Mindful Living

The first rule of WRITE CLUB is that you do not talk *during* WRITE CLUB. This very simple meetup is based on the premise that public and peer accountability enables more productive writing than sitting at home and getting distracted by the fridge. We will write/read for an hour in silence. (I will be writing thought experiments for my other meetup group: [THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS IN PUBS](https://www.meetup.com/thought-experiments-in-pubs)) If you'd like to hang out afterwards, or if you prefer just to hang out, I have another event immediately afterwards in the same place :-) You can find that here: [HANGING OUT AT THE SOUTHBANK](https://www.meetup.com/experimentsin/events/312667892) We'll make use of the fantastic indoor public spaces on London's South Bank (The Southbank Centre, The BFI Cafe, The National Theatre Cafe, etc) to spend time in the company of other people. There are plenty of places to buy refreshments, but you can also bring your own if you prefer. This first event will take place in the foyer of The Southbank Centre. You can find us by looking out for a big red flag with THE SUNRISE CLUB emblazoned on it (though this clearly isn't THE SUNRISE CLUB! If you want to find out about that, you can do so [here](https://www.meetup.com/the-sunrise-club/).) WHATSAPP GROUP - [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BpMwnRev0H237KMx4uPnek](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BpMwnRev0H237KMx4uPnek) Looking forward to meeting and writing with you :-) Bonny

Circling is a 'present moment relating' practice, sometimes described as a relational meditation. It’s done in a group or with another person and invites feeling into the subtleties of one’s present experience in connection with others, often using words to share that experience. **There is a beauty and power in the practice of circling and it is not for everyone. The practice may touch on some uncomfortable places, states, sensations or emotions. Circling invites a level of self responsibility and a willingness to set appropriate boundaries. Rather than a safe space think brave space, where we inquire and explore connection together.** **Please contact me if you would like to discuss further whether the practice might be right for you.** 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 aim to finish at 9pm. Opposite Elephant & Castle tube and Thameslink train station, and numerous bus routes. The practices of Circling and Authentic Relating are often linked or spoken about together. Authentic Relating emerged from Circling and tends to be more structured, with “games” and sentence stems acting like guide rails for connection. Circling in its purest form is an interpersonal meditation and encourages self leadership, and is less facilitated. Both elicit intimacy and you may find quickly creating deep appreciation of the people you’re with and surprisingly meaningful connections. Always hard to define though and much better, in my opinion, to experience them a few times to really get a sense of the difference/overlaps. **More about Circling and Terms of Service** Circling is a practice that involves looking at and being intimate with the structures of one’s personal reality, which includes how we make sense of experience, individually and collectively. We find these practices to consistently deliver deeply meaningful experiences, and believe a few clarifications now will likely make this more accessible to you. Because Circling is unique, carrying over assumptions from other practices can lead to misunderstandings about who we are, what we do, and how you are invited to engage. It is our intention to make it as clear as we can what Circling is and isn’t. **Responsibility** We see you as a free agent capable of honest self-assessment and responsible choice This is an invitation to take responsibility for: \- yourself and your experience \- choices you’re making about what you’re accepting as true and significant \- how you’re participating in and helping to sustain your situation \- the beliefs and choices you’re bringing to the situation \(wittingly or unwittingly\) that are informing your experience\. We refer generally to the willingness to take responsibility in these terms as “owning your experience.” **Not Psychotherapy** Circling as we practice it leads to transformational growth, but we do this through surrender, self-leadership, and interconnection rather than aiming for healing outcomes directly (like many modalities do). While honouring a wide variety of wisdom and psychological discernments from many schools of thought, we do not follow a therapeutic model of diagnosis and treatment. Our method is educational. Our emphasis is connection. We are guides in a journey of presence, connection, and aliveness. We do not prescribe choices or actions. We do not see you as being in a therapeutic relationship with me. We work in the present moment, assuming wholeness that can include greater wholeness, exploring connection, staying mindful to notice the cost of reality choices and labels that too easily lead to misunderstanding or pathologizing. We bring a fresh set of eyes to what is happening, with the aim of understanding how updating our beliefs about what is happening can update our reality. Circling is a practice of connection and meditation \- Focus on the present moment\. \- Maintain a non\-goal orientation that is encapsulated in the principle of “being with the other in their world\." **Is this Right for You?** Our workshops can be intense. People encounter places, states, emotions, beliefs, and sensations in themselves and others that are sometimes unfamiliar. We explore the unknown, the volatile, the ambiguous, as well as welcome emotions many deem as “negative” or “inappropriate” such as feelings of inadequacy, anger, sexuality, and joy. We refer to the willingness to feel difficult and uncomfortable truths as the “commitment to connection,” which of course includes a willingness to set appropriate boundaries, and speak a desire for space, distance, and non-contact. By attending our events you take responsibility for choosing to leave the practice or participate in any given moment—which might include getting intimate with these kinds of experiences. We will often explore multiple sides of seeming opposites at once, such as independence and interdependence, chaos and order, agreement and disagreement. We believe this can reveal an underlying unity of the immediacy of experience. If the above description of our workshops sounds potentially overwhelming or destabilizing for you, if you have mental illness or significant emotional challenges that you feel may be exacerbated by this type of transformational environment, or if you are not sure that you can be self-directed in taking care of your needs during the event, then we advise you not to enrol. **By registering you acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by these Terms of Service.**

