Look for any podcast host, guest or anyone
Showing episodes and shows of

Mary Christopher

Shows

The Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Monarch Butterfly Podcast ~ Interview with Christopher, founder of LiveMonarch.comOn July 22, 2022, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) added the migratory monarch butterfly to its “red list” of threatened species.  It is now categorized as “endangered” which is two steps from extinction. Known for its spectacular annual journey of up to 3,000 miles across the Americas, the Monarchs are threatened by habitat destruction, pesticides, and climate change.  In this interview, Christopher (not related) tells how he became interested in Monarchs and their survival more than 21 years ago.  As his commitment to the survival of Monarchs grew, he founded the Live Monarch Educational Foundation.  Since then he has sent...2022-09-2532 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ August 28 2022 One Reason Being in Nature Is HealingMy Apologies !!!  The sound quality for the first half of this podcast is not as good as the second half.  I had the microphone headed down instead of up!  I discovered this about halfway thru and fixed it right away.  If you want, you can skip the first half of the podcast and just listen to the back half which includes the meditation.  Won't let that happen again !!! How are you doing today?  Are you feeling grumpy and out-of-sorts or centered and calm and relatively content? If you are feeling generally content with yourself, that is won...2022-08-2841 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ August 21 2022 Readings from Love Poems from GOD collected by Daniel LadinskyThere are days and sometimes even weeks when I feel like "the world is too much with us"!  My mother taught English literature and loved to quote Shakespeare at relevant times.  For me, this was one of those weeks.  I had put too many items on my to-do list and some items took longer than I anticipated.  By the end of the week, I was frustrated and somewhat burned out. This doesn't happen to me often, but when it does I do my best to take 1 or 2 days OFF, completely OFF, and just read or take long walk...2022-08-2242 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ August 14 2022 ~ Magic, Mystery and ConsciousnessWhen I first went outside and sat down in the yard to do this podcast, a small bird flew into the Trees on my left side and started chirping.   Every time I turned my head to look for the little bird, it stopped chirping!  After about 5 minutes it stopped chirping and flew away!  So then I started the podcast.   For me, being in Nature is magical and also a mystery.  I never know who will show up or fly by or what will drop in out of the trees.  Could be an acorn or a feather or a leaf. ...2022-08-1543 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ August 7 2022 Creating Emotional Stability and Coherence in NatureDuring the past week, I have been researching and writing for a new eBook.  It is about the effects of technology and all our digital devices on the neurons that make up our nervous system.  So many of us are spending more and more time indoors rather than outdoors.  We are also spending more time in front of our screens absorbing more digital information than we can even begin to imagine. And, we expect our Brain, the processing center for all the information we absorb, to somehow manage this constant inflow.  We assume that this "digital input" has...2022-08-0734 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ July 31 2022 Being Grateful for What We Often Take ForgrantedBeautiful morning here in the Atlanta area.  We had rain yesterday so the air is clear and fresh.  I love being outside in the morning when it is still quiet.  This is a great time for our meditation to get our day off to a great start. During July in Meditation class, we have been focused on Gratitude, specifically being grateful for some of the very essential things we often take for granted.  Among those would be our little toe, very essential for balance, our opposable thumbs which allow us to use tools, and our amazing Heart.   ...2022-07-3144 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ July 24 2022 Relaxing Meditation beside the CreekFor our meditation today, I recorded the sounds of a creek that runs through the park where I often meditate.  I think I got a good recording of the creek.  For most people, running water or wave sounds are comforting and relaxing.  I hope you enjoy this "creekside" meditation. One definite advantage of having a meditation practice you are comfortable with is that you can often find times and places to step into your "quiet space" and re-fuel or re-align.  I have found places to meditate in busy airports, the back booth in a coffee shop, or an e...2022-07-2540 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ July 17 2022 ~ Tree Meditation for Centering and RestingSeveral people that I talked with this past week were either exhausted or dealing with health conditions or both.  Often people who are caring and responsible push themselves into exhaustion.  Not a good idea because it always takes longer to restore ourselves to a rested state than it does to get enough rest every day. I know it is not always possible to get enough rest every day, but waiting for the weekend or our days "off" to recover just doesn't work well at all.  I have noticed that when I try to use weekends to "catch up"...2022-07-1730 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast July 10 2022 ~ Gratitude and Grace, Awareness and BreathDuring July, we are focusing on Gratitude and Grace.  Specifically, we are bringing more and more awareness to our Breath in order to be more present in each moment.  We are doing this very gently and with patience as we build the neurological connections that support being in the present moment. This is an ancient practice, variations are found in most spiritual and religious traditions.  It is always amazing to me how calming and refreshing it is to be with my breath, gently become more centered in the present. One reason we are focused on "Gra...2022-07-1140 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastFourth of July Meditation Podcast ~ Being Grateful for Being Here and Savoring LifeToday, July 4th is celebrated in the United States as Independence Day.   This holiday commemorates the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. It is interesting that as this nation was ratifying its origins, much of the economy was dependent on slave labor or long-term indentured servitude.  Seems like this country was founded with great aspirations and inherent contradictions.  Here in the US, we are still trying to resolve and heal this very obvious flaw in our system. When it seems like the enti...2022-07-0437 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation ~ If Everyone is talking and no one is listening, how can we ever solve our differences ?Sometimes it is almost unbelievable how much difficulty and distress Humans can cause.  Obviously, humans are very creative and very determined to be right, often at any cost to ourselves or to others. As I look at all the distress around this World, I think we have lost the fine art of listening, as well as the very useful art of conversation. In my own experience, I have "learned to listen" as a result of or because of my meditation practices.  