The Fat Doctor

Basics

What is Seeds of Joy?

Seeds of Joy is a virtual celebration welcoming the spring equinox where we'll come together as a fat community to plant seeds of liberation, community, and delight. It's a space to connect, celebrate, and cultivate moments of happiness together.

When and where is this taking place?

Thursday, March 21st at 5pm GMT / 1pm ET / 10am PT. This is a virtual gathering via Zoom (link will be provided upon registration).

Is there a cost to attend?

No, Seeds of Joy is completely free! We have limited spaces available, so registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Participation

What should I bring?

• Something to eat or drink for our virtual potluck
• Pen and paper for writing activities
• Your authentic self and willingness to connect
• Optional: A comfortable space where you can move freely if you choose to join that portion of the celebration
• Optional: Anything that soothes or comforts you (like a blanket, a stuffed toy, a crystal, a pair of comfy slippers)

Do I need to participate in everything?

Not at all! You're welcome to participate in as much or as little as feels comfortable for you. You can join the conversation, simply observe, or step away at any point. This is meant to be a joyful experience, not a stressful one.

Will I need to have my camera on?

Camera use is completely optional. While seeing each other does enhance connection, we understand that not everyone feels comfortable being on camera, and that's perfectly fine.

Will this event be recorded?

Parts of the event will be recorded (specifically the guided meditation and intention-setting portions), while other parts (like our initial food sharing and the movement portion) will not be recorded. This allows people to feel more comfortable being themselves during the unrecorded portions.

About the Virtual Potluck

Do I have to bring food to the celebration?

No. We will be breaking the ice by breaking bread together, but there's no requirement to bring food if that doesn't work for you. You're welcome to join with or without something to eat or drink.

What kind of food should I bring to the virtual potluck?

Bring anything that brings you joy! This could be:

• A comfort food that makes you happy
• Something that connects you to your heritage or family
• A seasonal spring dish
• Simply whatever you're enjoying that day

How does a virtual potluck work?

We'll start by sharing what we've brought to eat/drink and have a conversation around food - favorite dishes, comfort meals, food memories, etc. You'll literally be eating/drinking during our gathering, just as you would at an in-person potluck.

Do I need to share a recipe?

Sharing recipes is encouraged but completely optional! If you're comfortable sharing, it's a lovely way to connect.

About the Activities

What kinds of activities will we be doing?

• Virtual potluck and food sharing conversation
• A reading about the spring equinox and eclipse season
• Guided meditation
• Intention-setting for spring
• Seed planting visualization
• Movement, music and dancing

I'm not spiritual/into meditation. Is this event still for me?

Yes! The guided meditation and intention-setting are offered as invitations, not requirements. The core of this event is about community connection and celebrating joy together, which everyone can participate in regardless of spiritual beliefs.

What if I can't/don't want to move or dance?

The dance portion is completely optional. You can observe, participate from a seated position, simply move your arms, or step away from your screen during this time. There is no right or wrong way to participate.

Technical Details

How do I join the Zoom?

A Zoom link will be available after registration, along with a reminder email shortly before the event.

What if I have technical difficulties?

Try refreshing your browser or restarting the Zoom app. If you continue to have issues, there will be contact information in your registration email for technical support.

Do I need to download Zoom?

While the Zoom app provides the best experience, you can also join via web browser if you prefer not to download the application.

Community Guidelines

Is this event only for fat people?

Seeds of Joy is primarily created as a space for fat community members, but fat-positive allies are welcome if they understand this is a celebration of fat joy and liberation.

What are the community agreements for this space?

• Respect the confidentiality of what's shared
• No diet talk or weight loss discussion
• Respect everyone's autonomy and boundaries
• You have complete autonomy over if and how you want to engage with any activity
• Practice compassion toward yourself and others

What if I need to leave early or join late?

That's absolutely fine! We understand that life happens and schedules vary. Feel free to join when you can and leave when you need to.

After the Event

Will I be able to access the recording?

Yes, registered participants will receive access to the recorded portions (guided meditation and intention-setting) after the event.

Will there be more events like this in the future?

We hope so! This is our first seasonal celebration, and we'd love to make it a regular offering. Your feedback after the event will help shape future gatherings.