Environment

Famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, **Bhutan**, the legendary **Kingdom of the Himalayas**, is a country unlike any other. Often called **the last Shangri-La**, this is a place where time runs slower, and the government operates by the unique philosophy of **Gross National Happiness**. Many factors contribute to the famed **happiness and contentment** of Bhutan’s population, from the country’s pride in **preserving its traditions**, languages, and customs to the **prioritization of wellbeing** over material wealth. In this land of dense forests and towering mountains, incredible vistas are all around, and a **connection to nature** is deeply ingrained in the culture. In addition, the practice of **Mahayana Buddhism** profoundly influences the Bhutanese way of life, emphasizing inner peace, compassion, and community harmony. With **stupas and monasteries** on every corner, spirituality is embedded in daily life here. Centuries of religious devotion have led to the creation of incredible landmarks and sacred spaces, including the country’s iconic crown jewel: Taktsang monastery, or **the** **Tiger’s Nest**. One of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas, the monastery appears like something out of a fairy tale, clinging to the rock a towering 800m (2,600ft) above the valley floor. Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural environment richer and more diverse than it is in Bhutan, home to high, rugged mountains and deep valleys which have been recognized as one of the world’s ten most important **biodiversity hotspots**. One of Bhutan’s ancient names was Menjong Yul, meaning **‘the land of medicinal herbs’**, and the people’s respect for the natural environment means that even today it remains pristine and mostly undisturbed. Here we’ll discover ancient spiritual practices, trek into untouched landscapes and feel the awe of nature’s majesty in this hidden corner of the world. [https://vimeo.com/238777975](https://vimeo.com/238777975) **Let’s go!** **DAY 0 :: DEC 28** Recommended departure to Kathmandu at 02:30-08:20. **DAY 1 :: DEC 29** Connecting flight to Bhutan at 09:00-10:20. On sunny days, the inbound flight to Bhutan is marked by **panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the towering Everest**. The approach through the tiny airstrip of Paro has been termed as “adventurous”, to say the least! Arrival in the afternoon, after which we’ll check in to the hotel in Thimpu and have our first experience with fiery **Bhutanese cuisine**. Later we’ll visit Thimphu’s Memorial Stupa, also known as the **Thimphu Chorten**, a prominent religious landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Afterwards we’ll take a short 3-4km hike to Kuensel Phodrang, reaching the **gigantic Buddha Dordenma** at the top of the hill. The **50-meter-high, gilt gold** **statue** fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D. and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. Overnight in Thimpu. **DAY 2 :: DEC 30** Today we drive via Dochu-La Pass to Punakha and hike to iconic **Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility),** located on a round hillock on the edge of Punakha Valley. After lunch our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic **Punakha Dzong fortress**, a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture which serves as a winter residence for the Dratshang Lhentshog, the commission for the monastic affairs of Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is picturesquely located in between two rivers – the **Pho Chhu (Male River) & Mo Chhu (Female River)** – and houses sacred Buddhist relics. We’ll then take a walk along the **Punakha suspension bridge**, Bhutan’s longest, stretching 180 m (590 ft) across the water of the Pho Chhu, before checking into the hotel and resting up for the evening. **DAY 3 :: DEC 31** Today after breakfast and formalities we’ll drive to the **Dochula Pass (3,100m)** and begin the hike to the 18th century **Lungchutse Lhakhang temple (3,565m)**. This uber picturesque route passes through primary forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, birches, and bamboos, and occasionally meadows being used as yak pastures. When we reach the temple we’ll be richly rewarded by views over the **entire span of Bhutan’s Himalayan range** and its majestic, snow covered peaks. We will then make our way downhill for about an hour until we reach Dochula Pass, encountering several landmarks and stupas along the path. In the afternoon we will have an opportunity to witness **rural life in Bhutanese village,** and those who would like to can experience a **traditional** **hot stone bath**. For even richer immersion, there is also the option to spend the night in the village. **Celebration of New Year's Eve Bhutan style!** **DAY 4 :: JAN 01** After breakfast we’ll start our last hike, to the sacred **Taktsang Monastery**, known as **the Tiger’s Nest,** situated at an altitude of 3100m in the Upper Paro Valley. During the hike we’ll keep our strength up with a picnic lunch in the woods with spectacular views. Our ancient destination is the abode of gods and monks, a place of great spiritualty since the 8th century. As per the legend of Taktsang, this was the site of a cave in the sheer cliff face used by mystic Guru Rinpoche for meditation. He assumed a wrathful form, Guru Dorji Drolo, riding a flying tigress to subdue the evil spirits in the area. After many centuries, a religious complex took shape here, clinging to the rock face, with the oldest temple built by a Nyingma Buddhist master around 1508. **DAY 5 :: JAN 02** Departure to Kathmandu at 07:00-08:00. Bye bye Bhutan! Optional city tour in Kathmandu before return flight home. **Level of difficulty:** Easy - short but steep trails. The grade may be perceived as moderate to beginners. **Activities:** hiking, walking, sightseeing and getting amazed! Altitude: 2280–3600m, **Duration:** 5 days. **Accommodation & meals:** Comfy 3\* hotels, double sharing. Single room 250 USD extra. Meals included. **Cost: 7,490 AED incl. flights Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu, until DEC 22nd.** Past this date please inquire about cost and availability. **Connection from Dubai to Kathmandu - excluded.** **Trip starts at Kathmandu airport** on DEC 29th with a flight to Paro. **Specifically included:** * Return flights Kathmandu - Paro - Kathmandu, * Bhutan visa, * All arrangements as per program, **Specifically excluded:** * Connecting flights Dubai - Kathmandu, * Overnight in Kathmandu between the flights, * activities and meals in Kathmandu, * any costs related to visa on arrival to Nepal, * Insurance. **Optional:** * Sightseeing Kathmandu on JAN 02 at 85 USD. **Visas:** **Visa to Bhutan (SDF) is included in trip budget.** [Visa to Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Nepal) available on arrival, if required. See yah in Bhutan x Trekkup Bhutan Crew [Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](info@trekkup.com)

