Podcasts about calm christmas

Happy betwixmas everyone, I hope you're all snuggled up in the warm and enjoying some well deserved rest. Join me as I reflect on Christmas, let go of 'perfect' and embrace the changes that come with having little ones. Soon I'll be looking ahead to the new year but for now it's all about fairy lights, chocolate, candlelight and (in my case) flu remedies!Book recommendations Calm Christmas & a Happy New Year by Beth KemptonChristmas at River Cottage by Lucy BrazierSend us a text

Escape the holiday hustle and find your peace with this 10-minute guided hypnosis session designed to create a calm and joyful Christmas. The holiday season can be overwhelming with endless to-do lists, family gatherings, and mounting expectations. But you deserve a moment to relax and reconnect with the magic of the season.In this soothing session, you'll be guided into a deep state of relaxation, helping you release stress, embrace the beauty of imperfection, and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're feeling frazzled or just need a break, this calming experience will leave you refreshed and ready to enjoy the holidays with ease.Take a moment for yourself this Christmas—breathe deeply, let go of tension, and rediscover the joy of the season. Perfect for:Managing holiday stressFinding peace during a busy seasonCultivating joy and presence Like, subscribe, and share this video to spread calm and cheer this holiday season! Wishing you a serene and magical Christmas. Podcast Network-https://www.unfpod.com/

The UK's #1 favourite Christmas podcast is back for a one-off special to mark the turning of the season and the gift of a leap day as winter gives way to spring. This bonus episode ‘FAREWELL WINTER' includes:-       A beautiful ritual for bidding farewell to winter-       An insight into the tradition of ‘leap day'-       Ideas for celebrating the arrival of spring-       A peek into Japanese microseasons-       Some gorgeous words capturing the feeling of the season turning-       Our wellbeing and nature corners-       A peek into my brand new book KOKORO (which is out on April 4)-       An inspiring writing prompt and moreWith inspiration from Mary Webb, Masaoka Shiki, Alan Watts, Lin Yutang, Madoka Mayuzumi, Tadashi Terashima, Yosa Buson and Christina Georgia Rossetti.Why not take a walk this week, and have a listen while looking out for signs of spring where you are? (And for those of you in the southern hemisphere, may it be an invitation for you to notice signs of autumn).Beth XxHandy links:·      My new book KOKORO: Japanese wisdom for a life well lived (Piatkus) (or free international shipping when you order via Blackwells here)·      Get FREE access to my new seasonal writing sanctuary Spring Light when you pre-order  KOKORO from any retailer (Here's the link for Blackwells who are offering free international shipping). Once you have ordered it in any format from any retailer, go to bethkempton.com/kokoro and pop your receipt details in the short form there. ·      My haiku essay: The Life-Changing Magic of Writing Haiku: finding beauty and solace in a heartbeat sized poem For all show notes including book and article reference links please click here.

Thank you so much for tuning in to my last episode of the year. Should you wanna come find me on Insta I'm @francescaamber and @lawofattractionchangedmylifeHere are the books, as promised:Allen Carr's Easy Way To Quit Emotional EatingWhy Has Nobody Told Me This Before? Style TherapyF*ck You ChaosCalm ChristmasMy 2024 Goal Setting Party is TOMORROW and I would LOVE you to join! Click HERE for your ticket.We start a BRAND NEW book in the book club on the 1st January and I would love you to join us for 22 days of life-changing gratitude. You can find the book, Grateful As F*ck here. Become a BOOK CLUB BITCHIf reading's not your thing, you can listen to any of these books for FREE on Audible, with a 30 day free trial!Thank you so much for listening and I'll see you next week, lots of love, Fran x Join today for twice monthly Manifest With The Moon episodes every new and full moon. https://plus.acast.com/s/loacml. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here we are completing another circle around the sun. We have clambered across the fabric of another year, stitched together adventures, stories, and memories, darned some holes as neatly as we could, knotted threads of new colour into our lives, and we are now here at the edge looking back across all we have woven in the past twelve months. This is a wonderful time to focus on gratitude, to reflect on the year gone by, choose what to leave behind in this year, do some gentle dreaming for the year ahead and cross the threshold of the year together, with hope, dreams and a steaming cup of tea.This episode includes: Tips for dreaming and scheming for the year aheadAn exclusive excerpt from my new book Kokoro: Japanese wisdom for a life well lived (out April 2024)New Year traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)A craft project for gratitudeOur nature cornerA writing promptSome lovely words to ease you into the new yearPLUS A lovely giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)·      With inspiration from: @SimpleThingsMag, Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Emily Thomas and James Weston Lewis, Lindsey Harrad @livemoreplantfully, Brenda Wells, Emily Silva @soulsadventures, Max EhrmannHandy links:·      Sky View app·      StarWalk 2 app·      Thompson-Morgan gardening newsletter·      My Book Proposal Masterclass course (next class runs live from Jan 29)·      The Way of the Fearless Writer: Ancient Eastern wisdom for a flourishing writing life  by Beth Kempton (Piatkus) – just 99p on Kindle on Amazon UK throughout JanuaryThis week's giveaway·      Chance to win a lovely journal and a personalized signed copy of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year over on @bethkempton on Instagram Click here for all show notes including featured books.Wishing you a very happy new year, friend.Beth Xx

These are the days in between. The liminal space that hovers beyond the festivities and the before the arrival of a fresh New Year. I call this time 'the Hush', when the world slows and some kind of portal opens up. This episode is all about making the most of this precious time and it includes:Ideas for different ways to spend these days in betweenA beautiful winter visualisation to help you open to whatever might be calling youA full moon bathing ritualA comforting recipeOur nature cornerSome get ahead tips for NEXT Christmas (you'll be glad of them, I promise)PLUS A self-care giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)With inspiration from: @gill.meller @slowhomepod @BrookeMcAlary, Elizabeth Jenner, Dakota Hills and Sierra Brashear @superbeamix.Handy links:·      Full moon calendar ·      Last chance to join my Winter Writing Sanctuary (FREE) Starts December 28!This week's giveaway·      Chance to win some lovely self-care goodies and a personalized signed copy of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year over on @bethkempton on Instagram  Ingredients for Gill Meller's Homity Potatoes recipe:(Serves 4 or more) You will need:8 baking potatoes1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil15g (5 ½ oz) butter2 leeks, sliced into rounds2 onions, halved and sliced1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard100g (3 ½ oz) mature cheddar, finely gratedSea salt and freshly ground black pepperFeatured in this episode:·      Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)·      What to look for in Winter by Elizabeth Jenner (Ladybird)·      Moon Bath: Bathing rituals and recipes for relaxation and vitality by Dakota Hills and Sierra Brashear·      Outside: Recipes for a wilder way of eating by Gill Meller·      Care: The radical art of taking time by Brooke McAlaryEnjoy!Beth XxYou can find all the show notes here: https://bethkempton.com/ccpodcast-shownotes/ 

Merry Christmas! This week, we finish our holiday series, All Is Calm. In this message, Pastor Jared talks about being more like the wisemen and less like Herod. If you want more information about the church, we highly encourage you to download the Church Center App. The app will be able to guide toward our Calendar of Events, ways to Give, and fill out a Connect Card. 

A 5 minute Christmas message from Joanne. Recent podcast interviews - The Next Chapter: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/podcast and Have you got your sh*t together? https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-31-joanne-mallon-on-finding-calm-goal-setting/id1689884797?i=1000639150021 Joanne Mallon is the author of several self help books including How to Find Calm in 5 Minutes a Day, Find Your Why and How to Find Joy in 5 Minutes a Day. She's been coaching clients around the world for over 20 years and is one of the UK's most experienced life and career coaches. Get in touch on Twitter and Instagram @joannemallon or email joanne@joannemallon.com If you found this episode helpful, you can support the podcast by leaving a rating or review, or by buying Joanne a coffee here https://ko-fi.com/joannemallon Joanne's books are here on Amazon https://amzn.to/3D0rn6Z Joanne specialises in life and career coaching for people in media and creative industries. To find out more about one to one coaching with Joanne, visit her  website here: https://joannemallon.com/

