Podcasts about Gently

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Step away from the day's demands, From the bustling energy of your waking hours, From the thoughts that race through your mind. Let's embark, Gently, Softly, On a serene journey into the night. PAUSE… Come inward, Where the gentle night enfolds you, And the whisper of darkness calls your heart to rest. The world outside has hushed, Now is the moment for relaxation, For peace, For deep, restorative sleep. PAUSE… Feel the calming embrace of the night, Inviting you to surrender, To breathe deeply, Finding the tranquil rhythm of stillness with each breath. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

This Emotional Detox Sleep Meditation supports inner healing, renewal, and a fresh start. Gently release what no longer serves you and reconnect with your true, whole self. Let go of any lingering unpleasant feelings and allow emotional energy to clear as you drift into deep, healing sleep. ✨ What's Included:Guided clearing of emotional tensionSoothing energetic cleansingPositive affirmations for healing and wholenessCalming background music to ease your mind and bodyWake feeling refreshed, rebalanced, and ready to begin anew.For best results, listen as often as you like. Lots of love, Nicky xDownload my new app 'Sleep Time: Sleep Meditations'✨Download options (on the app stores) here:https://linktr.ee/sleeptimeapp✨I hope you love it! Reasons to get my app:- All my sleep meditations, subliminals, sleep music, guided meditations and more, all in one place.- Ad-free and interruption-free.- Extended versions.- Listen to new releases first.- Supports my work to bring you more.- Hundreds of audios with more added weekly.- Quality audio player functionality.​- Fall asleep fast every night.Do not play this audio while driving or doing anything else.This audio and its contents are for entertainment purposes only and must never be considered a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you suffer from any kind of mental health condition, please seek advice from your health care professional as to the suitability of 'sleep meditation' for you before use. Keep your audio volume to a comfortable, somewhat quiet level. Otherwise, as with any loud sound, sleep could be disrupted. Thank you.© 2025 Nicky Sutton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you would like all this lovely content without the adverts then follow the link https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/calming-anxiety--4110266/supportBook your one on one hypnotherapy with Martin - https://calendar.app.google/rXHMt8sRYft5iWma8Take back control over your negative thoughts and calm pain and anxiety with this beautiful course in conjunction with The Physio Crew - https://offers.thephysiocrew.co.uk/home-pain Don't forget the app and now all our podcasts are also on YouTube.Gift the app to a loved one, friend or colleague - https://www.martinhewlett.co.uk/shop/calming-anxiety-gift-subscription/Try out the new , beautiful and simple breathing challenge to help you relax.https://www.martinhewlett.co.uk/breathing-challenge/Don't forget to download app....Calming Anxiety for IOS - https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/calming-anxiety/id1576159331Calming Anxiety for Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=digital.waterfront.calming.anxiety&hl=en-GBPlease download and enjoy.If you have found benefit from my podcast I do have a "buy me a coffee" page which helps to fund the hosting costs and all the time. :)https://www.buymeacoffee.com/calminganxietyI am always open to requests and tips as I try to help as many people as possible .My email is calminganxiety@martinhewlett.co.ukFor those younger listeners struggling with the stress of social media, do check out this amazing website. https://www.icanhelp.net/If you have found benefit in any of our podcasts then it would really help if you could subscribe as well to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/martinhewlett?sub_confirmation=1Backing Music by Chris Collins============Affiliate links to the gear I use the items that give me a more tranquil life.Rode Podmic - https://amzn.to/3LN1JEdZoom Livetrak L8 - https://amzn.to/36UCIbySony ZV 1 - https://amzn.to/3JvDUPTGoPro Hero 8 Black - https://amzn.to/372rzFlDJI Mini 2 - https://amzn.to/3NQfMdY=============================Items I use for a more relaxed way of life :)

In family life, say nothing of congregational life, when we see someone doing something that is not right, we often swing hard to one extreme to the other. We either come down hard and condemn the sinner or we say nothing at all.

Welcome to Paradigm Shift Summer!

Support the showPatreon (More Episodes):WATCH BONUS EPISODES Make sure to enjoy the full experience and watch us on YouTube More of us:

What if stress isn’t the enemy… but the training ground? In this sneak peek of our powerful conversation with former SAS soldier and leadership expert Tim Curtis, we unpack the real role of stress in our lives—and how it can actually help our kids grow. Tim reveals the four essential layers of resilience every child (and adult) needs to thrive—and the surprisingly simple shifts that build strength from the inside out. This episode will change the way you see stress—and empower you to raise kids who can do hard things. KEY POINTS: Stress is not always bad – the right amount (as explained by the Yerkes-Dodson Law) boosts performance and growth. Avoidance reinforces anxiety – but action activates growth. Emotions are signals, not enemies – they give us guidance if we listen. The 4 Layers of Resilience: Mind – mindset, mindfulness, meditation Body – sleep, diet, exercise Social – support systems and connection Professional – competence, confidence, contribution (including parenting as a profession) Building resilience is less about shielding kids and more about supporting them as they stretch and grow. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: "There’s no triumph without trial."– Dr Justin Coulson RESOURCES MENTIONED: Tim Curtis’s upcoming book: Building Resilient Kids Yerkes-Dodson Law (on stress and performance) Happy Families resources: happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Normalise stress – Talk to your kids about stress as something useful, not something to avoid. Teach emotion awareness – Help your child understand emotions as helpful signals. Strengthen all four layers – Encourage routines that support body, mind, relationships, and purpose. Model resilience – Let your kids see you navigating difficulty with action, not avoidance. Lean into the hard stuff – Gently support your child through challenges instead of rescuing them from discomfort. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Caring Closet is making a major impact in Clark County and beyond — distributing $1.6 million worth of free medical equipment in 2024 alone. The Vancouver-based nonprofit helps remove barriers for those in need of walkers, wheelchairs, hospital beds, and more, thanks to community donations and volunteers. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/a-caring-closet-provides-gently-used-medical-equipment-to-those-in-need/ #ACaringCloset #VancouverWA #MedicalEquipment #NonprofitSupport #SeniorCare #ClarkCounty #FreeMedicalSupplies #CommunityHealth #DurableMedicalEquipment #VolunteerDriven

We're officially halfway through this powerful 9 Universal Year—so what does that mean for your soul, your energy, and your next steps?In this mid-year check-in, I'm sharing 5 soulful, intuitive questions to help you reflect on what's shifting within you, what's asking to be released, and how to prepare for what's quietly unfolding.Whether you've been actively working with the energy of this 9 year or just sensing big internal shifts, this episode will help you:✅ Recognize subtle forms of resistance (and what they're trying to teach you) ✅ Gently acknowledge hidden grief or emotional closure you may still need ✅ Identify energetic, emotional, or physical clutter blocking your clarity ✅ Retire outdated roles or identities you've outgrown ✅ Begin laying the spiritual groundwork for your next aligned chapter

