New Buddhism

Regular Thursday meditations are suitable for anyone interested in Buddhism, and many people come back the next week (so don't worry if there's no-one showing as confirmed in Meetup; there's always a good group). There's an introductory talk about a basic Buddhist topic, followed by a guided meditation. Wear something comfortable for sitting on a meditation cushion. We start at 7:30 pm sharp. As befriending and learning from other practitioners is an integral part of Buddhist practice, we have a cup of tea beforehand and often socialise afterwards. Feel free to turn up from 7pm on.

***"In this complex and terrible development which has carried the epoch of class struggles toward new conditions, the proletariat of the industrial countries has completely lost the affirmation of its autonomous perspective and also, in the last analysis, its illusions, but not its being. It has not been suppressed. It remains irreducibly in existence within the intensified alienation of modern capitalism[.]"*** **\- Guy Debord\, *The Society of the Spectacle*** Welcome back readers! By popular request, we're bringing back (for a new generation of LMRG readers) an old favourite: the always-relevant Guy Debord and his masterful *Society of the Spectacle*. This is meeting two, where we'll be reading the fourth, fifth and sixth chapters. Find the classic text here: https://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/debord/society.htm Or an alternative, possibly more readable translation here: [https://files.libcom.org/files/The%20Society%20of%20the%20Spectacle%20Annotated%20Edition.pdf](https://files.libcom.org/files/The%20Society%20of%20the%20Spectacle%20Annotated%20Edition.pdf) Often maligned as theorymaxxed nonsense but little-read, this slim volume is certainly dense with ideas - all of which carry as much relevance today as those half-forgotten postwar years when the Situationist International made its mark on the world, if not more. With the rise of the Internet and social media, the decline of literacy and the closing of the mass mind, the endless doom-loop of doomscrolling and bed-rotting, increasingly performative protest, the commodification of everything, the Epstein-approved culture war, and the theatre of spectacular cruelty that is imperialist colonial policy from Gaza to Venezuela, we really are living an age where everything that was once directly participated in has passed into representation. Every hand-grip one searches for to get some kind of grasp on the world seems to be a mirage; "participation" in anything, from politics to culture, has been reduced to fandom - limited to nothing more than expressing approval or disapproval through totally mediated social media platforms. Above it all stands an utterly corrupt, irresponsible elite class more and more transparent in how it relishes in conspiratorial play, power-games with unlimited stakes for us and no consequences for them. Such a world where power wears a shit-eating grin and keeps us off our balance by endlessly[ "flooding the zone"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flood_the_zone) (in Steve Bannon's terms) with distractions so intricate they short-circuit the collective brain is exactly what Debord not only predicted but described in frightening detail, with more than a little bit of humour. So let's dig in and find out: just what can we do to unplug from the spectacle? Is the spectacle even un-plug-from-able? Debord haters, cope and seethe: as a much more orthodox Marxist than he ever gets credit for, there really are some strategies in here. We just need to be creative. Take care and happy reading!

Hello there! - We'd like to welcome you to Free weekly meetings hosted by Shalini & Manitu which take place at the: Greenwich West Community & Arts Centre, 141 Greenwich High Rd, SE10 8JA, on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm until 9.00pm 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)

Join us for some fun, competitive, but friendly games at our 4-court sports hall. We use Yonex Mavis 600 Nylon shuttles during the 2-hour session. **PAYMENT** * **Session Fee: £9** * We are cashless, kindly pay the session fee **by midnight** on the night before the session. You are welcome to pay early! You can even pay when you book! See our About page for the full process. * If no payment is received, you will be removed and may even be liable for a late cancellation fee if your spot is not taken. * Please use **“your meetup name + date of event”** as payment reference * **Account name:** Thomas Lam * **Sort code:** 04-00-03 * **Account number:** 7478 8608 **LATE CANCELLATION OR NO-SHOW** * **All** **no-shows or late cancellations** (24 hrs or less) will be charged if your spot is not taken by someone else - you will have a title next to your name with the amount and date owed. * Members with 2 no shows/late cancellations will be removed from the group unless outstanding payment is received * **The late cancellation policy** is set up to discourage last-minute cancellations and therefore applies with or without the presence of a waitlist * **Note:** If you are on the Waitlist and a spot becomes available, you will automatically be bumped onto the On list provided the event has not yet started. It is your responsibility to **remove yourself from the waitlist** if you can no longer make it to avoid being charged a no-show if someone cancels late. **PLAYING** * Please wait to be marked off before entering the hall. * Sessions are to finish promptly on the hour by school requests. * If you finish a match with 5 minutes to go, please start packing up instead of starting a new game. **RACKET HIRE** * Please note that we won't be hiring out rackets, so kindly bring your own racket. **PARKING** * There is parking available, but it is now paid parking. Parking is opposite the entrance. Please check the signs for parking payment instructions. **TRACK & TRACE** * We will collect your phone number on-site. Your phone number will also be used in case of fire to contact you if you have not made it to the fire evacuation areas. You can see maps at the venue. We are excited to see you guys on the court! Team LSBC

