Peace

**UPDATE + info about the walk** Update: 4/17/26 9P -- The event is still on. Weather services are still predicting the rain to start after 8A, so we'll keep it closer to an hour. Do come prepared for rain just in case. Looking forward! Check here for updates in the event of potential bad weather, or if I have to cancel due to a personal issue. Basically, if it's not snowing, raining heavily and without lightening/thunder, we're probably still on. But always make your choice based on your needs and preferences. * It's great to RSVP so we know if you may be on your way. **Peaceful, healing, mostly silent walk in Walnut Creek Park near Parmer and N Lamar.** The opportunity is to slow down and connect with the generous residents of this amazing forest, and discover greater kindness, space and open curiosity within. **\* Current schedule** is 7AM Tuesdays and Saturdays. Check this page for cancellations.
I don’t create separate events currently as that’s too expensive. **\* Meet at Walnut Creek Park, 12138 N. Lamar Blvd · Austin,** on the paved trailhead off the first parking lot as your driving into the park from Parmer on Willow Wild. **\* Look for me:** I'm 5'7", have glasses, often carry a wooden cane, and have white hair that's either being its wild self or pulled up/back in some sort of twist. **\* Inclement weather policy:** If the forecast includes active or likely lightening or heavy downpour, then stay safe at home. I'll update this page in those instances. **\* All levels of walkers are welcome.** The pace tends towards easy rather than speedy, and always accommodates whoever joins and the energy of the moment. **\* Mobility:** We spend most of our time on paved trails, and occasionally walk on generally smooth dirt trails. If you use a walker or need to bring a stroller, bring it on! We'll happily make it work. These walks are free, and I very much appreciate contributions if you feel so moved. Zelle 3233213061 Venmo @lvp-432; last4 3061 Binoculars, sketchbooks and cameras are welcome. Stopping for photos or to make a note on my phone is just part of it, for me. As is the energy healing that just flows in forests. Additionally as a Reiki practitioner, I'm in constant energy exchange with the forest throughout our walks. This healing energy is available to any who want it, and you can internally choose to accept that energy, or not. \* Over time, I'll be adding related reading suggestions and other supporting information of interest about Reiki, forests and how they communicate, how the terpenes help our human bodies, etc. **Indemnity and Hold Harmless Notification** As a participant, you agree that, by participating in these walks, it is assumed that you have read and agreed de facto to the following: \* Reiki is not a medical treatment, and cannot replace any medical treatment or my doctor's recommendations. \* You are fully responsible for your own well-being and indemnify and hold harmless the event organizer and other group members. \* Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult who assumes full responsibility for the minor and also indemnifies and holds harmless the event organizer and other group members. \* Unaccompanied minors will not be allowed to participate in these events. Valid ID may be required as proof of age. \* You understand that this is an outdoors event, and as a participant you may experience exertion and environmental factors such as heat, rain, wind, cold, etc. You may also encounter uneven surfaces, wasps, ants, low-hanging branches, animals including dogs owned by other walkers not part of our group, and other hazards. By participating in the event, you accept these and other risks consistent with the setting and environment and thereby indemnify and hold the event organizer and other participants harmless. \* You understand that, by participating, it is assumed that you have read and agreed to these Indemnification and Hold Harmless clauses. P.S. Right now we meet only at Walnut Creek Park, the Lamar/Parmer trailheads. If you have suggestions of other Austin-area parks to enjoy and support, let the organizer know.

