Impact!

This week, Ellen speaks to Tammy Minuti, who regularly guides folks in the lesser-known practice of forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, highlighting its potential for enhancing well-being and for connecting with the silent voice of Nature. Tammy shares insights from her journey as a certified guide, providing guidance on how to immerse yourself in nature's therapeutic embrace. Discover how a slow, meditative walk through the forest can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and reconnect us with the natural world in a profound way. Learn about Tammy's personal experiences and the unique moments she has witnessed while guiding diverse groups in this inspiring and enriching practice.

Suggested intention focus for this week

Hearing the wisdom of the indigenous teacher Tammy speaks to, for our suggested intention focus this week, let us remember that we are all ancestors in the making and will to be mindful of our responsibility for future generations, and for the healthy and vibrant future of all Nature.

Please join us in holding this.

Tammy’s website: tammyminuti.com

Upcoming public Forest Bathing walks include:

April: Wild Week at The Retreat House - Richardson, TX

https://www.retreathousecommunity.org/calendar

May: Wellness weekend in Calumet, MI, Expedition Inn

 https://www.expeditioninn.com/

June and October: Healing Garden - St. Charles, IL

https://www.healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com/

More walks will be posted on Tammy’s website, tammyminuti.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) https://anft.earth/

The Forest Bathing Institute https://tfb.institute/

The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, IL https://mortonarb.org/

The Healing Gardens at Stone Hill Farm, Saint Charles, IL https://www.healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com/

Chicago Botanic Garden https://www.chicagobotanic.org/

Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX https://www.smu.edu/perkins/publicprograms/certificate-in-spiritual-direction/certificate-in-spiritual-direction

HeartMath Institute Tree Interconnectivity research,  https://www.heartmath.org/resources/videos/interconnectivity-tree-research-project/

HeartMath Institute Tree Rhythm Research, https://treerhythms.net/

The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth, by Zoë Schlanger Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Light-Eaters-Unseen-Intelligence-Understanding/dp/0063073854/ref=sr_1_1

Your Guide to Forest Bathing (Expanded Edition): Experience the Healing Power of Nature, by M. Amos Clifford Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Guide-Forest-Bathing-Expanded/dp/1590035135/ref=sr_1_1

Healing Trees: A Pocket Guide to Forest Bathing, by Ben Page Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Trees-Pocket-Forest-Bathing/dp/1647224187/ref=sr_1_1

Global Healing Response Theme for Quarter 1 2025: Authenticity / Groundedness: https://globalhealingresponse.com/ghr-2025-q1-authenticity-groundedness/

Chapter markers:

00:00:00           Introduction

00:01:43           Understanding Forest Bathing

00:07:09           The Benefits of Nature

00:09:24           Connection to the Land

00:15:14            Becoming a Forest Bathing Guide

00:18:18            Tammy’s Personal Journey into Forest Bathing

00:21:42            Stories from the Walks

00:25:52           Getting to Know Tammy

00:27:41            Closing Thoughts

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

This week, we take a deep dive into one of the most disturbing and critical issues facing our world today: the mass rape of women and girls. We highlight horrific cases, including the trial of 51 men for the abuse of Gisèle Pelicot in France last year, and the appalling systemic use of sexual violence in war, which continues today in conflict zones like Sudan.

We explore the challenges faced by survivors in seeking justice, the cultural barriers that perpetuate the violence, and the urgent need for education and legal reforms worldwide. This episode aims to heighten awareness and support for women and girls who've faced trauma from such violence, reminding us of the power of collective intention in making an impact.

As always, we explore where we may hold intentions and prayers, and invite you join you to join us in sharing this.

See below for the contact information of help services offered to victims of rape. 

Please note that some listeners may find the topic covered in this episode disturbing.

Our intention holding and prayers starts at 20 minutes 7 seconds.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as we reflect upon the horrific incidence of mass rape and abuse against women and girls, we suggest holding as our main intention:

We will that there will be a significant heightening of awareness among the people of wealthier nations, and a consequent move to support women and girls facing trauma as a result of rape or threats of rape in countries that are in are have been at war.

Please join us in holding this.

