Conservation

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.

Join us for a **guided snowshoeing experience** in **Longfaille**, a quiet village just a few minutes from Botrange - but **away from the crowds**. ### 📍 Location 📌 **Longfaille** (small, peaceful village with easy parking) ➡️ **Car access required** – carpooling is encouraged ### ⏰ Schedule 🕙 **Flexible timing**, depending on the group and weather ➡️ Possible start **in the morning (around 10:00)** or **in the afternoon (around 14:00)** ⏱️ Duration: **1.5 to 2 hours** ⚠️ Weather can change (rain or warmer temperatures possible). Final confirmation will be given shortly before the event. ### 👟 Equipment included ✔️ Snowshoes ✔️ Snowshoes available for children 👉 No personal equipment needed (just warm clothes and suitable shoes). ### 👥 Group size 🔹 **Maximum 5 adults per group** 🔹 Children welcome (depending on equipment availability) ### 🚗 Transport 🚘 Participants must be able to **come by car** ➡️ Please indicate when registering if you have a car or need a ride --- ### ℹ️ Good to know * Guided by a local outdoor professional * Suitable for beginners / intermediate level * Relaxed, friendly atmosphere in nature 👉 **Sign up** and **join the WhatsApp group**, and we’ll confirm the final time based on participants and weather conditions. See you in the snow ❄️😊 By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

This is an open Circle for anyone and open to constellate on any subject. It's a good way to get started if you've been wanting to see what Constellations is all about. We will start with some bodywork exercises and then there will be time for three Constellations on any topic. ​A Constellation is a means for accessing the timeless map you hold within, linking the past to the present and the present to the future. It's a tool to find the origin of the problems we face today such as repeated patterns, blockages, relationship difficulties or health concerns, to name a few, and has the power to reveal hidden dynamics not visible to the normal eye. Then a healing exchange takes place and steps are taken to free you from the past and put you on a road to freedom, understanding and authenticity for your future. ​There are two ways to participate, either as a participant or Space Holder in the Circle or to bring a topic to constellate as an Issue Holder, which is limited to three places. Although one person will bring a subject to constellate, everyone participates. A Constellation is a Healing Circle for all who attend. Price for Space Holders: 45 Euros (12 spots) Price for Issue Holders: 145 Euros (3 spots) ​Date: Sunday, January 11th ​Time: 3:00 to 7:00 pm Location: Shanti Home: Rue Darwin 8, Brussels 1190 (Forest) ​\*There are three spots available for Constellations. Contact me if you'd like to reserve one of these spots. \*Spots are limited for both roles to ensure enough space in the room, although the room is very spacious. *Modified price for students or if you are unemployed. Write me if this is your case.​*Payment must be made beforehand. You can register either to the following account or pay by credit card or PayPal by following the link to the website. Register here: https://www.gettotheorigin.com/brussels-events For bank transfer instead, email Meghan for details. ​Contact: Meghan +32 468 455 273 meghan@gettotheorigin.com www.gettotheorigin.com

Or from Trammuseum to Africa museum. Or from Woluwe park to Tervuren park. Are you aware of all the ponds and lakes east of Brussels? How would they look like when frozen? Let's do 16 km to find out.😊 The moderate speed (4+ km/hour) hike takes us from the Woluwe park, through fancy neighborhood and Rouge Cloitre through the big forest where multiple ponds and streams are to be discovered in their semi-/frozen state. Before we end up in the nice cafetaria of the Africuseum, with maybe a mug of warm chocolat, we will wander through the forest to have a view of the lakes of the Tervuren park. Please add layers of clothing to handle -5°C as well as 0°C. Bring your thermosflask with warm liquid and some snack. The cafetaria is close to the tram44 end/start location. https://sttimetabmainsiteprdwe1.blob.core.windows.net/horaires/44/Horaires/20260105/NL_HL_44_20260105_Col.pdf For people out of town, you can park your car at Brasserie des Étangs Mellaerts.

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 -> New Year = Time to get back on the mat ! :) 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a complete beginner, come and join us every **SUNDAY MORNING - from 11:00 to 12:15 - for Queer Yoga in Brussels :)** No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes (mats are provided) and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * This is an "open event" - for everyone, LGBTQ people and their friends no matter their **gender, age, race, sexual orientation or level of fitness / practice**. * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * Ring bell "MERCI WELLNESS" - third floor ! * ⏰ 11:00 to 12:15 (doors close at 10:55 as **class starts at 11:00 sharp** \- it is not possible to join late\)\. 💸 **Cost:** * First class: 10 euros 🌟 * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. **Come and this great group of Sunday Morning Yogis** \- to spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga\, from increased flexibility\, better posture\, a stronger body to a calmer mind\. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️✨ Edson P.S. Also, make sure to check out our new class **"Yoga for Men"** \- every Wednesday at 18:30 in the same location \- you can find the class list on our Meetup main page \!

