Personal Essay

Take a pause from your busy day and join us for a 20-minute guided meditation to breathe your stress away, decompress your body and mind, centre yourself and restore your wellbeing. Leave feeling refreshed, recharged and refocused, ready to tackle the rest of your day. No experience is necessary – this free in-person meditation is open to everyone. **This is a free in-person meditation.** **If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please click** [here.](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.

Multiple tables booked for some casual chess and a few drinks. We do not do ratings or clocks. So no matter your ability, just turn up and you will be welcomed with a game! We have Six plus chessboards, but feel free to bring your own.

Description: Join us for an engaging and interactive lecture that explores the art of in-person communication and its profound impact on our personal and professional lives. In this dynamic session, we will delve into the essential skills, strategies, and insights necessary to navigate face-to-face interactions with confidence and effectiveness. In an increasingly digital age, the ability to connect with others in person remains a cornerstone of successful relationships, collaborations, and personal growth. This lecture aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the key elements that contribute to effective in-person communication. During this enlightening session, we will cover the following topics: 1. Active Listening: Listening is a fundamental aspect of communication, yet it is often overlooked. We will explore the art of active listening, which involves attentive focus, empathy, and understanding. Participants will learn practical techniques to enhance their listening skills and foster deeper connections. 2. Non-Verbal Communication: Body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a crucial role in conveying messages and establishing rapport. We will examine the nuances of non-verbal communication and offer insights into how to utilize it effectively to enhance understanding and build trust. 3. Verbal Communication: From articulating ideas clearly to adapting communication styles to suit different audiences, we will explore the components of effective verbal communication. Participants will gain practical tips on expressing themselves confidently, persuasively, and with clarity. 4. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing emotions is paramount in establishing meaningful connections. We will delve into the concept of emotional intelligence, equipping participants with strategies to recognize and regulate their own emotions while empathizing with others. 5. Conflict Resolution: Conflicts are an inevitable part of human interactions. We will discuss techniques for navigating conflicts in a constructive and respectful manner, fostering cooperation, and finding mutually beneficial solutions. 6. Building Rapport and Connection: Creating a genuine connection is essential for fostering trust and collaboration. We will explore strategies for building rapport, including building common ground, demonstrating empathy, and creating a positive and supportive atmosphere. 7. Overcoming Communication Barriers: Language barriers, cultural differences, and diverse perspectives can pose challenges in communication. We will provide insights into overcoming these barriers, fostering inclusivity, and promoting effective cross-cultural communication. Through interactive exercises, role-playing, and real-life examples, participants will have the opportunity to practice and refine their in-person communication skills. They will leave the lecture with increased self-awareness, enhanced interpersonal skills, and the confidence to engage in meaningful, impactful conversations. Note: This lecture is open to individuals from all walks of life, including professionals, students, and anyone interested in improving their in-person communication skills. No prior experience or expertise is required. Join us for an engaging session that will transform your ability to connect, collaborate, and thrive in face-to-face interactions.

Hi folks! If you're in London and want more than just a pint, join the most spirited global meetup in town! Our attendees, mostly 20–30-somethings, meet every Thursday at 7:30 PM. [[Click this whatsapp group link to join]](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCK576y0xM0E8snUNZ4QJZ) Whether you're here for a semester, a startup, or a selfie at Big Ben, this is where friendships begin. It’s a place where locals and internationals come together to talk, laugh, and share the world through conversation. see u soon 😀

Description: Join us for an enlightening lecture that delves into the intricate web of the past and its potential to cast a long shadow over our present lives. In this thought-provoking session, we will explore the profound ways in which the past can negatively impact our well-being, choices, and personal growth. Throughout history, human lives have been shaped by a multitude of experiences, both positive and negative. These experiences accumulate, leaving imprints on our memories and shaping our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. While the past holds valuable lessons and cherished memories, it can also harbor unresolved conflicts, traumas, and limitations that subtly influence our present reality. During this lecture, we will navigate the labyrinth of psychological and emotional baggage that may accumulate over time, inhibiting our personal development and impeding our ability to lead fulfilling lives. By examining the effects of the past on various aspects of our existence, we will gain a deeper understanding of how it can manifest in detrimental ways. Through engaging discussions, case studies, and real-life examples, we will explore the following topics: 1. The Power of Unresolved Trauma: We will delve into the profound impact of unresolved traumatic experiences and how they can subtly shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By shedding light on the intricate mechanisms behind these effects, we can begin to dismantle their hold on our lives. 2. Inherited Baggage: Examining the intergenerational transmission of pain, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, we will explore how our ancestors' experiences can unconsciously influence our lives. By recognizing and addressing this inherited baggage, we can break free from destructive cycles and chart our own path. 3. Limiting Beliefs and Self-Sabotage: Uncovering the deeply ingrained beliefs and narratives that stem from past experiences, we will explore how they can become self-fulfilling prophecies, stifling our potential and sabotaging our aspirations. By challenging these beliefs, we can reclaim our personal power and reshape our narratives. 4. Breaking Free: Strategies for Healing and Transformation: This segment will offer practical tools and techniques for healing past wounds, releasing emotional burdens, and cultivating resilience. We will explore approaches such as therapy, mindfulness, self-reflection, and forgiveness to facilitate the process of letting go and embracing personal growth. By the end of this lecture, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the profound influence the past can exert on their lives and how to break free from its negative impact. Armed with newfound knowledge and practical insights, they will be empowered to embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery, healing, and the creation of a brighter future. Note: This lecture is open to all individuals seeking personal growth and a deeper understanding of the psychological and emotional factors that shape their lives. No prior knowledge or experience is required, only an open mind and a willingness to explore the depths of the past.

