I believe every one of us can create beautiful images, feel fulfilled, and improve our well-being through photography and this is why I created this podcast. The quiet landscape podcast is about exploring different ways that photographers, creatives, and thought leaders work and live and the conversations will spark your enthusiasm and inspire you to be creative. My name is Margaret Soraya and I am so glad you are here!
In this conversation, Emma Simpson shares her journey from being an air traffic controller to becoming a writer. She discusses the healing power of open water swimming and how it led her to explore women's relationships with water globally. Emma reflects on the impact of grief in her life, particularly the loss of her brother, and how it shaped her writing. The discussion also touches on cultural perspectives on grief, the challenges of writing authentically, and the importance of community in the creative process. Emma's upcoming book, 'Breaking Waves,' delves into these themes and aims to connect with readers on a deeper level.Pre Order Breaking Waves Join Emma for a writing workshop in Harris at the Creative Light Festival Find Emma on Substack Find Emma on Instagram Get full access to Quiet Moments at margaretsoraya.substack.com/subscribe
Words and imagery that encourage you to retreat to be kind to yourself, express yourself, find inner peace and become strong again. Taking your place in the world. Strong, calm and needed Margaret x Get full access to Quiet Moments at margaretsoraya.substack.com/subscribe
Debbie Hartmann shares the incredible stories of her photography projects that helped her mum as she was experiencing Parkinson's disease and Dementia and her friend with brain cancer. Debbie turned her creativity into positive, fun projects that lift both her and others during difficult times in a natural and intuitive way. Her enthusiasm for life and helping others is contagious. This episode is possibly one of the most heartwarming stories of humanity and love tied up in photography projects. Debbie is an extraordinary person who always seeks out the positives in life and allows herself to connect naturally to who she is and use that in her photography. She finds beauty everywhere and recently set out on a photography project to better help her "like" the harsh Minnesota winters. Please take a look at her projects and beautiful photography on her website. https://www.heyhartmann.com/ Get full access to Quiet Moments at margaretsoraya.substack.com/subscribe
In this episode, I take a reflective winter walk in January's snowfall to share my thoughts on slowing down and the challenge of balancing that with content creation. Substack has given me one cohesive platform where I can share my writing, images, video and audio and that has helped me feel less overwhelmed. This episode is about my journey towards a more fulfilling, less pressured approach to sharing my life and work. And how that has brought about my concept of visual meditations. If you'd like to write in to tell me about something that is challenging for you right now, I would love to be able to create a meditation for you ( anonymous) Just email me at margaret@margaretsoraya.com I also outline 3 ways in which sharing your work on substack is helpful, even if you don't have big aims to write for business, followers or monetisation: 1/Help encourage you to write more - a place to write and a place to publish. 2/ Learning to practice putting things out into the world and gaining confidence through doing. 3/ Finding community; people around us to motivate and uplift us.Finally, I share my plans for a future writing retreat in Wales with Sean Tucker and more details for the Creative Light Festival in Harris in October 2025. Some Links that may be helpful Creative FestivalWriting Retreat Substack / Newsletter Get full access to Quiet Moments at margaretsoraya.substack.com/subscribe
Dear readers, I hope you enjoy this meditation, which I wrote while thinking about a time of year when there can be many pressures. It is accompanied by a video from my home in Harris, and the music was a commissioned piece by Will Collant. Sending love, Margaret Get full access to Quiet Moments at margaretsoraya.substack.com/subscribe
Send us a textJoin Margaret as she updates us on her life in Harris while out paddling on calm waters on the island. She meets an otter who is having breakfast and enjoys the early morning on the Isle of Harris, a time when she feels most creative. A difficult year has resulted in deep thought about the way forward for her personally and for her business. She articulates the journey to arrive where she is today and how she has continually adapted to ensure that everything she does is in line with her personal values. Ideas on why you should always keep evolving as you grow and change so that your life and creativity feels right for any given time. Keep listening to hear what lies in store for the next inspirational chapter. Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.comSign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/