It's nearly Christmas Eve. Can you feel the magic hovering? If ever there was a time to take a deep breath and let go of all that has not been done to embrace what is here, that time is now. Pull up a chair and relax, my friend. It is Christmas, after all. This very Christmassy episode will ease you into Christmas, reminding you what really matters and encouraging you to let things be perfectly imperfect.This episode includes: A little story from the Arctic CircleA letter from Father ChristmasA moment of reflectionA wintery writing prompt A quick craft idea to give you a fun thing to do on Christmas dayChristmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)Our nature cornerThose last few get ahead tipsMy Christmas message for youWith inspiration from: Matsuo Basho, Laurie Lee, Johnny Coppin, @NadiykaGerbish, Yaroslav Hrytsak, Dot May Dunn, Elizabeth Jenner, Malcolm Bird, Alan Dart, Kenneth Grahame, JRR Tolkien, Bailey Tolkien and Father Christmas. Handy links:KakslauttenenSweet Salty Spicy Party Nuts recipeEscape to a cosy world of words in my Winter Writing Sanctuary (FREE) December 28-January 6Ingredients for Roasted Nuts recipe shared in this episode:Your choice of nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews and almonds, and macademias) Any extra flavours you might like such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds and fresh rosemaryMaple syrupButter (optional)Featured in this episode:The Matsuo Basho haiku poem in this episode can be found in Basho: The Complete Haikutranslated by Jane Reichhold (Kodansha) p.658Letters from Father Christmasby JRR Tolkien, edited by Baillie TolkienCider with Rosie by Laurie Lee - excerpt shared can be found in A Country Christmas edited by Johnny Coppin (The Windrush Press) p.47A Ukranian Christmas, by Nadiyka Gerbish and Yaroslav Hrytsak. (Sphere) p.11 and p.15Christmas Around the Village Greenby Dot May Dunn (Orion, p.46)What to look for in Winter by Elizabeth Jenner (Ladybird)The Christmas Handbook by Malcolm Bird and Alan DartThe Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame (as featured in Favorite Poems for Christmas: A Child's Collection (Bushel & Peck Books) p.8You can find all the show notes here: https://bethkempton.com/ccpodcast-shownotes/ 

 We are in the thick of the Christmas season, and it is so much fun, but it's also a lot. So today, I wanted to share a Christmas podcast that'll help you find a pocket of calm in all of the crazy. It's called the Calm Christmas Podcast and tune in to this episode for a sneak peek!   Links from this Episode: Join The Sounding Board View the rest of the show notes on the Friendly Podcast Guide Website  

This week's episode is dedicated to those we love and miss, to encourage us all – me included – to take all the time we need to feel all the things we are going to feel in the days ahead. I hope you find this episode to be a comfort.  Of course I am not going to tell you how to be or what to do as you face Christmas without a loved one, or face it carrying any other sense of grief. What I am going to do is share some ideas for pausing, honouring and remembering our loved ones, along with some gentle advice from people who work with bereaved families, and some beautiful poems and readings which I hope will offer us some comfort.In March this year my lovely mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer out of the blue, and died in a hospice three weeks later. I was by her side for nearly all of that time. It was devastating in its brevity and impact, but it was also just about enough time for us to leave nothing unsaid. We talked about Christmas, and she gave me some ideas for this season of the podcast, particularly for this episode. When I think about that now, I am floored by her bravery and selflessness, and the way that in having those conversations, she has managed to give us a Christmas gift this year too. I hope this episode will give you an opportunity to pause, honour and remember those you love and miss, and find some joy and light in this darkest of seasons.This episode includes: Gentle ideas for pausing, honouring and remembering those we love and missA beautiful ritual for connecting with the memory and light of a loved one (you might want to bring a candle, some matches, a notebook and a pen)How the Five Stories of Christmas can help us feel close to our loved onesPermission not to have a ‘happy Christmas'Some gorgeous poems and readingsA writing prompt to help you get your feelings down on paperA lovely craft ideaChristmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)Our nature corner, welcoming the Winter SolsticeGet ahead tips before Christmas is upon usAnd a blessing for youPLUS A self-care giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)With inspiration from:@donnaashworthwords @optionb @andygrammer @stoswaldsuk @joannemallon Bertolt Brecht, Sarah Crossnan, Dana Gioia, @sheep1sh Neil Astley, Pamela Robertson-Pearce, Phillis Levin, @thehungryyear Kevin Young, Ashley Muller, @glass_walls_life Austie M Baird, Cherie Arnitt, @warsanshiree @williamsieghart, Robert Frost, @lydiamillen @lia_leendertz @rebeccacampbell_author @katecbowler, John O'DonohueLeave a note remembering your loved one on the self-care giveaway post on my Instagram @bethkempton here. https://instagram.com/bethkemptonYou can find all the show notes including to all featured books here.Handy links:·      The Life-Changing Magic of Writing Haiku (free essay on my Substack) ·      St Oswald's Hospice donation link (where Brenda works) ·      Escape to a cosy world of words in my Winter Writing Sanctuary (FREE) December 28-January 6  This week's giveaway·      Chance to win some lovely self-care goodies and a personalized signed copy of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year over on @bethkempton on Instagram Beth Xx

This podcast is just for the grown-ups! Grace is joined by Louise from the Christian charity Safe Families. They will be talking us through 5 tips to help our families stay on track this Christmas.

Special Needs and the Christmas season. Recipe for overwhelm and meltdowns. That's why in this episode I share my favorite grounding exercise to stop the overwhelm and find my inner calm.  Even when you're in a crowded supermarket or at a big family gathering. Plus an extra exercise using the 5 senses that can also help snap out of the overwhelm. If your kid needs a little help to snap out of the overwhelm, this one is great to do together! And at the end I've got a few tips to help your kid at Christmas celebrations (or any family gathering for that matter).I think I came across the snow globe exercise a couple of years ago in my favorite Christmas book: Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton. But upon rereading it I found out I gave it a little twist. Beth does the lovely Calm Christmas podcast series as well in the weeks before Christmas. It's my favorite podcast in the winter season to relax, calm down and savour the things that truly matter. I can't recommend it enough!Stay sane

In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share some of the holiday-themed projects they are currently working on and ones they plan on completing in the future. They then share some of their favorite holiday traditions. These include favorite snacks, movies, gifts, and memories. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone!Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/supportFor complete show notes, pictures, and links to all of today's featured quilts and fabrics, visit the A Quilting Life Blog: https://www.aquiltinglife.com/?p=28879Cozy Earth: https://cozyearth.com/Cozy Earth 35% Off Sitewide with the code: AQUILTINGLIFE2023 Quilting Life Mystery Block of the Month Landing Page (Quilt on the Wall): https://www.aquiltinglife.com/category/block-of-the-month/Home For The Holidays Book (Quilt on the Table): https://amzn.to/49wZzFz  Candy Boxes (Wall Behind Billy): https://tidd.ly/468TPjxCotton Cuts Modern Maker Box: https://www.cottoncuts.com/modern-maker/Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year Book: https://amzn.to/3GE2KOeSewcialites 2 Patterns: http://shrsl.com/4ca5gNOTE: Some of the links provided here are affiliate links.Where to Find Us:Facebook: A Quilting Life with Sherri & Chelsi: https://www.facebook.com/groups/459389991531728/A Quilting Life Blog: https://www.aquiltinglife.comChelsi Stratton Blog: https://chelsistratton.wordpress.com/A Quilting Life Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/aquiltinglifeA Quilting Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aquiltinglife/Chelsi Stratton Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelsistratton/A Quilting Life Pattern Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SherriQuiltsChelsi Stratton Pattern Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/StrattonHandmadeVisit the A Quilting Life YouTube channel for more great video content: https://www.youtube.com/aquiltinglifeEnjoy what you heard? Be sure to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and your review could be read on the show.Support the show

This delicious episode is all about festive feasting – from the main event to all those gatherings and feedings in between. I adore cookbooks and share a lot in this episode, along with some other food-related delights. I hope it gets you flicking through your own recipe books and planning for some special time around the table this year.This episode includes:-       Snippets from some of my favourite Christmassy cookbooks-       Tips for reducing the stress of Christmas cooking, and being mindful of costs-       A story about the day it all changed in our household-       Some ideas for laying your Christmas table-       Christmas (food-related) traditions from around the world -       Two super simple recipes-       Get ahead tips before Christmas arrives-       PLUS a lovely giveaway (enter at @bethkempton on Instagram)With inspiration from:@auriolb @dianahenryfood @lisanieschlag @larswentrup @sam__dixon @gizzierskine @nigelslater @nigellalawson @jamieoliver @dethample, Delia Smith @housebeautifuluk @housebeautifulHandy links:·      Help yourself to the Christmas Meal Planner in my FREE Calm Christmas Planner here ·      House Beautiful cracker making tutorial ·      Click here to book your FREE place on my Winter Writing Sanctuary ·      Up to 50% off all my writing and personal development courses in my winter sale hereThis week's giveaway·      Chance to win a copy of Winter Wellness by Rachel de Thample and a personalized signed copy of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year over on @bethkempton on Instagram Full shownotes here.Beth Xx