Note: Registration is valid and confirmed only through **: link shared in [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D1cTWNPuq8ABDWjSYE3aVM).** **☕️ Coffee & Connections \| Dubai** *Sip, Mingle & Connect! 🌟* 👉[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Iz9NYHMtijFA6BGgBq51r2)**[Join the WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D1cTWNPuq8ABDWjSYE3aVM)** to stay updated on the exact location and weekly Join us for a social coffee meetup where good vibes, friendly faces, and great conversations come together. Unwind after a long day, meet new people, and enjoy a cozy evening in one of Dubai’s nicest café spots. 📍 Dubai \| Business Bay 🕖 7:00 PM Come for the coffee, stay for the connections — let’s sip, mingle, and make new friends! 💬✨

\*Healthy Morning Startup - Walk and Yoga\* \***Date**\*: Morning Time:- \***06:00 AM (Every Satruday, Sunday, Monday)**\* \***Location**\*:- DMCC Metro Marina Side Garden Next to Horizon Tower and Yacht Club \***Location - Google map**\* : \***https://goo.gl/maps/Mzd9WBRhohZoWJoM6**\* \***Register:-**\* it \***by joining whatsup group https://chat.whatsapp.com/JOFPV4e9MmG3i6carEOgzr**\* \***Contact Whatsup**\*: +971 524982943 (Dushyant) +971 561186716 (Mona) \***WHAT TO BRING**\* • Water • Yoga mat (optional)

**Wind down and let go!** Join us for a rejuvenating **FREE** Moonlight Stretch and Relaxing Yoga session at the peaceful **Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio**. This is your perfect opportunity to **transform** the end of your day from stressed and busy to calm, relaxed, and restored. Book your session now: [WhatsApp Us](https://wa.me/971543837625) *Note: MONDAY WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY \- ONLY LADIES \| TUESDAY THURSDAY & SATURDAY \- MEN ALSO WELCOME* **[1st Session will be FREE]**

Hi, I'm Frank, 47 years old from the UK. This is for anyone that is a decent swimmer and fancies creating a community of like minded sea creatures. Have swam all over the world and have never enjoyed anythying as much as swimming on this stretch watching the sun rise over the Burj Khalifa! I swim for about an hour and get 6 laps in over that time (just under 3km). Aiming to go further pver the coming weeks...

