Inner Peace

For many First Nations People Jan 26th is a day of mourning. I am Aboriginal and will be attending this Mourning Ceremony, feel free to join me. 🖤💛❤️ — 🎟️ This event is free but requires a ticket, the link is below. — ✏️ Bring your sketchbook along if you feel like sketching. I will bring mine. — ☕️ Drinks will be available but they request you bring your own reusable cup. ——————————————————— Join Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Bill Nicholson for the January 26th Mourning Ceremony: Healing, Resilience and Survival. January 26th is a day of grief for many First Peoples, as it marks the beginning of dispossession and ongoing impacts of colonisation. In 2017, Merri-bek City Council chose to no longer refer to January 26th as Australia Day and supports calls for a new day that brings people together. This ceremony is a time to reflect on resilience and survival, to listen and learn, and to stand together for truth-telling, justice and Treaty. Light refreshments will be provided at 9am. ——————
This event is proudly presented by Merri-bek City Council on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples. Merri-bek pays our respect to Elders past, present and acknowledges that sovereignty was never ceded. ———— This event is free but requires a ticket via this link - https://events.humanitix.com/26-january-2026-merri-bek-city-council-mourning-ceremony/tickets?utm_content=linkstream_stream&utm_source=storystream&fbclid=PAVERFWAPeWdBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAafC0_xxH7gkNOfci-16kOKycRa7JvXrXWOn3bkf16yzGJfcC1B7lsM0QFtRkA_aem_XqemOFMXOv2OjTo63R8Uuw

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

We had to reschedule the Explore Bendigo for the day on Saturday due to extreme heat. Given Sunday will be a cooler and hopefully a windy day, let's explore St Kilda beach to try and capture scenes in this rather lively place. If we are lucky, we may be able to capture some highly skilled kite surfers near the St Kilda pier. This will be a very casual event for the day. If you have a zoom lens, it might be a great opportunity for you to capture those surfers in action. Otherwise, get your other lenses out to capture street photography at the beach. Draft Schedule 4.00pm - Meet in front of Luna Park - Welcome and introduction 4.15pm - Head towards St Kilda Pier to explore the area in your own time. 6.15pm - Regroup in front of Luna Park 6.30pm - Dinner at Iddy Biddy Bar 35/39 Blessington St, St Kilda 7.45pm - Optional to join us for Sunset Photography (location TBA) 8.30pm - Event ends

‼️THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO THE POOR AIR QUALITY FROM THE BUSHFIRES‼️ For this event we will be going to Coburg Lake 🌿 Bring any art supplies you like, We will be wandering around the park sketching together. If you aren’t sure what to draw the club has a weekly drawing theme, just ask me what the prompt is 😊 ✏️ We welcome all artists of any skill level or medium, Whether you’re a beginner or pro, traditional or digital, absolutely anyone can join. ⚠️IMPORTANT⚠️ Please do not attend if you are sick. I have multiple chronic illnesses so my immune system is extremely weak. keep everyone safe by staying home if you are unwell ☔️ If the weather changes ill try to find an indoor location nearby —————————————————— Check out our instagram @shypeoplesdrawingclub to see more about our awesome group. We also have a Discord group for online events if you would like to join and chat with more artists. ✨

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss nation, identity and Australia Day. We will meet at the Captain Melville, 34 Franklin Street in Melbourne CBD, at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp. There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Glen will be leading the discussion this week. We have started to split into two tables to discuss as we have had increased numbers lately, and are looking for regular attendees who would be comfortable leading the discussion on the second table to put their hand up. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion. Some points and questions to consider * What is a nation? * Is national identity something we inherit or something we choose? How does one come to belong to a nation? What are the benefits and costs of belonging to a nation? * What role should historical truth play in national rituals? * What obligations do present generations have to past injustices? * Do all nations tell simplified myths about themselves? * What does Australia Day actually commemorate? * What does Australia Day mean to different groups of people? Are there other countries with similar issues? * How might recent migrants relate to debates around national identity and to Australia Day? * Would you make changes to how Australia Day is currently celebrated?

🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Many of you have been asking about structured events and if I’d ever bring them back. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.** Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. 💫 **What to Expect** This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe. Expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself * This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/find-your-personality-match-meet-people-make-friends-tickets-1979581442383?aff=oddtdtcreator 🧭 **Before the Event** Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**. It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors. This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event. 🌿 **Come Join Us** If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you. A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat. RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.

