Health & Wellbeing

Looking to improve your **flexibility**, relieve **stress** and enhance your overall **well-being**? Join us for a welcoming and supportive stretching class designed specifically for women! What to expect: Gentle stretches suitable for all levels. Focus on relaxation and mindfulness A positive environment to connect with other women Where: The Living Room, Soho 3 Green’s Ct, London W1F 0HD Cost: Free Contact: Vanesa Romero +44 7394804891

Circling is a present-moment relational awareness practice. We’re bringing our attention to what’s unfolding in real time, repeatedly returning to what’s happening within ourselves, between us and in the shared space of the group. We practice approaching our own experience and the experience of others with curiosity, becoming more aware of the subtleties of what is present. The emphasis is on staying in contact with your experience as it unfolds. The unfolding may be quiet and internal or it may lead to words – naming sensations, thoughts, emotions, impulses or perceptions. It might also include movement or other non-verbal expression. The idea is not to try to change what’s there, but to become more aware of what it is and how we are meeting it and relating to it in the moment. Often awareness follows expression and this is okay too. We are all swimming in the ocean of the unknown. Occasionally the whale lifts its head above the surface and we catch a glimpse – a moment of seeing something about ourselves that we hadn’t noticed before. Over time, many people find that this kind of awareness practice deepens their sense of aliveness and helps them notice patterns in how they relate to themselves and others. With ongoing practice, some people discover an increased capacity to be with themselves and others in a more conscious, grounded, flexible and responsive way – where we can experience ourselves as active participants in our lives rather than passive reactors to what is happening internally or around us. Both those new to Circling and those with more experience are very welcome. To reserve your place, transfer £18 via my eventbrite page: **[https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/robyn-wilford-29457876735)** Any questions, please direct message me here or email: [robyncontact365@gmail.com](http://robyncontact365@gmail.com) We’ll start at 7pm (arrive from 6.50pm) and will finish at 9pm. There will be some optional hang out time after 9pm. Opposite Elephant & Castle tube and Thameslink train station, and numerous bus routes. **Facilitation and Terms of Service** This is a facilitated group practice but not group therapy and not psychotherapy. Because of my NARM background and own personal journey, I value personal choice, agency and emergent self-awareness. Participants are encouraged to stay connected to their own pace and to keep checking in with themselves throughout the practice – noticing what feels supportive, what feels like too much, and what they may need in any moment. There’s no expectation to be vulnerable or to share anything that feels too personal or emotional and you are always welcome to speak, remain silent, pause, step back and take a break, leave or ask for what you want, including asking for support. Participants are also invited to respect one another’s pace and boundaries. The intention of my Circling leadership is to support myself and people in staying present with their experience while in relationship with others, and to develop greater awareness of how they are meeting that experience. Having said that, like solo meditation, it’s normal that we will all repeatedly lose presence and Circling can sometimes evoke strong emotions or reactions in people which can be difficult for them and challenging for others in the space to navigate. If you find the prospect of this potentially destabilising or overwhelming, or if you are currently experiencing significant emotional distress or instability in your life that might be exacerbated by this type of group environment, or if you are unsure you’ll be able to take care of yourself and ensure the practice works for you, then please contact me before registering so we can discuss further. By registering you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the above.

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** **Welcome to Socialite Connections – Mental Health Networking for Sports & Fitness Startups & Professionals** This networking event brings together founders, coaches, athletes, and wellness professionals working at the intersection of sport, fitness, and mental health. As conversations around performance, burnout, and emotional wellbeing continue to grow, the need for collaboration across these fields has never been more important. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://www.fatsoma.com/e/ncyad0a9/mental-health-networking-for-sports-fitness-startups-professionals **We start the event at 6.00pm with a warm welcome.** Having an open-minded approach is ideal, as it will enable you to establish new connections. **The Refinery CityPoint** \- Located just around the corner from **Moorgate Station**, it is a stylish and expansive venue in the heart of the City. With its chic interiors, statement furniture, and welcoming atmosphere, **The Refinery** is the perfect location for **local corporate events**, **business breakfasts**, **working lunches**, **client entertainment.** **Event Schedule** **18:00 – 21:00 \| When you arrive\,** your name will be checked off the guest list, you will be given a name badge and you will be introduced to each other. **19:00 – 19:30 \| One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room to talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 19.00pm sharp, please dont be late) **19:30 \- 21:00 \| Network & chill:** It will be a free form event where guests can mingle amongst each other in a relaxed environment, when the pitches are finished. **Why Attend?** Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges such as stress, pressure, injury recovery, and motivation, and explore innovative approaches to supporting mental wellbeing in sport and fitness settings. The event aims to foster partnerships, inspire new initiatives, and strengthen a community focused on healthier, more sustainable performance. **One Minute Presentation**: All attendees will be given the opportunity to pitch for one minute about their business to potential Investors and possibly business collaborations. Expand your professional network, Discover investment and business opportunities, Gain insights into the future of travel and hospitality, Connect with like-minded innovators and decision-makers. **One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 19:00pm sharp, please dont be late) **Who Should Attend** This event is designed to create meaningful connections between startups, industry experts, and practitioners who are building solutions or supporting individuals in high-performance environments. Whether you’re developing a mental wellness app, coaching athletes, running a fitness business, or researching performance psychology, this space encourages open dialogue and knowledge-sharing. Connect with **Mental Health Professionals** in a relaxed setting. **Fitness, Sport startup founders and teams, Investors and venture capital professionals, Tech innovators and product leaders, Industry consultants and service providers Working Professionals.** **Tickets are limited to just 40 attendees.** We like to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to talk to each other. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://www.fatsoma.com/e/ncyad0a9/mental-health-networking-for-sports-fitness-startups-professionals You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative networking experience! **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event.**