CTPS meets once a month from September thru May. This month of April our Saturday meeting is a Plein Air outing. Next month, May, is our last meeting of the season, and is a member brunch. If you missed the pastel painting demonstrations, the on-site painting sessions, gallery exhibits, etc. from this past year, please stay signed up here, and all meetings will be announced here, starting in September 2026. Or, visit our website! **https://www.centexpastel.com**

Saturday In-Person Writing Session – Join Us! Join us every Saturday at 9 AM for a live writing session at Lamppost Coffee on E Main in Round Rock. Whether you're diving into your novel, working on a short story, or just looking to get some words on the page, this is a welcoming space for writers of all kinds. * Drop in anytime during the session * Get feedback, give feedback, or just write * Say hello and meet fellow local writers Interested in organizing a future write-in, attending a writing conference, or submitting to a flash fiction contest? Let us know! We’re always looking for new ways to support our writing community and sharpen our craft. **Lamppost Coffee** 201 E Main St #101, Round Rock, TX 78664 If you don't see us at the big table in the front, check in the back room! See you on Saturday!

Even if you've never played beach volleyball before, I can show you how you can start having more fun on a sand volleyball court. If you have played before, would you like to \* know where and how to stand while you're waiting for the ball? \* move through the sand more quickly? \* get to the ball in time more often? \* cushion the ball so it doesn't hurt even if it's hit hard at you? \* be able to aim the ball when you pass ("bump") it? \* know which player you should pass the ball to? \* "set" the ball so that your teammate can attack ("spike") it? \* get more of your serves over the net, in bounds, and with more power? \* learn how to approach a "set" ball so you have time to hit it? \* hit the ball with more control and power? We'll learn the keys to all of these skills and practice them so that they begin to feel more comfortable and familiar. If there's time and interest, we can do some exercises and/or play short games. \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- I recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting sandy, sunglasses to help your vision in bright sun, and sandals/slides to avoid getting sand in your shoes. You may also want to bring a towel to help wipe the sand and sweat off your body. \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- Use the monthly [calendar](https://www.meetup.com/i-love-austin-but-i-need-some-f-g-friends/events/calendar/) to see upcoming events at a glance.

The Council of Solace is a special meditation where we gather to direct our spiritual energy to help bring about healing and peace to the world. Many people do this as part of a daily practice in service of others and find it to be a personally enriching experience that provides them with a sense of renewal. Please join us as we gather for a noontime meditation each weekday.

***Free Yoga For Mental Wellbeing***. This session offers tools to bring balance to the body and mind for a holistic experience of inner wellbeing. The practices offered include: * **Nadi Shuddhi**: A yogic practice that cleanses the *nadis* – the pathways through which pranic energy flows – resulting in a balanced system and psychological wellbeing. * **Miracle of Mind Meditation**: A 7-minute guided meditation empowering you to take charge of your mental wellbeing. Daily practice brings health, dynamism, peace and well being. Benefits: * Enhances vitality, focus, memory and productivity * Stabilizes the body, mind and emotions * Reduces stress and anxiety Location:Desi District - 12301 W Parmer Ln, unit 801, Cedar Park, TX, US, 78613 Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM **-** 9:45 AM CDT Open to all ages 7 and above. Those 7-17 to be accompanied by a parent/guardian. RSVP:https://online.innerengineering.com/en/event-details/23281 Contact Details; Austin@ishausa.org 512-655-9589

Even if you've never played beach volleyball before, I can show you how you can start having more fun on a sand volleyball court. If you have played before, would you like to \* know where and how to stand while you're waiting for the ball? \* move through the sand more quickly? \* get to the ball in time more often? \* cushion the ball so it doesn't hurt even if it's hit hard at you? \* be able to aim the ball when you pass ("bump") it? \* know which player you should pass the ball to? \* "set" the ball so that your teammate can attack ("spike") it? \* get more of your serves over the net, in bounds, and with more power? \* learn how to approach a "set" ball so you have time to hit it? \* hit the ball with more control and power? We'll learn the keys to all of these skills and practice them so that they begin to feel more comfortable and familiar. If there's time and interest, we can do some exercises and/or play short games. \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- I recommend wearing comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting sandy, sunglasses to help your vision in bright sun, and sandals/slides to avoid getting sand in your shoes. You may also want to bring a towel to help wipe the sand and sweat off your body. \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- \-\-\-\.\-\-\- Use the monthly [calendar](https://www.meetup.com/i-love-austin-but-i-need-some-f-g-friends/events/calendar/) to see upcoming events at a glance.

