Intimacy

**Quick update:** There was a typo in the event description: The event is on **February 18**, not February 8. Sorry about that! RSVPs on Meetup are now closed since most guests signed up via Luma, and it’s easier to manage this way. You can still register or join the waitlist using this link: https://luma.com/i8yzc8m7?tk=gMseHM On Wednesday, February 18th, I’m inviting you to join for an evening of connection, play, and reimagining relationships beyond the scripts and power structures of monogamy, heteronormativity, and patriarchy. This is NOT a dating event; it’s a gathering of people who enjoy reflecting, learning, and exchanging perspectives on relationships, community, and sexuality. This event is especially directed towards non monogamous/ relationship anarchist people and/or people who are curious and open to discussing alternative relationship structures. I’m the creator of The Relationship Design Game, The Sexuality Design Game, and The Community Design Game, and we’ll play the games together. Through their prompts, the games create space to rethink relationships according to your own needs and desires, and to cultivate communication, honesty, and respect. There will be space for sharing personal experiences, gaining different perspectives, supporting one another, listening, and being listened to with empathy. Feel free to bring drinks and or snacks to share ☺️ There will be no tolerance for racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or hate speech of any kind. The meetup will take place at a private home. The space is limited, but it’s cozy and warm. Please cancel in advance if you’re not able to come, so I can offer the spot to someone else. The location will be in Kastanienallee. I’ll send the exact address after confirmation. I hope to see you there!

💗 **Tired of Swiping? Meet Real Singles in Berlin.** **Founded by a woman** who understands the struggle, Zeya is here to bring back organic connections. **No apps, no awkward small talk, just 6 curated singles at a cozy restaurant.** 🇩🇪 **Zeya bietet kuratierte Hangouts für Singles in Berlin. Sicher, persönlich und ohne Dating-Apps.** **[Join next Berlin hangout – RSVP now!](https://zeya.cc/register)** ✅ **Women-Founded & Safe:** We prioritize a safe, respectful, and high-quality environment. ✅ **Expertly Curated:** We handpick 6 people based on vibes and interests = not just a random crowd. ✅ **Proven Success:** Proud **Web Summit Alpha Startup \| 92%** 🙌 Showed\-up \| **43%** 🔥 Hangouts matched \| **60%** 💖 Joined again \| **16** 💬 Hangouts **📋 How it works:** 1. **Register (1 min):** Fill out a curation form at [https://zeya.cc/register](https://zeya.cc/register) 2. **Get Matched:** We find the best match for you among Berlin singles. 3. **Join the Hangout:** Once matched, you’ll get a WhatsApp invitation to a cozy Berlin spot. 4. **No Pressure:** Just 🤍 First time €9 \| 💖 Regular €12 to ensure a balanced mix and no\-shows\. If no hangout offer in 31 days? **100% Full Refund.** **🥰** **Why Berliners Love Zeya?** * 🔒 **Privacy First:** No public profiles. No one sees you until you meet in person. * ⏳ **Zero Effort:** Skip the endless "Hey, how's your weekend?" texts. We do the work. * ☕ **Organic Vibes:** No awkward ice-breakers or loud moderators nor busy rotating with funny bell sound 🐶. Just 6 like-minded people having a great time. * 💌 **Smooth Follow-ups:** Like someone? Let us know privately via our post-event form. We connect you if it's a match! **[Join next Berlin hangout – RSVP now!](https://zeya.cc/register)** **Ready for a Wednesday evening that doesn't involve a screen?** #BerlinSingles #ZeyaHangouts #SocialMatchingBerlin #BerlinEvents #SafeDatingBerlin #BerlinSinglesHangouts #SinglesEventsBerlin #WomenFounded #DinnerDate #NeuinBerlin #Leutekennenlernen #Socialize #DatingAlternative #FreundeFinden

**In Association With the Berlin Portrait Academy and PAKD Gallery / PAKD Art Lab** * **www.berlinportraitacademy.com** * **www.pakd-gallery.com/artlab** * **Cost: 15 Euros** A regular opportunity to study the nude or portrait from life for 3 hours, every single week! We have one long pose - you can choose whether to draw several studies from different angles around the room, or take your time to do a single sustained drawing or painting in full detail. The pose is held for 20 minute intervals with five minute breaks in-between so the model to rest and stretch, and so artists can move between seats if they choose. We provide some materials such as paper, pencils & pastels for free. Canvases, brushes and acrylic paint can be purchased at the event. We hope to see you there very soon!

