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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out aoda events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the aoda events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find aoda events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

AODA Events Today

Join in-person AODA events happening right now

FREE Women's Self-Defense Class at OSMA in Herndon, VA 🥋
FREE Women's Self-Defense Class at OSMA in Herndon, VA 🥋
Join our women’s BJJ self-defense class in Herndon, VA -- learn real techniques to escape holds, stay safe, and control larger opponents with leverage. 🛡️ In this **hands-on [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) seminar**, you’ll learn simple and effective [self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense) techniques to **escape grabs**, **break free from pins**, and ***stay safe under pressure***. Designed for **women and teens ages 12 and up**, this class offers a **safe** and **supportive space** to **build confidence** and **train at your own pace** with **trusted partners**. This course takes place in Herndon and is also well situated for participants coming from [Ashburn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashburn,_Virginia), Chantilly, and surrounding [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) communities who are looking for accessible women’s self-defense training. *No experience or special gear required -- just wear comfortable workout clothes and be ready to move!* This free women's self-defense class is also featured on the [Northern Virginia Martial Arts (NVMA) website](https://nvma.group/2026/01/26/womens-self-defense-class-osma-01-feb-2026-herndon-va/). **About the class instructor**: This class is taught by Eva K. Eva is a black belt under [Professor Pedro Sauer](https://pedrosauer.com/) and has been studying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over ten years. Eva teaches both the kids and adult classes, including the [women's Jiu-Jitsu program](https://www.virginiabjj.com/programs/womensbjj/), at [One Spirit Martial Arts](https://www.virginiabjj.com/) (OSMA) in [Herndon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia), VA. **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** ***What is BJJ?*** **Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu** (BJJ) is a [martial art](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martial_arts) and form of [submission grappling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Submission_wrestling) focused on using **leverage** and **technique** to **control** and **submit** an opponent through **chokes**, **joint locks**, and **positional dominance**.
Koryu bujutsu
Koryu bujutsu
Jujutsu
Sunday BJJ Open Mat at One Spirit in Herndon, VA 🥋
Sunday BJJ Open Mat at One Spirit in Herndon, VA 🥋
Join us every Sunday at [One Spirit Martial Arts](https://www.virginiabjj.com/) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) for open training in [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu): Research, Review, and Roll! 🥇 This is a **student-driven session** designed to help you explore what matters most to your BJJ development. Whether you want to **research techniques, review material from the week**, or **roll with different partners**, this open format gives you the flexibility to focus on your own goals. An **instructor will be present** to answer questions, offer feedback, and help troubleshoot positions, but the pace and flow of the session are entirely up to you. You can **drill, experiment**, or **get in some live rounds** in a relaxed and supportive environment. Open training is ideal for students who want to **refine their technique, test new ideas, and build confidence** through *consistent practice*. All skill levels are welcome -- come train, learn, and grow with the **[Northern Virginia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community](https://www.meetup.com/northern-virginia-martial-arts-group/)**! **Note:** We are located in **Suite #130**. The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20**, payable on-site.
🌱 Woodland & Water Resonance:  A Forest Therapy & Sound Bath Walk 🌊
🌱 Woodland & Water Resonance: A Forest Therapy & Sound Bath Walk 🌊
**🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌿 Description:** Early March, by the water, carries a different kind of awakening — **softer, reflective, spacious.** 🌊 Nestled around a 350-acre reservoir, Beaverdam Park offers wooded paths, natural-surface trails, and peaceful lake views. Forest and water meet here, creating the perfect setting to slow down and listen. ✨ We’ll begin with a **gentle, guided forest therapy walk** through the trees, pausing along the way to notice the stillness of the reservoir and the subtle signs of early spring. After enjoying a snack & sipping foraged tisane/tea while sitting near the water, we’ll settle in for an **immersive outdoor sound bath**. 