Are you carrying the mental and emotional load of parenting solo—even though you have a partner? You're not imagining it. You're not alone. And it doesn't have to stay this way. In this episode of the Happy Families podcast, Justin and Kylie dive into one of the most common (and quietly painful) challenges parents face: feeling like you're parenting alone in a relationship. With warmth, realism, and practical insight, we share four powerful—but gentle—ways to invite your partner back into the parenting picture. Whether you’re feeling unheard, unsupported, or just out of sync, these small steps can lead to big transformation. KEY POINTS: Appreciation Inventory: What we focus on grows. Before you confront, notice. Daily acknowledgements of your partner’s efforts—even small ones—can shift the dynamic. Collaborative Conversations: Use the three E’s of effective discipline (Explore, Explain, Empower) not just with kids, but with each other. Invite, don’t assign. Gradual Invitations: Don’t expect an overnight fix. Start small, with one area of natural interest, and build from there. Success breeds success. Role Modelling Matters: We become like the people we surround ourselves with. Seeing engaged parenting modeled—especially by other dads—can have a powerful ripple effect. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:“People move towards positive energy. People really love appreciation. They tend to be repelled by criticism.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Three E’s of Effective Discipline Family Meetings The Heliotropic Effect Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:1. Spend a week noticing and commenting on what your partner is doing.2. Replace “we need to talk” with curiosity: What are you noticing about bedtime?3. Choose one small area where your partner is already engaged—and invite them to go deeper.4. Encourage connections with friends who model engaged parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finely slice your onion, pre-heat your fry pan then add 3 tbs good olive oil.Gently sautee your onions for ...wait. TWENTY MINUTES??Listen here for WHY - ...and some hacks if you simply can't spare the time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gently layer different techniques, allowing each one to deepen and amplify the effects of the others. By engaging your mind, body, and subtle energy in a cohesive flow, you'll unlock a more profound and lasting sense of serenity, dissolving stress and inviting a deep, integrated peace into every fiber of your being. Get ready to compose your own symphony of calm and experience peace on a whole new level. Enjoy this BONUS meditation series guiding you with deep insight and longer, guided meditations. This is day 6 of a 7-day meditation series, "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" episodes 1101-1107. THIS WEEK'S THEME: "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" Welcome to a truly special journey, a meditation series dedicated entirely to cultivating peace in your life. In our busy world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and disconnected from that calm center within us. But peace isn't just an absence of noise or conflict; it's a profound state of being, a gentle presence that resides within you, always available. This series is your invitation to rediscover that innate peace. We won't just be talking about peace; we'll be diving into practices that help you feel it, cultivate it, and carry it with you into your daily life. Whether you're a seasoned meditator looking to deepen your tranquility or just starting your journey toward inner calm, these sessions are designed to gently guide you home to yourself. Get ready to quiet the noise, soothe your spirit, and build a lasting sanctuary of peace within your heart and mind. Let's begin this beautiful journey together. YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY DURING THIS WEEK'S SERIES This is episode 6 of a 7-day meditation series titled, "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" episodes 1101-1107. Day 1:  Peace Visualization Day 2:  "Peace is within you," affirmation Day 3:   Peace Breathing Technique Day 4:  Mudra for peace Day 5:  Chakra for inner peace Day 6: Flow meditation combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure WEEKLY CHALLENGE:  Cultivating Peace Do one thing each day that brings you deep inner peace. SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS   Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me at https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  SUBSCRIBE + LEAVE A REVIEW  SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! A DIFFERENT MEDITATION TECHNIQUE EVERY DAY FOCUSED ON A WEEKLY THEME: Get ready for an exciting journey with a new meditation technique daily, perfectly tailored to the week's theme! Infuse these powerful practices into the most stressful moments of your day to master difficult emotions. These dynamic techniques will help you tame the "monkey mind," keeping your thoughts from interrupting your meditation and bringing peace and focus to your life. FREE TOOLS: For free meditation tools to help you meditate please head over to my website at www.SipandOm.com, and there you'll find free resources to help you on your Meditation Journey. Enjoy access to more than 3,000 guided meditations without ads on the Sip and Om app. Try it for 7 days of free access to the full app! Listen on iTunes for 1-Week Free! https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone   1-week Free Access to the Android app! https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sipandom.sipandom   ***All meditations are Mary Meckley's original copyrighted content unless otherwise stated, and may not be shared without her written permission.   RESOURCES Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.   I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU I'd love your feedback! Please let me know how you're enjoying the meditations by leaving me a review on iTunes.   **All of the information shared on this podcast is for your enjoyment only. Please don't consider the meditation techniques, herbal tea information, or other information shared by Mary Meckley or any of her guests as a replacement for any medical or psychological treatment. That being said, please enjoy any peace, energy, or clarity you may experience as you meditate.

Rosa Flanagan of the Two Raw Sisters is serving up a delicious salad – perfect to take along to a long weekend gathering. Serves: 6 Time: 40 minutes Ingredients: 1 cauliflower, cut into florets 2 tbsp cooking oil 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/2 cup quinoa 1 cup water Quick Pickled Red Onion 1 red onion, finely sliced 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar ½ tsp sea salt Pomegranate Lemon Oil 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses Zest and juice of 1 lemon ¼ tsp sea salt To Serve 3 stalks kale, stalks discarded and leaves finely chopped 1 cup herbs, chopped ¾ cup seeds, toasted Method: Preheat the oven to 200C. Place the cauliflower on a baking tray and toss with cooking oil, pomegranate molasses, and sea salt. Place in the oven and cook for 30-35 minutes or until golden and crispy in parts. While the cauliflower is roasting, make the other components. For the quinoa, add the quinoa and water to a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove from the heat. For the pickled red onion, add the onion, vinegar and salt to a small bowl. Toss together and allow to pickle for at least 5-10 minutes. For the pomegranate lemon oil, add all ingredients to a cup and mix to combine. When you are ready to serve, add the cooked quinoa, cauliflower, kale, herbs, seeds, pickled red onion, and drizzle over the pomegranate lemon oil to a big salad bowl. Gently toss to combine. Store any leftover salad in an airtight container, in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simple Swaps / Additions Great work lunch salad, just leave out the herbs and add fresh each day. Add any other vegetables in addition or in replacement of the cauliflower e.g. kumara, eggplant, fennel, capsicum, zucchini, broccoli, pumpkin, potato. Quinoa for any other grain e.g brown rice, orzo pasta, millet. Instead of pickling the red onion, add to the roasting tray with the vegetables. If you don't have pomegranate molasses, leave it out. We use and recommend the brand, Lebanon Gardens. Kale for any other greens e.g rocket, silverbeet, watercress, cos lettuce or spinach. Seeds for any other seed or nut e.g sesame seeds, almonds or walnuts. Delicious served with avocado chunks and a side of protein such as halloumi, falafels, tempeh, salmon, chicken, lamb or beef. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gently explore how to bring conscious awareness to your chakras, using focused attention and intention to release blockages and cultivate a sense of serene balance. You'll discover how understanding and nurturing these energy points can be a powerful pathway to calming your mind, soothing your emotions, and inviting a deep, lasting sense of tranquility into your life. Whether you're new to chakra work or seeking to deepen your connection, prepare to unlock your body's inherent wisdom and rediscover the peaceful presence that resides within you. Enjoy this BONUS meditation series guiding you with deep insight and longer, guided meditations. This is day 4 of a 7-day meditation series, "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" episodes 1101-1107. THIS WEEK'S THEME: "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" Welcome to a truly special journey, a meditation series dedicated entirely to cultivating peace in your life. In our busy world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and disconnected from that calm center within us. But peace isn't just an absence of noise or conflict; it's a profound state of being, a gentle presence that resides within you, always available. This series is your invitation to rediscover that innate peace. We won't just be talking about peace; we'll be diving into practices that help you feel it, cultivate it, and carry it with you into your daily life. Whether you're a seasoned meditator looking to deepen your tranquility or just starting your journey toward inner calm, these sessions are designed to gently guide you home to yourself. Get ready to quiet the noise, soothe your spirit, and build a lasting sanctuary of peace within your heart and mind. Let's begin this beautiful journey together. YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY DURING THIS WEEK'S SERIES This is episode 5 of a 7-day meditation series titled, "Navigating Life with Gentle Peace" episodes 1101-1107. Day 1:  Peace Visualization Day 2:  "Peace is within you," affirmation Day 3:   Peace Breathing Technique Day 4:  Mudra for peace Day 5:  Chakra for inner peace Day 6: Flow meditation combining the week's techniques Day 7:  Weekly review meditation and closure WEEKLY CHALLENGE:  Cultivating Peace Do one thing each day that brings you deep inner peace. SHARE YOUR MEDITATION JOURNEY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEDITATORS   Let's connect and inspire each other! Please share a little about how meditation has helped you by reaching out to me at Mary@SipandOm.com or better yet -- direct message me at https://www.instagram.com/sip.and.om. We'd love to hear about your meditation ritual!  SUBSCRIBE + LEAVE A REVIEW  SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a single episode. Consistency is the KEY to a successful meditation ritual. SHARE the podcast with someone who could use a little extra support. I'd be honored if you left me a podcast review. If you do, please email me at Mary@sipandom.com and let me know a little about yourself and how meditation has helped you. I'd love to share your journey to inspire fellow meditators on the podcast! A DIFFERENT MEDITATION TECHNIQUE EVERY DAY FOCUSED ON A WEEKLY THEME: Get ready for an exciting journey with a new meditation technique daily, perfectly tailored to the week's theme! Infuse these powerful practices into the most stressful moments of your day to master difficult emotions. These dynamic techniques will help you tame the "monkey mind," keeping your thoughts from interrupting your meditation and bringing peace and focus to your life. FREE TOOLS: For free meditation tools to help you meditate please head over to my website at www.SipandOm.com, and there you'll find free resources to help you on your Meditation Journey. Enjoy access to more than 3,000 guided meditations without ads on the Sip and Om app. Try it for 7 days of free access to the full app! Listen on iTunes for 1-Week Free! https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sip-and-om/id1216664612?platform=iphone&preserveScrollPosition=true#platform/iphone   1-week Free Access to the Android app! https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sipandom.sipandom   ***All meditations are Mary Meckley's original copyrighted content unless otherwise stated, and may not be shared without her written permission.   RESOURCES Music composed by Christopher Lloyd Clark licensed by RoyaltyFreeMusic.com, and also by musician Greg Keller.   I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU I'd love your feedback! Please let me know how you're enjoying the meditations by leaving me a review on iTunes.   **All of the information shared on this podcast is for your enjoyment only. Please don't consider the meditation techniques, herbal tea information, or other information shared by Mary Meckley or any of her guests as a replacement for any medical or psychological treatment. That being said, please enjoy any peace, energy, or clarity you may experience as you meditate.

