Authentic Relating | The Space Between Us: Closeness, Distance & Staying Present

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 7:00–10:00 PM *Doors open at 6:45 PM. Doors close at 7:10 PM.* theDEZrT — Little Burgundy Near Georges-Vanier & Lionel-Groulx Metro *Exact address shared privately with confirmed participants before the event.* Limited to 7 participants to preserve depth, safety and intimacy.

The Space Between Us *Closeness, distance & the courage to stay present*

We all move differently around connection. Sometimes we want closeness and hesitate when it arrives. Sometimes we pull away when something becomes uncomfortable. Sometimes we remain connected outwardly while quietly disappearing inside. And sometimes the hardest thing is simply allowing another person to see what is actually happening in us.

The Space Between Us is a Human Connection Lab exploring what happens when we move toward and away from one another — not as something to fix, but as something to notice, communicate and practise with another person in real time.

Through Authentic Relating, conversation and experiential exercises, we’ll explore:

• What happens inside us when someone moves closer • How we communicate openness, hesitation, boundaries and distance • The difference between protecting ourselves and abandoning connection • What fills the space when communication disappears • What becomes possible when we name what is happening instead of acting it out • How closeness can coexist with boundaries, autonomy and choice

You will never be asked to disclose anything you do not want to share. The invitation is simply to become curious about how you move in relationship — and to notice what changes when another person is there to meet you with the same curiosity. Human Connection Lab is not therapy, and it is not about fixing yourself. It is a space to practise presence, honesty, play, boundaries and genuine human connection.

What to Expect Each session evolves with the group and may include:

• Guided grounding and breathwork • Playful relational icebreakers • Paired Authentic Relating Games • Reflective or creative exercises • A sound exploration • Circling and group sharing No previous experience with Authentic Relating, Circling or breathwork is necessary.

Come as you are. Participate at your own pace.

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing • A water bottle • Curiosity • A willingness to participate at your own pace

Contribution New to Human Connection Lab? Your first session is free. Returning participants: $14 We want these gatherings to remain accessible while also honouring the time, preparation and care that go into creating them. If finances are genuinely preventing you from attending, reach out privately. Connection should not depend on having everything figured out — financially or otherwise.

Registering through Meetup

1. RSVP “Going” to reserve your place. 2. Returning participants can send the $14 contribution by e-transfer to thedezrt111@gmail.com

Security Question: Human Connection Lab Answer: theDEZrT Cash or e-transfer after the session is also welcome.