Because we all need somewhere to slow down. Join gentle movement, a seasonal shared meal and guided reflection in a small, supportive group.

AUTUMN GATHERINGS

Movement • Lunch • Connection

Because we all need somewhere to slow down.

A gently held seasonal gathering, led by three experienced facilitators, in London to step out of the everyday rush.

Take time for yourself this autumn. Across three sessions, you’ll experience gentle movement, a freshly prepared seasonal meal around a shared table, and guided reflection in a small, supportive group.

We meet in the bright Harriet Delph Event Room at Abney Park (Stoke Newington), opening onto the gardens and surrounded by the quiet beauty of the park.

The gathering unfolds through

Gentle Movement

Begin with a restorative movement practice inspired by yoga and qigong, designed to help you arrive, release tension and reconnect with your body. Drawing on trauma-informed practice, mindfulness and myofascial release, the session offers a gentle way to restore balance, settle the nervous system and cultivate a sense of ease.

Seasonal Table

Gather around a freshly prepared seasonal meal celebrating simple, nourishing ingredients. Enjoy vibrant salads, artisan sourdough, homemade dishes and dessert, thoughtfully prepared by Kitchen Community, one of Hackney's leading community catering organisations.

Guided Reflection

Led by an experienced psychologist and psychotherapist, this gentle reflective practice offers space to pause, notice and explore your experience through guided prompts and conversation. There is no pressure to share - simply an opportunity to reflect, listen and connect in a supportive group.

Who this is for

Anyone looking for rest, connection and belonging this autumn. Suitable for all levels; no prior experience needed.

Before you attend:

The movement practice is gentle but is not medical treatment, physiotherapy or psychotherapy. The guided reflection is a reflective group practice and is not therapy or a substitute for individual psychological support.

Please listen to your body, work within your own limits, and modify or stop any movement whenever you need to. You are welcome to rest or opt out of any activity at any time.

If you have an injury, health condition, are pregnant, or have any concerns about taking part, please consult an appropriate healthcare professional beforehand and let us know of anything relevant to your participation.

By attending, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and take responsibility for your own wellbeing and physical limits during the session.

Autumn Gatherings Refund Policy

Tickets are non-refundable once purchased, as places are limited and prepared for in advance. If you can no longer attend, you may transfer your place to someone else by contacting us in advance. If we cancel an event, you will receive a full refund.

Meet your hosts

Deniz C. Erkan

Kitchen Community Collective

Deniz is co-founder of Kitchen Community Collective, one of Hackney's leading community catering organisations. Her work brings people together through seasonal food, cultural exchange and shared meals, celebrating the power of hospitality to foster connection and belonging.

https://www.kitchencommunity.co.uk

Çiğdem Taş

Psychologist | BACP Accredited Psychotherapist

Çiğdem is a psychologist, supervisor, and group facilitator with over 20 years' experience. Having worked extensively within the NHS and charity sector alongside her private practice, she creates thoughtful, compassionate spaces where people can pause, reflect and connect with themselves and others.

https://www.talkandheal.co.uk/

Şebnem Uğural

Trauma-Informed Movement & Mindfulness

Şebnem is a trauma-informed movement facilitator, Reiki practioner and mindfulness coach with over 15 years' experience supporting wellbeing across NHS, community and women's services. Her work weaves together yoga, qigong-inspired movement, breath, mindfulness and body awareness to help people reconnect with themselves through compassionate, embodied practice.

https://www.sebnemugural.com/

Description supplied by the event organiser.