Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction

Feeling constantly busy, overwhelmed, or stuck in your own thoughts? **UNBREAKABLE** is a 4-week journey inspired by the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita to help you understand your mind, steady your emotions, and experience real inner calm without giving up your ambition. ### Perhaps You’ve Noticed... * Life looks successful on the outside… but inside you feel restless * You feel stressed, burned out, or pulled in too many directions * The mind jumps between anxiety, overthinking, and mental exhaustion * Meditation apps feel nice...but don’t create real change * You want inner calm without giving up ambition ### UNBREAKABLE Gives You The Tools To * Calm an overactive mind and regain inner stability * Understand why stress and anxiety keep repeating in life * See the deeper purpose behind your struggles * Develop practices that bring clarity and emotional strength ### Week 1 **The Identity Shift:** The Self Beyond Stress Step out of “performance = worth” and discover your true self. ### Week 2 Why You’re Not Always in Control: Forces That Shape Your Mind **Understand the invisible forces driving our mood, focus, and reactions.** ### Week 3 Why Your Mind Keeps Switching Gears: How to Steady It **Learn to move from chaos → clarity → calm, even under pressure.** ### Week 4 Break the Pressure Cycle: Build a Daily Practice That Grounds You **Turn insight into habit — build a practice that makes inner calm permanent.** Through interactive workshops, practical tools, kirtan, and meaningful community, you’ll learn how to move from overthinking and stress to clarity, balance, and grounded confidence in your everyday life. ## **How It Works** 🕓 **Workshop (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM)** 90-minute interactive session each week 🎶 **Kirtan + Dinner (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) (Optional)** Live mantra music, connection, and a relaxed shared dinner 💰 **Your Investment: $149 (Full 4 Weeks)** Less than $40/week for workshop, kirtan & dinner 📍 **Location:** 108–110 Park St, South Melbourne ## Your Facilitator: Dr. Gopa * PhD in Wireless Technology, University of Melbourne * 10+ years studying and teaching the Bhagavad Gita * Practitioner of the Bhakti Yoga tradition Born in India, he grew up hearing about the Bhagavad Gita, much like growing up in Melbourne with footy all around you. Yet with a strong scientific mindset, he never took the teachings very seriously and instead focused on his career, education, and travel. That journey brought him to the University of Melbourne, where he completed his Master’s and PhD in Wireless Technology. During his time there, the Bhagavad Gita re-entered his life at a time when deeper questions began to arise: What is the purpose of life? What is my role in this world? Reading Bhagavad Gita As It Is, he was surprised to discover how profoundly relevant its wisdom was, not only for personal challenges like stress and confusion, but also for understanding the social, political, and economic complexities of modern life. What he had once thought was a religious text revealed itself as a universal guide to understanding the self and navigating life with clarity. After completing his PhD, Dr Gopa began applying these teachings in his own life. More than ten years later, he credits the Bhagavad Gita with transforming his vision, helping him find inner stability, purpose, and peace. Today, he lives a monk lifestyle within the Bhakti Yoga tradition and dedicates his life to sharing the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita in a way that is practical, accessible, and deeply relevant to modern life.

Turn Anxiety and Depression into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, depression, apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

Join us for the Mangala Sutta Lecture Series -a journey into wisdom, blessings, and practical teachings for everyday life. Guided by Shifu Shengchi, this 8-week series explores the timeless teachings of the Mangal Sutta, offering insight into how to cultivate true happiness, harmony and well-being. Starting: April 12,2026 (Every Sunday) Location: 7/663 Malvern Roac Toorak VIC 3142 Weekly Schedule: 10:30 - 11:00 Baduanjin Qigong (Eight Brocades) 11:00-12:00 Nianfo Meditatio 12:00-13:00 Vegetarian Lunch 13:00-14:00 Mangala Sutta Dharma Talk Whether you are new to Buddhist teachings or looking to deepen your practice, allare welcome.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** EVERY SUNDAY AT 11AM Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You'll gain insights into: * The true definition of the subconscious * How it generates unwanted emotions * Its real purpose and function * What determines the pressure it exerts on you But this isn't just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It's interactive and engaging - you can ask questions at any time. FREE ADMISSION Reserve your spot today. Seats are limited, so don't wait too long to sign up.

