Projects

Discover our mindfulness events and programs at ALTAR Chicago. Cultivate inner calm and authentic connection in a community-centered space. Step Into Mindfulness Experiences at ALTAR Chicago Discover events and programs designed for your journey. Come take up space. Pause. Breathe. Remember. In a city that never slows down, our Chicago mindfulness experiences offer sanctuary for your soul. From guided meditations to contemplative practices, we create intentional spaces where presence becomes your greatest teacher. Here, mindfulness isn't just a practice—it's a pathway to deeper connection with yourself and your community. Explore Chicago Mindfulness Events Upcoming Mindfulness Events at ALTAR The next chapter of your mindfulness journey in Chicago begins here. Discover what's coming up and find the gathering that feels right for you. Thu, Sep 17 Bring Your Soul to Work Day / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Sep 17, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA FREE for first-time guests & ALTAR Members! Curious about everything ALTAR has to offer? Join our Bring Your Soul to Work Open House to get a taste of what your day could look like in our sacred third space. +53 more Multiple Dates Wed, Sep 23 Get Sh*t Done Club / ALTAR Community or via Zoom Buy Tickets Sep 23, 2026, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM CDT ALTAR Community or via Zoom, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Bring your laptop, notebook, or any project you're working on! Join like-minded women for an intentional, focused coworking time to check things off your to-do list. Free for ALTAR Members! See All Multiple Dates Wed, Sep 30 Get Sh*t Done Club / ALTAR Community or via Zoom Buy Tickets Sep 30, 2026, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM CDT ALTAR Community or via Zoom, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Bring your laptop, notebook, or any project you're working on! Join like-minded women for an intentional, focused coworking time to check things off your to-do list. Free for ALTAR Members! Multiple Dates Wed, Oct 07 Get Sh*t Done Club / ALTAR Community or via Zoom Buy Tickets Oct 07, 2026, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM CDT ALTAR Community or via Zoom, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Bring your laptop, notebook, or any project you're working on! Join like-minded women for an intentional, focused coworking time to check things off your to-do list. Free for ALTAR Members! Load More See the Full Calendar Why ALTAR Chicago is the Place for Mindfulness Experiences ALTAR understands that true mindfulness flourishes in community. Our mindfulness experiences go beyond individual practice, weaving together ancient wisdom traditions with contemporary approaches to create containers for collective awakening. Each session is thoughtfully designed to honor both the silence within and the shared journey of growth, fostering authentic connections among seekers walking similar paths. As an ALTAR member, you'll have access to our full spectrum of mindfulness offerings—from meditation sits to immersive contemplative workshops—many included in your membership or available with your member discount. Join a community that celebrates the courage to slow down, where your practice of presence becomes a gift not just to yourself but to everyone who shares this sacred space with you. Become a Member Why Our Community Loves Mindfulness Experiences at ALTAR "Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur." — Testimonial Section Plan Your Journey Through Mindfulness in Chicago Come take up space. Ready to explore what's ahead? Browse our full calendar of mindfulness experiences and find the gatherings that call to you. September 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 31 1 2 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 17 9:00 AM Bring Your Soul to Work Day 18 19 20 21 22 23 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:00 AM Get Sh*t Done Club 8 9 10 8:30 AM Forest Bathing at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool 11 Explore More at ALTAR There's always more to discover at ALTAR. Your journey doesn't end with mindfulness practices—it expands. Explore additional experiences across our community and find the paths that meet you exactly where you are. Every offering is an invitation to deepen your connection with yourself and others. Yoga & Pilates Learn More Movement & Dance Rituals Learn More All Events & Programs Learn More Meet the Practitioners Who Bring These Experiences to Life Behind every mindfulness experience is a practitioner who holds space with intention and care. Meet the humans who guide these transformative gatherings.

