Eager for a change in your life but unsure where to begin?

Grab your chance to uncover Inner Wisdom & Transform Your Life: 

https://bit.ly/You-Are-Not-Broken-Book-Link

---------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Mindful Movement Podcast, host Les Raymond welcomes back Lee Holden, a globally recognized Qigong teacher, author, and founder of Holden Qigong. whose work bridges ancient Eastern practices with modern life. With decades of experience in Chinese medicine, Tai Chi, and energy healing, Lee has guided thousands toward greater vitality, calm, and self-awareness. His teachings emphasize the transformative potential of movement, breath, and intention, making complex wisdom accessible to all.

Lee joins the conversation to talk about his new book, Ready, Set, Slow, which shows how slowing down can improve your health, relationships, and overall well-being. He shares how to bring mindfulness into daily life, whether it’s through movement, meals, or meaningful connection. Whether you’re just starting with Qigong or have been practicing for years, Lee’s down-to-earth approach offers simple ways to find more clarity, balance, and joy.

Expect to Learn

• The ancient roots and therapeutic power of Tao Yin and its relationship to Qigong and yoga
• Why slowing down can boost productivity, creativity, and longevity
• How to bring more mindfulness into your daily meals, movements, and conversations
• Ways to deepen intimacy and connection through energy awareness and presence
• Simple rituals and nature practices to help reset and restore your nervous system

Episode Breakdown with Suggested Timestamps

[00:00] – Introduction & Catching Up

[01:01] – Starting Tao Yin Practice & Reconnecting with Movement

[02:15] – What Is Tao Yin? Flow, Intention & Energy Circulation

[05:59] – Embodying Mindfulness Through Movement

[08:06] – Why Lee Wrote Ready, Set, Slow

[10:31] – Applying Slowness in Weightlifting, Intimacy & Life

[16:16] – Flow State in Sports and Stressful Moments

[20:10] – The Power of Mindful Eating & The Slow Food Movement

[27:09] – Applying Slow Principles to Sexual Connection

[42:25] – Vitality, Semen Retention & Energy Circulation

[46:31] – Creating a Daily Slow Routine

[50:02] – Grounding, Forest Bathing & Connecting with Trees

[54:01] – The Healing Power of a Twisted Tree

[57:30] – Chuang Tzu’s Twisted Tree Story & Final Reflections

[58:13] – Where to Find Lee & Wrap-Up

Connect with Lee Holden:

• Official Website: https://www.holdenqigong.com 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holdenqigong
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holdenqigongofficial
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoldenQiGong 
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holdenqigong 
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/holdenqigong 

Follow Les Raymond on Social:

• Mindful Movement Website: https://www.themindfulmovement.com/ 

Resources Mentioned for Mindful Movement

Find more engaging content from the Mindful Movement team on these YouTube channels:

• @TheMindfulMovement 
• @TheMindfulMovementinMotion 
• @TheMindfulMovementKids 

#Mindfulness #SlowLiving #Qigong #HolisticHealth #IntimacyAndConnection #ReadySetSlow

Our Sponsors:
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Welcome to this journey of relaxation and healing. You can use this practice to connect with your calm and healing energy during the day or as a way to help you easily go to sleep and heal through the night. It's time to nurture your well-being and restore your balance.

Thank you to  @SoundofAshana  for providing the beautiful and healing music for this practice.

Please enjoy the podcast interview with Ashana.

More information for HEALING HYPNOTHERAPY: https://www.themindfulmovement.com/healing-hypnotherapy

Meditation written and read by Sara Raymond

Music Credit: "Soulmerge" by Ashana  @SoundofAshana 

(c) 2006 Angelic Tones / Barkawitz Music (ASCAP)

Used with permission of the artist

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
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Take 10 minutes out of your day when you may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed to practice this short guided meditation to help you balance your energy and get grounded. Enjoy a time of curious introspection, noticing your breath and your body, then inviting in relaxation and ease.

Meditation written by Mollie Raymond and read by Sara Raymond

Music Credit: Heart Meditation by Chris Collins, indiemusicbox.com

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

“Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.”

• Jimi Hendrix

Meditation written and Read by Sara Raymond

Music Credit: Enlighten Me (Theta) by Christopher Lloyd Clarke from www.enlightenedaudio.com

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It's never too late to heal from your past. There is power within you to be there for your younger self. You can provide for that part of you that needed someone... that needed love. Turn inward and practice, and allow yourself to heal. Your inner child is still there, patiently waiting for you.

Written by Les and Sara Raymond and read by Sara Raymond

Music: Coming Down by Christopher Lloyd Clarke from www.enlightenedaudio.com

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Eager for a change in your life but unsure where to begin?

Grab your chance to uncover Inner Wisdom & Transform Your Life: 

https://bit.ly/You-Are-Not-Broken-Book-Link 

---------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Mindful Movement Podcast, host Les Raymond sits down with Paul Cooke, a former member of the controversial religious group The Children of God. Paul shares his deeply personal journey and how he left Brown University in search of truth, got drawn into the cult, and spent nearly a decade following its radical teachings.

Paul unpacks the psychological grip of cults, the suppression of independent thought, and the difficult process of reclaiming personal identity after years of indoctrination. His reflections on faith, critical thinking, and resilience offer valuable insights for anyone questioning belief systems or seeking personal freedom.

