Ninjutsu, Ninja

**✅ First class is FREE – only 10 spots available!** Learn real self-defense skills in a small-group setting. No experience needed, open to all adults. 📲 RSVP now and text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm—once spots are gone, they’re gone. ## **Free Intro Self-Defense Class – Maryland Systema** Want to learn how to protect yourself while also improving your health, focus, and confidence? Join us for a free first class at **Maryland Systema**, a unique approach to self-defense that blends both physical and mental training. *** ### **Why This Class is Different** Unlike most programs that only teach physical moves, Systema trains your body **and** your mind. You’ll explore: * **Structure** – staying balanced under pressure * **Breathing** – keeping calm and controlling fear * **Relaxation** – avoiding panic and wasted energy * **Movement** – adapting naturally to any situation You’ll also learn to read an attacker’s intentions and respond proportionately—aligned with Maryland’s self-defense laws. *** ### **What You’ll Gain** ✔ Practical skills you can use right away ✔ Better stress control and awareness ✔ Improved strength, mobility, and coordination ✔ Confidence in handling real-world situations *** ### **Class Info** 📍 **Location:** The Dance Exchange - Studio #3 - Takoma Park (free parking) 🕒 **Length:** 1.5 hours 👥 **Small Group:** Max 10 students for personalized guidance 👖 **What to Wear:** Comfortable long pants and clothes you can move in 💵 **Cost:** Free for first-time students *** ### **How to Join** RSVP here on Meetup to save your spot, then text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm. Spots are limited—once the group fills, we close registration. *** **Maryland Systema** Real-world self-defense training for adults—helping you stay ready, stay calm, and stay safe.

In a world increasingly marked by division and conflict, finding common ground has never been more crucial – and seemingly more difficult. At the same time, if we’re willing to go outside of ourselves, there are a growing number of grassroots efforts – thousands in the US alone! – all exploring various means of depolarization. In this context, might there be a role for spirituality to help guide us towards these aims, towards greater empathy and understanding for one another? More and more it seems like we can each pick and choose the bubbles we want to live in, with many of those bubbles drifting further away from others. And while there can be comfort to be found in this, are we maybe also missing out on an even better world we could be living in? What would an approach to our lives and our communities look like that speaks to our fundamental commonalities instead of our differences? How might we find and strengthen a common ground that unites while respecting our unique perspectives and contributions? What has the unique power to connect each and every one of us, to help us find that common ground, to better understand and express our essential oneness as human beings? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the role of spirituality in navigating polarized communities and bridging divides. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how spirituality can help foster a society strengthened by unity and based on understanding amongst its citizens. *“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.”* – Bahá’í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. No need to have a Capoeira background to join this class, just an open mind to try out a new way to move! Beginners welcome. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Higher Grounds – Arlington is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room. There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you you (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique. MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations. Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions * What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging? * When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists? * What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about? Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles * Who are you when nobody needs anything from you? * What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed? * How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted? Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human * What human experiences will AI never truly understand? * If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do? * What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated? Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning * What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space? * How has knowing someone who died changed how you live? * What do you believe now that would shock your younger self? Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche * What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have? * Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire? * What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept? Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose * When did you stop believing that your job would complete you? * What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors? * How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years? Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection * What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why? * When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best? * What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others? Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality * What are you running out of time to say or do? * How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite? * What will you regret not trying, even if you fail? Suggested Questions: Society & Culture * What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense? * Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing? * What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years? Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy * What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way? * When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out? * What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick** * Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.* * The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives. * The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart. * Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic. **COST:** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/) \*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

This is our weekly training session. NOVA Jujutsu is a self-defense focused system incorporating Geri (Kicking), Atemi (Striking), Uke (Blocking), Tai Sabakai (Body Movement), Tai Hodoki (Escapes), Kansetsu Waza (Joint Locks), Nage Waza (Throwing), Shime Waza (Choking), Katame Waza (Grappling), Tantojutsu (Knife), Bojutsu (Bo), Kenjutsu (Sword), and Kata (Forms). Come on down to a class and see for yourself what this group has to offer. You will get a great workout! You will have an awesome learning experience! You will meet some good people! We look forward to meeting you. See you there. TAGS: japanese, martial arts, self-defense, jujutsu, jujitsu, juijitsu, bujutsu, defense, karate, koppo, kenjutsu, bojutsu, tantojutsu

Class on Discovering, Recognizing and Celebrating Your Abundant Spirit - lead by Sue Bracey

