Self-Advocacy

PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/

Dive into a transformative experience at our Be Yourself Dance Fitness: Hip hop, Latin dance, African, Bollywood, a FUSION of World Dance! Come feel the vibes!! Awaken Your Spirit. [Come share your love for dance, movement, and spirituality where you will BU & LIVE ALIVE, step outside of your zone, align your chakras through rhythmic expression. Explore the connection between movement and consciousness as we guide you through sound healing sessions and exercises to enhance your spiritual awakening. ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNYX9RVF)Whether you are new to chakras or a seasoned practitioner, Be Yourself Dance Fitness offers something for everyone. Connect with like-minded individuals in a welcoming environment focused on love, happiness, and self-discovery. This event is perfect for those interested in exploring the intersection of dance, spirituality, and fitness. Let go of inhibitions, unleash your creativity, and elevate your mind, body, and soul. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a journey towards holistic well-being and self-realization. Bring bottle of Water and plenty of attitude. The Event is Free , However, We accept donations $Cash APP $BU314 Venmo: Wayne-Christopher-8

This class provides a trauma sensitive yoga approach for those of us living with chronic conditions/illnesses such as stroke, long covid, cancer, arthritis, parkinson’s disease, disabilities, fibromyalgia, injuries, aging, muscular sclerosis, balance issues, pain, knee or hip replacements, and for those of us who prefer, or our bodies have chosen to not so easily transition to and from the floor, to experience yoga. This adaptive class will meet you where you are as we explore the benefits of yoga from our seats and through the use of the wall. **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.

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

Think you aren't flexible enough for yoga? Afraid to get onto the floor? Living with physical aches or restricted range of motion? Then this is the perfect yoga class for you! Explore your body's strengths in a fun, supportive environment while maintaining and growing your range of motion, flexibility, balance, strength, and sense of peace. All are welcome in this therapeutic class. Come ready to try new things, laugh, ask questions, and support each other. **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.

Calling all Crew Members! 🚢 BBaddies On A Track! We will be meeting at 6am to hit the track. We will do a warm up and then a few drills and sprints on the track! We will also have fun and be in community!

The [Veg Society of DC (VSDC)](vsdc.org) encourages our members and friends to show support for the LGBTQIA+ community and stand up for animals while doing it! We are invited to join [FARM (Farm Animal Rights Movement)](https://farmusa.org/) for its third year in a row of marching in the Capital Pride Parade in DC. This is an opportunity to reach thousands of people with a "Go Vegan" message and this year, a new "Respect All Bodies" campaign. Volunteers to pass out literature and goodies to the parade watchers. Last year we couldn’t hand literature out fast enough! Water and snacks will be provided. Please come stand up for animals in this fun, community forward environment! ***Please look for full and latest details on FARM's facebook page:*** ***[March with FARM in the DC Pride Parade! | Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/events/1325-15th-st-nw-washington-dc-20005/march-with-farm-in-the-dc-pride-parade/1520537916344790/)*** ***Best to check there for any questions and to interact with the FARM organizers.*** Note: the parade itself is scheduled from 3 to 7:30 pm but volunteers may be gathering around noon to meet, plan, and interact. See the facebook page above for all details. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Takoma Park with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Takoma Park, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Takoma Park.

**Tired of surface-level conversations?** Join us for *Ditch the Small Talk*—an evening of deep, real connection with strangers who are down to go there. We’ll meet in the grass in front of the cathedral, break into small groups, and draw questions from a deck of cards designed to spark vulnerable, honest conversations. How it works: Draw a card and ask a question. Listen. Don't coach or give advice without permission. Try to ask follow-up questions when people share. You can spend 1 minute on a question or 1 hour, just go with the flow. **If you show up late, please don't interrupt the speaker. Just sit down in a group of your choice and they'll bring you up to speed when whoever is talking finishes. Bring a blanket or chair if you don't want to sit in the grass. *** Rules*** 1. Don't debate politics 2. Keep what is shared in the group within the group 3. If you need to use your phone, step away from your group first

Think you aren't flexible enough for yoga? Afraid to get onto the floor? Living with physical aches or restricted range of motion? Then this is the perfect yoga class for you! Explore your body's strengths in a fun, supportive environment while maintaining and growing your range of motion, flexibility, balance, strength, and sense of peace. All are welcome in this therapeutic class. Come ready to try new things, laugh, ask questions, and support each other. **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 3,5,7,9.** 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.