Alternate titles include:  Waterkeep, Den of Iniquity, Harper's Waypoint, and Alchemist's Lab Tabletop Audio https://tabletopaudio.com   Catoptricon Zak   Email us at PodAgainsttheMachine@gmail.com Remember to check out https://podagainstthemachine.com for show transcripts, player biographies, and more. Stop by our Discord server to talk about the show: https://discord.gg/TVv9xnqbeW Follow @podvsmachine on Twitter Find us on Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook as well.

Discussing sensitive topics on a podcast can be challenging, but the way you handle them makes all the difference. In this episode, Chelsea Myers shares tips for guiding guests through difficult conversations while keeping the focus on their story. Learn how to set boundaries, steer discussions with care, and create a space where guests feel comfortable sharing. Get ready to master the art of covering sensitive topics in a way that honors your guests and serves your listeners!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/336Chapters00:00 Navigating Sensitive Topics in Podcasting02:26 Creating a Comfortable Environment for Guests04:18 Steering the Conversation Effectively09:03 Encouraging Guest Participation12:22 Establishing Boundaries and Comfort LevelsTakeawaysThis is not about you; it's about your guest.Create a comfortable environment for your guests.Use natural pauses to steer the conversation.Validate your guest's experiences to make them feel heard.Be mindful of the questions you ask.Encourage guests to share their stories.Establish boundaries before recording sensitive topics.Use affirmations to show you're listening.Gently guide guests who may struggle to share.Building relationships can extend beyond the podcast.MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/336

Sports Daily Full Show 17 June 2025

Relax with the comforting sound of rain gently falling on a cozy cabin roof in the heart of nature. This two-hour soundscape is perfect for deep sleep, unwinding after a long day, or creating a peaceful background for reading or focus. Ideal for stress relief and quiet introspection.Lose the AD intros by becoming a subscriber!https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/asmr-rain-recordings--5347561/support

It Took Cupid's ArmyCan I woo the girl who knows my embarrassing childhood?Based on a post by Mac G. Listen to the podcast at Connected.Even though it is right in front of you, you don't always see what's good for you. Sometimes you need a little nudge. This is about a couple of mine.When I was five, Jenny's family moved in directly across the street from us. Our families became good friends right away. Due to the fact that there was nobody else our age living nearby (Jenny is three months older than I am), we soon became inseparable.She had no trouble keeping up with me in the rough and tumble things I wanted to do, and I had no problems playing house with her when she wanted. One of our parents always had to shoo us home at night because we would never think about it ourselves. I once tried to get my parents to let Jenny spend the night, but they said it was not right for girls to spend the night with boys.Although I missed it at the time, the first indication that Jenny and I would end up together came when we were fourteen. I was over at her house watching TV with her and her dad. As we sat there, the doorbell rang. Jenny got up to answer it. She came back a moment later followed by a policeman."Mr. Adams," he said, "I'm afraid I have some bad news."Jenny's dad got up to stand next to her. I stood a few feet behind them."I'm really sorry to say that there has been an accident. A drunk ran a red light and hit your wife's car," the policeman stated."What! When? Where? How is she?" Mr. Adams asked."The paramedics did their best, but I'm afraid she didn't make it. I am truly sorry."At this point, Jenny turned around and looked at me, tears pouring from her eyes. She ran to me, buried her head in my shoulder and sobbed. I guided her to the couch and sat her down. Holding her gently, I let her cry herself out, trying to soothe her as best as I could.After about fifteen minutes, Mr. Adams finished up with the policeman and came over to sit next to us. Jenny had calmed down a little and was just crying lightly. He took Jenny in his arms and held her. I got up and called my parents telling them what had happened. They both came right over.After a lot of consoling and grief, Dad left with Mr. Adams to tend to the body while Mom stayed with Jenny and I. Mom told me later how proud she was of me and for handling the situation and comforting Jenny so well. Years later, Mr. Adams said he'd kill me if I told Jenny, but that it hurt a little when Jenny turned to me, instead of him, for comfort upon hearing the news about her mom.The First NudgeI have always thought differently about Jenny than anyone else. Even during those awkward adolescent times all boys go through in which girls are gross and have cooties, I never felt that way about Jenny. It was like my mind thought, 'That's not a girl, that's Jenny'. The trouble was that as I grew into a teenager and began to notice girls, it was the same thing; I didn't realize just how beautiful Jenny was becoming.Ironically, it was on a date with someone else in the summer between our Junior and Senior years that her beauty was pointed out to me. We had been having a great time: Dinner, movie, and ice cream afterwards. It was close to time to take my date home."Anne, can I ask you a question?" I asked."Sure, what's up?""Well, when I asked you out, you seemed a little surprised. Pleased, but surprised. I got the same response from Sarah Jansen last month, and I was wondering if it was true you were surprised, and if so, why?"Anne smiled and hesitated a moment before answering."Yes, it's true I was a little surprised and I'm sure Sarah was as well. The reason is we keep expecting you two knuckleheads to wake up and see what a good thing you've got.""Knuckleheads? What two knuckleheads?" I asked."Okay, it looks like it's up to me to straighten you out, although I really shouldn't," she sighed. "I'm going to do this in a roundabout way. I'm going to ask you a bunch of questions. Some of them may seem silly, and some might be embarrassing, but I need you to trust me and answer them all honestly.""Okay, I'll try.""Good. Now first question: Do you think I'm pretty?""Of course I do. Most guys in school do.""Thank you," she said, blushing a little, "Now, I know all guys have different ideas about the ideal woman, but am I your ideal? Be honest.""No, you're not." I said a little chagrinned."Hey, don't worry about it. I asked for honesty. I'm somebody's ideal and I'll find them one day. Let's concentrate on your ideal woman. I'll say an attribute and you tell me what you like. You okay with this?""I guess.""Ok, height?""Your height, perhaps a little taller.""Hair?""Red, long and straight.""Longer than my shoulder length?" Anne asked."Yes.""Eyes?""Green.""Mouth?""Don't know. Never thought about that.""Not a problem. Now, don't get embarrassed, but look at my tits."I couldn't help it, I turned crimson, but I looked briefly. She had very nice tits."That's what I like about you, Tony; even with permission you don't ogle at a girl's chest. Most guys would be glued there right now. Ok, what would you change?""Nothing, I really like your tits," I said, turning even redder, if that were possible."Thanks, so do I. There's definitely something there to attract attention, but not too much. What about the butt? Do you like big butts?""Not really.""What about legs?""Long, with a good muscle structure.""Great. Now, here is what you just told me is your ideal woman; 5'9" or 5'10" tall, long, straight red hair, green eyes, an athletic build, long muscular legs leading up to a nice tight butt. Is that an accurate description?""Yes, that would be correct.""And you still don't see it do you?""I guess not. See what?""You just perfectly described Jenny Adams."I sat there for a moment. She was right of course, but I had never made the connection."Did you know that most guys think Jenny is the best looking girl in school? Many also think you are an idiot for not dating her. You've been best friends for so long you two cannot see it any other way. You should start looking at Jenny as the beautiful woman she is. With the great friendship you've already built, you two would make a perfect couple. Think about it, you dope," Anne ordered with a grin."I will, I promise," I said. "Now, I'd better get you home before your dad sends out the posse."I drove her home in silence. When I walked her to the door, I said, "Thanks a lot for telling me that, Anne. I guess it's true it's sometimes hard to see what is right in front of your nose.""You're welcome. I'm sure you two will be very happy together. Now, I don't usually do this on a first date, but as I'm pretty sure I've just ensured there won't be a second one, kiss me good night.""Gladly."I leaned forward and gave her a gentle kiss. She was having none of that. Throwing her arms around my neck she pulled me in for a nice, hard kiss. It seemed to last forever, breaking only when we ran out of air."Thanks, that's just what I wanted," she said smiling. "Now, go get her, Tiger!" With that, she turned and went inside.It's a good thing the route home was so familiar, as I was not paying too much attention to where I was going; I was thinking about Jenny. She was beautiful. She was also a great person. She was funny and fun to be around; kind to everyone; caring with genuine compassion; helpful whenever you needed her. She had so many wonderful qualities that it's hard to think of them all.Two days later, Jenny was over at my house watching TV. As the movie ended, she turned to me, saying, "Okay, Tony, what's up? You've been quiet all day and you've been giving me some funny looks."I hesitated before answering, unsure as to how to answer. I was really nervous about how this would go. I took a deep breath."Jenny, will you go out with me on Friday?" I asked her."Sure, we can get together and...""No, please, that's not what I mean. I don't want to just get together; I want to go on a date, a real date."She looked at me with her eyebrows raised. I could see the wonder in her eyes."Look, Jenny, I know we've been friends for a long time, you've always been my best friend, but lately I've been seeing you in a different light. I've always known you were pretty, but I'm starting to see just how beautiful you really are. I've always known you were a girl, but now I'm seeing you as a woman. We're friends but I'd like to see if maybe we could be more."She sat there, deep in thought. I waited for her to decide.After several minutes I added, "I know this is sudden. You don't have to answer now if you want to think about it for a while. Don't be afraid to say no. Nothing will change if you say no."She smiled at me and said, "I don't need to wait. Of course I'll go on a date with you. I just wasn't expecting it. What brought this about?""I'll tell you, I promise, but not right now. What time do you want to start?""Um, I'll let you know.""Fine. Want a Coke?""Sure."I went a got one for each of us. We watched some more TV, neither one of us talking much. When she left to go home, she paused at the door and gave me a long look, smiling slightly.The rest of the week seemed to last forever. Jenny must have said something to her dad, and he spoke to my parents, because on Wednesday evening Mom came into my room, announcing, "Let me know what you plan on wearing for your big date Friday, and I'll make sure it's clean and nicely pressed.""Okay, Mom, thanks. I'm not sure...wait, how did you know about Friday?""Moms just know," she said, grinning. "If there's anything else I can do for you, let me know."When Friday came, I had still not told her what I wanted to wear, having changed my mind several times. I went out in the afternoon to get a haircut. When I got back home, there was a brand new outfit laying on my bed waiting. It was perfect. As I was getting ready, my dad came in my room."Here, try some of this," he said, handing me a bottle of cologne. "It's a very popular scent.""Thanks, Dad.""Also, a good date needs a good ride. Take my car tonight."I was stunned. Dad rarely let's anyone drive his car. He had saved for years to afford it. "Are you sure?" I asked."Yes, I'm sure. I got it cleaned up nicely today and it's got a full tank of gas. Enjoy yourself.""Wow, thanks, Dad! You're awesome."When the time came, I walked across to her house and knocked. Mr. Adams answered."Come on in Tony, she'll be right down. Where are you going tonight?" he asked."I made a reservation at that new Italian place south of the mall. After that, we'll just see. Probably a movie later on," I answered.We heard the sound of Jenny coming down the stairs. I turned to see her and was stunned. She was wearing a light green sun dress that stopped just above her knees. Her legs looked great, tapering to a pair of strappy sandals with a 2½-inch heel. Her red hair cascaded down over the front of her shoulders, framing her face nicely. Jenny's eyes were sparkling and she was grinning from ear to ear.I walked up to her as she got to the bottom of the stairs."I've never seen you look more beautiful," I said.She blushed a little and said, "Thanks, you look great, too."We walked back to her dad."Have fun tonight you two," he said. "I've talked to your parents, Tony, and for tonight, and tonight only, there is no curfew for you two - just don't push it too far.""We won't, Mr. Adams, I promise," I said.We walked across the street to the car. Jenny's eyes got huge when she saw we were heading to Dad's car. We drove to the restaurant in an awkward silence. As we were waiting for the table, I reached out and took her hand in mine. I wasn't sure if it was a good idea, as I figured she could feel that my heart was beating about 200 times a minute. Jenny just smiled at me and squeezed it gently.Dinner went well. The talking started slow, but we loosened up some as things went on. By the end I think I had my heart down to about 150.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a moment to settle into your body,Let the weight of your body rest into the surface beneath you.Feel the natural rhythm of your breath. PAUSE… Now, imagine you are standing in a room—your own space.It's a quiet room, one filled with the weight of the day,Of everything you've carried up until now. PAUSE… You reach for the window or the door in front of you.It's there, waiting.Gently, you place your hand on the handle,Feel its coolness, and begin to turn it slowly. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Have the past few years been tough on your relationship? Have you found yourself in long, relentless arguments with your partner whereby you can no longer think compassionately? Not to worry, you're not alone. In this episode, I unpack six of the most common phrases that poison relationships – and explore alternative responses that ultimately cause less hurt —without losing our truth.From “You always...” to “Whatever you want,” I will dive into what's really going on underneath those hurtful patterns.