Expect to Learn:

• What led Paul to join The Children of God and how he became fully immersed.
• How cults manipulate through control, fear, and isolation.
• The moment Paul realized he needed to escape, and how he did it.
• The psychological challenges of leaving a high-control group.
• The importance of free thinking and questioning belief systems.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] What Defines a Cult? – The key signs of manipulation and control

[02:13] Paul’s Early Years – A search for meaning leads to a radical decision

[09:35] Joining the Children of God – The moment that changed his life

[19:51] Life Inside the Cult – Daily routines, rules, and the role of literature

[33:54] Cracks in the Foundation – Questioning the leader and the first doubts

[42:32] The Turning Point – Jonestown, propaganda, and waking up

[49:03] Escaping and Rebuilding – The emotional toll of leaving

[56:14] What is True Freedom? – Faith, belief, and critical thinking

[01:12:02] Final Reflections – Lessons from Paul’s journey

Connect with Paul Cooke:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-cooke-7a6805a/ 
• Website: https://pauldavidcooke.com/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/PaulDavidCooke/ 

Follow Les Raymond on Social:

• Mindful Movement Website: https://www.themindfulmovement.com/ 

Resources Mentioned for Mindful Movement

Find more engaging content from the Mindful Movement team on these YouTube channels:

• @TheMindfulMovement 
• @TheMindfulMovementinMotion 
• @TheMindfulMovementKids 

#Mindfulness #CultSurvivor #Freedom #CriticalThinking #BeliefSystem #SelfDiscovery #Healing

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In challenging and uncertain times, building emotional resilience is more important than ever. This quality can be thought of as the ability to respond to stressful experiences with a level of calmness and clarity. Emotional resilience makes you more likely to not be rattled and thrown off the track of your desired way of living. Today’s meditation will help cultivate the powerful quality of emotional resilience.

Meditation was written by Les Raymond and read by Sara Raymond

Music: Celestial Light by Christopher Lloyd Clarke from www.enlightenedaudio.com

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Eager for a change in your life but unsure where to begin?

Grab your chance to uncover Inner Wisdom & Transform Your Life: 

https://bit.ly/You-Are-Not-Broken-Book-Link

---------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Mindful Movement Podcast, Les Raymond talks with George Thompson, a filmmaker, movement teacher, and mindfulness advocate, about the intersection of movement, consciousness, and nature. They discuss how reconnecting with the body and the natural world can help cultivate inner clarity, resilience, and peace.

George shares insights from his documentary The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself, where he immerses himself in the harsh winter wilderness of Scotland to observe the intelligence of nature and reflect on human potential. They discuss how mindful movement, meditation, and stepping away from modern distractions can lead to a more balanced life.

Expect to Learn:

• The inspiration behind George’s documentary and how it reshaped his perspective on life.
• How Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation cultivate inner clarity and resilience.
• The role of consciousness in shaping our experience of reality.
• The impact of modern distractions on our ability to connect with the present moment.
• Simple movement and mindfulness practices to integrate into daily life.
• The importance of stepping back and retreating to restore balance.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

 [00:00:00] – Introduction

[00:00:38] – The Making of The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself

[00:03:37] – The Search for Meaning & Personal Growth

[00:09:29] – Understanding Consciousness & Intelligence

[00:15:36] – Materialism vs. Spirituality in Science

[00:22:51] – Finding Purpose Without Attachment

[00:28:30] – Daily Practices for Balance

[00:35:13] – The Power of Retreats

[00:41:22] – Rethinking Furniture & Movement in Daily Life

[00:46:15] – Tai Chi vs. Qi Gong: What’s the Difference?

[00:52:00] – How to Learn More from George Thompson

Connect with George Thompson:

• Balance is Possible Website: https://www.balanceispossible.com/ 
• Weekly Newsletter: https://www.balanceispossible.com/newsletter 
• Free Community: https://wayfinders.global/ 
• Tai Chi Academy: https://www.taoistwellness.online/ 
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@George-Thompson 
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@george.thompson_ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/george.thompson._/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgethompson.uk 

Follow Les Raymond on Social:

• Mindful Movement Website: https://www.themindfulmovement.com/ 

Resources Mentioned for Mindful Movement

Find more engaging content from the Mindful Movement team on these YouTube channels:

• @TheMindfulMovement 
• @TheMindfulMovementinMotion 
• @TheMindfulMovementKids 

#Mindfulness #Movement #Consciousness #TaiChi #Qigong #Meditation #Balance #Retreats #Nature

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Good morning and welcome to this new day. With an intentional morning routine, you can set the tone for a calm and positive day ahead. This short 10 minutes guided meditation practice is not only grounding and nourishing, but it also helps develop an attitude of gratitude to start your day.

Thank you for practicing with me. I hope you have a fantastic day.

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

"What you resist, persists." Practice mindfulness to acknowledge respectfully what is happening, what you are experiencing, and allow it to be what it is. Relax into that which you resist to find freedom.

Meditation written and read by Sara Raymond

---------------------------------------------

Buy Sara's New Book Here!

Please give a review and let the community know what you think!

Thanks so much for all of your support!

With gratitude,

Les and Sara

1:1 Sessions

PERSONALIZED HYPNOTHERAPY with Sara:

https://www.themindfulmovement.com/sara

---------------------------------------------

#relaxation #mindfulness #meditation

_________________________________________________________

Some of our Favorite Affiliates...

Sweat it out with an Infrared Sauna from Sunlighten

Feeling Stressed? This is one of our favorite tools to help...

The Apollo Use Discount Code: MINDFUL

Sleep Well on these Grounding Mats from Ultimate Longevity

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com
* Check out Wonderful Pistachios: https://WonderfulPistachios.com


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy