Last Thursday evening, the lights in the library room were dimmed, the noise of the city left at the door, and a circle of cushions awaited curious members ready to explore something a little outside their usual rhythm: stillness.
We welcomed mindfulness coach Leona Vervain, known for her grounded, no-nonsense approach to meditation and breathwork. With a background in neuroscience and a decade of experience leading retreats across Europe, Leona guided us through a 90-minute session called “The Art of the Pause.”
The Power of Presence
The evening began not with silence, but with laughter, as Leona shared her own struggles with slowing down in a world that celebrates speed. “I used to think productivity was my personality,” she said. “Then I burned out—and found that what I’d been avoiding all along was silence.”
What followed was a simple yet powerful practice: guided breathing, a short seated meditation, and a few gentle exercises to reconnect with the body. No incense. No awkward chants. Just presence.
“I didn’t expect to feel such a shift after only a few breaths,” said member Sophie L.
“It was like someone turned the volume down on my brain. I walked out feeling 10 pounds lighter.”
Real Conversations, Real Connection
After the session, members gathered over herbal tea and small bites in the lounge. What was striking wasn’t just how calm the room felt—it was how open everyone became.
Conversations that began with “How did that feel for you?” quickly turned into meaningful discussions about boundaries, burnout, and balance.
“I came because I was curious. I left with a new perspective—and three great book recommendations,” said Marc T., a longtime member.
“There was something healing about seeing other people wrestle with the same things I do,” added Elena M. “It made me feel less alone.”
Slowness is a Skill
What this evening reminded us is that slowness isn’t laziness—it’s a skill. One we rarely practice, and yet deeply need. In the midst of full calendars and constant noise, it was refreshing to press pause, not just individually, but together.
Events like these are part of The Clubhouse’s ongoing intention to offer not just entertainment, but nourishment—for the mind, body, and spirit.
We’re grateful to Leona for holding such a safe, welcoming space—and to every member who showed up with openness and intention.
Next up: Stay tuned for our Silent Mornings pilot sessions launching in June—quiet co-working, guided journaling, and intentional starts to the day.
Because sometimes the most powerful thing you can do… is breathe.