Discover Lydia Ruyle’s Goddess Banners and Crop Circle Portals at ALTAR and learn how this sacred art is a lasting spiritual portal to divine feminine power. Sacred Portals Experience Lydia Ruyle's Goddess Banners & Crop Circle Portals at ALTAR When Lydia Ruyle's Goddess Banners first graced ALTAR's grand opening on December 4th, 2021, they marked an auspicious beginning. That winter solstice through spring equinox, 41 banners stood as Goddesses-in-Residence, holding space as ALTAR found its footing as a sanctuary for women in Chicago. Miniature prayer flags of those original goddesses still hang in the entryway, honoring that sacred start. The banners returned in April 2024 for Herstory Retold, where 33 banners spanning pre-history to present accompanied Elizabeth Lesser's exploration of reclaimed feminine wisdom. Now, for their fourth visit, Lydia Ruyle’s Goddess Banners arrive as part of something unprecedented: Sacred Portals, an exhibition anchored by twelve monumental crop circle portals—the first public display of this extraordinary collection in decades, and the first time these two bodies of Ruyle's work have been shown together. As we honor and engage with Ruyle's complete vision this winter, ALTAR is aligning ever more deeply with what we are: a truing station for feminine movements and people. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. About Lydia Ruyle and Sacred Portals Lydia Ruyle (1935–2016) was a visionary artist, professor, storyteller, and beloved wisdom keeper. Through her vibrant work, she restored what was often overlooked: the powerful, diverse, and inclusive images of the feminine divine and the cosmic patterns that have shaped humanity's understanding of the sacred. The twelve crop circle portals at the heart of Sacred Portals represent the second major body of Ruyle's artistic legacy. Each winter, while visiting her young granddaughters in Chicago, Ruyle would work at Columbia College Chicago, transforming crop circle formations found near sacred sites in the UK into large-scale paper art. She chose images that spoke to her soul—mysterious, ephemeral designs that appeared annually upon Mother Earth herself—and rendered them in vibrant neon sacred geometry on handmade paper. Ruyle called these formations "temples in the land." Through her monumental works, she invites us into an experience of the divine through form, pattern, and cosmic harmony. Each portal opens a doorway to something beyond our everyday awareness. In luminous contrast, her world-renowned Goddess Banner Collection represents hundreds of images of the divine feminine drawn from cultures around the globe. Her sacred art remains a call to remember the values of creativity, compassion, justice, and connection to the natural world embodied by goddesses as creators, healers, protectors, warriors, guides, and much more. Together, these two bodies of work create a powerful juxtaposition: earth and cosmos, goddess and geometry, myth and mystery. Ruyle's work mirrors the opening of doorways, helping us feel free to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what is beautiful and what matters in our lives. These sacred portals and banners gently and powerfully invite us to step into a space of balance, belonging, and renewal. The Experience at ALTAR At ALTAR, Sacred Portals transforms our sanctuary into an immersive sacred space—an artistic mandala of the divine feminine. In the main gallery, twelve monumental crop circle portals command the space with their vibrant neon sacred geometry. These hand-crafted paper works evoke the mystery of formations that appear in fields near ancient sacred sites, inviting you to contemplate the relationship between earthly patterns and cosmic design. In the adjoining Womb Room, rotating micro-exhibits feature selections of thirteen Goddess Banners, each exploring the seasons of the sacred feminine: December - February Dark Madonnas & Sacred Portals Enter the womb of transformation, where darkness becomes the seed of light. These banners honor the divine feminine in her aspect of deep mystery, gestation, and the fertile void from which all creation emerges. March - April Goddesses of Spring & the Return of Life Balance restored, rebirth celebrated, the feminine reawakens. These banners celebrate renewal, growth, and the irrepressible life force that returns with spring. Here at ALTAR, stories flow freely, and the atmosphere hums with the power of shared experiences. Lydia Ruyle’s goddess banners and crop circle portals infuse our intentional space with profound sacredness and reverence, creating a transformative and deeply meaningful environment. We encourage you to receive and be inspired by their energy, whether you experience these feminine artworks in person at ALTAR or here, digitally. Take a moment of sacred space, step away from the day, and realign with your truest self. Experience how art is a portal to the divine. Related Events and Experiences Lydia Ruyle’s Goddess Banners and crop circle portals encourage viewers to align more closely with their inner strength and to feel deeper connections to the cosmic patterns and divine feminine wisdom that surrounds us. To support those seeking clarity and truth, ALTAR offers many opportunities for finding balance and belonging. Upcoming Events Thu, Apr 16 Bring Your Soul to Work Day / Details Apr 16, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA FREE for first-time guests & ALTAR Members! Curious about everything ALTAR has to offer? Join our Bring Your Soul to Work Open House to get a taste of what your day could look like in our sacred third space. +38 more Membership Offer Sat, Apr 11 The Wild Why Workshop with Laura Munson / Details Apr 11, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Join NY Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author Laura Munson for a soulful, small-group writing workshop for anyone wanting to explore their creative self-expression through writing. Space is limited to 10 participants! +10 more Flash Sale on Now! Sat, Apr 11 The Wild Why Lunch and Wonder Experience with Laura Munson / Details Apr 11, 2026, 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Join NY Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author Laura Munson for a spacious and interactive afternoon gathering focused on the power of wonder, creativity and meaningful conversation. Tickets include seasonal lunch! +3 more A glimpse Into Sacred Portals Explore the Space Whether you’re planning a gathering, workshop, or moments of mutual reflection, ALTAR offers an atmosphere unlike any other. We invite you to bring your event into this sacred space while Ruyle’s Goddess Banners and crop circle portals are here and beyond. Book your time with us and let the power of this installation elevate your gathering into something truly unforgettable. BOOK YOUR TIME WITH US

