Awareness and Mindfulness

Mindfulness Meditation group practice every Wednesday evening at Unity of Gaithersburg. Mindfulness practice is not about achieving some special state of mind; it is more about noticing the experience you are having without trying to change it. This interesting video suggests why you might sit and watch your mind wander off. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmmBF8eTl18 This noticing tends to shift your nervous system from a 'fight-or-flight' state to a more relaxed and receptive state. In this receptive mental state, you begin to see your own experience differently and, over time, see other people and the world differently. Also, it is good for you: "the effect of regular meditation on the cortex was so profound that fifty-year-old meditators had a prefrontal cortex that looked like that of a twenty-five-year-old" [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT) Here is an interesting and funny take on meditation by Ajahn Brahm: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs). If you arrive on time, there will be an introduction at the beginning, if you arrive late, find a chair and join us. There will be some discussion after. This is a free event, but contributions to the church's expenses are welcome. You can just show up this Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays. More information at [https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org](https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org/)/

Mindfulness Meditation group practice every Wednesday evening at Unity of Gaithersburg. Mindfulness practice is not about achieving some special state of mind; it is more about noticing the experience you are having without trying to change it. This interesting video suggests why you might sit and watch your mind wander off. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmmBF8eTl18 This noticing tends to shift your nervous system from a 'fight-or-flight' state to a more relaxed and receptive state. In this receptive mental state, you begin to see your own experience differently and, over time, see other people and the world differently. Also, it is good for you: "the effect of regular meditation on the cortex was so profound that fifty-year-old meditators had a prefrontal cortex that looked like that of a twenty-five-year-old" [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT) Here is an interesting and funny take on meditation by Ajahn Brahm: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs). If you arrive on time, there will be an introduction at the beginning, if you arrive late, find a chair and join us. There will be some discussion after. This is a free event, but contributions to the church's expenses are welcome. You can just show up this Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays. More information at [https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org](https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org/)/

Our chakras are energy centers that influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. When they are aligned, we experience harmony, increased energy, and a greater sense of peace. During this serene and relaxing experience vibrational sound will travel into your energy centers in a soothing sound bath journey. Allow yourself to wash away stress and clear any stagnant energy. As you lie comfortably, the soothing sounds of crystal bowls and calming instruments will resonate through your body, harmonizing each chakra from root to crown. This sound bath is designed to promote deep relaxation, enhance your emotional well-being, and restore your inner balance. No Experience necessary. All you need is an open heart to welcome the sound medicine. **What you may experience during this session:** -Chakra Balancing -Ability to connect to your higher self and your Ancestors -Improve Sleep -Improve emotional balance -Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace -Ability to create self-love and improve relationships -Stress Relief -Connection with like minded individuals **What to bring:** -Your own water bottle -A pen and notebook \- A Yoga mat \(or use one at the studio\) -A blanket ( or use one at the studio) -Eye mask (if you have one, this will enhance your experience) -Comfortable clothes to breathe and lay down (If you are very sensitive to sound you may wear earplugs) **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Curandera Shamanic healer. She offers a variety of ceremonies, workshops, and group events to assist everyone in bringing back balance into their mind, body, and spirit. Private bookings are available for healings and readings. If you would like to book a private tarot reading before/after the sound healing send an email to [healing@curanderasheart.com](mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com) or text (703)531-7046 **Details** * Address: Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit#5 Arlington VA 22205 (We are located on the second floor above trade roots coffee shop. Must enter on the side of the building and go upstairs) Our studio is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA a walkable neighborhood with plenty of food options and street parking.(Please arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time, space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe) Wednesday 6pm and Sunday 5pm * Energy Exchange: $45 * Info: [healing@curanderasheart.com](mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com) 703\. 531\.7046 call or text \*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or canceled reservations\*\*\*\*

Tuesdays\, Wednesdays \| 12:15pm\-12:35pm Take an afternoon break and intentionally cultivate inner peace, mindfulness and concentration, No previous experience is necessary. No special clothing is required. Just show up! Each 20 minute session will include: * A short introduction to the meditation for the day * A guided meditation to relax and refresh body and mind * Advice for the day ahead No experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome! **REGISTRATION** Standard: $5 \| Financial Hardship Available \| Free for [Members](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/) [Pre-Register Here](https://meditation-dc.org/quick-class-registration/#top) Each class is available by drop in. Everyone is welcome to attend, no previous experience is required. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

