Recovering from Religion

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.

IS IT POSSIBLE: TO BECOME MOTIVATED ABOUT LIFE AGAIN; TO REBUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE IN YOURSELF AND GET RID OF NEGATIVE THINKING? Attend this meeting and see how you could possibly get some new knowledge to improve your life! A personal questionnaire and private discussion to help locate areas of life that you maybe could improve. A personalized programme for how you could do that! Come and meet us and others that may be like minded. Improve Your Life!!

We hold two pub evenings a month on the first and third Wednesdays, with all the other Wednesdays being virtual pub evenings. We also normally have a monthly quiz on the last Wednesday of the month, during the virtual pub evening, at about 9pm, where a different member of our group prepares the questions to be used each month. This means that tonight is a standard virtual pub evening. Contact Roland in advance, preferably by e-mail, so that he can send you a link to click on at the start of the meeting. Please note the different arrangements for the first and third Wednesdays of the month.

*FREE TO ALL SHARK STUDENTS* Team Shark has a fully trained and qualified Kinesiology Taping Specialist, but due to demand and timings please use this Shark event to book a consultation. You must message the Head Coach and then RSVP here to confirm your booking! Half hour Drop-In clinic for any Shark members with a new or existing ache, soreness or minor injury who would like to discuss if Kinesiology Taping can assist with their recovery Be mindful of the following: * K-Taping cannot be used on cuts, grazes or open wounds * K-Taping adheres only on clean, non-sweaty, hairless body parts. You'll need to ensure the area is shaved & hairless on the day * Only 2 consultations slots available each Thursday, so please book in advance to avoid disappointment. Please do not forget to text the Head Coach to confirm your booking! K-Taping is free only to paid memberships to support Team Shark! Full length PRIVATE consultations are £25 per session to non-members For more details and information read the link below: https://www.oaidocs.com/2018/09/14/benefits-of-kinesiology-tape/

Dive into a meaningful **in-person discussion** at the Literature & Theology Reading Group's next meetup as we explore 'The Fire Next Time' by James Baldwin. The great novelist, essayist and activist here takes on the history of race in America. **He addresses the complex role which Christianity played in the development of his consciousness and in the development of African-American identity**, echoing the fictionalised account of his youth described in *Go Tell it on the Mountain*. **Each session is accompanied by a lecture** from Dr Aidan Cottrell-Boyce, exploring its spiritual and theological significance. Please make sure you have **[sign up for this session](https://londonjesuitcentre.churchsuite.com/events/wnwaxnfa)** on our online portal. If you cannot attend in person, you can also [join us online](https://londonjesuitcentre.churchsuite.com/events/wopqricd) on 25th February. All are welcome to be a part of this vibrant community dedicated to exploring the intersection of faith and literature!

Join us for an interactive workshop in the heart of London where we will dive deep into the topic of anxiety and self-empowerment. This event is perfect for those looking to improve their mental health and build confidence in social situations. Through a series of exercises and discussions, we will explore techniques for managing stress and overcoming personal obstacles. Our experienced life coaches will be on hand to provide guidance and support as we embark on a journey towards a more confident and empowered self. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and take the first step towards a life transformation.

Blessings require no formal dogma or thought; they are spiritual well wishes and take many forms. In this Lucky Dip session, we will explore different ways we can make appropriate blessings whether atheist, nature oriented, traditional theology or other ideas of ultimate reality. Led by Julio and Chandni. Suggested donation: £5 Don't let this be a barrier - contact Kateboo if you can't afford to contribute in this way. Heartspaces at Essex Hall is a vibrant and welcoming Unitarian community hub in central London, open to spiritual seekers, existing Unitarians and curious newcomers. The Heartspaces programme is a series of weekly spiritual gatherings led by Unitarian ministers and volunteers across London. From the monthly Wednesday lunchtime session to the events every Thursday evening, Heartspaces encourages people to gather, share and discover together. Whether you’re a seasoned Unitarian, a spiritual searcher or simply curious, find your space to grow.

Join the Eco Around Community for a litter pick walk. The February litter pick will start from Clapham Common station and will be hosted by Seán (+44 7865 091666). When: Sunday, 15th February, from 11:00 to 1:00 pm. Feel free to stay longer for a coffee or some bites. How to dress and what to bring: Appropriate footwear, no open-toed shoes, and we recommend some waterproofs (just in case). Bring some gloves (no single-use ones, though!), a black bin bag (we collect all in one bag as the litter will be too dirty to be recycled, unfortunately), a litter picking stick if you have one at hand (Seán will bring a few), and a refillable water bottle in case you get thirsty. Hand Sanitiser is also useful. Updates: Unless it's torrential rain, we will stick to our plans. Please check the event for updates.

