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Calm it Down

161 episodes - English - Latest episode: 17 days ago - ★★★★★ - 443 ratings

Helping you calm the mind in a world full of noise.

Mental Health Health & Fitness emotional health meditate meditation mindfulness wellness calm guided meditation self help mental health self care
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Episodes

The Firefly Within: Healing Childhood Wounds

April 02, 2024 07:05 - 22 minutes

Have you ever felt like a part of you is stuck in the past, holding onto old wounds and patterns? In this episode, we'll explore the transformative power of inner child healing. Join me as I share personal stories and practical tools for reconnecting with your younger self, honoring your past hurts, and reclaiming the joy and wholeness that can be truly your's. Together, we'll discover how tending to your inner child can help you release old baggage, heal deep-seated wounds, and shine your un...

Making Friends with Failure: Embracing Setbacks as Stepping Stones

March 26, 2024 07:05 - 27 minutes

Have you ever poured your heart into a dream, only to watch it crumble before your eyes? In those gut-wrenching moments, it's easy to believe that failure is a reflection of our worth - that we're simply not good enough. But what if we could rewrite that story and learn to see failure in a new light? In this episode, we'll explore how to make friends with failure, reframing our setbacks as powerful teachers and discovering the hidden gifts within our most humbling moments. Listen in as I unco...

Simply Human: Stories Behind the Faces

March 19, 2024 07:02 - 22 minutes

Have you ever wondered who the person is behind the roles we see every day? In this episode, we wander through the metaphorical market of life, exploring the stories behind the faces of bakers, artists, and even those we pass by without a second thought. I'm Chad Lawson, and I invite you to join me in discovering what it truly means to be "Simply Human." Let's peel back the layers together, looking beyond the labels to connect, understand, and celebrate the shared journey of humanity. This e...

Embracing Connection in a Lonely World

March 12, 2024 07:01 - 27 minutes

Ever felt lonely, even when you're not alone? This episode dives into why we all feel lonely sometimes and what we can do about it. I talk about the challenge of making friends as adults and share ideas on how to connect with others more easily. Let's find out together how one new friend could change everything as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1. Episode Sponsors: In this episode, I've teamed up with Wild Health, a revolutionary approach to personalized healthcare. Using precision medicine, th...

In the Waiting: Discovering Peace in Life's Pauses

March 05, 2024 08:00 - 25 minutes

Have you ever noticed how waiting, something we often see as just an annoying pause, can actually be filled with wonder and purpose? In this episode, I dive into the magical moments of waiting, exploring how these pauses are meant to enrich our lives. With the new collaboration release with Endel Music and my song "In the Waiting," we'll explore a simple yet profound breathing exercise to help us embrace these moments. Join me, and let's discover the beauty and peace waiting can bring into ou...

From Worn-Out Tees to Inner Peace: Letting Go of Emotional Baggage

February 27, 2024 08:00 - 21 minutes

Ever found an old t-shirt you just can't throw away? In this episode, "From Worn-Out Tees to Inner Peace: Letting Go of Emotional Baggage," I talk about why we hold onto stuff and feelings we don't need. We'll see how letting go helps clear our minds and makes room for new things. Listen in as we learn how getting rid of the old can bring us peace as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1. This episode is sponsored by Honeylove Check out Honeylove for comfy bras and shapewear that boost your confidenc...

Not Alone: Finding Connection in a Crowded World

February 20, 2024 08:00 - 27 minutes

Ever felt alone even when you're around lots of people? In this episode, we talk about feeling lonely and how to make real friends. Let's dive in and find ways to feel more connected and part of a group. Let's figure out how to turn feeling alone into feeling supported and connected together as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1. This episode is sponsored by Factor. Check out Factor Meals for easy, tasty, and healthy eating. Get chef-crafted meals delivered to your door, ready in minutes. Perfect ...