An informal conversation for people ready to stop drifting and start designing their lives in 2026. ​​Most of us spend our lives running a script we didn't write: inherited from parents, culture, or old survival strategies. We achieve the goals, tick the boxes, and still feel like something essential is missing. ​​Deliberate living is about changing that. It's about understanding who you are — your values, strengths, patterns, and using that knowledge to design a life that's actually yours. ​​On January 23rd we're hosting an informal gathering for people who resonate with this idea. No workshop. No sales pitch. Just a conversation among like-minded people as we reflect on the year behind us, envision an ideal future and set the direction for the year ahead. Deliberate Living Story Manifesto: [https://www.marcobombardi.com/deliberate-life](https://www.marcobombardi.com/deliberate-life) Free DL Vision Creation tool: [https://thedeliberatelife.co.uk/island-vision](https://thedeliberatelife.co.uk/island-vision)

In these sessions, we will start to cultivate a relationship with our breath, so that we are able to work WITH it and USE it day to day, developing an inner sense of presence, self connection and resilience so that we are better equipped to navigate 'life'. We will also explore techniques to deepen and expand our relationship with our selves, others and with our past through our breath, and experience a guided conscious connected breathwork journey to release emotional blockages and tap into our inner wisdom for clarity, healing and transformation. You may experience a profound shift in your consciousness, deep inner healing and letting go, and a (re)connection with your true, authentic self. This event is ideal for those interested in self-help and self-evolution, energy healing, and exploring the depths of their spiritual nature. These workshops offer you a supportive space to let go of limiting beliefs, rejuvenate your energy, and awaken to the full potential of your being. Whether you are new to breathwork or have been practicing for years, this session will offer you a unique opportunity to dive deep into the healing power of your breath About Kate - Kate first experienced the incredible healing and transformational power of her own breath in 2016. Blown away by the insight, clarity and deep inner healing that unfolded in just one session, she went on to train with Transformational Breath and to then get certified as an Alchemy of Breath Facilitator in 2018. She has explored many modalities including Rebirthing and Holotropic, but primarily follows the Alchemy of Breath philosophy to breathwork, taking an intuitive approach to holding space for whatever wants to unfold and encouraging breathers to listen first and foremost to their own body and intuition, and to allow their breath to guide them wherever it is they need to go. Kate believes that we are our own healers, and that if we can simply breathe – here – now – and be willing and open to receive – then we can connect with that inner knowing, our eternal wisdom, and find all the answers we are looking for, all of the resolution we crave, and all of the guidance we need, to step forward in alignment with our true self, resourced and able to live our very best life. **General House keeping - Please read!** Please kindly make payment by bank transfer of £15 upon booking to secure your spot directly as spaces are limited to 5 per session. Band details - Kate Stephens, Lloyds Bank, Account No 01103229 Sort code 302580. Spaces are limited so pre booking and payment is required. Please kindly arrive on time at 11am. Please bring a bottle of water and a blanket (not essential) and an open mind and heart. You may also like to bring a note pad and pen. **Health & Safety first -** If you have any of the following conditions, this kind of Breathwork may not be right for you - Bipolar, Schizophrenia, acute heart conditions, cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, aneurysms, glaucoma, history of stroke, and the presence of severe psychiatric symptoms. If you have any of these please contact me directly at [breatheherenow01@gmail.com](mailto:breatheherenow01@gmail.com) before you book a session. It is paramount to me that your safety comes first!

