Our Mindful Nature {Formerly The Mindful Minute} podcast

Our Mindful Nature {Formerly The Mindful Minute}

This podcast explores the deep connection between the land and Self through nature-based meditations and contemplative experiences that invite us back into belonging - to each other, our ancestors, the earth, and all beings that make up this universe. Our Mindful Nature is the new name of The Mindful Minute podcast. I {Meryl} have been sharing meditation classes on this podcast for more than 8 years, and as of 2024, I felt it was time to update the name to more accurately reflect the content I share. You can continue to expect inspirational talks, guided meditations and occasional interviews. You can continue to expect classes centered on accessible, equitable, communal well-being primarily through nature-based meditations created through the lens of Tantric meditation and Spiritual Ecology. Now, let’s grab a cup of tea, a comfy seat and settle in for today’s practice.

This podcast explores the deep connection between the land and Self through nature-based meditations and contemplative experiences that invite us back into belonging - to each other, our ancestors, the earth, and all beings that make up this universe. Our Mindful Nature is the new name of The Mindful Minute podcast. I {Meryl} have been sharing meditation classes on this podcast for more than 8 years, and as of 2024, I felt it was time to update the name to more accurately reflect the content I share. You can continue to expect inspirational talks, guided meditations and occasional interviews. You can continue to expect classes centered on accessible, equitable, communal well-being primarily through nature-based meditations created through the lens of Tantric meditation and Spiritual Ecology. Now, let’s grab a cup of tea, a comfy seat and settle in for today’s practice.

 

#300

Winter Solstice Guided Meditation; Live Retreat Recording

Today’s episode of Our Mindful Nature - a live recording of my Winter Solstice meditation retreat - is the perfect practice to welcome in the winter season. A mini meditation retreat you can do at home! The Winter Solstice is always a discussion of light and dark. Mythology abounds, as do rituals of celebration and reflection.  In this class, you will hear some of the mythology surrounding the Winter Solstice. We will explore what it means to ‘harvest the fire’ in this season; we will talk about caves, bees, fire and honey.  At the end, you will experience a longer, guided meditation that takes you through a reflection of the year and an inquiry into what is to come next in 2025. You can use this as a time to set intentions for the season or the new year. So grab your tea, light your fire, and settle in as we welcome Winter.  In this episode, you hear: ---The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper ---Wintering by Sylvia Plath ---Sounds of the natural world recorded by Nick McMahan I hope you enjoy! This is the last episode of 2024. We will back in 2025 with all new episodes, guests and practices to share ❄️ ... Read more

19 Dec 2024

27 MINS

27:56

19 Dec 2024


#299

Winter Sleep Meditation: Held in the Womb of the Earth

A winter sleep meditation for you today, dear listeners! As we slip into the darker, colder, and yet somehow busier part of the year I thought we would dedicate some class time to the richness of rest.  This episode is an invitation to get cozy, to set aside your to-do list for a few moments, and rest. You can utilize this guided meditation for ---Naptime or a mid-day reset ---Gentle guidance into evening sleep ---Support for falling back asleep if you wake in the middle of the night And listeners, I have to tell you today’s episode has my FAVORITE soundscape of the year. A soothing combination of singing bowls and elemental sounds of the natural world - I highly recommend headphones for the full listening experience. The soundscape and video for this episode are from nature field recordist Nick McMahan. So grab a blanket and a cup of tea, pop-in your headphones, and join me for today’s winter-time sleep meditation. [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s video, nature field recordings, video and sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [https://www.nickcmcmahan.com] (https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/) https://www.instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro/ Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