Seasons of Grief: Discovering Hope in The Whispering Garden

February 13, 2024 08:00 - 26 minutes

Have you ever thought about where our grief goes when we're trying to feel happy again? In this episode, I'm going to talk about a special place in our minds called "The Whispering Garden." It's a place where grief and hope meet. We'll walk through areas that help us accept our grief, reflect on our memories, and find ways to heal and grow stronger. How can understanding our grief help us find strength and hope? Join me as we search for answers and learn how to grow from our grief as we Calm ...

Finding Your Museum: The Art of Personal Value

February 06, 2024 08:00 - 28 minutes

Ever wondered how the people and places around you affect how you feel about yourself? This episode digs into how our environment and friendships can really make us feel valued, kind of like finding where we fit best in the world. I'll share insights inspired by an intriguing story about an old pocket watch, showing us why it’s important to pick and choose what’s in our lives carefully.  This episode is sponsored by: Earth Breeze Our friends at Earth Breeze are here to show us a simple way to...

From Burnout to Bliss: Strategies for Beating Burnout

January 30, 2024 08:00 - 32 minutes

Have you ever felt overwhelmed, like you're carrying a weight that's just too heavy? As if little by little your sinking deeper into an ocean without realizing?  In this episode, we explore the often-hidden struggles of burnout, its gradual grip on our lives, and its impact on our everyday well-being. Join us to learn practical strategies for lightening that load and rediscovering balance. What steps will you take to lift the weight of stress and journey towards a more peaceful state of mind?...

Life in Focus: Seeing Past the Details

January 23, 2024 08:00 - 24 minutes

Have you ever felt like there's more to your story than you can see? In this episode of 'Calm It Down', I'm taking you on a journey to uncover the bigger picture of our lives. We're going to try out three different ways to look at ourselves, ways that really change how we understand who we are. Let's put down the magnifying glass and look at our lives with a wider view, to find the beautiful, complicated parts of our stories. Come along and discover a new way to see your life as we Calm it Do...

Embracing Change: Learning Why, When, and How

January 16, 2024 08:00 - 29 minutes

Have you ever thought about how much you change in ways that you can't see in photos? Today on 'Calm it Down', we're going to talk all about change. We'll look at why we change, when it usually happens, and how to deal with it. This is especially important for the changes that surprise us or that we didn't want. So, get comfy and take a deep breath. We're going to learn how to accept changes in our life and grow from them. Ready to calm down and learn about change? Let's Calm it Down in 3…2…1...

The Art of Letting Go: Finding What You Need by Letting Go

January 09, 2024 08:00 - 37 minutes

In this Calm it Down episode, we explore the power of our inner thoughts through Olympic skater Dan Jansen's story. It's absolutely captivating, incredible, and even educational all at the same time, offering insightful lessons on how to transform our self-talk from self-doubt to self-confident. Learn how changing our self-talk can turn pressures into triumphs, and discover simple strategies to shift your mindset. Listen in as I share some insights on embracing life's challenges with a gentl...

Beyond Fireworks: Unveiling Our True Desires in the New Year

January 02, 2024 08:00 - 32 minutes

In this episode I invite you to join me in a journey beyond the usual New Year's resolutions. We dive deep into understanding what really makes us happy and how to find lasting joy in our lives. At the core of the episode is the reflective question, "When was the last time I felt truly at peace, not just content, but truly at peace?" Listen in as I share insights on how small, daily actions can lead to big changes and help us stay true to ourselves. It's a not so subtle deep-dive into our pe...

Gifts We Didn't Ask For: Turning Unwanted Gifts into Life Lessons

December 26, 2023 08:00 - 34 minutes

In this episode, I take you on a journey through the unexpected surprises of life, much like those surprise gifts we find under the Christmas tree (socks, anyone?). I share some insights on how to turn those moments of disappointment into opportunities for growth and creativity. Listen in to learn how to embrace and find joy in life's unexpected turns. Trust me, it’s something you’ll want to unwrap as we discover how these surprising moments can become the most valuable gifts we never knew ...

Living Differently: Beyond Just Holding On

December 19, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutes

In this episode of 'Calm it Down,' we explore a less-traveled street: the street of hope. I dive into how hope is an everyday choice, not just a fleeting emotion. We'll look at creative ways to nurture this vital feeling, like building your own 'Hope Chest' and envisioning conversations with a future, wiser you.  This episode isn't just about finding hope; it's about practical, relatable ways create & see it in our daily lives. And even though Theodore Roosevelt was somewhat inspiring with hi...