Step into the live pulse, feel the floor ignite, Galician strings and voices cut the night. Ancient echoes breathing through the bass, Techno hearts and house rhythms interlaced. Baiuca bends tradition, breaks the mold, Old-world fire in circuits bold. A hypnotic ride, electric and deep, Where roots awaken and bodies keep. Tickets calling - secure yours now, Don’t wait for later, don’t ask how. [https://dice.fm/event/xenooe-baiuca-live-23rd-jan-village-underground-london-tickets](https://dice.fm/event/xenooe-baiuca-live-23rd-jan-village-underground-london-tickets) Come to listen, let the sound move through, Or stay and share what the night did to you.

Hello there! - We'd like to welcome you to Free weekly meetings hosted by Stephen & Jake which take place at the: Creative Nature HQ, Unit TW-008, Harrington Way, Woolwich, London, SE18 5NR on Friday evenings from 6.00pm until 7.30pm Email: [stephenstockbridge@gmail.com](mailto:stephenstockbridge@gmail.com) Tel: 07951 772 566 With Sahaja Yoga Meditation we normally sit on chairs to achieve yoga, effortlessly & spontaneously. So there is no need for mats and no special clothing required. All across the globe, many are seeking new sources of energy. Meanwhile, the most transformative energy of all is hiding in plain sight, within us. It's natural, sustainable, and infinitely renewable. It's called inner kundalini energy. And everyone already has it — everyone!. It is often likened to an inner feminine or motherly energy which automatically knows about us and what is needed to help us restore balance and harmony within our subtle being. It works spontaneously, effortlessly, organically and cannot be paid for. Sahaja Yoga Meditation is a simple time-honoured technique that lets you tap into that energy and harness its power to become better balanced and better connected to yourself — emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually If you're having trouble juggling the challenges in your life, Sahaja Yoga Meditation might well help you manage stress, master your emotions and find solutions to your problems . You may enjoy better health, better focus, and a deeper understanding of the universe and your place in it. Meditation is not just for mystics and monks. Sahaja Yoga meditation is for everyone. Anyone can do it. It's that easy. But with the Sahaja Yoga experience, you'll quickly realise, it isn't your typical Meditations 'R Us type class. It's much more than just feeling peaceful and relaxed. Sahaja Yoga Meditation has many layers, varied and deep. Explore at your own pace, in your own way. Our volunteer experts are always available to help. Ready to plug into your inner energy? A Sahaja Yoga Meditation class is a great way to start. A few minutes of your life may be all it takes to connect to your inner energy and light the path to lifelong transformation. Sahaja Yoga is more than a temporary solution or quick relief — it is a journey, rather than a destination. It's all about energy — guaranteed pure and carbon neutral. You can never have too much of it. The best part? All classes are free. No strings, no catch. Everyone is welcome. Bring a friend, bring your self — all are welcome. We have a web site here in London too which you can visit for more info about weekly meetings: www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk (http://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/) Join us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/London.Free.Meditation) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/SahajL)

Even though we communicate so much, and even with so many communication platforms, expressing ourselves clearly and listening actively is still a challenge for most of us. But if you want to deepen your relationships, make meaningful connections and increase your impact, with friends, loved ones, and those we live and work with, join us for strategies on how to: * speak well and listen better * be a confident and an effective communicator **This is a free in-person 60-minute seminar.** **If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please click** [here.](http://%5Bhttps//www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/%5D(https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/) "\[https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/\](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.