Read Ellen’s blog posts on sacredfeminist.com: https://sacredfeminist.com/category/from-ellen/. Read her Open Letter to the Universe at https://sacredfeminist.com/an-open-letter-to-the-universe/. Ellen’s post, Why Is There a Marker for Sexual Slavery? can be found at https://sacredfeminist.com/why-is-there-a-market-for-sexual-slavery/.

Find out more about Clive’s offer of one-to-one sessions with women who want a representative of men to hear and receive their stories, anger and pain at https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/WMF.html.

Help services for women and girls facing sexual abuse include:

These mainly offer English language services. Outside of Europe, services in other languages are available in many countries.

Chapter markers:

00:00:00            Introduction          

00:01:10            Addressing Atrocities Against Women

00:05:16            The Global Scale of Abuse

00:08:21            Challenges in Pursuing Justice

00:14:10            The Role of Education in Prevention

00:18:31            Combating Toxic Masculinity

00:20:07            Intentions and Prayers

00:23:46            Support and Resources

00:28:49            Sacred Feminist

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://sacredfeminist.com/who-is-a-sacred-feminist/

https://www.dw.com/en/crisis-in-sudan-sexual-violence-rape-and-ethnic-attacks/a-69538323

https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/sexual-violence-against-children-used-weapon-war-sudan

https://www.genocidewatch.com/single-post/rape-as-a-weapon-of-war-and-genocide-in-sudan

https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/crime-and-justice/recorded-crime-victims/latest-release

https://www.cps.gov.uk/south-west/news/three-members-organised-crime-group-sentenced-human-trafficking-and-rape

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti_Mills_gang_rape

https://www.npr.org/2024/12/19/nx-s1-5232766/france-rape-trial-verdict

https://theweek.com/crime/frances-reckoning-over-largest-ever-child-sex-abuse-trial

https://apnews.com/article/france-ex-surgeon-child-abuse-rape-patients-4e1e627b9706c8032bcf38d4e4ed75fb

https://www.cdc.gov/sexual-violence/programs/ (about the USA-wide RPE program)

https://www.cps.gov.uk/about-cps/how-we-prosecute-rape

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15248380241261404?icid=int.sj-abstract.citing-articles.1

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11545439/

https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/rape-and-sexual-offences-chapter-5-issues-relevant-particular-groups-people

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/germany-shines-light-rape-allied-troops-who-defeated-nazis-n363136

https://core.ac.uk/reader/229591470

https://www.cps.gov.uk/domestic-abuse-context-and-challenges

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1077801206293500?icid=int.sj-abstract.citing-articles.37

https://www.equallysafeatschool.org.uk/about-svpp/

https://www.nsvrc.org/prevention/rpe-program

https://www.endviolenceagainstwomen.org.uk/new-report-its-about-time-a-whole-school-approach-to-ending-violence-against-women-and-girls/

https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk/what-we-do/child-criminal-exploitation/preventative-schools-work/

https://www.cdc.gov/sexual-violence/programs/index.html

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8494265/

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/08862605241245372

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9819047/

https://neu.org.uk/latest/library/working-boys-and-young-men-prevent-sexism-and-sexual-harassment

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

Continuing our exploration of the overlap, similarity or difference of intention and prayer (for part 1, find us where you get your podcasts or via the link below). In this episode, we consider whether seeing God (or Source, Spirit) as a power within us takes us any closer in our definition of intention holding. We touch on the question of where the utterance or vibration of an intention or prayer may originate from, ponder the relevance of yearning or desire in intercession and intention holding, and come back to exploring how our thoughts, volition, and feeling all come together in offering what we will to happen. Sit back or sit up (if you're driving!) and come exploring and questioning with us.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as we’ve considered the nature of intention holding and prayer, we suggest holding as our main intention:

I resolve when holding intention or offering prayer to have confidence [or faith] in the power accessible within myself or upon which I can call to direct my will for something to be.

Please join us in holding this.