The Sweetness of Doing Nothing (La Dolce Far Niente)

December 12, 2023 08:00 - 32 minutes

When was the last time you did absolutely nothing, on purpose? In this episode, "The Sweetness of Doing Nothing," I explore how taking time to just be can actually boost your creativity and calm your mind. From the joy of reading slowly to the peace of mindful movement, I'll share simple ways to embrace rest in your everyday life. Tune in and find out how doing less can surprisingly bring you more as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

Lighter Paths: From Past Regrets to Present Moments

December 05, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutes

This week we pick up where we left off in last week's episode, "The Echoes of Yesterday: Living in Memories vs. Moments." We take a long hike into the world of regrets. We learn how regrets can actually be our hidden guides, teaching us valuable lessons instead of weighing us down.  So, if you are ready to turn those 'what ifs' into a path forward, listen in and find out how to transform your yesterday into a brighter today as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

The Echoes of Yesterday: Living in Memories vs. Moments

November 28, 2023 08:00 - 33 minutes

In this episode we dive into the art of balancing our cherished memories with the beauty of living in the present. I discuss how our past experiences shape us and share practical tips to help you fully engage with each moment. Join me on a journey of self-discovery, where we learn to appreciate every day, not just as a memory but as a part of our ongoing story. Listen in as we explore making the most of the now while honoring our past as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

Embracing the Gray: Finding Peace in Cloudy Days

November 21, 2023 08:00 - 21 minutes

Ever found solace under a cloudy sky? In this episode of Calm it Down, we delve into the hidden beauty of life's grayer days. Discover how embracing these moments can bring unexpected growth and tranquility. Join me for some reflection into understanding and appreciating the quiet, profound lessons hidden in the clouds. Tune in to uncover the strength in stillness and the wisdom in life's softer shades as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Illuminating Shadows: Finding Your Light in the Dark

November 14, 2023 08:00 - 37 minutes

Ever thought you could find some real-life wisdom in Harry Potter? In this episode of 'Calm it Down,' we're getting into just that. It's all about finding your own light, even when things feel kinda dark. I’ll share with you some ways to ‘shed some light’ with ideas like 'Shadow Mapping' and making a 'Gratitude Nightlight' to spot the happy moments hiding in everyday life. So, come hang out, find out how to brighten up your world a bit, and grab some ‘bright’ ideas (pun intended) on riding ou...

Trusting our Decisions (Part 2)

November 07, 2023 08:00 - 34 minutes

In this episode, we dive deep into the maze of decision-making. Ever felt stuck at a crossroads or questioned a past choice? Together, we'll navigate through moments of doubt, find strength in every twist and turn, and uncover the beauty in every decision. Join me as I continue the dialogue from a listener's question “What are you to do when you’ve committed your whole life to a passion and you’re no longer passionate about it?”. Well, let's look for some clarity in the chaos of our journeys ...

The Crossroads of Commitment: Passion vs Persistence (Part 1)

October 31, 2023 14:39 - 27 minutes

In this episode, I explore the balance between sticking to what's familiar and trying something new. We all face crossroads in life, but I had a listener write in and ask “What are you to do when you’ve committed your whole life to a passion and you’re no longer passionate about it?”, something I think we've all gone through at some point. We try to understand the emotional tugs of change and how to make decisions with clarity with this Part 1 of a 2 part series on Passion vs Persistence. Jo...