Dear Beautiful Mama, Have you ever found yourself so tired you can't even think straight? You're doing everything—holding your family together, chasing after purpose, pouring out love—but inside, you're running on empty. You love Jesus, but lately… He feels far away. And you're wondering, “Where are You, Lord? Don't You see me?” I get it. I've been there too. And that's exactly why I created this episode of the Mom2Mom Mentoring Podcast. In this deeply personal episode, I share my own story of spiritual depletion—how I came to the end of myself and cried out for Jesus. But this isn't just about me. It's about you, too. It's about all of us moms who are juggling carpool, calling, and career while silently whispering, “I can't keep doing this.” We'll walk through Song of Solomon chapter 1—a surprising place to find hope—and unpack how Jesus meets us in our mess with tenderness and truth. You'll hear about a woman who felt burned out, ashamed, and unseen... and how Jesus called her “Most beautiful one.” He didn't shame her. He guided her. Gently. Here's what you'll walk away with: ✨ 3 deeply biblical steps to reconnect with Jesus when you feel lost ✨ A powerful analogy about “pasturing your young goats” that will give you food for thought in the place of parenting ✨ Permission to be honest about your weariness ✨ The reminder that God is not pushing you—He's wooing you So mama, if you've gone quiet in your spirit… if you've forgotten how to hear His voice… or if you're barely holding on—this episode is for you.

In this powerful episode of the Thrive State Podcast, Dr. Kien Vuu (Doctor V) sits down with Sandra Scheinbaum, PhD, founder of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy. They explore how health coaching is transforming lives, the science behind mind-body medicine, and how your personal story shapes your biology.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a moment to settle into this space,Allowing your body to relax.Gently close your eyes,And feel your body soften against the surface you're resting on. PAUSE... Take a deep breath in, filling your lungs with air,And exhale, letting go of any tension that has gathered.With each breath, feel yourself becoming more grounded,More present in this moment. PAUSE... Notice how change is always with us,Moving like the quiet turning of seasons.It comes gently, softly,And often, it can feel like the unknown. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

In the final episode of the Your Wise Money Friend series, Carl reflects on what it means to hold the mirror gently. A wise money friend helps you see what's really there—not with blame, but with compassion. It's that rare mix of an empathetic hug and a well-timed kick in the butt. Because real clarity doesn't come from shame—it comes from being seen, kindly.Want more from Carl? Get the shortest, most impactful weekly email on the web! Sign up for the Weekly Letter from Certified Financial Planner™ and New York Times columnist Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ 

What should you do with a loved one's ashes? Or your beloved pet's remains? Where should you place old photographs, heirlooms, or cherished belongings that still hold emotional weight? These are some of the deeply personal—and often emotional—questions I get asked all the time. In this heartfelt episode, I, Patricia Lohan, a Feng Shui expert who has helped women around the world bring more joy, ease, flow, and abundance into their lives, open up a thoughtful conversation around ashes, ancestors, and altars. We'll explore how to honor your loved ones while also maintaining the energetic harmony of your home. Whether you're in the midst of loss or supporting someone who is, this episode offers gentle support, spiritual insights, and practical Feng Shui tips to help you make choices that feel both respectful and energetically aligned. Tune in, take what resonates, and remember—your home is a reflection of your heart. Let it be filled with love, light, and peace.   Key Takeaways:  Everything you bring into your home carries energy—and this energy affects your personal well-being, flow, and emotional state. Letting go doesn't have to mean forgetting. Thoughtful rituals or ceremonies can provide healing and closure when the time feels right. Gently begin with decluttering items connected to loss before addressing ashes. Do it at your own pace—layer by layer. Resources: Feng Shui Mini Course or Feng Shui 101 - https://love.powerhousefengshui.com/feng-shui-101 Feng Shui Checklist - https://www.powerhousefengshui.com/feng-shui-checklist-1   Connect with Patricia Lohan: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/powerhousefengshui/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PatriciaLohan Website - https://patricialohan.com/ Send us an email: miracles@patricialohan.com