Send us a textA. S. Apothecary is a crofting enterprise based on the Isle of Harris. Their work is deeply rooted in the ethos of therapeutic plant work. Join Margaret as she talks to Amanda who is the founder, plantswoman and gatherer, distiller and creative force behind A.S Apothecary.This chat gently guides you through the process of how they cultivate a diverse range of therapeutic plants on their croft organically. They grown lush plants on the croft and in a huge greenhouse which 'meanders like a garden' inside. Hear how they wild harvest and use the plants for their products.The Imagery is so powerful - the scent and atmosphere in their workshop is almost tangible. You can feel the passion for their work flow throughout. They produce skin care, Wild Eve, speciality teas, tinctures, first aid kits and even roast coffee! A wonderful calm and soothing journey through nature - do not miss this. You can find A.S. Apothecary on Instagram Their website is www.asapoth.comSign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Send us a Text Message.Dr Marie-Lise Schlappy joins me to chat about HSP's ( Highly Sensitive Persons.) HSP, is a term coined by psychologist Elaine Aron who has written several books on the subject. You can find more on her website https://hsperson.com/We chat about how the traits are different to introversion, but a large proportion of introverts are HSP's Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Send us a Text Message.A solo episode from Margaret recorded out by the water with bird sounds in the background. Living more slowly and in tune with nature and how silence and nature sounds help soothe the nervous system. Cooking and baking and other creative activities that help slow down and live better. Documenting the wildlife and flowers that surrounds me in a small area around my house. Why creativity is important - it gives you the tools for coping and releasing emotions during difficult times in life. Making a date with being creative and allowing time for play. What are the circumstances in which you feel creative - begin to notice and then repeat when you feel the need to feel inspired. Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Send us a Text Message.In this conversation, Margaret Soraya interviews Bill Ward about his approach to photography, specifically his use of intentional camera movement (ICM) and his connection to water. They discuss the importance of being open and generous in the photography community, as well as the role of movement in both acting and photography. Bill explains how movement is central to his photography and how intentional camera movement allows him to add his own unique touch to his images. They also explore the relationship between a photographer's personality and their photographic style, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression in photography. In this conversation, Bill Ward and Margaret Soraya discuss their experiences with underwater photography and the challenges they face with their equipment. They also explore the idea of projects and how they evolve over time. They touch on the process of exhibiting and creating books, and the importance of choosing the right images and writing to accompany the work. They emphasize the need to keep photography interesting and fresh by constantly exploring new subjects and techniques.TakeawaysBeing open and generous in the photography community can lead to a more collaborative and supportive environment.Movement is central to Bill Ward's photography, and intentional camera movement allows him to add his own unique touch to his images.A photographer's personality and personal experiences can influence their photographic style and subject matter.Authenticity and self-expression are important in photography, and photographers should strive to create work that resonates with their own passions and interests. Underwater photography can be challenging due to equipment issues, such as aligning the camera correctly in the housing.Projects in photography are ongoing and can evolve over time, allowing for exploration and growth.Exhibiting and creating books are valuable ways to showcase and present photographic work.Choosing the right images and writing is crucial when putting together an exhibition or book.It's important to keep photography interesting by constantly exploring new subjects and techniques.Sound Bites"There's a temptation to be territorial, but as you say, being open and generous is important.""Intentional camera movement is about adding your physicality to the photographs.""Movement is absolutely central to what I really like doing in terms of photography.""It's the going back and back and back that's the thing... that's where the good stuff comes from."Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Matt Payne is a full-time landscape photographer, mountain climber and adventurer living in Durango, Colorado. He also hosts the hugely popular weekly F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast producing candid conversations with photographers.Join Margaret in their conversation where they explore numerous topics from how Matt found his creative purpose and how he gets great joy from promoting other photographers.His weekly podcasts have given him back so much. He loves the wonderful conversations, listening to lots of viewpoints and sharing and uplifting others' work and we talk about my own favourite episode of his where he highlighted women in Landscape photography.Matt takes the approach that 'Perfection is the enemy of good enough' and uses it in all sorts of ways. Give yourself permission to fail and start to identify areas of improvement.In August 2023 he got the opportunity to experience the Colorado trail and walked 500 miles home. During this time he pontificated about life and himself and he subsequently became a full time photographer. Watch out for the book in time to come Matts podcast page on his websiteMatts InstagramMatts' podcast facebook pageSign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Out on the kayak on the Isle of Harris, Margaret shares her thoughts along with