**Tired of surface-level conversations?** Join us for *Real Talk*—an evening of deep, real connection with strangers who are down to go there. We’ll meet at the church (we are a secular group), break into small groups, and draw questions from a deck of cards designed to spark vulnerable, honest conversations. ***Rules:*** 1. Don't debate politics. 2. Keep what is shared in the group within the group. 3. If you need to use your phone, step away from your group first. \*\*If you show up late, please hop into a group and don't interrupt the speaker. Just sit down in a group of your choice, and they'll bring you up to speed when whoever is talking finishes. Community of Christ church: 3526 Massachusetts Ave. PS—If you want to support the group (Meetup organizer fees, new card games, misc. materials) then you can buy me a coffee here: https://buymeacoffee.com/dillantaylor ^^This is 100% optional, and can be done on a one-time or monthly basis. But the meetup will always be free. Thanks! 🙏

Join us for an Interfaith Harmony Week Open House, a welcoming community gathering focused on respect, cooperation, and practical help across faiths and cultures. This open house is hosted by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, a global humanitarian program dedicated to helping individuals and communities overcome challenges and strengthen understanding—no matter their background or beliefs. Interfaith Harmony Week is recognized worldwide as a time to build bridges, encourage dialogue, and celebrate our shared humanity. This event is open to people of all faiths, traditions, and those with no religious affiliation at all. **What You’ll Experience** A friendly, open environment for conversation and connection Learn about the Volunteer Ministers’ tools for helping people help themselves Informal discussion on interfaith cooperation, compassion, and community resilience Meet people who care about peace, understanding, and real-world solutions Light refreshments and a self-guided tour through our Public Information Center. **Who This Is For** Anyone interested in interfaith dialogue and harmony Community members who value practical help and volunteerism People curious about Volunteer Ministers’ humanitarian work Those looking for positive, uplifting community events No prior knowledge of Scientology or Volunteer Ministers is required—just an open mind and a willingness to connect. **Event Details** This is an Open House, so feel free to stop by, ask questions, explore, and stay as long or as little as you like. All are welcome. Admission is free

Flow, breathe, and center yourself as you explore the transformative power of Vinyasa, where movement and breath unite to create a harmonious flow of energy. This dynamic class incorporates sun salutations, standing postures, backbends, and floor stretches—each designed to challenge your strength, balance, and flexibility. Advanced variations are taught along with modifications. Each session is anchored by a thoughtful theme inspired by yoga philosophy (sutras), providing a deeper theme for reflection and self-growth. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice, challenge yourself, or simply find a community of like-minded individuals, this class is designed to empower and inspire. Expect a dynamic and playful class that encourages both individual exploration and a sense of connection with others. This practice will leave you feeling refreshed, centered, and connected. The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Wake Up DC Sangha for young adults - third practice session Saturday, February 7, 2026 1:15 PM - 3:30 PM Dear friends, This is a warm invitation for young adults aged 18-35 (at heart) to join Wake Up DC Sangha's third practice session on Saturday, February 7th 2026 from 1:15 PM - 3:30 PM. Practice will be held at: Opening Heart Mindfulness Community 3812 Northampton St NW Washington, D.C. 20015 Program of events: 1:15 - 1:30: Arrival 1:30 - 1:40: Introduction to practice 1:40 - 2:00: Guided sitting meditation 2:00 - 2:20: Walking meditation 2:20 - 2:40: Offering of Teachings 2:40 - 3:20: Dharma Sharing 3:20 - 3:30: Closing Friends are asked to arrive prior to the start of seated meditation. Cushions will be provided.

Join us for Opening the Heart, a sacred and serene gathering designed to guide you inward through gentle meditation and heart-centered inquiry. In this safe, supportive space, we will slow down, breathe deeply, and listen attentively to the whispers of our inner world. Together, we will explore a series of carefully crafted, heart-prompting questions—questions that gently invite us into the deeper corridors of our being. Through silent reflection and optional sharing, participants are encouraged to meet themselves with compassion and open vulnerably to the group if they feel called. This is not a space for fixing or analyzing, but for presence, authenticity, and courageous sharing. Whether you choose to listen or to speak, your presence is welcome and honored as we collectively tap into awareness. What to Expect: Guided heart-centered meditation Reflective journaling prompts Optional group sharing in a circle of trust Practices to foster self-connection and emotional safety Come as you are—bring a journal, a pen and a willingness to meet yourself and others with tenderness, love and respect. Space is limited so a RSVP is required. This also helps us to notify you in case of any changes. FIRST TIMERS: No prior experience necessary. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early so you can get situated. You are also welcome to walk our grounds or check out or crystal shop. IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS: The address is 15406 Riding Stable rd. Property is at end of 1/2 mile driveway into the woods. you will drive over a small stream. Please be EXTRA MINDFUL to drive slowly (under 10 MPH) as to not stir any driveway dust. It is a shared driveway so it's important to respect our neighbors. Please do not stop to interact with horses. COST: To help make this affordable to all, we have an offering range of $15-$25. If you would like to contribute in another way, please let us know. With Love and Gratitude