🎶 Singing bowls and resonant instruments will blend with the soft lapping of water, breeze through branches, and birdsong overhead. The lake amplifies and carries sound in a uniquely soothing way — supporting nervous system reset, emotional clarity, and deep restoration. We’ll close with a silent walk back along the trail, taking in the serenity of forest and water. 🌿 **A morning of reflection, resonance, and renewal.** **🥾 What we'll do:** We will walk \~2 miles, depending on timing and the desires of the group. This is an out and back hike with minimal elevation gain or loss. **👋🏼 Meeting point:** Meet at 9:50am in the parking lot. We will start at 10am. **🚙 Parking:** Park by the National Recreation and Park Association building adjacent to Brambleton Community Park West. Google map location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qBEq9qVXnamC6H6E8 **🚻 Miscellaneous:** We will have access to a bathroom along the way. **🎒Preparation:** * Water * Layers of clothes based on the weather * A snack if you would like * ​Sturdy comfortable shoes * Bug spray * Sunblock & a hat **🪷 COST:** You must register with this link to attend- [Register Here!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/woodland-and-water-resonance-a-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath-walk) **🌐 WEBSITE: [https://imaginebeingwell.org/](https://imaginebeingwell.org/)** 🌐 **NEWSLETTER:** [CLICK HERE](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to Sign Up to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events. **⭐️ LIABILITY RELEASE:** With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings and workshops are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**
9/18 HOLES SUNDAY - WINTER GREENS  at HERNDON CENTENNIAL
9/18 HOLES SUNDAY - WINTER GREENS at HERNDON CENTENNIAL
http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/b/2/5/event_4871045.jpeg Greetings and welcome new members! WINTER GREENS - every Sunday until April Fool’s Day, no fooling 😊 Play 9 or 18 holes during the winter season. The 18-hole, par-71 layout features well-bunkered, undulating greens, gently rolling fairways, free-flowing tees, tree-lined areas along portions of the course, meandering creeks, and several water hazards. Herndon Centennial Golf Course 909 Ferndale Ave. Herndon, VA 20170 (703) 471-5769 http://www.herndongolf.com Greens Fee: 9 holes $34 walking/$48 riding; 18 holes $54 walking/$74 riding Pull Cart $5.00 *** Please stay mindful and keep pace with the group ahead of you to avoid congestion on the course. \*\*Note there is a $2 charge to sign up for this Meetup. This is a non-refundable fee used to cover no-shows and website costs. Each golfer is responsible for paying green fees to the course on the day of the event. If you fail to show up on the day of the event (without canceling 48 hours before the event, you will be responsible for your greens fees to the course. NoVA Golfers Association, LLC is a Meetup group only, and it is not responsible for any liabilities associated with the event.
Gold Mine and Great Falls Overlook. A Moderate 6.5 Mile Hike
Gold Mine and Great Falls Overlook. A Moderate 6.5 Mile Hike
**Gold Mine and Great Falls Overlook. A Moderate 6.5 Mile Hike** THIS IS A SECOND HIKE THAT IS LISTED FOR GOLD MINE DUE TO THE HIGH DEMAND. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THAT THIS HIKE STARTS AT GREAT FALLS PARK MD BECAUSE OF LIMITED PARKING AT ANGLER'S INN. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. This hike features the remnants of a quirky gold mine and the classic overlook of Great Falls. The mine was established by a Union soldier who was stationed along the Maryland side of the Potomac River near Great Falls during the Civil War. He noticed a glint of gold and after the war, he returned to the area, bought some farmland, and started mining for gold. Eventually, 30 small mines were opened by various prospectors. One of the largest mines was the Maryland Mine. Today, little remains of these mines, but there is a loop trail that passes by one of them. The hike starts at the Great Falls Maryland Parking lot. The hike passes by the mine remains, and offers splendid views overlooking the Potomac river and visits the classic overlook of Great Falls. All who sign up will go on the waitlist. Wednesday afternoon, hikers will be moved to "going" based upon their ranking on the going or waitlist of the original hike. **Please note**: You must sign up by 9:00 PM the night before the hike. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.001617, -77.247334 The Street address is 11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854. NOTE: From this address, follow signs down to the visitor center parking lot. NOTE: There is a $20 entrance fee per car unless you have a National Parks Pass. **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.5 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 590 ft Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead Fees: $20 or National Park Pass **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found [here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/690036e3ff6946c13bced978e7393968725ea6a1ed2958c0052a973f390e4af3). **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership).

