Environment & Health

Cardiac disease is the most frequent cause of death. More than cancer, far more than accidents and more than 15 times the number of automobile fatalities in the United States. Not only that, but heart disease often presents no symptoms! Yet, there are simple ways to ward off heart disease. Lets talk about how over lunch at The Executive Diner, 1400 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Plenty of free parking. Interesting opportunity to be announced at this event.

Free Full Body workout! We offer body weight, heavyweights, cardio/ Hitt/ Boxing and personal training. Nutrition plans health & wellness coaching as well. For more information and to redeem your free trial class and fitness analysis, contact Coach L at 365dmvfitnesstraining@gmail.com or (301) 747-3622.

Join us as we do an invigorating outdoor walk and talk in Historic Greenbelt MD. Our goal is to walk twice around the 1.4 mile path. Should take about an hour. Afterward, those of us interested will head to nearby Cedars of Lebanon restaurant for lunch and conversation. The address for GPS is Buddy Attic Lake Park. 555 Crescent Rd. Greenbelt, MD. Meet us in the parking lot. Thank you! .....Ross A.

The [One Spirit Martial Arts](https://www.virginiabjj.com/programs/kidsbjj) (OSMA) Youth [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) program is designed to help children build **confidence**, **coordination**, and **practical [self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense) skills** in a **safe**, **structured**, and **positive environment**. The **drop-in fee** for **non-members** is **$30**, payable at the door. This class is for students **six** to **thirteen** years of age and runs from **5:15 PM** to **6:00 PM**, providing a **focused**, **age-appropriate training session** that fits well into an after-school routine. Located in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia), OSMA is easily commutable from Oakton, Reston, Sterling, and [Great Falls](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Falls,_Virginia), as well as other nearby [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) communities. Parents are welcome to **stay and watch** \-\- OSMA has a **dedicated seating area** where you can comfortably **observe your child’s progress** during class; parents may also take advantage of the OSMA **guest WIFI** if they need an Internet connection. From a parent’s perspective, this class is about more than martial arts: children learn how to **move their bodies with purpose**, **stay calm under pressure**, **follow instructions**, **work with others**, and **build resilience**. Students are taught to apply [Gracie Jiu-Jitsu-based](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) self-defense concepts **responsibly**, with an emphasis on **control**, **safety**, and **respect**. What children will learn in this after-school program: * **Movement** and **coordination** drills * Practical **self-defense techniques** * Standing **takedowns** * **Ground techniques** and **positional awareness** * Position-specific **drilling** * Controlled **sparring** matches (age-appropriate and supervised) * **Games** and **fun activities** to keep kids engaged and motivated Whether your child is new to [martial arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martial_arts) or already active, this program offers a balanced mix of **skill development**, **physical activity**, and **confidence-building** \-\- all in a **supportive environment**.

**Bring a flash light.** Some of the walk is lit with street lights. Some is not. We will be hiking along the historic Alexandria waterfront down and through scenic Old Town to the Wilson bridge and back. Lovely views of the river, as well as of Old Town. Part of the walk is on the Mount Vernon Trail bike path. Hike is mostly flat, and on paved surfaces or board walk. Please note the hike leaves at 600PM sharp. There are bathrooms at the halfway point. **Meet at the small parking area closest to the bike path. First left on Marina Drive. Not the large marina parking area that is further along.** We walk pretty briskly around 3.4-3.8 miles an hour. I assume if you can’t keep up, you can always find your way back to the starting point. Hope you can join our group of stalwart regulars and cheery newcomers. Happy hiking. Most of the walk has street lights, but not all so, but bring a light.

Do you find yourself showing up in meditation sessions wondering why your mind won’t settle down?Are you trying to figure out why your body seems to become so uncomfortable in meditation sessions? Join Marsha, non-conventional meditator, certified yoga therapist, trauma sensitive yoga facilitator, and energy and sound healing facilitator, as we show up and unpack ways of meditating that uniquely resonate with you. Whether you find comfort in standing, sitting in a chair or on a yoga mat, or lying on the floor, eyes open or closed, you are welcome to show up just as you are, as we seek peace through movement and compassionate sharing experiences, while embodying the physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual benefits of meditation, energy + sound healing, and yoga therapy. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered both 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. Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.

What Ancestral Contracts are you carrying that don’t belong to you? Are you repeating the same story as your parents, grandparents and other ancestors? If the answer is yes join us Tuesday March 3rd for our Full Moon Breaking Ancestral Contracts Ceremony with Maestra Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes a recognized elder Shaman in our Curanderismo Tradition where you will be guided to break and release ancestral contracts holding you back and find freedom. We will finish ceremony with a soothing sound healing session. **What you may experience during this session:** -Ability to connect to your higher self and your Ancestors -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 Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes: Maestra Ixtoii Paloma** is an elder, instructor, or “Maestra” of the Curanderismo Tradition and also a full-time Curandera and Shaman. She was born and raised in Mexico into the tradition. She started working full-time as a Curandera in the 1980’s. In the late 90’s she moved to the UK and then to California (USA) where she kept her practice and started to teach Mexican Shamanism and Curanderismo and other spiritual modalities. Now not only does she teach in California, but also in other states and countries. It is important to know that she is not an anthropologist or historian. Paloma learned from her teachers in the ancient way, “oral tradition”. \*IMPORTANT NOTE: Paloma is a Mexican Shaman who believes that "medicine plants" are helpful to some people only when used properly in ceremonies. The use of any conscious expanding plant or animal medicines should only be used with the strict and loving guidance of an experienced facilitator. She does not allow the use of any plants, brews, ceremonial tobacco, recreational drugs, alcohol, cannabis, etc. in her workshops or healing ceremonies. Please do not use these before or during her events and services. If you do so you will be asked to leave the event immediately and without a refund. For medicinal plant or animal medicine guidance, please arrange for a private consultation to discuss your particular needs and expectations. **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Curandera and 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 unit5 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) * Tuesday March 3rd, 2026 * 6pm-730pm * Energy Exchange: $60 * 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\*\*\*\*

