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Support the podcast and keep it ad-free by visiting https://stevenwebb.uk and treating Steven to a coffee.
What would you be without your story? In this thought-provoking episode, Steven Webb explores the profound question of identity beyond the narratives we construct from our past experiences. He likens our lives to a canvas that others have painted for us, shaped by the influences of family, friends, and society. As Steven delves into the concept of ego, he encourages listeners to recognize that while our stories inform us, they do not define us. By embracing the idea of starting anew each day, we can paint our lives with fresh colors, cultivate compassion, and reduce suffering, ultimately discovering new possibilities for our identities. Join Steven as he invites you to challenge your perceptions and consider how you can reshape your own narrative.
The podcast takes an introspective turn as Steven Webb examines the question of identity through the lens of personal narrative, asking, 'Who are you without your story?' This inquiry invites listeners to explore the profound impact their life experiences and societal labels have on their sense of self. Webb likens our identities to a blank canvas, suggesting that the colors we are given—our upbringing, relationships, and societal norms—greatly influence how we paint our lives. He challenges the audience to reconsider the labels they adopt, such as their professional roles or familial identities, and how these can limit their perception of what is possible.
As the discussion unfolds, Webb delves into the nature of the ego, articulating how it is a construct that both protects and constrains us. He highlights the importance of recognizing that while our past experiences shape us, they do not have to define our futures. Through various analogies, he illustrates the potential for reinvention and the idea that individuals can choose how to express themselves in the present moment, effectively 'painting' their own life stories with intention and mindfulness. This perspective fosters a sense of possibility, encouraging listeners to embrace change and challenge the narratives that may hold them back.
Ultimately, Webb's message resonates with the idea that identity is not a static concept but rather a dynamic one that can evolve over time. By encouraging a flexible approach to self-definition, he empowers listeners to drop the weight of their stories and embrace the freedom that comes with living authentically. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that each moment presents an opportunity to redefine who we are and how we engage with the world around us.
Takeaways:
The question 'Who are you without your story?' challenges us to rethink our identities. Stories and labels we adopt often come from others, shaping our perceptions of ourselves. We can choose how to paint our life canvas, using different colors as we wish. Dropping our story doesn't mean losing our past; it means taking it less seriously. Living in the moment allows us to explore new possibilities and reduce our suffering. By recognizing that we are not our stories, we can embrace change and growth.Links referenced in this episode:
stevenwebb.uk
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Support the podcast and keep it ad-free by visiting https://stevenwebb.uk and treating Steven to a coffee.
Letting go is a challenging but essential process for finding inner peace, as discussed by Steven Webb in this episode of Stillness in the Storms. He explores the difficulty of releasing past hurts and expectations, sharing personal experiences to illustrate how deeply our minds cling to these burdens. Steven introduces a unique technique inspired by Taoism and the teachings of Alan Watts, emphasizing the importance of non-action and acceptance in the process of letting go. By comparing our attachment to feelings and thoughts to how trees naturally shed their leaves, he highlights the power of allowing things to simply fall away without resistance. Ultimately, this episode encourages listeners to embrace a mindset of doing nothing with their thoughts, fostering a sense of freedom and space to pursue what truly matters.
Takeaways:
Letting go is a process of non-action and acceptance, rather than forcing yourself to forget. When we hold onto pain, it becomes difficult to let go and move forward in life. Like trees in autumn, we can learn to release our burdens simply by allowing them to fall away. It’s human nature to hold onto expectations and past grievances, complicating our emotional well-being. Understanding that we can choose how to respond to negative thoughts can empower our peace. Practicing Wu Wei, or non-action, helps us to maintain calmness amid life's storms.
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Support the podcast and keep it ad-free by visiting https://stevenwebb.uk and treating Steven to a coffee.