And, just as important, I have always loved being in Nature and being with Ho...2022-06-2629 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSummer Solstice Meditation for June 21 2022Happy Summer Solstice 2022 !!! The premise underlying many of my podcasts and classes is this ... "If you want to understand the Creator, study Creation !!!" This is a very ancient and wise statement that has been around for centuries.  This obvious statement has also helped me stay on track on my spiritual path as well.  And, it definitely applies to all the equinoxes and solstices. Hope you enjoy this podcast all about the Solstice and the Planetary Array and the increased Solar Flares. Have a Wonderful Summer Solstice. And, Re...2022-06-2140 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for Father’s Day ~ June 19 2022Happy Father's Day to all the Dads in the World, including all the people, women and men, who are great Fathers for children who are not always direct family.  I have several people in my life who have been "great dads" to me.  The Universe does provide !!! This is a very busy week with the Summer Solstice on Tuesday and a spectacular array of planets that can be seen just before Sunrise all week.  We will not have this same specular alignment again until 2040.   Check the National Geographic website or EarthSky for more information. Monday eveni...2022-06-1935 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ June 12 2022 The Ongoing Benefits of Rest and Play !!!Last week I took my own advice!  I rested and I relaxed by being Creative!  I did some drawing, some writing, and some fun reading.!  I also took a few relaxed walks.  I had a lovely and restorative week!  And, I can highly recommend that to you, especially if you are exhausted, stressed out, or just plain tired. Wishing a Wonderful and Creative Week for You.   Thank You for all the Good you do in this world every day. And, Remember to Breathe, Mary Christopher 2022-06-1233 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for June 5 2022 ~ The Fine Art of Resting or ”Just Doing Nothing”Do you remember how to rest?  Like really kicking back, letting go of all the to-do's, and just resting?  Do you know "to do nothing" and be okay with it? Doing nothing and just resting can be very difficult to do, especially when it seems the whole world is in turmoil. Being able to do nothing is actually a fine art that could be carefully cultivated for the sake of our sanity. Being able to "do nothing" and be at peace with it is actually a kind of spiritual practice that ca...2022-06-0637 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ May 29 2022 Special Tree Meditation for Healing and StabilityWell, the "Winds of Change" are certainly blowing throughout the world.  We are living with almost constant upheaval and uncertainty, grief, and tragedy, as well as "wars and rumors of wars". What can we do to survive this onslaught of very difficult news and events? First of all, we need to get better and better at taking good care of ourselves so we are part of the solution, not part of the problem. I know from personal experience that having specific spiritual practices helps me get through the day in many ways. 2022-05-2936 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Podcast for Being Better and Feeling Any Kind of Grief ...Dear Ones, this is a very difficult day for many of us following the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.  Our Hearts and our Prayers surround the Children, the Families, the Teachers, the Police and EMS who responded, and the entire grieving community of Uvalde.   This is the kind of tragedy that leaves us heartbroken, bewildered, and wondering what we can do to prevent another outburst of insanity in our country.    In this podcast, I am doing a breathing practice for being okay with grief and some suggestions for ways we can respond to this new tragedy in our country.   Remember, light...2022-05-2523 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for May 22 2022 ~ What Are the Basic Benefits of Meditation?Most of us assume there are definite benefits from having a regular meditation practice.  Some benefits are obvious.  Some are cumulative over time.  Other benefits can be detected or identified using technology such as MRIs or EEGs. In this podcast, I go over some of the benefits that I have discovered from meditating on a regular basis. What benefits have you discovered from your meditation practice? Let me know ... Have a Wonderful Week.  Thank You for listening! Take really good care of yourself, and Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2022-05-2238 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Podcast ~ May 15-16 2022Whew !!!  What a Week !!!  So, much going on in our world right now, polarizing politics, Russian Insanity, wild weather, and Covid still causing deaths.  Add to that a Full Moon Total Eclipse in Taurus and Scorpio and we have a very interesting weekend. Because of this Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday may feel energetically and emotionally more intense than a regular Full Moon. So, this is a good weekend for resting, relaxing, and being in Nature.  The electromagnetic field of the Earth as well as Nature and all the elements can usua...2022-05-1540 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastHappy Mother’s Day and Sunday Meditation Podcast ~ May 8 2022Happy Mother's Day to all the Wonderful Women and Men in our lives who have loved us, prayed for us, cooked for us, and looked after us in so many ways. We are deeply grateful for all these people, some who have gone on and some who are with us. Have a Wonderful Week and take really good care of yourself. As you breathe in, remember to absorb the Light, Life, and Love that infuses Creation ~ Mary Christopher 2022-05-0836 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~May 1 2022 ~ New Moon and Solar Eclipse to start the week.At 4:28 EDT on Saturday, April 30, we began a new Lunar Month with a New Moon and a Partial Solar Eclipse !!!  Very exciting and good timing for setting up new habits or patterns in your life.  The first 2 weeks of a new lunar cycle are great for this.   Whether you live in the Northern Hemisphere or the Southern Hemisphere, this can be a great time to be outside in the "Real World".  During Spring and Fall, the temperatures are usually moderate so we can spend more time in Nature and realign with the cycles of Creation.  Consciously being in Nat...2022-05-0138 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Friday Podcast for the New Moon Solar Eclipse happening on Saturday April 30 2022I decided to do this podcast for a couple of reasons.  I have been checking in with different friends over the last few days and everyone has commented on the shift in energy they were feeling.  When we have a New Moon with a Solar Eclipse it amplifies the effect of the New Moon.  And, we have a very interesting lineup of planets in Pisces. We do not always have a Solar Eclipse with each New Moon.  And, we don't have a Lunar Eclipse with every Full Moon.  So, when we do have an eclipse it is signi...2022-04-3020 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ Special Tree Meditation ~ April 24 2022In my Earth Day Podcast, I suggested it might be a good idea if we celebrated every day as Earth Day.  This is a good idea because we are completely dependent on this amazing Earth for our survival as Human Beings.   