Join us in our cosy new centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our Centre's activities Browse our bookshop for books, incense and dharma items. 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

**Who We are..... 🤝** Our journey to bring people together began in January of 2022. The group was started with a simple intention to gather and meet some likeminded people - connecting through the powerful act of meditation and sharing our genuine selves while sitting in a circle that represents equality, harmony and wholeness( *we believe everyone in the circle is a teacher and a student at the same time)*. And over the last 4 years of consistently coming together, we have fostered a beautiful, loving, dependable community where members from all walks of life have experienced a sacred space to sit in silence together and meditate, share their authentic selves, give presence to others and forge meaningful and long lasting connections. The Meditations are guided by Sana(co-founder and host), who is a Trained and certified meditation teacher by the Meditation Association of Australia, and has been guiding meditations for 3+ years in corporate and community settings. ✨ **Do you wish to....** * Experience a simple yet powerful meditation and breathing practice to find calm, relaxation and clarity * Connect with like-minded people in your local community and foster meaningful connections * Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others * Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn) Or maybe you just want to... ☮️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet new people? Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **5 min guided meditation** to land into the space and connect within * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue, meetup membership and other costs, provide valuable resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present. **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need.

Sunday Evening Meditation 5.30 to 6.30pm Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our activities. Incense and other dharma books and items for sale 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

Sunday evening meditation from 5.30 - 6.30. Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Browse our shop for books, incense and dharma items. Find out what our Centre is offering 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

A gentle space to slow down and connect — Soulful Sundays is about real conversations, shared presence, and meaningful human connection. We meet in person for heart-to-heart conversations in a welcoming, respectful environment. This group is for those who value sincerity, depth, and mutual support. Conversations often explore life, purpose, growth, and the human experience — grounded, open, and real. If you’re looking to build authentic, lasting connections with like-minded people, you’re warmly welcome. Carlton Gardens, **Address:** 1-111 Carlton St, Carlton VIC 3053 **Where we meet: Royal Exhibition Building front steps.**

**What's going to happen?** There are 4 activities to choose from: **Connection Carousel** (structured conversations), a **Board Game Table**, a **Choose Your Own Adventure** hangout area, and a **Quiet Retreat Space**. Refer to the [detailed plan here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Where is it?** It's in the Sandringham Library event space, a short walk from Sandringham railway station. Refer to the [visual directions here to find it](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nVbe9zl_dzniTTEavz97LWCWiHfefDZZILYXjVxrAMs/edit?usp=sharing). **Who's it for?** Whether you have Adult ADD/ADHD, ADHD, Autism, or identify with any other neurodivergent traits, this event is a safe space for open discussions and support. Connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and learn from each other's unique perspectives on living with neurodivergence. Our goal is to foster a community where everyone feels accepted, understood, and empowered. Come spice up your neurodivergent journey with us!

**🌿 First Meetup: Gentle Picnic at Malvern Gardens** Join us for our very first gathering—a relaxed, low-key picnic where you can connect, share, or simply be in good company. This is a safe, non-judgmental space for anyone living with chronic pain or invisible illness. **Agenda:** * Arrive, settle in, and get comfortable * Introductions (optional—just say hello if you prefer!) * Light conversation, sharing experiences, or quiet companionship * Optional gentle activities like short walks around the gardens **What to Bring:** * Something comfortable to sit on (blanket, mat, or chair) * Any snacks or drinks you’d like to share or enjoy * Layers/clothing for the weather * Yourself, exactly as you are—no need to bring anything else. Participate and much as you feel like on the day. * Board games or books, writing or drawing materials if you fancy. No pressure! **Finding the Group:** * Look for a small circle of blankets near the central lawn area * If you arrive early or have trouble finding us, call or text [organiser’s phone/email] * I'll be wearing a snow leopard print scarf..; ) Come as you are and enjoy a calm, supportive space where you can exhale, be seen, and connect with others who understand. ***

🎶 Sunday Sesh at Boho 🎶 Want to hear some great blues? Come and join us for a soulful Sunday sesh filled with smooth sounds and laid-back vibes. Grab a drink, settle in, and let the music take you away 💫 See you at Boho this Sunday ✨