Join us for a magical day trip to the "Pearl of the Eifel"! We will take the train to Eupen and a scenic bus ride into the German hills for a crisp winter hike, followed by a warming lunch in the historic town center. 🌨️ Why We Are Going (The Winter Magic) Monschau is often called a "real-life snow globe." Under a blanket of snow, the town transforms: * The "Snow Globe" Effect: The slate roofs of the 300-year-old half-timbered houses look stunning dusted in white. * River Views: The Rur River winds through the town, and in winter, the banks and old water wheels create a perfect frosty backdrop. * Panoramic Silence: We will hike up to viewpoints where you can see the entire snowy valley and the Eifel hills stretching out in winter silence. 📍 Meeting Point: Brussels Central Station (Main Hall, near the departure board) ⏰ Meeting Time: 07:45 AM (Departure is 08:01 sharp!) 🥾 The Hike: Monschau Rur Valley Loop 35 We will tackle Loop 35, a scenic route mixing nature and history. * Distance: 8.0 km * Elevation Gain: ~295 m * Duration: ~3 hours * Difficulty: Moderate * Terrain: Winter forest trails, cobblestones, and potential snow/mud. 🚆 The Schedule (Confirmed) We are following a strict schedule to maximize daylight. 🏁 DEPARTURE: * 07:45: Meet at Brussels Central. * 08:01: Take IC Train (Direction Eupen). * 09:42: Arrive at Eupen. * Transfer (16 min) * 09:58: Take Bus 385 (Direction Monschau/Kalterherberg) from Eupen Bahnhof. * 10:27: Arrive at Monschau Schmiede. * 10:30 - 13:30: HIKE (Approx. 3 hours) 🍽️ LUNCH: * 13:30: Post-hike lunch in Monschau. We will find a cozy spot for Schnitzel, Monschau mustard soup, or hot cocoa. 🔙 RETURN: * 15:32: Take Bus 385 from Monschau Schmiede. * 15:58: Arrive at Eupen Bahnhof. * Transfer (19 min) * 16:17: Take IC Train (Direction Ostende) from Eupen. * 17:55: Arrive back at Brussels Central. 💶 Costs & Tickets * Organising Fee: €5 per person (paid via Payment Link). * Members: Voyager and Ambassador members are exempt from this fee. * Not a member yet? Check out our membership options here: https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership * Transport: Everyone is responsible for purchasing their own train and bus tickets. * Tip: Buy a return train ticket to Eupen. The bus ticket (Eupen <-> Monschau) can be bought on the bus or via the TEC app. 🎒 Equipment & Safety (Important!) Winter hiking requires specific preparation. * Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are mandatory. * Anti-Slip Gear: The path can be icy or slippery. We highly recommend bringing anti-slip spikes (crampons) for your shoes. You can find affordable ones at Decathlon. * Clothing: Dress in warm layers (thermal base, fleece, waterproof shell). Don't forget a hat and gloves. ⚠️ Disclaimer & Liability By signing up for this event, you understand and agree to the following: * Nature of Activity: Hiking involves inherent risks, including but not limited to slips, falls, and weather-related injuries. Winter conditions (ice, snow, mud) increase these risks. * Personal Responsibility: You are responsible for your own safety, equipment, and physical preparedness. The organizers are volunteers, not professional guides. * Liability: The organizers and the Meetup group accept no liability for any accidents, injuries, loss, or damage to personal property that may occur during the event. You participate entirely at your own risk. * Insurance: It is your responsibility to ensure you have adequate personal health and accident insurance valid in Germany. Ready for a winter adventure? RSVP now! By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Purchase your ticket via this [link](https://www.billetweb.fr/restful-reset-gong-bath-en-fr) \- achetez vos billets [ici](https://www.billetweb.fr/restful-reset-gong-bath-en-fr) FR plus bas 🌿 **Restful Reset – Gong Bath** 🗓 **Sunday, January 11 · 4:00 pm** 📍 **Yoga Studio Brussels** After the intensity of the beginning of the year, this gong bath is offered as a deep pause — a moment to slow down, settle the nervous system, and gently return to balance. This session is intentionally **restful rather than stimulating**. Through sound, silence, and vibration, the body is invited to shift from mental activity into deeper listening, breath, and sensation. 🔔 **The sound journey unfolds through planetary qualities:** ☀️ Sun – clarity, vitality, inner orientation 🌙 Moon – rest, receptivity, emotional regulation 💗 Venus – harmony, softness, self-care 🌀 Mercury – mental digestion, integration, calming the mind 🌍 Earth – grounding, stability, embodiment (including Schumann resonance) Rather than pushing or releasing, this gong bath supports **integration and recalibration**, allowing the nervous system to rest and reorganize. 💶 **Price** • 35 € (one person) • 32 € per person when coming two or more ⚠️ **Early booking recommended** — places are limited and sessions tend to fill up. 📩 **Bookings & info:** bookings@nirmalkaram.com ✨ A space to rest, integrate, and realign. *** 🌿 **Restful Reset – Bain de gong=** 🗓 **Dimanche 11 janvier · 16h00** 📍 **Yoga Studio Brussels** Après l’intensité du début de l’année, ce bain de gongs est proposé comme une pause profonde — un temps pour ralentir, apaiser le système nerveux et revenir doucement à l’équilibre. La séance est pensée comme un espace de repos, plutôt que comme une expérience stimulante. À travers le son, le silence et la vibration, le corps est invité à quitter l’activité mentale pour entrer dans une écoute plus fine de la respiration et des sensations. 🔔 **Le voyage sonore s’articule autour de qualités planétaires :** ☀️ Soleil – clarté, vitalité, orientation intérieure 🌙 Lune – repos, réceptivité, régulation émotionnelle 💗 Vénus – harmonie, douceur, soin de soi 🌀 Mercure – digestion mentale, intégration, apaisement du mental 🌍 Terre – ancrage, stabilité, incarnation (incluant la résonance de Schumann) Plutôt que de provoquer une catharsis, ce bain de gongs soutient une recalibration douce, permettant au système nerveux de se déposer et de s’organiser. 💶 **Tarif** • 35 € (une personne) • 32 € par personne à partir de deux personnes ⚠️ **Réservation anticipée recommandée** — nombre de places limité. 📩 **Réservations & infos :** bookings@nirmalkaram.com ✨ Un espace pour se déposer, intégrer et s’aligner.

