Zen Meditation

For our next hike we'll be following a beautiful 9.5km route starting at Soest-Zuid train station and ending at Amersfoort Central Station. On the way we'll pass by the Soesterduinen dunes and the Birkhoven forest. Will you join? Utrecht Hiking Community aims to organise one hike per month in the Utrecht Region. Anyone is welcome to join, no matter whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, a local or an expat, a professional or a student, as long as you bring a good mood. We are not about fast hiking, but about social hiking: being active, exploring places, meeting like-minded people and just generally having a fun walk. We'll be starting from Soest-Zuid train station at 10.30AM. This time we won't be following a circular route, which means we won't end at our starting point, but we'll end at Amersfoort Central Station instead. Those who want to return to Soest-Zuid station afterwards to get back to their car, can take bus 70 from Amersfoort, which is going every 15 minutes. Please try to arrive to Soest-Zuid on time. We'll start our hike at 10.30AM and won't let the whole group wait for you in case you're arriving later. Only in case the train scheduled to arrive at 10.24AM has some delay, we'll wait for that train to arrive. If you're arriving after we have departed, you can send a message on WhatsApp to +31621177691, so we can share our location with you and you can try to catch up with us. Soest-Zuid station has a toilet, but please don't count on it to work. When checking the route, it was closed. On the way there are no public toilets, so please use a restroom before you arrive. The route is going over both paved and unpaved roads and we'll even be walking through the sand of the Soesterduinen dunes for a bit (not for long, as it's harder to walk through the sand than on the paths). Please wear good shoes, bring something to drink for on the way and use SPF if it'll be a sunny day Dogs are allowed on the route, but need to be kept on a leash on parts of the route. After the walk, those who want can join for lunch/drinks in the center of Amersfoort. This is not directly next to Amersfoort Central Station, but at a distance of another 15-20 minutes of walking. Since we do make some costs while organising our hikes (MeetUp subscription, travel expenses), a small donation would be very much appreciated. You can do so by following this link: https://www.ing.nl/payreq/m/?trxid=s9tT34cUyD97YuSHhIYbTIqN4LfxLAn9 If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. See you on Saturday 9th of May at Soest-Zuid train station!

**For this course you need to register via our website:** https://www.maitreya.nl/nl/programma/idmt-year-three-the-radiant-ground-emptiness-and-buddha-nature-1/2026-02-07. (both online and at our center when Ven. Gendun is in The Netherlands). This season (jan-jul) is an invitation to let the view of emptiness infuse your practice—not as abstract philosophy, but as living experience: clear, liberating, and rooted in compassion. Our aim is not to gather concepts, but to transform how we see and relate to the world. Through study, reflection, and meditation, we learn to meet life with less grasping, more openness—and a heart that naturally responds with wisdom and care, held by the strength of community. **Introduction to IDMT** Meditation is essential for personal transformation and a crucial complement to Buddhist studies. This 4-year online course provides students with long term, in-depth support in their meditative development. This weekly course will offer: * Authentic traditional instructions, in contemporary language, aimed at providing a comprehensive set of meditation tools for students to transform their knowledge of the Dharma into personal experience. * Traditional and modern theories on supplementary topics such as models of healthy psychological and spiritual development, ritual, narrative, ethics, and social engagement. * An international community of meditators, online and live.

## Connect & Grow onder begeleiding van Pauline van Aken, auteur, spreker en trainer... ## Voel je dat je hoofd vaak te “vol” zit en heb je behoefte aan meer rust én echte gevoelsmensen om je heen in de natuur? ## Tijdens deze 1e Connect & Grow sessie, stap je even uit de drukte van alledag en kom je samen met een groep bewuste en gelijkgestemden. Een laagdrempelige, ontspannen meeting waarbij je kunt 'zijn' en we ook, als het weer het toelaat, een mooie wandeling maken. We ont-moeten, verbinden en doen tussentijdse korte, praktische oefeningen, waarbij je voelt dat je hoofd even met 'vakantie' is. De meeting vindt plaats in de natuur bij de Hoorneboegse Heide. Specifieke meetingpoint: Brasserie Zonnestraal op de parkeerplaats rechts van de zij ingang. Bij minder goed weer verzamelen we binnen in de Brasserie Zonnestraal. Wil je hierbij zijn, stuur dan een mailtje met je naam en mobiele nummer + de datum (zaterdag 9 mei) naar: info@paulinevanaken.nl Check ook even de site: Paulinevanaken.nl zodat je weet hoe ik eruit zie en wellicht kan ik je alvast inspireren met wat ik deel in verschillende podcasts en blogs. De kosten: €27,00 p.p. inclusief 't boek: VOEL, *terug in contact met jezelf,* exclusief drankjes en versnaperingen die bij de Brasserie mogelijk zijn om te bestellen. Ik kijk ernaar uit je te ontmoeten. Lieve groet, Pauline