The truth is that we go through most of our lives, being busy and at the same time being unaware of our Wonderful Earth. The meditation for today is a "Tree Meditation" that I have done before.  Most recently, I did this one for a group of Sufis who meet online for meditation practice.  Every...2022-04-2435 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ April 17 2022 for Easter, Passover Weekend and the middle of RamadanIn addition to Easter, Passover, and Ramadan, this is also a Full Moon weekend.  Very Busy long weekend with High Energy and so many people all around the world in prayer, following their religious and spiritual practices. I went to bed early last night, just to give my body time to rest and relax and maybe keep up with all this energy.  I have also found that I need more rest with all the unrest and uncertainty in the world. I wish I had a magic wand that I could wave around and calm things do...2022-04-1739 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ April 10 2022 A Beautiful Walk in the ParkWe had some chilly weather last week as well as high winds and rain.  The rain helped wash most of the Pollen out of the air which was a blessing for many people, including me. The park was crowded today.  Almost everywhere I stopped to record, people would show up.  And, when I sat down to do our meditation, an entire family walked up and stood within 10 feet.  They stood there like they were waiting for something to happen.  I had to move 3 times as I was starting our meditation.  Very interesting ... Regardless of having to mov...2022-04-1141 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpring Has Arrived in the South with Plenty of PollenSpring in the Southern United States is Amazing !!!  So many flowers and bushes and trees are in bloom with a great variety of colors.  And, as you probably know, pollen is another very necessary product of Spring, along with allergic reactions to those tiny particles floating in the breeze. I had adapted to the varieties of pollen in Texas but had completely forgotten about the many different kinds of pollen in Georgia.  Now I am reminded and busy doing my research for natural allergy remedies. You may be able to tell on this recording that I a...2022-04-0334 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ March 27 2022 Taking time to nurture ourselves in the Blessings of Nature ...During extremely difficult times in our lives, whether it be from wars, rumors of wars, massive destruction due to weather, social disruption, or unexpected personal difficulties, we are often deeply challenged to find ways to restore peace and calm within ourselves. I have found that I can usually take refuge in Nature, in the Beauty and Coherence of Creation to restore peace and calm within myself. I also use Gratitude to restore my sense of Being Blessed and  Being Grateful to be alive. And, I remind myself that Every Day is an Amazing O...2022-03-2834 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Weekend Podcast ~ How to Take Care of Ourselves and Help Our World thru this Global Crisis ... As I am sure you are aware, this is a very difficult and challenging time for practically Everyone on our planet.  We are facing another turning point in our evolution as well the survival of our Beautiful Planet.   Will we choose to shut down our hearts and use our intelligence and resources for destruction?  Or, will we find ways to stay Heartful and Centered, as we find ways to build a World that Works for Everyone. We know there is enough goodness, intelligence, and creativity in all of us to do this.  And, we have enoug...2022-03-2048 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for March 13 2022 ~ Special Water Meditation and Celtic Blessing of the Guardian AngelDue to all the upheaval and tension in the world last week, we did a special water and rock meditation or visualization for class.  Everyone really liked it, so I used it for this podcast. I have also included one of my favorite Celtic Blessings, "Blessing of the Guardian Angel".  I copied it below. I hope you will find both the meditation and the Blessing helpful. Take really good care of yourself and Remember to Breathe ~  Much Love and Many Blessings, Mary Christopher   Blessing of the Guardian Ange...2022-03-1432 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ March 6 2022 Walk in the Park and Mini-Vacation to buy local honey !!!Today I gave myself a mini-vacation.  I drove out to the country north and east of Atlanta to buy some local honey.  It was a beautiful day and I had a lovely visit with the family who keeps more than 125 hives and produces many pounds of Raw Honey every year.  I had a great time !!! On my way back home, I stopped in a local park and recorded this podcast with a walking meditation. Big News !!!  This podcast has been downloaded more than 5025 !!! Thank You for listening and Thank You for your support.  You a...2022-03-0722 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast February 27 2022 Meditation for Compassion and HealingThis week I have been following the news of Putin's aggression and invasion of Ukraine.  As far as I am concerned, this is tragic for any number of reasons.  It is tragic for Everyone involved regardless of which "side" they are on.  And, it is tragic for the entire World because we need to be taking much better care of this Beautiful Little Planet that we call home instead of blowing up parts of it !!! War, any war, is stupid and wasteful.  Putin's aggression is tragic and wasteful.  So, as Mystics, LightBearers, and LightWorkers what do we do? ...2022-02-2744 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for February 20 2022 ~ How the Forests and Nature can help Humans be mroe calm.As the Northern Hemisphere moves closer to Spring and the Southern Hemisphere toward Fall, temperatures are moderating.  We may have more opportunities to be comfortable being outside.  As you probably know, if you have listened to any of my podcasts, I much prefer being outside and meditating outside whenever possible. There are many reasons for this.  One is that Nature, in general, is more coherent and more peaceful than most enclosed spaces inhabited by humans.  We tend to think a lot and we can have a wide range of emotions.  Basically, Trees and Plants and Animals don't think...2022-02-2042 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ February 13 2022 Being in Beijing and Being CompassionateAs I have been watching the Beijing Olympics 2022, I am reminded of being in Beijing in 1995 for the United Nations Conference on the Status of Women.  When we arrived at the Conference, one of the first groups we met were lovely ladies from Japan who folded origami Peace Crans and gave them away.  Their intention was to promote Glocal Peace.   The other experience I have always remembered was our visit to a Taoist Temple in a Beijing neighborhood.  After we toured this lovely little temple, we asked if they had a statue of Kwan Yin.  At first, the me...2022-02-1437 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ February 6 2020 Remembering Family and Friends who have passed on ...On Saturday I drove to North Georgia for a memorial for an old friend of many years who had passed on in December.  It was a small gathering, mostly family who had come together in a lovely valley with a creek running through it. We took time to remember funny and wonderful things about Linda and how we remembered her.  Sometimes it is difficult or we are hesitant to remember special people who have gone on because we miss them.  