Looking to get outside, clear your head, and connect with good people? Join us for a relaxed walk around the promenade of Port Melbourne during the golden hour. The route will start at the meeting point and heading towards St. Kilda. After 40m aprox we will turn around and back to the meeting point. This is a casual meetup, no pressure. Just a friendly stroll, good conversation, and a reason to step away from screens and into the fresh air. Whether you’re new in town, working from home, or just want a social reason to walk, you’re very welcome. Come as you are. Comfy shoes, water bottle, and curiosity are all you need. **Optional:** After the walk, some of us might grab a coffee nearby — feel free to join if you’re up for it!

**No pressure, no plan—just new friends** ✨ Whether you’re visiting Melbourne for the first time, recently relocated, or simply love connecting with curious people, this weekly meetup is the perfect way to share stories, make friends, and go explore, as a group, the magic that Melbourne has to offer 🇦🇺 **What to expect?** • **Casual & hostless**: no formal host, no schedule: just show up, be yourself, meet fellow solo travellers & expats and decide as a group where you feel like going • **Central meeting point**: it is surrounded by cultural landmarks, cafes, and restaurants, making it a convenient and safe starting point. • **Open to everyone**: whether you are a local, an expat or just passing through for a few days, you are welcome to join. (English is the primary language, but feel free to switch of course) **How to talk with strangers?** (and create meaningful connections) To help you get started, I curated a little game of **[ridiculously good questions](https://www.pierrebonvalot.com/theblog?p=285a9711d7df80d5ac25dd4ef8fe5394&pm=c)** you can ask to break the ice, shift the conversation from dull to intriguing and fun, and eventually create meaningful connection quickly. I hope this helps! **The only things you need to do are…** • Leave a message in the comment section to let the others know that you will actually be there (I don’t want you to end up alone there :) • If you can’t make it anymore, no problem! But please update your RSVP to let the others know • Please be gentle and patient with each other. We all want to make good friends here. **Why join?** • Meet open-minded travellers and locals who are keen to connect, learn and have fun together. • Experience Melbourne... as a group. • Be part of a global community that celebrates solo travelling and meaningful connections between foreign and locals. **How does it works?** 1\. Arrive at the meeting spot at the scheduled time\. 2\. Look for other joiners—friendly faces and curious explorers\. 3\. Introduce yourself\, connect with others\, and decide as a group where to go\. **When & where?** • Day: every Sunday • Time: 4:00 PM (meetup sometimes displays a different time zone: but it’s always 4pm local time) • Location: in front of the Dolphin Fountain (inside Fitzroy Gardens) **Hostless**: I am setting up the event for you all to meet, but I won't be there myself this time :) **Hi my names is Pierre** I created this Meetup group because I want to see more human connection happen in the real world. I feel many of us want this, but don't exactly know how to go about it. I hope this helps a little bit. I also work as a transformational coach: I help people who feel stuck in their life to reconnect with themselves, create real change and ultimately live more fulfilling lives. 🔗 bento.me/pierrebonvalot

[blob:https://www.facebook.com/6dd3fbc2-2357-4495-badb-75055a562729]() Come along to Iddy Biddy Bar in St Kilda for Australia Day Eve Karaoke and dinner (both optional.) Tables booked under Andrew Goodwin (ph: 0424453134) at 6pm for dinner. Here is a copy of the menu. [https://www.iddybiddy.com.au/food-menu.html](https://www.iddybiddy.com.au/food-menu.html) [https://www.iddybiddy.com.au/drinks-menu.html](https://www.iddybiddy.com.au/drinks-menu.html) Then Straya Day Mate Karaoke from 7pm. So singing is totally optional and you can sing as many, IF ANY, songs that you like and watching on all night is totally fine too. Event cohosted by Martin Carr. So plenty of parking around the general area and getting the tram up from Balaclava Station to the corner of Carlisle Street and Barkly Street or catching the 96 tram near here or buses up Barkly Street probably the best ways to get here via public transport. PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS ON MULTIPLE GROUPS.

