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In this season finale, I want to reflect on something that's been on my mind a lot recently: the power of self-compassion and how we can embrace moments of "wintering" in our lives. For me, wintering isn’t just about the colder months, it’s about the times when we feel called to turn inward, to rest, to nurture ourselves, and to find a sense of renewal.

This is partly why I’ve started a new practice of taking a winter break from mid-December to mid-January. I’ve learned over the years that these intentional pauses for reflection and reconnection are necessary for me, and I suspect it will become something I’ll do every year.

Wintering seems to be featuring in many places right now. And I’ve even discovered that, astrologically, I’ve moved into my eighth house, a time that encourages reflection, introspection, and change. Maybe that’s why I’ve felt like I’ve been wintering since the summer?

Throughout this episode, I share how compassion - whether it’s toward ourselves or others - has such a profound impact on our well-being. I talk about how small, everyday acts of kindness toward ourselves release dopamine and oxytocin, helping us feel more connected and at ease. This is something I see in my own life, in the everyday ♡ compassion emails I send out, and in the connections I’m fortunate to make with you all.

I also share a poem from my My Darling Girl series, which feels especially fitting. It’s a reminder that loving ourselves is at the heart of everything we do. I hope it resonates with you as it does with me.

As we close the year, I'd love to invite you to reflect on how you can embrace these small acts of compassion, both toward yourself and others. 

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Sending you so much love, a big hug, and a wave. Let’s carry the warmth of compassion into the new year together.

RESOURCES

• Stars Aligned - published by Inner Work Project https://innerworkproject.com/product/stars-aligned/ 
• My darling girl vol 1 https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/my-darling-girl-vol-1 
• My darling girls vol 2 - the poem ‘I can love you’ (that I share in this episode) is on page 57 https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/my-darling-girl-vol-2 

***

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Have you ever felt the urge to retreat inward, seeking solace in the quiet corners of your own mind?

Over the past six months, I've found myself embracing a period of 'wintering'. A transformative journey of introspection shaped by both personal and global influences.

My own reflection on this, and listening to the experiences of others has inspired this episode - an invitation to explore the natural rhythm of energy that guides us between vibrant creativity and peaceful quietude. Regardless of the natural rhythms of the seasons, there's profound wisdom in accepting silence and stillness as part of our internal landscape.

I also share a Flow Journal entry, written several years ago - long before we came to this geographic space - which lays out the vision I held in my heart for creating a sanctuary, where love and self-discovery could flourish in a nurturing, healing space. I feel this piece of writing captures part of this essence of Wintering.

Overall, my feeling is that we can all benefit at times from a physical space that enables us to step into our own inner realm.

EXPLORE THIS DEEP INNER WORK,
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And it's this inner realm that truly is the space where stuck memories and limiting beliefs can be gently shifted, allowing you to embrace your true essence and desires. Here, we parent ourselves with compassion, trusting our inner wisdom while welcoming the transformation that occurs amidst laughter, tears, and growth. 

Whether you seek this sanctuary in solitude or through guided presence, it offers a personal refuge of rest and rejuvenation. A space for wisdom and sharing, a loving environment that holds and releases us, always ready to welcome us back into its embrace.

***

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How is it to experience the space where time & effort cease to exist?

Join us as we explore the concept of flow with Dr. Sue Jackson, a distinguished psychologist and author, who shares the wisdom of 30-years of research and brings her expertise across sports, business, education, and everyday life. 

In this episode...

• We navigate the nuanced relationship between flow, perfectionism, and mindfulness (this was particularly resonant as I listened back & realised my mic appeared to be underwater as we were recording!)
• Drawing inspiration from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's pioneering work, we investigate how flow can provide a sanctuary of ease and deep attention in our often chaotic, multitasking work environments. 
• From the influence of Buddhist principles to the power of being present, we reflect on personal experiences that demonstrate the transformative potential of flow. 
• We also hear the importance of reducing self-consciousness to foster flow and authentic connection - with Self, with others and with the task at hand - amidst modern life's disruptions.

I love how Sue guides us through the art of balancing challenge, trust in ourselves and skill to avoid the pitfalls of anxiety and boredom, whether on the ski slopes or tackling a mundane household task.

This episode celebrates the universal appeal - and the essential nature - of flow.