This circular walk begins at Nijmegen Heyendaal train station and takes us through some of the leafiest parts of south and east Nijmegen. We’ll take in a tranquil botanical garden, walk through some lovely parks and forests and go uphill to Kops Plateau where we can get a great view of the Ooij polder (where we went on the previous walk). We can stop around half way for food/drinks at the Tantje Koosje. The walk features some good quality paths but there also patches through forests etc with uneven ground, so it is recommended to wear sturdy walking shoes. As always, remember to bring water and maybe some snacks. Trains go from Nijmegen Centraal to Heyendaal every 30 minutes leaving at 8 and 38 minutes past the hour. Journey time is 4 minutes. Buses 9, 10 and 15 also stop at the station. \*\* Please keep your RSVP up to date - walks tend to get full so if your plans change please change your RSVP to No and give someone else the chance to join \*\*

Kom gezellig een middag samen Warhammer of D&D miniaturen schilderen! We gaan schilderen in de Nieuwe Bibliotheek Almere in Almere-Stad: vandaag in de Jongerenafdeling. Wij (de lokale Warhammer club Warmere) zorgen voor alle benodigde materialen zodat je je creativiteit de vrije loop kunt laten. Of je nu een ervaren schilder bent of een beginner, deze meetup is de perfecte gelegenheid om nieuwe technieken te leren, tips uit te wisselen en in contact te komen met de lokale hobby- en gaming communities: Warmere als je Warhammer 40k of Age of Sigmar speelt, of GameMere voor D&D of bordspellen! Neem je eigen materialen mee of gebruik mijn verf en materialen. Als je een miniatuurtje nodig hebt, kun je er die dag een kopen of je kan er gratis eentje kiezen uit de gedoneerde miniatuurtjes, met dank aan clubgenoten van Warmere en www.restorehammer.eu ! Leeftijd: 12+ Let op: Deze meetup vindt plaats in een bibliotheek tijdens openingstijden. Houd rekening met andere bezoekers en materialen. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for an afternoon of painting Warhammer or D&D miniatures alongside fellow enthusiasts! Hosted at de Nieuwe Bibliotheek Almere in Almere-Stad: today in de Jongerenafdeling. We (the local Warhammer club Warmere) will provide all necessary materials for you to unleash your creativity. Whether you are a seasoned painter or a beginner, this meetup is the perfect opportunity to learn new techniques, share tips, and connect with the local hobby and gaming communities: Warmere if you like Warhammer 40k or Age of Sigmar, or GameMere if you like D&D or boardgames! Bring your own materials, or use my paint and materials. If you need a miniature you can buy one, or choose one for free from the donated miniatures, thanks to members of Warmere and www.restorehammer.eu ! Age: 12+ Take notice: This meetup takes place in a library during business hours. Mind the other patrons and materials.