Charlotte, the Sage of Abby HillBased on the work of BradentonLarry, in 6 parts.  Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.The Sage and  a Kind of Good-Bye"The Sage is ready to see you now," said Wei, the tall Asian man who they had learned was the Abbot of the brown-robed monks – or the Order of Record Keepers, as they called themselves.Don gently urged Nicole to release his cock from her mouth and promised they would get back to playing soon. As he tied his grey robe about himself, Don saw that Toshia, who had been riding up and down on Alan's lap only a moment before was also hurrying to make herself "presentable". After waking up hours ago, and the following, almost routine, morning sex (Well, that's definitely the right way to start the day, particularly when you wake up sandwiched between two naked, sexy women! Don thought to himself with a happy smile), they had had a bite of breakfast and been asked to wait until they were called for. While they learned a little bit more about the Order, most of the morning was spent in lazy sexual play. It was now shortly after midday, and at least two of them were quite eager to meet this person whom they had been awaiting, and had gone to such lengths to find.They followed Wei to the foot of a winding staircase and proceeded up. At the top, behind a modest door, they were admitted to a good sized study, complete with shelves filled with row upon row of books. Windows all around the room let bright sunlight in. There were a few comfortable chairs, and a nice desk, behind which, in a brown robe, sat a middle aged woman with thick, dark brown hair falling down around her shoulders. She was apparently reading the last page of a stack of typed material.Wei gestured to a set of chairs that had been drawn into a circle of four, and said, "Please, make yourself comfortable, she will be right with you."Sure enough, right after he had closed the door behind himself but before they could get comfortable in their chairs, the woman looked up at them and smiled. "Hello," she said as she stood up and came around the desk. "You're obviously Don, and I'm guessing you're Toshia and you're Nicole.""That's right, and you're 'the Sage'?" Toshia asked."That's what they call me," she smiled as she sat down in a high-backed chair."I admit, I was expecting someone a bit ... more wizened," Don smiled."Well, it's really just a title, like 'the Crone', though I suspect the similarities end about there. You can call me Charlotte if you prefer.""Pleased to meet you, Charlotte," Toshia said."Likewise," Charlotte smiled again. "I know you must have many questions, but let me just say, I've just finished reading your various reports, and I've enjoyed them very much. Our scribes are chosen for their skill at asking the right sorts of questions and their ability to flesh out the stories they're given, but in this case they've had very good material to work with. The three of you have had some very interesting adventures. I particularly enjoyed reading about your encounter with the Bull, Toshia.""So, everyone who comes here looking for you tells their story and you read it?" Nicole asked."Yes, that's right. I confess, my personal 'kink' is to get off reading about, and sometimes watching, the exploits of others. I would have finished reading your reports earlier, but I had to keep stopping to masturbate.""Wouldn't it have been more efficient for us to just tell you directly?" Nicole asked with a twinkle in her eye that the Sage seemed to miss."Well, yes, but there are two problems with that," Charlotte answered. "One, we keep all the stories, as a record and a source of study...""You could just have someone type it up as we told you," Toshia pointed out.Charlotte nodded, "That's quite true, but then the narrator would be bristling with questions for me, which would slow things down and cause all kinds of complications.""Is that the second problem?" Don asked."No, the second one is that there seems to be some benefit to having each person tell his or her own story, and then comparing them.""How have our stories diverged?" Don wanted to know."Well, I've only just read the three of them, and haven't had hardly any time to think about them, but Don's way of looking at your time here in Eros involves a lot of digressions and interconnections, while Toshia's is more straight-forward. Nicole's is actually rather journalistic."Don could see that Nicole had half a mind to object to this, but he cut in with, "OK, but what's the point of all this anyway?"Charlotte the Sage frowned slightly and said, "I assume you mean the record-keeping?""Well, for now, yes.""At some point, long ago, the first Sage decided that one way of trying to make sense of the whys and wherefores of Eros was to start recording the experiences of people who, like him, remembered their lives before waking up here.""And, has it helped?" Toshia asked."Well, it certainly makes for some stimulating reading," Charlotte laughed. Then she added, "It definitely has served to build up some generalizations that seem to be helpful.""Such as?" Don prodded."Every single person who has come here, to this Abbey, and this goes back for 450 Erosian years, has spoken English rather fluently. Now, the only people who we interview are those who remember their lives prior to waking up here, but none of them has ever reported meeting anyone who doesn't speak English. This suggests that either the people who don't remember spoke English before they arrived here, were somehow rewired to speak English upon being brought over, or are native Erosians. This all seems to strongly suggest that whomever or whatever is responsible for selecting people for Eros speaks English, and that seems quite surprising and noteworthy to me.""So, which is it, were they brought here or are they natives?" Nicole asked."They were brought," Don said quietly, remembering his and Toshia's visit to the Library in the Manor."Well, the evidence does suggest that," Charlotte nodded. "They seem to have various personality traits and interests that wouldn't make sense for native Erosians, for one thing.""That's what I was thinking," Don added."Also, some people have actually met people they recognized or even knew quite well from Earth, but who seemed to have no memory of that other life.""That must have been bizarre," Toshia said."It has sometimes been ... awkward, to say the least," nodded Charlotte."All of this is very interesting, but you mentioned whomever, or whatever, is selecting people from Earth – English speaking people from Earth," Don said as he leaned forward. "Who or what is doing this, and why? What's the point of it all?"Charlotte smiled again, "I honestly can't say. I admit that the question puts me in a philosophical frame of mind. Imagine if I asked you what the point of it all was on Earth. Anyway, there are theories, of course. Some Sages have thought that we were being held prisoner here as lab rats, running countless experiments on human sexuality, others that there is some power, or powers, who feed off human eroticism, or who have lost the ability to generate it for themselves – the ultimate voyeurs. There seems no question that there's some intelligence behind it, though.""Why do you think so?" Toshia asked."Well, it only selects people who are quite dissatisfied with their Earthly sex lives." Charlotte held up her hand to forestall Toshia's objection. "The fact that it is very hard to sort out exactly what counts as such dissatisfaction seems to lend weight to this consideration. No doubt, Toshia would hesitate to say that she was dissatisfied in any way with Sarah, but it seems clear from reading her story that she would hardly think of the sex life she was having before as being satisfying now. Almost every single person who has found his or her way here has thought that being brought to Eros was a wonderful gift, which has led some to speculate that this was some kind of heaven."Don couldn't resist scowling at this notion, and Charlotte noticed. "I don't buy that either," she said with a smile. "On the other hand, it's the best afterlife I've ever heard of. Going back to the question of intelligence, one of the most telling bits of evidence is the two of you, Don and Toshia."After taking a moment to scowl thoughtfully at this suggestion, Toshia asked, "What do you mean?""As far as our records indicate, the two of you are unique. No pair of friends has ever woken up together like you have. Before you ask, I have absolutely no idea what that might mean. Perhaps it's for the purposes of one of those psycho-sexual experiments."There was a moment of silence before Don decided to ask, "What's up with the black robed figures?""The Watchers," Charlotte nodded. "Another indication that there is some kind of intelligent process going on. After 450 years of accumulating data, there has never been anyone – anyone recorded, anyway – who has managed to talk to, or even catch hold of, one of those bastards. They watch for a bit; then, when you think you're going to get your hands on one, they're gone.""Is it science or magic?" Toshia asked."I'm inclined to follow Arthur C. Clarke on this one and say I don't really know that there's a difference in this context.""There are so many questions," Don muttered, shaking his head. "How many people remember their lives? What's the distribution of their wheres and whens? Is there anything they all have in common besides being sexually frustrated?""Is there a way to get home again?" Toshia asked resolutely.Charlotte, knowing this was the issue that had motivated them in seeking her out, turned to Toshia with a serious expression and said, "Yes, or so it would seem anyway. There are apparently at least two ways. The first is to become bored with life in Eros. It seems that when that happens you will simply go missing, and it's presumed that you return to your Earthly life. As to the other, more proactive, way, the lake outside is the headwater of a river that runs several hundred kilometers to an ocean or a sea – we haven't been able to get anyone to engage in any kind of systematic exploration. Along the coastline to the left of mouth of river...""To the left facing the sea?" Don asked."Yes," Charlotte smiled again. "Go down the river, then turn left, and proceed along the coast, until you find a place called the Grotto of Ishtar, or just the Grotto. There, according to two people who have accompanied others seeking to leave, you'll find a way to return home."Toshia looked like she was ready to head off immediately, but a couple of concerns occurred to Don. He said, "I'm troubled by something: how can anyone here know that people return home safely? And, now that I'm saying that, how did the Scholar know that time moves differently here in Eros? It doesn't seem to make sense that we could know these things unless someone has been able to return home and then come back.""Very good, Don," Charlotte nodded, and Don found himself thinking that she must have been a teacher back on Earth. She explained, "There seems to be a way to go back and forth between Eros and Earth more or less at will. One of the more enterprising people who have visited the Abbey several times, a Stephanie Ayers, found someone with this ability and talked to him at great length. She then tracked down two more people, and in doing so was able to confirm these rumors and suppositions.""How are they able to do it?" Don asked intently."Stephanie says they have 'magic rings' that allow them to 'decide' to wake up in either Eros or Earth; or, should that be 'on'?""Where do they get those rings, and what do they look like?""I cannot answer the first, Don, but apparently they are simple rings of a shiny black material, something like hematite."Don sat back in his chair. That sounds familiar! After a moment of reflection, he smiled broadly and said, "I think I've seen someone with one of those, and I'm pretty sure I can find her again."Charlotte gave Don a long look and said, "I can guess what you have in mind, Don, but I should warn you that these ring people are not only very possessive of their rings, but also very evasive about how they came to acquire them. Stephanie hasn't been able to get any useful information so far, and she's been at this a while."Toshia brought the discussion back to the main topic with, "I wanted to ask another question – our flying carpet stopped working and several hundred kilometers is a long way – do you know of any way to make the trip quicker?""Well, yes," Charlotte answered, "I would take the riverboat.""The riverboat?""Yes, there's a riverboat that goes from the Resort down to the city on the coast, Rendezvous, and back. You might have to wait for it sometime, it doesn't keep to a schedule very well, but it docks just outside of the Resort, through the gate opposite the one you used to come here.""Wait," Don cut in, "there's a city?""Well, it's a town, really, but it's the biggest one in Eros as far as I know."This prompted what felt like a dozen questions in Don's mind, starting with those of economics. He was still having a hard time coming to grips with the weirdness of how Eros worked."Thank you for your time, Charlotte," Toshia was saying.Although Don wanted to interject with, "Are we leaving already?" he realized how important it was for Toshia to stay on the task of returning to Sarah, so he set aside the questions he was dying to ask and stood, saying, "Thank you very much." Nicole followed suit.The Sage stood up as well, and said, "If you decide to stay longer in Eros, please feel welcome to return to the Abbey anytime."Don smiled warmly at this suggestion, and thought it was a bit odd that he was leaving this attractive, intelligent woman without having had the pleasure of, well, pleasuring her. Eros had definitely altered his way of thinking.At the foot of the winding staircase, Wei met them with one of his smiles and their clothing. Once they had changed, Wei led them back to the entrance-exit. The other "monks" seemed particularly scarce. Similarly, the huge guardian of the bridge was nowhere to be seen as they crossed it.Toshia set the pace down the trail for the Resort. She was clearly in a hurry to get on the road, or river, as the case may be, to this Grotto of Ishtar. Don kept up with her easily, but also kept an eye on Nicole, who didn't walk as fast as Don and Toshia even when they weren't hurrying. He could tell that something was troubling the pretty young woman, but his own mind was still bustling with too many questions for him to ask her what was on her mind. Still, he wasn't surprised when, as they came around the last corner and saw the Resort's gate ahead, Nicole asked them to stop for a moment."I thought I should tell you this before we found the others," Nicole said, taking a moment to sit down on a nearby rock."What is it?" Toshia said with obvious and honest concern."I'm not going back," Nicole said. "Well, not yet. I'm going to wait until I'm tired of this place. I don't really have anybody back home to hurry back to, Toshia, and I fucking love it here. I'd come along to make sure you get to the Grotto safely, but it sounds like you and Don will be able to do that without me. I don't think you'll be able to shake Shelonda anyway, but you might want to consider leaving Victor and Amy here at the Resort. You know the rest of Eros isn't so nice and friendly, and this place is safe."Don smiled at Nicole and said, "It's been great having you along with us for this long.""If they're right about time, we'll all wake up 'tomorrow' and email each other," Nicole smiled with a bit of sadness. "Well, allowing for the date difference, that is. You better come visit me, Professor."Don laughed, and said, "Of course! I'm already looking forward to it.""You can come stay with us in Florida," Toshia smiled. Don could see a tear in her eye.He decided to make things a bit easier on them all by changing the subject, "You know, she has a good point about the others."Toshia seemed to fasten upon this line of thought, saying, "Well, Shelonda's going to be very hurt if we don't allow her to come with us, I think.""I'm not sure we're in any position to allow or disallow her, actually," Don said."True," Toshia nodded. "So, the most we can do is encourage her to stay here. Probably that's the most we can do for all of them.""We could suggest that they need to stay here to keep an eye on Nicole," Don mused.Nicole laughed, and said, "Oh, I'm sure I'll be quite alright here.""And, what happens if Nicole does eventually get tired of this place and goes missing?" Don nodded. "Do people who don't remember their past lives do that? Damn, I should have thought of asking that earlier."

