If you haven’t already checked it out, Rest Less Events is our virtual community and events platform. All sessions are run through Zoom and cover a vast range of topics.
With around 100 monthly events, you’ll hopefully find something to pique your interest. Alongside our regular sessions, there’s plenty to help you put your best foot forward this year – from exercise classes to digital decluttering workshops.
Here are some of the most exciting events coming up in January.
1. Hong Kong – A Modern City Built on Superstition
When? Thursday 2nd at 11:30am
Join host Sandy for this unique look at one of the world’s true megalopolises: Hong Kong. She’ll introduce us to the Chinese practice of aligning buildings for good luck – and how feng shui masters are employed to help shape the city.
2. Libraries of the World
When? Thursday 2nd at 4:00pm
Seasoned adventurer Sue Ablett is shaking things up in 2025 with her travel talks with a twist, starting with this tour of fascinating libraries worldwide.
Beginning at Canada’s (and possibly the world’s) smallest library, Sue will take us on a globetrotting literary journey – from the most remote libraries to the quirkiest.
3. Mindful Eating
When? Friday 3rd at 2:30pm
As Claire, host of this fantastic new event says, “Mindful eating is about using mindfulness to reach a state of full attention to your experiences, cravings, and physical cues when eating.” It can help us to not only eat healthier but also find more enjoyment in every meal.
For more information, check out our beginners’ guides to mindfulness and mindful eating.
4. Portland: Artsy, Quirky, and Historic
When? Friday 3rd at 7:00pm
From its artistic centre to the picturesque natural surroundings, Portland in America’s Pacific Northwest is well worth a visit – so why not take a tour from the comfort of your home with this next event?
U.S. native Kelsey leads us through this dynamic trip. Expect fascinating historic spots, stunning French Renaissance-style architecture, sweeping coastal scenery, the world’s largest independent bookshop, and much more.
5. A Century of Dining with Great Writers
When? Mondays 6th and 20th at 4:00pm
Looking through the lens of literature, this seven-part series examines how and what our recent ancestors grew, cooked, and ate.
Starting with the Edwardians, when the rich dined to excess while the poor scraped together scraps, and finishing with how sci-fi depicts the future of eating, this series is an unmissable treat for food and history fans.
6. Floriography: The Secret Language of Flowers
When? Tuesday 7th 11:30am
This next talk from art therapist and printmaker, Sarah, explores floriography: the art of communicating by using and arranging flowers.
Throughout the session, we’ll look at the symbolic meanings of different plants and how they’ve changed over time – from ancient Greece to modern times. Sarah will also share some of her own floral lino prints to help us gain a fresh perspective on floriography.
7. Self-Compassion and Mindfulness: Tools for Wellbeing
When? Tuesdays at 1:00pm
Many of us don’t show ourselves the same patience and understanding that we show others. But self-compassion can be a valuable tool for a happier, healthier life.
Based on the groundbreaking ‘Mindful Self-Compassion’ (MSC) course, this six-part series aims to help participants learn the skill of self-compassion through guided meditations, informal exercises, and discussions.
8. For Your Ears Only: A Journey Through the Music of James Bond
What? Tuesdays 7th and 14th at 4:00pm
This two-part series from real-life composer for the screen Amit Sen looks at the music behind your favourite James Bond adventures.
Part one dives into the scores of the classic Bond era – from Connery to Brosnan – and will discuss the purpose and impact of music in film.
Next, part two focuses on the Daniel Craig days – when Bond was transformed from a two-dimensional superhero to a multi-layered character with doubts and dilemmas – and how music played a role in this reimagining.
9. Retirement planning: Key pensions questions answered
What? Wednesday 8th at 11:30am
Do you know whether you’re on track to retire comfortably, or how you plan to take an income from your pension? We’re delighted to introduce our first Retirement Planning event with Nishma Waite, a Chartered Financial Planner at Fidelius, a well-established, FCA-regulated firm of advisors who we’ve partnered with to provide our members with financial advice.
Whilst we won’t be able to provide specific financial advice during the event, we hope to address some of the main issues that might be preventing your retirement savings from working as hard as they possibly can for you. Whether you want to know what the options are when it comes to taking an income from your pension, or how pension withdrawals are taxed, we’ve got it covered.