And, I have found that the Love and Affection we shared is always present in my heart eve...2022-02-0630 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ January 30 2022 Acknowledging all the Wonderful People doing their best everyday !!!During this past week, many of us have been aware of the passing of Thich Nhat Hanh and also aware of the contributions he made through his teaching, his books, and his efforts for world peace.  "Thay" was a very public figure so we know something about his gifts and contributions to the World. There are also 100s and 1000s of amazing people all around the world, doing their best to make this World a better place for Everyone every day.  Because of Thay's deep compassion, I am sure he was aware of all the people, often wi...2022-01-3028 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast ~ January 15 2022 Remembering how to be more Playful and CreativeWhy would we want to be more Playful and Creative?  Or, why would we want to be a little less serious and stressed? Good Questions ... One very good reason is that when we are more creative and playful, we are usually more relaxed and at ease with ourselves.  This means our digestion is better.  And that we are sleeping better and our Immune System is working more effectively !!! Another good reason for being more playful and creative is that our problem-solving abilities are enhanced.  That is definitely good news for most of us who...2022-01-1735 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for January 9 2022 ~ Remembering To Be More Playful This WeekThis morning as I was waking up, I realized that I have been Very Serious and a bit of a Workaholic for the past few weeks.  So, I decided that I would do my best to be more Play-full this week.  Studies have shown that we are often more productive, more creative, and also more present when we are in a playful mode.  I know this is true for me and I often forget.  So, I am doing my best to be more playful, less serious, and generally have more fun this week. How does this...2022-01-0934 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for Januray 2 2022 ~ Welcoming 2022 with a Walking Meditation in the ParkHappy New Year and Happy New Moon !!!  We have emerged from 2021 and here we are on Sunday, January 2, 2022, walking in the park on a cool and cloudy, rainy day.  The air is fresh, lots of brand new Oxygen, and a new start on a New Year.  It definitely, feels good !!! I decided to do a walking meditation today because it felt so good to be moving and breathing.  I did this moving meditation beside the stream that was up and flowing from the rain we had last night.  You may be able to hear the stream as it tu...2022-01-0333 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for December 25 2021 ~ Being a Human Being is often a Big Challenge !!!If you are celebrating Christmas, I trust you had a Wonderful Day whether you were with family and friends or celebrating with others from a distance. Hopefully, there was not as much isolation and loneliness for people this year as there was last year !!! I would love to know how you are doing with all our challenges here on Earth.  And, how your holidays have been.  I have included a link to my Facebook page.  Please post and let me know you are commenting as one of my podcast listeners !!! https://www.facebook.com...2021-12-2731 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast December 19 2021 ~ Light a Candle for the WorldSometimes I feel very frustrated with all the turmoil and drama and distress in the World.  And, I need something very specific to do that might be helpful and comforting. One small action I have discovered, again,  is to Light a Candle for the World. Obviously, a candle flame brings a Radiant Light and a candle flame brings Warmth.  The radiance from the candle and the warmth are comforting and reassuring.  And, we are bringing more Light into the World! Try Lighting a Candle for the World during this week and see how it w...2021-12-2030 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastMonday Meditation for December 13 2021 ~Taking a Sunshine BreakThese 3 Gifts from Nature are so important for our health and well-being! In order for Human Beings to be Healthy, Happy, and Thriving, we need Fresh Oxygen, Clean Water, and Sunshine.  Join me in this podcast for a Sunshine Break and for Fresh Oxygen if you have a Tree nearby. Have a Wonderful Week, and Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-12-1332 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation ~ December 5 2021 A Measure of Compassion for Ourselves and Others Works WellDuring the Holidays, there seems to be more baking going on.  I thought it might be helpful to add one measure of Compassion to each recipe, just to leaven and sweeten the baking a bit more. We have been working with Compassion for some time in Meditation Class and we find having Compassion for ourselves and others can be very healing.  Try a measure or two of Compassion, beginning with yourself, this week, and see how it works for you ... ? Have a lovely week.  Be Safe, Be Happy, Stay Healthy and Remember to Bre...2021-12-0632 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for November 28 2021We had a lovely Thanksgiving Celebration with Family and Wonderful Friends.  This year especially, we have a great deal to be thankful for compared to last Thanksgiving when the Covid pandemic was still going strong and many people were isolated from family and friends.  Thank Goodness and Silicon Valley for internet connections and "smart phones" !!! I trust you had much to be grateful for this past week whether you were celebrating Thanksgiving officially or not.  Remember that Gratitude can function as a "neurological anchor" and actually train our brain to find more to be grateful for in our...2021-11-2834 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastThanksgiving Day Podcast ~ Thursday November 25 2021Wherever You are whatever You are doing today, may You be Happy, may You be Safe, and may You be Healthy !!! I deeply appreciate your ongoing support and encouragement for my podcast. Thank You for all you do to make Our World a better place. And, remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-11-2513 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for November 21 2021 ~ Using Gratitude and Intuition to Move thru the HolidaysHere we go ... off into the Holidays !!! During November in Meditation Class, we continued to discuss Synchronicity, Gratitude, and Intuition.  We had a great time sharing our experiences and doing our Meditations. Beginning Wednesday, December 1, we will be doing our Annual ArchAngel Meditations for 4 weeks.  We always have a wonderful time with these classes, especially during the Holidays. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all share a belief in Angels, as do many people who do not participate in any particular religion.  So, followers of many faiths or no particular faith can certainly agree about the...2021-11-2235 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Podcast for November 14 2021 ~ Beautiful Sunny Day for Meditating OutsideDuring class this past week, we continued to discuss Synchronicities and Gratitude while paying some attention to the way that our Intuition helps us notice Synchronicities.  We are having some really good discussions. On Thursday, the 18th, the Leonid Meteor Showers peak.  