🧘‍♀️ Je vous propose un cours complet de Yoga Hatha de 75 minutes complet, adaptés à tous les niveaux. Dans cette pratique, nous explorerons des postures et des exercices respiration qui vous permettront d'étirer et de libérer votre psoas et toutes les tensions qui s'y trouvent. 🎶 Ensuite, je vous emmène dans un voyage sonore et vibratoire, un moment de relaxation profonde qui va également vous permettre de relâcher les blocages et tensions, qu'elles soient émotionnelles, mentales ou physiques. 🫖 Nous clôturons l’atelier autour d’une tisane et d’un petit goûter. 🌱 Découvrez le merveilleux studio La Vallée, entre les étangs d'Ixelles et l'avenue Louise. Un havre de paix lumineux et chaleureux. ✨ Programme ✨ \* 14h : Yoga Hatha, cours complet avec petite méditation initiale, postures et pranayama (exercices de respiration) \* 15h15: Voyage sonore \* 16h: Clôture, tisane et petit goûter ✨ Prix ✨ 35 € / pers. 65 € / 2 pers. ✨ Yoga Vallée ✨ Rue de la Vallée 51, Ixelles ​ ✨ Inscriptions & informations​ ✨ Pour réserver votre place ou pour plus d'infos, contactez-moi ! \> info@eliserousse\.com \> WhatsApp: \+32 497 299 808