10 Week On-going Free Sahaja Yoga Mediation Course - Join any week - Hello there! - We'd like to welcome you to Free weekly meetings hosted by Manohar, Sat , Cristina, Tim, Larissa, Matthew - Learn to Meditate - Join us for weekly meditation sessions in Wanstead Community Hall on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm until 9.00pm - Wanstead Community Hall, 21 The Green, Wanstead, London, E11 2NT 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. Yoga is a sanskrit term which means union. 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 and will take you into higher awerness. It was started back in 1970's by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, who was the greatest living saint of out times. Now Sahaja Yoga is practised in more than 100 countries. 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)

Free On-going 10 Week Sahaja Yoga Mediation Course - Hello there! - We'd like to welcome you to Free weekly meetings hosted by Manohar, Sat , Cristina, Tim, Larissa, Matthew - Learn to Meditate - Join us for weekly meditation sessions in Wanstead Community Hall on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm until 9.00pm - Wanstead Community Hall, 21 The Green, Wanstead, London, E11 2NT **Thursday evenings from 7.30 pm until 9.00 pm** \- Please come in good time as doors close at 8 pm and might be difficult to get in\. Sahaja Yoga is a unique form of meditation that will enable you to connect with your deeper self, establishing a higher awareness within you resulting in a deep feeling of peace, calmness, balance, and joy. It is a tangible practical experience: Sahaja Yoga is “Subtle, Simple and Real”. It was founded by HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi ( 1923-2011) and has at its core the process of Self Realisation: connecting with your real Self through the awakening of the dormant energy in our sacrum bone called Kundalini who takes us into the deep peaceful state of thoughtless awareness. In the class, we will go through the process of Self Realisation and learn how to achieve the state of meditation effortlessly. Also, we will learn about balancing our subtle system, how to diagnose and solve our problems, and how to meditate at home. Sahaja Yoga helps all aspects of our life: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual, it is an extraordinary method, unique from any other types of meditations as it uses our own energy Kundalini who can correct our chakras, balance us, and take us to a much higher and deeper state of awareness. We do not need mats, we sit on chairs, it is easy and simple, Sahaja means spontaneous in Sanskrit, it is for all cultures, ages, religions, and backgrounds. There are free meetings all over London and the UK and also in more than 100 countries. If you are looking for well-being, harmony, and solving your problems, you want to get out of confusion, and mental health problems you are looking for answers then you are in the right place. Come along and try, no need to sign up, beginners are welcome anytime. **“Sahaja Yoga is a method by which our Pure Desire is fulfilled“ (from the founder Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi)**

May's Book: The Age of Diagnosis :Are Medical Labels Doing Us More Harm Than Good? by Suzanne O'Sullivan. **A BEST BOOK OF 2025 IN *THE TIMES*, *SUNDAY TIMES*, *FINANCIAL TIMES, GUARDIAN*, *ECONOMIST, OBSERVER, LONDON STANDARD, NEW STATESMAN* AND *IRISH TIMES*** ***'Revelatory. Slices through the contradictions that had tied me in knots.'* \- CHRIS VAN TULLEKEN** ***'So well-written. Raising awareness of something that is critically important.'* \- RANGAN CHATTERJEE** **From autism to allergies, ADHD to long Covid, more people are being labelled with medical conditions than ever before. But can a diagnosis do us more harm than good?** The boundaries between sickness and health are being redrawn. Mental health categories are shifting and expanding all the time, radically altering what we consider to be 'normal'. Genetic tests can now detect pathologies decades before people experience symptoms, and sometimes before they're even born. And increased health screening draws more and more people into believing they are unwell. An accurate diagnosis can bring greater understanding and of course improved treatment. But many diagnoses aren't as definitive as we think. And in some cases they risk turning healthy people into patients. Drawing on the stories of real people, as well as decades of clinical practice and the latest medical research, Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan overturns long held assumptions and reframes how we think about illness and health. The meeting starts at 7:30. Shortly after 7.30, we will break up into small groups. Those familiar with the CLH Book Group meeting know how this works: in each group we take turns introducing ourselves and giving our 1 minute thoughts on the book. It's important not to go over a minute and not to interrupt other people's minute so that everyone gets a chance to participate. After this first round, each group discusses for another 20 minutes or so. We then shuffle the groups so as to talk to as many different people as possible and in the new groups repeat our introductions and 1 minute thoughts. We'll do this a couple of times before coming all together at the end in one last big group. While we are very social and welcoming, the book group's primary focus is on discussing books. Feel free to turn up if you haven't managed to finish this month's book but note that the group works best when we have all read at least half of the book and are prepared to share our opinions. *** £3 per person to attend. If it's your first time, come and try us out for free! If you prefer, you can [pay online, by clicking here](https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZWCNRJ25BDL96). We encourage dialogue, debate and sharing of information on our site but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any views expressed here are those of the individual posting them and may not reflect those of CLH.