10. Phone Photography Editing
When? Wednesday 8th and Friday 31st at 2:30pm
Join professional fine art photographer Janine Kilroe for this two-part workshop aimed at those wanting to edit and enhance snaps on their phone.
Over the sessions, participants will learn the basics of the free and versatile editing app Snapseed to create interesting and creative images. They’ll also get the chance to practice their skills and share their creations on the Rest Less Photographers Club group for discussion.
11. Digital Declutter
When? Wednesday 8th at 4:00pm
Just like our living spaces, sometimes our digital spaces can become cluttered, making us feel overwhelmed. This is particularly true of things like photographs and contacts that we no longer want/need.
In these sessions – brought to you by the Three Discovery Team – you’ll learn how to tidy up the information on your smartphone and tablet, making them simple and stress-free to use.
For more information, take a look at our article: 10 tips for a digital declutter.
12. The Brontës – Triumph and Torment: A Six-Part Series
When? Thursdays from the 9th at 11:30am
This January, lecturer Margaret will investigate this famous literary family. As well as sisters Charlotte, Emily, and Anne, the father of the Brontë clan and their less-known brother, Branwell, also published writings.
Through these six parts, Margaret will try to uncover why this family were so talented and productive – and explore some of the historical and cultural contexts that influenced them.
13. The Unbelievable Truth – Wildlife Stories That Have to be Seen to be Believed
When? Thursday 9th at 4:00pm
Throughout his career, former vet turned wildlife photographer Stephen has collected many astounding animal stories – from rabbits burying their offspring underground to elephants travelling through tunnels to mine salt. And, in this one-off event, he’ll share some of his highlights.
14. AI for Beginners: It’s Easier Than You Think
When? Friday 10th at 11:30am
Join Vicky Cairne – creator of the YouTube channel ‘3A AI: AI for Third Agers’ – for this beginner-friendly look into the emerging world of AI. You’ll learn how large language models like ChatGPT can be useful in many aspects of life – from helping you stay organised to learning new things.
This event will also show you how to set up a free ChatGPT account, so you can start unlocking the secrets of AI.
To learn more, check out our article: 7 incredible things AI can already do for us.
15. Vegan Winter Warmers
When? Mondays 13th and 27th at 2:30pm
Looking for some new recipes to warm your soul as the colder months roll on? This winter, chef Shamal Kumal will walk us through how to make some comforting vegan classics – like vegan bolognese – and some more unique meals like butter bean cassoulet with roast pumpkin.
Check out the dishes and recipe lists using the button below.
16. Stories from English Cathedrals
When? Tuesdays 14th and 21st at 11:30am
Regal, intricate, and dazzling, our cathedrals are one of the UK’s most treasured pieces of heritage. But there’s much more to them than aesthetic appeal.
In this pair of talks, host Ian unravels the storied histories behind two cathedrals (Hereford and Coventry). We’ll discover tales of controversial medieval bishops, hidden treasures, and what happened to Coventry Cathedral in World War 2.
17. Medicines and Two Thousand Miles Across Africa
When? Wednesday 15th at 2:30pm
Former CEO of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Jeremy Holmes joins us this month to talk about some of the healthcare challenges faced by East Africa. These include the rise of conditions like heart disease and cancer due to more people adopting Western lifestyles and a drastic shortage of imported medicines.
This event is sure to offer a fascinating perspective on the different challenges faced by people around the world.
18. The Psychology of Searching
When? Thursday 16th at 4:00pm
Many of us enjoy delving into our ancestry and compiling family trees, but have you ever stopped to consider why?
This talk from Dr. Penny Walters asks the question: are you searching for who your ancestors were or who you are? It’ll uncover the psychological explanations for why we’re interested in our family’s history – touching on topics like tribal territory, the notion of homelands, and inherited trauma.
19. Activating Basic Feng Shui: 6-week course
When? Fridays from 17th at 11:30am
If you’re looking to get the most out of your living space in 2025, why not check out this six-part course on feng shui? This millennia-old design practice aims to help you foster harmony and balance for more positivity and comfort.