**Gathering in community is an essential part of being human.** When we sing, share, play, dance, hold rituals, eat together… We move beyond dogma. The Gathering is about the simple yet radical choice to gently ease open our hearts and trust the voice of love to guide the way. * REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9 Many of us have become isolated in our spiritual journeys, atomised by our individual interests, unaware of the mycelial network that connects us and the abundance of resources available to help us flourish. **The Gathering is about remembering the sacredness of life, our belonging in a wider community and that our soul-given gifts are designed to be lived and shared.** The Gathering takes place in Brussels once or twice a month on a Sunday afternoon. Starting with a **singing circle** and a moment of **contemplation**, participants then choose between **practices exploring different aspects of connection - to self, to other, and to life**. We finish the afternoon together with a **potluck meal**. * REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9 * VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO >>> https://bit.ly/4iFjoiU **\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~PRACTICAL INFO\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\*** **{ TIMING }** * \~ Please arrive between 13:45-14:15 so we can start together. The doors will close promptly at 14:15. * \~ The circle and activities will last until 18:00, so please make sure you are able to be present until then. * \~ Everyone is welcome to stay afterwards to share food until 19:00. **{ BRING }** * \~ a meditation cushion or a pillow (there is nothing provided in the space!) * \~ your water bottle * \~ clothes you can move comfortably in * \~ a blanket, warm socks and/or sweater (optional, if you easily get cold) * \~ a yoga mat (optional, for extra cushioning) * \~ food to share (optional, for potluck) **{ ACCESSIBILITY }** * \~ The event will be mainly in English, but some practices may be proposed in other languages. * \~ Children are very welcome! There will be at least one children-friendly practice available. * \~ The space is wheelchair-accessible, although for practical reasons please indicate it on the registration form. **{ GIFT MODEL }** The Gathering is experimenting with a gift model, meaning that everyone is invited to contribute as they can. Gifts can take many different forms. Time, energy, experience, food, knowledge, wealth, skills, creativity, love… This does not mean that money is ignored. There are costs associated with renting the space and money is needed in order to further develop the project. **We will ask participants during the afternoon to contribute consciously and according to their means. However, money should not prevent anyone who wants to join, to be able to join.** How would you like to contribute? There are infinite ways to share your gifts, from helping with the costs, to helping with the set up, to guiding a practice, to cooking a group meal... And if you don’t feel like you are able to contribute anything right now, you are still welcome. * REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9 * VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO >>> https://bit.ly/4iFjoiU

Purchase your ticket via this [link](https://www.billetweb.fr/restful-reset-gong-bath-en-fr) \- achetez vos billets [ici](https://www.billetweb.fr/restful-reset-gong-bath-en-fr) FR plus bas 🌿 **Restful Reset – Gong Bath** 🗓 **Sunday, January 11 · 4:00 pm** 📍 **Yoga Studio Brussels** After the intensity of the beginning of the year, this gong bath is offered as a deep pause — a moment to slow down, settle the nervous system, and gently return to balance. This session is intentionally **restful rather than stimulating**. Through sound, silence, and vibration, the body is invited to shift from mental activity into deeper listening, breath, and sensation. 🔔 **The sound journey unfolds through planetary qualities:** ☀️ Sun – clarity, vitality, inner orientation 🌙 Moon – rest, receptivity, emotional regulation 💗 Venus – harmony, softness, self-care 🌀 Mercury – mental digestion, integration, calming the mind 🌍 Earth – grounding, stability, embodiment (including Schumann resonance) Rather than pushing or releasing, this gong bath supports **integration and recalibration**, allowing the nervous system to rest and reorganize. 💶 **Price** • 35 € (one person) • 32 € per person when coming two or more ⚠️ **Early booking recommended** — places are limited and sessions tend to fill up. 📩 **Bookings & info:** [bookings@nirmalkaram.com](mailto:bookings@nirmalkaram.com) ✨ A space to rest, integrate, and realign. \*\*\* 🌿 **Restful Reset – Bain de gong=** 🗓 **Dimanche 11 janvier · 16h00** 📍 **Yoga Studio Brussels** Après l’intensité du début de l’année, ce bain de gongs est proposé comme une pause profonde — un temps pour ralentir, apaiser le système nerveux et revenir doucement à l’équilibre. La séance est pensée comme un espace de repos, plutôt que comme une expérience stimulante. À travers le son, le silence et la vibration, le corps est invité à quitter l’activité mentale pour entrer dans une écoute plus fine de la respiration et des sensations. 🔔 **Le voyage sonore s’articule autour de qualités planétaires :** ☀️ Soleil – clarté, vitalité, orientation intérieure 🌙 Lune – repos, réceptivité, régulation émotionnelle 💗 Vénus – harmonie, douceur, soin de soi 🌀 Mercure – digestion mentale, intégration, apaisement du mental 🌍 Terre – ancrage, stabilité, incarnation (incluant la résonance de Schumann) Plutôt que de provoquer une catharsis, ce bain de gongs soutient une recalibration douce, permettant au système nerveux de se déposer et de s’organiser. 💶 **Tarif** • 35 € (une personne) • 32 € par personne à partir de deux personnes ⚠️ **Réservation anticipée recommandée** — nombre de places limité. 📩 **Réservations & infos :** [bookings@nirmalkaram.com](mailto:bookings@nirmalkaram.com) ✨ Un espace pour se déposer, intégrer et s’aligner.

