One of the greatest challenges we face as a people is the misunderstanding that we must tend to the needs and suffering of those around us before we tend to our own. Often we are told to disregard our needs, to focus on others first, even exclusively. However, as I will talk about today, you are absolutely useless to anyone if you are not taking care of yourself first.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

Here’s something you might not know; your thoughts create your reality. Okay, if you’re here then you have listened to Zen Commuter and you know that already. But what does that have to do with calm? What we focus on grows, good or bad. if we think the world is horrible, our brains actively look for evidence to support that belief. Well, the same is true for seeing the world as beautiful. Watch where you spend your attention and see the world you create. Don’t like it? Change your thoughts.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

Many times, mostly when we are sad or lonely, we think things will never change. We think that the sorrow will remain forever. However, whether you are going through a good time or a tough one, it is certain that it will not remain the same. In challenging times this gives us hope that brighter times are ahead. In joyous times it is recommended to enjoy the moment, knowing that it too will cease. This seeming randomness, while on some level being cyclical, can bring about a wonderful sense of calm.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

There are always calm moments, but fewer absolutely transcendent moments of utter serenity. Can you remember one? If you can’t, then you have all the ingredients for making one. today I share with you one of mine, and encourage you to create yours.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

Not every moment in life ties up neatly. Some conversations trail off. Some endings never come. And yet, calm is still possible—even in the face of loose ends. In today’s episode, I explore how we can find peace not by forcing closure, but by learning to rest in the unknown. Whether it’s a lingering question, an unresolved relationship, or a dream left open-ended, this episode offers a gentle path toward acceptance and emotional freedom.

• Why the need for closure can create tension and unrest

• How to shift your mindset around unresolved situations

• A simple practice for making peace with what’s still unfolding.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

In today’s episode of Calmer in 5, we explore something deceptively simple, but deeply powerful—the act of slowing down to truly connect with others. It’s easy to get swept up in the current of our own to-do lists, inner chatter, and distractions. But when we pause—even for a moment—we open the door to meaningful human connection.

When we release our grip on self-absorption, we make space for love, presence, and shared understanding. It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about stopping long enough to truly see the person in front of us.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

• Why fast living can rob us of genuine human moments

• How self-focus can block us from feeling connection and love

• A simple practice you can use today to shift into presence and engage more fully with others

Whether it's with a friend, a stranger, or someone you see every day, today’s episode is your reminder that calm deepens when we slow down and connect.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

When we think of calm we often think about being alone, in the woods, at home alone or at the beach. But today I talk about how community, real community, can bring an even deeper sense of calm.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: patreon.com/zencommuter

In today’s episode, we explore a subtle but powerful truth: real love doesn’t always come with advice, solutions, or action. Sometimes, the most calming and compassionate thing we can offer another person is simply our presence. When we stop trying to fix others and instead let them feel seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are, we invite peace into the relationship and into ourselves.

By releasing the pressure to “make things better,” we create space for deeper connection, trust, and ease. Love doesn’t always have to be loud. Often, it’s at its most powerful when it’s just still.

“Calm grows in the space between presence and permission—when we let people be exactly who they are.”

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: zencommuter.com/support

IIn today’s episode, we explore the calming power of boundaries—and why they’re one of the kindest, most respectful ways to care for yourself and your relationships. Far from being walls, boundaries are invitations to connect with clarity and mutual understanding. When we set limits rooted in self-awareness and love, we create the space for calm to thrive.

Whether it’s saying no, asking for space, or protecting your time, boundaries help reduce stress, prevent resentment, and bring you closer to the life you truly want. Peace begins with knowing where you end and someone else begins.

“Every time you set a boundary, you tell the world—and yourself—that your peace matters.”

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: zencommuter.com/support

Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out!

In today’s episode, we explore how the simple act of listening can be a powerful tool for creating calm. In a world full of noise, distractions, and constant opinions, truly hearing someone—without jumping in to fix or respond—builds trust, presence, and peace. Whether it’s a friend, a loved one, or even yourself, deep listening is one of the most grounding gifts you can offer.

Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm.

Let’s Connect: Instagram: @thom_walters Email: [email protected] Support the show: zencommuter.com/support

Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out!