We’re bringing ambitious professionals together for an evening designed to spark meaningful business connections. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/business-connect-meetup)** It’s where **business owners, leaders, and experts** come together to spark new ideas, discover opportunities, and build connections that matter 🤝💡 ​ ✨ Meet ambitious professionals & entrepreneurs ✨ Grow your business network ✨ Explore collaborations & fresh opportunities ✨ Share ideas that inspire growth ​Each guest arrives not knowing who they’ll meet … Yet leaves with new connections, exciting possibilities, and maybe even their next big collaboration 🚀 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/business-connect-meetup)** ​💬 Expect surprising questions. Unexpected conversations. And the kind of business insights that linger long after the evening ends. ☕ Come for the coffee. **👥** Stay for the conversations. 🚀 Leave with opportunities. ​🔥 Think bold conversations. Big energy. Authentic chemistry. Because when you bring open-minded people together in the right space … magic happens ✨ **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/business-connect-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

Come and join us for friendly football games. Everyday at 9 pm Contact us through WhatsApp for booking 0522955859 We welcome all levels ♥️🫂 Fee are 40 AED

Join us every second Sunday From January 3 to April A biweekly Run Club for Sustainability Professionals — designed for all abilities and all paces. This isn’t about speed. It’s about connection. Our goal is to bring sustainability professionals together to: • Network in a relaxed, non-corporate setting • Move together while discussing ideas that matter • Build meaningful collaborations • Strengthen the sustainability ecosystem in the UAE Whether you walk, jog, or run — you belong here. Let’s move with purpose and build something impactful together

Dear All, The wait is officially over! We are thrilled to announce that our partner host, **Riviera Leisure Yachts**, is gearing up for the ultimate **Dubai New Year’s Eve Fireworks Party**. We would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you to join us for this prestigious celebration. Ring in the New Year on the water with Dubai’s most magical night cruise. Step aboard for **Marina Midnight Glow**, where the skyline shines brighter, the music feels better, and the fireworks light up the sky in 360-degree glory. Enjoy six unforgettable hours of celebration as we sail through the heart of Dubai, surrounded by the city's iconic lights and unmatched energy. 🛥️✨ **🌟 The Experience Includes:** * **Duration:** 6-Hour Premium Cruise (8 PM – 2 AM) * **Refreshments:** Unlimited mocktails, soft drinks, and water * **Dining:** Gourmet welcome canapés, finger foods, and desserts * **Exclusivity:** Fireworks viewing deck & onboard photo booth * **Safety:** Professional crew and safety team onboard **💸 Price:** AED 5,500 per person **⏰ Timing:** 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM A night this big deserves a view this iconic. Spaces are strictly limited for this boutique luxury experience. **✨ Secure your spot now:** 👉 [link.tickit.co/u9a2](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://link.tickit.co/u9a2) **Book Your NYE Yacht Celebration Today!**

Masnavi Book 1 Weekly reading and discussion group

Wander through a lush wadi with date palms, running springs, and small pools on a **5 km** loop (about **2 h**). Children and beginners will love the greenery and sound of flowing water. Meet at **06:00 AM** at the trailhead; bring water, snacks, quick‑dry shoes or sandals, and be prepared for some light rock hopping. Join at your own risk. **General guidelines (apply to all events):** * **Arrive by 05:55 AM** to meet the group and depart at 06:00 AM. * Carry **2–3 L of water**, snacks or a light breakfast, a hat, sunscreen, and a small first‑aid kit. * Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip; trekking poles are optional for longer hikes. * Inform a friend or family member of your plans and check weather forecasts (avoid wadis after heavy rain). * This is a **free, peer‑led group**; everyone is responsible for their own safety and participation is at your **own risk**. \*\*Please join the Whatsapp Group for carpooling/coordination (optional)\*\*[https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X)

Join **Sandz** every Sunday for a 2-hour sunset volleyball social at Kite Beach. No leagues. No pressure. Just good games, great people, and Dubai’s best beach energy. 🌅 **What’s Included:** * 2 hours of rotating beach volleyball matches * Guided stretch & hydration break * **Smoothies and refreshments after the final set** * A chance to meet Dubai’s friendliest crowd 💸 AED 100 per person 📍 Kite Beach Volleyball Courts 🕐 Sundays, 5:30 PM – 7:45 PM 🎟️ **RSVP here, then confirm your booking via our website:** 👉 [https://www.sandz.ae/event/the-volleyball-social-by-sandz ](https://www.sandz.ae/event/the-volleyball-social-by-sandz) *The Volleyball Social — your weekly game on the sand.*

We’re kicking off Round Two of the Kite Beach Walks — a high-energy, community-driven morning walk designed to boost wellness, spark new connections, and build real consistency. Expect a steady pace, good vibes, and a supportive group focused on starting the day with purpose. Join us if you’re ready to build momentum and make this weekly walk part of your lifestyle.