This is an open Circle for anyone and open to constellate on any subject. It's a good way to get started if you've been wanting to see what Constellations is all about. We will start with some bodywork exercises and then there will be time for three Constellations on any topic. ​A Constellation is a means for accessing the timeless map you hold within, linking the past to the present and the present to the future. It's a tool to find the origin of the problems we face today such as repeated patterns, blockages, relationship difficulties or health concerns, to name a few, and has the power to reveal hidden dynamics not visible to the normal eye. Then a healing exchange takes place and steps are taken to free you from the past and put you on a road to freedom, understanding and authenticity for your future. ​There are two ways to participate, either as a participant or Space Holder in the Circle or to bring a topic to constellate as an Issue Holder, which is limited to three places. Although one person will bring a subject to constellate, everyone participates. A Constellation is a Healing Circle for all who attend. ​ Price for Space Holders: 45 Euros (12 spots) Price for Issue Holders: 145 Euros (3 spots) ​Date: Sunday, January 11th ​Time: 3:00 to 7:00 pm Location: Shanti Home: Rue Darwin 8, Brussels 1190 (Forest) ​\*There are three spots available for Constellations. Contact me if you'd like to reserve one of these spots. \*Spots are limited for both roles to ensure enough space in the room, although the room is very spacious. *Modified price for students or if you are unemployed. Write me if this is your case.​*Payment must be made beforehand. You can register either to the following account or pay by credit card or PayPal by following the link to the website. Register here: https://www.gettotheorigin.com/brussels-events For bank transfer instead, email Meghan. ​Contact: Meghan +32 468 455 273 meghan@gettotheorigin.com www.gettotheorigin.com

Join us on our weekly Sunday run to get your day started on the right foot. Whether you're a first-timer with the Brussels Runners Meetup or a familiar face, we can't wait to see you there! [Find us on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/1211350/group_events/3431565227328502990) *What to Expect:* Distance : \~13 km. Pace : \~6 min/km. Mixed Terrain : A combination of dirt paths, forest trails, and possibly some road sections. Scenic Views : Enjoy the beauty of nature as we traverse diverse landscapes. Good Company : Run with like-minded individuals and make new friends. Post-Run Coffee : Optional post-run gathering for refreshments and camaraderie. Bag Drop : Available. **Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. Questions and comments are welcome.

Hi WW's, This Sunday we shall do a loop walk starting and finishing in Elewijt. The walk should look something like this : https://mapy.com/s/dulorotugo You should wear good clothing and walking shoes for all eventualities. Bring snacks and drink to keep you going. The Apres Walk venue will be at the the Sweyn Beer brewery , where they have craft beers . I think they serve small snacks to have with your drink. [beerhome - Sweynbeer](https://sweyn.beer/) We plan to start on time, so if you are late , please follow the map to catch us up. We will meet in front of the Sint-Hubertuskerk. Tervuursesteenweg 774 is opposite. There is parking nearby. By joining this event, you decline any responsibility to Waterloo Walkers. Thank you for your understanding. See you on Sunday. Rory.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

**Practice presence, boundaries, and authentic relating in a warm, beginner-friendly circle for real connection and growth.** This monthly connection circle offers a warm and welcoming space to deepen your relational skills using the technique of Authentic Relating. Together, we will practice being present, boundaried, and real with ourselves and with others. Each month, we focus on essential themes like presence, boundaries, and communication. You'll learn a bit of technique, then have the opportunity to explore and practice with others in a supportive group setting. This event is open to all and beginner friendly. You’re welcome to come on your own or with your partner(s), though no partner is required to participate. Most of our time will be spent seated in chairs, with optional invitations to stand or move. Your participation is always your choice. Consent, autonomy, and safety are core values in this space. **[Tickets can be purchased in advance](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/the-center-for-conscious-connection-4337003) or in person** and are offered on a sliding scale ($22 to $44). After our circle, we’ll enjoy some light snacks and informal social time. **Important details:** * Arrival time is between 6:45 PM and 7:15 PM * Doors will be locked at 7:15 PM to maintain the integrity of the container * You are welcome to leave at any time if needed * Please bring a water bottle * This is a sober space. Alcohol and substances are not permitted **Schedule:** * 6:45 to 7:15 PM – Arrival and check-in * 7:15 to 8:30 PM – Facilitated Authentic Relating Circle Experience * 8:30 to 9:00 PM – Social time and snacks Our circle is led by **Robyn Bragg**, a relationship and embodied intimacy coach who creates grounded and sacred space for people to grow more fulfilling relationships rooted in trust and communication. Robyn believes that personal growth, presence, and a sense of humor are essential tools for navigating love and connection. She also offers workshops and coaching both online and in person. To stay updated on future offerings or to explore volunteer opportunities, be sure to connect with Robyn or join her mailing list.

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

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