In this podcast, Steven Webb explores the concept that there are no inherently positive or negative thoughts, emphasizing that while we cannot choose which thoughts arise, we can choose how we respond to them. He highlights the importance of observing our thoughts rather than getting entangled in them, suggesting that by doing so, we can significantly reduce our suffering. Drawing on personal experiences, Stephen shares how his journey through meditation and self-awareness has helped him better manage his busy mind and negative thought patterns. He encourages listeners to practice mindfulness by simply acknowledging their thoughts without judgment, allowing for a greater sense of peace and control in their lives. Join Stephen as he provides insights and tools to cultivate a calmer, more centered state of being, enabling you to navigate life's challenges with less emotional turmoil.
Takeaways:
You cannot control which thoughts arise, but you can choose how to respond to them. Understanding that thoughts are not inherently positive or negative can reduce suffering. Observing thoughts as they come allows you to detach and prevent unnecessary emotional reactions. Training your subconscious mind involves choosing to engage with thoughts that serve you best. Thoughts should be viewed as trains at a station; you can choose which ones to board. By allowing thoughts to pass without engaging them, you cultivate a more peaceful mindset.Links referenced in this episode:
stevenwebb.ukExploring the intricate relationship between our thoughts and our perception of reality, Steven Webb delves into the profound concept that thoughts, whether deemed positive or negative, are merely fleeting phenomena that do not define us. Drawing from personal experiences and a background in meditation, he articulates how the mind's primary function is to generate thoughts, much like the heart pumps blood. The true power lies not in the thoughts themselves, but in our capacity to choose whether or not to engage with them. Webb emphasizes that while we cannot control which thoughts arise, we can certainly influence how we respond to them. This pivotal distinction can lead to a significant reduction in suffering, allowing individuals to cultivate a more peaceful existence. As he shares insights gathered from his journey through paralysis and meditation, listeners are encouraged to observe their thoughts without judgment, creating space between stimulus and response, ultimately leading to a more harmonious state of mind.
Steven also introduces the metaphor of a train station to illustrate how thoughts come and go, much like trains arriving and departing. Each thought presents an opportunity for engagement, yet we are not obligated to board every train that arrives. By making conscious choices about which thoughts to follow, we can train our subconscious to present us with more of what we desire, whether that be gratitude, joy, or peace. Webb's candid storytelling, including anecdotes about his challenges, invites listeners to reframe their understanding of thought patterns, shifting away from a binary perspective of positivity and negativity. This change in viewpoint can empower individuals to navigate their mental landscapes with greater ease and clarity, fostering a sense of agency in their emotional experiences.
Through guided meditative practices, Webb encourages listeners to embrace moments of stillness as a means to observe their thoughts. By stepping back and...
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Support the podcast and keep it ad-free by visiting https://stevenwebb.uk and treating Steven to a coffee.
Join Steven Webb as he reflects on the profound moments that shape our lives, emphasizing the importance of cherishing even the smallest experiences. After a remarkable journey of 500 miles around Cornwall, Steven shares heartfelt stories and insights gained from his travels, highlighting how memories are created and stored in our minds. He encourages listeners to embrace the present, asking what gifts each moment holds, and to recognize the emotional weight of both joyful and painful experiences. Through his personal narrative, Steven illustrates how moments, whether grand or mundane, contribute to our life’s richness.
Exploring the beauty of life's moments, Steven Webb reflects on his recent journey around Cornwall, where he completed an impressive 500-mile trek despite the challenges posed by his paralysis. The podcast delves into the profound impact of memories and the significance of experiences that shape our lives. Webb shares anecdotes from his travels, highlighting heartwarming encounters with locals and the essence of community. Each moment, from the kindness of strangers to the unexpected challenges of the weather, serves as a reminder that life is a series of fleeting instances. Through his storytelling, Webb encourages listeners to embrace the present and find joy in the small, often overlooked experiences that make life extraordinary. As he navigates through personal reflections, he emphasizes the importance of perspective and the choice to focus on the positives, even amid adversity.
Links referenced in this episode:
stevenwebb.uk
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A Special Update: 500 Miles and a Heavy Heart – Philosophical Musings from the Road
Support the podcast and help keep it free for everyone by treating Steven to a coffee at stevenwebb.uk.