Chapter markers:

00:00:00        Introduction

00:01:48        Deep Dive into Intention

00:04:12        The Power of Silence

00:06:40        Heart and Mind Connection

00:10:52        Exploring Intercession and Prayer

00:15:44        Divine Power Within Us

00:17:39        Co-Partnering in Prayer

00:20:27        Understanding Intention and Desire

00:29:53        Intercession vs. Intention

00:31:57        Suggested Focus for Intention

Websites, events and organisations mentioned in this episode:

Part 1 to our conversation can be heard at https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/exploring-the-intersection-of-intention-and-prayer-a-deep-dive/

Register here to join a free online (Zoom) party to celebrate 20 years of Global Healing Response! https://legacylabyrinthproject.kindful.com/register/ghr-20th-anniversary-2025

Episode: Groundedness: Becoming and Staying Grounded – https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/embracing-groundedness-for-spiritual-growth/

Episode: Global Healing Response: Embracing Authenticity – https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/embracing-authenticity-a-new-years-journey-to-true-change/

Ellen talks about Heart-Brain coherence (YouTube video) – https://youtu.be/yYHZUKK6t1s?si=dB0HLDBOP09b59sp

Information about Centering Prayer – https://graceupongrace.org.uk/guided-meditation-centring-prayer/  https://www.contemplative.org/contemplative-practice/centering-prayer/  https://cac.org/daily-meditations/the-method-2017-02-13/

HeartMath Instititute – https://www.heartmath.org/

Daniel Benor, research relating to spiritual healing ­– https://www.danielbenor.com/

The O Manuscript by Lars Muhl, Amazon.com link –  https://www.amazon.com/Manuscript-Scandinavian-Bestseller-Lars-Muhl/dp/1780286724/ref=sr_1_1

The Intention Experiment: Using Your Thoughts to Change Your Life and the World  by Lynne McTaggart, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Intention-Experiment-Using-Thoughts-Change/dp/0743276965/ref=sr_1_1

The Field: The Quest for the Secret Force of the Universe by Lynne McTaggart, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Field-Quest-Secret-Force-Universe/dp/006143518X/ref=sr_1_1

Sources referenced in this episode:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - English Standard Version

The reference cited of Jesus’s teaching in the Gospel of Thomas is from Saying 24, citing the Blatz translation of the New Testament Apocrypha.

Deepak Chopra, cited at https://chopra.com/blogs/mind-body-health/5-steps-to-setting-powerful-intentions

All quotes of Lynne McTaggart mentioned in this episode cite her book, The Intention Experiment: Using Your Thoughts to Change Your Life and the World

Benor, D J, Healing Research: Holistic Energy medicine and spirituality, Volume 1, Helix Editions Ltd, 1993, pp 54-5

https://www.thinksmarterworld.com/wayne-dyer-and-the-power-of-intention/

‘Does God answer Prayer? A Hindu Perspective,’ by Pandit Sri Rama Ramanuja Achari, https://www.srimatham.com/uploads/5/5/4/9/5549439/does_god_answer_prayer.pdf

https://www.heartmath.com/science/

https://www.heartmath.org/research/science-of-the-heart/

https://www.heartmath.org/articles-of-the-heart/science-of-the-heart/the-energetic-heart-is-unfolding/

https://www.facebook.com/Ligonier/videos/what-does-it-mean-to-be-in-christ/423492105462216/

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

This week, in the first of a 2-part special, we thought we’d try to get to the root of something that’s so fundamental to what this podcast is about – what we actually mean when we talk about intention and prayer. We usually use these terms interchangeably, but know that different folks have different understandings of what the terms mean – and, depending on what this understanding is, the two aren’t necessarily the same. So, we thought we’d attempt explore some of these different understandings, and see where what happens when we pray or hold intention may overlap, and where science may be tuning in with this too. A fascinating episode, and one in which we know we need to get beyond some common definitions.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as we’ve considered the nature of intention holding and prayer, we suggest holding as our main intention:

I resolve when holding intention or offering prayer to have confidence in the power accessible within myself or upon which I can call to direct my will for something to be.

Please join us in holding this.