Families and children are invited to join us for an hour of stories, songs, and playtime! \* \* \* This event is open to both DSA Members and supporters. Not a Member? Please consider [becoming a Member](https://dsausa.org/join?source=Metro%20DC). Fees are on a sliding scale according to what you feel you can afford.

ASL HangOut is a safe fun social All levels D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, Hearing signers, ASL students, ASL interpreter. Hosted by Daniel Berke and his friends Jeremy, Andrew, Nathaniel. and Josh There's always a great mix of people and good conversations We will be meeting at the Tysons Corner Food Court (3rd Floor), Thursday at 7pm! Hope to see you all there! 🙂 Look for a table of ASL signers...don't be shy. 1961 Chain Bridge Rd Tysons Corner, VA 22102 join our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/468631322134694

This offering, *Rest. Restore. Reconnect: When Slowing Down Feels Hard*, was born from a truth I know intimately — that rest isn’t always easy. That stillness can feel unfamiliar. That slowing down can bring us face-to-face with everything we’ve been carrying. **And yet… it’s also where the healing begins.** **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rest-restore-reconnect-3-week-yin-restorative-popup-yoga-experience-tickets-1988229785811?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **DROP INS: $20.00 PER SESSION** **ALL THREE SESSIONS: $60.00** **TWO FOR ONE ALL THREE SESSIONS: $70.00 (invite a friend)** **DATES: Saturday, June 13, Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, June 27** **TIMES: 10 AM - 11 AM** Over the course of three Saturdays, we’ll gather in a space at the **Black Owned Teahouse: [Adjourn Teahouse](https://adjournteahouse.com) in Lanham, MD,** intentionally curated for softness, support, and gentle return. Through yin + restorative yoga therapy, you’ll be guided to release tension, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with your body in a way that feels safe and sustainable. This is not about doing more. This is about allowing yourself to *be*. And because your experience matters beyond the mat, each session will close with a beautiful tea time — a moment to integrate, connect, and savor. There will be other thoughtful touches woven throughout… little surprises to deepen your experience and make each gathering feel like a retreat from the noise of everyday life. If you’ve been feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or disconnected… If your body has been asking you to slow down, but you haven’t known how… This space was created with you in mind. **[REGISTER HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rest-restore-reconnect-3-week-yin-restorative-popup-yoga-experience-tickets-1988229785811?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **DROP INS: $20.00 PER SESSION** **ALL THREE SESSIONS: $60.00** **TWO FOR ONE ALL THREE SESSIONS: $70.00 (invite a friend)** **DATES: Saturday, June 13, Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, June 27** **TIMES: 10 AM - 11 AM** ALL ARE WELCOMED Limited spots available — because intimacy, presence, and care are at the heart of this experience. I can’t wait to hold space for you 🌿✨

Discover the path to stress management, life's tranquility, and self-improvement through Heartfulness Meditation. Embrace relaxation, meditation, and emotional detoxification practices to unlock your best self. Join our free sessions every Sunday at 8 AM at VA. Experience the profound benefits of these simple yet powerful practices. Commit to a few months of meditation and witness the transformative impact firsthand. We eagerly await your presence at these enlightening sessions.

