Shows
Mel Finds JoyThe Joy of CommunityIn this episode, I reflect on the incredible joy I’ve found in the communities I’ve joined this year. Inspired by the quote, “Communities begin with one person and an invitation to connect,” I’ll explore how these spaces—both in person and online—have brought joy to my life. I’ll also share how building and nurturing these connections has helped me feel supported and inspired, and why community can be a powerful antidote to loneliness or perfectionism. Tune in to hear more about how you, too, can find or create your own spaces of connection and...2024-12-1604 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of SwimmingThis year, I finally learned how to swim—a goal that had been on my list for ages. Overcoming my fears and stepping into the pool has been empowering, and each swim fills me with pride. Swimming has become my meditative ritual, a space where I focus solely on breathing, moving, and staying present, leaving worries and anxieties behind.In this episode, I’ll talk about the surprising joy I’ve found in swimming, the benefits it brings to both body and mind, and how my December swimming challenge has deepened my love for it. Whether you’re...2024-12-0906 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Feeling CozyIn this episode, I reflect on the joy of embracing the cozy season.With the clocks changing and the evenings growing longer here in the UK, I’ve been leaning into all things cozy—long baths, soft candlelight, a good book, my hot water bottle, and, of course, my favourite pink fluffy socks.Instead of dreading the early darkness, I’m flipping the narrative and using it as an opportunity to slow down, unwind, and create a sense of warmth and comfort.Join me as I share how embracing coziness can tr...2024-12-0203 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Singing Your Heart Out at a ConcertIn this episode, I’m diving into the pure joy of live music. The unmatched feeling of seeing your favourite artist live—singing along to every word and feeling the electricity of the crowd. I recently went to see Rachel Chinouriri in London, and it reminded me why I love live music so much. There’s something special about the way concerts bring people together. That connection, catharsis and sense of belonging - it’s what sociologist Emile Durkheim calls ‘collective effervescence’. Which you experience even if you go to a concert solo (which I actually love doing!). Rachel...2024-11-2504 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of FireworksIn this episode I talk about the simple joy of a good fireworks display. Recently, it was Guy Fawkes night here in the UK and I attended the Fireworks Festival at Alexandra Palace here in London. The colours, the sounds, and that moment when the sky lights up - it was pure magic. I’ll share a bit about the night, why I think fireworks bring us so much joy, and why they’re worth bundling up for on a cold November evening.Alexandra Palace Fireworks: https://fireworks.london/ Sign up for my bi-week...2024-11-1804 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Baking (ft The World's Best Chocolate Chip Cookies)In this episode, I explore the simple joy of baking and share my recent adventure of trying out what’s been dubbed ‘the world’s best chocolate chip cookies.’ Spoiler alert: they turned out pretty well! I’ll talk about how baking, even as an amateur, can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost confidence. You don’t need to be the next Mary Berry to experience the joy—just roll up your sleeves and give it a go!World’s Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-M3JN_7LGU Sign up for...2024-10-2104 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Reading (ft Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell)In this episode, I celebrate the pure joy of getting lost in a good book—the kind that keeps you up until the early hours of the morning. Recently, I experienced this with Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell, a book that I loved so much I just couldn’t put it down. I’ll share my thoughts on the book and also dive into the benefits of reading for mental health and relaxation. Sign up to the BookBub Ebook Bargains Newsletter: https://www.bookbub.com/ebook-dealsRead Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell: https://www.ama...2024-10-1404 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Starting AgainIn this episode, I explore the joy of returning to a hobby, routine, or practice that once brought you happiness. This autumn, I found myself picking up something I had set aside for a while. Instead of feeling frustrated or ashamed for letting it slip, I chose to embrace the joy of starting again—and it’s been a rewarding experience. I’ll share my personal story of restarting this routine and how leaning into the process with kindness has brought me a deep sense of pride. I invite you to reflect: is there something in your life that once b...2024-10-0704 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of GivingIn this episode, I dive into the simple yet profound joy of giving. From activating the parts of our brain linked to pleasure, trust, and connection to experiencing what psychologists call the “warm glow effect”—the happiness we feel when giving to others. Whether it’s picking out a thoughtful gift or writing a heartfelt note, I’ve found immense happiness in the act of giving. I’ll discuss how giving activates feelings of connection and trust in our brains and and also brings a deep sense of fulfilment. I’ll also share some personal stories about how “I saw this and thought...2024-09-3005 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of ImperfectionIn this episode, I reflect on a recent painting workshop in London that taught me the joy of embracing imperfection. It was a freeing moment when I realised that letting go of the pressure to be perfect allowed me to experience true fun and creativity. By allowing myself to make mistakes and paint without expectations, I tapped into a sense of joy that comes from releasing inner perfectionism. Join me as I explore how trying something new can help us let go, enjoy the process, and find beauty in imperfection.Episode 2 Show Notes including photos of...2024-09-2305 minMel Finds JoyThe Joy of Late Blooming FlowersIn this episode, I reflect on the beauty of watching flowers bloom—especially the late bloomers. Being a late bloomer is often seen as a disadvantage, but it's a powerful reminder that we all bloom in our own time, at our own pace. I’ll share some personal insights and one of my favourite quotes: “You can’t be behind for your own life.” Let this episode be a gentle reminder that growth happens on our own unique timelines.Episode 1 show notes including a photo of my late blooming flowers: https://journeythrougheurope.com/mel-finds-joy-podcast-the-joy-of-late-blooming-flowers/↗Sign up fo...2024-09-1606 minMel Finds JoyWelcome to the Mel Finds Joy Podcast!I'm Mel, your host, and every week I'll be sharing something that has brought a little spark of joy into my life — whether it's something simple like having a cozy bath, singing my heart out at a concert, or managing to not kill my house plants that week. Together, we'll explore the small and big moments that can fill our lives with joy, and I'll share tips on how you can invite more joy into yours. So, let's dive in and find some joy today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-09-1300 min