Being Yourself in Turbulent Times - The Stuff You Can’t Bring to Parties

(donation-based)

❄️☕Everyone welcome! This is an in-person circle in Edinburgh - an informal meeting to light the spark of a community where sensitive, thoughtful people can connect, breathe out, and be honest.

ABOUT
Modern life gives us enough reasons to feel unsettled — climate anxiety, global conflict, political volatility, and the persistent sense that something in our world is shifting faster than we can process.
These feelings matter. But most of us can’t exactly bring them up at a party without someone saying, “Let’s not get depressing.”

This gathering is for those deeper conversations — held safely, inclusively, and without pressure.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A short introductory talk (15–20 mins)
  On why so many of us carry unspoken grief, tension, or fear about the world — and how sharing these feelings in community can be strengthening rather than overwhelming. I’ll draw on the work of Joanna Macy, Francis Weller, and Tara Brach, my experience as a coach guiding people who work for social or environmental change.

• A simple group exercise
  Something grounding (mindfulness-ish) to help us arrive in the space.

• Small-group sharing
  With simple guided exercises (in groups of 2) we will explore together. You’re welcome to share your experience — or to participate silently. Both are equally valid.

• The tone of the event: Honesty without dramatising, presence without fixing. This is not a space for despair spirals or venting endlessly — but equally not a place where anyone will try to “cheer you up” or rush you toward solutions. We’ll practise the art of being with what’s real, together, in a way that respects everyone’s boundaries and capacity.
  
  AFTERWARDS
  For those who feel like it, we can continue chatting in the Bridgend café for a cup of tea (+cake of course).
  
  WHO THIS IS FOR
  • People who carry worries about the state of the world
  • Anyone longing for honest conversation and gentle connection
  • Activists, carers, coaches, healers — and those who don’t fit any label at all
  

CONTRIBUTION
A suggested small contribution (5 pounds) helps cover some the venue and Meetup (app) costs. You can bring cash (preferred) or pay by transfer on the day. If money is tight, simply come — no questions asked, truly.


WHERE: Bridgend Farm, Edinburgh - more details upon registration

HOW TO REGISTER
I expect we will be somewhere between 8 and 12 people.
This is organised via my Meetup group, so if you are not on Meetup (the app) just e-mail me to say that you’re coming and if you’re bringing anyone.

I look forward to seeing you there!