LIfestyle of Health and Sustainability

イングリッシュHang outやってます！ イングリッシュハングアウトとは、簡単にいうと「英語でおしゃべりする会」です！ Hangoutとは、日本語で”(友達と)遊ぶ”という意味で、おしゃべりとかゲームをしながら室内でリラックスしながら過ごす感じです。 それをカフェで英語でハングアウトしましょう！という時間です。 どなたでも、予約なしで参加していただけます。途中参加退席自由です。カフェでのオーダーをお願いします。 英語の練習をしたいけど、英会話教室に行くほどではないけど気軽にしゃべる機会を探している人や、英語で話せる友達を探している人にぴったりです。 We are hosting a casual English hangout time for locals to connect with international travelers & our international staff. Anyone can join. Even if your English level is very low, you can still listen and learn. The conversations are open, and you may join or leave at any time. Please make one order from the cafe.

イングリッシュHang outやってます！ イングリッシュハングアウトとは、簡単にいうと「英語でおしゃべりする会」です！ Hangoutとは、日本語で”(友達と)遊ぶ”という意味で、おしゃべりとかゲームをしながら室内でリラックスしながら過ごす感じです。 それをカフェで英語でハングアウトしましょう！という時間です。 どなたでも、予約なしで参加していただけます。途中参加退席自由です。カフェでのオーダーをお願いします。 英語の練習をしたいけど、英会話教室に行くほどではないけど気軽にしゃべる機会を探している人や、英語で話せる友達を探している人にぴったりです。 We are hosting a casual English hangout time for locals to connect with international travelers & our international staff. Anyone can join. Even if your English level is very low, you can still listen and learn. The conversations are open, and you may join or leave at any time. Please make one order from the cafe.

🌿 Wild Edibles: Late Spring Foraging Walk (NHSM Program) Have you ever wondered what edible plants grow quietly around us in Maryland forests? Join members of our group for a guided **wild edible plant walk** hosted by the Natural History Society of Maryland. We’ll be attending **Wild Edibles: Late Spring Plants**, a field program led by experienced forager Nick Spero. During the walk, participants will learn how to identify edible plants that emerge in Maryland’s woods during late spring. Along the way, instructor Nick Spero will discuss safe identification, ethical harvesting practices, and how these plants have traditionally been used for food and flavor. Species often discussed include **wild ginger, ramps, spicebush**, and other seasonal plants that grow in our region. The program is designed as a relaxed **nature exploration with discussion and plant identification along the trail**. Expect light to moderate hiking, frequent stops to observe plants up close, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn from the landscape. More details about the program can be found here: [https://www.marylandnature.org/get-involved/events/event/wild-edibles-late-spring-plants-with-nick-spero-2/](https://www.marylandnature.org/get-involved/events/event/wild-edibles-late-spring-plants-with-nick-spero-2/) — 🥾 Difficulty — Easy to moderate walking with frequent stops for plant identification and discussion. — 💲 Cost — This is a **paid program organized by the Natural History Society of Maryland**. • Non‑NHSM Member — **$45** • NHSM Member — **$35** — 📍 Location — The exact meeting location is not listed unless you register for the event. In general, the event is Northeast of Baltimore and about an hour from Shady Groove Metro. — 📝 Registration — Members who plan to attend should **RSVP here on Meetup and also register directly with the Natural History Society of Maryland through their website**. Participants will **pay NHSM directly** when registering for the program. — 🎒 What to Bring — Based on the Natural History Society of Maryland's recommendations for this program: • Weather‑appropriate clothing (layers work best) • Sturdy closed‑toe hiking shoes or boots with good traction • Water and snacks • Sun protection such as sunblock and a hat • Bug spray if desired • Optional: a camera, guidebook, binoculars, or a small magnifying lens for examining plants These items help ensure everyone is comfortable during the walk and able to closely observe the plants we encounter along the trail. — 🚗 Carpooling — Once the location is confirmed, we can **coordinate optional carpooling through the Meetup event page** for anyone interested in sharing a ride. This should be a great opportunity to **learn about native plants, explore the landscape together, and deepen our understanding of the food that grows around us**.

Join us for a volunteer day helping the animals at Rosie's Farm Sanctuary in Potomac, MD. Before attending this event, you must sign a liability waiver. Please use this link [https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/) The chores you will be doing are physical. You will be working on big projects that require many volunteers like removing old bedding, sanitizing stals and replacing with new bedding, along with the daily clean up chores. Wear boots and clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Feel free to bring a filled water bottle. On sunny days a brimmed hat and sunglasses may be helpful. Sunscreen is also suggested. Please do not bring any food or yummy-smelling items on your body or in your bag as our animals love to eat and are on special diets. Out of respect for the animals, we do not allow any food with animal products to be consumed at Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. Please ensure that all edible items are plant-based (no dairy, no cheese, no cow’s milk ice cream, no meat, no fish, no eggs). Thank you for your cooperation and respect for this. It is very important to us. There is a gift shop where you can browse and warm up during the event. Please post your pictures and tag Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and VSDC! Stick around at the end for a group photo behind the barn. If there is interest, we may go out to eat in one of our local vegan restaurants afterward. We are limited to 30 volunteers, so please change your RSVP if you cannot attend. Rosie's Farm Sanctuary is always in need of volunteers. If you want to volunteer with them outside of VSDC's volunteer days, make sure to visit [Rosies Farm Sanctuary ](https://rosiesfarmsanctuary.org/volunteer/) to sign up. By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **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.**