Episode Description:
In this heartfelt special episode, Steven Webb shares his deep reflections from the road as he reaches the halfway mark of his incredible 500-mile journey around Cornwall in his electric wheelchair. Undertaken to raise funds for the Cornwall Air Ambulance—the very service that saved his life 33 years ago—this journey is more than a physical challenge; it's a meditation on life, purpose, and the bonds we share.
Amidst the physical exhaustion and the focus required to navigate roads not designed for wheelchairs, Steven receives news of a dear friend's passing. This friend, who shared a similar life journey, prompts Steven to contemplate mortality, the value of seizing the day, and the importance of helping others. He delves into the inner dialogues we all experience—the committee of voices that either propel us forward or hold us back—and emphasizes the choice we have in which voices we listen to.
This episode is a raw and honest exploration of finding meaning in the moment, the nourishment that comes from helping others, and the simple yet profound purposes that guide us daily.
Quotes from the Episode:
"It's a celebration that we're still here. If you're listening to this, you're alive.""Try to find something in life you love. And just do that. And I don't mean in a 'find your purpose' because I think finding your one life purpose, I think that's bollocks. I think your purpose right now is if you're cold, put on a jumper."Thank you for joining Steven on this journey. Your support and understanding mean the world to him. Regular episodes and new meditations will resume soon. Until then, embrace the present, listen to the encouraging voices within, and consider how you might help someone else today.
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Support the podcast and treat Steven to a coffee: https://stevenwebb.uk
Episode SummaryIn this thought-provoking episode, Steven Webb explores the delicate balance between holding on and letting go in life. Drawing from his personal experiences, including his upcoming 500-mile journey around Cornwall in his electric wheelchair, Steven shares insights on how to navigate life's challenges with grace and flexibility.
Key PointsThe philosophy of holding things lightlyFinding balance between attachment and detachmentApplying this approach to love, dreams, goals, and frustrationsSteven's upcoming 500-mile Cornwall challenge
Quotes"If you hold love too tightly, it's like if you love a butterfly, you want to let it go and fly. If you hold it way too tight, you kill it.""Just when you hold things loosely, we allow life to be what it is, and when we allow life to be what it is, we start seeing the beauty in it."Links MentionedSteven's Cornwall 500 Challenge: https://theCornwall500.comInner Peace Meditations podcast: https://innerpeacemeditations.comInsight Timer meditations: https://insig.ht/stevenwebb
Support the ShowDuring September, all donations and "treat me to a coffee" contributions will be given to the air ambulance. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Connect with StevenWebsite: https://stevenwebb.uk
Final ThoughtsRemember, the key is to hold life gently - not so loose that you drop it, but not so tight that you miss the beauty of change. Thank you for listening, and have an amazing week!
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Seeking Nourishment vs. Happiness
In this thought-provoking episode, host Steven Webb explores the crucial difference between seeking happiness and seeking nourishment in our lives.
Support the podcast and access the new Stillness in the Storms course (currently 50% off with code 50FOR10) at https://stevenwebb.uk
Key Points:The potential pitfalls of constantly pursuing happinessWhy nourishment might be a more fulfilling goalAnalogies to illustrate the difference:Different types of friendshipsFireworks vs. gardeningThe glass half-full/half-empty perspectiveThe long-term benefits of nourishing activities like meditationHow to assess your daily activities: "Will what I'm currently doing benefit me when it's over?"
Quotes:"Nourishment isn't about feeling better than what we are, especially in the given moment. But the rewards are great."
"Seek nourishment, not happiness. Enjoy the happiness, enjoy the experiences... But don't expect those things to be healthy and to nourish you in a way that improves your life because they will not improve your life. They only improve your life temporarily."
Final Thoughts:Steven encourages listeners to balance temporary happiness with activities that provide long-term nourishment for a more fulfilling life.
Support the Podcast:Thank you to this week's supporters: Kelly Blackwell, Pat, Mark Kananda, Caroline, and anonymous donors.
Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share if you found this episode valuable!
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Support the Podcast: Keep "Stillness in the Storms" free and ad-free by treating Steven to a coffee at https://stevenwebb.uk. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Episode Description: In this enlightening episode, Steven Webb discusses the importance of simplifying our lives and returning to the core teachings of mindfulness. He shares personal insights on overcoming mental clutter, the power of being present, and how to find peace amidst life's complexities. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or simply seeking a moment of clarity, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you reconnect with your inner calm.