20. Horoscope to Telescope
When? Tuesday 21st at 4:00pm
While the terms astrology and astronomy are often mixed up, they refer to two completely different practices. Astrology is the non-scientific practice of using the movements of planets and stars to predict and explain events on Earth, and astronomy is the scientific study of the universe beyond the limits of our planet’s atmosphere.
Despite their differences, these two practices used to be studied side by side, until astronomy was deemed unscientific circa 1700. This talk from astronomer Martin delves into how these subjects, once so close, have diverged.
21. How to Kickstart Good Habits to Power Up Your Menopause!
When? Tuesday 21st at 7:30pm
This next event from My Menopause Centre is aimed at helping anyone going through menopause to make meaningful changes to improve their wellbeing in the new year.
Throughout the hour, a panel of experts will discuss topics like the impact of menopause on wellbeing, hormone replacement therapy, and the million-dollar question: how to stay motivated to eat healthy and exercise.
While there will be a Q&A at the end of the event, you can also email your questions ahead of time to: [email protected].
22. Audrey Hepburn – Iconic Film Star
When? Thursday 23rd at 4:00pm
Audrey Hepburn is one of the most iconic stars in Hollywood history, but she led a fascinating life beyond the silver screen, too – including getting her start in the world of ballet and working as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Join speaker Steve for his latest deep dive into the life of show business great.
23. The Art of Compatibility
When? Friday 24th at 2:30pm
Choosing a compatible romantic partner isn’t an exact science – and what’s right for you will depend on many factors. However, if you’re looking for guidance, perhaps this event from relationship development specialist Shelley Lewin can help.
Throughout the talk, Shelley will introduce us to concepts from her book: Uncomplicated Love: A step-by-step guide for building a thriving relationship. These include why ‘chemistry’ might not be enough to measure longevity and how to identify what matters to you in a long-term partner.
24. Robert Burns and the Four Seasons
When? Friday 24th at 4:00pm
On January 25th, the Scots celebrate Burns Night – complete with haggis, whisky, and readings from the beloved poet’s works. But who was Robert Burns and why has he had such a lasting impact?
In this talk, host David will introduce Rest Less Events members to Burns’ life through his poems, which were influenced by the seasons.
25. Introduction to Chinese
When? Tuesday 28th at 9:15am
In her next introductory class, language aficionado Sally-Jayne takes us eastwards. This taster session will explore some basic Chinese vocabulary, numbers, and common greetings. Alongside, we’ll discover some cultural facts, too – such as why the spoken language sounds like singing.
While Chinese can be an intimidating language for English speakers to learn, hopefully, this introduction will give you a good idea of the fundamentals and whether you’d like to take your learning further.
26. British History: From the Ice Age to the Internet
When? Begins Tuesday 28th at 2:30pm
Chris Green (aka The History Chap) presents this new sweeping series on Britain’s history from the Ice Age to modern times.
In the first few sessions, we’ll hear how our island was cut off from mainland Europe by rising sea levels, tales of Queen Boudica and the Romans, and stories from Britain’s descent into the Dark Ages.
27. The Victorians Love of Photography
When? Thursday 30th at 11:30am
Nowadays, photography may be an accessible part of everyday life but, back in Victorian times, when it was first emerging, a single image could have cost two months’ wages.
This talk from professional photographer Steve Gill explores how the art of photography began, our ancestors’ love of taking pictures, and how to identify and look after the images that record your past.
28. Life with the Mitfords
When? Thursday 30th at 4:00pm
The six sisters of the infamous and aristocratic Mitford family led widely different lives. One was a novelist, one was a Duchess, one was a fascist, and one was a communist. And, as Lyndsy Spence writes, they “had a front-row seat to the great events of the 20th Century.”
Tune into this one-off event to hear more.
Final thoughts…
As you can see, there’s plenty to look forward to on Rest Less Events this January – from language classes to wellbeing workshops.
However, with around 100 sessions running monthly, we couldn’t possibly cover them all here. So why not browse our calendar to discover what else is coming up?
Are you a Rest Less Events member? If so, which events have you enjoyed? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.