Philosophy

We live in an age of unprecedented progress. Advances in medicine, technology, education, and human rights have given us opportunities and freedoms that previous generations could not even imagine. Yet, despite these achievements, many of us feel increasingly anxious, restless, exhausted, and overwhelmed. How can a society that has gained so much leave so many feeling depleted and always lonhing for more? The philosopher Byung-Chul Han argues that this is not a contradiction, but a defining **feature** of our time. In his book *The Burnout Society*, he suggests that the crisis of modern life stems not from **oppression**, prohibition, or negativity, but from an **excess of positivity**—the constant pressure to achieve, optimize, perform, and become more. Han captures this paradox in one of his most famous observations: *"The complaint of the depressive individual, 'Nothing is possible,' can only occur in a society that thinks, 'Nothing is impossible.'"* In a world where limitless possibility has become an expectation, failure, exhaustion, and inadequacy are increasingly experienced as personal shortcomings rather than social problems. Today, we will explore Han's diagnosis of the modern condition, why burnout has become so widespread, and what his philosophy reveals about a possible way out. **Preparation:** You can get a good introduction of the topic by watchin one of the below videos: [Why We're All Burning Out: Byung-Chul](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlRlWuEyt8E) [Achievment Society - Byung-Chul Han | Philosophize This](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jm56nQ31kBk) **For Philosophical Minds Zurich theme events in general:** At our theme events, we begin with a brief topic introduction, followed by engaging discussions in small groups. It’s all about conversation, not just listening. Also, please note, we keep the atmosphere relaxed and informal—**there’s** **no pressure to speak in front of anyone**. **Important:** When you register for the event, please commit to it and don't be a NO SHOW. Presumably, when the ancient philosophers decided to go to an event, they kept to it.
 We look forward to seeing you. **Payment:** You can pay at the venue (Twint/Revolut/Cash). Thus, if you want to register at Meetup just click attend - no more needed ;). We look forward to seeing you.

Sessions of **individual runic readings** are available for beginners all along summer, both online (75 CHF) and offline in Zurich (100 CHF). These sessions are **NOT** esoteric or divinatory. We're approaching runes as **a symbolic system of archetypes** to examine any situation or question that is currently relevant to you. *If you feel stuck in a situation and cannot see a way forward, are facing a difficult decision, navigating a period of uncertainty, or trying to understand a recurring pattern in your life, a runic reading may offer a different perspective.* **You will receive:** • a clearer and systemic understanding of what is actually happening; • insight into hidden influences affecting the situation; • a better understanding of why certain difficulties keep repeating; • greater clarity around available options and their likely consequences; • practical ideas for what to do next. For registration and payment details, send me a direct message or fill in this form [The Alchemist Lab - Contact](https://alchemistlab.ch/Contact)

**Meditationsreihe:** **Vom Konflikt zur Harmonie - Umgang mit schwierigen Menschen** Mittwochs, 10. Juni - 8. Juli, 2026, 18:30-20:00Uhr, KMC Schweiz in ZH- Altstetten mit Gen Kelsang Devi (in Englisch mit deutscher Übersetzung), 20CHF https://www.kadampa.ch/vortrag-am-mittwoch/ Schwierige Menschen begegnen uns überall – im Büro, in der Familie, im Alltag. Manchmal scheinen sie unseren Frieden zu rauben und unsere Geduld auf die Probe zu stellen. Doch was, wenn das Problem nicht draussen liegt, sondern in unserem eigenen Geist? In dieser 5-wöchigen Meditationsreihe laden wir dich ein, einen transformativen Blick nach innen zu werfen. Schritt für Schritt erkunden wir, wie wir schwierige Beziehungen mit buddhistischer Weisheit und Meditation neu betrachten können – nicht um schwieriges Verhalten zu akzeptieren, sondern um unseren eigenen Geist zu befreien. **Themenliste** 10\. Juni 2026 \| Cool bleiben – Die Stärke der Gelassenheit 17\. Juni 2026 \| Andere akzeptieren 24\. Juni 2026 \| Schmerzhafte Gefühle verstehen und annehmen 1\. Juli 2026 \| Harmonie schaffen 8\. Juli 2026 \| Konflikte meistern

As it is sometimes difficult in Switzerland to practice high german, in 2010 we decided to organize a conversation group that is free to everyone who wants to practice german and socialize. WhatsApp group for easier contact: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KmMkpiQxs291vTPv2RBNm4

Step out of the busy, non-stop hectic world. Yoga is a resting place. Yoga provides a pause from the demands of life. Do you want to sleep better, quiet the mind, be in relation with your body, to slow down? In this class you will experience care, community and committment. You will discover what is fundamentally important.