Have you ever found yourself standing in front of the pantry during a stressful moment, reaching for something sweet, salty, or crunchy—just to take the edge off? If so, you're not alone. In this episode of the Better Than Before Breast Cancer podcast, I open up about my own experience with emotional eating during cancer recovery and share gentle, compassionate strategies to help you understand and shift this pattern—without guilt or shame. We'll explore: -How cortisol (your stress hormone) drives cravings -What emotional triggers might be signaling -How to respond to your body's needs with love and presence You'll learn mindful, doable ways to support yourself when stress eating feels like the only option, plus calming alternatives that nourish both body and soul. Whether you're fresh out of treatment or navigating long-term survivorship, this episode is a supportive space for reflection, kindness, and taking small steps toward healing.  

We're sharing a Patreon exclusive to our Gathering Gold feed today! In this episode, we're responding to our patron Jenny's question about how to deal with the discomfort and fear that comes along with stretching our comfort zones. We talk about values-based actions, purpose and meaning, our individual window of tolerance, and the importance of self-compassion. Visit patreon.com/gatheringgold to gain access to 30+ bonus episodes, with new ones coming out each month! 

Halloumi Orzo Tray Bake Full of flavourful, vibrant everyday ingredients. This is quick and easy comfort food at its best. We encourage you to swap and change the vegetables with what needs to be used in your fridge and what's seasonal. To make this dairy free, either leave out the halloumi altogether or use a dairy free cheese alternative. Serves: 4 Time: 50 minutes 1 eggplant, cut into pieces 1 leek, sliced widthways 1 red onion, diced 180g cherry tomatoes, cut in half 3 cloves garlic, crushed and roughly chopped 3 tbsp oil 1 tsp sea salt 400g can of chopped tomatoes 3/4 cup water 3/4 cup orzo 250g halloumi (half cut into cubes and the other half grated) To Serve: 1/2 cup herbs, roughly chopped 2 tbsp tahini Method: Preheat the oven to 220C. Add the eggplant, leek, red onion, cherry tomatoes and garlic to a heat proof dish or pan- we used a skillet. Drizzle over the oil and sprinkle over the sea salt. Toss everything together and place in the oven to cook for 30 minutes. Remove the dish or pan from the oven and add the tomatoes, water, orzo and the halloumi cubes. Gently toss everything together, then lastly sprinkle over the grated halloumi. Place back into the oven to cook for another 20 minutes. Remove from the oven once the 20 minutes is up and the halloumi is golden and melted. Before serving, top the bake with herbs and drizzle over the tahini. Any leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if falling off track wasn't failure—but the way real change actually begins? In this episode of The Health Feast, I sit down with Dean Pohlman, founder of Man Flow Yoga and host of The Better Man Podcast. Dean's work has helped 1000s of men build mobility, strength, and confidence—but more than that, he's created space for something deeper: what he calls courageous authenticity. I've had a tremendous personal experience with Dean's program. In my 40s, when the aches started creeping in—back, knees, hips—I finally committed to a short daily practice. Just 15 minutes a day for three months, and everything shifted: less pain, better movement, and a whole new relationship with my body. Yoga is now a regular part of my rhythm, and I largely owe that to Dean and Man Flow Yoga—which makes it all the more meaningful to share this conversation with you. In This Episode, We Dive Into: Dean's story—from accidentally stumbling into a Bikram class to creating one of the most accessible fitness-focused yoga communities for men Why so many men struggle to slow down—and what we're really running from What it means to fall off track with our self-care—and the power of “getting back into it” How identity change starts with small wins and self-trust The power of courageous authenticity—why vulnerability might just be the key to real strength The power of creating spaces where men can connect, reflect, and talk about what really matters If something in you knows it's time to come back to yourself—this is a good place to start. Gently. Honestly. On your terms. Live well and RAK ON, Dr. Rak

