Creative Non-Fiction

Let's start the year as we mean to go on, with a nice new red that's no walk in the park! A gateway to the South Down National Park. With its hidden gems and quintessentially English scenery, it has a rich tapestry of wildlife, landscapes and tranquillity. Stretching across around 1,600km squared of England, from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east. 🔴 **HIKE:** 📏 24km (15 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 737m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.2km/h 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 📍 **Waterloo: Opposite Platform 3** 🔄 Start/End: **Petersfield Station** **/** [Waterloo Station] ⌚Meet from 8:08am, the train departs at **8:30am** *[arrives 9:34am at* Petersfield *\| Return train estimate: 16:24\]* 🎟️ Train Tickets: You are welcome to purchase your own ticket. **It is best to purchase with a Network Rail Card or group discount.** *Purchasing on the day is recommended.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced.** 💳 [**PayPal Here (£25.75)**](https://paypal.me/mubasher001/25.75) Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your **Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). ⌛Deadline: Wednesday: 9:01pm *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Waterloo / Onboard train / Petersfield / possible at cafe 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/boots, water bottle [1.5/2L], packed lunch & snacks to keep you going! 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter hikes) 🗂️ "No shows" / late removers for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims/)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BB1WYW-S3R)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

**London's first multi-sensory aerial relaxation experience with live ambient music, gongs, aromatherapy and aerial hammocks. An Oasis of Calm in our Busy Lives.** # Aerial Relaxation Pods - Sound Journey Gong Bath Meditation in Hammocks ### **ABOUT AERIAL RELAXATION PODS™** London's first **multi-sensory aerial relaxation experience with a short guided meditation, live ambient music: gongs, crystal bowls, vocals, other live instruments and nurturing electronica, aromatherapy eye pillows and scents, sky-blue silky aerial hammocks** to soothe your stresses away and lift your spirit! **A very unique, next level sound journey experience!** *"An oasis of calm in our busy lives."* Londoners stressed out by their busy lives can now turn to Aerial Relaxation Pods™ to transform their tension to calm, and restore the body’s natural healing wisdom. ***(please confirm all dates / times / venue via eventbrite. Not all dates are correct on meetup!)*** **PLEASE NOTE:** Please book via eventbrite. There are very limited spaces, and no sales on the door. an RSVP here on meetup is not a ticket! **For more information and bookings:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/aerial-relaxation-pods-sound-journey-gong-bath-meditation-in-hammocks-tickets-84883457707?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/aerial-relaxation-pods-sound-journey-gong-bath-meditation-in-hammocks-tickets-84883457707?aff=oddtdtcreator) *“Our pods are here to help Londoners relax. As a former teacher myself, I am fully aware of just how busy and stressed a lot of people are. And most of us just don't find the time to unwind. Our **Aerial Relaxation Pods** are going to help you alleviate stress, providing time & space to allow your body to deeply rest, harmonising your nervous system. You’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed after one session.” -* Seth Newman, co-founder of Aerial Relaxation Pods**™**.

If you want to join this game you need to do so using http://www.footyaddicts.com -- - 1 hour casual football - 3G artificial grass surface - Closest station Highbury & Islington - Please be on time ---- RSVP for this and any other game ONLY via http://www.footyaddicts.com Join us today and play football every day! Football games for everybody, anytime, everywhere!

NEW 7 a side casual football game for South Londoners - 1 hour game - 5 GBP per person - KO 6pm - Casual football just for fun - No shouting, no aggressive behavior Join directly via Footy Addicts platform http://footyaddicts.co.uk/games/543aa9606c6932620dba3300

# Join Us for an Epic Night at Albert’s Schloss in Soho! 🎉🍻 Get ready for an unforgettable evening at **Albert’s Schloss**, the coolest German Alpine bar in the heart of Soho, London! 🏔️✨ Step off Shaftesbury Avenue and dive into a vibrant fastnacht filled with Alpine charm and Soho swagger. We’re gathering **downstairs RIGHT OF THE STAGE UP THE STEPS see photo.** See photofor a night of pure fun! 🕺💃 **What to Expect**: * 🎶 **Live Music & Entertainment**: The main stage comes alive with joyous sounds that’ll have you dancing on benches! * 🍴 **Delicious Alpine Feasting**: Savor mouthwatering dishes from the Cook Haus, bursting with hearty flavors. * 🍺 **Central Bier & Cocktail Bar**: Sip on frosty biers or expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. * 🪑 **Cozy Vibes**: Grab a spot in a booth, perch on a bar stool, or join the party on communal benches—everyone ist willkommen! 📍 **Where**: Albert’s Schloss, 20-24 Shaftesbury Ave, Soho, London 📌 **Meet Us**: We are right of the stage downstairs. Some steps for elevated area Come for the drinks, stay for the music, and leave with memories! Let’s make it a night to remember at this Alpine gem. 🥨🎤 See you there! 😎 \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

