On October 29th, 2025, the Matriarch Movement hosted the first Medicine Circles x Indigenous Wellness Series gathering in Calgary – on the traditional territory of Moh-kíns-tsis (Calgary), the homeland of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai First Nations), as well as the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Stoney Nakoda Nations (Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley). The city is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. \

This Indigenous-led circle welcomed thirty Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit, and non-binary participants for an evening of ceremony, teachings, and healing. Guided by Blackfoot Elder Vinnia Van Overdyk and Anita Crowshoe, the gathering opened with traditional teachings and a sharing circle. Participants were invited to share in a circle, connect through the teachings, and begin to reflect on the responsibility we all have of carrying wellness forward (personally + collectively). After tea and light snacks, Shayla Oulette Stonechild led a meditation and gentle yoga flow inspired by the Four Directions of the Medicine Wheel, weaving breath, movement, and intention to ground participants.

This powerful evening marked the beginning of an Indigenous led wellness journey designed to nurture intergenerational healing and cultural resurgence through monthly wellness gatherings. Supported by Indigenous Services Canada and the Community Support Fund from the Government of Alberta, the series embodies Matriarch Movement’s vision of creating safe, inclusive spaces for Indigenous-led wellness, storytelling, and reconnection to land and culture. Each participant received a yoga mat generously sponsored by lululemon to support their ongoing practice and commitment to holistic well-being.

Ekosi and hiy hiy to everyone who made this gathering possible – the Elders and Knowledge Carriers for anchoring us in the intention and beautiful sharing circle to the Matriarch Movement team for their dedication and care in creating these spaces, and to all the participants who showed up in vulnerability, courage, and community. Together, we continue to honour our ancestors, strengthen our kinship, and move toward collective healing – one medicine circle and gathering at a time. Until next time.