the sounds of the birds and the water all around. Immerse into the peace and quiet of the early morning on the island with Margaret. Margaret shares thoughts about overwhelm and how to narrow down which channels to use for yourself. A comment on Neale James' recent podcast with Sean Tucker where they chat about overthinking and how to learn to listen to your own intuition and not be distracted by whether your art or writing or music will be liked by others. Some thoughts on journalling and how writing things down can mean the difference between remembering important things. As well as some readings from Margaret's notebooks. Neale James Photowalk podcast with Sean Tucker Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Listen in to Margaret as she shares her thoughts on this period of rest, regeneration, and self-compassion that she has been practicing recently.She covers numerous topics and, in her own unique way, explains how she has consciously slowed her life down, prioritizing rest recuperation and meditation, which she instinctively knows is needed for her well-being. Sometimes, that space to breathe and not to be doing, reading and mindful activities can really spark creativity and thought processes back into action. She is particularly enjoying listening to the sounds of nature at the moment - the birds and barking seals, for instance, are all very soothing.Find Beach art by Dorothy at Traigh AlbaNeale James Podcast episode Joey Hulins website Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Join Margaret whilst she chats with Laurence Winram, a professional photographer from Aberdeen and now based in Edinburgh. It's fascinating to hear how he balances his diverse commercial and unusual creative work. Laurence describes in detail how he creates his beautiful land art At these times, he is embracing the moment, whilst practising gratitude and mindfulness. He loves the connection to nature. He creates his design, takes the image and within hours the scene can degrade and be returned to nature.Enjoy this gentle insight into Laurence's life. it will make you think. Be sure to tap into his @shapednature page on Instagram - you won't be disappointed.Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Join Margaret as she introduces us to some sounds, thoughts and feelings she experienced during her recent trip to Kerala, India.Since 2016, she has regularly headed to India for Ayurvedic treatments and the time felt right for her to return this March . She explains how her time there helped with ongoing feelings of grief, gave her space to write and to think and, as always, use creativity as an outlet. A calming, thoughtful reflection of her time at this retreat.Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Anni Townend is a Leadership Partner, Coach and Mentor to Executive Teams and Senior Leaders, as well as being an Author, Facilitator, and Entrepreneur and Podcast Host of Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend.Join Margaret as they talk about the benefits of walking and talking. Anni explains that walking is one of the ways in which she renews herself and this has always been a criteria for her when deciding where she lives.They further explore the equation of creativity, collaboration and conversation. A really inspirational chat which shouldn't be missed as it emphasises the importance of finding an outdoor activity which resonates with each of us. Finding cracks and crevices in our busy lives to take time to stop is crucial.Anni advocates taking small pauses every day and reading! Listen in to hear how to greet each day as a mini adventure!Anni's Podcast Anni's Website Anni's InstagramSign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Listen in to Margaret explain how she is navigating the various stages of grief she is experiencing. As always she instinctively turns to creativity and nature, whilst at all times listening to what her body needs, tuning in to what makes her feel better.Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Brie Stockwell is a photographer, confidence coach and lifelong creative. Join Margaret as they chat about the benefits of sharing their creative workWhilst both enjoy spending time to reflect and create solo, they explore the value of having 'pockets' of people whose feedback and encouragement is vital. Listen whilst they discuss Brene Brown's Square Squad and having a small group whom you respect and whose opinions matter.They explore how Brie's coaching is very important to her and how she encourages her clients to become more conscious and motivated, thus empowering them to make decisions.. Sustainability creativity!The concept of Brie's new Podcast, Wild Women in Photography, supports and celebrates women in photography. She loves to record their 'stories'.This discussion gives a fascinating insight into these two creatives' minds.Brie's Instagram Creative Affair podcast Creative minds coach Instagram Wild women in Photography Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/ Sign up to my newsletter to hear first about new retreats: Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/ Join my online Creative Haven community :https://creative-haven.newzenler.com
Thoughts around self-care and well-being at Christmas - a solo episode with Margaret
A roundup of the Creative Light Festival, its speakers, masterclasses, and activities. Snippets from Christina Golian's 'Spark Your Creativity' masterclass, an extract from Lisa Paulson and an exciting announcement about future festival dates that you can look forward to - the 2024 event at Broughton Sanctuary and a community-focused 2025 event in Harris. You can see details of the new festivals here