Hello, This event is for anyone who enjoys reading and wants to do it in the quiet company of others. We’ll be reading together in complete silence no pressure to talk, just bring whatever you’re reading and settle in. When you arrive, grab a drink from the café if you like, find a comfy spot, and start reading. We’re usually there for about 2 hours, but feel free to come and go whenever it works for you. Looking forward to meeting you! Dee

* **read event description before signing up** * **register on Meetup to attend** * **update RSVP if plans change** * **arrive at 2.50pm** * **read the Book before session** * **review the Questions** [Book 3 - In Carnuntum](https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_Thoughts_of_the_Emperor_Marcus_Aurelius_Antoninus/Book_III) *Reading Time - 15 minutes* *Knowledge of prior Books is not required* [Gregory Hays translation used in session](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Meditations-Translation-Modern-Library-Classics/dp/0812968255/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DYZJGWO42PUG&keywords=meditations+gregory+hays&qid=1656706450&s=books&sprefix=Meditations+Gregory%2Cstripbooks%2C91&sr=1-1) Meditations is one of the greatest works of spiritual and ethical reflection ever written. With a profound understanding of human behaviour, Marcus provides insights, wisdom, and practical guidance on everything from living in the world to coping with adversity to interacting with others. Explore this timeless collection that has been consulted and admired by leaders, readers and thinkers throughout the centuries. **Questions we'll explore** 1\. So we need to hurry\. Not just because we move daily closer to death but also because our understanding—our grasp of the world—may be gone before we get there\. \(1\) *How do you feel about this?* 2\. Don’t waste the rest of your time here worrying about other people—unless it affects the common good\. \(4\) *What can you usefully do?* 3\. To stand up straight—not straightened\. \(5\) *How would you go about this?* 4\. Forget everything else\. Keep hold of this alone and remember it: Each of us lives only now, this brief instant. The rest has been lived already, or is impossible to see. *(10)* *What are the implications?* 5\. If you\.\.\.\.—can find fulfillment in what you’re doing now\, as Nature intended\, and in superhuman truthfulness \(every word\, every utterance\)—then your life will be happy\. No one can prevent that. (12) *Do you agree or disagree?* **To fund the costs of** [room hire](https://bunhillquakers.org.uk/files/2025_bunhill_booking_info_trifold.pdf) **and** [Meetup subscription](https://www.meetup.com/blog/new-organizer-pricing-key-improvements/) **£15 is payable** To minimise admin there are no refunds/credits unless the meeting is cancelled. Refunds exclude Meetup/PayPal fees. **If you sign up and can no longer attend, please Edit RSVP asap to "Not going" so someone else can take your spot.** There is no waiting list if the event is full. Please check this Meetup page on the day of the event, as a spot may become available if there is a late cancellation. **If you sign up, and do not Edit RSVP to "Not going", and are a no show, you will be removed from the Group and can rejoin after 3 months.**