Frances Fox remote views Adam Schiff's aura and his connections to members of congress-Trumps triumphant trip to Mid East- Et"s gently smile on Trump?....and more. :círculo_rojo: Watch this episode onFrances Fox remote views Adam Schiff's aura and his connections to members of congress-Trumps triumphant trip to Mid East- Et"s gently smile on Trump?....and more. :círculo_rojo: Watch this episode on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UyOuIqCOHg :círculo_violeta_grande: Remote vision Aura Analysis : store.francesfox.com/products :círculo_naranja_grande: Fox Psychic Amethyst glassses store.francesfox.com/collecti... :periódico: Newsletter: www.francesfox.com/newsletter :rezo: Become a Mantrista: www.francesfox.com/mantristas :delfín: www.francesfox.com :círculo_azul_grande: Follow our socials: Facebook: / francesfoxreveals TikTok: / francesfoxreveals Instagram: Mantrista Movement ................. :sonido: PODCASTS FRANCESFOX NEWS FROM OTHER DIMENSIONS Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3klq8Gm Spotify: spoti.fi/2ztsttt Stitcher: bit.ly/ffstitcher

Send us a textThis week let's chat about all of the reasons why some shoppers have decided to take a break from Amazon. Whether the environmental impact makes you uneasy, the treatment of their workers, or just the ease of impulse shopping- whatever rubs you the wrong way, you might be looking for ways to reduce your reliance on Amazon.Today let's talk about a baby step you may have never considered before- buying your books on Bookshop.org. Thousands of independent bookstores have signed up to sell books through this website and in 5 short years, almost $40 million has been raised to support independent bookstores in the US and the UK.Reconsidering your relationship with some of the big online retailers? Learn more in today's episode.Links from today's episode:Bookshop https://bookshop.org/ ICYMI another episode you might enjoy:Episode#166 The Financial Activist Playbook by Jasmine Rashid Book ReviewLove the book recos on this show? Check out the Progressive Pockets Bookshelf:https://bookshop.org/shop/progressivepockets As an affiliate of Bookshop.org, Progressive Pockets will earn a commission if you make a purchase.Connect With Genet “GG” Gimja:Website https://www.progressivepockets.comTwitter https://twitter.com/prgrssvpckts Work With Me:Email progressivepockets@gmail.com for brand partnerships, business inquiries, and speaking engagements.Easy Ways to Support the Show1. Send this episode to someone you know! Word of mouth is how podcasts grow!2. Buy me a coffee (or a soundproof panel!) https://buymeacoffee.com/progressivepockets 3. Leave a 5 star rating and review for the show!//NO AI TRAINING: Any use of this podcast episode transcript or associated show notes or blog posts to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. This includes, without limitation, technologies that are capable of generating works in the same style or genre as this content. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models//Support the show

We would love to hear from you! Please send us your comments here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Relax with the soft sound of rain trickling down a window as twilight settles in. This two-hour soundscape captures the quiet comfort of a rainy evening, perfect for deep sleep, reading, or quiet reflection. Ideal for stress relief, meditation, or creating a cozy ambiance.Lose the AD intros by becoming a subscriber!https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/asmr-rain-recordings--5347561/support

We're back with season 9 and over the next few weeks we'll be talking to some of the fabulous people we've met up with during our recent travels but this episode begins, as always with our chosen products: the first of which is Be-Gin a gin celebrating all things flowers and the second, a new range from Cointreau which zones in on citrus.Our book is spiritual wisdom, seasonality and locality personified, it's Hyper Drinks, the debut book from Angelos Bafas aka Mr Ungarnished, and we head to Shoreditch for Waltz, the new bar from Gento Torigata.For our first interview of the season we're talking to Rodrigo Urraca, Marcos Di Battista and Eric Van Beek, the dream team behind Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, recently taking the top slot on North America's 50 Best Bars List for the second consecutive year and currently number one in the world. We hear from them about the highs and lows of being number one and why they won't have their awards on the back bar.What we're mixing:Grand Mimosa90ml sparkling wine45ml orange juice15ml Grand MarnierOrange zest or slice to garnishMethod: Add 45ml of sparkling wine to a chilled wine glass, the add the fresh orange juice and Grand Marnier. Gently 'pull through', then top with the remains 45ml of sparkling wine. Garnish with the orange garnish or zest.For more from The Cocktail Lovers, visit thecocktaillovers.comFor the products featured in this episode, see websites below:Be!GinCointreau Citrus SeriesHandshake SpeakeasyHyper Drinks by Angelos BafasWaltz barWith special thanks to our sponsors of this episode The Can Makers The Cocktail Lovers theme music is by Travis 'T-Bone' WatsonEdited by Christian Fox Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I love getting screeners to watch and I recently got a screener for The Ruse, it is written and directed by Stevan Mena. This film was wonderful! Such a gripping thriller that kept you waiting for more. It will be released in theaters on May 16th, this Friday! Go check it out when you can. I had the pleasure of chatting with Stevan Mena over zoom and got to ask him a few questions about the film. Stevan recommended a Captain Morgan and Coke for the drink, but I also used ChatGPT to create a fun themed cocktail for you to make.If you are curious, The Ruse is about an in-home caregiver who fears for her life after being assigned to a mysterious elderly patient in a remote seaside home. Go to https://therusemovie.com/ to find a theatre near you.

Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player.  Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen  Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life.  If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want!  Namaste, Beautiful,

Navigating Indecision: A Simple Process to Move Forward Hey there, amazing friend! Ever caught yourself going round and round in circles, totally stuck on making a decision? That feeling where your brain just won't settle on which path to take? I've been there too, and in today's episode, I'm sharing exactly how to break free from that frustrating loop! I open up about my own battles with confusion and that knot-in-your-stomach anxiety that shows up when we're faced with choices. But don't worry - I've got something special for you today: a super practical process that will help you cut through the mental fog and finally move forward. Together, we'll explore how to tap into your imagination (yes, it's way more powerful than you think!) and discover the symbolic representations of what's really going on. It's amazing how our minds can show us the answers when we know how to look! What You'll Learn Today: Why indecision feels so uncomfortable (and why that's actually useful!) My step-by-step visualization process that unlocks hidden insights How to tune into what your unconscious mind is trying to tell you Simple techniques to transform your new awareness into confident action Whether you're deciding what to have for dinner or contemplating a major life change, this episode has something valuable for you. Now it's your turn! Give yourself 10 minutes to try it. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and follow along with the episode. Please take time to try this process for yourself. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and follow along. Then come share your experience in our community group or tag me on social media - I'd absolutely LOVE to hear what insights came up for you! Then come share your experience in our community group or tag me on social media - I'd absolutely LOVE to hear what insights came up for you! Here's the link to help you share the whole episode: https://personaldevelopmentunplugged.com/443-clearing-confusion-and-finding-direction-on-our-dreams Remember, you're not meant to stay stuck. Let's break free together! Shine Brightly

