By Siam 
Suppose sitting in a circle not of chairs, but of the earth itself. The air is filled with the soft scent of pine and the distant sound of a gently played flute. Around you, people are sharing stories—not from screens, but from the heart. This isn’t a scene from a forgotten time; it’s a gathering of the Ciulianeros, a growing global community finding profound connection in a disconnected world. If you’ve ever felt a pull toward deeper meaning, simpler living, and authentic community, you might already be hearing their call without even knowing their name.
The path of the Ciulianeros is more than a hobby; it’s a philosophy, a practice, and a gentle rebellion against the noise of modern life. It’s about remembering what we’ve forgotten and reweaving the frayed threads of our relationship with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. This article is your guide to understanding this movement, its roots, its practices, and how you can begin your own journey.
Who Are the Ciulianeros? Unpacking the Name and the Niche
The term “Ciulianeros” (see-oo-lee-ah-NEH-ros) itself is evocative. While its deepest etymological roots are guarded within the tradition, it is often translated as “the people of the circle” or “the ones who gather.” This is the first and most important clue to understanding them. Their gatherings are always circular, symbolizing equality, unity, and the cyclical nature of life. There is no head of the table, no hierarchy—only a shared space where every voice is valued.
This isn’t a new religion or a corporate wellness program. It’s a contemporary movement drawing from ancient, earth-based wisdom traditions found in indigenous cultures across the globe. The Ciulianeros act as modern stewards of this wisdom, adapting timeless practices for today’s seeker. They are teachers, healers, storytellers, and, most importantly, fellow travelers on the path.
The Four Pillars of the Ciulianero Practice
The lifestyle of a Ciulianero is built upon four interconnected pillars. You don’t need to master them all at once; each practice is a door into a more conscious way of being.
1. Conscious Circling (The Art of Gathering)
This is the core ritual. Gathering in a circle is a deliberate act. It dissolves the barriers we build in our daily lives. In a Ciulianero circle, people practice deep listening, speaking from the heart, and often use a “talking piece” (like a stone or a feather) to ensure everyone is heard without interruption. It’s a practice in vulnerability, empathy, and collective wisdom.
2. Nature Reclamation (Remembering Our Roots)
For the Ciulianeros, nature is not a resource to be used but a relative to be respected. Their practices are deeply tied to the rhythms of the earth. This includes:
- Celestial Celebrations: Marking solstices, equinoxes, and other astronomical events as moments of reflection and celebration.
- Earthy Mindfulness: Practices like “forest bathing” (shinrin-yoku), mindful hiking, and simply sitting in silence in a natural setting are central.
- Sustainable Stewardship: A commitment to living lightly on the earth, reducing waste, and protecting natural spaces.
3. Story-Weaving (The Currency of Connection)
Before books and blogs, wisdom was passed down through stories. The Ciulianeros revive this ancient art. Story-weaving isn’t just about telling tales; it’s about sharing personal experiences, lessons learned, and dreams for the future. It’s how knowledge becomes embodied and how a community builds its shared identity and history.
4. Craftsmanship with Soul (The Power of the Handmade)
In a world of mass production, creating something with your own hands is a revolutionary act. Ciulianeros often engage in traditional crafts like woodworking, pottery, weaving, or herbalism. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about the meditative process of creation, connecting to the materials, and imbuing objects with intention and meaning.
Ciulianeros vs. Modern Wellness: What Sets Them Apart?
It’s easy to lump this movement in with the broader wellness industry. However, key differences make the Ciulianero path unique.
| Feature | Modern Mainstream Wellness | The Ciulianeros Path |
| Focus | Often individualistic: “My fitness, my glow, my peace.” | Inherently communal: “Our healing, our connection, our circle.” |
| Economic Model | Frequently commercial: expensive retreats, subscriptions, products. | Often gift-economy based: skills-sharing, barter, and community support. |
| Location | Can be studio-based, app-based, or destination-based. | Rooted in local land: gatherings in local parks, forests, or homes. |
| Goal | Self-optimization and stress reduction. | Belonging, purpose, and inter-connection. |
As the table illustrates, while a yoga class might make you feel better, a Ciulianero circle aims to make you feel belonged. It moves beyond self-care into community-care.
Your First Circle: How to Find or Form Your Own Tribe
Feeling the pull? You don’t need a formal invitation. The path of the Ciulianeros is about taking initiative. Here’s how you can take the first step.
1. Seek Out Existing Gatherings
Start by searching online for keywords like “earth-based community [Your City],” “conscious circling,” or “men’s/women’s council near me.” Platforms like Meetup.com or local community boards can be goldmines. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions before attending.
2. Start Small and Simple
You don’t need a perfect fire pit or a dozen people. Invite two or three trusted friends for a walk in a park. Sit in a circle on the grass. Share something authentic—a challenge, a joy, a memory. Use a found object as a talking piece. You’ve just held your first micro-circle.
3. Embrace the Principles at Home
You can embody the spirit of the Ciulianeros alone. Cook a meal with mindful intention, source ingredients locally. Practice a craft. Sit under a tree and simply listen to the world. The inner work fuels the outer community.
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, but the path of the Ciulianeros begins with a single circle. It’s a return to the most fundamental human technology: being present, together.
FAQs
1. Is this a religious or cult-like group?
No. The Ciulianeros movement is a philosophical and practical community, not a religion. It does not have a central dogma, leader, or require you to abandon your existing beliefs. It’s about practice, not doctrine. People of all faiths and none participate.
2. Do I need any special skills or equipment to join?
Absolutely not. The only requirements are an open mind and a willingness to connect. You don’t need to be a master storyteller, a seasoned camper, or a gifted crafter. The circle welcomes beginners.
3. Are there costs associated?
Authentic Ciulianero gatherings typically operate on a gift-economy, donation, or skill-share basis to cover any minimal costs (e.g., renting a space). Be wary of any groups charging high fees for “exclusive” access, as that goes against the core principle of accessible community.
4. Is this family-friendly?
Often, yes! Many circles have family-oriented gatherings or specific circles for children and teens, teaching them the values of community and nature connection from a young age. It’s always best to ask the organizers beforehand.
5. What if I’m introverted or shy?
The circle is actually a perfect place for introverts. The talking piece ensures you won’t be interrupted or forced to speak out of turn. You are also always free to “pass” and just listen. The structure creates a safe container for quieter voices to be heard when they are ready.
6. How is this different from just hanging out with friends?
While hanging out is wonderful, a conscious circle has intention and structure. The use of a talking piece, a chosen theme for sharing, and a commitment to deep listening without giving advice or interrupting transforms a social gathering into a profound practice of connection.
7. Can I start a circle focused on a specific interest, like art or writing?
Yes! The principles of circling are incredibly flexible. A writers’ circle, an artist’s support group, or an eco-activist planning meeting can all benefit from adopting the Ciulianero format of equality, deep listening, and heart-centered sharing. The form serves the function.
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