MEN'S GROUP

My story of men's group work started when I was 6 years old when my father died suddenly in a car accident.  Since that moment, I was thrust into the world of grief, pain, spirituality, contemplation, and stress/anxiety navigation.  I had no idea how much I lacked strong masculine support and connection until I was 28 years old and discovered a local San Diego Men's Group.

It was 2018 when I joined this first men's group led by Dan Doty. It was here, attending weekly sessions for over a year, that I discovered that connecting on a deeper emotional level with men filled a void I didn't realize I had.  The group support was healing.  The leadership by Dan was second to none. This group quickly became a catalyst for my growth and journey as a man.

When Dan announced he was moving and our group disbanding, I made an easy decision to step into leadership and facilitate my own groups and workshops. Thus, I founded the Gather Encinitas Men's Group - a weekly space for men to build community and connect. This group, which regularly attracted over 10 participants, became the focal point of my development as a leader and facilitator. It was here where I integrated my practices of physiotherapy, somatic healing, breathwork, and psychophysiology.

My desire to develop as a leader continued and I joined EVRYMAN - an online men's group organization - as a lead facilitator.  This gave me even more experience helping men, of all walks of life, feel, heal, and grow.

It was a year later that I came across the work of  John Wineland, a teacher of masculine/feminine polarity and embodiment. John's philosophy of work quickly activated another layer of growth within my soul.  I signed up for a year of trainings and saw all the pieces of mind/body/spirit come together. 

Presently, I continue to be fascinated, inspired, and empowered by the work that takes place on a weekly basis in my mens group.  Our community in North County San Diego continues to get bigger and better.  And although I sit in the position of facilitator, I find it important to lead as a peer.  Every meeting I gain just as much as any participant.

To lead the work, you must do the work.

In joining, here is what to expect:

A powerful, intentional, and deep container.

A safe space to show up fully as the truest version of self.

LOTS of breathwork (for nervous system regulation)

LOTS of breathwork (to open connection to mindfulness)

Education on Emotions and Psychophysiology

Small & Large Group Social Practices

Feel seen and supported

Feel lighter, carrying less stress

Feel more connected to your true self

If you feel inspired by my story, please join us.

If you feel hesitant or fearful, know that you're not alone.

If you have a inner-desire to join... jump in!

- Justin Ternes