Learn about Lydia Ruyle's Goddess Banners and their exhibitions at ALTAR Community. Goddesses in Residence at ALTAR Chicago Goddesses-in-Residence From the new moon on December 4th through the spring Equinox in March of 2022, the ALTAR Community had the extraordinary opportunity to experience an inspiring and transformative art installation honoring the divine goddess in all her forms - including in each of us. Our Grand Opening Reception was held on December 4th. Legendary artist, Lydia Ruyle, was most well-known for her goddess icon banners, or as she affectionately called them, the “girls." She created more than 300 banners that depict original images of the divine feminine across continents and cultures. They have flown at sacred sites to empower, teach and share their stories around the globe. Lydia's niece, Katie Hoffner, brought the banners to ALTAR for an extended exhibit we called Goddesses-in-Residence. We recently had the unique opportunity to acquire one-of-a-kind prayer flags representing each goddess that previously graced our walls. We created a fundraiser to help underwrite the cost of the Goddesses-in-Residence and this new permanent installation of Lydia Ruyle’s work, which Katie Hoffner has lovingly and generously co-created with us. From August through the beginning of October, Katie returned to ALTAR with a different group of 33 banners fresh from their residency at The Goddess Conference in Glastonbury, UK. These powerful goddesses inspire and challenge each of us to embody the sacred feminine at ALTAR and beyond. Join us for ART. ALCHEMY. ACTIVISM @ALTAR . Goddesses-in-Residence at ALTAR Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied our space

Discover our meditation and breathwork events and programs at ALTAR. Heal and awaken with guided breathwork in a supportive community. Step Into Meditation & Breathwork Events at ALTAR Chicago Discover events and programs designed for your journey. Come take up space. Your breath is your bridge to presence. Our Chicago breathwork offerings combine the transformative power of conscious breathing with deep meditative practices, creating pathways to inner stillness and expanded awareness. From guided meditation sessions to intensive breathwork journeys, we provide meditation seekers with sacred containers for healing, awakening, and profound personal transformation through the simplest yet most powerful tool you carry: your breath. Explore Meditation & Breathwork Events Upcoming Meditation & Breathwork Events at ALTAR Chicago The next chapter of your meditation and breathwork journey begins here. Discover what's coming up and find the gathering that feels right for you. Sun, Oct 04 Soulful Sunday Retreat Day / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Oct 04, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Experience a relaxing retreat atmosphere full of community & restorative self-care without needing to leave Chicago. Free to attend for first-time guests and ALTAR Members! +2 more Membership Offer Sat, Oct 10 Forest Bathing at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool / Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Buy Tickets Oct 10, 2026, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, 125 W Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA Experience this guided forest bathing experience at the newly restored Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, one of Chicago's most beautiful hidden gems. Space is limited to 15 participants! See All Sun, Dec 06 Soulful Sunday Retreat Day / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Dec 06, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Experience a relaxing retreat atmosphere full of community & restorative self-care without needing to leave Chicago. Free to attend for first-time guests and ALTAR Members! See All See the Full Calendar Why ALTAR is the Place for Meditation & Breathwork Experiences in Chicago ALTAR recognizes that breath is medicine and meditation is a homecoming. Our meditation and breathwork experiences are led by skilled facilitators who understand the profound healing potential of conscious breathing and mindful presence. Every session creates a safe, supportive environment where you can explore the depths of your inner landscape, release what no longer serves, and connect with your innate wisdom while building authentic community with fellow seekers. As an ALTAR member, you'll enjoy unlimited access to our diverse meditation and breathwork offerings, many of which are included in your membership or available at discounted member rates. Join a community that honors the sacred practice of coming home to yourself, where your breath becomes a bridge to both inner peace and meaningful connection with others. You can also explore our corporate meditation programs , designed for team reset and reconnection. Become a Member Why Our Community Loves Meditation & Breathwork at ALTAR "Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur." — Testimonial Section Plan Your Journey Through Meditation & Breathwork in Chicago Come take up space. Ready to explore what's ahead? Browse our full calendar of meditation and breathwork experiences and find the gatherings that call to you. September 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1:00 PM 9DMT Cellular Regeneration Breathwork Journey 13 9:30 AM Soulful Sunday Retreat Day 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 9:30 AM Soulful Sunday Retreat Day 5 6 7 8 9 10 8:30 AM Forest Bathing at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool 11 Explore More at ALTAR There's always more to discover at ALTAR. Your journey doesn't end with meditation and breathwork—it expands. Explore additional experiences across our community and find the paths that meet you exactly where you are. Every offering is an invitation to deepen your connection with yourself and others. Mindfulness Experiences Learn More Movement & Dance Rituals Learn More All Events & Programs Learn More Meet the Practitioners Who Bring These Experiences to Life Behind every meditation and breathwork experience is a practitioner who holds space with intention and care. Meet the humans who guide these transformative gatherings.

