MENTRaL

08/08/2025

This past Monday, we held a small but deeply meaningful session on The Hidden Power of Forgiveness.

Though the circle was intimate, the depth we reached was anything but small.

From writing letters of forgiveness to ourselves, to giving voice to the stories we’ve long kept hidden, we were reminded: healing doesn’t require a crowd — just presence, honesty, and heart.

Here’s a reflection from our co-facilitator, Kristof Nieves, shared with intention to continue the conversation beyond the circle:

"I used to think forgiveness came easily to me. I’ve always been quick to release resentment — in day-to-day situations and even in certain relationships.

But I’ve realized that sometimes I bypass discomfort by pretending I’m okay — trying to be at peace before I’ve really let myself feel. And when I do that, resentment quietly builds underneath.

Over the past while, I’ve been practicing more honest communication — naming my feelings, expressing when something doesn’t feel right. That’s been deeply healing.

Forgiving others has become easier. But last night, during our circle, I realized that forgiving myself is a skill I’m still learning.

There was a moment where something shifted — as if a deeper part of me, rooted in love, empathy, and strength, stepped in and said:

‘It’s time.’

Time to let go of pain I’ve carried for no good reason.
Time to release a story that wasn’t serving me — or anyone I’ve hurt along the way.

Forgiving myself felt like a quiet homecoming. A cleansing.
It reminded me that when I meet my shadow with honesty and love, I have the power to change — and to become a gentler, more conscious man."

Moments like these remind us why we gather:
To witness one another.
To remember that we’re not alone in the weight we carry — or in our capacity to release it.

Thank you to the few who showed up, and showed up fully. Your courage created ripples far beyond the room.

Together, we’re learning that forgiveness isn’t just about others.
It’s about returning to compassion for ourselves.

A quiet homecoming.

—
👉 Want to join us next time? mentral.ca

05/02/2025

Men’s Circle | Freedom to Play: Laughter as Medicine

Monday, May 5th – Only 4 Spots Left!

Join us for a night of reconnection — to joy, movement, and the simple medicine of laughter.

Through stretching, breathwork, authentic relating games, circling, and a sound meditation, we’ll explore how play reconnects us to our inner aliveness.

✨ This is your space to:

Show up exactly as you are

Shake off the weight of the week

Rediscover the freedom to simply be

Come laugh, move, and heal with your brothers. Let’s play.

🕖 7PM–10PM | Montréal
🔗 RSVP now on Meetup:

**Description:** In a world that often feels heavy, we forget the healing power of laughter, movement, and pure, simple fun. This Monday, we invite you back to the roots of

04/18/2025

4 Spots Left — This Monday Night

Brothers,
This Monday we gather again.

Our next MENTRaL session still has 4 spots open for men ready to lean into growth, connection, and consistency.

If you’ve been feeling the pull to reconnect with yourself and show up more fully in your life, this circle is for you.

This week’s theme:
“The Backbone of Becoming: Consistency & Commitment”
Together we’ll explore what it means to stay aligned with the man we say we’re becoming — even when life pulls us in a hundred directions.

📅 Date: Monday, April 21st
🕖 Time: 7:00–10:00 PM
📍 Location: Near Lionel-Groulx (RSVP for exact address)

👉 RSVP by clicking on the link!

Let’s grow, together.

🔷 The Backbone of Becoming: Consistency & Commitment You know the feeling. The desire to show up for yourself, again and again— To build something meaningful, stay commit

02/07/2025

Only 2 Spots Left for Monday’s MENTRaL Session!

This Monday, we’re coming together to explore The Creative Path: Expressing Ourselves, Even in Uncertainty. Whether you’re navigating change, tapping into your creativity, or just looking for a space to connect, this session is about showing up as you are—no pressure, just presence.

Through breathwork, authentic relating, and sound healing, we’ll create space for real conversations and deeper self-awareness. If this speaks to you, grab one of the last spots and join us.

🔗 RSVP here: https://www.meetup.com/mentral/events/306041056/

Looking forward to seeing you there!

# # # **The Creative Path: Expressing Ourselves, Even in Uncertainty** You’re here because you recognize that true strength comes from the courage to know yourself deeply. A

01/14/2025

Last night’s session was truly powerful. To every man who stepped into the circle with openness and intention—thank you. 🙌

In a world that often pushes us to rush past our feelings, taking the time to pause, reflect, and connect is an act of courage. Your willingness to explore trust and safety within friendships speaks to the strength it takes to truly grow. 🌱

The golden Buddha, which belonged to my mom's uncle, watched over us last night—a timeless reminder of wisdom, peace, and inner strength. Like the teachings of Buddha, these sessions remind us that true strength is found in vulnerability, and that the journey inward can transform how we show up for ourselves and those around us.

Let’s carry this spirit forward, step by step. Stay tuned for updates on our next gathering—this journey of growth, connection, and community is just beginning.

Photo Credit: Francois Dufort🙏

12/18/2024

This past Monday, we gathered to explore a deeply human and often challenging topic: loneliness.

To everyone who showed up, opened their hearts, and bravely shared their stories or simply listened — we are in awe of your courage. It’s not easy to face these emotions, let alone in a group setting, but together, we created a space of understanding, connection, and hope. 💪

Loneliness touches us all in different ways, yet Monday reminded us that we’re never truly alone in our experiences. Your vulnerability and presence made this session something truly special, and for that, we are so grateful. 🙏💛

Let’s keep building this community where every voice is valued, and no one feels unseen. ✨

Our next gathering will be on December 30th, and we can’t wait to share more details soon!

With gratitude and love,
Cris & Dez

Photo Credit: Francois Dufort🙏

12/10/2024

🌱✨ Yesterday’s MENTRaL session was truly transformative, and we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude.

The image of the diffuser’s smoke against the greenery reflects the essence of our gathering: the challenge of releasing judgments, the struggle of shedding old masks, and the beauty of embracing our authentic selves.

Thank you to everyone who brought their courage, openness, and energy into the space. It’s through moments like these that we create a community rooted in connection, compassion, and growth. 💚

We’d love to hear your reflections from the session—drop a comment below or send us a message! Stay tuned for updates on future gatherings, and let’s keep building this journey together.

Photo Credit: Francois Dufort🙏

11/27/2024

🌟 Thank You, MENTRaL Community! 🌟

This past Monday, our gathering was nothing short of extraordinary. To each of you who showed up—your courage, openness, and willingness to connect created something truly powerful. 🙌

Whether through sharing, listening, or simply being present, you reminded us all of the strength that comes from coming together with authenticity and intention. 💬✨

We are deeply grateful for your trust and energy in this space. Every session is a co-creation, and you made it unforgettable. Let’s keep building this brotherhood, one step at a time. 💛

With infinite gratitude,🙏
Cris & Dez

Photo Credit: Francois Dufort🙏