Become a Friend of the Show! – join our Patreon communityGet cozy and join us as we share our holiday favorites! Plus a pine-scented candle sniff test and review, and a favorites lightening round.Mentioned on the show:Our episode Everyday and Divine FeminismKlaus8-Bit ChristmasCalm Christmas and a Happy New YearIn A HolidazeAmazing PeaceWhen Santa Was A BabyThe Nutcracker of HarlemChristmas in KillarneyPass Me A PintCup of Jo gifts guidesNew York Magazine gift guidesSausage balls (thanks for the rec, Joanna!)Jingle Juice: Fresca, vodka (if you'd like), cranberry juice. Garnish with cranberries and rosemary.... click over to our show notes for the remaining links! Become a Friend of the Show! – join our Patreon communityConnect with us on Instagram: @higirlsnextdoorSee show notes on our website: girlnextdoorpodcast.comWe love to get your emails: higirlsnextdoor@gmail.comYour reviews on Apple Podcasts really help the show - thank you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our year in books, 2023We share the highs and lows of our reading year as well as our favorite books in various categories.Life latelyAbby loves her new Pact sweaters.Sarah is cozying up with the Calm Christmas podcast.Reading latelyAbby read the spicy romance novel (set in Bloomington!) How Not to Fall by Emily Foster.Sarah read Michelle Huneven's novel Search.Eating latelySarah made cranberry orange bread and Abby wants you all to know about shrimp toast.If you'd like to join in the conversation, please leave us a comment, email us at friendlierpodcast@gmail.com, or find us on Instagram @friendlierpodcast. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me & author Beth Kempton as we indulge ourselves in CHRISTMAS! You can find the book Calm Christmas & A Happy New Year here, which is the PERFECT gift!You can listen to the book for FREE with a 30 day Audible trial (cancel anytime) Or you can join the book club bitches this December as we navigate the festive season & have an intentional, joyful, calm Christmas. As always, you can find me livin ma life on the gram at: www.instagram.com/francescaamberwww.instagram.com/lawofattractionchangedmylife You can find all of Beth's info here: •Instagram @bethkempton•The Calm Christmas Podcast on Apple / Spotify https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-calm-christmas-podcast-with-beth-kempton/id1537869969 https://open.spotify.com/show/3iOSsewJQRmRCw8Kg1ryjk •My other books include Wabi Sabi: Japanese wisdom for a perfectly imperfect life https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wabi-Sabi-Japanese-Perfectly-Imperfect/dp/0349421005 •Inspiring courses to help you do what you love and make the most of this precious life at dowhatyouloveforlife.comThank you for listening & have a CALM, NOURISHING & INTENTIONAL December. Sorry, I can see how those caps look like I'm threatening you with a good Christmas now ha ha! But have a good one! Fran x Join today for twice monthly Manifest With The Moon episodes every new and full moon. https://plus.acast.com/s/loacml. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a particular kind of joy in the simple act of curling up in an armchair with a book on a winter's day, or going to a café with nothing to do but take in the next chapter, or going to bed early and sitting up against soft pillows to read by lamplight. Words can be a real comfort in the darkest of seasons - both those we read and those we write. I hope this episode inspires you to pull down a favourite book off the shelf and have a read, or perhaps treat yourself to some poetry, or a new story, or a self-help book that is going to carry you through the winter. I also hope it is going to inspire you to get out your notebook and write some of your own words, as the fire crackles and the tree lights flicker.This episode includes:Wintery words to inspire youLots of cosy reading recommendations Inspiration for writing as a tool for wellbeingNature cornerChristmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)Get ahead tips as Christmas edges closerPLUS A lovely cosy giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)With inspiration from Peter Hennessy, Josephine Greywoode, Alexandra Harris, Jane McMorland Hunter @alittlecitygarden, Tom Hennen, Phyllis Cole-Dai, Ruby R Wilson, Horatio Clare @horatiowrites, Nancy Campbell, Kevin Parr, @MattBakerOfficial, @FrancescaBeauman, Ono no Komachi, @SandrineBailly, Kim Simonsen, Randi Ward, Chris McCabe @mccabio1977, Freddie Jones, Andrew McRae, Robert Bridges, @Mark_Nepo, Elizabeth Jenner, @NationalTrust, Greg Loades @hull_urban_gardener, Shawn Bythell @bookshopwigtown, @cheftimanderson @hollyringland @therosiewalsh @mattzhaig, Muriel Barbery, Jenny Colgan @jennycolganwriter @jennycolganbooks, Joanne Harris @joannechocolat.PS See the full show notes here for recipe ingredients and other links. Lovely things for you:·      Read my how to write a haiku essay and subscribe for free at https://bethkempton.substack.com·      CLICK HERE to download the free Calm Christmas Planner ·      CLICK HERE to register for my Winter Writing Sanctuary (Dec 28-Jan 6), also free this year ·      Get up to 50% off ALL my writing courses in my winter gratitude sale at https://dowhatyouloveforlife.com

This episode I will give you 3 tips for a calm Christmas - 1. Set an intention for Christmas, and plan in line with it. 2. Embrace the simple things. 3. Remember to nourish yourself, too! Tune in for your weekly dose of Divine-ology with Pip. Just 14 minutes of menopause mindset medicine. Just 14 minutes of inspiration. Just 14 minutes to bring the divine into your day! Pip Coleman is a Divine-ologist, Author, Reiki Master and she specializes in coaching women to manage their unique mind-body-spirit symptoms in the best way for them to thrive, so they can feel less overwhelmed, alone, crazy, and out of control and more confident, connected to their soul and emotionally realigned. Let's jump into the conversation. ------------------ Thanks for listening to the ALIGN WITH THE DIVINE PODCAST. I'd love it if you'd rate, review, and share this podcast with your fellow Earth Angels. This podcast is brought to you by The Divine Alignment Code™ coaching program – it's an amazing program specifically downloaded to serve YOU, my Earth Angel tribe, for when you're feeling lost, frustrated, and disconnected from your true Self. You'll remember how to feel confident, connect to your soul and integrate your understanding of spirituality into everyday life, to give you hope, certainty, peace, joy and meaning. You can find out more at www.pipcoleman.com Facebook: @pipcolemanauthorcoach / Instagram: @pipcoleman_menopausecoach Book a complimentary Divine Discovery phone call (or zoom) here: https://pipcoleman.simplybook.me/v2/#book/category/7/count/1/

Hey, thank you so much for joining me again this week.Remember you can get a HUGE 50% off site-wide on my website this Black Friday weekend, use code BLACKFRIDAYIf you want to join us in the book club, we are reading Calm Christmas & A Happy New Year by Beth Kempton starting 1st December. It's going to be one hell of a cosy, hygge, festive read - join us here!If you love the idea of reading but audio works better for you, you can listen to the book via a FREE, cancel anytime 30 day trial of Audible. As always, you can find me on the gram being a basic bitch and posting too much: www.instagram.com/francescaamberwww.instagram.com/lawofattractionchangedmylife Thanks for listening & I will see you next week! Fran xxx Join today for twice monthly Manifest With The Moon episodes every new and full moon. https://plus.acast.com/s/loacml. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know it is scientifically proven that decorating for Christmas can actually make you happier? Oh yes my friends, it is in the interests of our health that we get those fairy lights up... With the weather getting chillier outside, it is the perfect time to start thinking about how to make our homes festive and cosy, and a sanctuary of wellbeing and rest for the winter. This episode includes:Lots of ideas for decorating in a way that engages all the senses, and brings nature indoors.Wellbeing tips for inviting in restNature cornerA beautiful writing prompt for connecting with the moonA fun and super easy crafting project to tryChristmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)Recipes for hot drinks to bring joy, and nourishGet ahead tips before December arrivesPLUS A lovely cosy giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)With inspiration from Christopher Yokel, @realsimplemagazine, Lucy Hunter @theflowerhunter, Bex Partridge of @botanical_tales, Grace Alexander of @graceaexanderflowers, @piajanebijkerk, Ark Redwood, Lisa Hood, Lisa Hood @lahoodyoga, Lizzie Kamenetzky @deliciouslizzie, @marinawrightwellness, Anja Dunk, @StEvalCandles and @royalmuseumsgreenwich.PS See the full show notes here for recipe ingredients and other links.Lovely free things for you:·      CLICK HERE to download my free simple guide to making a wreath x·      CLICK HERE to download the free Calm Christmas Planner ·      CLICK HERE to register for my Winter Writing Sanctuary (Dec 28-Jan 6), also free this year Featured in this episode:·      Cold by Christopher Yokel in Winter Poems: New and Selected by Christopher Yokel (self-published) p.9·      The Flower Hunter: Creating a floral love story inspired by the landscape by Lucy Hunter (Ryland Peters Small) p.197·      The Everyday Alchemist's Festive Season Reimagined by Pia Jane Bijkerk (self-published) p.32·      The Art of Mindful Gardening: Sowing the Seeds of Meditation by Ark Redwood (Leaping Hare Press) p.113·      Moon Yoga by Lisa Hood (Godsfield) p.63·      Winter Cabin Cooking by Lizzie Kamanetzky (Ryland, Peters & Small) p.7 and p.166·      Advent: Festive German Bakes to Celebrate the Coming of Christmas by Anja Dunk (Quadrille) p.4 and p.199·      Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A little book of fe