Inner Peace Meditations: Don't forget to check out Steven's other podcast, "Inner Peace Meditations," for guided sessions to enhance your mindfulness practice. Find the link at https://stevenwebb.uk.
Featured Meditation: Access the simplified guided meditation mentioned in this episode here: [Insert direct link to the meditation]
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This episode is shorter than usual, offering brief mindful or wisdom moments for those times when you can't listen to the entire podcast.
For links, contact information, or to support the podcast, visit: https://stevenwebb.uk
In this episode of Stillness in the Storms, I remind you that your body knows best.
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Amae - The Art of Surrender and Finding True Strength
Welcome to another episode of Stillness in the Storms podcast. I'm Steven Webb, and today, we delve into the fascinating Japanese concept of Amae – the comforting feeling of being able to surrender completely and rely on someone else in perfect safety.
For more insights and to receive my weekly calm newsletter, head over to stevenwebb.uk. Your support through reviews and donations makes a huge difference. Thank you!
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Welcome to Episode 122 of Stillness in the Storms! In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of asking the right questions to cut through anxiety and find clarity. Inspired by a poignant moment from Will Young's experience with the Samaritans, we explore how deep, meaningful questions can help us navigate life's challenges and uncover profound insights.
You can support the show and access links to my other podcast, Inner Peace Meditations, at stevenwebb.uk. Feel free to reach out and contact me through the website as well.
Memorable Quotes"Are you tired of life or are you tired of your anxiety?" - Will Young's Samaritan"The power of the question is more important than the actual answer.""It's not about turning a question from negative to positive; it's about deepening the question."
Thought-Provoking QuestionsCommon Questions and Their Deeper Alternatives:
Common: How are you feeling?Deeper: What are you really feeling now and why?Common: What do you do for a living?Deeper: Who are you beyond the roles and titles you hold in life?Common: Why is this happening to me?Deeper: What can I learn from this situation? How can it help me grow?Common: What if I fail?Deeper: What would I do if I knew I couldn’t fail? How can I take the next step towards that today?Common: How can I get through this?Deeper: What strengths and resources do I already possess to help me navigate this challenge?Common: When will things get better?Deeper: What can I do today to create a smaller moment of peace and joy?
About Steven Webb and Stillness in the StormsI'm Steven Webb, a meditation and mindfulness teacher dedicated to helping you find inner peace in difficult times. After becoming a C5 complete tetraplegic following a diving accident at 18, I turned to Zen Buddhism and mindfulness to navigate life's challenges. My mission is to share these insights through my podcasts, including Stillness in the Storms and Inner Peace Meditations.
In Stillness in the Storms, we explore practical ways to find calm and clarity amidst life's chaos. Each episode is designed to offer you tools, reflections, and the encouragement to live a more peaceful and mindful life.
Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast. Remember, the right question can open the door to deeper understanding and transformation.
For more information and to support the podcast, visit stevenwebb.uk.
Take care and keep asking those powerful questions.
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Show links: Stillness in the Storms course by Steven Webb (50% off voucher first 50 only - 50FOR50SITSC) - https://stevenwebb.com/stillness-course
Support the show all my other links: https://stevenwebb.uk/
Welcome to "Stillness in the Storms," the podcast where we delve into the quieter moments of life to uncover their vast potential for personal growth and inner peace. In today's episode, we explore a topic that touches all of us but is often misunderstood: the profound gifts of solitude and loneliness. Join your host, Steven Webb, as he shares his transformative journey from the pangs of loneliness to the peaceful embrace of solitude. If you've ever felt alone in a crowd or sought meaningful connection in a busy world, this episode will reveal how these experiences are not just common but crucial pathways to deeper self-understanding and lasting tranquility.
