The Tradition of Women’s Healing in Community

Women Circles & Healing

I used to dismiss healing in community as a bit woo, until I went to my first community acupuncture in San Francisco. Between the beautiful and serene setting, and incredible people gathered together with the same mission, I had never quite experienced such a profound transformation.

I remember walking down the Embarcadero with my liver points humming and my third eye on a next-level sensory awakening. There was something to this whole experience.

For centuries, women have gathered in circles to heal, support one another, and share wisdom. In many indigenous and ancient cultures, women’s health was considered a collective responsibility.

These gatherings provided a space to share remedies, advice, and emotional support, which was essential for their well-being.

From Native American moon lodges to African and Eastern traditions, these circles nurtured women’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Today, we see a resurgence of this wisdom as women reconnect with the idea that healing is often more powerful in community.

Community Support = Better Health Outcomes

Statistically, women who participate in group-based health programs tend to show better outcomes than those who embark on their healing journeys alone.

According to studies from institutions like Yale and Harvard, women are more likely to stay motivated when surrounded by a community. The sense of accountability and mutual encouragement helps overcome obstacles and stick to health goals, whether it’s weight loss, managing stress, or maintaining a fitness routine.

This dynamic can create a powerful momentum toward lasting health improvements.

Reve Health women's healing in community

Consistency Through Connection

Healing in community is also about consistency. When women come together with a shared intention of improving health, it becomes easier to maintain new habits.

In a study from Stanford University, women who engaged in group support were 65% more likely to stick to their wellness plans compared to those who pursued them alone.

The feeling of being part of something larger than yourself, coupled with the commitment to the group, fosters a level of accountability that drives consistency in practice, whether it’s regular exercise, meditation, or dietary changes.

Running with a partner is shown to increase consistency and exercise adherence

Social Interaction and Exercise

Research by Daniel Lieberman, published in the Harvard Gazette, highlights the strong social aspect of exercise as a motivating factor.

It suggests that humans are naturally inclined to participate in physical activities within a social context.

This social interaction not only makes exercise more enjoyable but also encourages adherence to a workout routine.

Lieberman emphasizes that historical contexts show people have rarely engaged in strenuous physical activity alone, reinforcing the idea that community participation can significantly enhance motivation to exercise.

Rewiring Neural Pathways for Lasting Change

Another benefit of communal healing is its impact on the brain. Group interactions and shared experiences can help women rewire neural pathways, which is critical for breaking old, unhealthy habits and forming new, positive ones.

Studies from Harvard University have shown that supportive social networks enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change and adapt.

This rewiring is crucial for adopting and sustaining healthy behaviors over the long term.

By sharing stories, challenges, and successes, women in community reinforce each other’s new neural patterns, making long-term healing more achievable

Healing in community does more than improve mental and emotional health—it can also extend both healthspan and lifespan

Mental Health, Purpose, and Collective Growth

Community healing fosters not just physical but also mental well-being.

Research from the University of Pennsylvania indicates that women who connect regularly with supportive peers report lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Additionally, the communal aspect of healing helps individuals find a deeper sense of purpose.

By participating in a collective journey toward wellness, women often rediscover their own motivations, align with their core values, and embrace a more optimistic and purposeful outlook on life.

Women who nurture strong social ties are more likely to experience healthier, longer lives.

Healthspan, Lifespan, and the Power of Community

Healing in community does more than improve mental and emotional health—it can also extend both healthspan and lifespan.

Studies from Blue Zones have repeatedly shown that social connection is one of the most critical factors in longevity. Women who nurture strong social ties are more likely to experience healthier, longer lives.

The combination of emotional support, shared purpose, and communal care creates a positive feedback loop that enhances not only individual well-being but also contributes to collective thriving.

It’s Why We’ll Be Creating More In-Person Events

We’re so excited to announce the first of our in-person events specifically for our members based in Massachusetts.

We believe everyone can better optimize their health in community.

As we grow (remember we are still a startup!), we’ll expand our events to other places and for more members. For now, we hope to meet everyone in Massachusetts.

If you’ve been thinking about joining any of our programs, now is the time! We’ll help each other over the course of the next few months and transform our minds, bodies, and spirit!

learn more

Author

Julie Elaine Brown

Julie is the CEO and Co-founder of Rêve Health. She is a serial entrepreneur, accredited investor, and marketing strategist. She ran and sold a funded ecommerce wellness retreat company in 2012 and then started a strategy & transformation consultancy serving Fortune 100 clients. She has a Masters degree in Journalism from Northeastern University and a B.A. in English Literature with a Minor in Exercise Science. As a former Journalist, she is an avid researcher and reader. She enjoys hiking, biohacking, walking her dog, travel, wellness retreats, and watching sci-fi.
View all posts