Today is all about mindful gifting. Listen to this before Black Friday hits! It's almost impossible to think about Christmas without thinking about presents, and I know it's still early, but starting to think about mindful gifting now can save us stress, save us money, help us give things that will genuinely bring joy, and give us time to enjoy the process of dreaming up ideas, making or buying, wrapping them and delivering them in good time.This episode includes:Why being more mindful about gifting at Christmas can be good for our mental health as well as our walletsWhat kind of conversations to have now to make gifting easier and more joyfulWhat we are doing in my house to spend less but bring more joyMy three gifting guideposts (they will save you wasting your precious money on presents that people don't actually want)The joy of advent calendarsNature cornerChristmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)A great recipe from Mark Diacono that makes a fab gift + my own homemade granola recipe (back by popular demand!)A fab giveaway worth £700 (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)With inspiration from:@ ArounnaKhounnoraj @countrylivinguk @noor_unnahar @emilysilva @Mark Diacono @editbyemily (Emily Dawe)Lovely things for you:·      The FREE Calm Christmas Planner (a little book of festive printables which includes my unusual but highly effective approach to budgeting, plus tons of mindful gift ideas)·      My Winter Writing Sanctuary 10-day FREE online writing class Beth XxPS See the full show notes here for recipe ingredients etc. If you are worried about money call the National Debtline in the UK on 0808 808 4000 or seek out a similar organisation in your country.Featured in this episode:Winter Celebrations by Arounna Khounnoraj (Quadrille) Country Living Country Christmas by Francine Lawrence (Editor) (Ebury) [List of Everything I Want by Noor Unnahar in New Names for Lost Things by Noor Unnahar (Andrews McMeel) Sunrise Gratitude by Emily Silva (Rock Point) Paper Christmas by Emily Dawe (Search Press) Spice: A cook's companion by Mark Diacono (Quadrille) Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton (Piatkus) 

It's here, my 2023 Christmas Gift Guide! I'm taking a really different approach to gifting this year and I've been so inspired by the book, Calm Christmas which I quote in this episode.As promised, all the links are below for all the items in the guide. I forgot to say in the ep, but if you want a huge 50% off all planners and gratitude necklaces on my website use code GIFTGUIDEPOD hereGratitude NecklacesDaily & Weekly PlannersThe Hygge GameOMG I found the question book I bought in LA and LOVE!The Hygge HomeCalm Christmas & A Happy New YearThe Women's CircleSacred SeasonsThe Monocle Book Of Gentle LivingSoho House Coffee Table BooksBig Life Journal - Kids Claw Machine of Dreams Ticket For My 2024 Goal Setting PartyManifesting CandlesThank you so much for joining me again this week, you can find me on insta at:www.instagram.com/francescaamberwww.instagram.com/lawofattractionchangedmylifeSee you next week, Fran xxx Join today for twice monthly Manifest With The Moon episodes every new and full moon. https://plus.acast.com/s/loacml. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The modern world calls us on us to be visible, to be sociable, to be ‘out there' and tell everyone about it, not to mention to fill our days rushing from one thing to the next to keep up with everything society makes us feel we should be doing, nevermind the pressure from advertisers to create the perfect Christmas, and the knowledge that we are soon to be bombarded by visions of other people's perfect Christmases online in the coming months, and it is a lot. This year I want to entertain the idea of giving ourselves permission to be less visible if we want to, less sociable if we want to, more ‘in here' than ‘out there' when that feels good, and to slow right down, and to do less, in a way which feels like more, without feeling guilty about it.That's why, before we dive into all the chaos of the festive season, and all the joyful themes coming up on the podcast, like gift giving, festive feasting, gathering and more, I wanted to take the time to do a whole episode on nourishing ourselves – mind, body and soul. This includes asking for, and receiving, what we need at this time of year, even if that isn't what society wants us to want, because it does not fit the commercial agenda, or the plans of our loudest friends, or anyone's expectations. Welcome to The Calm Christmas Podcast. I am Beth Kempton and this is Episode 2: Candlelight Carol, which is all about radical winter wellbeing.This episode includes:·      Why retreating is a good idea ·      Practical ways to nourish yourself in winter·      Our regular nature corner·      Christmas traditions from around the world (including several shared by listeners!)·      A lovely simple crafting project that might even become a Christmas gift for someone·      Two lovely recipes (hello nourishment!)·      Get ahead tips and more!With inspiration from @brie.doyle, @tracee_stanley, @davidjwhyte, @silverpebble2 (Emma Mitchell), @bonniesmithwhitehouse, @deliciouslyella, @ellamills__, @nancyhachisu, Fiona Danks, Jo Schofield, Elizabeth Jenner, and Emily Thomas. Lovely things for you:·      GIVEAWAY - ! This week I am giving away a very special gift for YOU AND A FRIEND! It includes some beautiful solid skincare from my friends at SBTRCT along with a personalized, signed copy of my book Calm Christmas for EACH of you. Hop over to Instagram @bethkempton to enter. If you are listening to this after the giveaway deadline, don't worry. I am going to be doing various lovely giveaways each week up to Christmas so there will be something waiting there for you!·      CALM CHRISTMAS PLANNER – Download yours for free here (if link is broken go to dowhatyouloveforlife.com)I hope this podcast will help you locate Christmas as an anchor in the stormy seas of winter in this world right now.Take good care,Beth(@bethkempton on Instagram / bethkempton.substack.com / dowhatyouloveforlife.com)All show notes with book and article references etc and ingredients for recipes can be found here.

Come on in out of the wind, my friend. I am so glad you found this old cottage, hidden away as it is in a small village in the South West of England. Come on through to the kitchen, pull up a chair. There are gingerbread stars fresh out of the oven and steaming tea in the pot. How have you been, my friend? I am so glad you are here and I've got so much to share with you.What a joy it is to welcome you to a third season of The Calm Christmas Podcast, timed just as autumn turns to leave and in its shadow offers us a glimpse of winter. Here on the podcast we trace the turning of the seasons in nature and in our minds and hearts, we seek out ways to be more mindful about the approaching holidays, and I offer inspiration and tips for using this time to rest and restore after another full year. This third season is all about seeking slow.This episode includes:·      The importance of slowing down for making the most of the holidays and for taking care of ourselves·      Tips for slowing down·      Allotment chit chat and our regular nature corner·      Christmas traditions from around the world (including several shared by listeners!)·      An autumnal crafting project·      Two lovely autumnal recipes·      Get ahead tips and more!Lovely things for you:·      GIVEAWAY - To be in with the chance of winning a copy of Rosie Steer's gorgeous new book Slow Seasons and a personalised, signed copy of Calm Christmas by me, Beth Kempton, enter on Instagram @bethkempton (deadline 4pm UK time on Sunday 12 November)·      CALM CHRISTMAS PLANNER – Download yours for free here (if link is broken go to dowhatyouloveforlife.com)I hope this podcast will help you locate Christmas as an anchor in the stormy seas of winter in this world right now.For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year go to bethkempton.com/christmas or buy a copy from Amazon or any good bookshop. Or why not get the audiobook and listen to one chapter a week up to and through the holiday season? Take good care, Beth (@bethkempton on Instagram / bethkempton.substack.com / dowhatyouloveforlife.com)Featured in this episode:·      Reading from Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A little book of festive joy by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)p.15 / US edition here (Scribner)  ·      Research about the health benefits of bananas hereIngredients for recipes shared can be found here.

Thank you so much for joining me again this week! Links as promised below: New Year's Goal Setting tickets, Book Club & more: www.francescaamber.comCalm Christmas book: https://amzn.to/40ob6TtA Hygge book for good measure because now is PREMIUM hygge time! https://amzn.to/49jtDEkSAD Lamp: https://amzn.to/3SrC7mORate, review and subscribe if you can & I'll see you next week. Love, Fran xx Join today for twice monthly Manifest With The Moon episodes every new and full moon. https://plus.acast.com/s/loacml. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Needs Mom - How to have an awesome start of the year, your goals or anything really. In episode 79 of the Special Needs Supermom Podcast I talk about why I go into and love hibernating during the week between Christmas and New Year; how I don't like to start the year with a bang; how I don't come up with excuses to stay of the grid (and neither should you) and how I have an awesome start of the year thanks to my experience with burnout, ADHD therapy, peri-menopause and Long Covid. Getting older really helps with that! O and Mel Robbins podcast as well! Stay sane Stay happy  Nadine Need help slowing down? Listen to The Calm Christmas podcast with Beth Kempton (yes even in summer): https://podcasts.apple.com/nl/podcast/the-calm-christmas-podcast-with-beth-kempton/id1537869969 Wanna finally set goals that really matter to you and how to stick to them? Listen to The Mel Robbins Podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/nl/podcast/the-mel-robbins-podcast/id1646101002 Need some more help to find and recharge your superpowers? Check your resources here:-        www.specialneedssupermompodcast.com -        IG: @specialneedssupermompodcast -        FB: www.facebook.com/specialneedssupermompodcast*Supermom tribeLooking for a private tribe just for fellow special needs moms to hang out, share stories, laugh, cry, get inspired, share tips and keep sane? Join the private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedssupermoms *Conquer timeNeed help going from never ending to-do lists to creating time for yourself? Check out the Special Needs Supermom Planner: https://www.etsy.com/nl/shop/Specialsupermom*Sponsors and partnershipEmail specialneedssupermompodcast@gmail.com for sponsor opportunities and partnership possibilities. 