And, we have the Full Moon with a Partial Eclipse on Friday, the 19th.  We may be able to see some of this Eclipse in North America !!! Interesting week in the Heavens ... Trust you are feeling good about your spiritual practices and doing something creative, delightful, or just for fun during the...2021-11-1533 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for November 7 2021 ~ Gorgeous Sunny Day MeditationWelcome to a new week !!!  I hope you had a restful and/or productive weekend. We had a delightful and restful weekend.  Saturday evening we watched an amazing documentary, Kiss the Ground.  It is about Regenerative Agriculture and Aving Our Soil, narrated by Woody Harrelson.  Excellent information about how we can improve the condition of our soil, and remove more excess carbon from the atmosphere while feeding more people !!!  Click here to watch Kiss the Ground    I highly recommend watching this ... renewed my hope for the future of our Beautiful Green planet. Have a...2021-11-1531 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for November 1 2021Welcome to a new week !!!  I hope you had a restful and/or productive weekend. We had a delightful and restful weekend.  Saturday evening we watched a great documentary, Kiss the Ground.  It is about Regenerative Agriculture and Soil.  It is narrated by Woody Harrelson.  Very information about the condition of our soil, climate changes, and removing more of the excess carbon from the atmosphere.  Here is the link click here to watch Kiss the Ground ...    I highly recommend watching this ... renewed my hope for the future of our Beautiful Green planet. In med...2021-11-0731 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for October 31 2021 ~ Happy All Hallows EveTrust you are having a restful weekend.  We are having cooler weather with the Sun peeking out from the clouds now and then.  Hopefully, you are safe and healthy and having good weather. As we go into November, we continue to work with Synchronicity and practice Gratitude.  During class this week we shared funny or happy stories about someone we love and care about who has passed on.  We heard wonderful stories from everyone and finished class with one of our "heartwarming" meditations. Have a Wonderful Week.  Take really good care of yourself. And R...2021-10-3132 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation for October 24 2021 ~ Lovely day in the park, practicing GratitudeSuch a lovely Sunday, following a very busy week.  I actually fell asleep under one of the many trees in the park.  Fortunately, it is a very safe place with lots of family with children, playing and having a great time.  I fell asleep on the ground with my head carefully propped up on my walking shoes !!! Deeply gratefully for all my wonderful family and friends, wonderful trees, a beautiful butterfly, and my great new socks that fit !!! Have a Wonderful Week and take very good care of yourself. And, Remember to Breathe ~ Mar...2021-10-2530 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation in the Park ~ Dealing with a Busy Brain and Meditation by the StreamAnother lovely day here in Georgia. We had more Sunshine and cooler temperatures.  I hope the weather has been kind and gentle for you as well. This week I have been working on classes and workshops for the rest of 2021.  I had planned to do an in-person workshop in Austin this month.  But, all of Travis County was at Stage 5 Alert for Covid Infections, so I decided not to travel. I will be doing a Busy Brain workshop online in November and will post more information about that very soon. Have a lovely wee...2021-10-1832 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation September 26 2021 Grounding with Gratitude and Appreciation for ”who we are”.Lovely fall day here in Georgia with Sunshine and soft breezes. This morning, as I was doing my Gratitude practice, I was aware of how "grounding" I was feeling!  I had not noticed that specific result before.  That sense of being more grounded felt really good. Remember, during this week, to appreciate something about yourself.  Remember that awake or asleep as Human Beings, we are vulnerable.  And, we often feel vulnerable whether we recognize that feeling or not.  Appreciating our tremendous resilience and creativity can help. Have a lovely week and take really good...2021-09-2633 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation September 19 2021 ”Weathering the Ups and Downs of Life”Taking my own advice, always an interesting thing to do, we went to the Gwinnett County Fair near Atlanta, Georgia this Saturday.  As you may know, I grew up with farmers and ranchers, horses and cattle, and farming.  So, we went to the Fair to find some farmers and ranchers.  We had lovely conversations with the folks from TNT Simmental Farms, Ally Bees Farm, and the Thousand Hills Organic Cattle Ranch.  Always good to know where our food actually comes from ... !!! Trust you are doing well and taking good care of yourself. Have a wonderful week...2021-09-2031 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation September 12 2021 ~ How are we dealing with the ”troubles of the world” ?In meditation class, we usually do a "check-in" to let each other know how we are doing.  For more than a year we have been discussing ways we can take better care of ourselves during this global pandemic and upheaval. Obviously, we rely strongly on our Spiritual Practices and the strength of our meditation group.  We have found our Spiritual Practices give us strength and resilience.  Our group provides a Spiritual Community that is supportive and understanding.  And, we keep adding tools and methods to our practices. In this podcast, as in previous ones, I have...2021-09-1238 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation ~ September 5 2021Good News ... !!!  Our Sunday podcast is back !!! In July I moved from central Texas, near Austin to Atlanta, Georgia to be closer to my Family ... !!! I have forgotten how exhausting and chaotic and demanding moving can be, especially moving halfway across the country. Whew ... !!!  I am more or less settled and getting rested.  So, we are back on track with the Sunday Meditation series. Trust you are doing well and taking really good care of yourself. Have a Wonderful Week and do Remember to Breathe ~ All the Bes...2021-09-0525 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation for Coping with Global Suffering and UnrestThis week during Meditation Class we talked about the amount of suffering around the World.  When there is a high level of unrest and suffering, we are all affected whether we know it or not.  This high level can interfere with our quality of sleep or we may feel anxious for no apparent reason. Meditation can definitely help ease our anxiety and make it easier for us to fall asleep.  This is especially true if we practice any kind of meditation consistently.  Our consistent practice has a cumulative result, just like learning or improving any kind of skil...2021-05-2335 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Sunday Gratitude Meditation for Mother's DayRemembering how effective and simple it is to practice being grateful. Most of us have so much to be grateful for, even if we are stressed or dealing with difficult people or situations.   