Support the Show:
Your support keeps "Stillness in the Storms" thriving and helps us bring more insightful content to you each week. If today's episode resonates with you, consider supporting our work. As a special thank you, we're offering a 50% discount on the "Stillness in the Storms" course. This course is designed to build your resilience and help you find inner peace, even during the most challenging times. [Insert Link and Code Here]
Key Quotes from the Episode:
"The journey from loneliness to solitude is about discovering the companionship of your own soul.""Solitude isn't the absence of noise; it's the presence of an inward harmony.""Embracing loneliness can be the first step towards building a deeper, more meaningful connection with yourself and others."Closing Thoughts:
Today's exploration of solitude and loneliness is more than just a conversation; it's an invitation to reframe these experiences as opportunities for profound personal growth. Remember, it's not about escaping from the world but about deepening your engagement with it on your terms.
About Your Host:
Steven Webb is not just the voice behind the podcast but a dedicated meditation teacher and resilience expert who has helped millions find peace in their lives. With over 30 years of experience navigating life's storms as a quadriplegic, Steven brings unique insights and profound wisdom to his listeners worldwide.
Thank you for joining us on "Stillness in the Storms." If today's episode inspired you, please share it with someone who might benefit from its message. Together, we can spread peace one heart at a time.
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My new course to help you find inner peace when you need it most: Stillness in the Storms course by Steven Webb (50% off voucher first 50 only - 50FOR50SITSC) - https://stevenwebb.com/stillness-course
Are you constantly searching for your big life purpose, but feeling frustrated and empty? Discover the secret to finding purpose in the present moment and unlock a life of genuine meaning and joy.
Support the Show: Love what you hear? Support Stillness in the Storms and help bring more episodes like this to you. Buy me a coffee: StevenWebb.uk
About Steven Webb: Steven Webb is a seeker of inner peace and a guide to finding stillness within. After a life-altering accident, his journey of self-discovery led him to explore Buddhism and mindfulness. In this podcast, he shares his insights to help you find more peace and purpose within the chaos of daily life.
Timestamps:
[01:13] - Purpose: The Big Misunderstanding[09:47] - Find Purpose in the Everyday[16:59] - Living Every Moment with IntentionPowerful Quotes:
"If you are unable to find the truth right where you are, where else do you expect to find it?" – Dozen Zenji"Maybe your purpose isn't so big as you think it is. Maybe you don't have one life purpose… and each day is made up of loads of miracle purposes." – Steven WebbShow Description:
In the podcast Stillness in the Storms, Steven Webb delves into the complexities of living a purposeful life. He questions the traditional pursuit of a grand, elusive life purpose and instead encourages listeners to embrace the power of finding purpose within each present moment.
This podcast is perfect if you:
Struggle with feelings of aimlessness or unfulfillmentWant to find more inner peace and joy in your everyday lifeAre curious about mindfulness practices and Buddhist principlesJoin Steven on this journey of discovery and learn how to live a truly purposeful life, moment by moment.
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My new course to help you find inner peace when you need it most: Stillness in the Storms course by Steven Webb (50% off voucher first 50 only - 50FOR50SITSC) - https://stevenwebb.com/stillness-course
In this insightful episode of Stillness in the Storms, Steven Webb shares his own experiences with anxiety and panic attacks. He explores the reasons why these feelings can surface later in life and offers practical advice inspired by Buddhist and Eastern philosophies. Discover how to transform anxiety into a tool for growth and find inner peace.
Ways to Support the Show
Visit https://stevenwebb.uk to learn more about Steven's work, find resources, and support the Stillness in the Storms podcast.
Episode Highlights
Anxiety as a sign of growth and empathy: Steven discusses why anxiety can intensify as we grow older and develop deeper compassion.The body's ancient survival mechanisms: Learn how our modern lives can trigger the same fight-or-flight responses our ancestors evolved to survive.Befriending your anxiety: Steven offers Buddhist-inspired techniques to observe your anxiety without judgment and transform it into a source of insight and compassion.The importance of seeking professional help: While mindful practices can help manage anxiety, Steven emphasizes that professional help is essential for severe or persistent cases.
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My new course to help you find inner peace when you need it most: Stillness in the Storms course by Steven Webb (50% off voucher first 50 only - 50FOR50SITSC) - https://stevenwebb.com/stillness-course
Support the Podcast: Support Steven and get in touch at https://stevenwebb.uk. Your support and feedback mean the world.