We reflect on the past year and discuss our words of the year, how it went in several categories, and do a lightning round of 2022 favorites.Life latelySarah and her family took an awesome train trip to California, and Abby is struggling with the transition away from school. Reading latelySarah listened to Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton, and Abby enjoyed The Stand-In by Lily Chu.Eating latelyAbby made an autumn sangria (subbing champagne for white wine and bourbon for brandy) on Thanksgiving, and Sarah and her family ate plenty of dessert in the dining car on their train trip.If you'd like to join in the conversation, please leave us a comment on our show notes, email us at friendlierpodcast@gmail.com, or find us on Instagram @friendlierpodcast. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode we are exploring what it means to live a flourishing writing life, practically, emotionally and spiritually. It includes:-     The relationship between money and writing-     My guideposts for the writing path-     PLUS a special message for youI hope this podcast will help you write fearlessly, and with joy, and build a writing practice that nourishes you for the rest of your life. I'd love to see what writing it inspires – feel free to share by tagging me @bethkempton #fearlesswriterpodcastBethXxPS Please note there is a chunk of silence in this podcast. It is supposed to be there for the weekly writing exercise!Click here to download the transcriptThe theme music for The Fearless Writer Podcast is The River sung by Danni Nicholls, co-written by Danni Nicholls and me, Beth Kempton. Listen on iTunes / Spotify / Youtube and feel free to add it to your Instagram reels! See here for the lyrics and full credits.***Did you know the audiobook version of The Way of the Fearless Writer includes a full meditation album to help get the words flowing? You can get it here. Resources mentioned in this episode:• The Way of the Fearless Writer by Beth Kempton (Piatkus). US/Canada edition HERE.• Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)•Writing As a Way of Healing by Louise DeSalvo (The Women's Press) p.73•Becoming Wise by Krista Tippett (Penguin) p.266•Benedictus by John O'Donohue (Bantam Press) p.204• Lifesongs by Steve Thorp p.39More at bethkempton.com / dowhatyouloveforlife.com / Instagram 

Hello hello, welcome to Episode 75 of Life on the Brink!Somehow, crazily enough, it is Christmastime again! Wow, this is such a special time and every year I look forward to it. It's a time to enjoy those around us, to celebrate with gifts and food and prayers of thankfulness, and is indeed magical. However, this season can also be a great source of stress. This is Part Two of Reducing Holiday Stress, and is inspired by Beth Kempton's book "Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year" by Beth Kempton.This episode is all about:-finding the holiday traditions that are really important to you  -letting go of what Christmas "should look like"-simple ways to slow down and reduce stress during the season-opportunities to give and receive help and compassion...and lots more.Plus, this week's Little Joy is a happy moment that signaled this new Christmas season, and I'm sharing an instrumental album of Christmas-inspired instrumental tracks.For the complete show notes, click here!For full transcript, click here!Site: lifeonthebrink.liveSocial: @anna_on_the_keys

*We'll be hosting a live online Holiday Hangout for Friends of the Show on Saturday, December 3. Details are posted on our Patreon page. We hope to see you there!*Become a Friend of the Show! – join our Patreon communityGet cozy and join us for Part 2 of our festive, honest, and fun Holiday Home series! Today we're chatting about creating holiday magic, nostalgia and emotions, and being present during the season.Mentioned on the show:Pour and Feed indoor plant fertilizerThe Best Pimiento Cheese!Kelsey's reusable felt advent calendarCalm Christmas and a Happy New YearCar trash canVictrola Empire record player Become a Friend of the Show! – join our Patreon communityConnect with us on Instagram: @higirlsnextdoorSee show notes on our website: girlnextdoorpodcast.comWe love to get your emails: higirlsnextdoor@gmail.comYour reviews on Apple Podcasts really help the show - thank you!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beth Kempton is an author, Reiki Master, yoga teacher, traveller, mentor and Mama! She is the author of five books and has been translated into 25 different languages. She's featured in magazines such as TIME, British Vogue, Psychologies, The Simple Things (where I first met her) and The Sunday Time (amongst so many more). One of Beth's courses (Excavate Your Life) is one of the reasons that I'm on a sabbatical right now. Speaking to Beth was an absolute joy and this conversation is full of wisdom. I hope you enjoy it too. Find Beth at bethkempton.com and on Instagram as @Bethkempton Listen to Calm Christmas and her new The Way of the Fearless Writer podcasts at bethkempton.com/podcast

Christmas is coming. Can you feel it in the air? I can, and I love that feeling. And it's why I am here with you again, for a special edition of the Calm Christmas Podcast.  Rather than a whole series this year, to honour my own need for proper rest this winter I have created you a bumper special episode, to help you settle in to a cosy winter. This one is longer than usual at almost an hour, so get yourself a hot cuppa, or pull on your boots and head out for a lovely long walk as you listen. This episode includes the most important question to ask yourself right now, a host of journaling prompts, our nature corner, recipes, wellbeing ideas and tips for getting ahead for Christmas.With inspiration from Nigel Slater, John D Burns, Edward Step, Melissa Harrison, Clare Foster, Andrew Montgomery, Lia Leendertz, Jody Vassallo, Mark Diacono, Keratin Niehoff, Laura Fleiter, James Martin, Paul Hollywood and BBC Good Food.I hope this podcast will help you locate Christmas as an anchor in the stormy seas of winter in this world right now.GIVEAWAY: To be in with the chance of winning a copy of Spice by Mark Diacono and a personalised, signed copy of Calm Christmas by Beth Kempton, enter on Instagram @bethkempton (deadline midnight UK time on Friday December 2) Take good care, Beth Featured in this episode:- Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton (Piatkus) - The Christmas Chronicles by Nigel Slater (4th Estate) - Wild Winter by John D Burns (Vertebrate Publishing) -  Edward Step in Nature Rambles: An Introduction to Country-lore, 1930, in Winter: An anthology for the changing seasons edited by Melissa Harrison (Elliott & Thompson)- Winter Gardens by Clare Foster and Andrew Montgomery (Montgomery Press) - The Almanac 2022 by Lia Leendertz (Gaia) - The Yogic Kitchen by Jody Vassalo (HQ) - Spice: A cook's companion by Mark Diacono (Quadrille) -  Advent by Kerstin Niehoff and Laura Fleiter (Murdoch) - The Fearless Writer Podcast - James Martin's homemade mincemeat recipe / Paul Hollywood's mince pie recipe Ingredients for recipes shared are available here. Transcript available here.

“It's not selfish, but selfless to be first, to be as good as possible to you, to take care of you, to keep you whole and healthy, that doesn't mean that you disregard everything and everyone, but you gotta keep your cup full.” ~Iyanla Vanzant~ As the holidays arrive, an array of hustling and bustling will soon fill the atmosphere. Many people will feel anxious and in a rush to get things done. But what if you decide to push pause and slow down to revel in making your needs, wants, and desires a priority this holiday season? I believe when you put yourself first, everything else falls into place. In this episode, I discuss prioritizing your well-being and how you can change the narrative of what comes first in your life. Here is the book mention in this episode: Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton If you desire to continue your journey of healing, wholeness and living an unapologetic life head to www.theinspirationalcorner.net .