ADMISSION & RESERVATIONS $15 ENTRY WITH DINNER RESERVATION 7-9PM (ONLY 50 SEATS AVAILABLE) -MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATION AT ON ST.ELMO RESTAURANT https://shorturl.at/iL9Q5 ————————————————— $20 earlybirds SOLDOUT ————————————————— $30 REGULAR ADMISSION AT DOOR —————————————————- Payment methods: ZELLE search 240-463-8954 (Juste Pehoua) CASHAPP [https://cash.app/$JUSTEPRESENTS](https://cash.app/$JUSTEPRESENTS?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5rhEU21hcIex_eHxAhftZYIKGiEq0jC4lC4eV6IPl89b9bD1PH4bUl1jhk5g_aem_1bUKB5HWykgllpF9tnpm-g) VENMO [https://venmo.com/u/JPEHOUA](https://venmo.com/u/JPEHOUA?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5rhEU21hcIex_eHxAhftZYIKGiEq0jC4lC4eV6IPl89b9bD1PH4bUl1jhk5g_aem_1bUKB5HWykgllpF9tnpm-g) CLOVER(6%tax applies) [https://tickets.cloveronline.com/menu/all](https://tickets.cloveronline.com/menu/all?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6rE82-tm4qKkJKLd5oB9Lhj-NUY_NP6CNKgqkmAN552LgNAriXx6ZSFtqoeQ_aem_6d0N890HkfXrKReq_KmfTQ) DC Matanga is celebrating “Black History Month” It's the "International Grown & Sexy". DRESS CODE: AfroPrint Colors DINNER 6:30-9PM: Enjoy a night out at On St. Elmo Restaurant, an upscale spot in Bethesda, MD (4915 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814). LIVE PERFORMANCES 9-11PM \- Percussions from around the world\- Joe Falero's Band from "Cuba to Puerto Rico Representing DC is “MIGHTY MOE”, Congas superstar as seen with Chuck brown band, Sugar Bear, Jill Scott , Doug E fresh juts to name a few and to celebrate SENEGAL AFROCUP CHAMPS with a live performance of Djembe & Tama (talking drum) by the very Talented MALARI Moore of Versatile Soundzz Ultimate INTL’Dance Social\*: Get ready to groove to Kizomba, Konpa, Afrobeats, Salsa, Bachata, Urbankiz, Old School, Dancehall, Hip Hop, R&B & Zouk DRESS CODE AfroPrint Colors ADMISSION & RESERVATIONS $15 ENTRY WITH DINNER RESERVATION 7-9PM (ONLY 50 SEATS AVAILABLE) -MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATION AT ON ST.ELMO RESTAURANT https://shorturl.at/iL9Q5 ————————————————— $20 earlybirds SOLDOUT ————————————————— $30 REGULAR ADMISSION AT DOOR —————————————————- PAY CASH, ZELLE, CA$HAPP OR VENMO Payement methods: ZELLE 240-463-8954 (Juste Pehoua) CASHAPP [$JUSTEPRESENTS](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcash.app%2F%24JUSTEPRESENTS%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5-LwxPW2mVdIT7-fs4bBKzMa4azFzSoYOu23mYgKpB8PaktKw9BIuG06pCJw_aem_DihK7TgYdfrPGGALTjkSmA&h=AT69VW9isGJNdD3XFRQOaLPmO_oimsi2gCSB3WpakbTRxVrECWq1mglBRQ1lY4u5V2b-CrYnU4ikJKOI7YcmTtHev5RVPlx1eYTyc1F2NKfwRSIY7SmrI8dlj3ZYcgea6dTstOVmMdSMKeQgi2c&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6A4wlNyNHAugq6om_cg2HRbgXf5SS68qshaVW_hCnDRyW4BgTEdmdqbptKEyC0I2r5aWptNhUkBba6mIf50cM9Mlxea6DWQliIZ4b2g9FmZGRYVXbJsyaDYNCcdBbDRU_v3ha8PmYfu3jCnCP4vIac0Q5iXg) VENMO [JPEHOUA](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fvenmo.com%2Fu%2FJPEHOUA%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5-LwxPW2mVdIT7-fs4bBKzMa4azFzSoYOu23mYgKpB8PaktKw9BIuG06pCJw_aem_DihK7TgYdfrPGGALTjkSmA&h=AT7ReerLT3xI5V_AB-NTImjF3HOFn1SDPMu7PkxGpbKRa_q8m-tb6jMQcEbQpHyxPIMtSYTgmuMqXROYgDW2zLRHkA5Z7KKCIUzEgAPs_5qAysamq0AxXXFKzaG2SA-cRvJkrieNKoa89_QuVd8&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6A4wlNyNHAugq6om_cg2HRbgXf5SS68qshaVW_hCnDRyW4BgTEdmdqbptKEyC0I2r5aWptNhUkBba6mIf50cM9Mlxea6DWQliIZ4b2g9FmZGRYVXbJsyaDYNCcdBbDRU_v3ha8PmYfu3jCnCP4vIac0Q5iXg) CLOVER(6%tax applies) https://shorturl.at/h7nV0

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

This class is a perfect stepping stone from our flagship My Body Don't Bend That Way classes to traditional Vinyasa and Flow classes. The pace is slow allowing for plenty of time to get a feel for the postures and the proper alignment and modifications for your body. But don't let the slow word fool you! By slowing things down, even advanced practitioners can be challenged to build greater strength. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com.** The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Let's get together at bar Garden social to grab a drink and hangout. Cost: Free Parking: Parking lot is available in front of the Garden Socail About the venue: Garden Social is a lively restaurant and bar-style hangout with a relaxed, casual social vibe offering a mix of Asian-inspired street-style dishes, beers, wine, and drinks. For more information about the venue: https://gardensocialva.com/

Ausarian Tantra Yoga is a practice that infuses the spirit and power of enlightenment through synchronizing breath, movement, meditation, and silent affirmation. Ausarian Tantra Yoga incorporates postures that reflect some of the principles of the Kemetic culture. It is a practice wherein gradual and deliberate movement allows moments for the mind, body, and spirit to connect and express oneness. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St. Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.

Whether you're new to Insight meditation or an advanced practitioner looking for like-minded people to sit with, you're welcome to join us at our Sunday morning drop-in group, sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Insight meditation cultivates our natural wisdom and compassion. Meditation practice develops concentration, which allows us to calm and steady the mind. This class includes a 30-minute lightly-guided meditation, followed by a short talk and time for questions and discussion. The size of the group usually runs somewhere between 25-40 people in-person and between 12-25 online. Chairs are provided, or you may bring a sitting cushion or bench. You may also use the blankets and bolsters offered by the yoga studio. **We offer both in-person and online attendance.** To learn more about our topics and teachers, view our videos or **get the Zoom link**, visit our [class page](https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=735&utm_source=MeetUp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=vienna-drop-in).