Join Margaret as she shares her thoughts whilst navigating an emotional and overwhelming time in her life. She expresses her gratitude for the many acts of kindness she has received and, as always for her, how her art is instrumental in helping her cope.You can see Broughton Santuary here And see details for Creative light at Broughton here
LeAnn Phelan is a singer music industry professional based in Nashville, LeAnn offers an insight into her journey through creativity. She helps creatives be seen, heard and encouraged. They chat about the value of travelling alone and how they love to explore, meet new people and the 'power' of independence. It opens up a whole new world of growth and possibilities.It's interesting to hear how both Margaret and LeAnn explore as many different types of creativity as possible and how they find it freeing. They examine how to balance the need to earn and the art itself. A lovely calming, fascinating and uplifting chat.You can find LeAnn here: https://leannphelan.com/https://lpcreative.samcart.com/products/lp-creative-therapy-launch-dec-2023
Margaret catches up with Mali Davies at this year's Creative Light Festival to get his insights to the weekend.Describing the experience as transformative and unique, he explains how he has never seen the beautiful Autumn colours in quite this way before. It was sensory overload!Meeting with like-minded people, face-to-face, in such circumstances was almost surreal to him. Listen whilst he recalls 'dancing with Joe Cornish" and chatting with Sean Tucker, Moving on, they chat about the benefits of play and the amount of fun and cries of laughter enjoyed by all. It is so important to 'let go and play'.Mali tells us his highlights from the Festival and how the biggest message he took away from it is 'togetherness' - nobody wanted to leave this 'huddle' of minds! Margaret took away kindness, community, gratitude and appreciating every day. Finally, we are given an insight into both Margaret and Mali"s plans for next year. Mali's Instagram Mali's YouTube Channel
I am talking with the amazing Joe Cornish, a landscape photographer known for his woodland images at this years creative light festival. Joe gave a talk and led some outdoor workshops during the festival and it was his spirit of kindness and generosity that really grabbed me. We also talk about how community and connection can inspire and influence our creative process, a concept embodied at the Creative Light Festival. Talking through the importance of gratitude and generosity in our creativity. It was a real honour to spend time with Joe Cornish.
This episode features Elizabeth Hockney, a part-time doctor, whose passion for photography has added colour and vibrancy to her life. She shares her journey to creating more abstract and painterly images.Elizabeth talks about the importance of finding a group of like-minded people - your tribe - to share and grow with,
Immersion is not just for theatre, as Bill demonstrates with his approach to photography. We talk about the world of water photography as Bill shares his experiences and we chat into the energy and the pure exhilaration of capturing the ocean's moods.We explore the uplifting power of encouragement and the joy found in the process of creating. Bill talks about using social media to share and connect, the importance of authenticity, and how following one's instincts can lead to extraordinary results. Bills Instagram https://www.instagram.com/billwardphotography/Bill's website https://billwardphotography.co.uk/
Join me as I share our transformative journey in our first creative retreat in St ives. surf lessons, early morning tranquility, and the joy of being in the here and now as catalysts of creativity. How reconnecting with our inner voice and creating space for rest can nurture our creative spirit. I also highlight the significance of inspiring communities in fostering creativity.
Jason Baxter, an accomplished photographer and videographer from Edinburgh picked up his first camera at the age of 14. Fast forward two decades later, he's transformed his passion into a thriving career. But it's not all about the lens - transitioning to videography during the pandemic, Jason has utilised his skills and perspective to craft narratives, telling stories that influence how we perceive our surroundings. The journey to success is rarely a straight path, and Jason's is no different. He tells us about his first photography book - leading to his work being commissioned by Edinburgh City Council and the British Airport Authority. Jason chats about the challenges and victories of balancing commercial work with his personal passions, and shares how a breathtaking sunrise at Ben Lomond sparked his love for photography. You'll get a taste of the perks of being a professional photographer - honing skills, creating stock work, enjoying trips, and dabbling in different mediums. Lastly, you'll hear Jason's invaluable advice on following your heart, grabbing opportunities when they arise, and never losing sight of your passion. Jason's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jasonbaxtermedia/Jason's website https://linktr.ee/JasonBaxterMedia
A solo episode around the idea of making mistakes and moving on rather than dwelling. Why we beat ourselves up about the small things. Then onto a recording made at home in Harris in front of the fire where I speak about taking the pressure off and how taking small steps in your creative time can lead to happier and more joyous moments.