The Flavor of Humility

October 24, 2023 07:00 - 24 minutes

Ever swapped salt for sugar in a recipe? I’m sure you’ve had better moments than these. Join me as we navigate through the lesson of baking a humble cookie. Together, we'll knead through the tender courage it takes to say, “I was wrong,” finding humor and growth in our little oops moments. This episode is an invitation to embrace life’s missteps and bake them into our stories with a pinch of self-amusement.. Tune in, and let's bake up some insights together as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

The Rush of Hurry Sickness

October 17, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes

Ever felt life's moving too fast, like you're guzzling down a mug of instant coffee? Today, I chat about this rush we're all in, what’s actually known as "hurry sickness". Join me as I explore some ideas and ponder why we're all glued to….everything. Take a minute to slow down and hear what a good cup of coffee can teach us about soaking in the moment. Let's appreciate the moment of now as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

Deflating the Sunday Scaries: Mindfulness in Every Breath (Bonus Episode w/Endel)

October 15, 2023 07:00 - 12 minutes

Deflate the Sunday Scaries with this special bonus episode of Calm it Down. Join me as we dive deep into the art of breath work and discover how your breathing patterns can be your personal emotional barometer. I'm SO excited to be using the incredibly soothing accompaniment of my album Breathe: Endel Meditation Edition in this episode. Together, we'll journey to turn each of your 23,000 daily breaths into a moment of mindfulness. Say goodbye to Sunday Scaries and hello to a serene start to ...

From Mental Weeds to Mental Wellness

October 10, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes

Ever felt like your mind's a bit like a wild garden, with thoughts popping up like unexpected daisies or maybe some stubborn dandelions? In this episode, we're taking a stroll through our mental gardens, figuring out which 'plants' to water and which 'weeds' might just be misunderstood.  We’re celebrating Mental Health Awareness Day. So join me. Dive in, grab your gardening gloves, and let me share some ideas that might just change how you see your inner world. Today, let’s get our hands a li...

Navigating Life: Your Compass of Compassion

October 03, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes

Ever feel like you're navigating a maze of emotions without a map? In today's episode, we explore the ultimate guide you didn't know you had: compassion. Believe it or not, it's the emotional GPS you've been searching for, and it's about to make your journey a whole lot smoother. Tune in and let's find our way together as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1. This episode is sponsored by OneSkin & BetterHelp Get 15% off OneSkin with the codeCALMathttps://www.oneskin.co/#oneskinpod BetterHelp.com/CALMIT ...

Stitches in Time

September 26, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes

Ever paused to think of your life as a tapestry? Those intricate designs, each thread telling a part of a grander story? In today's episode, I invite you to delve into the art of weaving your own life's tapestry, intertwining memories from the past, moments from the present, and dreams of the future. Along the way, I'll share insights on navigating those tricky knots and choosing threads that truly reflect your essence. Join me as we thread through this thing called life in 3...2...1.

The Sound of Stillness

September 19, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes

You know that silence just before an orchestra's first note? In this episode, 'The Sound of Stillness’ we explore the amazing power of silence in our noisy world.  Imagine your thoughts as a symphony, each one playing its part in the grand composition of your life. Listen in to discover how to become the maestro of your own inner orchestra and why silence could be your most captivating performance yet. Let’s hear the silence as we Calm it Down in 3…2…1.

Dance of Your Ripple: The Unseen Impact You Make

September 12, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes

Have you ever tossed a pebble into a calm pond and watched the ripples? It's fascinating, isn't it!? In this episode of 'Calm it Down', we dive into how our everyday actions create waves, just like that pebble. Join me as we explore the simple moments that shape the world around us and the lasting impact we can have. Tune in and discover the power of your ripple as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

Mastering the Palette of Your Emotions

September 05, 2023 07:00 - 19 minutes

Ready to get colorful with your feelings? Think of your emotions as a palette, filled with blues of sadness, reds of passion, and every hue in between. Listen in as we dig into how to mix and balance these colors to paint a picture of a life truly felt. Get your brushes ready; we're about to create an emotional masterpiece as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.

The Compass of Intuition (Summer Archive)

August 29, 2023 07:00 - 20 minutes

Some nights you just lay there asking yourself "did I do the right thing today? Did I turn right when perhaps I should have turned left? The mind spinning the spiral of questions of should haves. But today, I'm going to share with you something that has guided from day one and will do so for the rest of life; your gut. That intuition, that inner voice giving you the road map one step at a time. Sometimes we doubt the turns and that's okay. Detours eventually get us where we need to be; when ...

