Alone Among Others: an unusual social gathering about loneliness and connection

About this event

Have you ever felt alone, even when surrounded by people? We all have moments when something seems to be missing from our interactions with others. We may have friends, colleagues, family and plenty of conversations, yet still feel a certain distance. Sometimes it's difficult even to recognise or put into words. What makes us feel genuinely connected to someone? Why do some conversations stay with us, while others seem to pass without leaving much behind? And how much of this depends on the way we pay attention to ourselves and each other? 🫶 And sometimes, a good conversation with someone unexpected can make a Saturday feel quite different. These are some of the questions we'll bring to our Saturday gathering. We'll meet in a relaxed setting, share different perspectives and try a few unusual activities together. There will be conversations, practices in pairs, a short guided meditation and time to get to know one another. The idea is to spend an interesting afternoon together, notice something about ourselves and perhaps find a small change worth trying in everyday life. How the gathering unfolds: Our 90 minutes will have a gentle structure, with room for spontaneous conversations and unexpected moments. 1\. Arrive and connect We'll start with informal introductions and a light activity to get to know each other. 2\. Some unexpected questions We'll look at loneliness and connection from different angles, sharing observations and experiences from everyday life. 3\. Try something together Through simple activities in pairs and as a group, we'll experiment with listening, attention and different ways of interacting. Sometimes even a small change in how we listen or respond can make a conversation feel different. 4\. A moment to pause A short guided meditation will give us a chance to slow down, notice our own state and become more aware of what happens when we're with others. 5\. Something to take into your week Towards the end, everyone will have an opportunity to choose one small, practical experiment to try in their everyday conversations or relationships. We'll also have time for coffee, informal conversations and getting to know each other. A little more about the meeting: The atmosphere is informal and welcoming. Our facilitators will guide the activities, and everyone is free to participate at their own pace. You can come simply because the topic interests you, because you'd like to meet different people, or because you're looking for something a little unusual to do on a Saturday. You won't be expected to talk about your personal experiences of loneliness. You can share as much or as little as you wish. The gathering includes guided activities and conversation, with no previous experience needed. What to take away? You might find yourself thinking about a familiar situation differently, noticing something unexpected during an exercise, or remembering a conversation that made you curious. You'll have a chance to choose something practical to try during the following week, and perhaps return to share what happened. And you'll have spent a Saturday meeting people, exchanging perspectives and doing something together. One meeting can be the beginning of something more. About Soul Date: Soul Date is a series of community gatherings organised by C Space CIC. Each meeting brings a new theme, interesting questions, conversations and shared practices. Over time, we're creating a space where people can meet again, continue their explorations and contribute to what the community becomes. Practical information: 🗓️ When: Saturday, 12:00-1:30 PM 📍 Where: Tortello Italian Restaurant Bayswater (https://maps.app.goo.gl/SypZSvbz3isX3rp57) (next to the Lancaster Gate Underground Station) 🙌 Contribution: no fixed participation fee, suggested contribution of £3-£5 to support C Space CIC's community activities. ☕️ Food and drinks are available to purchase at the restaurant, if you like. You're welcome to come on your own or wit