Embody the fullness of the present moment
• Become more fully ourselves and live with meaningful purpose
• Cultivate a deeper sense of connection, peace, and wellbeing
• Breathe life into future visions for ourselves and the world
Winter Solstice Breathwork Circle is open to all, no prior experience is necessary. We will be on the floor, sitting and lying down. While yoga mats, blankets, and bolsters are provided, bring whatever you need to feel comfortable. Wear clothes that you can breathe and move in, and it’s best to avoid heavy meals right before breathwork. If you’d like, bring a journal, pen, and water. You’re also welcome to contribute an item for our communal Winter Solstice altar—whether something from nature, a symbol of light or darkness, or a representation of the seeds of intention you’re holding for the new year ahead.
If this is your first time attending a Therapeutic Breathwork event, please complete this form after registration.
Contribution is $40. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session. Minimum 3 registered participants required. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event is cancelled by the host.
We look forward to seeing you there!
About the facilitator: Julie is a breathwork practitioner and nature connection guide. Rooted in an earth-honoring worldview, she has spent over 25 years exploring the depths of healing and transformation. Through her own journey with childhood and religious trauma, depression, anxiety, and disconnection, she has dedicated her life to understanding and overcoming the deep wounds that shape our lives. With certifications in therapeutic breathwork, nature companionship, integrative psychology, and yoga, Julie offers a holistic and embodied approach to healing. She is also trauma-informed and trained in somatic parts work, and she has a passion for ancestral healing. She holds loving and sacred space for you to explore your full self. Together, we dive deep into your experiences, uncover limiting patterns, and cultivate a deeper connection to your true nature. Her intention is to help you rediscover your aliveness, purpose, and the magic that lies within and all around. Julie offers private 1:1 sessions and group work, both in-person and online.

Creative Circle
2024-12-29 10:00 - 11:30 | The Center at 8 Branches, 3405 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53207, United States
Embrace the cozy magic of winter by creating a paper luminary! Learn the art of silhouette and paper cutting techniques with x-acto knives for an illuminated lantern with a wooden frame. Create your own design or use one of the many winter themed templates provided. Each participant will leave with their own handmade creation along with a battery-operated tea candle to add warmth and charm to their home.
All materials provided – simply bring your imagination and creativity! Herbal tea and light snacks will be offered as well.
Contribution: $20. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the session with a minimum of 4 registrants. Tickets cannot be reimbursed after the registration deadline unless the event gets canceled by the host.
Accessibility: We will be using x-acto knives and hot glue for the craft and seated in chairs for the workshop. Please note that there are a few stairs to enter into the building.

We look forward to seeing you!

About the workshop facilitator: Emily Downes is a Milwaukee-based artist whose creative practice involves multimedia modes of making, including video, animation, photography, music, painting, sewing and puppetry. Her creations are deeply rooted in the personal and inspired by her curiosity in symbols and synchronicities that arise in places, conversations, memories, and dreams. For Emily, making art comes full circle when engaged with community, as she is most passionate for sharing her talents with all ages while collaborating with local artists to build a strong and vibrant community.