**🪷 Cost: This event has a fee.** Multiple price options are available. To attend this event, you must use this link: 🍃[Held by Earth and Sound](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/held-by-earth-and-sound-movement-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath) **Sign up early to reserve your spot.** 🍃You are invited to enter the forest not as a visitor, but as someone who belongs. We’ll begin with gentle, standing mindful movement, an opportunity to release tension and ease into a slower, more grounded pace. From there, you’ll experience a taste of forest therapy, inviting you to awaken your senses and reconnect with the natural world. Through simple invitations, you’ll have space to notice, wander, and reconnect with the land, yourself, and the present moment. We’ll then transition into rest, settling into a lounge chair, gently swaying in a hammock, or lying directly on the earth. Gazing up into the forest canopy, you may notice your body softening as the tones and vibrations of the instruments move through you, blending with the natural woodland soundscape. 😌 **Meeting Point:** We will meet in Lucketts, Virginia; the specific address will be provided once you register. Meet in the parking area at 11:50 pm. We will start at 12:00 pm. **Preparation:** Bring: * Water * Layers of clothes based on the weather * ​Sturdy comfortable shoes * Hiking poles (optional & we have some to lend) **🪷 Cost:** **This event has a fee.** Multiple price options are available. To attend this event, you must use this link: 🍃[Held by Earth and Sound](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/held-by-earth-and-sound-movement-forest-therapy-and-sound-bath) 🌐 **Newsletter:** [CLICK HERE](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to sign up for Imagine Well Being’s mailing list. Stay informed on the latest news, upcoming events, and retreats! **⭐️ Liability Release:** With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all events, gatherings, and retreats are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine events, gatherings, and retreats. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and co-directors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care, and I assume responsibility for all associated costs. **I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.**

Do you have goals focusing on your health this year? In this group, be de-influenced by internet trends and companies making a quick buck and join fellow pagans, witches, and heathens in creating practices that build your connection to your body and wellness. **The focus of this group:** -Share on your own experiences with health topics, whether that is food wellness, strength building, mobility training, and coordinating group walks and physical activities. -Lean into our spiritual practice as a tool in manifesting our health goals. -Mindfulness activities that can improve your body-spirit connection. -Share your own thoughts and struggles in an advice-centered and solutions oriented space that is respectful, intentional, and empathetic. Have you heard about a new trend you want real life opinions on? Are you looking for strategies **About your facilitator:** Merlin is a local practitioner in Massage Therapy, Reiki, Group Fitness, and is interested in all around wellness. He has focused on his own health and wellness over many years and recognizes how much supportive community and intentional self-love is for finding value in a health journey. If you are seeking a supportive community with the intention of bravely sharing, being heard, and being present with others, please join us!

Please join us for the first ride of 2026 from Bethesda to Hains Point and back. We will be starting from the [Park and Ride for Capital Crescent](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BKo6KKeexQPENXHEA) trail in Bethesda. The meeting spot provides ample free car parking, and also it is convenient to get to from Bethesda Metro. Going to Georgetown will be a piece of cake (it is downhill). Coming back we will be digesting the cakes we eat. Before signing up, please make sure you will be able to sustain at least 10 mph average speed for this lengthy ride. Meeting point: [Park and Ride for CC Trail](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q8icfVLC4mdfagQj6) Date: Saturday, April 25 9:00am Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96](https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96) Length: 24 miles Difficulty level: strenuous (due to distance) Elevation change: 420 ft up & down Time: \~3 hours at moderate pace Pace: moderate \~10 mph Biking surface: paved Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads and sidewalks Metro accessible: yes (with an additional 1 mile of ride) Snack spot: we will be stopping in Georgetown for a snack. Multiple vegetarian options available: \- Chaia Tacos \- South Block Food/Water: Bring your own vegan snacks and (non-alcoholic) beverage to enjoy. Please carry plenty of water! Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page. *For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).* ***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*** *Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below* RULES * Pets are not allowed * Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event. * Practice safe biking habits including: * Wearing a bike helmet * Keeping safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes) * Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](http://vsdc.org/) 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 VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **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.**

We've been to the Reston location - this is their store in Fairfax. It's a little smaller, so I've set an attendee limit. Same menu, same good food, and I recommend the housemade blackberry syrup for a latte, or their Rose Matcha Latte. Both are kinda unique. This weekend we're meeting on Sunday, a great way to rest and reset, especially after a busy Saturday. Join me. (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 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.