Free Thinker

A time to be creative together with others. **Bring whatever creative project you would like to work on** \- your sketchbook\, bullet\-journal\, crochet/knitting or embroidery project\, your creative writing piece\, etc\. The theme is your own free choice\. Participation is free but **at least one drink or food consumption is expected. ** There are materials available in the café if you currently don't have your own project.

**Cinema RITCS : Enter the Void** 23/02 @ 19h00 It has been eight years now since Gaspar Noé released his notorious rape-revenge film Irréversible, an ultra-violent, ultra-extreme movie that effortlessly exceeded in shock value anything, by anyone, at any time. I myself, having admired his previous feature, Seul Contre Tous, reacted fiercely against it as a piece of macho provocation. Rereading my review now, I find none of its points wrong exactly, but I have to concede the possibility that I was just freaked out in precisely the way Noé intended. Having staggered out of the auditorium, my eyeballs still vibrating from the director's trademark sado-stroboscopic white light display, I may well have succumbed to a convulsion of disapproval. Enter the Void is, in its way, just as provocative, just as extreme, just as mad, just as much of an outrageous ordeal: it arrives here slightly re-edited from the version first shown at Cannes. But despite its querulous melodrama and crazed Freudian pedantries, it has a human purpose the previous film lacked, and its sheer deranged brilliance is magnificent. This is a grandiose hallucinatory journey into, and out of, hell: drugged, neon-lit and with a fully realised nightmare-porn aesthetic that has to be seen to be believed. Love him or loathe him – and I've done both in my time – Gaspar Noé is one of the very few directors who is actually trying to do something new with the medium, battling at the boundaries of the possible. It has obvious debts, but Enter the Void is utterly original film-making, and Noé is a virtuoso of camera movement. [...] Some may find Enter the Void detestable and objectionable, though if they affect to find it "boring" I will not believe them. For all its hysterical excess, this beautiful, delirious, shocking film is the one offering us that lightning bolt of terror or inspiration that we hope for at the cinema. [Cinema RITCS](https://www.cinemaritcs.be/production/enterthevoid/) [Peter Bradshaw for The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2010/sep/23/enter-the-void-review) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Do you want to become a confident public speaker? To communicate better and connect? And have fun? Come and join the Atomium Toastmasters of Brussels. You'll find a supportive learn-by-doing environment. It doesn't matter if you are an experienced speaker or if you are a guest. We are there to support you, to make you feel good about yourself and to help you learn in a way that's fun. We have lovely Table Topic sessions (impromptu speeches) and 3 to 4 prepared speeches. Through practice, peer evaluation and educational tools, we learn how to present our messages effectively, concisely and professionally. And.. we are excited to welcome you on Monday. Entrance free on the first Monday of the month. Atomic Team

Want to feel more confident when speaking in public – in any language? Do you live in Brussels and speak Spanish, but often find yourself switching to English or French at work? **Armada Toastmasters** is the perfect place to practise expressing yourself clearly and confidently – whatever the language. We are a bilingual Toastmasters club where communication and leadership skills grow together – in a fun, supportive setting. Next meeting: Second & Fourth Monday of the month 19:30 – 21:30 Elzenhof, Kroonlaan / Avenue de la Couronne 12, Elsene / Ixelles (Room 2.1) Why join Armada Toastmasters? ✔️ Practise public speaking with prepared speeches and impromptu exercises ✔️ Improve your communication and leadership skills ✔️ Receive constructive feedback in a positive environment ✔️ Meet a vibrant, multicultural community – many of us speak Spanish too! Meetings are in English – but we celebrate linguistic diversity. Whether you’re new to Toastmasters or a seasoned speaker, you’ll find space to grow at your own pace. Guests are always welcome – no pressure, just participation. Interested? RSVP on Meetup and come experience Toastmasters for yourself! **ESPAÑOL** ¿Hablas español y vives en Bruselas? ¿Te gustaría mejorar tu forma de hablar en público, también en inglés? En **Armada Toastmasters** te ayudamos a ganar confianza al hablar, ya sea para una reunión de trabajo, una entrevista o una presentación. Somos un club bilingüe donde podrás practicar habilidades de comunicación y liderazgo en un ambiente amistoso y multicultural. ¡Muchos de nosotros también hablamos español! Próxima reunión: segundo y cuarto lunes del mes 19:30 – 21:30 Elzenhof, Kroonlaan / Avenue de la Couronne 12, Elsene / Ixelles ¿Por qué unirte a Armada Toastmasters? ✔️ Practica discursos preparados y ejercicios improvisados ✔️ Mejora tu expresión oral y tu capacidad de liderazgo ✔️ Recibe feedback constructivo y motivador ✔️ Conoce personas internacionales que, como tú, quieren crecer Las reuniones son en inglés, pero celebramos la diversidad lingüística. No importa si eres principiante o ya tienes experiencia: aquí puedes avanzar a tu ritmo. La entrada es gratuita para los invitados. ¿Te interesa? Apúntate en Meetup y acompáñanos en una próxima reunión.