**Join globally respected cardiologist , Dr. Mohit Gupta, as we explore how our thoughts impact our physical health and overall well-being.** Our thoughts are far more powerful than we often realize. A single thought has the capacity to influence our emotions, shape our health, strengthen or strain our relationships, and quietly guide the course of our lives. The Power of One Thought is an insightful session that explores how conscious and intentional thinking impacts the brain, heart, and overall well-being. Through a thoughtful blend of scientific evidence and meditative practice, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how thought patterns influence stress, emotional resilience, mental clarity, and long-term health. In this session, Dr. Mohit Gupta seamlessly integrates modern neuroscience and cardiology with the wisdom of Raj Yoga meditation, offering practical insights into emotional regulation, cardiovascular health, and the slowing of biological aging. He uses his own life stories of Belief and Resilience. The experience is designed to be reflective, engaging, and immediately applicable to both personal and professional life. This session is ideal for individuals seeking inner clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper understanding of how one consciously chosen thought can create lasting transformation. **About Dr. Mohit Gupta** *Dr. Mohit Dayal Gupta, MD, DM, FACC, FRCP, is a globally respected interventional cardiologist and Director–Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi, and serves as Cardiologist to the Parliament of India. A four-time TEDx speaker, he has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed scientific publications and is a Fellow of leading international cardiology institutions.* *A distinguished clinician–scientist, Dr. Gupta’s current research focuses on the effects of Raj Yoga meditation on biological aging and cardiovascular resilience. Associated with the Brahma Kumaris since childhood, he is widely known for his rare ability to bridge cardiology, neuroscience, meditation, and spirituality, offering a compelling perspective on holistic health and conscious leadership.* Fri., Jan. 30th, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2ndFloor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/wt8yd](https://shorturl.at/wt8yd)

## **Join renowned speaker, Sister Jenna, at our new Brahma Kumaris location in Chantilly, VA for this powerful event!** ## ***Forgiveness is not forgetting, it’s freeing.*** As a new year begins, many carry emotional residue from the past, unspoken hurts, disappointments, and unfinished stories. In The Power of Forgiveness, we will explore forgiveness not as approval of what happened, but as a courageous act of inner freedom. This session offers a spiritual perspective on releasing emotional weight, reclaiming peace, and stepping into the new year lighter, clearer, and more empowered. ***Sister Dr. Jenna*** *is a spiritual mentor, author, radio and TV personality, renowned speaker, and the founder of the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum located in Maryland. She hosted the popular America Meditating Radio Show and is a recipient of the President’s Lifetime National Community Service Award. Sister Dr. Jenna is a member of the Evolutionary Leaders Circle, a group of thought leaders from diverse disciplines in service to conscious evolution and was selected by Empower A Billion Women 2020 as one of 100 most influential leaders of 2015.* *She is the author of “[Meditation: Intimate Experiences with the Divine through Contemplative Practices](https://www.amazon.com/Meditation-Experiences-Contemplative-Practices-Sentience/dp/194502691X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3A4J9WRQ16QAJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.va3qPnUsFjEWH641OraGTqBHm8wDhdhrTu3hpjHufKo.7mA_AgIvDXQuQ9_Uu4ucZgQIOKmCfKb6yBHsIqamhPY&dib_tag=se&keywords=Meditation%3A+Intimate+Experiences+with+the+Divine+through+Contemplative+Practices&qid=1753065633&sprefix=meditation+intimate+experiences+with+the+divine+through+contemplative+practices%2Caps%2C232&sr=8-1),” a profound compilation featuring insights from over 30 contributing authors and she contributed to “[Mr. President – Interfaith Perspectives on the Historic Presidency of Barack H. Obama,](https://www.amazon.com/Mr-President-Interfaith-Perspectives-Presidency/dp/1939774306/ref=sr_1_1?crid=38LXE3LGDPJ6C&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lSb0fzkCXPXp-Gf4ReVNoA.5hIb1TKNvtmLu65w2R4-l13WjyXAzF-rRFtQzDsRTcg&dib_tag=se&keywords=Mr.+President+%E2%80%93+Interfaith+Perspectives+on+the+Historic+Presidency+of+Barack+H.+Obama%2C&qid=1753065692&sprefix=mr.+president+interfaith+perspectives+on+the+historic+presidency+of+barack+h.+obama%2C%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1)” offering her unique spiritual insights on leadership and unity.* Sunday, Jan. 25th, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/F22sK](https://shorturl.at/F22sK)

**Stress Free Living: Create Calm from the Inside Out** Stress doesn’t have to be your default setting. This workshop offers a grounded, practical approach to cultivating inner calm and resilience in the face of life’s demands. Through mindfulness, breathwork, and nervous system regulation techniques, you’ll learn how to shift from stress to ease—without needing to escape your life. This is about building a sustainable inner sanctuary, no matter what’s happening around you. Key Takeaways: * Understand the root causes of stress and how it affects your body and mind. * Learn simple, effective tools to reduce stress in real time. * Build a personalized stress-reduction toolkit. * Cultivate a calm, centered presence in everyday life. Sun., Feb., 15th, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/dvOpI](https://shorturl.at/dvOpI)