**Immerse Yourself in a Live Soundscape Journey!** Join us for an extraordinary evening with Zac as he guides you through a transformative auditory experience that will transport you to a realm of tranquility and mindfulness. This is not just a sound event; it’s a journey for your senses and soul. **Experience the Magic of Sound Therapy** Step into a world where the soothing sounds of nature blend seamlessly with the familiar rhythms of everyday life, all set against a backdrop of ambient electronic music. Zac has meticulously curated this unique blend to create a meditative soundscape that is unlike any other. **Discover the Benefits** * **Relaxation:** Let the harmonious sounds wash over you, melting away stress and tension. * **Enhanced Focus:** Tune into the subtle layers of sound to sharpen your concentration and mental clarity. * **Mindfulness:** Engage fully with the present moment as you are enveloped in a rich tapestry of auditory sensations. **A Unique and Meditative Experience** Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the world of mindfulness, this live soundscape journey offers something for everyone. Zac’s expert blending of natural sounds, everyday ambiance, and electronic soundscapes will guide you to a place of deep inner peace and heightened awareness. **Pillows and blankets will be provided for your utmost comfort as you unwind and expand internally. Escape the daily grind and discover profound relaxation within.** Please drive SLOWLY (below 10 MPH) down the driveway. The house is located at the end of the driveway. Arrive 10 minutes early to settle in and get comfortable. Cost $20

During the month of February we celebrate love & relationships – but what actually is love?! Join us for a meaningful and enjoyable Friday Night Lecture and walk away knowing how to improve relationships of all kinds. During this event you will learn how desirous attachment, aka “sticky desire”, in our close relationships and friendships is almost always confused for love. Even though they have opposite effects — love causing happiness in the relationship, attachment causing problems and unhappiness in the relationship — it is not easy for us to distinguish between them without receiving clear teachings. When we do know the difference, we can enjoy our relationships so much more. * **COST** General: $12 Members: Free Financial Hardship: $6 Dinner(Optional): $7 * **Event Schedule** Fri., Feb. 6 from 7 to 8:15pm

**You Are Not Your Situation. So, Who Are You?** **Your circumstances don’t define you.** Life can place us in roles, responsibilities, and situations that quietly begin to shape how we see ourselves. Over time, challenges, titles, relationships, or past experiences can blur our sense of identity, leaving us feeling limited, overwhelmed, or disconnected from our inner strength. This reflective and empowering session invites you to pause and look inward. We’ll explore the difference between **who you are** and **what you are going through**. Rather than being defined by external circumstances, you’ll reconnect with your deeper, unchanging self, the source of clarity, resilience, and inner peace. A grounding experience for anyone navigating change, uncertainty, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding and peace from within. ***(In person at the Meditation Museum in Silver Spring, MD)*** Sat., Feb., 7th, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/imJHv](https://shorturl.at/imJHv)

Join Us for Simple Tools to Start Meditating Today! If you have ever wanted to meditate but did not know how to begin, this class is for you. People meditate for all sorts of reasons: to relax; calm down; relieve stress; improve relationships; understand themselves; tap into their potential; find meaning and purpose in life and awaken their spirituality. What if the calm, clarity, and inner strength you’re seeking could begin with one simple practice...meditation? Join us to begin incorporating meditation into your daily life. Free Event - Donations Appreciated.

**Wash away the weeks stress! Fill your own cup of self-care and self-love with a candlelight sound healing experience with the harmonic vibrational sounds of the gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls and many other high frequency instruments that will leave you feeling relax and rejuvenated.** **This is a laying down experience with No Experience necessary. All you need is an open heart to welcome the sound medicine.** **What you may experience during this session:** * Stress Relief and deep relaxation * Ability to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divine * Relief physical pain * Release anxiety * Improve emotional balance * Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace * Ability to create self-love and improve relationships **What to bring:** * Your own water bottle * A Yoga mat (or use one at the studio) * A blanket ( or use one at the studio) * Eye mask (if you have one) * Comfortable clothes lay down * A pillow if you want to get extra comfortable. **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Curandera Shamanic Healer born into the Curanderismo tradition that utilizes Traditional Curanderismo Shamanic Healing modalities past down from previous generations. Her core values are to LIVE IN HARMONY with great spirit, the elements, nature, animals and people. DO NO HARM TO OTHER PEOPLE, PLANTS OR ANIMALS. In the traditional Curanderismo that Jenny practices the foundation is LOVE AND RESPECT to the spirit world, towards animals,plants, people,free will and the elders who guard the curanderismo tradition (Los Abulitos de la tradicion). Private bookings are available for ancestral healings,energy clearing , energy balancing and tarot readings. If you would like to book a private energy session or tarot reading before/after the sound healing session send an email to [healing@curanderasheart.com](http:// "mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com") or text (703)531-7046 ( Visit our site for more information on our upcoming ancestral healing ceremonies, trauma release ceremonies, cacao ceremonies, full moon ceremonies, women circles, breathwork sessions and energy clearing ceremonies to bring balance to mind, body and spirit) Stay connected via IG @curanderasheart **Details** * Address: Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit#5 Arlington VA 22205 (We are located on the second floor above trade roots coffee shop. Must enter on the side of the building and go upstairs) Our studio is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA a walkable neighborhood with plenty of food options and street parking.(Please arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time, space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe) * Every Friday Evening 6pm-7pm * Energy Exchange: $45 * Info: [healing@curanderasheart.com](http:// "mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com") 703\. 531\.7046 call or text \*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or canceled reservations\*\*\*\*