AODA Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Dulles South Toastmasters
Dulles South Toastmasters
Dulles South Toastmasters club meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month at Gum Spring Library with the meeting hours 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm. Club Officers will be in the room at 3:15 pm to answer your questions and provide information. Guests are welcome. Pleas join us!
The Sacred Body - Health Improvement Club for Witches
The Sacred Body - Health Improvement Club for Witches
Do you have goals focusing on your health this year? In this group, be de-influenced by internet trends and companies making a quick buck and join fellow pagans, witches, and heathens in creating practices that build your connection to your body and wellness. **The focus of this group:** -Share on your own experiences with health topics, whether that is food wellness, strength building, mobility training, and coordinating group walks and physical activities. -Lean into our spiritual practice as a tool in manifesting our health goals. -Mindfulness activities that can improve your body-spirit connection. -Share your own thoughts and struggles in an advice-centered and solutions oriented space that is respectful, intentional, and empathetic. Have you heard about a new trend you want real life opinions on? Are you looking for strategies **About your facilitator:** Merlin is a local practitioner in Massage Therapy, Reiki, Group Fitness, and is interested in all around wellness. He has focused on his own health and wellness over many years and recognizes how much supportive community and intentional self-love is for finding value in a health journey. If you are seeking a supportive community with the intention of bravely sharing, being heard, and being present with others, please join us!
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee.  At Caffe Amouri in Vienna
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee. At Caffe Amouri in Vienna
Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.
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Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
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1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
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Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles
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4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
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Optional Questions: AI & Being Human
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7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
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Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning
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10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
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Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche
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13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
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Optional Questions: Work & Purpose
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16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
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Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection
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19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
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Optional Questions: Time & Mortality
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22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
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Optional Questions: Society & Culture
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25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
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Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy
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28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
[Hybrid] Quanta and Fields: The Biggest Ideas in the Universe (2024) by Sean …
[Hybrid] Quanta and Fields: The Biggest Ideas in the Universe (2024) by Sean …
…Carroll, 304 pages [Physics] • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=611358 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review Praise for Quanta and Fields: “Readers will be electrified by his discussion of wave functions, entanglement, fields, and so much more. From the most infinitesimal of subatomic particles to the seemingly vast infinities of the universe’s great expanse, Carroll’s latest inquiry illuminates, well, everything.” —Booklist "In that void between hand-wavy popular science and academic textbook, this modern, informative and engaging account of quantum physics ticks all the boxes. Carroll the Explainer at his very best." —Jim Al-Khalili ### About the Author Sean Carroll is Homewood Professor of Natural Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University, and Fractal Faculty at the Santa Fe Institute. He is host of the Mindscape podcast, and author of From Eternity to Here, The Particle at the End of the Universe, The Big Picture, and Something Deeply Hidden. He has been awarded prizes and fellowships by the National Science Foundation, NASA, the American Institute of Physics, the Royal Society of London, and many others. He lives in Baltimore with his wife, writer Jennifer Ouellette.
Sunday Sunset at Great Falls / Pizza Dinner
Sunday Sunset at Great Falls / Pizza Dinner
Let us enjoy a wonderful evening stroll at Great Falls - Maryland. Please note there is a $10 / car or $35 / annual entrance pass. The annual is well worth it to revisit this beautiful location. For those interested, there is an option to have yummy pizza nearby at Potomac Pizza afterwards. We will meet at 5pm in front of the Visitor Tavern Center.