SEE SIX of LONDON'S IMPRESSIVE LLUMINATED BRIDGES on this walk, followed by SOCIALISING with CHEAP FOOD and DRINKS in a convivial pub atmosphere. Commencing with a walk through Battersea Park and the fabulously illuminated Albert Bridge followed by a walk passing the new Battersea Development Complex and encompassing all of Central London's illumininated bridges from Lambeth Bridge to Waterloo Station where our walk ends. PLEASE NOTE THE LATER THAN USUAL START TIME OF 3.30PM. WALK START POINT: The new BATTERSEA POWER STATION on the Northern Line). WALK DISTANCE: Approx 4 miles. WALK ROUTE: Commencing with a walk through Battersea Park followed by a walk passing the new Battersea Development Complex and encompassing all of Central London's illumininated bridges from Lambeth Bridge to Waterloo Station where our walk ends. WALK END POINT: Waterloo Station WALK STOP OUT POINT: Nearby bus routes and stations during most of the walk. Enjoy London! Get out and see your City in the company of new people and great friends. Walking is one of life's great social activities. **Social Event**: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk. We always end the walk at a pub with a convivial atmosphere where the socialising can continue. *Be sure to join us in the pub for the whole experience!* A £5 meetup organiser's contribution is payable if you do not hold the Ken's Events Card. The walk is free for holders of this card. Please arrive in good time to allow opportunity to use toilets at the start of the walk as there may not be any toilet breaks available during the walk. WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) DISCAIMER All Ken's Events are subject to a disclaimer. Please click here [http://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](http://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer. Please post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group and only post photos of other members with their consent. Kens Events also has a Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter accounts. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) Instagram Page [Kenswalks](https://www.instagram.com/weekendgreenwalks/) Twitter [@KenEvents](http://www.twitter.com/KenEvents) Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join. [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) If weekday and evening walks are your thing, then you should join Ken's Weekday and Evenings Walking Group. Click here for more information. [(https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/)](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-WEEKDAY-EVENING-WALKS/) When you arrive at the station look for Ken with Kens Events Flag outside the station. RAIN POLICY: Our walks normally go ahead as planned even if it rains. Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, please check back to this webpage on the morning of the event around 10am for the latest update. Tell your friends you are going! GENERAL RISKS for all WALKS: In the walks in this group we use; country stiles,pavements, cross busy roads, public parkland, paths alongside water, bridlepaths, country lanes and other established paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Wear good sturdy shoes/walking boots. To avoid insects, thorns, and stinging nettles, bare legs are not recommended. Take care as surfaces may be uneven, there may be low branches and some paths are also used by joggers and cyclists and sometimes cars (country lanes). Some tracks may be muddy and slippery. On occasion we may encounter wild and farm animals. If you require insurance for these walks you must arrange this yourself. No small children or large dogs please.

**Kickstart the New Year - Get Creative and Confident!** **Saturday 3 January - 1 30pm** **[CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)- [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235) Start the year with 90 minutes of fun, developing your creativity and meeting new people! **Kickstart the New Year** is an in-person applied improv session designed to help you feel more confident, think more creatively, and connect with others — without pressure or performance. Through simple, playful **storytelling and improvisation exercises** in pairs and small groups, you’ll explore new ways of communicating, sharing ideas, and responding in the moment. Everything is gently guided, low-stakes, and designed to be inclusive. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of laughter, and practical takeaways. If you’re curious, open-minded, and up for trying something different, you’ll fit right in. **No experience needed. Just bring yourself.** **VENUE:** The Umbrella Rooms, 241 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8EH This session will be led by **Dave Bourn** founder of Sprout Ideas, who teaches improvisation, devising, and creativity at University. Dave got a degree in Computer Science before changing careers and has been teaching improv since 2002. **[CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)- [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)