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! Schedule: [Monday to Thursday](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Rue Brialmont 7, Brussels Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! Horaire : [lundi à jeudi](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Rue Brialmont 7, Bruxelles Metro/Tram: Botanique Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

WHAT we play. As you know, we have two events, one more for social games on Thursday and another for **strategic games** on **Monday**. Depending on what people bring, we may play brainy games, not limited to chess and classic games. So, feel free to bring other ones. And this is only indicative. Some games like Decrypto fit both events, **and if people feel like playing a social game on Monday or a more strategic one on Thursday, they are free to do so.** WHERE. Because we have many strategic players on Monday and these games take longer, we moved to a café closing much later than the previous one. CHATBOX USE. In the event chatbox, you are invited to discuss the games you bring and want to play for this session. The idea is to gather people around game tables beforehand. Of course, it's also possible to show up and arrange this after the introduction round, which starts at 7h15. HOST. If you want to become a host and have your board game event for a specific game with a small group of people or in another place, Great! Let me know, and I'll help you set up your event with this group. Hosts don't pay fees. TIMING: Because strategy games are often longer, we start at 7 pm (instead of 8 pm on Thursdays). So, those who play long games can have 3 hours and 30 minutes for their game. You can come later, but you may have to wait before joining a game. WHERE. We play upstairs. Ask which room at the bar downstairs. DRINK. You have to order a drink at the bar, pay for it, and come up with it. **PLEASE TAKE NOTE THAT, UNFORTUNATELY, THE AUTOBUS ACCEPTS CASH ONLY.** EVENT REGISTRATION. Please register to allow us adequate venue planning. IN CASE OF A WAITLIST. Please, out of respect for people on the waiting list, don't cancel later than 7 PM the day before so they can plan their evening correctly. If you are on the waiting list, please cancel your attendance if you change your mind and can no longer come. Don't hesitate to send me a message to comment or make suggestions! Take care and see you soon! Baudouin

Please take a moment to read the information and rules for the sessions. **Overview:** Improv sessions in English accepting all levels. We play short and long-form improv comedy, which includes theater-style scenes, guessing, and group games. **Topics:** * Timing * Location * Participation (Attendees list) * RSVP rules * Improv session format * Who is it for? (Participation requirement) *** * **Timing** Being on time will help you and everyone. **18h15** \- Doors open *Please take this time to order your drinks/food and settle in.* **18h30** \- Start of the session **Are you late?** Please inform the event host, or comment on the event page. If you arrive late and the session is already in progress, please wait on the side till the game/scene is finished. Wait for the session moderator to indicate when you can start participating. * **Location** The session takes place on the first floor of The Sister Cafe. Stairs next to the bar. It's the room with a curtain at the door. * **Participation (Attendee list)** The session is limited to **12 attendees**. This is to ensure that the session is manageable and everybody gets enough chances to participate. Therefore, only the people on the "attendee list" are allowed to be present at the session and participate. **Waiting list**: People on the waiting list should keep an eye on the updates, in case someone from the attendees' list drops and you get their spot. **Just want to observe?** Usually, we don't allow any extra audience during these sessions. We invite you to come to any of our shows. But if for some reason you are only interested in observing and not participating, please contact the event host on meetup, or talk with them personally at the session and explain your reasons. Admission for this is not guaranteed. *People on the attendee list are expected to take part.* * **RSVP Rules** * Please update your RSVP status in a timely manner, if you can't make it to the session. This applies to people on the **attendee list AND waiting list.** * If you are on the waiting list, and already know that you won't be able to join in case someone from the main list drops, please update your RSVP to "not going". This will give the chance to the next person on the waiting list. * Emergencies aside, please update your rsvp status on time. Canceling last minute or just 1 hour before isn't helpful. * If we see a pattern from someone not showing up after confirming, or last-minute cancellations, we reserve the right to prohibit access to the sessions. * Please write a comment if you cancel and your spot becomes available. With this others will get an extra notification. **Improv Session Format** The session is held in English. The session is divided into three sections: Warm up, Scene games, and Cool down. **Warmup:** Quick group games are played to break the ice and get the creative juices flowing. **Scenes:** Then we move on to scene games. These are mostly from short-form improv, which can include different games with various gimmicks, like story building, character work, guessing, etc **Cool down:** One or two short group games to end the session. The rules are explained by the moderator before each game. There is no obligation to take part in games that you are not comfortable with. There can be feedback after a game is played. This is so that we learn from each other and gain skills and insights. **Tip**: If you are new, pay attention to the regular players when they are performing and notice small details, like how a stage is cleared before a scene, how to enter a scene, and how to collaborate with each other. * **Who is it for?** Anyone who is interested in improv! We accept all levels, beginners, and advanced participants This is a great place to start if you are new to improv. The basics will be explained. We only require the "Yes, and...!" spirit! If you are an advanced player and have ideas and games to share and work on, please do let us know. We look forward to welcoming you and doing improv!