You Can't Always Get What You Want (Summer Archive)

August 22, 2023 07:00 - 12 minutes

Sure, sure, you’ve heard the Rolling Stones’ “You Can't Always Get What You Want”?, since you were knee-high but do you KNOW the story behind it!? Who would have thought we would tackle the subject of depression with Mick Jagger as our inspiration?! Join me as we break down what depression really is and what we can do about it. Listen in as you may “just get what you need.” (Sorry, couldn’t resist!)

Beyond the Shell: Resilience, Beauty, and New Beginnings

August 15, 2023 07:00 - 14 minutes

Have you ever wondered which creature truly symbolizes the spirit of a “breakthrough”? Imagine an animal, which seems to be trapped, though patient while still determined to kick free and begin a new, vibrant existence. As it unfolds, we're left spellbound, witnessing a scene that's both poignant and powerful. This isn't your typical nature story; it's a reflection of our shared battles and victories. Listen in as I explore this inspiring tale and the parallels it draws to our own lives. Get ...

Life Lessons (Summer Archive)

August 01, 2023 07:00 - 13 minutes

Everyone should know the warning signs when our bodies are telling us we're under too much stress but what to do about it is rarely taught. Which means it’s usually swept under the rug and never mentioned. Why is that? We know how to cook 3-4 meals, make 2-3 cocktails even but when it comes to stress or anxiety we panic, completely shut down and just hope it never comes back....but it always does. Today, you're going to learn 2 very important life-lessons to pull out when the stress is pullin...

You Are Not a Fish - The Importance of Self Worth (Summer Archive)

July 25, 2023 07:00 - 10 minutes

"I'm worthless.", said the fish. "I can't even climb a tree. The squirrel can. Look at him." We're each uniquely, and beautifully, different. And while we each have traits/talents that are ours, what happens when we strip those 'things' away. Who are we at our core? Listen in to this archived summer episode as we learn the importance of Self Worth in 3...2...1.

The Wall We Build (Comfortably Numb) - Summer Archive

July 18, 2023 07:00 - 14 minutes

Who would've thought we would learn so much from Pink Floyd's 1979 album, The Wall. As life happens, we get the various bumps, setbacks and punches below the belt. All of these and more lead to us "protecting ourselves" but what if it's that 'protection' that's hindering us from being our full potential? This wall, this shield we build around ourselves may not be what we think it is. Listen in to this archived episode as we break down the ideas behind 'The Wall' in our hopes to no longer ...

The Iceberg of Nostalgia (Summer Archive)

July 11, 2023 08:00 - 14 minutes

Aw, nostalgia. Traversing merrily down memory lane is such a delight, until it isn't. Sure it's fun to see old pictures of what you wore 30 years ago is now making a come back but the short "just a glance" can quickly turn to a "how great things used to be." But today, I ask a most poignant question "was it?" Was it really all that great? Was it everything that right now isn't? I challenge you do listen to my thoughts on yesteryear. You may be surprised on the take I have. Listen in as we s...

The Puzzle of Grief - Summer Archive

July 04, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes

Let's chat about grief. It's a heavy word, but what if we looked at it differently. Instead of seeing it as something purely sad, we explore how it can actually reminds us of what we deeply care about. We'll journey together through this idea, discovering that even in sadness, there's a bright side — a testament to love and meaningful connections. Come along on this unique exploration of grief, where we celebrate the strength, love, and life it unexpectedly represents as we Calm it Down in ...

Be Kind, Rewind, Life on VHS - Summer Archive

June 27, 2023 12:32 - 13 minutes

What would you do if movie magic became reality? If, in the movies, we could always get what we wanted by just wishing hard enough or following our hearts, life would be a dream. However, as we all know, this is not the case. In real life, things don't always go according to plan. We make mistakes and sometimes life doesn't turn out the way we hoped it would. Just like in the movies, though, there is still much to be learned from these less-than-perfect moments. But listen in as you'll see ...