We're in the midpoint of our Untraditional Traditions series, and we want to ask all of you listeners to consider something; what kind of Christmas do you want or need this year?  Maybe it's a riotous, celebratory Christmas with tons of gatherings and activities, a frenzy of lights and shopping and cooking and more. But perhaps some of us might be feeling a bit tethered to the way we've always done it—and the notion of a calm Christmas sounds nothing short of divine (and kudos to you all who have found the joy of this already). Perhaps you feel like you don't really have a choice as to what kind of Christmas you have, as you've been the “keeper of Christmas” for your family and friends for so long, but our guest this week is here to tell us otherwise. Beth Kempton is a writer, a mother and has been obsessed with Christmas since she was a little girl. After one particularly stressful Christmas when her children were small (and she and her husband decided that neither of them really liked turkey) Beth began to realize that Christmas could be what she wanted it to be (sans turkey, for one!), and she started spreading that message—namely through her book “Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year.” She and Jen talk through the 5 “stories” of Christmas and which one they identify with most, they discuss when Christmas is hard and how to help yourself and others when that's the case, and the comfort and joy of letting yourself be free of anyone else's Christmas expectations and choosing the kind of season that is nurturing instead of draining. * * * Thank you to our sponsors! StoryWorth | Give the gift of preserved memories at storyworth.com/forthelove to save $10 on your first purchase!  For the Love's 2022 Gift Guide | Save on gifts that give back this holiday season!    Thought-Provoking Quotes “I think the reason it's so important to think carefully about Christmas is because it's not just Christmas Day, it's the whole of winter. It's the season that sets us up for the year that follows. The impact on our mental health can be enormous.” - Beth Kempton “Isn't it interesting that you turn to the symbols of Christmas–the tree, the lights, whatever–as comfort in a really difficult time? And I know it's up to everyone when they put the tree up, but I'm totally the same. If that brings you joy, why not extend it as much as you can?” - Beth Kempton “When we find the quiet, it's so much easier to connect with the wisdom that we already hold and often don't even realize. I think somehow our heart is way ahead of our mind in terms of what we know, what we need to know.” - Beth Kempton “One of the things that I was really shocked by was how many people that I spoke to–I would say more than 80%--had a very sad story connected with Christmas in some way.” - Beth Kempton   Guest's Links Beth's Website Beth's Instagram Beth's Facebook Beth Kempton's podcast The Way of the Fearless Writer: Ancient Eastern wisdom for a flourishing writing life    Resources Mentioned in This Episode Book: Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton Book: The Way of the Fearless Writer by Beth Kempton   Connect with Jen!Jen's website Jen's Instagram Jen's Twitter Jen's Facebook Jen's YouTube  

Enjoy this Calming Christmas music, relax to this gentle piano music with a cosy crackling fireplace, perfect to help you unwind in a hectic festive season, while still enjoying some Christmas spirit. Relaxing music for 2 hours. Please only listen in a place where you can safely sleep. Subscribe to our sister podcast, Sleep Cove, with Sleep Hypnosis, Meditations and Sleep Stories: https://link.chtbl.com/Ks2ccth7 NEW!!! Get ad-free and no-intro episodes including bonus content! Visit https://www.sleepcove.com/support and become a Premium Member Today!!! Become a Patreon supporter here https://www.patreon.com/SleepCove Get a Bonus Sleep Meditation Video by joining the Newsletter here - https://www.sleepcove.com/bonus/ Subscribe on YouTube here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAn9gSxKG8geTylC1O1bxCw Facebook Group here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/929637904095962/ All Content by Sleep Cove does not provide or replace professional medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your medical professional before making any changes to your treatment and if in any doubt contact your doctor. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/sleepsoundssc/support

Ease yourself through the holiday preparations with this gentle episode all about rest, including a host of ideas for taking care of yourself as winter moves in. With inspiration from Liza Dalby (@lizadalby), Jilly Shipway, Shiva Rea (@shivarea108), Lucy Brazier (@brazier.lucy), Claudia Hammond (@claudie_hammond_), Gareth Owen, Katherine May (@katherinemay_) and Sonoko Sakai (@sonokosakai).Featured in this episode:East Wind Melts the Ice by Liza Dalby (Chatto & Windus)Tending the Heart Fire by Shiva Rea (Sounds True) Yoga Through the Year by Jilly Shipway  (Llewelyn)River Cottage Christmas by Lucy Brazier (Bloomsbury)The Art of Rest by Claudia Hammond  (Canongate)Wabi Sabi: Japanese wisdom for a perfectly imperfect life by Beth Kempton (Piatkus) Winter Days by Gareth Owen in The Oxford Book of Christmas Poems edited by Michael Harrison (Oxford University Press) Wintering by Katherine May Japanese Home Cooking by Sonoko Sakai (Shambala)Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)Jennifer Piercy's Melatonin Magic yoga nidra meditation is here on Insight Timer.  You can download a FREE copy of The Perfectly Imperfect 2022 Digital Planner here, to help you reflect on the year and look ahead to 2022. Ingredients for the featured recipe (makes 4 servings)•   3.5 cups or 830ml dashi stock - there are wonderful recipes for making your own dashi in the book, but you can also buy it as stock from places like the Japan Centre.•   3 tablespoons of white or red miso•   2 oz (57g) mushrooms of your choice, stems removed and sliced 1/4 inch or 6mm thick•   4oz (113g) soft or medium-firm tofu, cut into 1/4 inch (6mm) dice•   1 teaspoon yuzu or lemon peel, pith removedYou can buy dashi stock from Japanese supermarkets and stores such as japancentre.com.To be in with a chance of winning a signed copy Wintering by Katherine May and a signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday December 17, 2021. 

A lovely, relaxing episode to ease you into a place of restfulness this winter, including a beautiful meditation, some gorgeous winter poetry, and some tips for finding calm in the chaos. With inspiration from Hakuin, Brian Patton, Roger McGough, Mark Strand, the Royal Horticultural Society (@the_rhs), Joey Hulin (@joeyhulin_writer), Isobel Carlson, Donna Hay (@donna.hay), and Country Living (@countrylivinguk).Featured in this episode: Untitled poem by Hakuin from Three Zen Masters by John Stevens (Kodansha)Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)First Snow in the Street by Brian Patton in 100 Best Christmas Poems for Children, edited by Roger McGough  (SPCK Publishing)Lines for Winter by Mark Strand in Poem for the Day Two edited by Retta Bowen, Nick Temple, Stephanie Wienrich and Nicholas Albery (Chatto & Windus) Your Spiritual Almanac by Joey Hulin  (Laurence King)RHS Gardening Through the Year by Ian Spence (DK) The Seaside Year by Isobel Carlson (Summersdale)Country Living Christmas (magazine) Christmas Feasts and Treats by Donna Hay  (Harper Collins)Ingredients for the featured recipe (Rocky Road)Makes six1kg of dark chocolate (chopped)2 tablespoons vegetable oil130g sweetened dried cranberries 200g marshmallows250g Turkish Delight pieces50g of coconut flakes 140g of shelled unsalted pistachios, choppedTo be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of Your Spiritual Almanac by Joey Hulin and a signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday December 10, 2021. 

This episode is all about nesting – getting your home and heart ready for the winter, with natural Christmas decorations, and ideas for mindful crafting. With inspiration from Laurie Lee, Ariella Chezar (@ariellachezardesign), Lucy Hunter @lucytheflowerhunter, Truman Capote, Lizzie Kamenetzky, Cleo Wade @cleowade, The Royal Horticultural Society (@the_rhs), and my mum!Featured in this episode:A Village Christmas and Other Notes on the English Year by Laurie Lee (Penguin Classics)Seasonal Flower Arranging by Ariella Chezar  (Ten Speed Press)The Flower Hunter by Lucy Hunter (Ryland, Peters & Small)Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton (Piatkus)A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote in The Penguin Book of Christmas Stories edited by Jessica Harrison Winter Cabin Cooking by Lizzie Kamenetzky (Ryland, Peters & Small)Heart Talk by Cleo Wade (Atria)Slow Down and Grow Something by Byron Smith and Tess Robinson (Murdoch)Download my free guide to creating a wreath HERE  and ideas for other natural decorations HERE. To be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of The Flower Hunter by Lucy Hunter and a signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday December 3, 2021. Ingredients list for featured recipes:Salt dough-       1 cup of plain flour-       Half a cup of table salt-       Half a cup of water French onion soupServes 4-       25g unsalted butter-       3 tablespoons olive oil-       1kg large onions, very thinly sliced-       250ml dry white wine-       1 litre rich beef stock - or you could replace with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version-       Freshly grated nutmeg-       A small handful of fresh thyme sprigs-       2 fresh bay leaves-       75ml good quality Madeira-       1 day old baguette or other crusty bread, cut into slices-       1 garlic clove-       150g Comte cheese, grated (or you could use a vegetarian cheese)-       Sea salt and ground black pepper

It's time to dive into Christmas gifting, with a host of ideas for mindful, meaningful gifts and some innovative ways to wrap your presents to surprise and delight. We have inspiration from JRR Tolkien, Michelle Mackintosh, Hollie McNish, Laura Pashby, Laura Fleiter and Kerstin Niehoff, and some lovely festive projects to try. Let this episode inspire you to give more love while spending less money and creating less waste this year.Featured in this episode:Letters from Father Christmas by JRR Tolkien edited by Baillie TolkienSustainable Gifting by Michelle MackintoshBehind the Scenes in Nobody Told Me by Hollie McNishCalm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth KemptonLittle Stories of Your Life by Laura PashbyAdvent by Laura Fleiter and Kerstin NiehoffIngredients list for featured recipe (Serves 1)2 bananas1 apple½ teaspoon ground cinnamon2 tablespoons milk1 tablespoon quick-cooking oats2 teaspoons almond butter3 pitted dates2 spiced spekuloos biscuits, like Lotus biscuits1 tsp dried cranberriesThis is your LAST CHANCE to join the Winter Writing Sanctuary which started on Monday November 22 2021. It's a FREE two-week online writing course, and you might just love it. Find out more here and join us asap so you don't miss too much of class! https://dowhatyouloveforlife.com/course/winter-writing-sanctuary-live-2021If you want inspiration and guidance for doing what you love in the year ahead, don't miss our huge annual sale with up to 50% off online courses at Dowhatyouloveforlife.com. Ends soon!And lastly, to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Little Stories of Your Life by Laura Pashby and a signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday November 26, 2021.Have a great week! Beth 