Read ALTAR's FAQs to answer your basic questions about our sacred, third space in Chicago. ALTAR FAQs: Your Questions, Answered Meditation General "Meditation is too woo or spiritual for our culture." ALTAR's Chicago corporate meditation programs are entirely secular and grounded in neuroscience. As research from Harvard, Stanford, and the NIH demonstrates, meditation produces measurable brain changes that enhance executive function, emotional regulation, and decision-making. Fortune 500 companies, including Aetna, General Mills, and Google, have successfully implemented meditation programs precisely because they're presented as evidence-based leadership development accessible to all employees regardless of personal beliefs. "We don't have time for meditation." "Meditation won't solve our real business problems." "Our leaders won't buy in."

Meet Elise Magers, ALTAR Core Practitioner. Elise is our Companion in Creativity & a certified SoulCollage facilitator offering events at ALTAR. Meet Elise Magers Companion in Creativity www.companionincreativity.com @Topsyirving CLASSES I TEACH AT ALTAR SoulCollage® I have lived into a delightful way to combine my love of Art, Psychology and Spirituality in the practice of SoulCollage® which enables anyone to explore the wise and rich aspects of her Soul for nourishment, self-discovery and empowerment. I LOVE: Connecting people to themselves and with one another. I DO WHAT I DO BECAUSE: I love my work and what I do enriches me as a member of the human race PIECE OF ADVICE I'D GIVE MY YOUNGER SELF: Trust yourself, listen to your intuition, hang on tight - it's going to be a wild ride and love yourself all along the way WHEN I AM INSPIRED MY MIND FEELS: /MY BODY FEELS: When I am inspired my mind is making connections in technicolor and my body is relaxed yet fully energized I LONG TO: Be creative with compassionate, intelligent people who have learned to think critically about all the things we take in every day ONE OUTFIT FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE: My birthday suit MY FAVORITE FORM OF PLAY: SoulCollage® with a group BOOKS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE: I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou; The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner; poems by Rilke and Whyte; Being Mortal by Atul Gwande and so many more WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT MYSELF: My kindness and being a good friend WHAT I WANT LESS OF IN MY LIFE IS: Divisive politics MY NO-FAIL, GO-TO FEEL GOOD SONG: I Am Woman THE ALTAR OF MY LIFE IS: My SoulCollage practice as it evolves BACK TO ALL TEACHERS

Discover our cacao ceremony and soul wellness events and programs at ALTAR. Nourish your spirit and connect with divine essence within. Step Into Cacao Ceremony & Soul Wellness Programs at ALTAR Chicago Discover events and programs designed for your journey. Come take up space. Nourish your soul from the inside out. Our Chicago cacao ceremony offerings blend ancient plant medicine wisdom with modern soul wellness practices, creating sacred containers for spiritual awakening. At ALTAR, we honor the profound connection between spiritual nourishment and physical well-being, inviting you to embrace your divine essence. Explore Spiritual Wellness Events Upcoming Cacao Ceremony & Soul Wellness Events at ALTAR The next chapter of your spiritual journey begins here. Discover what's coming up and find the gathering that feels right for you. Thu, Sep 17 Bring Your Soul to Work Day / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Sep 17, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA FREE for first-time guests & ALTAR Members! Curious about everything ALTAR has to offer? Join our Bring Your Soul to Work Open House to get a taste of what your day could look like in our sacred third space. +53 more Sat, Sep 19 The Conscious Parenting Salon / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Sep 19, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Join Annmarie Chereso, Conscious Relationship Coach, for this FREE talk + workshop on how parents can raise confident kids who feel safe being fully themselves! +3 more Membership Offer Wed, Sep 30 Shamanic Sound Healing with Rachel Kathryn Weber / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Sep 30, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Join Rachel Kathryn Weber, energy & sound healer, for a soothing sound healing journey to restore balance and harmony. Free for ALTAR Members! +4 more Sun, Oct 04 Soulful Sunday Retreat Day / ALTAR Community Buy Tickets Oct 04, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM ALTAR Community, 2518 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA Experience a relaxing retreat atmosphere full of community & restorative self-care without needing to leave Chicago. Free to attend for first-time guests and ALTAR Members! +2 more Load More See the Full Calendar Why ALTAR is the Place for Cacao Ceremony and Soul Wellness Experiences in Chicago ALTAR approaches spiritual wellness as a sacred practice of tending to your soul's deepest needs. Our cacao ceremony and soul wellness offerings recognize that true wellness extends beyond the physical, encompassing the spiritual dimensions that feed your essence and ignite your inner light. Every gathering is facilitated with reverence for the sacred medicines and practices that have supported human spiritual