**Planting Seeds of Peace** What happens in this theater of life is the result of actions planted in the past. Let us now plant seeds of peace to create a life of serenity. Wed., Jan. 28th, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Center, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl., Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/OelS7](https://shorturl.at/OelS7)

**Unwind. Breathe. Reset.** Join us for a calming **guided evening meditation** designed to help you **release stress**, **quiet the mind**, and **restore inner peace**, even if you’ve never meditated before. * **Time:** 6:30 PM–7:30 PM * **Format:** Gentle guidance + quiet time + peaceful reflection * **Perfect for:** Beginners and experienced meditators * **What to bring:** Just yourself **Come as you are. Leave feeling lighter.** * **Reserve your spot** (recommended) * **Free Event - Donations Appreciated** * **Bring a friend. First-timers welcome!** * **Arrive early to settle in. Doors open at 6:00 PM.**

**Welcome to our Free weekly course to experience Freedom from Thoughts and establish Inner Peace!** Join us at the **Middleburg Library (Meeting Room)** for an enlightening experience. This in-person event will introduce you to the ancient practice of Kundalini Meditation, guiding you towards self-discovery and inner peace. Whether you're a beginner or looking to deepen your spiritual practice, this course is designed for all levels. Come and explore the transformative power of Kundalini Meditation with us! FAQs **What is the cost for the events?** All Sahaja Yoga meditation events, classes, and workshops are offered free of cost and are open to all. Just as one cannot pay nature to sprout a seed, in the same way, Sahaja Yoga is a living process that cannot be paid for. **What should I wear?** We do not have a dress code, but recommend any decent, comfortable wear or smart casual wear. **What do you typically do at a workshop or event?** Our events are varied and diverse ranging from music and meditation to cultural and spiritual exhibitions and other creative explorations. We offer meditation at all our events. Depending on the event, our workshop focuses on a particular topic and then we provide guided meditation and offer simple techniques to maintain balance. These techniques may include the use of elements such as water and light that make the meditative experience very enjoyable. We also have time for questions and individual queries and teach how to meditate at home at each workshop.. **Do I need to bring anything?** No, you’re fine. Just walk in and enjoy the event! **I haven’t RSVP’d, can I still come for the event?** Yes, you can, although we recommend you Register to make sure we have seats for you. **I’ve attended a workshop. What next?** To take full advantage of your experience with meditation, the next step would be to attend any of our regular meetings as we offer ongoing classes. Consider that when a plant is given water, it grows strong and healthy. In the same way, meditation cleanses and harmonizes one’s being, so attending a weekly collective meditation is the best way to bring lasting peace and well-being. We still encourage you to attend our diverse events that may appeal to you. There is always something interesting going on, so keep stopping by or checking our website. **What is Sahaja Yoga?** Sahaja Yoga is a meditation breakthrough founded by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970 and is based on ancient principles for the modern world. It begins with the awareness of one’s individual energy called, ‘kundalini.’ Once the kundalini is awakened within, the process of meditation becomes effortless and spontaneous, and this leads to complete peace and balance in life. With balance comes lasting joy and well-being of mind, body, emotions and spirit. **Where can I attend a Sahaja Yoga event or class?** You can check this website for upcoming events. Our free classes are offered nationwide and internationally. For classes in the D.C. Metro Area (Maryland, Virginia and D.C.), please visit [local ](http://%5Bhttp//www.dcsahajayoga.org/weekly-classes.html%5D(http://www.dcsahajayoga.org/weekly-classes.html) "\[http://www.dcsahajayoga.org/weekly-classes.html\](http://www.dcsahajayoga.org/weekly-classes.html)")[classes](http://%5Bhttps//www.dcsahajayoga.org/%5D(https://www.dcsahajayoga.org/) "\[https://www.dcsahajayoga.org/\](https://www.dcsahajayoga.org/)") If you’re looking for classes out of state or abroad, you may visit [sahajayoga.org](http://sahajayoga.org/) Still have questions feel free to contact us at 623-734-5952

Dear all, This meditation session is for folks that have already attended the beginner and intermediate levels. Please confirm with your instructor before joining this session. We are having this mediation from 9-10am. Looking forward to meeting you in person and online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7551126133?pwd=TmJVc3VnQlUvVU9qUzBPdU1SaWRqUT09 Directions : From Stoneridge on Rt 50 come past Rt 28, turn right on Sullyfield, it is on left past Westmorefield Dr. From Fair Oaks, take left on Sullyfield after crossing Walney and it is on Left after crossing Westmorefield