🌿🥾 Hello Hikers! Ready for a peaceful, classically Dutch escape? We’re hiking the **NS-Wandeling Gein en Vecht**, a stunning 14 km point-to-point trail from Abcoude → Weesp. This path follows the winding Gein river and feels like stepping directly into a 17th-century landscape painting. 🎨✨ Expect calm waters, historic windmills, and traditional houseboats as we wander through the lush meadows of the Dutch countryside. We’ll finish in the charming fortified town of Weesp, perfect for a celebratory post-hike drink! 📍 Start: Abcoude Station ⏰ When: Saturday\, 9 May \| Hike starts 10:45 AM \(please arrive 10–15 min early to gear up\!\) We’ll wait 15 minutes for everyone (11:00 AM) and then share our live location in the WhatsApp group for anyone joining late. 🥾 Distance: 14 km 👀 What to Expect • The winding River Gein, one of the most photographed rivers in the NL • Iconic Dutch windmills and historic pumping stations • Fort Nigtevecht, part of the Defense Line of Amsterdam (UNESCO site) • Wide-open meadow views and charming river-side houseboats • Finish in the scenic town of Weesp, famous for its canals and breweries • Plenty of "Golden Age" photo opportunities along the water Getting there: • Train to Abcoude Station (easy connection from Amsterdam/Utrecht) • The hike ends at Weesp Station, where you can take a direct train back 🎒 What to Bring • Comfortable hiking shoes • Plenty of water • Snacks and a light lunch • A windbreaker or waterproof jacket (it can get breezy by the water!) ⚠️ **Disclaimers** * Everyone is responsible for their own safety * The organizer is not responsible for personal injuries, transportation issues, health problems, loss, or damage * Hike at your own pace; the trail can be slippery after rain – wear proper footwear 📲 WhatsApp group for updates & coordination: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CX8pZUrRBqgDtX6BZGqOJH?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CX8pZUrRBqgDtX6BZGqOJH?mode=gi_t) 🔗 Join our WhatsApp group for future events: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMIoNQ1ovkO4sYEkWPZP92?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMIoNQ1ovkO4sYEkWPZP92?mode=gi_t) 📸 Instagram to share photos: [https://www.instagram.com/arezoo_hike?utm_source=qr](https://www.instagram.com/arezoo_hike?utm_source=qr) Let’s hike, soak in the tranquility of the river, and toast to a great day in Weesp! 🐄🚲✨

Come and join us for an evening of Buddhist meditation with like-minded people. The doors open at 7:00 PM, and meditation begins promptly at 7:15 PM. The meditation will last between 30 to 40 minutes, followed by tea and biscuits for anyone who would like to stay and chat. On some evenings, there will also be a short Dharma talk to provide some Buddhist context. The meditation space is down at the canal. To get there, you can take the stairs down. The meditation is offered on a donation basis. See our [website](https://utrechtbuddhistcentre.nl/) for more information.

**Zondag 10 mei presenteert OPA een boekpresentatie voor Dingen doen denken, het nieuwe boek van auteur Jeroen van den Eijnde en ontwerper Jannie Guo.** Dingen doen denken bevat teksten die Van den Eijnde schreef tussen 1994 en 2025, van persoonlijke observaties tot bijdragen aan vak en publieksboeken over design en ontwerpend onderzoek. Kunstenaar en ontwerper Jannie Guo heeft het boek vormgegeven. Beiden verzorgen een presentatie met aandacht voor de teksten van Jeroen en het ontwerp van Jannie. Walter Jansen van Het Colofon gaat met hen in gesprek. Graag aanmelden via info@hetcolofon.nl met de vermelding van het aantal personen.

* We **start at 11:15** at Raadhuisplein 1, 3951 XT Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/WogeofsFNuDyBgrN9 * Length: \~16.6 km (4 - 5 hr hiking) * What to bring: lunch, water, snack. * For whom: As always, sporty folks that like to combine social event with being active in nature. **Getting there by Train:** * To train station: Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/UkHaTRXZZW9zG3dn9 **Getting there by Car:** * Parking in the streets close to: Raadhuisplein 1, 3951 XT Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/WogeofsFNuDyBgrN9 **Note:** * Please **pay a small fee (3 euro)** to help us cover the (increased) yearly Meetup contribution of 240 euro. We'll ask you to pay before the start of the hike (can be on the day itself). No refunds, but in the unlikely event that hike would be cancelled and you already paid, you don't need to pay for your next hike. Thank you so much! Use the **safe link** here: https://betaalverzoek.rabobank.nl/betaalverzoek/?id=cqlYWv_MTpSjp2VkROXWhA * Keep in mind that the hike can be canceled when the weather is very bad (**always check the event before you go**). * If you RSVP 'yes' we expect you to show-up. Please do not cancel less than 24 hours before the hike. **No-shows** will lead to your removal from the group. Thanks for the understanding. * By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

Join us for a relaxed and friendly matcha tasting meetup. I’ll bring matcha for everyone to try, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, including alcohol if you like. This is a casual event for meeting new people, enjoying Japanese tea culture, and spending a cozy afternoon together. Beginners are very welcome. Free to join.