Hello Mama who is already dreading the overwhelm that comes with the holidays…Welcome to Episode 7 of MomVision. This is the second episode in a three-week series called Cultivating Calm this Christmas I'm going to talk about how to cultivate calm throughout this season so you can have a Christmas you actually enjoy. Let me tell you a story…Several years ago, two of my four daughters were home for the Thanksgiving holiday. The days of everyone being home under one cozy roof were over. I was holding on tight to whatever I could, including our beloved time-honored non-negotiable Christmas traditions. One of those traditions was cutting down our own Christmas tree. “Hon, are you sure this is the right thing? It's awfully early…the tree will be dead before Christmas…and the weather is getting pretty bad,” my husband had the nerve to utter. “What are you talking about? If you think I'm giving up cutting down the tree this year, you're wrong. We are cutting down the tree TODAY!” I responded. My husband continued his campaign to stop this nonsense. I dug in my heels further. There was a lot of emotion, spoken or not, swirling around that minivan as we drove toward the tree farm. There was also a little problem…and it was unnerving even to dogged and determined me. It was getting dark. And the weather was rainy and even a little icy. But we had come too far to turn back now. “Mom, I have to get back home soon. I have a paper due on Monday and my ride is leaving early tomorrow.” “Yeah, hon, the weather's getting worse. I think we need to turn around.” Said my husband.Maybe it was time to turn back. It was actually sleeting as we continued on this pitch-dark road.“Oh wait, right there, on the left.” There was no farmer or sales clerk or tree tie-er upper. It was a pretty bleak little tree farm. With a quick phone call we were told we could leave our money for the tree in a mailbox outside the barn. The rain turned to driving sleet, the wind whipped through the tree farm, it was dark, freezing…it was ridiculous. My husband insisted I stay in the warm car, while my family trudged through the icy field holding a flashlight. After about 15 minutes, my family returned cold, drenched, and in surprisingly good spirits. They were laughing as they sputtered,“Mom, you don't want one of those trees! They're way too small and we're way too cold. We can't see a thing!”So what's the moral of this little story? Say no! Say no to the unnecessary extras during the holidays that add stress. And you'll be saying yes to a happier holiday season!I've got a challenge for you mama. What will you say no to this year? Take inventory of all you do to make Christmas perfect. Write down a list of “all the things.” Then choose one or more things you won't be doing this year. Come join me over on Instagram @elisedalyparker and let me know your no. Oh Lord, thank you that you never tire of teaching us even in the midst of our stubbornness. Help us Lord to keep our priorities straight. Christmas really is about you, Jesus, and your humble birth. Show us how to let go of the traditions and to-dos that we believe are essential but really aren't. Give each mama praying this prayer an idea of a no that she can say that will bring her greater joy and peace this holiday season. I ask this in Jesus' name amen!

Today's episode is inspired by festive food, but not in an obvious way. We explore what fermentation can teach us about Christmas, learn how to make hoshigaki (dried persimmons) and spelt digestives, and explore the tradition of Stir Up Sunday. This episode is packed with tips for nourishing yourself with food and herbal remedies this winter, along with some gorgeous wintery words from some of our finest writers. With inspiration from Yoshihiro Imai, Nigel Slater, Lucy Brazier, Good Housekeeping Magazine, Danna Faulds, Rebecca Sullivan, Lisa Nieschlag, Lars Wentrup, Gizzi Erskine, Diana Henry, Ella Mills, Rukmini Iyer, and Elizabeth David.To be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of River Cottage Christmas by Lucy Brazier and a signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday November 19, 2021. CLICK HERE to join the Winter Writing Sanctuary (my free two week writing course starting November 22, 2021)And if you want inspiration and guidance for doing what you love in the year ahead, don't miss our huge annual sale with up to 50% off online courses at Dowhatyouloveforlife.com, Makeartthatsells.com and Makeitindesign.com.Ingredients list for featured recipe (makes 16 biscuits):120 grams of cold unsalted butter, cubed120 grams of wholemeal spelt flour with a bit extra to dust120 grams of medium oatmeal or 60 grams of puffed quinoa 60 grams of soft brown sugar or 40 grams if you want a less sweet biscuit6g saltone teaspoon of baking powdera few drops of milk Featured in this episode:Monk: Light and shadow on the Philosopher's Path by Yoshihiro Imai Greenfeast (Autumn/Winter) by Nigel Slater The Christmas Chronicles by Nigel SlaterNew York Christmas: Recipes and Stories by Lisa Nieschlag and Lars Wentrup Nigella Christmas by Nigella Lawson Gizzi's Seasons Eatings by Gizzi Erskine From the Oven to the Table by Diana HenryQuick & Easy by Ella Mills The Green Roasting Tin by Rukmini Iyer Elizabeth David's Christmas by Elizabeth David River Cottage Christmas by Lucy Brazier

From watching starling murmurations to cooking up a vat of hot soup, from long wintery walks and forest bathing to practicing calming breathing exercises, this episode is full of ideas for gentle ways to slow down, inhale the season and exhale the stress. And with a host of get ahead tips to make sure your holiday preparations all come together in good time, you'll feel more ready than ever for the approaching winter. With inspiration from Nick Acheson, Melissa Harrison, Charles Dickens, Jilly Shipway and Ali Roff Farrar.Join the Winter Writing Sanctuary (my free two week writing course starting November 22, 2021, mentioned in this episode) HERE. To be in with a chance of winning a copy of Winter by Melissa Harrison and a personalised, signed copy of my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday November 12, 2021. Have a lovely weekBeth XxFeatured in this episode:·      Essay by Nick Acheson in Winter: An anthology for the changing seasons edited by Melissa Harrison ·      Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy by Beth Kempton·      Bleak House by Charles Dickens ·      Yoga Through the Year by Jilly Shipway·      The Wellfulness Project by Ali Roff Farrar 

I have loved Christmas since I was a child. The hopes of snow and flying reindeer, that special Christmassy feeling in the air. I still sense that as a grown up, but the festive season seems to come with a lot more pressure these days. This year, instead of trying to create the perfect Instagrammable Christmas, what if we just relaxed and focused on what really matters? Welcome to Season Two of the Calm Christmas podcast with bestselling self-help author Beth Kempton. This series is all about making the season special for less – less stress, less expense, less pressure… Episode 1 is on the theme of PREPARE and includes:A cosy introduction to The Calm Christmas PodcastPondering the question of what Christmas means to you – and to meSome beautiful wintery words from some of my favourite writers and poetsJournaling prompts for reflecting on your Christmas experiencesPlus our weekly nature corner, recipes, wellbeing ideas and tips for getting ahead for ChristmasI hope this podcast will help you locate Christmas as an anchor in the stormy seas of winter in this world right now. New episodes every Wednesday throughout November and December. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop! CLICK HERE to sign up for my FREE two-week writing course, the Winter Writing Sanctuary (runs Nov 22 – Dec 4 2021) For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year go to bethkempton.com/christmasTo be in with a chance of winning a signed copy of The Almanac 2022 by Lia Leendertz and my book Calm Christmas, head over to Instagram @bethkempton. The deadline for entries is 4pm UK time on Friday November 5, 2021. Take good care, Beth (@bethkempton on Instagram)Featured in this episode:·      Good Hours by Robert Frost, in A Mind of Winter edited by Robert Atwan·      We Can be Film Stars, Just for One Day by Sue Townsend in On Christmas: A seasonal anthology by Gyles Brandreth·      Of Calcutta, Christmas and New Year by Suhel Seth in On Christmas: A seasonal anthology by Gyles Brandreth ·      Introduction by Judith Flanders in Poems for Christmas·      Christmas: A biography by Judith Flanders ·      The Almanac: A seasonal guide to 2022  by Lia Leendertz ·      Royal Horticultural Society's Gardening Through The Year by Ian Spence·      East Wind Melts the Ice by Liza Dalby ·      Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton 

Welcome to 2021! Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and breathe it in. The freshness of the new year, in all its potential and possibility.Episode 12 includes:Why new year's resolutions are a waste of time, and why it's time for a New Year's RevolutionThree gentle yet powerful principles for entering the new year in an intentional yet stress-free wayA special Christmas wish for youDownload the transcript hereThe books mentioned in this podcast were: Desiderata of Happiness by Max Ehrmann / Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton / Freedom Seeker: Live more. Worry less. Do what you love. by Beth KemptonGet a free 2021 digital planner with any purchase of Calm Christmas - all details HERE.