Emily Endean, a full time photographer based in the UK, has completely transformed her life over the last year. Her inspiring story details a modern-day traveller who traded her conventional life for the freedom of van life.I chat with Emily about life on the road, the joy of freedom, and the ability to focus on creativity. But also the reality of the cold winter months, finding showers and washing clothes. We talk about how Emily has explored various income avenues. From shooting weddings and landscapes to teaching workshops. Emily's Instagram Emily's links
Leadership and life coach, Kate Jones chats with me on this weeks podcast. We explore the value of seeking out support, and not just when you're in crisis. Coaching and mentoring aren't just for therapy, but can be the guidance you need to create something new in your life. Sharing personal experiences, we shed light on the differences between therapy and coaching, and the importance of finding the right mentors. Trusting the process of change and transformation can be challenging, but it's a creative journey that can lead to fulfilling outcomes.Lastly, we weave in the power of nature and creativity as avenues to inner peace and well-being. Kate eloquently explains how these elements can help us access a greater sense of belonging. Rather than seeking answers externally, exploring these aspects can help you connect with your true self. So tune in as we journey with Kate Jones through the transformative power of new beginnings, the magic of coaching, and the promise of a more fulfilled life through inner creativity.Kates website: Kates Instagram
Sean Tucker recently came over to the isle of Harris to make a documentary on my creative life for his YouTube channel. Touching in Introversion and my path through life. Vulnerability and being visible online is explored in this episode. You can watch the documentary here: www.youtube.com/@seantuckSean's website Sean's Instagram
Recorded on the beach with the backdrop of crashing waves, I wanted to talk about comparing our progress with others and feeling inadequate with how much we are doing. And It's okay to not be doing as much as others. We all have different lives, commitments, and work paces. The important thing is taking small steps forward.
A solo mini episode about my passion for creativity and how it has not just shaped my life, but also become a cornerstone in my family's ethos. I discuss my own creative pursuits - painting, writing a book, and managing this podcast, each laden with its share of self-doubt and perseverance. I chat about " How far have you come" and Morgan Harper Nichols' empathetic poems.
Eric Hemian, is atalented music and sound producer and we chat about the reality of pursuing a creative profession. His transition from performing musician to a successful freelance composer and producer is not only inspiring but is also filled with practical advice. He discusses the balancing act between creative expression and earning a living, and why he prefers commissioning custom music pieces over generic ones.Eric's journey is a tale of unlearning and discovering joy in new creative avenues. This episode is filled with practical advice, and a whole lot of inspiration. Tune in and join us on this exciting exploration of creativity, passion, and music. You can see Erics Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/eric_hemion/Erics website is here http://www.erichemion.com/
After a recent workshop led by Kate Jones from Neon Living in my Creative Haven community, I wanted to share some of my own thoughts on how I work with my own inner critic. Join me on an early morning walk on the Outer Hebrides with Skye my whippet, as I talk about whats happening in my life at the moment as well as how I cope with my inner critic!
Join me as I chat with Adele and Max Warner Tate about making YouTube videos. We discuss how creating video content for personal enjoyment can help overcome the intimidation of public critique. We talk about of working with a partner,and how this eases the workload. Talking through why there arent more females on YouTube. Talking about time constraints and the delicate balancing act between personal and professional commitments. Tune in for our tips on carving out space for passion projects and inspiring more women to vocalize their narratives on YouTube. Apolgies in advance for background noise - this episode was filmed on location on the Isle of Harris in my van where Skye my whippet decided to cause chaos! https://www.youtube.com/@WarnerTatePhotography
My conversation with David uncovers how photography transcends the mere act of capturing a moment. It's about forming deep connections, understanding the essence of a place. We talk about how childhood experiences can influence our work. Passion drives us, and David's unwavering passion for the outdoors is a testament to that. So, prepare to immerse yourself in the magic and wonders of Aviemore through the fascinating lens of David Russell from Highland Wildscapes
This episode recounts my journey to the Shiant Isles with Immerse Hebrides. Initially, my vision was to photograph birds, but the landscape had other plans. It offered me a different kind of surprise - jellyfish, something I had never thought of photographing. The experience emphasized a key insight, that openness and adaptability can lead to rewarding adventures in photography.Immerse Hebrides Instagram Immerse Hebrides website
Join me as I have a conversation with the extraordinary Claire Walsh, an accomplished Irish free diver and author. We venture into her exhilarating world, exploring her book 'Underwater,' her unique writing process, and how she managed to overcome self-doubt during its creation. We delve into the arduous rewrites, the tension of planning a wedding amidst it all, and her feelings post book-release.Claire and I talk about our personal bouts with COVID-19, revealing the physical and mental effects it had on our lives. We examine the profound connection between our beliefs, self-image, and the simple act of breathing. Hear how Claire perceives our generation's aesthetic approach triggering physical tension. We venture into a dialogue around mental illness, ableism, and body acceptance. Claire generously shares her personal journey with mental illness, the role therapy plays in her life, and our collective need for open dialogue to reduce the feeling of isolation. We tackle the challenge of confronting ableism, affirming the significance of personal training, and the urge to question societal norms around body image. This episode is not just the exploration of Claire's inspiring journey as a free diver and author, but an honest reckoning of mental and physical health.Buy the book Claires Website Claires Instagram
From the depths of self-reflection to the height of imagination, I recount my recent struggles and triumphs in this episode. An in-water photography exhibition, my new book "Within Hebridean Seas," and the upcoming Creative Light Festival in Scotland. Plus, I've got some exciting news on an offer from Creative Haven to help you find your voice. On location on the Isle of Hoy, I talk about insights from Deepak Chopra , helping us to focus on our purposes, passions, and gratitude.A few thoughts on to feeling so happy and smiley, mental health and the power of talking. And a final quote from the incredible Louis Schwartzberg tp uplift and feel gratitude for each day.