**What happens when artificial intelligence meets very human emotion?** This Wednesday, **Mercury Toastmasters Berlin** explores that question inside the *Historic Imperial Breakfast Hall at **Das Center, Potsdamer Platz.*** *In a world shaped by algorithms, one skill becomes more powerful, the ability to speak with clarity, empathy, and presence.* *Experience the **power of prepared speeches** loaded with bold ideas, participate in our **dynamic Impromptu Session**, and **gain valuable insights** during our feedback segment.* Leave with practical tools, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration. Whether you want to speak up at work, boost your presence, or just meet inspiring people, you’ll feel at home at Mercury Toastmasters Berlin. *** **[What to Expect:](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)** ✨ A supportive space to speak, grow, and connect 🎤 Engaging prepared speeches ⚡ Fun, fast-paced impromptu speaking challenges 💬 Feedback session you can actually use 🌍 A friendly, international crowd (around 25–30 people) **Schedule** (times may vary) ⏰ 19:15 - Doors open & networking 🎙️ 19:30 - Prepared Speeches 🏓 20:35 - Impromptu Session (Guest welcome to join) ↩️ 21:00 - Constructive feedback 💬 21:30 - Food, drinks & relaxed socializing **No experience needed.** ***Come curious. Leave energized.*** *** **🤙 [Hear it from our members:](https://maps.app.goo.gl/eRtvR9DRNqU9WZQn7)** *“You can sharpen your public speaking skills and gain tons of confidence, while having fun and making new friends. Mercury is well-structured, fun, and affordable.”* — *Therese Pitt* *“Mercury gave me a safe place to speak, create, and grow. I love the multicultural vibe and supportive community. It’s the best place to learn and have fun.”* — *Krisztina Linka* *** **[Did You Know?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Toastmasters is where people go to get better at speaking—and grow into confident communicators and leaders. Today [Toastmasters ](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/about-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)has 350,000+ members across 16,000 clubs in 143 countries. And [Mercury](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/) is one of the best places to experience it. So bring your curiosity, your energy—and just be yourself. Whether you’re just starting or ready to level up, there’s a place for you here. *** **[Wondering what you get as a member?](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/membership-mercury-toastmasters-berlin/)** Think expert feedback, real-world speaking practice, and a supportive crew that’s got your back. [See you Wednesday night! 🎉](https://mercurytoastmasters.de/find-toastmasters-meetings-in-berlin/)

[*Registration form required below*] **Interested in Japanese sword fighting or Japanese culture? Come join a trial and experience the traditional Samurai art at Katori Shintō-ryū in Schöneberg.** **Trial Fee**: **25€**/ session (2hr). Classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 19:00 to 21:00. **!!SIGN UP HERE**: [Katori Shinto-ryū Berlin Sign-up (google.com)](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBt4A13VgnEcgQQ2PDaruthmYMRWineG4KtUCKsuC9KBsCUQ/viewform) Registration is required before your participation so that we can prepare enough training equipment. **Address**: Belziger Str. 25, 10823 Berlin. **No previous experience required!** The classes are in English and German. **Our website**: [Kenjutsu Berlin - Official school of Katori Shinto-ryu in Berlin (katoriberlin.org)](https://katoriberlin.org/) **Katori Shintō-ryū** is one of the oldest Japanese sword fighting traditions (koryū) still practised today and is recognized by the Japanese government as a cultural intangeable asset. The school was founded in the middle of the 15th century by Iizasa Chōisai Ienao at the Katori Shrine (Katori jingū) and has become the origin of numerous other martial arts schools over the course of its almost 600-year history. The training consists of the continuous repetition of fixed sequences of movements (kata) and includes the use of classic Japanese weapons such as the sword (iai-jutsu, battō-jutsu, ken-jutsu, ryōtō-jutsu, kodachi-jutsu), the long staff (bō-jutsu), the lance (naginata-jutsu) and the spear (sō-jutsu), as well as unarmed disciplines, tactics and spiritual aspects. **The Katori Berlin dojo** is the only official shibu of Otake Nobutoshi-shihan’s dojo Shinbukan in Germany and fully dedicated to the transmission and study of one martial tradition: Tenshinshō-den Katori Shintō-ryū. Through these efforts we aim to contribute to the cultural preservation of this martial tradition. The dojo has one officially appointed shidosha. **Our sensei**: Sebastian Graetz has been active in martial arts since 1997. After almost 15 years of taekwondo in Berlin, he started with Katori Shintō-ryū in Asia in 2014. Since then, he has studied in Japan with Ōtake Risuke-shihan and Ōtake Nobutoshi-shihan, and in Vietnam with Malte Stokhof-shihandai. In 2023, he received his Menkyo license and permission to set up a training group in Berlin the following year.