These are the days in between. The liminal space that hovers beyond the festivities and before the fresh New Year. I call this time 'The Hush' and this episode is all about savouring it.Episode 11 includes:Ideas for making the most of this time between Christmas and New YearA couple of reflection questions as we round out 2020Some inspiring poetry to carry us into the new yearThe books mentioned in this podcast were: The Everyday Alchemist's Festive Season Reimagined by Pia Jane Bijkerk / Freedom: Medicine words for your brave revolution by Jaiya John / Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton / The Old Magic of Christmas by Linda RaedischGet a free 2021 digital planner with any purchase of Calm Christmas - all details HERE.

Do you love Christmas food but want to enjoy it without the stress this year? If so, tune into this week's mouthwatering episode for tips on stress-free festive food preparation, snippets from some of my favourite cookbooks, and a couple of recipes I love to make at home.Episode 8 includes:Top tips for stress-free festive food preparationDelicious words from some wonderful festive cookbooksRecipes for chocolate peppermint sticks and spiced mulled cider or apple juiceThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'The books mentioned in this podcast were:The Christmas Chronicles by Nigel Slater Elizabeth David's Christmas edited by Jill NormanNew York Christmas: Recipes and Stories by Lisa Nieschlag and Lars WentrupDelia Smith's Christmas by Delia SmithJamie's Christmas by Jamie OliverNigella's Christmas  by Nigella LawsonGizzi's Seasons Eatings by Gizzi ErskineSarah Raven's Complete Christmas: Food and Flowers by Sarah RavenWinter Cabin Cooking by Lizzie KamenetskyThe Borough Market Cookbook by Ed SmithIrish Country Women's Association Book of ChristmasBeeton's Book of Household Management by Isabella BeetonThe Wartime Christmas Cookbook by Megan RogersChocolates, Sweets and Candies by Sarah AinleyA Year by the Sea: Thoughts of an Unfinished Woman by Joan AndersonAlso, you can find chef Steven Lamb on Instagram @lambpostsThe transcript for this episode is here.New episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

To gather or not to gather, that is the question this year. Gathering is a huge part of Christmas for many of us, but the impact of the pandemic means that without doubt this Christmas will be different. This episode is full of ideas for making it special, whoever you end up spending it with.Episode 7 includes:Tips for avoiding stress if you are gathering with others this yearTips for making Christmas special if you aren't gathering with others this yearA challenge to inspire connection with others this weekThe origins of the Christmas cardThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'Download the transcript here.The readings in this episode were from Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy and Wabi Sabi: Japanese wisdom for a perfectly imperfect life, both by Beth KemptonNew episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Had enough of the pressure, expense and waste of excess Christmas presents? Tune into this week's episode for tips on mindful gifting, and ideas for saving money and reducing wrapping waste this holiday season. Episode 6 includes:My three guideposts for mindful giftingA fun exercise to help you prioritise your gift spending this yearIdeas for gifts for children that are good for the wallet and the planetTop tips for saving money and reducing waste when wrapping giftsThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'Download the transcript here.Resources mentioned in this episode: Get up to 50% off our life-changing courses at dowhatyouloveforlife.com / makeartthatsells.com / makeitindesign.com (Cyber Sale ends Monday November 30 2020)Also, here is a lovely example of furoshiki wrapping and here is Mari Kondo's versionNew episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Lose yourself in a flurry of wintery words from some of my favourite writers across food writing, nature writing, fiction, creativity, poetry and more. These are words to soothe the soul. There's also a special seasonal writing exercise for you, and we look into the tradition of the Christmas pudding.Episode 5 includes:The benefits of reading inspiring words, and writing your own, in the dark seasonSnippets of some wonderful writing from words that make you notice more to words that celebrate the human spiritA writing prompt for you to tryExploring the origins of the Christmas puddingThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'Download the transcript here.Resources mentioned in this episode:The Almanac 2021 by Lia Leendertz A Year of Good Eating: The Kitchen Diaries III by Nigel SlaterJRR Tolkien's Letters from Father Christmas edited by Baillie TolkienThe Complete Cold Mountain: Poems of the legendary hermit Hanshan, translated by Kazuaki Tanahashi and Peter LevittOne Day in December by Josie SilverThe Artist's Way by Julia CameronDrinking From the River of Light by Mark NepoDivine Beauty by John O'DonohueThe Light in the Dark by Horatio ClareThe Wild Remedy by Emma MitchellMaking Winter by Emma MitchellWild Embers by Nikita GillRhythms and Roads by Victoria EricksonNew episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Explore what a slow Christmas might look like, with top tips and some lovely creative ideas, and discover the origins of the Christmas tree!Episode 4 includes:The benefits of slowing down and simplifyingTop tips for a slow Christmas this yearSimple crafting and natural decoration ideasExploring the origins of the Christmas treeThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'Resources mentioned in this episode: Inventing the Christmas Tree by Bernd Brunner / The Winter Writing Sanctuary (free writing course) / Kokedama how-to video from the Royal Horticultural SocietyNew episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Take good care of yourself, and discover comfort and joy this winter. Episode 3 includes:Mindfulness in the darkest seasonLooking to other countries and cultures for ideas on staying warm in cold weatherFinding comfort and joy in winterThis week's ‘Get ahead tips'Resources mentioned: Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton / bbc.co.uk / worldnomads.com / Gardening Through The Year by Ian Spence / The Book of Hygge by Louisa Thomsen Brits / The Winter Writing Sanctuary (Free course) / The Book of Joy by Archbishop Desmond Tutu & The Dalai Lama.New episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year and some free goodies with purchase, go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Christmas can be a very special time, but it can also be a very stressful time. And given everything that has been going on, who knows what will unfold this holiday season? What if, for once, we just relaxed, and gave ourselves permission to focus on what really matters? Welcome to the brand new Calm Christmas podcast with bestselling self-help author Beth Kempton. “Just like my book of the same name, I hope the Calm Christmas podcast inspires connection, belonging, self- care, nourishment and joy, and a little bit of festive magic.” – Beth Episode 1 includes: A cosy introduction to The Calm Christmas PodcastAn important question for you to ponder (because asking it now could transform your experience of Christmas this year)This week's ‘Get ahead tips'Details of some treats for you2020 has been a challenging year in so many ways, shaking up so much of what we thought we could rely on. But in a world where we never really know what is coming next Christmas is one of the few constants we can trust in. I hope this podcast will help you locate Christmas as an anchor in the stormy seas of winter in this world right now.New episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year go to bethkempton.com/christmasTake good care,Beth (@bethkempton on Instagram)

Be inspired to make magic and memories this holiday season. This episode is all about enjoying the glorious autumnal season we are still in, while making some early plans for Christmas.Episode 2 includes:Embracing the autumn while preparing for winter (including some fun activities to try in all weathers)Pondering how Christmas might be different this year, and how we can make the most of thatMemories of Christmases abroadThe one question you need to answer in order to create magic and memories this year This week's ‘Get ahead tips'Resources mentioned: The Magical Year by Danu Forest / Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year by Beth Kempton / Christmas: A Biography by Judith Flanders / The Wild Weather Book by Fiona Danks & Jo Schofield / Silence by Erling Kagge / Morningby Allan JenkinsNew episodes every Thursday. Remember to subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop!For more details of my book Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year go to bethkempton.com/ChristmasTake good care, Beth  (@bethkempton on Instagram)

It may still be November… and you might not want to hear the C word … but trust us, your Christmas food planning and cooking will be a lot less stressful with Beth Kempton's guide to a calm Christmas. And it starts right now! Food writer and lover of all things Italian Vicky Bennison has spent years travelling across Italy, meeting the nonnas and finding out their culinary secrets. Discover just how simple it is to cook like a “pasta granny” in your kitchen at home! Nigel Slater explains why the humble cheese grater has a special place in his heart! And wrapping up Soup Month, Chef Kirsten Gilmour makes an apricot, carrot, rosemary and red lentil soup. Yes, really – apricots in a soup!

To celebrate the 100th episode, I'm excited to tell you that I have interviewed Beth Kempton (https://bethkempton.com) author of Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life and Calm Christmas and Happy New Year, my two recent favourite books! Beth is from England. She's a mama, writer, speaker, entrepreneur and Japanologist and let me tell you that learning from her or being inspired by her in any way lights a fire inside to truly INJOY LIVING at a deeper level. The story of how she found her passion is so hilariously random and at the same time so exciting and inspiring! She literally has the most deeply inspiring Instagram feed I've ever followed. The love for her work and her kind generous heart is infused in the value of what she puts out into the world. And if you are craving a calm and peaceful Christmas, I strongly recommend ordering her new book Calm Christmas and Happy New Year and snuggle up with a blanket over the next month or so. It's a magical book. This episode should leave you inspired to live more simply, joyfully and with passion. INJOY...here's Beth! https://www.injoyliving.ca/beth-kempton