Tickets may be purchased here: https://hipsy.nl/event/202332-authentic-dating-45-tot-65-jaar After the huge success and sold-out editions our last Authentic Dating events, we're back with a new edition! And this time a 45+ event <3! What to expect We offer playful ways of interacting, partly with a soft, sensory approach and partly through meditative presence. You’ll skip the superficial small talk and learn how to connect in an open, honest, and playful way. During this event, we combine dating with light, conscious touch and body-based exercises. You’ll learn to better feel and communicate your desires and boundaries, while discovering whether there’s a genuine connection. Throughout the afternoon, you’ll move through a series of carefully guided encounters. These experiences help you show up as your true self, communicate openly, and explore different forms of connection. During this gathering, we use accessible, playful, and partly body-oriented exercises to create connection — with yourself and with others. We alternate between working with the whole group and in smaller groups, allowing space for both depth and lightness. We will also offer dating opportunities with 1 on 1 exercises. By the end of the day, you’ll go home feeling connected, inspired, and equipped with practical tools you can apply in your everyday (dating) life. Afterwards, participants will have gotten to know each other in an open, playful, and authentic way, with meaningful — and possibly romantic — connections emerging. Practicalities Date: Sunday, May 10th, 2026 Time: doors open at 12:45, start 13:00 (we start on time; doors close shortly after) Participants: max. 26 Age: 45–65 years Dress code: festive and authentic — dress as you would for a fun date or special occasion. Health: if you’re not feeling well, please stay home out of care for yourself and others. Inclusivity: everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Good to know - The afternoon is guided in a safe and respectful setting - You always choose who you want to do exercises with - You can set your boundaries at any time - We facilitate the experience but do not actively matchmake - The main language is Dutch, but you’re welcome to speak English during exercises if preferred - Snacks and drinks are provided (vegan-friendly)

Hi everyone! With good weather present, let’s get together for a picnic-themed meetup! In the spirit of BYO things, feel free to join with food, drinks, blankets to lie down on, games, or just good vibes. If the weather allows and people are up for it, there’s always the possibility of follow-up drinks later that day. Exact Location to meet: Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/6SbDVFQJdP1WWVdG8 More tips on how to find the group will follow in the comments on the day of the meetup. Hope to see you there! :) In case of bad (NL) weather, the Picnic might be moved to another day.

**We have limited space at the café, so if you've RSVPd and can't make it, please cancel as early as possible so another person can join!** Join in for a morning of crafting & chatting over a drink. Just bring your own project and payment for drinks. Meet fellow crafting enthusiasts, whether it's knitting, crocheting, stitching, origami, or something more unique! We talk about our projects, exchange tipps, but also just get to know each other and enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning in good company. We now also have a WhatsApp group, where we want to organise get-togethers and other events. Ask one of the organisers at the next Meetup you join for more information and access.

This is an **event at 1801 Robert Fulton Dr., Reston, VA 20191** (All participants must have RSVP'd). We continue exploring the foundational Buddhist sutra: the **Heart Sutra**. This the shortest sutra but the most fundamental. Our meeting schedule will be as follows: * **40 minutes:** Sitting meditation * **5 minutes:** Break * **45 minutes:** Group discussion of the Heart Sutra. During the sitting meditation session, we will provide you with a non-roller chair (or feel free to bring in your own meditation pad/pillow). If you are a first timer, detailed instructions will be provided when you are here at 1801 Robert Fulton Drive).

Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.

Join us every Thursday for Meditation and Chanting. No prior experience required, and all are welcome.

Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community. We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years. **Schedule** * Please arrive by **6:45 pm** to settle in * First bell rings at **7 pm sharp** *(If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell.* *Someone will greet you)* * 25 minutes of silent sitting * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk * 5 minutes of walking meditation * 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting * We close with tea and informal conversation On **first Sundays**, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge. **Location** Our Zendo is located in the **back** of Rockville United Church: [355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AABDrCx3sHvBPVBf9) After parking in front, please do **not** enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors. Guiding map: [https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy](https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy) **Who we are** [Joyful Mind Zen Community ](https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/)offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo. If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.