Join startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals in business, finance and tech for an **evening of business networking in the elegant Sycamore Bar at the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel, Covent Garden.** **💼 Note re Contactless Cards** 
Free RSVP gives entry only - the contactless business card is not included.
To receive a contactless networking card, please book a paid ticket when available. **This informal yet refined business mixer** is the perfect opportunity to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and build meaningful business connections that go beyond LinkedIn. **👔 Dress Code**
 As this is a 5-star hotel, smart or business attire is required. Please avoid casual wear, hoodies, or sportswear. **What to Expect** ✅ Relaxed, premium networking environment - no stage or speeches, just natural conversations with inspiring professionals.
 ✅ Mix of industries - startups, tech, finance and business. ✅ Guest list of max 40 attendees to encourage genuine connections as opposed to impersonal crowded conferences.
 **Why Attend** • Expand your network with startup founders, tech entrepreneurs, business owners and senior professionals in business, finance and tech from London and beyond.
 • Share insights and opportunities in tech, business growth, and digital innovation.
 • Experience luxury yet relaxed networking in one of Covent Garden’s most sophisticated venues. **Venue** Sycamore Bar, Middle Eight Hotel
A refined, design-led bar inside the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel.
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, within walking distance of Holborn, Covent Garden, and Tottenham Court Road stations. **Important Info** • Ages: 18+ (ID required for bar purchases)
 • Photography Notice: The event may be filmed or photographed for promotional use by [CineEye (audiovisual production company in London)
](www.cineeye.co.uk) • Dress Code: Smart/business attire only (see above). • Contactless Cards: Free RSVP does not include contactless business card (see above). **Join Us** Step into an evening where business meets elegance - designed for founders, innovators, and professionals who value meaningful business conversations. **Limited to 40 spots - reserve yours today!**

**Honouring the earth** Part 2 of the book club 'Cherishing the Earth' led by Alison Bybee and David Carter. Join us for insightful discussions over tea and cake, as we explore a book that celebrates and reflects on our planet, searching for a spiritual response to the ecological crisis that confronts us all. We will meet on the 3rd Sunday of every month for four months. The book, *Cherishing the Earth – Nourishing the Spirit*, edited by Maria Curtis, presents a range of Unitarian responses to the global environmental crisis. Contributors include ministers, lay people, and children, writing from diverse theological and ethical perspectives, exploring what it might mean to live in right relationship with the Earth. Their insights range from the prophetic and political to the practical and intensely personal, but all share a sense of gratitude for the sacred gift of life. Maria Curtis asks what changes we need to make in ourselves and in our society if we are to work towards healing the Earth and restoring balance to the global ecosystem: *“We need to re-imagine what a healthy relationship between humanity and the natural world might look like, one conducive to the flourishing of all beings onEarth.”* Rev. Dr Maria Curtis is a Unitarian minister with a background in education and psychology. Our four book club sessions: **18th January: Prophetic Voices** **15th February: Honouring the Earth** **15th March: Changing Hearts and Minds** **19th April: Active Hope and Young Voices** Each session will be standalone so that you can attend all, several or just one. We encourage participants to buy or borrow the book and to have read the sections if possible beforehand. **Buy the book: email *[alonghurst@unitarian.org.uk](mailto:alonghurst@unitarian.org.uk)* (£12 plus £3.50 P&P) Subsidised books available by request for those in financial need, just contact: [ministryteam@rosslynhillchapel.org.uk](mailto:ministryteam@rosslynhillchapel.org.uk)** Suggested donation: £10, for those who can afford to make a contribution. We are a registered charity - please give what you can.

In this live and in-person seminar you will have an opportunity to explore how you could possibly improve YOUR self-confidence. How does a lack of confidence affect you? Is it in personal relationships? In the professional arena? In meeting new people in social groups? Or just within yourself and having your own confidence to do what you would really like? This seminar is geared toward you. Come and discover what could be a real boost for you! Personal interviews are offered and personal recommendations can be made to assist you in life. The seminar is presented to you by an experienced life improvement consultant from the Church of Scientology London. All references are taken from the works of L Ron Hubbard.

In this live and in-person seminar you will have an opportunity to explore how you could possibly improve YOUR self-confidence. How does a lack of confidence affect you? Is it in personal relationships? In the professional arena? In meeting new people in social groups? Or just within yourself and having your own confidence to do what you would really like? This seminar is geared toward you. Come and discover what could be a real boost for you! Personal interviews are offered and personal recommendations can be made to assist you in life. The seminar is presented to you by an experienced life improvement consultant from the Church of Scientology London. All references are taken from the works of L Ron Hubbard.

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

In this local meeting, you will discover knowledge that you can use to get over the past. The key to improving your personal motivation, self-confidence, and happiness is to get over your painful memories. When you become free of your past, you will be free from stress, anger, anxiety and depression. Studies show that negative emotions can affect your health. By being free of negative emotions, believe it or not, you will most likely even look younger, feel more energetic, and become healthier! 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 brought to you by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! 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

How do we recover from having had a toxic or narcissistic ex? How do we move on from the past, especially something as traumatic as a divorce or breakup? How do we avoid anxiety and depression? How do we have more self esteem? In this meeting, you will learn the mental health secrets to help you quickly get over the past and heal your mind. 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 Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Meeting Room 3B, Main Library 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. This first gathering is a simple introduction to the spirit of the group and a chance to meet others seeking deeper meaning and community. All backgrounds are welcome.