**Tickets via Eventbrite 👉 [https://kundalini-shakeoff-pankow.eventbrite.de](https://kundalini-shakeoff-pankow.eventbrite.de)** **BESCHREIBUNG** Kundalini Shake Off ist meine Version der *Kundalini-Meditation nach OSHO* \- eine schlichte\, strukturierte Bewegungsmeditation in vier Phasen: Schütteln\, Tanzen\, Spüren\, Ruhen\. Keine Show\, kein Druck\, keine Esoterik\-Clouds – nur du\, zentrierte\, speziell kuratierte Kundalini\-Musik und ein klarer Ablauf\, der den Kopf runter\- und den Körper hochfährt\. Ein moderner Reset für Menschen, die merken: Manchmal braucht’s keinen Guru – nur 60 Minuten, in denen der Körper machen darf, was er will; und *in denen du dich trauen darfst, loszulassen*. Alle sind willkommen – egal ob jung (18+), alt, laut, leise, Frau, Mann, Divers… Keine Erfahrung nötig. Nur Lust auf Begegnung mit Spaß und Leichtigkeit. *(English speakers welcome)* **ABLAUF** * **18:30 - Ankommen & Setup:** Kennenlernen, vertraut machen, ggf. Umziehen, Matten und Decken bereit legen, kurze Intro durch Host * **18:45 - ShakeOff:** je 15 Min Schütteln, Tanzen, Spüren, Ruhen unter minimaler Anleitung/Ermutigung ;) * **19:45 - Ausklang:** Zurück in die Realität kommen, kurzer Austausch über das Erleben, Zusammenpacken **HINWEISE** * Anmeldung nur via Eventbrite 👉 [https://kundalini-shakeoff-pankow.eventbrite.de](https://kundalini-shakeoff-pankow.eventbrite.de) * Yoga-Matten sind vorhanden. Bring gern eine Decke und warme Socken für die Entspannungsphase mit. * Bequeme, bewegungsgeeignete Kleidung ist von Vorteil, aber komm gern, wie du dich am Wohlsten fühlst. * Bitte bring deinen eigenen Durstlöscher für die aktive Phase mit :) * Kostenbeteiligung: Sliding Scale zwischen €10 und €18 zur Deckung von Zeit & Vorbereitung (alle Infos auf Eventbrite). * Privat organisiertes Event: keine Haftung für Unfälle oder Verluste