Beltane has arrived! May Day marks the sacred midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. It's a time to celebrate fertility, life, sexuality, and nature's renewal. It's also a time to honor one's body and to connect with the physical pleasures of life. But for many of us, it can also be a time of self-consciousness regarding our physical form. This scrutiny can keep us from experiences that offer deep joy and pleasure. Body neutrality offers us a path forward, even when our body fails to meet all of our expectations. When we find acceptance with our bodies, we open ourselves up to a deeply fulfilling, embodied life. As we stroll through the woods on this idyllic spring day, consider embodiment practices worth exploring in your own magical life! What am I reading?The Live Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigmanhttps://bookshop.org/a/111301/9781250278104Intention Obsession : A Practical and Fun Witchcraft Companion with Self-Care Rituals and DIY Projects, Embrace Your Inner Witch and Manifest Your Dreams by Erica Feldmannhttps://bookshop.org/a/111301/9780063353336https://bookshop.org/shop/witchywomanwalkingWhat's playing on repeat?In the Mirror by The Interrupters What's for dinner? Roasted Brussels Sprout, Beet, and Salmon Salad Ingredients:3 large beetsExtra virgin olive oil24 ounces fresh Brussels sprouts2 salmon filets 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar1 tablespoon grainy mustard1 tablespoon maple syrup 2-3 ounces goat cheeseSalt and pepper Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Peel and dice beets. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper, drizzle beets with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Spread onto cookie sheet. Wash and slice Brussels sprouts. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper, drizzle sprouts with olive oil, season with salt and proper. Spread onto cookie sheet. Bake salmon in oven or instant pot (skin side down). Brush with olive oil and salt and pepper. In a large bowl, add the olive oil, vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, salt and pepper. Add roasted sprouts, beets, and cooked quinoa to bowl. Gently break apart salmon with a fork, add to bowl. Top with goat cheese. Mix thoroughly until coated with dressing.Lemon Blueberry BreadIngredients1 ¾ whole wheat flour + 1 teaspoon to coat the berries1/2 teaspoon baking powder½ teaspoon baking soda¼ teaspoon salt1 cup plain Greek yogurt½ cup maple syrup⅓ cup coconut oil melted2 eggs at room temperature1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice1 tablespoon lemon zest1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 cup fresh blueberriesInstructionsPreheat oven to 350 F. Grease and flour a loaf pan and set aside.In a medium bowl combine the dry ingredients together.In a large bowl combine the wet ingredients.Gently fold in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.In a small bowl with a teaspoon of flour coat the blueberries and toss it. Fold the blueberries into the batter.Pour batter into the greased loaf pan and bake 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.Support the show

There are many places to acquire food and household items in the greater Los Angeles area. You could go to Costco, you could go to Ralphs, you could even swing by 99 Ranch. Or if you listen to this episode with the delightful Sierra Katow, you could visit all these places and let Sierra do the driving while you zonk off to sleep, sated with the audio equivalent of free samples of tasty snacks. You might have seen Sierra on Sex Lives of College Girls or Last Comic Standing or perhaps you've heard her as one of the hosts of Maximum Fun's TV Chef Fantasy League. Or maybe you just know her from the produce aisle.Listen to TV Chef Fantasy League at www.MaximumFun.org/podcasts/TV-Chef-Fantasy-League or on the podcatcher of your choice. Watch Sierra's stand-up special Sierra Katow: Funt on Amazon Prime.Go to www.maximumfun.org/join and select Sleeping with Celebrities to support our show.Hey Sleepy Heads, is there anyone whose voice you'd like to drift off to, or do you have suggestions on things we could do to aid your slumber? Email us at: sleepwithcelebs@maximumfun.org.Follow the Show on:Instagram @sleepwcelebsBluesky @sleepwithcelebsTikTok @SleepWithCelebsJohn is on Bluesky @JohnMoeJohn's acclaimed, best-selling memoir, The Hilarious World of Depression, is now available in paperback.

Feel like nothing's changing no matter how hard you try? Before you give up, listen to this. In this episode, we talk about the quiet kind of healing—the kind that starts beneath the surface. You'll learn what's actually happening in your body when you start changing your habits, even if you don't see results yet. Because just because you can't feel it, doesn't mean it's not working.  

Why do our kids lose it over the smallest things—and how can we help them hold it together? In this insightful episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack what emotional regulation really means and share a simple 3-step framework to help kids (and parents!) handle big feelings more effectively. Whether it's tantrums, sibling fights, or homework meltdowns, these tools will help your family build emotional resilience—without losing your cool. KEY POINTS: Emotional regulation is about expressing or suppressing emotions appropriately to achieve long-term goals. Most children develop consistent regulation skills by age 9, but they still need support along the way. Regulation isn’t about suppressing feelings—it’s about processing them constructively. Parents must model regulation themselves, not just expect it from their kids. Three powerful parenting tools: Support, don’t solve – Be present and connected without taking over. Offer hints – Gently guide children through overwhelm with small, manageable steps. Read the room – Check for physical or emotional needs that might be driving big reactions. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:“Support, don’t solve—it builds competence, autonomy, and connection all at once.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Walter Mischel's Marshmallow Experiment Self-Determination Theory HappyFamilies.com.au ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Pause before reacting—check your own emotional state before helping your child regulate theirs. Name the emotion and offer empathy—validate your child’s feelings without fixing them. Break big tasks into chunks—help your child manage overwhelm one step at a time. Create a regulation-friendly environment—watch for hunger, fatigue, or stress that may fuel dysregulation. Model emotional regulation—let your child see you process your emotions calmly and respectfully. Resources Mentioned: Walter Mischel's Marshmallow Experiment Self-Determination Theory HappyFamilies.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode was written and produced by Risa Dickens, featuring the song Marram by Matt Carmichael  About Missing WitchesAmy Torok and Risa Dickens produce the Missing Witches Podcast. We do every aspect from research to recording, it is a DIY labour of love and craft. Missing Witches is entirely member-supported, and getting to know the members of our Coven has been the most fun, electrifying, unexpectedly radical part of the project. These days the Missing Witches Coven gathers in our private, online coven circle to offer each other collaborative courses in ritual, weaving, divination, and more; we organize writing groups and witchy book clubs; and we gather on the Full and New Moon from all over the world. Our coven includes solitary practitioners, community leaders, techno pagans, crones, baby witches, neuroqueers, and folks who hug trees and have just been looking for their people. Our coven is trans-inclusive, anti-racist, feminist, pro-science, anti-ableist, and full of love. If that sounds like your people, come find out more. Please know that we've been missing YOU. https://www.missingwitches.com/join-the-coven/

Embrace the beauty of your accent in this self-compassion meditation that guides you in a reflection of your history, heritage, and connection to your ancestors.How To Do This Practice: Find a Comfortable Position: Sit in a relaxed yet alert posture, either on a cushion or chair. Gently lower your gaze or close your eyes if that feels comfortable. Focus on Your Breath: Take a deep breath in and slowly exhale. Allow yourself to transition from your daily activities into this moment of reflection. Acknowledge Your Accent: Bring awareness to the way you speak, recognizing that your voice carries your history, culture, and personal journey. Repeat Self-Compassion Phrases: Silently or aloud, repeat affirmations such as, “my accent makes me unique,” “my accent carries my story,” “my accent connects me to my ancestors.” Place a Hand on Your Heart: If it feels right, gently place a hand on your heart, offering yourself warmth and kindness as you continue to breathe deeply. Close with Gratitude: Take a final deep breath, sending appreciation to yourself, your ancestors, and the uniqueness of your voice before gently opening your eyes. Scroll down for a transcription of this episode.Today's Happiness Break host:CRISS CUERVO is a mindfulness and meditation teacher, Bridging Differences Coordinator at the Greater Good Science Center, and author of PERTENÆCER: Eight-Week Mindfulness and Meditation Training and Practices for Latinx Immigrants in the United. Learn more about Criss Cuervo here: https://tinyurl.com/4npjwn6mRead her book here: https://tinyurl.com/3byby84bRelated Happiness Break episodes:A Meditation on Original Love: https://tinyurl.com/5u298cv4Loving Kindness Meditation: https://tinyurl.com/2kr4fjz5Where Did You Come From: https://tinyurl.com/2y9uyjj6Related Science of Happiness episodes:How to Show Up For Yourself: https://tinyurl.com/56ktb9xcHow to Tune Out The Noise: https://tinyurl.com/4hhekjuh How to Feel Better About Yourself: https://tinyurl.com/42fn62a2Follow us on Instagram: @ScienceOfHappinessPodWe'd love to hear about your experience with this practice! Share your thoughts at happinesspod@berkeley.edu or use the hashtag #happinesspod. Find us on Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapHelp us share Happiness Break! Leave a 5-star review and share this link: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5aapTranscription: https://tinyurl.com/kv5ycj3v