12 Dec 2024

15 MINS

15:08

12 Dec 2024


#298

Night Under the Stars {Winter Edition}; A Story from Glacier National Park

There is something magical about the night sky and the winter woods; a place of dreams and possibility; a place of rest and restoration. In today’s episode of Our Mindful Nature, nature field recordist Nick McMahan shares a dreamscape from Glacier National Park.  Not quite a guided meditation, not quite a sleep-story, but rather a meditative experience. A connection to both land and self. Perfect for relaxing before bed, taking a mid-day break, or adding some wintery vibes to your day.  You will hear cool wind blowing from the north towards the Eastern Rocky Mountains; the first snow dusting its peaks. Nick weaves a story of dream-images and real-life exploration of this landscape:  “Silently, I watch the dense night sky as a calm breeze washes over me, cresting like a wave through the nearby aspens. On a clear night in a remote corner of the Rockies, deep in grizzly country, I see a countless sea of stars overhead, shimmering as brightly as I’ve ever seen. Reaching into my pocket, I grab my small pair of backpacking binoculars for a closer look.” Grab your headphones, a cup of something warm, and settle in by the fire.  Rest your feet. Rest your mind. Rest your heart. Join us for a night under the stars in Glacier National Park. The nature sounds in this episode were recorded in the Eastern Rocky Mountains near the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. The Blackfeet people have lived in the Rocky Mountain region for over 10,000 years and were the first people to hear the sounds of the winter wind blowing in from the north in this region. [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s episode including narration, nature field recordings, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: nickmcmahan.com instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

05 Dec 2024

14 MINS

14:30

05 Dec 2024


#297

A Recipe for Feeling Seen: Breathing with Trees

Recently, I had a moment where I just didn’t feel seen. And later, as I was processing those feelings, I picked up James Crews’ newest book of poetry, Unlocking the Heart, and I opened to the poem, ‘The World Loves You Back’ -   It was exactly what I needed to hear.   That I/You/We are all seen for exactly who we are by the animate earth around us.  That we aren’t alone. In today’s meditation class, we explore the significance of belonging and being actively engaged in one’s environment. We delve into the idea of reciprocal relationships with the animate earth and our meditation practices, with an emphasis on the importance of active participation.  Join me for a poem, discussion and guided meditation inviting us into reciprocal breathing with the forest around us.  Thank you to Acoustic Ecologist Gordon Hempton for the use of today’s soundscape. Learn more about Gordon here: [https://soundtracker.com/about-gordon-hempton/] (https://soundtracker.com/about-gordon-hempton/)    [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

28 Nov 2024

31 MINS

31:41

28 Nov 2024


#296

A Quiet Corner Within Ourselves: Poetry, Presence and Practice with James Crews

Friends, grab a cup of tea, your coziest blanket and join me as we welcome back poet James Crews. James has been a guest on Our Mindful Nature multiple times and his thoughtful presence has become something I look forward to each year.  James and I sat down to chat about his new book 'Unlocking the Heart: Writings for Mindfulness, Courage, and Self-Compassion’ right before the November election in the U.S. Together, we reflect on life's challenging moments, the role of poetry in providing solace, and the importance of pausing and mindfulness. James shares insights into his daily practices of writing and meditation, the significance of noticing everyday wonders, and offers a poem to encourage listeners to find their own moments of wonder and peace. If you only buy one more book this year, I hope it is this one. I have picked it up daily since the election and it continues to be the balm I most need for comfort, for heartfulness, for grief, and for presence.  Learn more about James and his new book here: [https://www.jamescrews.net/] (https://www.jamescrews.net/) [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

21 Nov 2024

41 MINS

41:31

21 Nov 2024


#295

Simple Acts of Care for Anxiety, Stress, and Mental Balance + Guided Meditation

Oh y’all. If you are struggling to practice right now; I’m with you. If anxiety and overwhelm are front and center; I’m with you. If you aren’t sure you can even stand to listen to a whole podcast episode right now; I’m with you.  It is a lot. All of it.  As I thought about what might be helpful in the month of November, what felt the most resonant (at least to me) is to focus on the simplest acts of care.  This episode highlights the major teachings I’ve shared in classes and on the podcast through 2024 so far, and it teases out the most important reminders for maintaining mental health. I share a bit about a brand new PTSD treatment I got to test, tips for when meditating for 20-minutes is out of the question, and ways to care for ourselves and our loved ones in the simplest of ways. Lastly, I share a guided meditation that emphasizes simplicity and presence. May it serve all of us well <3  Sign up for my newsletter at [https://merylarnett.substack.com/ ] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting  [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (http://instagram.com/merylarnett) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (http://youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