🌌Ever look up like I do and marvel with insatiable curiosity at both the beauty and wonder of the **universe?** That wild sobering thought that somewhere in the chaos of creation - the emergence of life - the universe became **conscious** enough to look back and ask the big questions; How it all started, our evolution and place in it, and where else in the cosmos other complex life might exist (almost every star you see at night has planets orbiting with up to **20 billion habitable exoplanets** easily in our galaxy alone!)? 🪐🌟🌟🌟 🌍Then RSVP to view the potential life harbouring moons of **Jupiter**, the 3I Atlas **interstella** **Comet** ☄️(estimated to be 8+ billion years old), the famous **Orion Nebula** where stars like our sun were born, the majestic rings of **Saturn**, the international space station, the Tau Ceti star system with **2 Earth like planets** orbiting in the habitable zone, remnants of **supernova** witnessed by our early ancestors plus a range of other fascinating celestial wonderments (comets, star systems, galaxies) over drinks and engaging chats and banter this Dec fully hosted by me - a passionate amateur astronomer and former global Journalist covering big picture stories including cutting edge science related ones. 🚀In between observing - we'll have **drinks and engaging chats** on all astronomy related topics for those inclined (space exploration, Fermi Paradox, Astrobiology, Cosmology, paleontology, SETI/Drake Equation, exoplanetology etc) as well as non space chatter and banter too. No doubt I'll hear the usual jokes we've all heard hundreds of times before! If those don't make you laugh, then my impersonation of Los Angeles ET will! 👽 **======= Joining Astronomers Group & Telescopes =======** I'm able to take a limited number of people (please only RSVP if you can make it) to join my friendly informal relaxed London amateur astronomers' club that have been for over a decade with their regulars made up of up to about 150 people. As there will be people attending from this private Astronomers group as well as others from one of my other groups - the total attendees will be far higher than rsvps here and the public liability insurance only covers a max number of people - hence I need to impose strict limits on attendance. Over the years we have enjoyed numerous social evenings of stargazing and thought provoking chatter with people of all ages and varying levels of astronomy knowledge - so complete beginners that are genuinely curious about the universe are very welcome. If you are just looking to meet generic randoms then there are others groups that will better cater for that. The world renowed **BBC Television Sky at Night** also attended our events pre covid and interviewed some of us for it's show that aired on BBC1 in Feb 2019. BBC **Radio London** (94.9 FM / digital) were there Aug 2023 to cover our meteor shower event broadcasting live to millions of Londoners for 3 hours You don't need a telescope as you will be able to view through scopes belonging to me and other club members (as long as you behave responsibly and don't temper with expensive equipment). If you have your own telescope/binoculars feel free to bring along and I can help you setting it up if you're a newbie **==== Food & Drinks With Seating From Warm Indoor Cafe ====** Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, cider only), hot drinks and food/snacks will be available to purchase from an indoor cafe at the observation point which Regent's park keep open exclusively for the astronomers group so please don't bring your own drinks **==== ITINERARY =====** We will meet outside Camden Station. After a short wait for anyone delayed, I will escort everyone to our observation point in the local park 15 minutes walk away and brief you in terms of what to expect, observing etiquette, tips, equipment handling and take any questions you have - weather general or astronomy/cosmology related. **After Drinks:** Unless I have a very important 9AM Thursday deadline for a client presentation or something that I'm still gonna be writing 2 mins before start - most of us usually head our way back to Camden for another drink. If so - I will annouce the pub when we leave the park **==== What Can You Expect To See (this time of year)? ====** * Orion Nebula * Jupiter and 4 moons * Meteors * Andromedia Galaxy * Saturn, rings & moon * Star clusters such as the Pleiades & Owl Cluster etc * International Space station fly by * Venus & Mercury * Binary & tripple star systems (think planet *Tatooine in* Starwars!), * Neptune * Uranuus * Mars * Our moon * A look towards the galactic centre where that supermassive £22b Labour black hole sits (Sagittarius A) More here from Jodrell Bank Observatory/Astrophysics Centre: [http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/](http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/) Guide to viewing the cosmos for beginners: [https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp](https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp) **===Weather Dependent=====** The event is subject to clear skies forecasts on the night so if on the actual afternoon of the event the weather forecasts looks unsuitable beyond doubt then I will postpone so please check the event status on the day of the event . If this event is still listed here at 5PM on the day, it will be going ahead at the designated day and time! Happy Stargazing Lucas Skywalker - The Singin, Dancin, DJin Astronomer

Today we are incredibly fortunate to have an opportunity to see the work of the Italian artist Caravaggio. We will discuss his life and his art before visiting the Wallace Collection to see Caravaggio's Cupid, entry is free. Then we'll head out to apply chiaroscuro and shoot high contrast images. Caravaggio adopted *chiaroscuro* in his paintings in the 16th century- his work beautifully combines a realistic view of the human state- physical and emotional- with a dramatic use of lighting. *Chiaroscuro* is an Italian term referencing the contrast of light (chiar) and dark (oscuro) to model three-dimensional forms. It’s a style that has quite dramatic results and one that photographers can learn a lot amount about lighting from studying. **Join us for a workshop in 3 parts:** * Part 1: Informative session on the incredibly interesting life and work of Caravaggio * Part 2: Visit the museum * Part 3: Shoot chiaroscuro style * We will also discuss street photography tips EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT * Alex +44 7956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa) Photo ©Caravaggio