This is a group for adults who want to ground in nature and connect to their creative selves in a warm and supportive environment. We'll meet weekly for 13 weeks (beginning June 26th) at a goat farm in Silver Spring, MD. We'll begin with a goat walk. That's right, we'll walk through the woods with goats and then focus on the chapters of Julia Cameron's book, *Walking in This World.* Maybe you want to dive deeper after having completed a facilitated group based on Cameron's first book, *The Artist's Way* or you want to jump right into exploring your inner landscape through writing and grounding in nature. You don't have to be a self-proclaimed or professional writer or artist to join. Just bring your curiosity, a copy of the book, something to write with and a commitment to attend all sessions if possible. Since the in-person portion of the group will be held at a private residence, I'll email registrants the address once they've signed up. Please dress in comfy clothes that might possibly be nibbled on by adorable goats, as the residence is also a goat farm. Wear closed toed shoes and feel free to bring water, a snack for yourself, bug spray and sunblock. In-person attendees will meet at 7 am. In the event of more than light rain, we'll skip goat walks and meet in the indoor office. There is an indoor bathroom on-site. For those joining on-line, plan to join at 7:30 am. You'll also need something to write with and a copy of the book.

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

⚡ Reset your direction. Meet someone unexpected. Walk away with fresh clarity. Join us for a relaxed **small-group afternoon event** that blends a light **Inner Coach conversation experience** with a **community potluck lunch**. In February we hosted our first **Inner Coach event**, and many attendees said it helped them notice something powerful — the voice inside that quietly guides better decisions when life gets complicated. This event builds on that idea. Instead of overthinking the past, we’ll explore how to **reset direction for what’s next** — through thoughtful conversation, new perspectives, and the kind of questions that spark real insight. We’ll start with a few short conversation rounds designed to spark reflection, humor, and perspective — and then continue the discussion over food and relaxed conversation. Think **good food, grounded people, and real conversations about what comes next in life.** Held in our **Startup Garage** — a bright, comfortable living-room style space inside a single-family home. (Couches, food, conversation — **not an actual garage** 😊) *** ## **🥘 Potluck Lunch** If you're able, bring something small to share. Homemade or store-bought — both welcome. A dish you enjoy making. A dish that always works Or simply something easy from the store If you're busy, come anyway — the goal is **community, not perfection**. We’ll share a relaxed **afternoon potluck lunch** while continuing meaningful conversations with people navigating their next chapter. *** ## **What You’ll Experience** • Light conversation rounds designed to spark insight • Fresh perspectives from people navigating similar life transitions • Humor, perspective, and grounded conversation • A relaxed environment where ideas and connections happen naturally *** ## **Who Typically Attends** • Professionals in their 30s–40s–50s • Entrepreneurs and builders • Divorced or separated individuals navigating what’s next • People who prefer thoughtful conversation over surface-level small talk Whether you're **resetting direction, building something new, or simply meeting grounded people**, this event is designed for honest connection and fresh perspective. *** Most attendees are navigating life and growth with **curiosity, clarity, and a sense of humor.** 📍 Hosted in a spacious living-room setting inside a single-family home (Ashburn – 20147). Full address and parking details are emailed **2–3 days before the event.** 🌐 Learn more about the community [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co) *** If you're curious about the **Inner Coach vs Inner Critic concept**, here’s a short introduction: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtgoDgqppGI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtgoDgqppGI)

Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching. Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.

Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions

1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?

Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles

4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?

Optional Questions: AI & Being Human

7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?

Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning

10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?

Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche

13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?

Optional Questions: Work & Purpose

16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?

Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection

19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?

Optional Questions: Time & Mortality

22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?

Optional Questions: Society & Culture

25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?

Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy

28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?

Whether you are a seasoned Toastmaster looking to sharpen your skills or a newcomer seeking to boost your self-help and self-improvement journey, this workshop is designed to provide practical tools and strategies for personal growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from Empower Confident Toastmasters Club to network, collaborate, and empower each other on the path to becoming confident, effective leaders. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and take your leadership journey to the next level.