The Struggle is Real - Summer Archive

June 20, 2023 07:00 - 17 minutes

In today's episode, we grapple with the notion that if you can't break it down to a child, how can you truly grasp it yourself? We'll journey into the world of 'hardship', as interpreted through the poignant insights of The Velveteen Rabbit. Paying tribute to Thich Nhat Hanh, we'll explore the concept that when you immerse yourself completely in each fleeting moment, you are indeed fully experiencing life itself. Let's dive in, shall we, in 3...2...1.

Where Does Your Happiness Come From? (Summer Archive)

June 13, 2023 07:00 - 14 minutes

Do we ever stop to wonder where our moments of joy and happiness come from during our daily routine? Today's podcast episode aims to explore this thought-provoking question. We're taking a break from the usual rush to understand our emotions better. We'll find out that the source of our happiness isn't as hidden as we may think. By understanding it, we can tap into it more, bringing more joy into our day-to-day lives. Tune in to discover more about your happiness and where it truly comes from.

Scars of Hope (Summer Archive)

June 06, 2023 07:00 - 15 minutes

Scars. Scars are hard. They’re a reminder of something we went through that we would rather forget. They can be a source of shame, or a source of strength. And no matter what they look like, or where they are, scars always have a story to tell. But the most interesting thing is 'how' our scars can not only empower us personally but be the hope in the lives of others. Listen into this rebroadcast from March of 2022 as we Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

It's Okay to Be Sad (Summer Archive)

May 30, 2023 14:55 - 13 minutes

Great. Everything is….great, supposedly. The pressure to look great, to feel great, to post something great but what if I just don't feel great. What if at my core I’m just sad. A study from 2017 stated an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. That was 2017. WAY before we pulled out the KN95s. This episode I’m going to share three reasons why feeling sad perhaps isn’t so bad after all; for a season.

Perfectly Overrated. Dealing with Life's Imperfections

May 23, 2023 08:00 - 24 minutes

Ever pondered why perfection seems overrated? In this episode, "Perfectly Overrated: You're Doing Better Than You Think," I turn this idea on its head. Just like the unique charm in a lopsided mug or a hat-shaped bowl, life's almost whimsical imperfections make us who we are. Listen in as I dive into an art form where 'perfect' isn’t always the goal, and exploring how the lessons from a potter's wheel can help us embrace our own wonderfully imperfect lives. Join me, as we reshape our perspe...

Your Favorite Picture (Previously Released Episode)

May 16, 2023 08:00 - 12 minutes

What is your favorite picture? The one at your desk or hanging on a wall that always seems turn any day of rain into sun. While that picture is your emotional go to, what if I told you there's more pictures waiting to be made. But sometimes it's easier to live in yesteryear than in the moment at hand. Listen in to this episode of Calm it Down podcast where I share some thoughts about what really makes the perfect picture.

Name It to Tame It: Naming Your Fears and Taking Control

May 09, 2023 08:00 - 22 minutes

Are you afraid of the dark? Do clowns give you the heebie-jeebies? Does the thought of public speaking make you want to run for the hills? Fear not, my friend! This episode is here to teach you how to "Name It to Tame It.", IT as in "your fears!" Listen in as I share how naming your biggest fear immediately gives you control to conquer them like the brave soul you are! Buckle up, buttercup, and get ready to face your fears head-on! Let's Calm it Down in 3...2...1.

The Art of Being Content: Avoiding Complacency

May 02, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes

Are you tired of constantly chasing after happiness and feeling like you're never quite satisfied? Well, in this episode, I explore the difference between contentment and complacency, and how the Finnish have mastered the art of being the happiest country in the world for the 6th straight year! What is in the WATER up there!? Join me as I share some tips on how to cultivate contentment in your life, and why it's so important to avoid becoming complacent.

Whose Life Are You Living? Rediscovering Your Path and Charting Your Own Course

April 25, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutes

We often find ourselves lost in the expectations of others, societal norms, and the dreams of our loved ones. It's easy to forget that our lives should be a reflection of our selves; what we imagine our life to be. But what if we could reclaim our lives and chart our own course? This is the journey of self-discovery that we embark on in this episode. Join me as we explore the process of untangling the web of external influences, embracing our individuality, and making intentional choices tha...