[Get Details and Register Here - $25.00](https://dailyreikiaustin.com/round-rock-reiki-share/) This event is turning into one of our favorite monthly community moments! Please join us in the peaceful space that is the Mind's Eye Plants Yoga Room for a deeply powerful afternoon of Reiki and connection. This Reiki Share is open to practitioners of all levels — whether you’ve just taken your first class or you’ve been practicing for years. Even if you got your attunement MANY years ago and haven't practiced since! This event is perfect to get you back into the flow! We’ll gather in community, take turns on the table, and each receive Reiki from the group. It’s a beautiful chance to both practice your healing art and soak up some much-needed, incredibly powerful Reiki yourself, all while meeting and connecting with other practitioners. If you've never had Reiki given by multiple practitioners at once, this is a must try experience. Space is limited, so be sure to save your spot! Tea will be served.

This event is quickly turning into one of our favorite monthly community moments! Please join us in the peaceful space that is the Mind's Eye Plants Yoga Room for a deeply powerful afternoon of Reiki and connection. This Reiki Share is open to practitioners of all levels — whether you’ve just taken your first class or you’ve been practicing for years. Even if you got your attunement MANY years ago and haven't practiced since! This event is perfect to get you back into the flow! We’ll gather in community, take turns on the table, and each receive Reiki from the group. It’s a beautiful chance to both practice your healing art and soak up some much-needed, incredibly powerful Reiki yourself, all while meeting and connecting with other practitioners. If you've never had Reiki given by multiple practitioners at once, this is a must try experience. Space is limited, so be sure to save your spot! Oh yes, and tea will be served. Apr 19, 2026, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Mind's Eye Plants and Round Rock Reiki, 100 E Main St [#202](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/202/), Round Rock, TX 78664 [Reserve your space here.](https://dailyreikiaustin.com/round-rock-reiki-share/)

Another one of my favorite outside venues! And this band is amazing! Come join me for fun with dancing, maybe singing along, socializing and I’m sure drinking will be done! Details below, copied from one of our amazing fellow groups: °Join us for a FREE live concert with North of Luck-Austin's high-energy cover band spinning rock hits and party favorites all night long Bring your lawn chairs, dancing shoes, and good vibes! Meet us for a bite to eat and socialize. No cover. Free parking. Let's rock Cedar Park -see you at the birdy!

**Let’s build the kind of friendships that make life richer.** **Once a month we gather for a relaxed and stylish Sunday Brunch at one of North Austin’s great restaurants. Each event is a chance to connect with other amazing women, share stories, laugh over great food, and create genuine friendships.** **This group is for women in their mid-30s to mid-40s who enjoy good conversation, positive energy, and building a supportive circle of friends.** **Each month we’ll rotate restaurants so we can explore some of Austin’s best brunch spots while creating a community of women who enjoy showing up for each other.** **Come if you enjoy:** **✨ Good food & brunch cocktails** **✨ Meaningful conversation** **✨ Laughing until your cheeks hurt** **✨ Meeting intelligent, kind, fun women** **Our goal is simple: build a great group of women who enjoy life together.** **Bring your good vibes and we’ll see you at brunch.**

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, April 22 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

In the midst of life’s storms—whether in relationships, work, or within ourselves—it can be difficult to find clarity and calm. The “I” Of the Storm: Embracing Conflict, Creating Peace, based on the work of Dr. Gary Simmons, invites you to discover the steady center within—the part of you that remains grounded even when everything around you is in motion. Led by Brian Drafton-Griffin, this engaging workshop offers practical tools and meaningful insights to help you navigate conflict with greater awareness, compassion, and confidence. Through guided discussion and reflection, you’ll learn how to shift from reaction to response and transform challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!