evolution, creating safe spaces where you can explore your relationship with the divine while connecting authentically with fellow seekers on the path of soul wellness. As an ALTAR member, you'll have access to our full spectrum of spiritual wellness experiences, many of which are included in your membership or available at exclusive member rates. Join a community that honors the sacred relationship between spiritual practice and holistic wellness, where your journey of soul tending becomes medicine not only for yourself but for the collective healing of our interconnected world. Become a Member Why Our Community Loves Cacao Ceremony and Soul Wellness Experiences at ALTAR "Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur." — Testimonial Section Plan Your Journey Through Spiritual Wellness in Chicago Come take up space. Ready to explore what's ahead? Browse our full calendar of cacao ceremony and soul wellness experiences and find the gatherings that call to you. September 2026 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1:00 PM 9DMT Cellular Regeneration Breathwork Journey 13 9:30 AM Soulful Sunday Retreat Day 14 15 16 8:00 AM Farmers Market Meetup with Anna Jackson +1 more 17 9:00 AM Bring Your Soul to Work Day 18 19 12:00 PM The Conscious Parenting Salon 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 6:00 PM Shamanic Sound Healing with Rachel Kathryn Weber 1 2 3 4 9:30 AM Soulful Sunday Retreat Day 5 6 6:00 PM Wired this Way 7 8 9 10 8:30 AM Forest Bathing at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool 11 Explore More at ALTAR There's always more to discover at ALTAR Chicago. Your journey doesn't end with spiritual wellness experiences—it expands. Explore additional experiences across our community and find the paths that meet you exactly where you are. Every offering is an invitation to deepen your connection with yourself and others. Mindfulness Experiences Learn More Movement & Dance Rituals Learn More All Events & Programs Learn More Meet the Practitioners Who Bring These Experiences to Life Behind every cacao ceremony and soul wellness experience is a practitioner who holds space with intention and care. Meet the humans who guide these transformative gatherings.

Discover Tia Ress, ALTAR Core Practitioner. Tia Ress is a Psychic & Human Design Expert offering events at ALTAR Community in Chicago. Meet Tia Ress Psychic & Human Design Expert www.tiaress.com Instagram: @tiaressofficial CLUBHOUSE PROGRAMS OFFERED AT ALTAR Human Design "Woo-Curious" Open House I lead women to trust their intuition and find clarity making big, brave decisions. I DO WHAT I DO BECAUSE: I have a deep and personal connection to Spirit and feel it is my calling to support women who are feeling stuck and indecisive to trust their intuition, find clarity, and kick ass in the world. PIECE OF ADVICE I'D GIVE MY YOUNGER SELF: Your calling won't miss you. You'll be exactly who you think you will be, but better. I FEEL MOST AT HOME: With people I love. With my partner. And with women from all walks of life in a group setting. WHEN I AM INSPIRED MY MIND/BODY FEELS: Lit up like a Christmas Tree. I LONG TO: Support women in changing the world alongside me. ONE OUTFIT FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE: Black tank top, leggings, and a leather jacket. MY FAVORITE FORM OF PLAY: DANCE! BOOK THAT CHANGED MY LIFE: Untamed by Glennon Doyle WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT MYSELF: My confidence in myself and Spirit. WHAT I'D LIKE MORE OF IN MY LIFE IS: (If you'd like more time or money, describe what you'd do with more time or money.) More money to give back to my family and to the world. WHAT I WANT LESS OF IN MY LIFE IS: Expectations and other people's opinions. I AM MY BEST SELF WHEN: I'm teaching and speaking in front of a group of women. THE LESSON IN MY LIFE THAT KEEPS REPEATING IS: To trust myself, accept help from others, and to find interdependence. I CRAVE: Cake. I crave a lot of cake. And meaningful conversations. :) I CAN HARDLY TOLERATE: Kiwis and energy vampires. THE PEOPLE I INTERACT WITH THE MOST SEE ME AS SOMEONE WHO IS: Connected, warm, and loving. MY FAVORITE PLACE ON EARTH: The Mediterranean Sea. MY EVIL TWIN: Theodore from Alvin and the Chipmunks. He is always hungry! I WOULD LIKE TO REVOLUTIONIZE: How leaders in our world lead and show up. I LOVE: ALTAR :) & deep conversations, dessert, and all things PEOPLE. A SOUL-QUENCHING DAY IS: Around my people. Being by the water. Exploring a new place. No agenda. MY HUMAN DESIGN TYPE: 2/4 Self-Projected Projecter SUN/MOON/RISING SIGNS: Taurus Sun, Cancer Moon, Aries Rising BACK TO ALL TEACHERS

Meet Kristi Battalini, ALTAR Core Practitioner. Kristi is a 9D Breathwork Facilitator and Nutrition Therapy Practitioner offering events at ALTAR. Meet Kristi Battalini 9D Breathwork Facilitator and Nutrition Therapy Practitioner www.fuelthebeastnutrition.com Instagram: @fuelthebeastnutrition CLASSES I TEACH AT ALTAR 9D Breathwork Journeys I'm passionate about leading transformative breathwork sessions to explore the depths of the subconscious, hanging out in nature, and savoring a good latte and of course cool people. I DO WHAT I DO BECAUSE: We live in a crazy world, and I like to think I can help us get to a new norm where thriving is the norm. I LOVE: Fun people, coffee, naps, working out, online shopping, breathwork, hiking, a good mocktail and laughing my buns off. PIECE OF ADVICE I'D GIVE MY YOUNGER SELF: Worry less and express yourself more. BOOKS THAT CHANGED MY LIFE: Born to Run by Christopher McDougal Unlocking The Quantum Woman by Shamina Taylor Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins MY FAVORITE FORM OF PLAY: Live music and a good hike. WHAT I'D LIKE MORE OF IN MY LIFE IS: More travel, time to explore, more laughter, and more time with friends. ONE OUTFIT FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE: My workout tights and a comfy sweater. WHEN I AM INSPIRED MY MIND/BODY FEELS LIKE: Like I am floating on air, and super excited about life. I LONG TO: Travel to amazing destinations, sit by a fireplace, and drink my morning coffee as I stare at mountains. BACK TO ALL TEACHERS