We start with warm up exercises. These are gentle movements and stretching from Qi Gong. We then proceed through the Tai Chi Form (short-form Yang style), usually at an easy pace, but with continous repetition. You need to wear loose clothing that allows body movement. The sessions end with some more Qi Gong meditations. Tea and Coffee is available. Please RSVP if you are going to attend, so as we have some idea about numbers.

Looking to improve your **flexibility**, relieve **stress** and enhance your overall **well-being**? Join us for a welcoming and supportive stretching class designed specifically for women! What to expect: Gentle stretches suitable for all levels. Focus on relaxation and mindfulness A positive environment to connect with other women Where: The Living Room, Soho 3 Green’s Ct, London W1F 0HD Cost: Free Contact: Vanesa Romero +44 7394804891

Join us for a Free Ongoing Course - Learn to Meditate - Tuesdays in Covent Garden @ 7.30pm - Sahaja Yoga Meditation Please arrive early - join any week - all welcome Friends Meeting House, 8 Hop Gardens Covent Garden, London, WC2N 4EH To enter - please press the Bell marked - 'The Fry Room' Achieve Yoga & enter into a state of ‘thoughtless awareness’. In the heart of London, very close to Covent Garden, there is a weekly class in free meditation. **Achieve Yoga & Learn to Meditate in 2026 - 7:30- 9:00pm Tuesdays** The first experience of Sahaja Yoga meditation is called Self Realisation. With Sahaja Yoga Meditation we generally sit on chairs to achieve Yoga, effortlessly & spontaneously. As such no Asanas (exercises) are required, no mat or special clothing ## What is Meditation? Meditation is a state of mental silence or rest, where our attention is aware, but not engrossed in thinking. It is known as ‘thoughtless awareness’. It is achieved when the indwelling Kundalini energy awakens and carries the individual attention beyond the level of the 6th chakra, into the seventh chakra, known as Sahasrara. ## Yoga! It is here we achieve Yoga! As the mind finds rest and silence, we become able to feel our inner Self (Spirit). This can be tangibly felt, it actually manifests, as a cool wind, breath or breeze, often experienced on the palms of the hands or at the top (crown) of the head. It is a spontaneous, effortless natural happening. Each week many people experience this actualisation at one of the many free meditation classes on offer ## How to get into balance? The secret of the Sahaja Yoga method resides within us, at the base of the spinal chord, in a triangular bone called the “sacrum bone”. Since our birth in our sacrum bone dwells an inner energy called in Sanskrit Kundalini; it is characterised as a feminine energy and once activated, this energy rises along our spine until it reaches the top of the head and finally connects with the universal energy. This union is called “yoga” in Sanskrit. ## Kundalini As our indwelling Kundalini rises through the central channel, this benevolent feminine energy activates the chakras, removing all the impurities from them and nourishing the entire inner system. It is through this happening that we are elevated into ‘thoughtless awareness’, the mental silence of true meditation www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk Free Meditation & Yoga Classes in London Want to experience it now – Experience Self Realisation now – Guided Meditation ([https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/](https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/ "https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/")) ###

