Anxious to Calm(er)

I have always appeared to be a laid-back guy. I can mostly take things in stride without getting upset. I say, “Let’s just wait and see how things turn out.”

But inside, I can be pretty anxious at times, trying to keep others happy and avoid tension in relationships.

Different things I have tried have helped some, including retreats and other things outdoors. I learned a progressive relaxation method years ago and have guided others through, and do it myself sometimes.

Prayer and other faith practices have helped, but I never seem to have enough faith to completely let go of my anxious feelings.

Then, a few years ago I studied Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. This was revolutionary for me, and I have been trying to implement it and teach it ever since.

This was pre-pandemic, pre-world crises when anxiety has gone through the roof for many people. Now, we need ways to calm and center ourselves more than ever. And the problems seem so much larger and difficult, but I know from experience that being in the moment helps.

I’ve taught workshops and offered recorded meditations. But now I want to reach more folks and build something that has a bigger impact. So, the podcast “Encouraging Being” is was born. The phrase “spitting into the wind” comes to mind because a podcast is just a small step, right? But big change can come from small steps done consistently over time.

Now I need your help. Listen to Encouraging Being. Send me feedback.

If it works for you, subscribe on apple or other major podcast directories. And send it on to others.

Here is a direct link: https://encouragingbeing.buzzsprout.com

When you click on the link, here’s what you will find: a 7-9 minute podcast that can give you a different perspective. Each episode tells a story, refers to a scripture, and a mindful exercise. It is brief, so you can use it and get on with your life!

Let me know what you think!

Jay