Chicago's corporate meditation programs at ALTAR deliver measurable ROI: less stress, better focus, stronger leaders. Schedule your consultation. Why Meditation Matters The Business Case for Leadership and Organizational Transformation Today's corporate leaders face unprecedented challenges: decision fatigue from constant pivots, burnout from always-on work cultures, and the struggle to foster genuine connection in hybrid environments. These aren't personal failings—they're predictable outcomes of modern leadership complexity. Yet most organizations address symptoms while ignoring a foundational solution: meditation. Bring Meditation Into Leadership Strategy At ALTAR, we understand that the environments we inhabit shape our capacity to lead effectively. Our Logan Square sanctuary was intentionally designed to invite the presence, clarity, and authentic connection that distinguishes transformative leadership. Through Chicago-based corporate meditation experiences, we've witnessed how regular practice enhances the cognitive function, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness that leaders need most. Research confirms what we observe: meditation isn't wellness theater. In fact, corporate meditation is a foundational practice that directly addresses the root challenges of contemporary organizational life. Our women-led approach creates psychologically safe spaces where executives can reclaim the wholeness required for sustainable leadership, fostering cultures where power and healing go hand in hand. The Science Behind Meditation What Happens in the Brain When leaders commit to regular meditation practice, they're not just finding calm. They're fundamentally rewiring their brains for better leadership. The neuroscience is compelling and directly relevant to the challenges executives face daily: 01 Enhanced Executive Function Meditation strengthens the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for strategic thinking, complex decision-making, and impulse control. Think of it as upgrading your brain's operating system. Harvard neuroscientist Sara Lazar's groundbreaking research demonstrated that just eight weeks of meditation increased cortical thickness in the hippocampus and areas governing self-awareness and compassion —the exact capabilities that distinguish exceptional leaders from mediocre managers. For Chicago business leaders seeking sustainable performance, the science is clear: Corporate meditation is an evidence-based practice with significant benefits to leadership development. How Corporate Meditation Transforms Leaders The Executive Advantage The most compelling case for corporate meditation in Chicago is visible in the measurable leadership capabilities meditation develops. Research consistently demonstrates that regular meditation practice transforms how executives think, decide, and connect. Emotional Intelligence: The Foundation of Leadership Excellence Research published by the National Institutes of Health demonstrated that workplace meditation programs significantly increased emotional intelligence scores while decreasing perceived stress among administrators and staff. Leaders who meditate develop stronger self-awareness, better emotional regulation, and enhanced empathy. These capabilities distinguish transformative leaders from merely competent managers. Studies show that 90% of top performers excel at managing their emotions under pressure, and meditation provides the neural training that makes this mastery possible. Decision-Making: From Reactive to Strategic Perhaps meditation's most valuable contribution to leadership is improved decision-making under pressure. Research from Wharton and INSEAD found that even brief meditation sessions help executives resist the sunk-cost fallacy: the costly tendency to continue to sink good money into bad investments. Leaders who meditate make more rational choices by focusing on present information rather than letting past decision cloud their judgment. At General Mills, where over 500 employees have completed mindfulness training, 80% reported improved decision-making ability —a business outcome that directly impacts the bottom line. Presence and Authentic Connection In our distraction-filled digital world, leaders need authentic connection more than ever. Meditation strengthens the neural pathways between the prefrontal cortex and regions governing social cognition, enhancing leaders' capacity to truly listen and respond with empathy. Studies show that meditating leaders develop stronger "attention, awareness, and authenticity.” These qualities foster trust and psychological safety within teams, which in turn form the critical foundation