### **THE BEAR** presents: **COLD** *A night of true, personal storytelling* Winter has a way of showing us where warmth is missing — and where it suddenly appears. This month at **THE BEAR**, we explore the theme COLD: stories about distance and closeness, breaking the ice, emotional frost, quiet loneliness, or jumping into cold water — literally or metaphorically. On stage, everyday people from Berlin share true, personal stories, told live and without notes. No acting. No fiction. Just real experiences, shared in a warm, cozy atmosphere. You don’t need to know anyone. You don’t need to be “into storytelling.” **Just come, listen, and be part of the room.** **🔥 What to expect** • 8 short, true stories (about 5–7 minutes each) • Live music throughout the night • A relaxed, welcoming audience • Laughter, honesty, and moments of quiet connection **We start as strangers — and often leave feeling a little closer.** **🎤 Want to tell a story?** Anyone can put their name into our legendary hat. Names are drawn at random — courage counts more than experience. If you’d like feedback on your story beforehand, just write to us. hello(at)thebear-storytelling.de **💬 Language note** Stories are told in English (and sometimes German). **Everyone is welcome — listeners and storytellers alike.** **If winter feels cold, let’s warm up together.** **We’d love to have you there 🐻✨** 🎤 Open Stage · True personal stories (5 minutes) 🗓️ **Thursday, Feb 19, 2026 · 19:00** 📍 Theatre Pool, Berlin 👉 **[Tickets:](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw)**[ €15–20 (sliding scale donation)](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw) ## **Our Mission** ## *THE BEAR* **has grown into one of Berlin’s most beloved live storytelling events: a place where strangers become a community through the simple act of listening.** Supported by: [THE BEAR e.V. ](https://deref-web.de/mail/client/3fe0d0dh9KM/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fthebear-storytelling.us6.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3Db5d7f087b587f8f081c447437%26id%3Dfc0e2d8df3%26e%3D711d4db9af), [Moving-Speaker.com](https://www.moving-speaker.com/), [Female Speaking Berlin](https://www.femalespeakingberlin.com/), and [Experience Berlin Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Berlin-Videos).

Join us to explore Wedding 🥰 On 21.02 we’ll gather at U-Bahn Franz-Neumann Platz at 11 am for another 5k run in Wedding. The meeting point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/obm9Fcc43aGL2GV36?g_st=ipc Don’t worry if you are new! We run at a pace which is comfortable for everyone, so it’s a great chance to start 😉 Take care and see you soon to enjoy another active morning together ❤️ P.S. ‼️️ Please cancel your participation if you can’t show up, even if it’s at short notice so that we don’t wait for you. Thanks! ‼️

**Authentic Relating & Circling with Sophie and Marco** Come and connect and learn the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling. We normally do about a half-hour of Authentic Relating in paired-shares, followed by Circling in up to two breakouts, usually rejoining the large group at the end. However the program will change according to the experience of the participants at each event. If you are not familiar with Authentic Relating & Circling, you can read Marco's book on the [Circling Guide](https://circlingguide.com) website. All events are beginner-friendly and no prior experience is necessary. If all goes well, you will feel that this is what you have been doing your whole life, and all you ever wanted was to be with people who share this way of being! **PS:** **don't look at Meetup RSVP's, as this event is advertised through multiple channels. Please always register due to limited space. To register and get the address, RSVP and then message Marco here on Meetup or else WhatsApp to +49 1573 9667979 or follow this link: [https://wa.me/4915739667979](https://wa.me/4915739667979)** **\*\*Why attend?\*\*** * Are you seeking more fun, connection, and deeper understanding with the people in your life? * Do you lack an honest, loving space to communicate your needs and desires? * You long for a supportive community where all issues can be brought openly and with care? * You are curious about how the powerful practices of Authentic Relating and Circling can enhance your life? *If so, our Authentic Relating and Circling evenings are for you!* **\*\*Who should attend?\*\*** These sessions are open to people of all genders and sexual orientations who want to bring Authentic Relating skills and practice into their life. This program is ideal for you if: * You're interested in other people and how they think and feel. * You enjoy stepping out of your comfort zone. * You're self-responsible and open. * You want to be seen, heard, and appreciated for what's important to you. * You want to engage with others in tender conversations about the challenges of being human. **\*\*Dates\*\*** *We're offering Authentic Relating & Circling every Thursday from 19:00-21:30.* **\*\*Cost\*\*** The cost at the door is 25€ / 30€ / 20€ (depending on your income). Alternatively buy a 5-pass card for €80 (€16 per session). **\*\*Location and Directions\*\*** Kleiststraße @ Eisenacher Str., 10787 Berlin-Schöneberg Our house is a short walk from Nollendorfplatz U, and is also served by several buses. For the exact address message Marco here, or (better)message Whatsapp +49 1573 9667979 (https://wa.me/4915739667979). **\*\*Other Programs\*\*** In addition to AR & Circling live in Berlin, Sophie and Marco have other programs and services, online and in person. These include individual and couples coaching, our 6 week Authentic Relating in Community (in [English ](https://circlingguide.com/arc)and [German](https://circlingguide.com/arcs/)), retreats & immersions. For details refer the the Connecting Circle website at [https://connecting-circle.de/](https://connecting-circle.de/). Join our WhatApp announcement channel [http://bit.ly/46fNuDE](http://bit.ly/46fNuDE) Join our Telegram announcement channel [http://bit.ly/45XXbb6](http://bit.ly/45XXbb6) **\*\*Facilitators\*\*** Marco Beneteau, author of the "Circling Guide" ([www.circlingguide.com](https://www.circlingguide.com/)), the most popular book on Circling within the Authentic Relating tradition. Marco has been leading AR groups for seven years. Sophie Lemperle-McGrath, founder of connecting-circle ([www.connecting-circle.de](http://www.connecting-circle.de/)) is a Gestalt & AR facilitator, mediator and "Getting Real" couples Coach. *Our Authentic Relating & Circling nights are fun and engaging. We hope to see you there!* **\*\*Agreements & Terms of Service (Please read)\*\*** **Authentic Relating and Circling is not therapy**. People encounter states, emotions, beliefs, and sensations in themselves and others which can be difficult. We explore the unknown, the volatile, the ambiguous, as well as welcome emotions many deem as “negative” or “inappropriate” such as feelings of inadequacy, anger, sexuality, and joy. We refer to the willingness to feel difficult and uncomfortable truths as the “commitment to connection,” which of course includes a willingness to set appropriate boundaries, and speak a desire for space, distance, and non-contact. By attending our events you take responsibility for your level of participation, which might include choosing to leave. If all this sounds potentially overwhelming or destabilizing for you, if you have mental illness or significant emotional challenges that you feel may be exacerbated by this type of transformational environment, or if you are not sure that you can be self-directed in taking care of your needs during the event, then we advise you not to attend. We look forward to seeing you!