Having gratitude or appreciation can shift our perspective and raise our consciousness. Have a Wonderful Week. Thank You for tuning in and downloading my podcasts ~ Mary Christopher 2021-05-1036 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastCeltic Blessing for Bedtime ~ Blessing of the Guardian Angel May 8 2021This is one of my favorite Celtic Blessings that I use when I am going to sleep. It is not very long and it is very lyrical, making it easy to remember. Sweet Dreams, wherever you are ~ Mary Christopher 2021-05-1010 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastEarly Morning Blessing of the Day ~ Saturday May 8 2021This particular Celtic Blessing is one I like to use when I first get up in the morning, especially if I can be outside.  There are many wonderful morning blessings and this is one of my favorites. Have a Beautiful Day and Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-05-0809 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation ~ Benefits of Meditation April 18 2021During the week I have been thinking about "consistency in our spiritual practice" and how beneficial it is.  We know with any skill, consistency with practice is usually necessary.  Skills can include almost anything such as learning to cook a new recipe, learning how to play golf or tennis, improve our yoga postures, or be better at being quiet. The reason "practice" improves performance is due to the flexibility and adaptability of our neurons.  When we "practice" anything, we are creating new connections in our "mainframe" computing center, our brain. Over time, we are able to relax and...2021-04-1833 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday "Back to Nature" MeditationBeautiful weather today !!!  The Bluebonnets are blooming and there are Butterflies all over.  So Wonderful ... !!! This week in Meditation Class, we have been discussing "coherence and resonance" specifically in relation to our emotions.  And, our meditations have been focused on being more centered and coherent. Have a Wonderful Week.  Take very good care of yourself. And remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-04-1224 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastContemplation and Thoughts for Holy Week April 1 2021Just a few thoughts about how we could think about Holy Week and Easter from a mystical point of view. Have a Blessed Week ... And, Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-04-0224 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation Remembering to Listen for Guidance March 21 2021Happy Spring Everyone in the Northern Hemisphere !!!  And, Happy Fall to Everyone in the Southern Hemisphere !!! We are having beautiful weather here in Central Texas and loving every minute.  Wherever you are on the Planet I hope you are having a lovely day. One of the topics that comes up in Meditation Class is related to Inner Guidance.  For some people, this could be Intuition.  For others, it might be a "gut feeling" or a heartful sense of what to say or do. Inner Guidance is amazingly useful, especially when we have upheaval and...2021-03-2133 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation March 14 2021 Remembering to Cherish LifeWe have another beautiful warm day to enjoy !!! As a result of the stress and uncertainty of the Big Freeze in Texas and other states last month, we are more aware of how blessed we are in so many ways. And, we are also aware of how Precious Life is.  So, we are continuing our spiritual practice of being more aware of the people and the experiences that are precious to us. As a result, we are finding that our lives are a bit sweeter and have more meaning.  We are also discovering, on...2021-03-1531 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation Remembering to Cherish Life March 7 2021Here in central Texas, we are still recovering from the Big Freeze.  We are dealing with property damage and residual stress from that week, along with the virus situation. We talked about how scary that week was and how uncertain it felt. We decided that during March we would be aware of how precious Life is.  And, we would do our best to Cherish any wonderful moments of Beauty and Joy and Happiness and Fun.  During March we will be building our reserves of Gratitude and improving our ability to focus on what really matters to...2021-03-0727 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastWalking with Grief ~ Finding our way through personal and global loss and sorrowAs so many people and families are missing and grieving for lost family members and friends due to the Covid virus, we need ways to deal with the intense emotions of loss. One of my favorite writings is from the Celtic Daily Prayer book, prayers and readings from the Northumbria Community.  It is called "Walking with Grief". I hope it will be helpful and comforting now and later as we all deal with the effects of this virus and other tragedies. Many Blessings to You and to you Family ~ Mary Christopher 2021-03-0214 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime Chapter 9 The Sword in the Stone by T. H. WhiteIn this chapter, Arthur is doing his best to talk Merlyn into sending Kay with him on his next adventure. Merlyn becomes very vexed before it is sorted out. This is a lively prelude to their next amazing adventure. Happy Listening ~ Mary Christopher 2021-03-0125 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation February28 2021 Warming Up ...We are warming up here in Texas and across this part of the US.  Last week was a relief from freezing temperatures and frozen streets.  Everyone that I talked with last week was so relieved to be able to drive, buy groceries, and have fresh water coming through the faucet !!! I was able to do our meditation for today outside !!!  The temperature was comfortable, the birds were singing and the neighborhood was quiet. I hope you benefit from today's meditation and have a wonderful week. Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-02-2830 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Meditation February 21 2021 Gratitude and BlessingsI definitely feel very Blessed to have come thru the past week with little damage to the house or the water system.  We were very fortunate !!!  We were cold, but not freezing in the house.  We did have power and water. So many people in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana have had a very difficult time.  A close friend in Arkansas told me today that their temperatures went down to 20 degrees below with 10 inches of Snow !!!  I can't even begin to imagine that.  We would be buried for another week! Have a lovely week and take v...2021-02-2231 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastUpdate ~ from the Big Freeze to the Big ThawTexas, parts of Oklahoma and Louisiana are emerging from a week of freezing temperatures, snow, sleet, and freezing rain.  Whew ... !!! Full report in the podcast. I hope wherever you are the weather has been moderate this week and you are doing well. Thank You for all your prayers and good wishes. When we help and support each other, everything seems to work much better for Everyone. Mary Christopher 2021-02-2116 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation Valentine's Day February 14 2021How are you today ?  Here in Central Texas we are still in the midst of a Winter Storm and it is very Cold here. I have been keeping the bird feeders filled and put out bread crusts for the Squirrels.  I am also pouring hot, hot water into the bird feeder so they will have some water.  