13 Nov 2024

35 MINS

35:10

13 Nov 2024


#294

Rest as a Sacred Practice: Practical Wisdom from Rest Coach Octavia Raheem

In this episode of 'Our Mindful Nature,' I am delighted to welcome back Octavia Raheem, acclaimed author, rest coach and dear friend, to discuss her newest book, 'Rest is Sacred.' Together, we explore the significance of rest, what it means to rest, and, more importantly, what it looks like to find rest in the midst of constant “busyness”. Octavia shares insights on the various forms rest can take, from conventional yoga practices to simple mindful pauses in daily life. At the end, Octavia shares a guided exercise and reading from her book, encouraging listeners to seek restorative moments and redefine what rest means to them. Join us! Find Octavia & her new book here:  [https://www.octaviaraheem.com/rest-is-sacred] (https://www.octaviaraheem.com/rest-is-sacred) Sign up for my newsletter at https://merylarnett.substack.com/ to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting merylarnett.com instagram.com/merylarnett youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature ... Read more

07 Nov 2024

31 MINS

31:48

07 Nov 2024


#293

The Middle Way: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Chaos | Guided Meditation

“If one sees two women sitting at a crossroads, facing one another, they are engaged in witchcraft.” - Talmud From our witch meditation series, we know that the witch archetype is truly about people who are reclaiming their personal power. And from the quote above, I love the significance of this sense of power being found in the crossroads; the intersections. It reminds me of one of my favorite teachings in Buddhist psychology - known as The Middle Way. In the teachings of The Middle Way, we learn to embrace tension and paradox. Rather than waiting for the resolution, we become skillful at residing in the middle of it all… “Of course we can always imagine more perfect conditions, how it should be ideally, how everyone else should behave. But it’s not our task to create an ideal. It’s our task to see how it is, and to learn from the world as it is. For the awakening of the heart, conditions are always good enough.” - Ajahn Sumedo Join me for today’s discussion and guided meditation centered on the power we find while resting in the middle. Sign up for my newsletter at [https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: nickmcmahan.com [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting merylarnett.com [instagram.com/merylarnett] (http://instagram.com/merylarnett) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (http://youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

31 Oct 2024

37 MINS

37:30

31 Oct 2024


#292

Just The Meditation: Grounding Techniques from the Forest {Green Witch}

A meditation for your daily practice - no chat beforehand, no distractions. Just you, the forest, and your breath. Join me for this Green Witch-inspired meditation. Sign up for my newsletter at [https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [nickmcmahan.com] (nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [merylarnett.com] (merylarnett.com) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (http://instagram.com/merylarnett) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (http://youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

24 Oct 2024

21 MINS

21:44

24 Oct 2024


#291

Moon Cycles and Ocean Waves: A Water Witch's Guide to Natural Rhythms

In this episode, we continue our exploration of personal power through the archetypes of the witch. Together, we will journey through the Water Witch and the Swamp Witch archetypes, uncovering their unique connections to water, the moon, and the balance between conformity and wildness. The Water Witch draws rituals from aquatic environments, emphasizing adaptability, while the Swamp Witch thrives in the liminal spaces, representing untamed freedom. Being fluid in change is the superpower of both of these witchy archetypes. At the end, there is a 20-minute guided meditation devoted to the Water Witch, inviting all of us to sync with the rhythm of our breath and metaphorical ocean waves, fostering inner peace and presence. ... Read more