​Welcome to Hyde Park Hangouts! This group is all about 'occasionally' trading crowded, noisy bars for fresh air, great conversation, and low-stakes fun. ​Whether you’re new to London, looking to expand your social circle, or just want a relaxed way to spend a weekend afternoon, you’re in the right place. There are no cliques and no pressure—just good vibes, a casual lakeside picnic, and genuine human connection. 🎒 What to Bring ​ A picnic blanket or a jacket to sit on. ​Your favorite snacks and drinks (chilled beers, wine, soft drinks, whatever you fancy) ​ Your best energy for a few quick, high-energy icebreaker games like Zip Zap Boing to get everyone talking. Feel free to bring any games ​📍 Location & How to Find Us ​The Meeting Point: We are meeting directly outside the main entrance of the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen (right by the lakeside in Hyde Park). ​Nearest Tube: Knightsbridge is the closest (5-6 min walk), or you can use Hyde Park Corner (8-10 min scenic straight walk down Serpentine Road). ​Late Arrivals: We’ll hang by the cafe entrance for about 10 minutes before moving to a prime spot on the grass right next to it. If you’re running late, check the comments section - I’ll drop a live Google Maps pin of our exact spot! ​🚽 Facilities ​Public toilets are located right next to the cafe.

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)

**🌿The R I T U A L 🍃** **✅Saturday, May 23 2026** **✨Urban Retreat & Ecstatic Dance Gathering** 🌀Join us to step over the threshold into “the Ritual” and gift yourself a full day of transformation, healing, empowerment and reset. **💫You’ll be guided through a breakthrough programme including:** * \*Welcome Ceremony * \*Tantric Trance Dance process * \*Conscious Connections & Ritual Breathwork * \*Group Sharing / Integration time * \*Shamanic Bass Temple - Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony 🧘You’ll leave feeling recharged, lighter, clearer and deeply connected to your true self. You’re welcome to come for the whole day or drop into individual sessions. All are welcome! **For booking and more info:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987903571094?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987903571094?aff=oddtdtcreator) 1. **TANTRIC TRANCE DANCE RITUAL🍃** Join us for this Blindfolded Tantric-Shamanic Dance Journey! 💫Through this unique transformational dance process, you will be guided into befriending all the aspects of your Being. Your Embodied Nature, your Hearts deep longing, and your personal connection to the Great Mystery. **🧘An Active Meditation and Alchemical Practice for the 21st Century!** This is a very unique dance experience, a blending of ancient and contemporary transformational tools, including: Bioenergetics, Ecstatic Dance, Emotional Release (Catharsis), Chakra Journeying, Vipassana Meditation, Latihan ... with the powerful use of a blindfold - all these elements woven together to invite you into a deep state of presence, awakening & celebration. **🌀Our video of the Tantric Trance Dance Ritual:** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dddj19xC-b0](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dddj19xC-b0) 2. **THE GATHERING: Human Connection Ritual Workshop** You are invited to slow down… feel, and be seen. To come as you are. This is where inner exploration meets collective awakening! ***You are warmly invited to join us for THE GATHERING!*** ***In the heart of the city,*** ***Have a pause & take ... a breath.*** ***Step out of the noise and into presence.*** The Gathering is a Human Connection Ritual that blends modern breathwork with conscious connection practices. The Gathering invites you to slow down, feel, and be seen. Come as you are. Leave more yourself. Through embodied practices and conscious breathwork, we remember what it means to be fully alive... within ourselves, and with one another. 3. **SHAMANIC BASS TEMPLE - an Ecstatic Shamanic Dance Journey! + Live Percussion + Cacao Ceremony + Mesmerising Visuals + Fruit Social & Hangout** **❤️ IMAGINE:** A night of Dynamic, Soul-Stirring TRIBAL Rhythms and GLOBAL Bass **💚 DREAM:** a beautiful Cacao Ceremony with Positive Intention Ritual + Tarot Cards Altar **💛 CREATE:** Dance Your Dreams into Creation with our Huge Dancefloor, Live Percussion & Awesome Visuals! ✨Step into this transformational & very powerful personal growth all day retreat! *👉Dance, Move, Connect, Release, Meditate & Celebrate with us!* **✅Saturday, May 23 2026** **🧘Ecstatic Dance, Delicious Cacao, Epic Music!** **🌀MUSIC VIBES:** Shamanic Bass\-Heavy World Dub\|Tribal Breaks\| Global Bass\| Drum & Bass 4. 📣Join us for this One-of-a-Kind Transformational Urban Retreat. It’s an exploration of the practices and principles of Embodied Relating with 3 beautiful journeys! ✨The RITUAL✨ all-day workshop Includes: 1\. Tantric Trance Dance Ritual 2\. Conscious Connections & Ritual Breath Workshop 3\. Shamanic BASS Temple \- Ecstatic Dance & Cacao Ceremony *“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