Let's start the year as we mean to go on, with a nice new red that's no walk in the park! A gateway to the South Down National Park. With its hidden gems and quintessentially English scenery, it has a rich tapestry of wildlife, landscapes and tranquillity. Stretching across around 1,600km squared of England, from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east. 🔴 **HIKE:** 📏 24km (15 miles) 🏔️ Elev. Gain: 737m 💓 Av. Pace: 5.2km/h 🚥 [View Walking/Hiking Levels Here](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPRjEOPjW8B/) ✊ *Note: Active Muslims is equally about focusing on the actual activity, in this case, it is a paced walk/hike (and not a stroll), therefore it is advised to approach and attend these events with that mindset, intention and [purpose](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBhPWpdIMKq/?igsh=MWVjdnZrdGZwd3dmYw%3D%3D).* 📍 **Waterloo: Opposite Platform 3** 🔄 Start/End: **Petersfield Station** **/** [Waterloo Station] ⌚Meet from 8:08am, the train departs at **8:30am** *[arrives 9:34am at* Petersfield *\| Return train estimate: 16:24\]* 🎟️ Train Tickets: You are welcome to purchase your own ticket. **It is best to purchase with a Network Rail Card or group discount.** *Purchasing on the day is recommended.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🎟️ **If you would like me to help purchase your group ticket** (3+ must travel together). **On the condition you aim to arrive before the platform is announced.** 💳 [**PayPal Here (£25.75)**](https://paypal.me/mubasher001/25.75) Confirm via below once you've made the payment with your **Meetup Name:** 📱 [My WhatsApp](https://wa.me/+447799438148). ⌛Deadline: Wednesday: 9:01pm *ℹ️ I cannot issue refunds once I've purchased your ticket.* ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ 🚻 Waterloo / Onboard train / Petersfield / possible at cafe 🧎 Prayer: If you are praying, please have/keep wudu (make it within other breaks) and be prepared to join at short notice. 🎒 What to bring: appropriate clothing/boots, water bottle [1.5/2L], packed lunch & snacks to keep you going! 👕 Advisable to have layers. 🥾 Hiking boots recommended. 🧦 Hiking socks/double socks advised (reduces chance of blisters) 🔦 Headlight (winter hikes) 🗂️ "No shows" / late removers for previous events may be moved to the waitlist to prioritise reliable attendees / new joiners - ***when there is a waiting list, priority is given by attendance records / new joiners.*** 📊 [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)] ⛑️ *Disclaimer: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times.* 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims/)** *(Follow for latest events updates)* 🚦 **[Walk/Hike Levels:](https://www.instagram.com/share/reel/BB1WYW-S3R)** 🟢 Easy 🟡 Average 🟠 Moderate 🔴 Challenging ⚫ Very Challenging

Individualism is a philosophy that prioritizes the worth, goals, and autonomy of the individual over the interests of society, the state, or collective groups. How does individualism balance personal freedom with social connections and responsibility? Can extreme individualism lead to social fragmentation or weakened community bonds, and if so, how can this be addressed? Does self-reliance prevent people from seeking help when lonely? \*Please do your own research and share resources related to this topic in the comment section\* #======# Donation! Thank you for being a member. I have made a donation page for those who want to help with the costs. [https://examinedlife.uk/donation/](https://examinedlife.uk/donation/) #======# Group chat We have a telegram group chat and here is a link for the front door: [https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk](https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk) #======# The Examined Life, "Let's Discuss..." session is an open discussion. The format of this event will be: 13:15 - Free flow group discussion about the topic. 14:00 ish - We will be splitting into smaller groups for more engaging discussion about what interests each of you. 16:00 - End of the official meetup. Most often attendees stay and continue discussing up to around 18:00. #======# Please RSVP if you can commit to attending and change your RSVP if something comes up. Inaccurate RSVPs can keep potential attendees on the waiting list and makes it difficult to plan for room sizes and bookings. Art work: A Winter Scene with Skaters near a Castle 1608 by Hendrick Avercamp

**Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned master, join Our Chess Enthusiast Group for Social Fun and Friendly Matches** **This is the perfect opportunity to socialise, make new friends, and engage in the intellectually stimulating and entertaining world of chess.** **Our chess group is a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels. We believe that chess is a game that transcends age and gender, uniting people in the pursuit of strategic brilliance and camaraderie. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the ropes or a grandmaster seeking challenging opponents, our group is the ideal place for you.** **When and Where We Meet** **We gather every Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at a convenient and accessible location:** **Venue: 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW** **Our chosen venue is not only a clean and safe space but also secure, ensuring that your chess sessions are enjoyable and worry-free.** **Additionally, there is an indoor cafe on-site, so you can relax with a refreshing beverage and delicious snacks between matches.** **What to Expect** **When you join our chess enthusiast group, you can look forward to a variety of chess-related activities:** 1. **Engage in chess matches with players of varying skill levels, providing a perfect opportunity to improve your game or showcase your expertise.** 2. **Connect with fellow chess enthusiasts who share your passion, fostering new friendships and a sense of community.** 3. **If you're a beginner, our more experienced members are always willing to offer guidance and tips to help you grow as a chess player.** 4. **We occasionally organise chess tournaments and special events, allowing you to challenge yourself and compete for prizes.** **Reserve Your Space** **Due to space limitations, we kindly request that you reserve your spot before attending our chess gatherings. This ensures that we can accommodate everyone and maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all participants. To reserve your space or inquire about the group, please reach out to us via email magdyelalfy@gmail.com** **While we do provide chess sets at our venue, we encourage members to bring their own if they have one. Personalising your chess experience with your preferred set can add a unique touch to your games.** **Join us at 245 Hammersmith Road, London, W6 8PW, and be a part of a vibrant and engaging chess community. Whether you're in it for the love of the game, the social interactions, or both, our chess enthusiast group offers a fantastic platform to indulge your passion for chess and make new friends along the way. We look forward to welcoming you into our fold and sharing the joy of chess with you.** **For reservations, Click attend on the meetup App.** **Come and make your next move with us – both on the chessboard and in your social circle!**

A most delightful and beautiful walk of around 6.5/7 miles following the Regents Canal into Victoria Park and then the Hertford Canal to the various waterways of the Olympic Park in Stratford. The walk will start at 10am. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. The walk shall finish in Stratford by the Olympic Park where there is a myriad of places to have lunch. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash or by bank transfer in advance. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