Websites sources, books and organisations mentioned in this episode:

Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) – https://noetic.org/

HeartMath Instititute – https://www.heartmath.org/

The Intention Experiment: Using Your Thoughts to Change Your Life and the World  by Lynne McTaggart, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Intention-Experiment-Using-Thoughts-Change/dp/0743276965/ref=sr_1_1

The Field: The Quest for the Secret Force of the Universe by Lynne McTaggart, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Field-Quest-Secret-Force-Universe/dp/006143518X/ref=sr_1_1

The Power of Intention by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Power-Intention-Dr-Wayne-Dyer/dp/1401902162/ref=sr_1_1

The Active Side of Infinity by Carlos Castane, Amazon.com link – https://www.amazon.com/Active-Side-Infinity-Carlos-Castaneda/dp/006092960X/ref=sr_1_1

Sources referenced in this episode:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - English Standard Version

All quotes of Lynne McTaggart mentioned in this episode cite her book, The Intention Experiment: Using Your Thoughts to Change Your Life and the World

https://www.thinksmarterworld.com/wayne-dyer-and-the-power-of-intention/

‘Does God answer Prayer? A Hindu Perspective,’ by Pandit Sri Rama Ramanuja Achari, https://www.srimatham.com/uploads/5/5/4/9/5549439/does_god_answer_prayer.pdf

https://www.heartmath.com/science/

https://www.heartmath.org/research/science-of-the-heart/

https://www.heartmath.org/articles-of-the-heart/science-of-the-heart/the-energetic-heart-is-unfolding/

https://www.facebook.com/Ligonier/videos/what-does-it-mean-to-be-in-christ/423492105462216/

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked yet crucial role that peatlands play in the health of our planet. We explore the ecological significance of these unique wetland ecosystems that store twice as much carbon as all the forests worldwide. We discover how peatlands contribute to climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and water management, and learn about the pressing threats they face due to human activities. As always, we invite you to join us for prayer and and intention holding, focusing our collective energy on fostering a global response to protect and conserve peatlands. Listen in and become part of the movement to make a real impact on our planet’s future.

Our intention holding and prayers start at 14 minutes 38 seconds.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as we consider the vital role played by peatlands in mitigating greenhouse emissions, maintaining biodiversity and healthy natural drainage, we suggest holding as our main intention:

We will that those who have influence among all member states of the United Nations will be moved to respond assertively, effectively and immediately to the call of UN Environment for urgent co-ordinated action to protect and conserve peatlands worldwide.

Please join us in holding this.

Websites and episodes referenced in this episode:

Global Healing Response quarter theme, Groundedness. Download resources at https://globalhealingresponse.com/ghr-2025-q1-authenticity-groundedness/

Our recent episode, ‘Groundedness: Becoming and Staying Grounded’ https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/embracing-groundedness-for-spiritual-growth/

Chapter markers:

00:00:00            Introduction

00:14:43            Holding Intentions

00:02:03            Why Peatlands Matter

00:07:47            Threats to Peatlands

00:10:16            Restoration Efforts

00:14:38            Intention holding and prayers

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/peatlands-hold-more-carbon-than-all-the-worlds-forests-yet-are-dangerously-underprotected

https://climate.ec.europa.eu/climate-change/causes-climate-change_en

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.20.749279/full

https://dnr.illinois.gov/education/cdhabitatmain/cdhabitatpeatland.html

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/protecting-peatlands-protecting-planet

https://www.unep.org/resources/global-peatlands-assessment-2022

https://www.bgs.ac.uk/discovering-geology/climate-change/how-does-the-greenhouse-effect-work/

https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/research/peatland-ecosystem-services/

https://peatlands.org/peatlands/ecosystem-services/

https://thinklandscape.globallandscapesforum.org/68020/what-are-peatlands-and-why-are-they-important/

https://peatlands.org/peatlands/where-can-peatlands-be-found/

https://www.hiveenergy.co.uk/2024/05/28/how-carbon-sequestration-can-mitigate-climate-change/

https://www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/about-peatlands/peatland-benefits

https://valuing-nature.net/valuing-peatlands

https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2022/06/02/peatlands-which-can-help-fight-against-climate-change-face-many-threats

https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-022-00547-x

https://www.carbonbrief.org/just-17-of-worlds-peatlands-are-protected-new-study-warns/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6828836/

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/peatlands-store-twice-much-carbon-all-worlds-forests

https://www.unep-wcmc.org/en/news/peatlands-matter-how-the-global-peatlands-assessment-can-drive-restoration-action

https://www.climateimpact.com/news-insights/insights/peatland-restoration-a-climate-solution-with-high-biodiversity-impact/