Learn to Meditate - Fridays in Mayfair @ 5.45pm - 6.45pm Join our Free Sahaja Yoga Class Venue: Mayfair Library 25 South Audley St, London, W1K 2PB Achieve Yoga & enter into a state of ‘thoughtless awareness’. In the heart of London @ Mayfair Library, there is a weekly class in free meditation. **Achieve Yoga & Learn to Meditate in 2026 - 5:45- 6:45pm Fridays** The first experience of Sahaja Yoga meditation is called Self Realisation. With Sahaja Yoga Meditation we generally sit on chairs to achieve Yoga, effortlessly & spontaneously. As such no Asanas (exercises) are required, no mat or special clothing ## What is Meditation? Meditation is a state of mental silence or rest, where our attention is aware, but not engrossed in thinking. It is known as ‘thoughtless awareness’. It is achieved when the indwelling Kundalini energy awakens and carries the individual attention beyond the level of the 6th chakra, into the seventh chakra, known as Sahasrara. ## Yoga! It is here we achieve Yoga! As the mind finds rest and silence, we become able to feel our inner Self (Spirit). This can be tangibly felt, it actually manifests, as a cool wind, breath or breeze, often experienced on the palms of the hands or at the top (crown) of the head. It is a spontaneous, effortless natural happening. Each week many people experience this actualisation at one of the many free meditation classes on offer ## How to get into balance? The secret of the Sahaja Yoga method resides within us, at the base of the spinal chord, in a triangular bone called the “sacrum bone”. Since our birth in our sacrum bone dwells an inner energy called in Sanskrit Kundalini; it is characterised as a feminine energy and once activated, this energy rises along our spine until it reaches the top of the head and finally connects with the universal energy. This union is called “yoga” in Sanskrit. ## Kundalini As our indwelling Kundalini rises through the central channel, this benevolent feminine energy activates the chakras, removing all the impurities from them and nourishing the entire inner system. It is through this happening that we are elevated into ‘thoughtless awareness’, the mental silence of true meditation www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk Free Meditation & Yoga Classes in London Want to experience it now – Experience Self Realisation now – Guided Meditation ([https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/](https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/ "https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/")) ###