Have you ever wanted to partake in hikes where you get exposed to new areas with luscious forms of nature, some amazing views and possibly some hidden gems? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to another Hiking event where all of this is possible. This is the opportunity to form friendships, discover a different perspective of London, improve your fitness, embrace nature but also feel great about yourself. With this particular Hike, we’ll be hiking from Grove Park to Crystal Palace. We’ll be traversing through many parks, forests and nature pathways but also make new discoveries too. This is also part of the capital ring which is a 78 mile pathway split into 15 hiking routes. This is section 3. If you want to be part of the journey, feel free to join us. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy Starting point: Grove Park Station Ending point: Crystal Palace station Walking length: 12.6km Duration: 4 hours at most Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. WHAT - Hike WHERE - Grove Park to Crystal Palace WHEN - 2pm - 7pm MEETING POINT - Outside Grove Park Station NEAREST STATION - Grove Park station REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 



With this particular walk, we will be walking through the entirety of Clapham Common. This beautiful common is surrounded by Clapham, Balham and Brixton however, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern urban living. After this walk, we’ll be heading to Tawa Roti for Trinidadian food if you wish. Tawa Roti is one of the few places that not only offers authentic Trinidadian cuisine but it feels as if you’re eating homemade food cooked by mum and dad. To find out more, please check them out at https://tawaroti.com My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy

Starting point: Clapham Common
Ending point: Tawa Roti
Walking length: 2+ miles
Duration: 1 hour +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 



WHAT - Walk through Clapham Common
WHERE - Clapham Common
WHEN - 7:15pm - 9:30pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Clapham South Station
NEAREST STATION - Clapham South Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wanted or needed a day where you wanted to form friendships, get out of loneliness, converse about even the deepest of things and/or end the week on a relaxing positive note over a cup of coffee or nutritious beverage? If so. This may be the right one for you. Welcome to another ‘Relax’ event in this group where all of this is possible. With this particular event, it’ll take place at ‘Joe & the Juice’. This place started over 20 years ago where the concept came into fruition in Denmark. The first physical store opened in Norway 2010 and now it’s worldwide. This place is more than a coffee shop as it also aids with nutrition and aura. To find out more, check them out at https://www.joejuice.com/culture/joe-history The last time this took place, we gathered, had nice conversations and ended the week on a positive note. Here is the itinerary for the event: 8pm - 8:15pm: Await the members 8:15pm - 10:30pm: Enter the coffee shop, purchase a coffee or snack and socialise. Come and join me there and then where all of this is possible and if possible, another insightful-ish event. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

WHAT: Social gathering over coffee
WHERE: Joe & the Juice https://maps.app.goo.gl/qYmh3Euj33jVSexu9?g_st=ic
WHEN: 8pm - 10:30pm
MEET UP LOCATION: Outside Joe & the Juice NEAREST STATION: Baker Street Station
REQUIREMENTS: Just your good behaviour is all Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the [Met Walkers website](https://www.metropolitan-walkers.org.uk/how-to-join/)** We follow the River Lea North West until entering Victoria Park. Following a brief section of the Regent's Canal, we walk through London Fields to end at Dalston. Optional pub stop at the end. Please note that, while the walk will end at Dalston Junction, Dalston Kingsland is also nearby. **Leisurely \| 4\.8 miles / 7\.7 km** **Start: Meet outside Bromley-By-Bow underground station. @ 07:00 pm** Postcode: E3 3JJ **End: Finish at Dalston Junction station, although Dalston Kingsland is also nearby** Postcode: E8 3DE

Hit the pause button, retreat from the busy-ness (for a while) and take time out for yourself. This half-day retreat will be a blend of meditations, talks and discussions to enhance your inner peace and spiritual growth. The retreat offers you the opportunity to delve into the: * basics of mindfulness, breath, visualisation and meditation * essential spiritual insights about the self * Raja Yoga meditation and philosophy. **This is a free in-person event. Spaces are limited. Booking essential.** **The retreat will start on time. Please arrive by 9.55am.** **If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please click** [here.](https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/ "https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/") \* I consent to my submitted data being collected and stored. We will process your personal data in line with the GDPR requirements and always store it securely and use it only for the purpose for which it has been collected. We will not pass on your details to any third parties without your consent.