However, it does freeze over fast. In this podcast, I focused on the choices we can make every day so our lives will work better.  There seem to be many things in our lives that we are not able...2021-02-1436 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Big Freeze !!! February 13 2021The Big Freeze !!! Temperatures here in Central Texas and all points North are below freezing and have been since Thursday.  These very cold weather conditions are expected to continue thru Tuesday or Wednesday.  Yikes ... !!! In meditation class this week we are focusing on "finding the Miracles in our lives".  We are getting Better and Better at noticing "Miracles".  This is an excellent spiritual exercise for re-training our attention and our neurons to a different perspective.  We are having a good time with this exercise. I trust you are doing well and keeping healthy. 2021-02-1336 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation January 31 2021We had a few technical problems, but those are fixed now. I have included a special "belly breathing" exercise in this recording.  I noticed that wearing a mask while I am doing errands is changing the way I breathe.  So, I have included this breathing exercise to help with that. Trust your week is going well. Have a Great Day ... and remember to Breathe Deeply, outside whenever possible. Thanks for listening ~ Mary Christopher 2021-02-0232 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation Quite an Amazing Week January 24 2021This has been a big week here in the United States. And a very difficult week for the World due to the increase in new cases and deaths with the spread of the Corona Virus. In regard to all these changes, we know that Human Beings have difficulty with Rapid Change and holding any kind of Paradox.  Both Rapid Change and dramatic cultural Paradox are very challenging for us.  Rember that a Paradox is 2 opposite or apparently opposite points of view.  Some people deal with Paradox by choosing one over the other, as an...2021-01-2432 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime 2nd half of Chapter 8 The Sword in the Stone January 23 2021This is the 2nd half of Chapter 8 from The Sword in the Stone by T. H. White. In this chapter, the young Arthur is changed into a Merlin and is left in the mews with the other hunting Hawks that belong to Sir Ector. Arthur, also known at the Wart, spends a very spine-tingling night with the other hawks and learns a great deal about them. Happy Listening ~ Mary Christopher 2021-01-2427 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone by T. H. White First Part of Chapter 8Here is the First Part of Chapter 8 which is another  loooong chapter. In this chapter, the Wart who is young King Arthur visits the raptors who live in the mews and are used for hunting. I will finish this chapter this week. Happy Listening ~ Mary Christopher 2021-01-1916 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation January 17 2021How are you doing today? These first weeks of January have been discouraging and hopeful, all at the same time.  Discouraging because of the number of deaths worldwide due to the virus.  And, discouraging due to the violence here in the United States and other parts of the World These weeks have also been hopeful because we now have several "good" vaccines that are being distributed around the World.  And, I am always hopeful because of the hundreds and thousands of tremendously good people who are doing their best to make this World a Better Pla...2021-01-1729 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation January 10 2021May you walk in Beauty wherever you go, whatever you do ... ~ Mary Christopher 2021-01-1021 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSpecial Podcast and Meditation for a Challenging and Difficult Day Wednesday 01/06/2021Today we heard or watched on the news and throughout the media that the Capital of the United States was mobbed and briefly taken over by supporters of Donald Trump. It is a tragic and very challenging time for all of us because it demonstrates how polarized and desperate many people are.  The fear and uncertainty caused by the pandemic are certainly feeding into the turmoil. We also know that good people around the world are working to bring peace and calm wherever and however possible This meditation is for centering and calming s...2021-01-0736 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone by Tl H. White completing Chapter 7Here is the last half of Chapter 7.  Some chapters are short and others are very long.  So, I am dividing the longer ones into 2 parts so they won't be so long to listen to. Due to a change in my schedule, I will be reading and recording on Monday evenings. Have a Wonderful Week ~ Mary Christopher 2021-01-0536 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation January 3 2021Beautiful Morning here, although a little too cold to be outside.  So, I am recording inside while I am looking outside at the trees and the birds and the squirrels running through the trees. This morning for our meditation we are focusing on "Being Our Own Best Friend".   Hope you enjoy this. Have a Wonderful Week and take really good care of yourself. Thanks for Listening and Remember to Breathe ~ Mary Christopher 2021-01-0323 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastNew Year's Thoughts and Meditation Friday January 1 2021Welcome to 2021 ... !!!  I am happy to be here. I hope you are safe, and happy, and doing well wherever you are. Today we are doing a Gratitude Meditation to help us be aware of all our blessings and gifts. Tomorrow morning at 10:30 am Central Standard Time (US), we are doing a special Healing and Blessing Meditation to start the New Year off on a good note.  If you would like to join in, send an email to me here mary@justbeingmindful.com I will send a link to you for our se...2021-01-0222 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone Chapter 6 and 1/2 of 7 by T. H. WhiteI read all of Chapter 6 and one-half of Chapter 7 because the chapters are of unequal length.  Some are very short and others go on and on. In these chapters, Arthur, the Wart, learns more about being a Knight !!! Happy New Year  ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-2830 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation December 27 2020As you are aware this has been a difficult year and a very different holiday season for so many people.   We get through these difficult times by being kind and generous, thoughtful, and compassionate with ourselves.  This helps us to treat others with the same kindness and generosity. Take really good care of yourself and have a Good New Year, Thank YOu for listening ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-2728 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone Chapter 5 by T. H. WhiteIn Chapter 5, Arthur, also known as the Wart, has his first adventure with Merlyn the Magician, his new tutor. I trust you are enjoying hearing about Arthur's adventures. Thanks for listening ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-2147 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation December 20 2020Welcome to a new week.  I trust that everything is going well for you. This week we celebrate Christmas.  Many of us will not be celebrating with Family or loved ones.  This is difficult. So, be sure to appreciate the Friends and Family and Pets that you have. We will get through this year by looking out for each other and sharing what we have. Mary Christopher 2020-12-2029 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone Chapter 4 December 19 2020This is Chapter 4 of The Sword and the Stone.  