Primarily the Eudaimonia society is a non-profit organization, which provides a place for like minded individuals to come together. In coming together, we hope members can learn from each other, challenge each others' ways of thinking constructively, provide support for each other in achieving one's goals and promote helpful ways of thinking. The activities that we do as a society include:
- Meditation sessions
- Group walks
- Talks on various topics from members of the society
- Runs
- Outdoor exercise sessions
- Day trips
However, this is not an exhaustive list and the society will engage in any enriching activity that is in line with Eudaimonia. Although where possible all activities will be completely free of charge, as some activities incur costs, such as hiring a venue, paying for insurance, or travel costs, some activities may require upfront payment. Where this is the case will be outlined clearly along with an exact breakdown of any costs.
In addition for being a medium for people to come together, we also hope to provide resources that fellow members have found valuable in their journeys, as of yet. The resources we provide are:
- Recommended reading lists for the various facets of life
- Exercise plans
- Blog posts
- Find a buddy system
Very important to note is that the Eudaimonia society has no direct religious or political affiliations or agenda but simultaneously is accepting of all individuals and accepting of open, respectful dialogue surrounding political and religious matters. Being able to converse, be friends with, and ultimately live with, people of different opinion, ways of thinking, cultural norms and belief systems, harmoniously and peacefully is a principal value of the Eudaimonia Society.
Why not just 'The Happiness Society'?
I don't believe that the term 'happiness' conveys the purpose of this society, nor does it have wholly 'useful' connotations. Often times happiness is seen as just an emotional state, one that is fleeting. Happiness can sometimes be shallow and rely on short term measures. It seems to me that someone can be really 'happy' on a day to day basis but not be living a life which is truly fulfilling for them. Someone who doesn't have any major qualms or gripes with their life may not be as healthy as they could reasonably be, or as calm and at peace as they could be, whilst this person would still be considered 'happy' by normal standards. Someone may be happy, in and of themselves, but they aren't helping other people in any way, even though doing so comes at no unreasonable cost to them. Someone may believe that they are 'happy' but due to a lack of experience, perspective, or, very simply, understanding of what is possible, not be tapping in to their potential of emotional experiences. Is this all we should aim for?
Maybe we should aim to get as much out of life as possible in a balanced and calm way whilst not damaging the lives of others or otherwise causing suffering. Maybe we should sometimes be willing to look past the existence (or lack thereof) any transitory, pleasant emotional states pertaining to happiness. Maybe we should be willing to question, as individuals and a collective, our current frameworks surrounding what internal and external metrics we use to measure our success. Maybe we should thrive for Eudaimonia...
What are our values?
Primarily, living lives which don't impede on the lives of others, where reasonably possible, trumps all other values.
Promoting a life free of undue, negative judgement and ridicule of others, on both a small and large scale, is a key aim of the Eudaimonia Society. Whilst seeing reality for 'as it is' is important, and sometimes this may lead to not totally 'positive' evaluations ( this being why we tend to stray away from a positive and negative view of the world), putting others down in any way shape or form, especially 'for the sake of it' is not conducive to Eudaimonia as we see it.
Acknowledging some situations as being more favorable than others and then logically working towards these situations, ongoingly, is how we believe a life should be lived in accordance with Eudaimonia. We then would go on to categorize these situations as being more favorable if they promote states of being which foster good health, education, calmness, individual liberties, creativity and growth.
In achieving these favorable situations we promote meditation and mindfulness, which calms the brain, making it more cohesive and efficient. By eating a balanced diet of mostly whole, plant-based foods the body can thrive, with minimal inflammation, without harming other beings in the process. By exercising regularly, performing resistance exercises and cardiovascular exercise, the body can be fit and healthy so that it assists, not burdens. By using your time effectively and mindfully you can develop skills and qualities, and gain knowledge, which can be used for the betterment of yourself and others. The Eudaimonia society will help you achieve these modalities.
Despite these values perhaps seeming vague or aloof they sum up, as far as where is possible, what the Eudaimonia Society is and subsequently, what you stand to gain from joining it.
And finally, the Eudaimonia Society does not necessarily condone or promote any 'radical' actions or views, which diametrically oppose modern society, and likewise is not a part of any movements of this kind. We simply want to help people: 'evolution not revolution.'
Thank you for reading and I wish you all the best on your journey - Lucas