00:00 Podcast host discusses meditation's impact on life.04:07 Importance of breath for relaxation and meditation.08:31 Breath is key to physical and mental well-being.10:23 Focusing on the present moment reduces anxiety.14:06 Connection to universal human experience through breathing.17:57 Embrace words’ power, alleviate suffering, find self.In this episode of Stillness in the Storms, host Steven Webb explores the profound impact of returning to your breath. He discusses the simplicity of this form of meditation and its ability to instill calmness in the body and mind. Webb shares personal experiences, from moments of stress to a time in intensive care, highlighting the power of the breath as a gateway to mindfulness. He delves into the symbolic and deeply philosophical aspects of breath, emphasizing its universal nature and connection to life itself. Join us as we delve into the significance of this simple act and its potential for deep insight and personal growth.
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🔍 Discover how Steven explores the profound impacts of understanding oneself and thriving in the depths of wisdom.
Support Steven and his work at: stevenwebb.uk
IntroductionIn this compelling episode of Stillness in the Storms, Steven Webb discusses the profound impact of embracing depth over surface-level living. He shares personal experiences and insights to shed light on the transformation that occurs when we truly get to know ourselves. Steven delves into the significance of going deeper, the ramifications of staying on the surface, and the journey towards inner peace.
02:42 - The Impact of Self-UnderstandingSteven shares how understanding his inclination for instant gratification helped him realize the root cause of his chronic lateness. Delving into his own psyche allowed him to overcome this habit, leading to a positive shift in his punctuality and overall productivity.
06:27 - Interconnectedness and Depth of the SoulWith poignant reflections, Steven discusses the interconnected nature of humanity and the significance of nurturing the caring, empathetic aspect that lies just beneath the superficial self. He highlights the importance of understanding and acknowledging our dependency on each other throughout life.
20:12 - The Power of Depth in Building Emotional IntelligenceSteven emphasizes the value of going deeper to develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and a more profound sense of purpose. He discusses the impact of truly feeling and understanding experiences rather than merely skimming the surface.
ConclusionIn essence, "Going Deeper" is an enlightening exploration into the rewards of self-discovery and empathetic understanding. By embracing depth, listeners can pave the path towards inner peace, authenticity, and a genuinely enriched human experience. Join Steven Webb on this transformative journey, and unlock the wisdom that lies beneath the surface of everyday life.
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🎙️ Join host Steven Webb on Stillness in the Storms for a mind-bending episode featuring an introspective journey into the world of the 7-year-old self.
Support the podcast https://stevenwebb.uk
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Welcome to Stillness in the Storms! In today's episode, "Rediscovering Your Inner Light," Steven Webb explores the layers of the ego and how they shape our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Join us as we journey through the concept of pure awareness and learn how to rediscover our inner light.
Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.
Treat Steven to a coffee: buymeacoffee.comSteven's links and blog: https://stevenwebb.uk/
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In this episode, host Steven Webb shares his personal journey of working on self-forgiveness and discusses the profound impact of forgiveness. He explores the steps involved in the process and encourages listeners to embark on their own journey of forgiveness. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of forgiveness on Stillness in the Storms.
You can support this podcast or send a message at https://stevenwebb.uk/
00:00 Others' actions have long-lasting consequences on us.04:07 Bullied at school, struggled with silence.06:42 Struggling with forgiving myself, but getting better.10:55 People often act without understanding consequences. Forgiveness.15:45 Imagining hospital date after impressive dive. Forgiving.17:02 Forgiveness is important. Find the gift.The Power of Forgiveness: "Not forgiving someone is like handing them poison but drinking it yourself."
— Steven Webb [00:02:19 → 00:02:24]
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This episode I'm posting on Stillness in the Storms and Inner Peace Meditations podcast because a few have reached out to me when they are struggling to close off their mind and meditate. So here is busting some myths and going over how to meditate and three of the most common types as well as giving you an experience.
As always all my links are here https://stevenwebb.uk where you can support the podcast, contact me or find links to my website or social media.
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