READ MORE
Sue's book Experiencing Flow: Life Beyond Boredom and Anxiety, is available direct from her or Amazon UK, Amazon (US),

***

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Self-abandonment can often feel like a hidden force, quietly pulling us away from the very practices that could ground us in our most challenging moments.

Have you ever wondered why we neglect meditation, journaling, or even a simple walk when they could help us the most? In this episode, we unravel the complexities behind these behaviours and explore how fear of confronting deeper issues keeps us from self-care. By shifting our perspective from "letting go" to "letting be," we create a compassionate space for our emotions, allowing us to approach our fears with curiosity rather than avoidance.

Continuing this journey, we explore the uplifting power of affirmations, such as "I am worthy of this attention", as a tool for reconnecting with oneself and overcoming self-abandonment. My "Affirmations in Practice" mini-course offers a beautiful place to explore the science and practical application of affirmations - full of guidance for those eager to nurture their inner equilibrium.

As we stand at the cusp of a new year, there's no better time to set intentions for personal growth and self-care - and if this raises deeper questions for you, then I'd be honoured to explore Working together one-to-one.

Affirmations in Practice Mini-Course
Just £7 with PROMO CODE: PODCAST

https://hennyflynn.ck.page/products/affirmations-in-practice-mini-course?promo=PODCAST

***

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Tap to send me your reflections ♡

Imagine having a gentle yet powerful tool in your back pocket that you can use whenever you need some First Aid. A tool that's there for you, whatever situation you find yourself in - helping to manage feelings of overwhelm, overstimulation and dysregulation, as you navigate life's unpredictable changes.

This self-guided emotional "first aid" technique is built around the mnemonic TONIC. In the episode we'll explore how these 5 stages: Time out, Options, Name, Intention, Compassion help us to recognise and nurture what we're feeling in the moment - and identify a way forward.

Join us as we explore the power of setting positive intentions and nurturing self-compassion. By focusing on simple affirmations like "I am safe" or "I am here," we connect mind and body to soothe the nervous system and encourage self-kindness, just as we would show to a loved one. Through physical gestures and written reflections, discover ways to cultivate a sense of warmth and care towards yourself. 

As we embrace this new fortnightly rhythm to our podcast, I am so grateful for your support. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to connect and share your reflections. I also invite you to sign up for my written reflections, offering a continuous source of support in your own journey.

***

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Tap to send me your reflections ♡

Have you ever wondered how much of our lives are governed by unwritten rules we've imposed on ourselves? 

Today's episode is a meander through some of the self-imposed constraints that often originate from societal expectations or beliefs we've inherited. We look at...

• Some of my own once unshakeable ideas - for example, that for work to be meaningful, it must always feel hard (spoiler alert... it's not true)
• How we can question and dismantle limiting constraints and the 'rules' we place around ourselves - to embrace flexibility and creative freedom
• How the concept of 'beautiful disruption' can help us create small, intentional changes in routine that help build adaptability, resilience and creativity. 

Like many of these reflective episodes, this has sparked a personal response for me too. And so, I'm now breaking one of the rules I'd inadvertently created for myself. I'm shifting from publishing the podcast weekly to fortnightly. It's an experiment and we'll see how it goes... after all, there are no rules! 

I would LOVE to hear what you think about this. Depending on where you're listening you may see a little link to message me your reflections - or you can always email. 

***

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Tap to send me your reflections ♡

This episode is about the paradox of embracing detachment (I love a paradox!)

Join me on a reflective journey exploring the transformative practices of detachment and self-compassion. I'll share what inspired this episode, diving into the intentional act of releasing - creating meaningful space around our behaviours and beliefs. And we'll touch on how moving away from a fear-based mindset and embracing flow and surrender can lead to healthier, more fulfilling ways of living. 

With loving detachment, we can let go of our relentless need to control, extending this practice to both external situations and our inner world. 

This active state of awareness invites us to address what genuinely needs our attention without falling into automatic, triggered responses. It's about embracing life’s moments without judgment or force. I close with a heartfelt message, sending you a virtual hug and wave. 

***

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How can music change the way we think, feel and heal?

Meet Kathy Harmon-Luber, the author of "Suffering to Thriving: Your Toolkit for Navigating Your Healing Journey," who joins me this week to share her  story of overcoming serious health challenges through the power of sound healing. 

In our conversation, we unravel the ancient wisdom and modern science behind sound’s impact on emotional and physiological well-being. From personal anecdotes to professional insights, we explore the profound role sound and music play in cultivating self-compassion, emotional stability, and overall healing.