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Discover the magic of Aerial Yoga - a practice that not only enhances flexibility and builds strength but also offers a unique way to relieve stress on the spine and alleviate lower back pain. The hammock gently supports your body, allowing for deeper stretches and decompression of the spine, making it an ideal practice for anyone seeking both physical and mental relief. **Why Join?** **\* Relieve Spinal Stress**: The anti-gravity nature of Aerial Yoga helps to decompress the spine, reducing tension and promoting spinal health. **\* Alleviate Lower Back Pain**: Experience gentle inversions that stretch and strengthen your back, providing much-needed relief from lower back discomfort. **\* Accessible to All Levels**: Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, Aerial Yoga is adaptable and welcoming for everyone! **\* Boost Flexibility & Strength**: The hammock supports your body, enabling deeper stretches and enhanced core stability. **\* Stress Relief & Relaxation**: Unwind in a tranquil environment, letting go of the day’s stress as you float through the air. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and embark on a journey to a healthier, happier you! ✨ Class in English // Open-level (beginners are all welcome :)) ✨ Props provided or bring your own ✨ Location: Zürich Oerlikon, Wattstrasse 3, 8050 Zürich ✨ Please contact me if you like to join / Registration via [Yoga Nest Eversports page](https://www.eversports.ch/s/yoga-nest-1) See you in the hammock :)

Workshop-Details Wo: Zürich Hauptbahnhof Meeting Point (Big Clock) Wann: 03.07.2026 Zeit: 20:30 - 23:15 Uhr Was du lernen wirst – Fotografieren bei wenig Licht – Echte und ungestellte Augenblicke des Nachtlebens festhalten – Die Schönheit der Schwarzweiss-Strassenfotografie entdecken (natürlich kannst du auch in Farbe fotografieren!) Wir beginnen den Abend mit einem Drink in einem nahegelegenen Café — natürlich auf meine Einladung! Dies ist die perfekte Gelegenheit, sich kennenzulernen, Erwartungen auszutauschen und individuelle Wünsche für den Workshop zu besprechen. Deine Teilnahme kostet 150 CHF. Bitte melde dich direkt über meine Website an und sichere dir deinen Platz: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops Erst nach Zahlungseingang ist dein Platz gesichert! Workshop Details Where: Zurich Hauptbahnhof Meeting Point When: 03.07.2026 Time: 8:30 — 11:15 PM What you’ll Learn – Shooting in low light – Capturing candid nightlife moments with confidence – Exploring the beauty of black and white street photography (of course, you can shoot in color too!) We’ll kick off the evening with a quick drink at a nearby café — my treat! This is a great chance to get to know each other, share expectations and discuss any specific wishes you might have for the workshop. Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich

Freitags, 10:00–10:40 Uhr, 5. Juni - 3. Juli, Kadampa Meditationszentrum Schweiz, Mirabellenstrasse 1, 8048 Zürich-Altstetten, 7.50CHF, https://www.kadampa.ch/freitag-morgen-meditation/ Gönn dir eine 40-minütige Atemmeditation mit einfühlsamen Erklärungen, die dir hilft, zur Ruhe zu kommen und neue Energie zu tanken. Spüre, wie dein Geist klarer wird, sich innere Anspannung löst und du dich leichter fühlst. Diese Meditation ist die perfekte Gelegenheit, dich bewusst mit dir selbst zu verbinden und den Übergang ins Wochenende achtsam zu gestalten. Die geführten Meditationen sind Drop-In-Kurse – eine Anmeldung ist nicht erforderlich. Komm einfach vorbei, geniesse die wohltuende Atmosphäre und starte deinen Freitagmorgen voller Gelassenheit.

More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich In this workshop, we’ll explore the urban heart of Lucerne — starting at the train station and moving along the lakeside toward the edge of the Altstadt. From modern architecture to historic streets and lively public spaces, we’ll capture contrast, character, and atmosphere in one of Switzerland’s most photogenic cities. Workshop-Details Wo: Luzern Bahnhof Zeit: 20:30 – 23:15 Uhr Was du lernen wirst * Lerne, wie du natürliches Licht und Schatten meisterhaft einsetzt, um ausdrucksstarke Schwarzweiss-Bilder zu gestalten. * Echte und ungestellte Momente auf der Strasse mit Selbstvertrauen festhalten * ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), eine kreative Technik, die absichtliche Kamerabewegungen mit einer langen Verschlusszeit kombiniert, um abstrakte, malerische Bilder zu schaffen * Die Schönheit der Schwarzweiss-Strassenfotografie entdecken Deine Teilnahme kostet 150 CHF. Bitte melde dich direkt über meine Website an und sichere dir deinen Platz: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops Workshop Details Where: Luzern Bahnhof Time: 8:30 — 11:15 PM What you’ll Learn * Master how to use natural light and shadow to create striking black and white images * Capture candid street moments with confidence * Embrace ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), a creative technique that combines deliberate camera movement with a slow shutter speed to create abstract, painterly images * Discover the timeless beauty of black and white street photography Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich

Unter professioneller Anleitung und individueller Betreuung wird in kleinen Gruppen (ausser während der Schulferien) gearbeitet. Ein Einstieg sowie ein Probeunterricht sind jederzeit möglich. Im Kurs helfe ich dir, deine kreativen Ideen zu verwirklichen und deine künstlerisch-gestalterischen Fähigkeiten weiterzuentwickeln. Ob nach Fantasie, nach einer Bildvorlage oder direkt aus der Realität: Du setzt deine eigenen Motive um und lernst dabei den souveränen Umgang mit verschiedenen Mal- und Zeichentechniken. Egal auf welchem Level du startest – hier bist du richtig: **Anfänger** werden sorgfältig in die Grundlagen eingeführt. **Fortgeschrittene** können ihre Kenntnisse und Erfahrungen vertiefen und erweitern. **Experten** erlernen die Geheimnisse alter Meister und perfektionieren das realistische Zeichnen und Malen. **Auskunft und Anmeldung:** marianas@gmx.ch \* 078 628 78 24 \* [www.marianas.ch](http://www.marianas.ch) **Freitags** und **samstags in Illnau:** von 9:30 bis 12:30 Uhr und von 13:00 bis 12:30 Uhr | **Kurskosten** (inkl. Materialkosten)**:** 4 x 180 Min. = 333Fr. | | -------------------------------------------------------- | |

Coders Monthly is a regular gathering of programmers in Zurich interested in honing their craft. It takes place in Zuerich at Cafe Bar Pluesch (https://cafe-pluesch.ch) on the first Thursday of every month. For the members list, some pics and more, see the Coders Only (https://codersonly.org/events/coders-monthly) site. Hope to see you there! PS: Please join our Discord https://discord.gg/jWUZsKQvrz for any last minute announcements.

Are you experiencing one or some of the following? 🌿Feeling sad and low on energy 🌿Feeling overwhelmed, anxious and stressed 🌿Difficulties sleeping Try somatic exercises to get out of your head and regulate your emotions! This is not a fitness class but a mind-body practice led by a qualified somatic therapist. Bioenergetic exercises were invented in the 1950s by a psychiatrist and therapist, Alexander Lowen, who was influenced by classical psychoanalysis but felt something was missing - the body. It reacts to stress and trauma by getting tense, even painful. We feel stiff and disconnected from our feelings, even numb. Somatic exercises are simple and designed to help you understand and regulate your feelings. As a result, you can manage stress, anxiety, or depressive mood better. Join me for the next workshop of bioenergetic exercises in Zurich! We meet in a cozy studio near Triemli station. Space is limited to 7 participants. You get 1 hour of theory, plus 2 hours of gentle exercises and group discussion. Think of it as building your own mental resilience workshop to use in moments of sadness, overwhelm, or stress. Note: \- If you have a history of psychotic episodes or difficulties managing anger\, then the workshop is not appropriate for you; individual therapy is better\. \- If you take antipsychotic medication\, it's also contraindicated\. \- If you have epilepsy\, it's also not the best format for you\. \- If you are pregnant\, it's better to wait a few months after the baby comes\. \- If you are very sensitive to loud noises\, please note that people sometimes scream during these workshops to express their emotions\. \- Depression or many other mental health concerns are not contraindications\, but for the workshop setting\, you should feel stable \(with medication and/or therapy\)\. These exercises may be a good addition to talk\-only therapy\, but best to consult with your therapist or psychiatrist first\. \- If in doubt\, message me about your particular situation\. *Note about the ticket: The visible price is 62 CHF, and the final checkout price will be around 65 CHF. I have reduced the visible price, as this is the only way for me to cover the reservation fees.* The number of participants may not reflect the actual number of bookings, as the event is announced on multiple websites. First-come, first-served. Tickets are non-refundable. If you get sick and provide a doctor's attest, I can rebook you for one of the upcoming, similar workshops.

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

This meeting will be a discussion about living your life with vision loss. For some, the incremental or sudden loss of vision is traumatic and hopeless. Our group assures those with vision loss that adjustment is possible and necessary. Through their lived experience, our participants support and encourage all. You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

Be prepared for an entirely different type of sci-fi movie! Unofficially, the second movie in director Lars von Trier's "Depression Trilogy," 2011 Melancholia depicts the events that occur before a rogue planet is about to collide with the earth. Considered by many to be a masterpiece, the film was included in BFI's 2022 Sight and Sound Poll of the greatest movies of all time. It is available at the library as well as on Kanopy.

This is not an event, but an announcement that we are accepting new members. If you'd like to pursue joining our group, please read the "about us" section and then write us at columbusmensgroup@gmail.com with a few paragraphs about yourself, what you'd like to experience in the group, and the contribution that you'd like to make. Thank you!

**Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from a duo with over 16 years of experience combined. During this demonstration event, you can expect to learn how to direct and guide your creative vision through lighting and communication to your model. We guarantee you will leave this event feeling more confident to try new lighting set ups to match up with your anticipated outcome. Finding the right way to express your vision is key to getting your model to pose accordingly, so we got you there too! To take this even further, think about signing up for a tutorial spot following the demonstration.** ***Note: this is a demonstration event only, you will not shoot your own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.*** **Following the demonstration will be a tutorial/coaching event - sign up separately if you are interested at** https://calendar.app.google/ZcHb4CQB2rrV3U7j9 **Save and book both for $199 (discounted from $215; the discount will be applied on the Tutorial invoice).**

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!