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible. Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds. Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216 This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map. If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information: * Botanical Name * Common Name Species we will accept: * Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best * Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good * Straight species only - no cultivars. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads. Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email. If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.

We are recruiting new group leaders for virtual men's groups! Our primary groups are outdoor movement groups, but we are launching virtual groups for the state of Ohio and beyond and the groups will move outside in the spring, creating room for men's groups, women's groups and coed groups all over the country. Read below to learn about our groups and click the links at the bottom to apply. ### **What is an Outdoor Empowerment Group?** Our Outdoor Movement & Community Empowerment Groups are simple, guided experiences designed to help people reconnect with nature, themselves, and others. We combine some form of movement (hike, walk, run, bike, yoga, workout) and meaningful conversation within a simple community circle to create a space where individuals can support each other while prioritizing mental and physical well-being. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or community, our groups offer everyone a unique and welcoming environment. ## **Why Join?** * **Improve Mental & Physical Well-Being** – Movement, nature, and supportive conversations reduce stress and promote balance. * **Feel Less Alone** – Build genuine connections with like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space. * **Gain Clarity & Perspective** – Step outside daily routines and into a space designed for personal growth and reflection. ## **The Ideal Group Leader** The ideal group leader * Has a born-in passion for mental health, movement, connecting with nature and building community. * Has 5 extra hours per week to dedicate to a meaningful cause for at least one year. Yes, you can leave any organization at any time and we can also ask you to leave, but we are building with legacy in mind and we need people who can commit and be ALL IN on this mission to build with us. * Is independently financially stable with the ability to volunteer with no expectation of pay. This is a deeply beautiful journey of service that all participants commit to at Speak Your Mind. * An ability to manage groups with high emotional intelligence and desire for human connection. * An ability to self-motivate and market/promote their group on Facebook and other social platforms. * Nature informed therapy or clinical therapists/psychologists a plus. ## **Our Impact**  Since launching, we have helped thousands find support, connection, and healing through our Outdoor Movement Groups. 100% of participants surveyed have reported: * A noticeable improvement in mental clarity and emotional well-being. * An increase in social connection and a sense of belonging. * Said they would return again. We believe mental health should be accessible, community-driven, and rooted in nature. Join us and take the first step toward a more connected, grounded, and supported version of yourself. ### **Why Our Groups are Donation-Based** Our Outdoor Movement Groups are made possible through a donation-based model. This approach allows us to keep our events accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances, while also ensuring that we can continue expanding our reach. It’s a great way to pay it forward and support the growth of this beautiful mission! Every contribution helps us: * **Cover Essential Costs** – Donations allow us to pay essential legal, marketing, insurance, and admin costs as well as nourish the important people who run the organization. * **Grow Our Mission** – With your support, we can bring these healing experiences to thousands more people in the future and execute our long term plan to expand across the USA, affecting up to 500,000 people per year. By choosing to contribute, you’re not just leading an event—you’re helping build a mental health movement that supports long-term well-being and connection for all during a severe mental health epidemic. ## **Come Join Us!** We’d love to have you be part of this growing community of people prioritizing their mental health, movement, and connection. 🔹 **Visit Our Website to Learn More:** https://speakyourmind.men/joinusoutside 🔹 **Apply Here to Lead Your Own Group!** – https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application 🔹 **Support the mission**: If you resonate with the mission and want to support, feel free to join a group before applying or donate to help us reach our goals to help more people! You can donate here: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/angels-for-angels/speak-your-mind Please text Mario with any questions: (808) 855-8831

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).

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

Monday December 29th at 6PM we'll be meeting up dinner at the Pies & Pints at Easton. Feel free to bring guests. Sandwiches run about $15 and large pizzas run $20-30.