Ecstatic Dance\, Live Percussion\, Delicious Cacao Ceremony\, Fruit Social\! MUSIC VIBE: Mystical \| World Dub \| Tribal Breaks & Global Bass **ECSTATIC DANCE LONDON presents:** **🌀SHAMANIC BASS TEMPLE** **An Ecstatic Shamanic Dance Journey + Live Percussion + Cacao Ceremony + Fruit Social** **For Booking & more info:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1988862647718?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1988862647718?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Saturday Night:** 7PM–10PM **Fruit Social:** 10PM–10:15PM **Tufnell Park, London** Part of our all-day transformational workshop: **THE RITUAL: Summer of Love.** More info here([https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987903571094?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987903571094?aff=oddtdtcreator)) Immerse yourself in an ecstatic dance journey infused with Deep Global Bass, World Dub, Tribal Breaks, and live percussion. Move freely, connect deeply, and let the music take you on a powerful journey of embodiment, release and ecstasy. We’ll open the evening with a dance movement warmup, then shift to a heart-opening raw vegan cacao ceremony and positive intention setting ritual, tuning in together before the main dance Wave begins. **Expect:** ✨ Uplifting Dub & Bass Heavy Breaks, Mystical Shamanic Soundscapes, Drum & Bass, and Organic World Rhythms 🥁 Live percussion bringing fire and soul to the dancefloor 🍫 Raw ceremonial cacao to open your heart and elevate your energy 💃 Freestyle, expressive movement & moving meditation 🍉 Optional fruit social afterwards to nourish and connect No alcohol, no drugs, just rhythm, breath, and community. This is one of London’s most loved sober Saturday night dance experiences, where you can shake off the week’s stress and celebrate life through movement. **MUSIC VIBE: Mystical \| World Dub \| Tribal Breaks & Global Bass** **WHY CACAO?** At Ecstatic Dance London([https://ecstaticdancelondon.com/](https://ecstaticdancelondon.com/)), we adore raw ceremonial cacao. It’s a natural heart-opener and gentle energiser that supports emotional flow, creativity, and embodied presence on the dancefloor. Your complimentary raw vegan cacao is lovingly prepared using ethically sourced, high-quality cacao from Guatemala. Free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and refined sugar, velvety, nourishing, and deeply delicious. Cacao + Ecstatic Dance is a potent combination for transformation, connection, and joyful expression. **ECSTATIC DANCE GUIDELINES** • No alcohol, no drugs • No shoes • No phones on the dancefloor • No talking while dancing • Move however you wish • Respect yourself, others, and the shared space This is a zero-tolerance sober space. Please arrive clear-headed; anyone arriving intoxicated will be refused entry or asked to leave. No refunds. Dancers participate at their own risk. Ecstatic Dance London accepts no responsibility for spontaneous joy, open hearts, or sore cheeks from excessive smiling (or for injury, loss, or damage). **THE PRACTICE** Arrival & Warm-up: Gentle stretching, movement, and intention-setting to ease into the body. The Journey: A full ecstatic dance soundwave guided by a live DJ set, with light facilitation to support flow and presence. Integration: The dance typically closes with a deep relaxation to land the experience. Late arrivals disrupt the shared container. Entry closes 30 minutes after the start, please arrive on time so we can journey together from beginning to end. **SCHEDULE** 7:00–7:30pm Doors open & warm-up (No entry after 7:30pm — please arrive early) 7:30–10pm Cacao Ceremony • Chakra Journey • Ecstatic Dance Soundwave (Complimentary raw vegan cacao provided) 10pm–10:30pm Optional fruit social to nourish and ground after the dance **✨ The Journey** **Shamanic Bass Temple Ecstatic Dance journey:** A guided movement warm-up → our heart-opening cacao ceremony & connection ritual → a slow build into a euphoric, high-energy dance peak → softening into spacious, grounded integration → closing together with a gentle landing and fruit social. The music moves across World Dub, Bass-heavy, Rhythm-Infused, Shamanic Soundscapes, designed to take you out of your head and into your body: with live percussion woven in to ignite rhythm and release. **✨ What to Expect** 🎶 Uplifting, immersive bass-heavy/percussion-driven/shamanic-inspired ecstatic dance journey 🥁 Live percussion to deepen rhythm and embodiment 🍫 Cacao ceremony & intention-setting to open the night 🔊 High-quality sound in a stunning, atmospheric venue 💃 A safe, playful, non-verbal space to dance freely, express, release & connect 🍉 Complimentary fruit social to ground and reconnect after the journey 💫 A Saturday night out that leaves you energised, not depleted

We hiked this trail in March 2026 with The Bethesda Social Club, and everyone loved it! **Lake Needwood–Gude–Blue Heron Loop in Rock Creek Regional Park.** • Distance: 3.6 miles • Difficulty: Easy, with a gentle climb of 337 ft • Time: 1.5–2 hours at a leisurely pace • Scenery: Beautiful lake views, wetlands, and lots of birds (herons, ducks, geese) • Ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and not too tiring experience • Wide, well-marked trails — perfect for chatting Don’t forget to pack your essentials (water, snacks, and tissues are a good idea). If you’re bringing your dog, please let us know in the comments, just in case anyone has allergies. We’ll all meet at the parking lot near the boat house.