Given the current state of affairs, one can wonder which step world leaders will take next, and which means they will use to do so. Technological and scientific progress can be in part attributed to the military, as can historical changes. Civilisations evolve, but having an army remains a constant. Is it a necessary evil ? Can we do without it ? If not, why not ? Tonight, we will be discussing the societal role of the military. Please join us with some humour, some paper and a pen. Looking forward to seeing you all.

Welcome to TechTuesday at HSBXL. It’s where tech enthusiasts hang out, projects get tinkered with, and the occasional debate over the best programming language ensues. Whether you’re an old hand at hacking or just dipping your toes: * **Chats & Code**: Engage in hushed tech tales, showcase your latest digital masterpiece, or simply bask in the mesmerizing rhythm of coders at work. * **Ambient Rhythms**: We curate a backdrop of everything from ambient rock to downtempo electronica. It sets the mood, enhancing the creativity without becoming a distraction. * **Refreshment Protocol**: Club Mate to fuel your creativity, assorted beers for contemplation, and soft drinks for a refreshing pause. Choose your brew. * **Machinery Magic**: Our space boasts more than just computers. Soldering irons hiss and 3D printers hum, telling tales of projects brought to life. * **Knowledge Exchange**: Encountered a tech puzzle? Someone in the room might have just the insight you need. And if you’ve unraveled a digital mystery, consider sharing it. **Note**: The beauty of HSBXL is its welcoming ethos. Member or not, if you’re curious and respectful, you’re one of us. ### Getting to HSBXL HSBXL, the beacon for tech enthusiasts in Brussels, awaits. For your navigational needs, check [here](https://hsbxl.be/enter/). Barrier issues? Broadcast at +32 28804004. For real-time digital dialogues, tap into our [Matrix chatroom](https://matrix.to/#/#hsbxl:matrix.org). ### Bring Along Your tech gear, a project in progress, or simply a mind open to the endless possibilities of tech. That’s TechTuesday at HSBXL. A laid-back evening where tech happens, naturally. See you there.

Welcome to our weekly event in the upstairs room of The Sister Café, rue Chair et Pain 3, one block from the Grand Place. Please get there early enough to order your drink at the bar first. Thank you! After introductions we will collect questions from the group participants, choose one by voting then discuss it for an hour. Then most of us stay for drinks and bizarre conversations. Past questions have been wide and not confined to academic philosophy: What is a genuine friend? Is social media turning us into emotional zombies? Do we lose some of the experience of things by defining them? Are we driven by sex? Is loneliness a personal failure? Is morality relative? **Crucially, be kind and respectful and generous** in your disagreements; remember how much you personally enjoy someone else proving you wrong before celebrating your cutting counterexamples.

Socializing and Networking at PLUX on Thursday. Making new friends and drinking . Everybody Welocme, locals, expats or new in town.