Listen in to hear Margaret reflect upon her inspiring day which began with a chat with Claire Walsh for next week's upcoming podcast, moved on to a photography teaching session with the delightful Keela and culminated in some evening beach down time and swim. Chatting about what she learned from both experiences, Margaret gives an insight into her life, health and battles. An incredible free spirit, Claire explained that to create freely, you must create for yourself alone. Powerful, authentic and emotional images will follow. Hear about 11 year old Keela's wonderful, child-like freedom whilst creating her photography. Her liberating 'just try it and see' attitude' is amazing! A truly lovely afternoon in nature and swimming.
Being alone often fosters my most innovative thoughts and it's a necessity for me to spend some quiet time each morning, letting my mind wander and create. However, creativity isn't just about enjoying solitude, it's about finding the right balance of alone time and meaningful interactions. Engaging in deep, thought-provoking conversations, whether it's during my podcast interviews or within my online community, can also spark a wave of creative ideas.It's not uncommon for you to find me lost in the world of photography. The art of capturing moments, the tranquility of nature, and the thrill of immortalizing memories, it's akin to meditation for me. Photography is more than just a hobby, it's an extension of self-expression, and taking a break from it sometimes allows me to come back with a fresh perspective. This episode gets even more interesting as we bring in Sebastian Wehrle who shares his unique insights on photography. A true creative at heart, Sebastian provides a fresh perspective on the importance of constantly creating through photography. So, join us on this introspective journey where we discuss solitude, creativity, and the magic of photography.https://www.instagram.com/sebastian_wehrle/https://sebastian-wehrle.de/shop/
Join Kj nNasrul and myself as we dive into this thought-provoking topic and uncover the essential role of self-awareness in our lives. With the COVID pandemic forcing us to confront our own reflections on screens, the importance of understanding ourselves has never been more crucial. In this episode, we discuss self-esteem, perfectionism, and the inner critic while touching on the uncomfortable yet rewarding practice of mirror work.Discover the connection between self-awareness, self-esteem, and authentic creativity as we explore the importance of relying on our inner compass, rather than seeking external validation. Learn how to embrace your unique gifts and talents and find an environment that nurtures your true self. Our conversation also covers the power of letting go and being present in our creative endeavors, cultivating a sense of freedom and joy through mindful self-talk and connection with our surroundings.Finally, we delve into the challenges of unlearning external validation and rediscovering our intuition. We discuss techniques for building self-confidence through practice and repetition, as well as the healing power of reading, journaling, and even retreats in Bali. It's time to embark on a transformative journey towards self-awareness, self-esteem, and finding your authentic creative self. Kj's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/blissbeginswithin/
During my recent retreat experience, I realized the immense value of self-care for our mental and creative well-being. Join me in this episode as I open up about my retreat reflections and discuss the importance of self-care with some of my fellow retreat participants.Together, we explore the significance of putting on our own oxygen mask before helping others, especially when it comes to parenthood. Having a supportive partner can make all the difference in creating an environment that nurtures self-care and self-investment. We also delve into the challenges of disconnecting from the outside world to truly relax and refocus our energy on personal growth and reconnecting with our creative side.Finally, we discuss the idea of productivity during retreats, emphasizing the importance of silence and allowing our minds the space to process emotions and thoughts. Trusting the process and not trying to control it can lead to more creative solutions and ideas emerging naturally. So, don't miss this insightful and inspiring episode as we share our experiences and thoughts on the power of self-care, retreats, and embracing our own unique paths. Join us on this journey of self-discovery and self-love.