for high-performing organizational cultures. Resilience: Leading Through Complexity Chicago's business landscape grows more complex every day, requiring leaders who can navigate ambiguity without burning out. Meditation builds resilience by regulating the stress response system, helping executives maintain steady performance across demanding circumstances. Leaders who meditate recover faster from setbacks, maintain composure during crises, and model the calm clarity their teams need during uncertainty. Strategic Thinking and Systems Perspective Meditation's impact on executive function extends beyond daily decisions to strategic thinking capacity. Regular practice enhances the ability to step back from immediate concerns and see systems-level patterns. Leaders report improved capacity for reflection, better integration of complex information, and enhanced ability to anticipate long-term consequences—precisely the capabilities boards expect from senior executives. Authenticity: Values-Aligned Leadership Perhaps meditation's most profound impact is helping leaders close the gap between their stated values and daily actions. The self-awareness meditation cultivates allows executives to recognize when stress, fear, or ego drives their decisions rather than principle . This alignment between inner values and outer behavior creates the authentic leadership that inspires lasting organizational change. Corporate meditation goes beyond wellness programming. Chicago business leaders seeking sustainable competitive advantage should not overlook this essential tool for developing the leadership skills that matter most for long-term success. Reduced Burnout and Higher Retention Studies show meditation programs significantly decrease psychological distress and burnout among employees working in high-stress environments. Organizations implementing regular meditation practices report improved employee retention—a critical advantage in Chicago's competitive talent market. The Organizational Impact Building a Meditation-Centered Culture The benefits of corporate meditation extend far beyond individual executives to create measurable improvements across entire organizations. Research demonstrates that workplace mindfulness programs effectively reduce stress, burnout, and mental distress while improving well-being, compassion, and job satisfaction. As the data shows, meditation programming isn't a perk. It's a strategic investment with documented returns in the metrics that matter most: reduced costs, higher productivity, better retention, and stronger culture. Our leadership team came to ALTAR ready to reset. After a demanding season, we needed space to reconnect—with ourselves, each other, and our shared purpose. ALTAR offered the ideal blend of structure and spaciousness, where the coaching we brought in could truly take root. With creative exercises and space for thoughtful conversation, we found clarity, cohesion, and a renewed sense of purpose moving forward. — Janet P. Szlyk, Ph.D. President & CEO The Chicago Lighthouse Backed by Research, Proven in Practice. Meditation’s impact on leadership, performance, and retention has been documented by leading research institutions, business publications, and global organizations. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Common Objections to Corporate Meditation, Addressed Despite decades of research validating meditation's business impact, skepticism persists. Let's address the most common concerns directly: "Meditation is too woo or spiritual for our culture." "We don't have time for meditation." "Meditation won't solve our real business problems." "Our leaders won't buy in." The question isn't whether meditation works for business. The research has answered that definitively. The question is how quickly your organization will leverage this competitive advantage. Getting Started How to Bring Meditation into Your Organization There's no single right way to introduce corporate meditation to your Chicago business. The most effective approach aligns with your organization's culture, readiness level, and specific goals. Here are some options to consider: Start Small with Leadership Team-Based Introduction Sustained Practice Options Immersive Leadership Development Integration with Existing Programs Start Small with Leadership Many organizations begin with executive meditation coaching or small group sessions for senior leaders. This allows decision-makers to experience meditation's benefits firsthand before broader rollout, naturally creating internal champions who understand the practice's value. Team-Based Introduction For organizations preferring wider initial exposure, team meditation workshops or lunch-and-learn sessions offer low-commitment entry points. These 60-90 minute experiences introduce meditation's fundamentals and immediate applications for workplace stress, helping teams gauge interest and identify early adopters. Sustained Practice Options Organizations ready for ongoing engagement can establish regular meditation circles or weekly group practices. These consistent touchpoints help employees build sustainable meditation habits while creating community around the practice—essential for long-term adoption and cultural integration. Immersive Leadership Development For leadership teams facing significant transitions or seeking deep transformation, full-day or multi-day meditation retreats provide intensive