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'I'd Rather Not' by Robert Skinner. The blurb: 'From one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers comes an original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch *I was sleeping in what might reasonably be described as a ditch, though I tried not to think of it in those terms for morale reasons . . .* Robert Skinner arrives in the city, searching for a richer life. Things begin badly and then, surprisingly, get slightly worse. Pretty soon he's sleeping rough and trying to run a literary magazine out of a dog park. His quest for meaning keeps being thwarted, by endless jobs, beagles, house parties, ill-advised love affairs, camel trips and bureaucratic entanglements. Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. *I'd Rather Not* is about work, escape and that something more we all need. 'I was told this man came from the Adelaide Plains and so commenced to read his work. By the time I realised I'd been viciously misled and he actually grew up in Magill, it was too late. I was already completely in love with the book. It's an absolute bag of lollies.' —Annabel Crabb 'Robert Skinner writes with humour, intelligence and heart. Pick up this book and you may never put it down.' —Tony Birch 'This book is like a big, properly made gin and tonic drunk outside in a garden on a perfect Saturday afternoon.' —Cate Kennedy '…no other book brought me as much joy as this hilarious and deceptively artful collection, and in these uncertain times that is worth plenty.' —Michael Winkler 'No one writes better when the stakes are lower.' —Sam Vincent 'My heart leaps whenever I see Robert Skinner's by-line; I know I am in for a hilarious literary treat complete with wry pearlers, gallows truths and wicked timing. People will say he is Australia's Sedaris, but he's not. He's Robert Skinner and he's a bloody marvel.' —Anna Krien 'Brevity may be the soul of wit, but the nimble economy of this slim volume will make readers pine for more. A decidedly skewed, hilarious collection of life reflections and colorful storytelling.' —*Kirkus* 'Seriously the funniest book I've read all year. I can't stop thinking about Robert Skinner's forays into the most mundane and frustrating aspects of life - Centrelink, being a tour guide, applying for arts funding - and the shameless truths he not only reveals about himself but about us as a society. Read this book with a bottle of wine, and be alarmed and enlightened!' —Alice Pung 'If only all books were as funny, human and true as *I'd Rather Not*. I raced through it, marvelling and envious all the way.' —Michelle de Kretser 'Skinner has been compared to Oscar Wilde, but his book is as self-effacing as it is quip-witted.' —Beejay Silcox, *The Guardian* 'The best Australian books of 2023' 'Skinner has been called the Australian David Sedaris and it's easy to see why. Both have the same droll, self-deprecating humour and both mine their own lives for maximum mirth-making potential. [...] a book with a several-laughs-a-page quotient.' –Thuy On, *Arts Hub* 'The funniest book I have read for a long time' —Andy Griffiths, author of *The Treehouse* series" Goodreads rating: 3.71 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Here is the secret of being positive and free: Thinking positively is not enough. You also have to get rid of the negative thinking. Your mind is like a garden. You can plant many beautiful flowers in it, but if you don't get rid of the weeds when you plant your flowers, the weeds will soon take over the whole garden. A positive thought is like a flower in your mental garden, and a negative thought is like a weed. You cannot expect to have a positive mindset if you continue to have negative thoughts dwelling and growing there. So, how do you get rid of the negative thoughts? That's what this Meetup is all about. Attend this local meeting and find out! The Meetup event will be led by a consultant who had helped many people live happier in life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

**Hosted by Unity of Columbus \| Facilitated by Carisa Holmes\, EFT Practitioner** Join us for a powerful and uplifting workshop where you’ll be introduced to **Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping**—a simple, effective method that helps release stress, calm the mind, and restore emotional balance. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us carry tension, anxiety, and emotional blocks that impact our well-being. This interactive session will guide you through practical techniques you can use anytime to create a sense of peace and clarity.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Why are we unhappy? Where does emotional pain come from? Studies show that people who suffer from long-term emotional pain have painful experiences in their lives that were never fully resolved in their mind. In other words, there were issues in the past that were not completely dealt with. This can include abuse in childhood, breakups, divorce, death of a loved one, to name a few. How do you know whether you have gotten over something painful? Here is an easy test: Do you still have attention on what had happened to you? For instance, do you still find yourself thinking about something painful that you went through? If you are, then you are not over it. In fact, in severe cases, people find themselves playing a "tape" in their mind over and over again. So how do you heal from your past? How do you stop the "tape" playing in your mind? In this meeting, you will learn a technique to help you with that. Come join us! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

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!