Drypoint Printmaking Workshop — Coming Up! Learn the fundamentals of drypoint printmaking in a hands-on workshop held over 4 sessions, every Saturday from 11:00–14:00, starting February 21. until 14.03.2026 After completing the course, participants will be able to create their own drypoint prints independently in our studio. Upcoming workshops will introduce additional printmaking techniques, including Aquatint and Sugar Lift — stay tuned! Price: 110€ for the full 4-session workshop 35€ for one session Registration for full 4 - session Please email Kifan Alkarjousli 📧 kifan@pakd-gallery.com Limited spots available — be sure to secure yours early! Drypoint Printmaking Workshop — Coming Up! Learn the fundamentals of drypoint printmaking in a hands-on workshop held over 4 sessions, every Saturday from 11:00–14:00, starting February 21. until 14.03.2026 After completing the course, participants will be able to create their own drypoint prints independently in our studio. Upcoming workshops will introduce additional printmaking techniques, including Aquatint and Sugar Lift — stay tuned! Price: 110€ for the full 4-session workshop 35€ for one session Registration for full 4 - session Please email Kifan Alkarjousli 📧 kifan@pakd-gallery.com Limited spots available — be sure to secure yours early!

This week we are discussing Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie - The Thing Around Your Neck. We look forward to seeing you! If you have book suggestions, would like to vote on our next reads, or join us for additional activities, please ask someone at the meeting to add you to our WhatsApp group.

Who is in the mood for some quiet togetherness while catching up on their reading? Let’s enjoy literature or non-fiction together and come to our Reading in Companionable Silence meeting on Saturday. While Nathania is away, Miro will welcome members and there is time to socialize and to order some food or a beverage - ca. 30 min. Then we read for an hour in silence. After that - time to exchange impressions, suggestions, ask questions and generally have a good time. There might be a break in the middle in order to allow for more drinks, a bathroom break etc.

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Meeting Room 2b, 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. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The second Thursday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. First gathering is Thursday, May 11th. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.