experiences. ALTAR’s immersive programs combine meditation practice with strategic reflection, team building, and leadership development in our intentionally designed sanctuary space. Integration with Existing Programs Meditation can be woven into current leadership development initiatives, team offsites, or wellness programming rather than existing as a standalone offering. This approach leverages existing infrastructure while enhancing programs you've already invested in. ALTAR works collaboratively with Chicago organizations to design meditation programs matched to where you are and where you're heading. Whether you're exploring meditation for the first time or expanding an existing practice, we'll help you find the right entry point for sustainable impact. The Research Supporting Meditation in Corporate Settings Ashley Nelson, one of ALTAR's featured experts in corporate meditation and leadership, and founder of Inseus , translates meditation research into practical business applications. Drawing on her background as both a Fortune 500 senior executive and dedicated mindfulness practitioner, she helps Chicago organizations understand what the evidence means for their teams. Ashley Nelson, Founder of Inseus The research is unequivocal Stress Reduction The corporate stress epidemic can’t be addressed by simply removing stressors. Instead, one must move through the stress cycle. As Ashley explains in her work with executives , simply eliminating a deadline doesn't signal to your body that the stress is over. Meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, moving you through the stress cycle and communicating physiological safety. Studies have found that meditation reduced emotional exhaustion scores by 8 points on the Maslach Burnout Index, compared to just 2.6 points in control groups, with a 31% decrease after just 8 weeks. Enhanced Productivity Meditation's impact extends beyond time saved to the quality of work produced. Research demonstrates that regular practitioners show improved sustained attention and faster reaction times with lower error rates on complex tasks. Other studies show that meditating employees make fewer errors due to enhanced attention control, reducing rework while demonstrating greater capacity for deep, focused work that drives innovation and competitive advantage. The Impact, at a Glance... 31% Reduction in Stress 150% + of Salary Saved Through Retention $2-4 Returned for Every $1 Invested Is Your Organization Ready? Signs Meditation Could Transform Your Culture Corporate meditation in Chicago isn't just for organizations in crisis. Forward-thinking leaders who recognize patterns limiting their team's potential will find meditation invaluable. Consider whether any of these sound familiar: Your leaders report high stress or decision fatigue, struggling to maintain clarity under pressure. Employee engagement or retention metrics are declining, despite competitive compensation. Your culture feels disconnected or siloed, with communication breaking down across teams. Leaders struggle with emotional regulation, reacting rather than responding in high-stakes moments. Burnout is visible across the organization, reflected in increased sick days and diminished performance. You want to strengthen your leadership pipeline, developing authentic, resilient future leaders. If you recognize these patterns in your organization, meditation may offer the transformative shift your culture needs. If these challenges feel familiar, ALTAR can help you design a meditation program that transforms how your leaders think, decide, and connect. Design a Meditation Program Next Steps Explore How Meditation Can Work for Your Organization Meditation isn't a luxury reserved for Silicon Valley tech companies—it's a strategic investment in leadership effectiveness and organizational health that delivers measurable returns. The research is clear, the business case is proven, and Chicago organizations across industries are already experiencing the benefits. ALTAR stands apart from generic corporate retreat providers through our women-led approach that prioritizes psychological safety and authentic connection. Working closely with corporate meditation expert Ashley Nelson, we create inclusive wellness experiences tailored to your culture, readiness, and goals. Whether you're exploring meditation for the first time or expanding an existing practice, we'll help you find the right approach for sustainable impact. Ready to explore what's possible? Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss how corporate meditation in Chicago could work for your specific context. This initial conversation is exploratory—no commitment, no pressure, just an honest dialogue about your organization's needs and how ALTAR can support your journey toward more resilient, effective leadership. Organizations across Chicago are discovering how meditation enhances their leaders' capacity to think clearly, decide wisely, and connect authentically. We'd welcome the opportunity to explore how it could work for you. Your Name* Your Email* Phone Number* Your Organization* Bring Meditation to My Team ALTAR's meditation and wellness programs are designed as complementary workplace wellness initiatives and are not intended to replace professional mental health treatment. Organizations should continue to provide appropriate mental health resources and professional support services for employees.