Introducing... 10 minute breaks in Support Circles ☕

JustV

Hello Mixers! Some of you know this already, but for those who don't, we're introducing a 10 minute break to all Support Circles. This came from feedback we got from you and from moderators - we know Support Circles can be heavy, and focusing for 90 minutes is a lot to ask of you and our mod team.

The break will always be around the halfway mark, but the exact time will vary depending on how many people are signed up. The time will be clearly marked in the email you receive on the day of your chat.

One important note: we'll be upholding the rule around not using other chats if you're signed up to Support Circle, even during this break. There are a few reasons for this:

• to prevent Circle members getting swept up in or distracted by other conversations
• to avoid an influx of chatters in other rooms during the break (which might be disruptive)
• to encourage chatters to take a proper break

Please return to the chat after the break, even if you've had your support time. We're going to be pretty strict on this - we want to make sure people with a later slot still get everyone's attention and focus.

JustV

Oh, and we've made the time for this break by changing closing round from 15 minutes to 5 minutes. We've kept the 15 minutes at the start for arrivals, opening round, and the group agreement.

independent_

Is this a silent break or a general chit chat break? Just wondering as someone who uses circle

Rose113

@independent_ silent break

JustV

This is actually a good question @independent_! @River's not wrong that up until now I think they've been silent breaks, but chit chat is allowed too. If you're not bothered about taking a proper break then it's okay to chat generally with whoever is still in the room.

We're kind of feeling this out as we go so we can see what works best.