AODA Events Near You

Connect with your local AODA community

Hacking the Stack: Using OpenSearch Dashboards as an Application Framework
Hacking the Stack: Using OpenSearch Dashboards as an Application Framework
**Agenda:** * 6-6:30 pm: Networking and food/drinks * 6:30-7:15 pm: Announcements and presentation * 7:15 pm-7:30 pm: Q&A and close-out **Hacking the Stack: Using OpenSearch Dashboards as an Application Framework** Most developers treat OpenSearch Dashboards (OSD) strictly as a visualization layer—a place for charts and graphs. They are missing the bigger picture. OSD is a powerful, untapped environment for full-stack application development. In this session, we peel back the architecture of **an enterprise-grade risk, compliance, and security platform built entirely *on top of* OSD**. We moved beyond simple plugins and pushed OSD to its limits to create a seamless, interactive application experience. Join us for a deep dive into the engineering reality of the OpenSearch stack, including: * **The Analysis:** Why the OpenSearch stack beat out the competition. * **The Build,** **Beyond Visualization:** How to implement custom React components to build complex workflows and interactive UIs within OSD. * **The Integrations:** Integrating Wazuh for agent management and ingesting data at scale. * **The “Gotchas”:** Honest, real-world lessons on data handling, state management, and what to look out for. **If you are ready to push your plugins from “reporting tools” to “robust software,” do not miss this session!**
Biodanza Washington DC
Biodanza Washington DC
Biodanza is now in Washington DC Weekly Wednesday evenings Come dance with us! **Worried?** **Anxious?** **Nervous?** Step away from the stress and into your body. Biodanza is a joyful, heart-opening movement practice that reconnects you to what’s real: your breath, your body, your emotions — and each other. With music, guided movement, and simple human connection, Biodanza awakens vitality, lifts your mood, and reminds you of the joy of being alive. **What to Expect:** ✨ Uplifting music & guided movement ✨ Connection without words ✨ A welcoming, inclusive group ✨ No dance experience required **Reserve your spot or ask a question:** at [www.biodanzausa.com](http://www.biodanzausa.com) on the “Classes” page Wednesdays Weekly 7-9pm Venue: Peastreet yoga in Dupont area close to metro
Kali and FMA training at OSMA in Herndon, VA ⚔️
Kali and FMA training at OSMA in Herndon, VA ⚔️
Learn Kali at OSMA in Herndon, VA: a beginner-friendly Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) class that builds coordination, timing, and confidence. 🔥 Experience FMA training through **partner drills**, **movement flow**, and **practical self-defense applications**. In this session you’ll: * Train classic **FMA weapon systems** such as **rattan sticks**, **training knives**, and **empty-hand applications** of Kali and Arnis. * Develop **coordination**, **timing**, **range awareness** and **reflexes** through **practical drills** drawn from Filipino Martial Arts traditions. * Improve your **conditioning**, **speed**, and **agility**: FMA’s weapon-based flow patterns and hand-to-hand transitions push both **mind** and **body**. Join a supportive community of martial arts enthusiasts in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) \-\- whether you're new to weapons training or experienced\, this class is designed to **challenge** and **reward**. This class is **open to all levels** and emphasizes **safety**, **precision**, and **continuous learning**. Whether you’re looking to explore **Filipino Martial Arts** (FMA) for **[self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense)**, **coordination training**, **weapons fluency**, or simply finding a **unique**, **dynamic workout** in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) -- *this is your class*. 👉 Come build real **skills**, boost **conditioning**, and ***train with great people*** \-\- j**oin us today and explore the flow and discipline of [Filipino Martial Arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_martial_arts)!** The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20**, **payable on-site**. We are located in **Suite #130** — let us know when you arrive and we’ll take care of the rest.
Beaverdam Reservoir Park & Lark Brewing Co.
Beaverdam Reservoir Park & Lark Brewing Co.
We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality
Reiki Share- Other healing modalities welcome- in person
Reiki Share- Other healing modalities welcome- in person
Leigh Ann Sutton, Reiki Master and Teacher, Access Bars Practitioner and Archangelic Light Master will host this event on the third Monday of the month. Open to any level healing and style practitioner. Come share your skills. Space is very limited (no more than 6 total) and masks will be required. Please add your name to the waitlist if full and be courteous in canceling if you cannot make it so someone else can join. Suggested Donation $10. Cross referenced under [Reiki, Angelic and Metaphysical Gatherings of the DMV](https://www.meetup.com/reikiandangelsdmv/) in Meet up. Check out my website for additional offerings and services https//www.exceptionalmindsopenhearts.com/
快乐之学--《菩提道次第广论》共学
快乐之学--《菩提道次第广论》共学
踏入《广论》研讨班,对许多人来说是开启生命转变的契机。或许您也会好奇:在繁忙的工作与生活之余,投入时间研读佛典,究竟能为人生带来哪些实质的成长与收获? 《广论》研讨班秉持着日常老和尚以心灵提升、圆满生命的目标,提供大众身、心、灵健康的学习环境与循序渐进的佛法课程。学员通过听师父的录音带和研讨交流,对佛法建立整体认识,全面的理解,同时学习如何将佛法智慧运用于生活中,打造幸福人生。 **《菩提道次第广论》简介** 佛法大全,给与您心灵滋养,人生方向 次第井然,引领您脚踏实地,步步向上 心智科学,帮助您认识自己,了解他人 幸福教育,教会您正确取舍,离苦得乐 生命教育,陪伴您创造希望,走向美好