• How sound healing is making a resurgence in modern medicine, finding its place in hospitals and nursing homes in the States. 
• The therapeutic effects of various musical genres, vocal yoga, and the intuitive joy of musical expression. 
• Kathy shares some compelling research along the way, from organisations like UCLA, which opens up how these practices could play a role in reducing stress and inflammation.
• Personal stories of how sound has helped overcome physical and emotional barriers, illustrating the remarkable benefits of integrating sound into daily life.
• Finally, we explore the future of sound healing through the lens of innovative medical treatments and pioneering professionals like Dr. Mitchell Gaynor. 

Our episode includes a special offering for listeners—a short course on healing the heart chakra, complete with a sound bath designed to open this vital energy point.

This episode is a celebration of Kathy’s journey from suffering to thriving and a testament to the incredible healing potential of sound and music - a journey of transformation and renewal.

CONNECT
You can find out more about Kathy, her FREE heart chakra offering, the Yoga Magazine article on sound, and her book here: www.SufferingToThriving.com
For Kathy's free heart chakra and sound bath offering, you can find out more here: https://healingartshealthandwellness.aweb.page/p/bfd182f7-b456-4ce8-b743-f21fcbd630d8

***

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Today I'm speaking with the sculptor, ceramicist, artist Paul Smith.   

I first came across his work many years ago and have always been struck by the powerful quality of compassion that, for me, sits within the pieces he creates.

Since then I've (joyfully) brought two of his pieces into my home - you'll hear more about what they represent to me... and how Paul keeps his own interpretation of his work open, so each person finds their own story within them.

It was a joy to speak with Paul and I'm delighted he accepted my invitation to join us here.

In our conversation, we explore the profound interplay between compassion, creativity, and masculinity. We touch on how true human connections, such as heartfelt hugs, are mirrored in creative works and the concept of gestalt, where intertwined figures symbolise both unity and individuality. And Paul shares his insights on the importance of compassion in our relationship with the natural world and the critical need to protect keystone species. His reflections highlight how creativity can foster a closer connection with our environment - as well as with our own emotional landscape. Toward the end of the episode, we come to understand this conversation is really about balance: balance in the beautiful work Paul shares, the importance of balance in nature and how we create balance across the different aspects in our inner and outer lives.

I loved speaking with Paul. I hope you enjoy listening.

MEET PAUL & see more of his work:
INSTAGRAM: @paulsmithsculptures

www.paulsmithsculptures.co.uk

REFERENCES:
Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype, by American psychoanalyst Clarissa Pinkola Estés (My enormous apologies for getting her name wrong in the episode!)

***

BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL WITH HENNY

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Tap to send me your reflections ♡

How do we navigate the stormy seas of grief while keeping our creative spark alive?

In this deeply personal episode, I open up about the emotional toll of grief and how it's impacted my ability to produce consistent podcast episodes this season. You'll hear about a fully recorded session that I ended up deleting, and how, with Anton's wise guidance, I've seen that speaking about how creativity can diminish in grief, is part of rekindling creativity.

From personal experiences like the loss of loved ones or navigating significant changes, we explore how activities like journaling can provide emotional relief and support. We discuss the concept of "transitional work," emphasising the importance of letting go of expectations and allowing our creativity to serve as a healing process.

Drawing wisdom from a grieving artist and a poignant Chinese proverb, we highlight the necessity of self-compassion and the role of various creative outlets—whether it's painting, music, or gardening—in holding sorrow so it doesn't overwhelm us.

Finally, I touch on the joy and inner wisdom that can be found in Flow Journaling, and an invitation to explore my book, "In the Flow" - and see how it can enhance your journaling practice and connection to your inner self.

BOOK: In the Flow - journal your creative wisdom

https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/bookshop

RESOURCES

https://www.insightcreativecoaching.com/blog-1/2023/11/10/art-and-grief#:~:text=Experiencing%20a%20significant%20loss%20or,for%20a%20period%20of%20time.

https://www.headspace.com/articles/grief-creativity-together

POEM

Memory is a strange bird doling out the world in 

shards—
 the stuff we are made of. 

I am the keeper, now, I hold them all. 

Tonight as I write I become conjurer— 

When I open my hands: A thousand sparrows 

Jessica Moore, Everything, Now. 

***

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