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/human-health-benefits-conserving-and-restoring-peatlands

https://news.mongabay.com/2025/02/only-17-of-peatlands-vital-to-curbing-climate-change-are-protected-study-finds/

https://www.nature.scot/doc/peatland-action-technical-compendium

https://www.climatexchange.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/peatland-restoration-methods-a-comparative-analysis.pdf

https://peatlands.org/peatlands/peatland-restoration/

https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/news/new-techniques-for-peatland-restoration/

https://forestryandland.gov.scot/what-we-do/biodiversity-and-conservation/peatlands/peatland-restoration

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

This week, we seek to understand what is causing the escalating conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. The historical tensions and recent developments have culminated in a humanitarian crisis that demands global attention. As many thousands this year have been displaced, killed or been subject to violence, we explore the complex background of this conflict, sharing insights on the major players and their motivations. As always, we invite you to join us in offering intention and prayer for the affected. Intention holding and prayers start at 16 minutes 20 seconds.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as hopes of negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting peace between the Democatic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda are revived, we suggest holding as our main intention: 

We will that all parties seeking to navigate a way forward in the dispute between Rwanda and the DRC over their competing interests in North Kivu will receive wisdom to conceive a comprehensive agreement that is acceptable to all parties.

Please join us in holding this.

Intention holding and prayers start at 16 minutes 20 seconds.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00        Introduction

00:16:20        Intentions and Prayers

00:01:04        Overview of the Conflict

00:02:00        Geography of the Conflict

00:07:13        Historical Roots of the Conflict

00:08:49        The Rise of M23

00:10:40        Prospects for Peace

00:18:31        Intention Focus

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/africa-file-special-edition-m23-march-threatens-expanded-conflict-dr-congo-and-regional

https://humanitarianaction.info/document/global-humanitarian-overview-2025/article/democratic-republic-congo-rrp-1

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/congo-rwanda-border-reopens-with-extended-service-hours-4924526

https://www.usip.org/publications/2025/02/drc-rwanda-truce-key-african-and-us-interests-heres-how-get-there

https://amaniafrica-et.org/psc-summit-on-the-situation-in-eastern-drc/

https://casebook.icrc.org/case-study/democratic-republic-congo-conflict-kivus

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgly1yrd9j3o

https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/141061-modern-day-gold-rush-north-kivu-what-law-can-do.html

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/14/dozens-of-children-raped-by-armed-men-in-eastern-drc-unicef-says

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvgmj00zjrpo

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/14/dr-congos-m23-fighters-seize-bukavu-airport-before-african-union-summit

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-02-09/African-leaders-call-for-immediate-ceasefire-in-eastern-DR-Congo-1AQoVSGQCli/p.html

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgyzl1mlkvo

https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/fears-mount-as-m23-capture-towns-outside-bukavu-4926586

https://africacenter.org/spotlight/risk-of-regional-conflict-following-fall-of-goma-and-m23-offensive-in-the-drc/

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/13/as-the-drc-battles-rwanda-backed-m23-whats-needed-to-stop-the-fighting

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/historic-case-by-dr-congo-against-rwanda-kicks-off-at-african-court-amid-conflict-in-goma/3479863

https://theconversation.com/drc-conflict-talks-have-failed-to-bring-peace-is-it-time-to-try-sanctions-248792

https://www.cfr.org/global-conflict-tracker/conflict/violence-democratic-republic-congo

https://www.chathamhouse.org/2025/02/events-drc-show-new-realpolitik-emerging-africa-one-fraught-danger

https://www.dw.com/en/dr-congo-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-conflict/a-71437683

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

Valentine’s Day comes around again this week, perhaps being one day in the year that gets many people thinking about love. The Christian priest Saint Valentine was martyred for practising Christianity and continuing to marry Christian couples against the orders of Roman Emperor Claudius II, and it was the poet Chaucer who was instrumental in linking his acts of devotion with romantic love. But when we talk about love, we’re talking about a vital, pervading force in the universe that many know as being divine. This kind of love, and specifically lovingkindness, is vital for intention work and prayer, as we’ll explore in this episode. We also offer a guided lovingkindness (mettā) meditation that you may wish to enjoy with us.