Join us for 10 Week Free Meditation Course - Starts April 23rd 2026 - all welcome - Join any Week **Venue:** Friends Meeting House, 120 Heath Street, Hampstead, London, NW3 1DR **Day**: Thursdays - **Time**: 7:30pm until 9.00pm - (come early & settle in) What we are about - Would you like to learn how to meditate, go beyond your thinking, balance your subtle system and learn simple tools for self-mastery? Yoga is a great way to underpin Health & Wellbeing. We are teaching meditation for many years free of charge – and we want to share this experience with everyone who is searching for inner peace. As a charity we do not charge for these courses. With Sahaja Yoga we generally sit on chairs to meditate, effortlessly & spontaneously. As such no Asanas (exercises) are required, no mat or special clothing. This community group is running to invite all those who might be interested in learning how to meditate and for those who want to achieve a deep connection with their true self. Many are curious as to what meditation actually is, its benefits and how to use it for self-help on a daily basis. The meetings aim to provide that insight and know how. The charity offers free bespoke classes that are designed to help those attending get into a genuine meditative state, which can be felt tangibly. It is quite effortless and spontaneous. The free classes feature introductory talks, videos, practical workshops and general question and answer opportunities and are available in person throughout the UK & online. Try Sahaja Yoga meditation classes and see for yourself the improvement to your mental, physical and emotional state. Benefits: \* Reducing stress and achieving inner peace through meditation. \* Tips on how to stay in balance during your day-to-day life and how to meditate at home. \*Connecting and feeling your innate chakras (energy centres) and balancing your subtle body with the help of simple and easy tools. \*Being in the present moment without thoughts about the past or the future. \*Achieving thoughtless awareness - a state of inner connection and peace \*Sharing this experience with others For further development we offer 1 day retreats to help those interested, deepen their individual experience and learn from those who have been practicing for some time. Come as you are. “Know Thyself” Socrates We very much look forward to welcome you

**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 13:45-14:00 - Arrive, grab your seat, shuffle around if you want to sit at a different table to meet new faces, and do table introductions. This is also when I check people in on the Meetup app. * 14:00-14:05 - Once everyone has been checked in, I give an explanation of Practical Philosophy read the guidelines, introduce the week’s philosophy topic, and share the jump-off points. * 14:05-14:55 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 14:55 onwards - We do a group conclusion of the things we discussed, and then we typically take a photo and go on our way :) If you don't want to be in the group photo, there's no pressure, it's just a way to close out the meeting. We occasionally have an unofficial social so the different groups can mingle afterwards too! **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend, and we operate on donations. If you'd like to donate to support our running costs, that helps keep our group self-sustaining. Donations are 100% voluntary, but your contribution is appreciated! QR codes to donate will be present. Tea’s and coffees and are paid by the individual should they wish to have them. **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** 🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * What will we talk about? What's the topic? The topic for the week is shared every week in the Whatsapp group before the session. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS). * Do I need to study or read anything to attend? No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on? The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * Is it mostly men that attend? Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * Can I come alone? Of course you can, we encourage it :) * Can I be late? Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow. * Where do you meet? The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). 🤝**POLICY** To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment. **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in 25+ countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/?hl=en) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club) 👈

Joyful Mind Zendo is happy to invite you to our **second Film Night** on Friday, May 22nd. We will be screening Pete Docter's film, Soul. **Details:** * Come at **6:00 PM** to the **basement Zendo (back door)** to help set up. * The screening will begin promptly at **6:30 PM**. * Bring pizza, popcorn, dips, or beverages to share. * The films running time is 101 mins, and will be followed by a short break and discussion. * Our evening will end by 9:00 PM. * Here is the [trailer](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DxOsLIiBStEs&ved=2ahUKEwikyd6FhpOUAxW0M1kFHV-7L6UQtwJ6BAgbEAI&usg=AOvVaw1W9KdDXTvHmHJhI5MGLxoZ). * **See you soon and invite a friend!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-**Film overview**\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Think animation is just for kids and can’t contemplate big themes? Think again, and join us for a screening of Pixar’s Oscar-winning film, Soul. Jamie Foxx voices Joe Gardner, a part-time music teacher and aspiring jazz pianist, whose life is dedicated to making it as a professional musician. On the day of his big break, he is nearly killed in a freak accident. On a conveyor belt to the “Great Beyond”, Joe escapes to the “Great Before”, a bardo in reverse, where the unborn are prepared for life on Earth. There he meets “22”, voiced by Tina Fey, and together they find out what’s makes life worth living. It’s rare that any film, animated or live action, can be so entertaining while simultaneously giving you so much to think about. Stick around after the screening for a discussion of how the film speaks to you.