**SHAMANIC BASS TEMPLE** **An Ecstatic Shamanic Dance Journey** **✨ Live Percussion • 🍫 Cacao Ceremony • 🔮 Intention + Tarot Altar • 🌈 Mesmerising Visuals • 🍉 Fruit Social + Hangout** **SHAMANIC BASS TEMPLE** is back. A sober Saturday night in London where Ecstatic Rave meets Tribal Bass. **❤️ IMAGINE:** Dynamic, soul-stirring TRIBAL GROOVES + GLOBAL BASS that gets you out of your head and into your body. **💚 DREAM:** A heart-opening Cacao Ceremony with a Positive Intention Ritual + a Tarot altar to spark the inner myth-maker. **💛 CREATE:** Dance your visions into reality on our huge dancefloor with live percussion and immersive visuals. Best Saturday night out… and no hangover. Join the Sober ReLOVEution 💥 **For more info and booking:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shamanic-bass-temple-an-ecstatic-shamanic-dance-journey-cacao-ceremony-tickets-1979177718835?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shamanic-bass-temple-an-ecstatic-shamanic-dance-journey-cacao-ceremony-tickets-1979177718835?aff=oddtdtcreator) We’re chuffed to offer another SHAMANIC BASS TEMPLE to celebrate life in London. Expect DJ + live percussion, a cacao ceremony, and our classic fruit social to land the night together. **MUSIC VIBE:** Mystical • World Dub • Tribal Breaks • Global Bass **STYLE:** Freestyle, expressive dance. Be yourself! **ALL WELCOME:** No dance experience needed. **～ UPCOMING INDOOR EVENTS: JANUARY 2026 ～** 23 Jan — Cacao Dance Tribe: Afro-House & World Beats 24 Jan — The Ritual: All-Day Transformational Dance Gathering 24 Jan — Tantric Trance Dance Ritual: Blindfolded Tantric–Shamanic Dance Journey 24 Jan — The Gathering: Human Connection Ritual **Sign up for Discounts and save :** [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london) **Links + Community** **All events / retreats / festivals / crewing:** https://ecstaticdancelondon.com/events Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ecstaticdancelondon Instagram: @ecstaticdance_london **Mailing list:** [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london) **💛 FREE CREW SPACES** Want to help in exchange for a free ticket? You’ll need to have attended at least two indoor events before joining crew. Complete the crew sign-up form and we’ll be in touch. [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1S2I2tnQA0YOv_RmSbRYcLHW8fEUkTmUtQibWk8XX6zs) 💛 AWAKENING THE BREATH (Online) — Sundays 7pm–9pm Somatic Breathwork Journey: [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/awakening-the-breath-online](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/awakening-the-breath-online) 💛 1-to-1 Transformational Coaching [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/transformational-coaching](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/transformational-coaching) **Retreats + Big Dates (2026)** **💜 April 8–12 — Ecstatic Dance Spring Retreat 2026:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1976731914368?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1976731914368?aff=oddtdtcreator) [💜 July 22–26 — Ecstatic Dance Festival 2026®: ](💜 July 22–26 — Ecstatic Dance Festival 2026®: )[https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1979930666923?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1979930666923?aff=oddtdtcreator) **The Container** Guidelines: No booze • No shoes • No phones • No chit chat • Move however you wish • Respect yourself & others. Arrivals: Please arrive on time. No latecomers — this is a shared journey from start to finish. If you arrive more than 30 minutes after the start, you won’t be able to join. Thank you for respecting the container. Zero-tolerance sober space: This is a drug- and alcohol-free event. Please don’t come drunk or high — you will be refused entry or asked to leave. No refunds. See you on the dancefloor — bring your curiosity, your weirdness, and your best bass-face. 🔊🌀

**🌿 THE R I T U A L 🍃** **Saturday, January 24th 2026 - London** Join us for a powerful, immersive day of Somatic Embodiment, Conscious Connection, Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony. ✨ Step into a deeply transformational personal growth journey - a day to dance, move, connect, release, meditate & celebrate! Come for the full experience or join for individual sessions -everyone is welcome. **✨ The RITUAL includes:** **1. Tantric Trance Dance Ritual** **2. Conscious Connections & Ritual Breath Workshop** **3. Shamanic BASS Temple – Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony** **🎟️ More info & booking:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1978822519424?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1978822519424?aff=oddtdtcreator) **🎥 Watch the video:** [https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Dddj19xC-b0](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Dddj19xC-b0) ⸻ *“We have come to be danced… not the nice invisible, self-conscious shuffle… but the matted hair flying, voodoo mama shaman shakin’ ancient bones dance… the strip us from our casings, return our wings, sharpen our claws & tongues dance… the shed dead cells and slip into the luminous skin of love dance.”* — Jewel Mathieson ⸻ **📣 Join us on January 24th for this one-of-a-kind transformational urban retreat — an exploration of embodied relating through three beautiful journeys:** 🌟 11:45am–2:30pm — **Tantric Trance Dance:** a blindfolded Tantric–Shamanic Dance Journey 🌟 3:30pm–5:45pm — **The Gathering:** Conscious Connections & Authentic Relating Workshop 🌟 7:00pm–9:45pm — **Shamanic BASS Temple:** Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony ✨ Come for the full day or drop into any single session — all are welcome.

It’s 11.50 per class that is to be paid when you come for the class Our class is a gentle blend of yoga and meditation designed to help you slow down, ground yourself, and reconnect with who you are. Each session will guide you through mindful movement, calm breathing, and moments of stillness so you leave feeling centered, clear, and steady. Come as you are — this space is for you.