**This week’s discussion looks at Iran without tropes, slogans, or predictable moral positioning.** **Iran** today is at a geopolitical inflection point — facing deep economic strain, widespread domestic unrest, stalled diplomacy with the United States, a significant regional role, and renewed power alignments with Russia and China. We are not here to repeat talking points, defend geopolitical orthodoxies, or feel morally validated. **We are here to understand power, interests, history, law, incentives, and consequences as they actually are — not as they are marketed.** **Topics We Will Examine** 1. **Sanctions, Economy, and Domestic Pressure** Why continued sanctions have shaped Iran’s internal politics and economic crisis, how inflation and public dissatisfaction interact with state legitimacy, and what domestic pressures mean for strategic posture. 2. **Nuclear Negotiations and Strategic Posture** What the current talks reveal about incentives on both sides, where they are stuck, and how nuclear policy functions as leverage rather than merely a weapons issue. 3. **Regional Security and Proxy Strategy** Iran’s role in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and its deterrence strategy; how regional proxies fit into Tehran’s broader objectives and how Western, Gulf, and Israeli policies interact with these dynamics. 4. **Great Power Dynamics: Russia, China, and the West** How Iran’s strategic ties with Russia and China alter balance-of-power calculations in West Asia, and how Europe and the U.S. are adjusting policy in response. 5. **Geopolitical Signals vs Reality** U.S. military posture in the Gulf, Iranian military exercises near chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, and what these movements signal about escalation risks versus diplomatic incentives. **What Makes This Discussion Different** – We focus on **sovereignty, incentives, and strategic consequence** — not left-right moral theater – We prioritize **nuance over noise** and **context over tribal narratives** – We welcome participants with lived experience and language strengths (including Farsi) – We challenge received wisdom whether it comes from Western media groupthink or simplistic anti-West tropes *This is not pro-Iran or anti-Iran. This is about understanding **why actors behave as they do and how global order is shaped in practice**.* **Boundaries** Speak to ideas, history, strategy, and law — not personalities or identity. Critique systems, not individuals. Expect strong disagreement; intellectual laziness will be called out. Languages: English and French by default. Farsi, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic and Italian are supported. **Location & RSVP** Ixelles, public bar; exact venue shared with confirmed attendees via WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LX7UkWGZ3UdLQWLBvNdezN Accountability and rigorous discussion are the point — not performance or talking points.

Découverte des pratiques Heartfulness en ligne Chaque 4 & 5ème samedi du mois à 9h30 Approfondissement des pratiques La relaxation et la méditation nous permettent d’explorer la dimension subtile du cœur. Le nettoyage et la régénération favorisent la légèreté d’être en effaçant les empreintes émotionnelles. La connexion intérieure nous permet de rester centré et d’accéder aux niveaux les plus profonds de son être. Pratiquons-les, ensemble Les séances proposées par Heartfulness sont offertes, accessibles à toutes personnes et animées par des formateurs bénévoles certifiés. Inscription par ce lien https://cutt.ly/IOXyqeE Durée de l’atelier : une heure Contact : info@heartfulness.fr

SESIÓN GRUPAL DE RESPIRACIÓN HOLOSCÓPICA 28 de febrero, de 10:00 a 14:00 h La Respiración Holoscópica, al igual que la Respiración Holotrópica o el Breathwork, es una técnica dirigida a personas que deseen conocerse más o avanzar en su proceso terapéutico. Está especialmente indicada para trabajar bloqueos físicos y emocionales, liberar tensiones y equilibrar el sistema nervioso, facilitando una mayor claridad mental y una mejor regulación emocional. El trabajo se realiza en grupo reducido, acompañado de música y trabajo corporal. Si no lo has probado, te va a sorprender Aportación: 80 € ️ Idioma: Español, +traducción en inglés Facilitan: • Eloisa Acosta, experta en Terapia Transpersonal y Gestalt. Facilitadora de Respiración Holoscópica por la EEDT. • Jesús Sallabera, experto en Terapia Gestalt y Transpersonal (Programa SAT). Facilitador en Respiración Integrativa. Plazas limitadas – reserva: eloisa@eloisaacosta.es WhatsApp: +34 669 019 386 Más información sobre la técnica: [https://eloisaacosta.es/respiracion-holoscopica/](https://eloisaacosta.es/respiracion-holoscopica/) Lugar: Théâtre l’Improviste 120, rue de Fierlant – 1190 Bruselas

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. 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

Meeting Room 2b, 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. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.