The meditation starts at 16 minutes 55 seconds.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as we appreciate the importance of welcoming and offering lovingkindness in our intention holding and intercession, we suggest holding as our main intention:

I acknowledge the importance of embracing and sharing lovingkindness in the work of intention holding and prayer, and resolve to regularly pursue practices such as meditation to welcome lovingkindness into my life and to will this for others.

Please join us in regularly remembering and putting this personal commitment into practice.

The standard form of the Ho’oponopono prayer is: I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you.

Chapter markers:

00:00:00        Introduction

00:02:05        Exploring Loving Kindness

00:05:02        The Importance of Loving Kindness

00:08:09        Activism and Authenticity

00:11:52        Practicing Loving Kindness

00:16:55        Guided Meditation for Loving Kindness

00:25:37        Embracing Loving Kindness in Everyday Life

Books and resources referred to in this episode:

Groundedness episode https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/embracing-groundedness-for-spiritual-growth/

‘The Heart of Lovingkindness, How to live from the heart’ by Clive Johnson

https://www.clivejohnsonvoiceovers.co.uk/lp/heartoflovingkindness.html

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily lovingkindness meditation with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.templeton.org/news/without-love-we-perish

https://conversatio.org/the-hearts-desires/

Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary, 1899, cited at https://psychology.wikia.org/wiki/Mettā.

Coverdale and the First Complete Printed English Bible, https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012408.

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

In this episode we dive deep into the political landscape of Germany as it gears up for a critical snap election. With Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government having recently collapsed, the country faces a crucial decision at the polls on February 23rd,  amid a backdrop of political fragmentation, economic stagnation, and significant shifts in voter dynamics.

In this episode, we explore the current political scene, and seek to understand the key issues shaping voter concerns, and what has led to an unprecedented rise in support for the right wing AdF party. As always, we aim to see where our prayers and intentions are most needed as this critical moment for Europe's largest economy approaches.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as Germany’s federal election approaches, we suggest holding as our main intention:

We will that all voters in the forthcoming federal election in Germany will be moved to cast their vote in the interest of the greatest good for both themselves and their fellow citizens.

Please join us in holding this.

Chapter markers:

00:00:00       Introduction

00:02:11        Understanding Germany’s Political Landscape

00:04:55       The Rise of the AfD

00:10:18        Economic Stagnation and Its Impacts

00:12:50        Intentions and Prayers

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/11/12/germany-set-to-hold-snap-elections-on-23-february-reports-claim

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/16/world/europe/germany-government-collapse-olaf-scholz.html

https://www.politico.eu/article/germany-coalition-government-collapse-olaf-scholz-finance-minister-christian-lindner/

https://www.politico.eu/article/germany-federal-snap-election-take-place-feb-23-2025/

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7v3r046pzzo

https://www.cleanenergywire.org/news/tracking-path-germany-snap-elections-2025

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/27/german-president-dissolves-parliament-confirming-february-election

https://www.euractiv.com/section/politics/news/scholz-submits-request-to-hold-confidence-vote-paves-way-for-february-elections/

https://www.dw.com/en/german-election-2025-parties-launch-their-campaigns/a-71083928

https://www.dw.com/en/german-election-immigration-and-the-economy-top-the-list-of-concerns/a-71265549

https://www.gisreportsonline.com/r/german-political-landscape/

https://www.westcoastgermanmedia.com/germanys-upcoming-election-a-look-ahead-to-february-2025/

https://vinciworks.com/blog/how-the-2025-german-federal-election-could-reshape-europe/

https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/germany-at-a-crossroads-coalition-breakdown-portends-sweeping-change-in-2025/

https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/12/13/germany-afd-far-right-ban-populism/

https://www.osw.waw.pl/en/publikacje/osw-commentary/2023-06-20/too-green-too-fast-too-dear-afd-gaining-popularity-germany

https://www.voanews.com/a/german-far-right-leader-questions-nato-membership-/7901894.html

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/09/world/musk-livestream-afd-weidel-germany-intl/index.html

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

This week, we explore the transformative power of being grounded and consider  its foundational role in any spiritual journey, and in intention holding and prayer. We examine what it truly means to be grounded and why it is crucial for connecting with our authentic selves. We'll discuss the significance of grounding as the theme for the Global Healing Response this quarter and its relationship with GHR's running theme for the year, authenticity. We also reflect on the interplay between our physical and spiritual grounding and how these connections empower us to live authentically and hold meaningful intentions. Specifically, we talk about the meaning of "Ground Of Being."