Join us for an enlightening evening at the Meditation Museum - Virginia, where we delve into the transformative power of forgiveness. Our special guest, Lama Tashi, renowned spiritual leader, will guide us through the paths of self-discovery and healing. ***[Lama Tashi Norbu](http://www.lamatashinorbu.org/ "http://www.lamatashinorbu.org/")*** *is a revered Tibetan Buddhist Monk and artist known for blending traditional and contemporary art. Ordained by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche, he worked as a Thangka Painter for the 14th Dalai Lama before studying contemporary art in the West. Tashi uses his art to promote an understanding of Buddhism and Tibetan culture. He also engages in meditation, live painting, sand mandala creation, and tattooing. He founded the Museum of Contemporary Tibetan Art in the Netherlands and advocates for women's rights in Tibet. His work is internationally recognized, with exhibitions in numerous galleries and museums. His teachings, rooted in the compassionate philosophy of Buddhism, offer profound insights into the art of forgiveness and letting go.* This event is not just a talk, but a transformative experience. Participants will engage in an artistic interactive session, chanting, and guided meditation. Sat., May 9th, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm. Held at Brahma Kumaris, 14020 Thunderbolt Pl, Suite 200, 2nd Floor, Chantilly, VA. Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/f7lgD](https://shorturl.at/f7lgD)

Another unique experience coming your way… An Aerial Soundscape on silk hammocks Drift into your own version of Cloud Nine as you’re gently held, supported, and immersed in soothing sounds. This makes such a beautiful Mother’s Day gift for all the nurturing mothering figures in your life (including you) **Location**: @mindshiftgym Reston VA **Date**: Saturday\, May 30th \| 4:30 PM Come for a deeply relaxing, magical experience filled with ease, peace, and that “I didn’t know I needed this” kind of reset. **Price** $45 pp For more info contact Paloma at mindbodypaloma.gmail.com

**Atisha: 7-doors to Meditation: Osho Meditation Retreat** *Osho Nirvana is delighted to invite you to this deep inner exploration and meditation retreat with Videha.* Based on “The Book of Wisdom”, Osho’s commentary on Atisha teaching “Seven Points of Mind Training” These ‘Seven Points of Mind Training’ are the fundamental teaching that Atisha gave to Tibet. They are of immense value. They are the whole of religion condensed. They are like seeds, but they contain the infinite. The moment you move into the statements deeply, when you contemplate and meditate and start experimenting with them, you will be surprised, you will be going into the greatest adventure of your life… *“…Meditate on Atisha, listen to His advice; they are of immense value. It is not a philosophy, it is a manual to discipline yourself, it is a manual of inner transformation. …These sutras are golden. Keep them in your heart; they will nourish you, they will strengthen you, they will transform you. … It is the teaching that can help you grow into Wisdom.”* Osho **Some of the main topics in this retreat** * The Preliminaries * Atisha Meditation, “Tong-Len” (“Giving and Taking” in Tibetan), also known as “Heart Meditation.” * The arising of Bodhicitta * The base of mind functioning and the illusion of the ego * The four bodies (Kaya) * The essential meaning of witnessing * The difficulties and fundamental points of the awareness process * The meaning of “Compassion.” * The meaning of “Wisdom.” * The transcendental function of the five senses * The “Three principal causes” and “The three treasures.” * The authentic meaning of “Freedom.” **About Videha:** Osho disciple since 1980. Initiated into the Mevlevi Sufi Order of Konya (“The Whirling Dervishes”), Videha integrates the Sufi Path into Osho’s vision and love. For years as a Zazen practitioner, he has traveled and trained in Turkey, Mongolia, China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, India, Central Asia, and Tibet, where he received many initiations. He has been leading groups, seminars, camps, and meditation retreats around the world for more than 35 years, uniting the path of Love with the path of Meditation. ​ **How to Participate?** Dates: May 9 (7:30 PM) – 16 (12:30 PM), 2026 Register [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJdX8kHAuDzKWZnNEx5EpUGxOpp1oEBMa5wtzKKOyV-cLqKQ/viewform?usp=dialog) Participation Contribution: $849 Link to pay: [https://bit.ly/atisha2026tickets](https://bit.ly/atisha2026tickets) (on the final page, for platform support fees (they are optional), select “other” and type 0) **Full participation is required!**