It is all about King Arthur's adventures as a boy when Merlyn was his tutor. I am 90% sure that we have all our technical difficulties taken care of.  So, we should be on schedule now. Remember, you are much more than you may think you are !!! Wherever you are, have a wonderful week ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-2013 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation December 13 2020We had a few technical problems getting this podcast transferred and posted. However, I think we have it sorted out now. So, here is the Sunday Morning Meditation for Sunday December 13 2020 Have a Wonderful Week ... Thanks for listening ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-1432 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime The Sword in the Stone by T. H. White December 6 2020Tonight I am reading Chapter 3 from this delightful story about King Arthur and Merlyn when Arthur was growing up and Merlyn was his tutor. I hope you enjoy hearing this story as much as I enjoy reading it. Have a Wonderful Week. All the Best, Mary Christopher 2020-12-0737 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Evening Meditation December 6 2020Sunday turned out to be over-scheduled so I wasn't able to do my regular Sunday morning recording. However, here is my Sunday Evening Meditation. Trust you and all your family and friends are healthy and managing to deal with all the ups and downs of life on Earth right now. Take really good care of yourself and have a Wonderful Week. Remember, you are smarter than you may think and more courageous than you know.  ~ Mary Christopher 2020-12-0728 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime ~ The Sword in the Stone by T. H. White November 29 2020We are beginning a new book this week, "The Sword in the Stone".  It is based on the Aurtherin Legends and is about Arthur's relationship with Merlyn as he was growing up.  I find the story to be delightful and humorous as well. I haven't read it for several years so I am looking forward to reading with you. Thanks for listening. Have a lovely week ~ Mary Christopher 2020-11-301h 04The Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation ~ Challenging Times November 29 2020Most of us are aware that we live in "Challenging Times".  No need to remind you of the Corona Virus or the Polarizing Politics in our world.  However, there is another cause of upset and distress.  It is our own emotional response to these challenges. If we have a strong negative or highly emotional response to these "challenges", then we increase our own distress.  On the other hand, If we can remember to breathe, to stay calm and centered, then we will be healthier and happier.  We will be more at Peace with ourselves and probably with other...2020-11-2932 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastThanksgiving Day ~ Gratitude and Grace November 26 2020Today is Thanksgiving in the United States. Because of the Covid Virus, many people are having to adjust and be creative with the way they celebrate this holiday. I woke up this morning feeling deeply grateful to be alive !!!  And, as usual, grateful for and delighting in the Beauty of the Day. Wherever you are I trust you are doing well and having a lovely day. Remember to Breathe and Remember to Smile, even to yourself.  It creates Endorphines ... Mary Christopher 2020-11-2717 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime Verses from The Pooh Book November 22 2020This evening I am reading verses from The Pooh Book by A. A. Milne.  I couldn't settle on a particular book to start, so I decided to read some verses instead. I hope you enjoy them.  My children certainly did. Have a Wonderful Week ~ Mary Christopher 2020-11-2332 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation November 22 2020This is the beginning of the last full week in November, as well as Thanksgiving in the US. As you may have noticed, we are still up to our eyebrows in polarizing politics in America.  One newscaster said, "the US is behaving like a 3rd world country."  I think many people will be relieved and sleep much better when everyone manages to calm down! Last week in meditation class we focused on Forgiveness and Compassion.  During Thanksgiving Week, we are focusing on Gratitude.  One benefit of having a Gratitude Practice is that it increases our capa...2020-11-2226 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastFriday Evening Walk and Breathing Exercise November 20 2020Having a lovely evening walk after a busy day and a busy week. I have been thinking about how difficult it seems to be for Human Beings to live in Peace with each other.  And, how difficult it is for us to be at Peace within and with ourselves.   So, in meditation class we have been focusing on Forgiveness and Compassion, beginning with ourselves.  I have found the more that I am able to be forgiving and compassionate with myself, I am more at peace with others.  The end result is that while I am becom...2020-11-2126 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime Pete's Dragon Sunday November 15 2020Pete's Dragon is short so I am reading the entire book this evening.  This book is a special request from someone who remembers it from growing up and wanted to hear it again. This is the official Disney version of Pete's Dragon, published in 1977. Next week we will begin another, longer book. If you have any suggestions or would like to request a special book, let me know in the comments. Have a Wonderful Week ... Happy Listening ~ Mary Christopher     2020-11-1611 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Meditation November 15 2020Another lovely Morning deep in the Heart of Texas.  I hope it is lovely and peaceful and calm wherever in the world you are. I made sure to be outside today, soaking up Sunshine and breathing lots of fresh air.  I always feel better when I have several hours outside.  And, I know that being in fresh air and Sunshine strengthens my Immune System! Remember to Breathe and Remember to Smile. Have a Wonderful Week. ~ Mary Christopher 2020-11-1633 minThe Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastStorytime King of the Wind by Marguerite Henry 2020-11-08This evening we are finishing "King of the Wind".   We find out what finally happens to Sham and Agba and Grimalkin. We also learn what happens to the colts that were sired by Sham.  Three of Sham's colts ran at Newmarket Racecourse more than 2 centuries ago. I hope you enjoyed this book.  I will start a new story next Sunday.  Not sure which one yet, so if you have any suggestions, let me know. Have a lovely week and thanks for listening.  ~ Mary Christopher 2020-11-091h 03The Mary Christopher PodcastThe Mary Christopher PodcastSunday Morning Walking Meditation November 8 2020Another lovely day here with blue skies, puffy white clouds, and soft breezes. Here in the United States, we seem to have survived Election Week.  I am sure there will be plenty of political posturing and a range of amazing rhetoric in the days ahead.  And, I am confident we will get through that as well. For the first part of our Sunday morning meditation, I did a "walking meditation" and included several suggestions about reaching out to Friends and Family who may be upset with the election returns. Trust you and all yo...2020-11-0829 min