The episode also gets practical, offering a guided meditation  to help you anchor yourself and connect with your core. 

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as Global Healing Response offers groundedness as its quarterly theme, and as we appreciate the importance of being grounded for living authentically and for being able to connect with our Higher Self in intention holding and intercession, we suggest holding as our main intention: 

I acknowledge the importance of grounding in the work of intention holding, prayer and authentic living, and resolve to regularly pursue practices such as meditation that will strengthen my connection with my ground, the Ground of Being.

Please join us in regularly remembering and putting this personal commitment into practice.

The guided meditation for grounding starts at 26 minutes.

Websites, books and resources mentioned in this episode:

Global Healing Response 2025 theme: Authenticity. This quarter: Groundedness  https://globalhealingresponse.com/ghr-2025-q1-authenticity-groundedness/

Hear our episode introducing GHR’s theme for this year: Authenticity. https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/embracing-authenticity-a-new-years-journey-to-true-change/

‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Viktor E. Frankl. Amazon.com link: https://www.amazon.com/Mans-Search-Meaning-Viktor-Frankl/dp/0807014273/ref=sr_1_1

Chapter markers:

00:00:00        Welcome and Introduction

00:26:20        Guided Meditation for Grounding

00:01:16        The Importance of Groundedness

00:05:14        Personal Reflections on Grounding

00:06:23        Grounding in Prayer and Intention

00:11:59        Philosophical Perspectives on Ground of Being

00:16:24        Connection with Gaia

00:19:45        Groundedness in Spiritual Practice

00:21:07        What Groundedness Is Not

00:22:52        Practices for Becoming Grounded

00:26:00        Guided Meditation

00:33:23        Personal Focus

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://lonerwolf.com/how-to-ground-yourself/

https://thedruidsgarden.com/2016/07/22/spiritual-practices-to-finding-equilibrium-in-the-chaos-grounding-and-flow-through-the-druid-elements/

https://milesolsen.com/blog/2020/5/4/what-does-it-mean-to-be-grounded-how-to-be-more-grounded

https://www.gemmamurphyyoga.co.uk/what-does-it-mean-to-be-grounded/

https://www.rebeccacohen.yoga/blog/what-does-grounded-mean-spiritually

https://www.holisticprairiemama.com/post/earthing-grounding-and-why-we-need-to-connect-with-god-s-earth-s-energy

https://getgroundedshop.com/en-gb/blogs/inspirational/when-prayer-becomes-a-mere-routine-its-time-to-start-grounding-yourself

https://dailymeditationswithmatthewfox.org/2023/03/22/eckhart-thich-nhat-hanh-hildegard-on-god-as-ground-of-being/

https://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/84287/god-as-the-ground-of-being

https://religiousnaturalism.org/god-as-ground-of-being-paul-tillich/ (this offers a brief, but very accessible take on Paul Tillich’s philosophy of God as being The “Ground of Being.”)

https://www.holistic-wellbeing.co.uk/the-importance-of-staying-grounded/

https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/grounded-prayer/

https://baptiststandard.com/opinion/other-opinions/right-or-wrong-god-as-ground-of-being/

https://www.forestpath.co/articles-teachings-meditations/the-ground-of-being

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.   

On January 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Holocaust Memorial Day, the victims of genocides past and present are remembered through ceremonies, vigils, film, spoken testimony, and community gatherings to honour victims and survivors. We are encouraged to stop to remember the realities of the Holocaust and other genocides, including the continuing risk of man’s inhumanity to man escalating to committing similar atrocities in the future.

This year, this important day will especially mark and remember the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau 80 years ago, as well as the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia in the early1990’s. It comes at a time when antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, xenophobia, and other forms of intolerance, hostility and suspicion towards different communities are on the rise in many countries, including in our own.