**🪷 Cost:** There is no fee for this event. Donations of skin, hair, and dental care products are encouraged. RSVP to [LaurenL@imaginebeingwell.org](mailto:LaurenL@imaginebeingwell.org) ❄️**Description:** As winter settles in, the quiet of the natural world reminds us to pause, restore, and reconnect. We invite you to join Imagine Well Being at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve in this spirit of reflection and care. We’ll begin indoors by assembling care kits for women in crisis, adding ribbon and a nature-inspired note of encouragement. Then we’ll gather around the fire to slow down and reconnect- sharing time in nature, listening inward, and building community. **👋🏼 Meeting Point:** Meet at the education building at 11:30. **🚙 Parking:** Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve. 21085 The Woods Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175 Google Map link: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/rrSuedfGCxco6zz67](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rrSuedfGCxco6zz67) **🪷 Cost:** There is no fee for this event. Donations of skin, hair, and dental care products are encouraged. RSVP to [LaurenL@imaginebeingwell.org](mailto:LaurenL@imaginebeingwell.org) **🎒Preparation:** Bring a favorite skin care, hair care, or dental care item-something meaningful to you, chosen for a woman in crisis. Items should be new and unopened, and will be distributed through the local nonprofit Women Giving Back. If you cannot attend, but would like to donate, email Lauren at LaurenL@imaginebeingwell.org. **🌐 Newsletter:** [Sign up Today for Imagine Well Being's latest news, upcoming events, and retreats!](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) **⭐️ Liability Release:** With my RSVP, I hereby confirm that I am physically able to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings, and workshops 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 instructors 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. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors 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.**

Mindfulness Meditation group practice every Wednesday evening at Unity of Gaithersburg. Mindfulness practice is not about achieving some special state of mind; it is more about noticing the experience you are having without trying to change it. This interesting video suggests why you might sit and watch your mind wander off. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmmBF8eTl18 This noticing tends to shift your nervous system from a 'fight-or-flight' state to a more relaxed and receptive state. In this receptive mental state, you begin to see your own experience differently and, over time, see other people and the world differently. Also, it is good for you: "the effect of regular meditation on the cortex was so profound that fifty-year-old meditators had a prefrontal cortex that looked like that of a twenty-five-year-old" [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT) Here is an interesting and funny take on meditation by Ajahn Brahm: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs). If you arrive on time, there will be an introduction at the beginning, if you arrive late, find a chair and join us. There will be some discussion after. This is a free event, but contributions to the church's expenses are welcome. You can just show up this Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays. More information at [https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org](https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org/)/

Fellow Reiki Practitioners are welcome as we practice self-care and channel healing energy by participating in an afternoon Reiki Share and guided meditation! Tables and sheets provided. Essential oils also available for added aromatherapy if desired. Reiki and complimentary modalities welcome. ***Love donations are always gratefully accepted.*** **Paypal.me/mediumcelestewoods** **Venmo to @celeste-woods-2**

Mindfulness Meditation group practice every Wednesday evening at Unity of Gaithersburg. Mindfulness practice is not about achieving some special state of mind; it is more about noticing the experience you are having without trying to change it. This interesting video suggests why you might sit and watch your mind wander off. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmmBF8eTl18 This noticing tends to shift your nervous system from a 'fight-or-flight' state to a more relaxed and receptive state. In this receptive mental state, you begin to see your own experience differently and, over time, see other people and the world differently. Also, it is good for you: "the effect of regular meditation on the cortex was so profound that fifty-year-old meditators had a prefrontal cortex that looked like that of a twenty-five-year-old" [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PLRZVTT) Here is an interesting and funny take on meditation by Ajahn Brahm: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR60RRmXeYs). If you arrive on time, there will be an introduction at the beginning, if you arrive late, find a chair and join us. There will be some discussion after. This is a free event, but contributions to the church's expenses are welcome. You can just show up this Wednesday or subsequent Wednesdays. More information at [https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org](https://www.unityofgaithersburg.org/)/

**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 us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.