Join us for an engaging cooking demonstration focused on nourishing moms and moms-to-be! Learn how to prepare simple, affordable, and nutritious meals that support healthy pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and overall wellness. Our instructor will share practical tips on meal planning, portion sizes, and key nutrients for maternal health. Plus, you’ll get to sample delicious dishes and take-home easy recipes to try. All ages welcome; FREE. **William Beans Community Center** **[Register Here](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=cd6K140E0H5U282U3A4Q2K4I5W5Z566P1C5G4C4N6J0C5M4H5D55006U6C5D680D5L4E6C4O1I4O5S505A0B5L4M5N6H19624P6C4S0Y5U3M554V06715U535H1D5H515C&keyword=SPD-SPEC-GA-20260307+&keywordoption=Match+One&dayoption=All&beginyear=&location=&display=Detail&module=global&multiselectlist_value=&globalwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

Support your blood pressure levels and make mindful, low-sodium choices without sacrificing taste during this cooking demonstration. Learn how to create recipes that are low in added sodium and bursting with flavor! Registration required. All ages welcome; FREE. **Marlow Heights Community Center** **[Register Here](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=cd6K140E0H5U282U3A4Q2K4I5W5Z566P1C5G4C4N6J0C5M4H5D55006U6C5D680D5L4E6C4O1I4O5S505A0B5L4M5N6H19624P6C4S0Y5U3M554V06715U535H1D5H515C&keyword=SPD-SPEC-GA-20260304&keywordoption=Match+One&dayoption=All&beginyear=&location=&display=Detail&module=global&multiselectlist_value=&globalwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

This educational session explores essential strategies for managing and preventing hypertension. Participants will learn about risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and the impact of nutrition and exercise on blood pressure control. The workshop provides practical tools for maintaining heart health and reducing the likelihood of developing hypertension, empowering attendees to take charge of their well-being. Stay after the session for a free health screening! Ages 18 & up; FREE. **Evelyn Cole Senior Activity Center** **[Register Here](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=WT6C165L0Q003M48173F1T4A5V404Z4Y006R4I42411J6V5S5W6J6J6Y4V4Q51015G4F553Z0J5T4K6K4A1K4X5X6P5V6X5M5R6G520E4O6251686K5T555A5B6O6T4O53&keyword=ECSAC-SPEC-GA-20260303&keywordoption=Match+One&dayoption=All&beginyear=&location=&display=Detail&module=global&multiselectlist_value=&globalwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

\*\*DINE IN OR CARRYOUT (only between hours of 1-4 pm)\*\*\* We are so excited to once again share the delicious WFPB SOS-free food (whole food plant-based, sugar-, oil- salt-free) at Ahadu Ethiopian Cuisine in Burtonsville! Yohannes, the owner/chef, and his wife Feven will prepare a very special SOS-free completely plant based (vegan) buffet for our group, with regular and gluten-free injera available. https://www.yelp.com/biz/ahadu-ethiopian-cuisine-burtonsville https://www.facebook.com/Ahaduethiopiarestaurant/ Price: $32.99 (including tax) per person with regular or gluten-free injera ***Tips are not included in the price.*** Drinks included: Homemade Cinnamon Clove Ice Tea (SOS free, no added sweeteners) & Water \*\*\*\*There are around 40 seats in the restaurant. Those sign up and show up will get preferential seating. Pay as soon as you come in. PLEASE cancel your RSVP if you cannot make it so that someone on the waitlist will have the opportunity to attend. We want to be certain we have a full house as Yohannes puts a lot of effort into this special meal for us. \*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*Please comment below if you plan to dine in or carryout so that we can get a head count. Thank you!\*\*\*\*

Learn the key to vibrant health! Join and share in the camaraderie with others that are claiming their good health and have the same need for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This one-hour overview describes a seven-day program to cleanse and detoxify the mind, body, and spirit. Learn a structured approach to maintaining good health and new ways to renew and recharge. The wellness program is part of a seven-day process with two days of pre- and post-cleansing activities and three days of liquid cleansing with herbal teas, fresh juices, and hearty vegetable broths. This is a great way to start your new weight or health management program. The Conference Call phone details: 267 930 4000 Passcode 768113964# The overview begins at 6PM

I'm canceling my subscription as a Meetup organizer as of March 9th 2026. I have never made it a priority and I know anyone of you can do a better job than I did. I do believe that organizing like minded people together is important in the world we live in today. If any of you would like to take over the the leadership of this group and organize meetings for the members please let me know in the comments. I will contact you so we can transition the group to you.

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

Join us for a fun Saturday evening starting with dinner at Ranchero Kitchen at 6:30 PM, where we’ll be supporting an immigrant-owned local business. Pupusas: Beans, Potatoes, Veggie Homemade juices: Passionfruit, Tamarind, Horchata, Pineapple-cashew After dinner, we’ll head to Skate Zone 71 from 8:00–10:30 PM for skating, music, and good vibes. Come hungry and ready to roll! 😋🛼 Locations: Ranchero Kitchen 984 Morse Rd Columbus, OH 43229 (Same plaza as Ohio BMV license bureau) Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

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

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160