**🥋 Feel Safer, Get Stronger, Train Smarter — in Battersea Park** Join our friendly outdoor Kung Fu sessions in beautiful Battersea Park — build real self-defence skills, fitness, and calm in a relaxed, ego-free environment. No experience needed. Stay for a friendly social afterwards at the Pear Tree Café just a short walk away! \*\*\* **🧠 About the Classes** Whether you're here to improve fitness, learn practical self-defence, or simply try something new, our classes are open to all levels (ages 16+). You’ll learn how to: * Handle punches and attacks effectively * Use footwork and movement to avoid strikes * Improve flexibility, mobility, and balance * Condition your body to absorb impacts safely * Practice breathing and meditation for calm and resilience Our sessions are beginner-friendly, taught at a safe pace, and designed to help you build real martial skill, one step at a time. \*\*\* **📍 When & Where** 🗓 Saturdays 2:30–4:30pm 🗓 Wednesdays 6:30–8:30pm 📌 **Battersea Park**, by the central Bandstand (We train under cover if it rains) \*\*\* **💰 Pricing** **🎟 First class (taster): £15** Try it out before committing — no pressure. **🉐 New joiner offer (after your first class):** * 4-class block: £48 (£12 per class) * 8-class block: £88 (£11 per class) (Use within 2 or 4 months respectively) **📅 Ongoing training (standard pricing after your first block):** * 5-class block: £60 (valid 2 months) * 10-class block: £100 (valid 4 months) Payments are made in advance. Blocks are non-refundable but give you flexibility if you can’t attend every week. **📩 Book your spot:** ✉️ [joe.cheung75@gmail.com](http://joe.cheung75@gmail.com) 📱 WhatsApp/text: 07914 411979 \*\*\* **🎒 What to Bring** * Loose, comfortable clothing. * Water. * Just bring enthusiasm — we’ll handle the rest. \*\*\* **💬 What Students Say** *"* *Joe makes everybody feel welcome, and more importantly, he is a great teacher. Rather than a one size fits all approach, he tailors the class to your strengths and weaknesses and he is extremely patient."* – Natalie, beginner *“A true gem for anyone searching for a holistic system to train strength and awareness.”* – Julius, beginner *“I strongly recommend his services for 16 year olds and over. If you are passionate about martial arts then this class will open your mind to many classical & practical Kung Fu styles.”* – George, White Sash \*\*\* **🔔 Important Info** * Please RSVP or message by **9am on the day** of class so I can plan numbers. * Let me know if you have any injuries or health conditions beforehand. * Classes are non-refundable. Regular training builds muscle memory and confidence over time. \*\*\* **👤 About Me** I’m Joe Cheung, a black sash instructor in Baji Zhandao Kung Fu. My martial arts background includes: * 12+ years Baji Zhandao Kung Fu (2nd Black Sash) * 10+ years Bujinkan Ninjitsu (2nd Dan Black Belt) * 2 years Urban Krav Maga I also offer private one-to-one lessons — just ask for details. \*\*\* **🧭 What Is Baji Zhandao?** Baji Zhandao means *“Battlefield Style”*. It blends six powerful Chinese martial systems into one adaptable method: * Baji Quan * Yang Tai Chi Quan * Pigua Zhang * Tongbei Quan * Bagua Zhang * Xingyi Quan This system was developed by Grandmaster Chen Fu Sheng — a former Chinese Special Forces instructor with 50+ years of real-world martial experience. 🔗 More info: [bajizhandao.co.uk](https://bajizhandao.co.uk) \*\*\* **✅ Ready to Begin?** Whether you want to feel safer, get fitter, or just challenge yourself — you’ll be welcome in the group. Train in the park, build skill for life, and meet great people along the way. **Let’s get started!**

Lets go with the flow and do this amazingly beautiful and tranquil 12 mile MEDIUM PACED walk along the River Lea and River Stort ! Please arrive by 9am at Liverpool Street station by Platform 10 to buy group train tickets to Hertford East. Train ticket : return to Hertford East. Train to take 9.24am am arriving at Cheshunt at 9.44am. Or you may decide to drive. Please bring packed lunch or maybe eat in the pub, water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and trainers/walking shoes. The walk shall commence by 10am. There is a possibility of finishing the walk after 8 miles at St Margaret's and then taking the train back to London. Meetup fee £8 payable in cash or £6 non refundable in advance by Friday by bank transfer, details available upon request. No PayPal. Please only post photos of others with their consent. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. We shall have a drink at the end of the walk in Hertford and take the 5.09pm train back to London from Hertford East. My no is 07714250849.

Due to popular demand, we're now meeting upstairs in the Thirsty Bear! If you're looking for a laid back Saturday playing some board games and talking nerd stuff in a pub with some awesome people, this is the meetup for you! Whether you're new to London or just want to get some long-lost in-person socialisation, we're a friendly community and welcome you all. A few things to note: * Feel free to bring board games you think are fun * Buy lots of food and drink from the pub * Please RSVP, to let us and other people know you're coming, and update your RSVP if you aren't able to come any more.

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).

This is a free, in-person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships. Burdened by a stressful relationship? Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse. Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well. Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship. Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action? Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life: human relationships! Break free from self imposed limitations Here we will discuss: • How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes. • Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you? • Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it? • Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love? • Fights & arguments - what's really behind them? • What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others? • How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change? • Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them? • How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about? • How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career? Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general. Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person. Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life. We look forward to having you join us! This class is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

This is an in-person meeting. At this meeting you will get answers to depression and anxiety. Find out the source of them and how to get rid of them. Did you know that unwanted emotions like anxiety, depression, unhappiness, loneliness, hopelessness, anger, fear, or feelings of irritation don’t just fall on you for no reason. They are not random occurrences that simply happen to people's minds. They are definitely not due to a chemical imbalance in your brain from some nebulous chemical reaction "by chance". Your negative emotions are the symptoms of the painful experiences that you have which are not healed, and which are still affecting you. The effects of these painful experiences are exacerbated by the pressures or difficulties of the other problems in your life. Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio and Church of Scientology of Central Ohio.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).