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee is authentic, spacious, has a helpful staff, and I like their espresso. If you try this place on your own, they’re open early and late. This spot has been recommended a couple times and I think it’ll make a great stop on our journey. Come out Saturday morning for a relaxed convo. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

Join VSDC to enjoy a meal at Brews and Barrels in Gaithersburg, MD! They just launched a **new vegan menu**, and we want to show our support and be among the first to try it! You can **see the vegan menu below**. Out of respect for others, while eating with VSDC, please order and consume vegan food only, even if that is not your norm. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join us for a VSDC volunteer day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary! It is a great way to lend a hand while enjoying up-close time with the more than 200 animals that call Poplar home. Volunteer tasks will range from those requiring mobility and strength to less demanding activities, including raking, cleaning barns and pastures, and washing and refilling water buckets. Wear clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. No food or drink is available on-site, so bring water. Please leave snacks in the car so the animals don't help themselves. Please arrive by 9:45 am so we can gather and start at 10 am sharp. Thank you for helping the animals, and we look forward to seeing you there! **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. * **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy nature! We meet Saturdays at 10am, by the bike racks and benches 150 feet in front of BUBBLES Hair Salon in Reston, leaving no later than 10:05. Every week we'll walk the Green Trail to Lake Anne Plaza (\~1 mile), pause there for 5-10 minutes (water, bio, and from April-Nov a Farmer's Market), then circle the lake (2 miles) before returning to our starting point. It's roughly 3.5 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to a local restaurant to refuel and relax before tackling the rest of the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels, and both friends and dogs are always welcome! We recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water bottle, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll always walk, rain or shine. By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

Join the [Veg Society of DC (VSDC)](vsdc.org) for a pro-animal/vegan-themed Movie Watch Party on Saturday, June 13 at 6:30 pm in Fairfax VA. Socializing with vegan food beforehand and discussion about the movie afterwards is planned. This month we will screen two films. The first is *Forever Home* (56 minutes): In the heart of North Carolina, two dreamers are revolutionizing animal care through groundbreaking architecture and by rethinking the concept of “home.” At their refuge, they’re replacing conventional barns with customized homes. With empathy and imagination, they’re bringing architectural design to the world of animal care and providing a blueprint for a compassionate, sustainable future. The second film (20 minutes) is *Welcome Home*, which celebrates the incredible story of wolf reintroduction to Colorado. The VSDC member hosts’ home in Fairfax has a small home theater that can accommodate around 20 people. This regular event is a fun way to learn, discuss, and meet vegans and vegan-curious people (Thanks to Mindy Kursban and David Kwiatkowski for hosting!). FEE: The $12 fee will cover the hosts' expenses for the event, including food, beverages, and other associated costs. If there are any proceeds beyond these costs, which we don't expect, they will go towards VSDC's work to fulfill its mission. In order to ensure the success of the evening and limit late cancellations, **the fee is refundable until 5 days before the event. [NOTE the fee increase due to the increase in the cost of food]** BECAUSE THERE IS A FEE FOR THIS EVENT, MEETUP DOES NOT ALLOW FOR A WAITLIST ONCE THE RSVPs ARE FULL. IF IT IS FULL, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU CHECK MEETUP OCCASIONALLY TO SEE IF ANYONE HAS CHANGED THEIR RSVP. FOOD: Pizza, salad, fruit, and desserts. Feel free to bring any vegan food or beverages to share. WHO: All VSDC and Meetup members are invited. Bringing a non-vegan friend is encouraged. WHEN: Saturday, June 13 **at 6:30 pm**. We'll eat and enjoy social time together first and begin watching the movie around 7:00 pm. WHERE: The home is in Fairfax VA 22033, near Inova Fair Oaks Hospital. It is 8 miles from the closest metro at either Vienna or Reston (Uber or Lyft would be necessary). **For safety and security reasons, the exact location will be emailed privately via Meetup about 2 days in advance to those who have rsvp'd Yes.** Please make sure your email is current in Meetup, your Meetup settings allow organizer messages, and check your spam if you don't receive the message. PARKING: There is plenty of free parking within a 3-minute walk of the home. \*You must register via this page to attend the event.\* A Pay Pal account is required to pay the $12. Because there is a cost for the event, Meetup doesn't have a waitlist for the movie. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**