Join us at **Unity of Columbus** for *Spa for Your Soul*, a restorative and inspiring workshop designed to nourish your spirit, awaken your inner wisdom, and reconnect you with the sacred rhythm of life. Drawing from the rich spiritual insights of **Matthew Fox** and the timeless theological wisdom of **Thomas Aquinas**, this workshop invites participants into a deeper experience of spirituality rooted in compassion, creativity, and divine presence. Together, we will explore spirituality not as something distant or abstract, but as a lived, embodied experience—one that honors joy, justice, beauty, and the inherent goodness of creation. Through guided reflection, gentle spiritual practices, discussion, and contemplative moments, *Spa for Your Soul* offers a sacred space to release stress, renew clarity, and remember the divine spark within. This is an opportunity to pause, breathe, and tend lovingly to your soul—much like a spa experience, but for your inner life. Whether you are seeking spiritual refreshment, deeper understanding, or simply a peaceful space to be present, this workshop welcomes you exactly as you are. **Come, rest, reflect, and renew—your soul deserves it.**

Meeting Room 3B, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. This first gathering is a simple introduction to the spirit of the group and a chance to meet others seeking deeper meaning and community. All backgrounds are welcome.

**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

We are excited to host Guided Meditations on Sundays at 6 pm in our Ashram/Gallery/Home! !! !! Everyone wants to know what kind of God we worship and what kind of meditation we do. We worship the GOD that LOVES US! We understand that god is an energy and it lives in us as us. Our meditations guide others to actually experience that energy! xoxo We don't just talk about peace, love and affection, we experience it :) Also we are a home not a business, so we enjoy building community one friend at a time. We always build in time for people to mingle & develop friendships! xoxo Much Love, Frank Tennyson Namaste, Frank Tennyson http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/f/9/9/600_447824953.jpeg

This is a FREE, in-person workshop about mastering the science of reading people and predicting their behavior. **Stop guessing and start LEADING.** Join us for a FREE and highly interactive seminar, where you will learn to use the Emotional Tone Scale to read people, predict behavior and handle any objection with ease. The edge you'll gain: * ****Read People**:** Instantly decode human behavior. * * **Predict Actions:** Know their next move before they make it. * * **Influence Others:** Master the tools to win in work and life. * * **Build Trust:** Know exactly who to trust and how to handle them. * Attend this workshop and start developing the mindset of success! **Seats are limited. Reserve your spot today!** Hosted by: Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215

The emotional pain from past bad experiences easily lingers in the present, making it hard to enjoy life and create your future. Even when you think you've moved on, the negative emotions can be triggered, sending you back into the pain of that experience. And we are talking about pain; emotions such as grief, depression, anxiety, fear (or terror), boiling anger, simmering resentment, feelings of shame, blaming and regret can leave you incapacitated to a greater or lesser degree. In this local event we will be discussing the reasons why these past bad experiences have the power to affect you long after they occurred. We'll go over why the emotional pain can be so strong. We'll also discuss some simple solutions to overcome your emotional pain and be free to fully enjoy your life again. Examples of painful experiences include: * A broken relationship or divorce. * Death or loss of a loved one. * Death of a pet. * A sudden shock or bad news. * A betrayal. * Being part of an abusive relationship. * A bad injustice. * Loss of a job, position or business. * A grave illness or injury. The negative emotions from these experiences don't just go away on their own. But the good news is there is a way to clear them out of your way. 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 sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

This is a FREE, in-person workshop about mastering the science of reading people and predicting their behavior. **Stop guessing and start LEADING.** Join us for a FREE and highly interactive seminar, where you will learn to use the Emotional Tone Scale to read people, predict behavior and handle any objection with ease. The edge you'll gain: * ****Read People**:** Instantly decode human behavior. * * **Predict Actions:** Know their next move before they make it. * * **Influence Others:** Master the tools to win in work and life. * * **Build Trust:** Know exactly who to trust and how to handle them. * Attend this workshop and start developing the mindset of success! **Seats are limited. Reserve your spot today!** Hosted by: Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215