Join us at 11:30 a.m. for a meditation class led by Khenpo Karze, followed by a public talk and Q&A. The meditation focus varies from class to class. We are currently learning how to meditate on the Four Immeasurables: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. The class begins with 30 minutes of meditation instruction, followed by 5-10 minutes of meditation practice, and then continues with discussion and Q&A. Each session concludes with a brief Chenrezig practice in which we recite Om Mani Padme Hung (a prayer of compassion), and a dedication prayer that our efforts benefit all beings. This class offers a strong foundation in meditation, helping cultivate inner peace and compassion amidst busy lives. All are welcome! This program is open to anyone with an interest in Buddhism and you can come to all or any part of the program. Families are welcome. There is no fee, but donations are encouraged. Join us! Class is offered IN-PERSON in our Prayer Room and ONLINE on [Facebook Live](https://www.facebook.com/KPCBuddhistTemple/) and [YouTube Live](https://www.youtube.com/@KunzangPalyulCholing/streams). You can also watch online here: https://www.tara.org/kpc-maryland-events-calendar/ About the teacher: Khenpo Tenzin Karze graduated from Ngagyur Nyingma Institute’s intensive Buddhist graduate course in 2006, and was awarded the degree of Khenpo, equivalent to a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy, in 2011. He has received teachings and empowerments from many great Nyingma masters, and taught extensively in various Palyul temples in Nepal, India, Europe and Taiwan. This is his first time in the USA. We are delighted that Khenpo is now in residence at KPC and will be providing traditional Dharma instruction to help us deepen our practice of wisdom and compassion.

Join us every Sunday, either in person or online, for our Shin Buddhist service. Dress is casual yet conservative, and everyone is welcome to come listen to the Dharma and learn the Nembutsu, chants and songs associated with our tradition of Shin Buddhism. As long as Fairfax County COVID spread rates remain low, face masks are optional. Our Dharma Discussion Group will meet immediately after the service. To attend the service and Discussion Group virtually, please use [this link](https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUudOiprDwiHtITyC2arOLCYAsAYZfQl4J4) or visit our website at www.ekoji.org.

This group is for anyone who wants to explore Buddhist meditation in a relaxed and supportive setting. Each session includes a short meditation, a simple teaching from Buddhist psychology, and an open discussion about how these ideas show up in everyday life. While our foundation is Buddhist practice, we love weaving in wisdom from other traditions whenever it helps us grow, find peace, and support each other. Members of our community come from many different backgrounds, and you do not need to consider yourself a Buddhist to attend. All are welcome. The session runs from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., with doors open from 6:30 to 9:00. Come early or stay after if you’d like to enjoy some quiet reflection or casual conversation with the community. On the first Wednesday of each month, we share a potluck meal. Bring a dish if you’d like, but the most important thing you can bring is yourself. We look forward to seeing you!

Join us at 11:30 a.m. for a meditation class led by Khenpo Karze, followed by a public talk and Q&A. The meditation focus varies from class to class. We are currently learning how to meditate on the Four Immeasurables: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. The class begins with 30 minutes of meditation instruction, followed by 5-10 minutes of meditation practice, and then continues with discussion and Q&A. Each session concludes with a brief Chenrezig practice in which we recite Om Mani Padme Hung (a prayer of compassion), and a dedication prayer that our efforts benefit all beings. This class offers a strong foundation in meditation, helping cultivate inner peace and compassion amidst busy lives. All are welcome! This program is open to anyone with an interest in Buddhism and you can come to all or any part of the program. Families are welcome. There is no fee, but donations are encouraged. Join us! Class is offered IN-PERSON in our Prayer Room and ONLINE on [Facebook Live](https://www.facebook.com/KPCBuddhistTemple/) and [YouTube Live](https://www.youtube.com/@KunzangPalyulCholing/streams). You can also watch online here: https://www.tara.org/kpc-maryland-events-calendar/ About the teacher: Khenpo Tenzin Karze graduated from Ngagyur Nyingma Institute’s intensive Buddhist graduate course in 2006, and was awarded the degree of Khenpo, equivalent to a PhD in Buddhist Philosophy, in 2011. He has received teachings and empowerments from many great Nyingma masters, and taught extensively in various Palyul temples in Nepal, India, Europe and Taiwan. This is his first time in the USA. We are delighted that Khenpo is now in residence at KPC and will be providing traditional Dharma instruction to help us deepen our practice of wisdom and compassion.

This is a **virtual event via Zoom** (Zoom link will be shared with participants who have RSVP'd the evening prior to this event). We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental. Our meeting schedule will be as follows: * **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation * **5 minutes:** Break * **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra. During the sitting meditation session, please find a comfortable spot and preferably sit in a non-roller chair (or on your meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when we meet at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).