In this episode, as we recall and honor the past, we reflect on the ever more urgent need to be alert to the lessons taught by these atrocities, and join together to focus our intentions and prayers on specific topics they stir in our hearts.

Suggested Intention Focus for this week

This week, as Holocaust Remembrance is honoured and the anniversaries of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and of the genocide in Bosnia are remembered, we suggest holding as our main intention:

We honour the victims and survivors of all past and present genocides, and ask that those who have passed will be at peace, and those who remain will receive courage, comfort and always be protected in healing light.

Please join us in holding this.

Our guided time of prayer and intention sending, to join with us in sending energy starts at 11 minutes 14 seconds.

Legacy Labyrinth Project online workshop 1 February, Joy is a form of Resistance: https://legacylabyrinthproject.kindful.com/register/joy-is-a-form-of-resistance-2025 

Websites and resources relating to this episode:

Holocaust Memorial Day https://hmd.org.uk/what-is-holocaust-memorial-day/this-years-theme/

Holocaust Remembrance Day https://www.ungeneva.org/en/meetings-events/events/observances-special-events/2025/01/holocaust-remembrance-day-27-january-2025

International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust (23 January 2025) https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/international-day-commemoration-memory-victims-holocaust-1

Holocaust Museums and Memorials https://www.un.org/en/holocaustrememberance/additionalresources/museums

European Network Remembrance and Solidarity resources relating to the Shoah (films, interviews, educational resources) https://enrs.eu/news/international-holocaust-remembrance-day-2025

Genocide Watch https://www.genocidewatch.com/

Genocide Watch country reports (includes countries and situations where genocide has not yet been legally classified but atrocities are occurring or considered likely) https://www.genocidewatch.com/copy-of-country-reports-by-region

Our episode marking Holocaust Memorial Day last year, relating Ellen's family's personal story: https://www.heartfulimpact.com/e/holocaust-memorial-day-and-genocide-today/

Chapter markers:

00:00:00            Introduction

00:01:02            Holocaust Remembrance Day

00:04:05            Purpose of Holocaust Memorial Day

00:06:29            Current Genocides around the World

00:08:36            Lasting Effects of Historical Atrocities

00:11:14              Intentions and Prayers

Sources referenced in this episode:

https://www.ungeneva.org/en/meetings-events/events/observances-special-events/2025/01/holocaust-remembrance-day-27-january-2025

https://srebrenica.org.uk/what-happened/history/happened-srebrenica

https://srebrenica.org.uk/what-happened/history/bosnian-war-a-brief-overview

https://hmd.org.uk/what-is-holocaust-memorial-day/this-years-theme/

https://genocideeducation.org/resources/modern-era-genocides/

https://www.hrw.org/breaking-news/2025/01/08/us-state-department-determines-genocide-sudan

https://www.ushmm.org/remember/international-holocaust-remembrance-day

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-accused-genocide-gaza-amnesty-international/

Join us in person for intention holding:  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/events-1 Labyrinth Activist Network Zoom calls  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj Daily intention holding with Clive on Insight Timer.  

Our websites:   

www.heartfulimpact.com/   Our show website.  

https://globalhealingresponse.com/ Global Healing Response ~ Offers a wealth of prayers, suggested practices and prompts in response to environmental catastrophe, conflict, and other world events.  

https://www.legacylabyrinthproject.org/ Legacy Labyrinth Project ~ Creating global energetic connections through the labyrinth; inspiring active intention sending using the labyrinth via labyrinth activism.  

https://www.clivejohnsonministry.com/ Clive Johnson Ministry ~ Events and offerings aimed at building beloved community, including weekly energy holding vigils and Power of Eight group.  

https://insighttimer.com/cliverj ~ Daily intention holding.  

Impact! Is presented by Ellen Bintz and Clive Johnson. It is produced by Impact Productions.  

Our show content is hosted by Podbean and available from all major podcast platforms.  

Our theme music is by Chris Collins. indiemusicbox.com.  

Our logo artwork is by AltoClassic (Getty Images/istock).  

Contact us via Facebook Messenger from the Impact! Facebook group, or using any of the contact methods mentioned on our websites.  

Impact! www.heartfulimpact.com.