A podcast recorded on location as I revisit the beach in Holland that holds a special place in my heart. I share personal, nostalgic moments of my childhood and discuss the importance of family connections and ideas around generational patterns. I am beginning to explore how these experiences have shaped my life and work.I also touch on the value of scheduling time for creative pursuits and personal growth. From beach trips in Holland to a retreat in Italy, discover the importance of spending our free time in ways that truly matter to us. Be inspired to prioritize your own health, learning, and exploration, and take a step towards living a more fulfilled and meaningful life.
Imagine taking a leap of faith and stepping out of your comfort zone, only to discover a newfound sense of confidence and personal growth. That's precisely what happened to our incredible guest, Lesley Lintott, who conquered her chronic shyness by participating in a masterclass last year. In today's episode, we delve into Lesley's inspiring journey and discuss the power of vulnerability in both our connections and our creative pursuits.Together, we explore the delicate balance between protecting our creative work and putting ourselves out there to grow and connect with others. Through authentic conversations, we uncover the role of vulnerability in tapping into our unique voice and artistic style. Lesley and I also discuss the challenges of perfectionism, criticism, and fear of failure, and share valuable insights on how to break free from these barriers.As we wrap up our discussion, Lesley shares her experience of overcoming the fear of public speaking and the transformative impact of listening to her own voice. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability in all aspects of our lives, and how it can ultimately help us create meaningful art and forge deeper connections. So join us and be inspired to face your fears, embrace your vulnerability, and unleash your creativity.
A first-ever outdoor podcast recorded during a trip to the Isle of Mull. In this solo episode Margaret talks about the great things that happen when we have space and time. You can also see the video version over on YouTube.
Wendy Bagnall is a photographic artist who lives in Surrey, England, the natural landscape being the inspiration behind her work.Wendy tells us about her unsettled feelings about her photography. She is unsure quite what's troubling her but finds herself in a funny phase, questioning lots of things, feeling a loss of identity and possibly a lack of a challenge. She's been doing a lot of reflecting and reading, not forcing anything, just giving herself space. Co-incidentally, Margaret finds herself in a similar situation and whilst not bored with photography itself, is bored with the same old conversations around the more superficial things such as technicals but is excited around conversations such as self compassion, perfectionism and creativity at a deeper level.They explore how this thoughtful, questioning period is necessary on occasions. Sometimes it's just time to rest and think things through which will hopefully result in more conscious and self-aware work.How to re-inspire yourself when in these lulls? They acknowledging that every so often you have to stop and take stock to ensure you're on the right track and, if not, choose a different path. Hear how they talk about new ways of exploring creativity, eg writing, video, painting etc.This candid, gentle chat gives lots to think about and it will be very interesting to hear how their lives have moved on when they next catch up.
Margaret has been thinking for a long time about sharing more of her lifestyle whilst being out and about in Harris, passionately believing in the physical and mental benefits of the outdoors. Be transported from her doorstep in Harris to the beautiful beaches.Wondering why it has taken so long to do this she has realised that starting something new takes time and 'letting go' is the hardest part. Once we let go of the outcome, what other people think, worrying about it all, the process becomes easier. Listen in to hear about Margaret's summer. You'll love hearing about her move to Harris, her workshops, her Harris exhibition, the autumn Festival, her online community, etc.
Christina Golian is a creative and well-being coach based in Scotland. Her career has taken many twists and turns over the years including wedding photography, journalism and coaching. In common with many people, she re-assessed her work and family life during lockdown and we learn where this has taken her.Listen in to hear Margaret and Christina explore the origins of self belief, where it comes from. Acknowledging that most people carry self-doubt, they chat about the possible reasons for this and the ways in which we can build 'scaffolding' to support us. They give personal examples about how our life experiences influence our development and how they worked through their inner critics. Christina is a firm believer that compassion and self-compassion when things don't quite go to plan was fundamental to building her self belief.This lovely and insightful conversation taps into the value of surrounding yourself with positive people and affirmations, accepting compliments, embracing failure and much, much more. The chat concludes with Christina describing her Masterclass at Margaret's Festival in October 23. This fun session will cover self belief, compassion and the role of positive emotions - and how to tap into that.https://www.instagram.com/christinagolian/
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