\*\*\* This is not an event; it is a quick link to get to the event! \*\*\* Imagine a life where you call the shots – no boss, no income limits, freedom to work when it suits you, just extra income leading to financial freedom. In this meeting, we’ll reveal the *very first steps* to turn that dream into reality. Ready to take control? Join us!. (More details in the event in the link) **1, To attend this event, please go to this link: [https://www.meetup.com/takingaction/events/](https://www.meetup.com/takingaction/events/),** **2,** Look for the next event in the list called "Taking Action - First Steps to Financial Freedom" **3a,** Open the event and RSVP yourself to the event, **3b,** Follow the link to the very cheap subscription! **Look for the cheap subscription option!**

If you crave depth and genuine connection, join a walking think tank of curious people, topics spark meaningful conversations, and you leave inspired. ## Details [The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

## Kickstart the New Year - Get Creative and Confident! Saturday 3rd Jan - 1.30pm **[CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)- [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235) Start the year with 90 minutes of fun, developing your creativity and meeting new people! **Kickstart the New Year** is an in-person applied improv session designed to help you feel more confident, think more creatively, and connect with others — without pressure or performance. Through simple, playful **storytelling and improvisation exercises** in pairs and small groups, you’ll explore new ways of communicating, sharing ideas, and responding in the moment. Everything is gently guided, low-stakes, and designed to be inclusive. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of laughter, and practical takeaways. If you’re curious, open-minded, and up for trying something different, you’ll fit right in. **No experience needed. Just bring yourself.** **VENUE:** The Umbrella Rooms, 241 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, WC2H 8EH This session will be led by **Dave Bourn** founder of Sprout Ideas, who teaches improvisation, devising, and creativity at University. Dave got a degree in Computer Science before changing careers and has been teaching improv since 2002. **[CLICK HERE TO BOOK](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)- [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstart-the-new-year-get-creative-and-confident-tickets-1978893669235)

*** **Afternoon Coffee Social at Tate Modern Corner Cafe followed by Gallery Exploration** 🎨 Get ready for an exhilarating day immersed in art, culture, and connection at the world-renowned **Tate Modern**! 🌟 Join us for a memorable social event at one of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks, where creativity knows no bounds. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station, Tate Modern is a global beacon of modern and contemporary art, showcasing groundbreaking works from legendary artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney, alongside innovative installations that push the boundaries of imagination. 🖼️ Its striking industrial architecture, vibrant exhibitions, and stunning views of the Thames make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and social butterflies alike! 😍 On this exciting day, you’ll dive into a treasure trove of awe-inspiring artworks, from bold paintings to thought-provoking sculptures, with plenty of dynamic events and activities to spark your curiosity. 🎭 This is more than just an art outing—it’s a vibrant **social event** buzzing with opportunities to meet fascinating new people, share ideas, and make lasting connections. 🙌 Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! **🕒 Please arrive promptly at the start time** to kick off the day with our lively group! Here’s the plan: 🚨 **We’ll meet at the stylish new bar and café, CORNER**, located at Tate Modern. ☕🍹 This trendy spot offers the perfect vibe to start our adventure, with delicious drinks, a relaxed atmosphere, and a prime location to gather before we explore the galleries. 🖌️ Look for Zen to dive into the action! 🚨 https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern/corner Expect a day filled with artistic wonder, lively conversations, and new friendships waiting to bloom. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of Tate Modern in the best company! 🎉 Grab your spot, bring your enthusiasm, and let’s make this day one to remember! ⚡️ ### Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! **🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/zensocietyofexplorers/](https://www.instagram.com/zensocietyofexplorers/) **⚠️ For anyone having trouble RSVPing to our events using the App, you need to uninstall it and use the website instead. The app is broken.** **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment below] **You must introduce yourself when you join or you will be removed.** IMPORTANT: Once you have joined the group READ the Whatsapp Group Description for the rules. These include: ASK permission in-person or using the @ tag before DM unless in THE DM ROOM whatsapp group. Do not promote other events, paid or free. Do not post or invite to other groups. DISCLAIMER ON MEETUP PAGE APPLIES. Host and Organiser and "Zen" is not responsible in any form for anything that arises from use of these groups. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from both. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/london-social-exploration/events/](https://www.meetup.com/london-social-exploration/events/) [https://www.meetup.com/london-socials-for-singles/events/](https://www.meetup.com/london-socials-for-singles/events/) **Disclaimer**: By attending this event you agree that your safety is your own responsibility. By attending any event you agree that the organiser/host is not responsible or liable for the safety of any member, or any member’s guests. By attending the event you accept our policy. This event will be held in conjunction with a non-singles meetup group

The topic for January is "Chemistry" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 7:00 pm, show starts at 7:30 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Attend a free seminar on how to have successful and lasting relationships. At this seminar you will learn: How to spot and handle negative and toxic relationships. How to get through the "rough patches" in a relationship. How to choose the right people to work with. The three things that make or break any relationship. How to make a good relationship great. All are welcome. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. Hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).