17 Oct 2024

35 MINS

35:56

17 Oct 2024


#290

Grounding Techniques from the Forest: A Green Witch's Approach to Stress Relief

“You are the sister to the wolf and friend to the hawk. You know in your heart the language of the plants and the songs of the wind. You have an innate connection to the wild edges. You know the beauty of the bee in flight, and hear the call of freedom on the horizon. And yet, as you go through your day today, it may be easy to miss the drum call of the Earth.”   – Wild Woman The Green Witch is one who sources her sense of power and nourishment from the Earth itself. She is one who might feel deeply connected to plants and animals and finds balance with time outside.  The Green Witch likely spends more time than most contemplating the understanding that we are nature.  In our exploration of the earth and forest archetype, we look at reciprocal relationships with the earth as a source of power and grounding.  Join me for today’s talk and Green Witch-inspired meditation. [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s custom-crafted soundscape, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [nickmcmahan.com] (http://nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

10 Oct 2024

33 MINS

33:04

10 Oct 2024


#289

Brewing Inner Strength: Exploring the Kitchen Witch Archetype Through Meditation

Welcome, Witches. This all new meditation series is devoted to the archetype of the witch. Why, you ask? Well for starters, it is spooky season, but perhaps more importantly, because the witch archetype is especially potent for those of us grappling with reclaiming our personal power.  There are so many ‘types’ of witches: the kitchen witch, the green witch, the water witch, etc. And,all of these sub-types refer to the place or activity where we source the majority of our power.  Today’s episode is devoted to the Kitchen Witch: In ancient Greece the word for “cook”, “butcher” and “priest” was the same -‘mageiros’- and the word shares an etymological root with the word magic. – Michael Pollan The Kitchen Witch is one who finds her power in the kitchen.  ---She is deeply committed to nourishment - with a cauldron bubbling and tea brewing  ---She is drawn to family recipes connecting her to ancestors ---Her ingredients connect her to the earth element ---And perhaps most importantly, cooking on stove or hearth-fire, connects her to the alchemical power of fire.  Fire resides in the belly. It is the heat of action, of purpose, intention and passion. It is also the fire that burns the ghosts that haunt us. This fire is directly tied to the heart space, the home of air/breath/spirit, this is where our caring, compassion and love originate. For the kitchen witch, these two domains are intimately linked - our fire transforming our love - making love manifest. Join me for today’s episode devoted to the alchemy of the kitchen witch complete with a 20-minute guided kitchen witch meditation and a custom-made kitchen witch soundscape from Nick McMahan. Enjoy! [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s custom-crafted soundscape, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [nickmcmahan.com] (http://nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

03 Oct 2024

38 MINS

38:19

03 Oct 2024


#288

Beyond Mindfulness: Andrew Holecek on Advancing Your Meditation Practice

More often than I can count, I have conversations with students asking me what’s next in their meditation practice, how to go deeper, or how to feel better in the toughest of times… and today, I am delighted to share a powerful conversation offering a few answers to these tough questions. Andrew Holecek is a returning guest to the podcast, as well as a renowned author and humanitarian who teaches internationally on spirituality, meditation, lucid dreaming, and the art of dying. His many books include Reverse Meditation and Dream Yoga. And now, he has a new book out -  I’m Mindful, Now What? Moving Beyond Mindfulness to Meet the Modern World.  This book, and our discussion today, reveals how the form of mindfulness many of us know is merely one thread in a much older, greater tapestry of contemplative practice. For anyone who has sensed the potential for something much deeper and more profound - this conversation is for YOU. Andrew and I talk about:  ---Brining meditation off the cushion and into our day-to-day experiences ---Practices that move beyond simply “calming down”  ---The near enemies of practice, which include spiritual bypassing, spiritual materialism and the tricky distinction between tranquility and liberation.  ---Waking up vs. growing up ---Five nocturnal meditation practices, the value of the dream state, and the magic of liminality. ---Lastly and most importantly, we talk about why these practices matter when the world is on fire.  At the end, Andrew shares a guided meditation that he does every morning to start off his day. Join me for this inspiring conversation and practice. And listeners, I need to know - should I have Andrew come back to tell us more about these dream practices?!? There is so much richness in this practice, here is a breakout of some of the key moments: 01:32 The Five-Year Retreat Experience 04:42 Beyond Mindfulness: Deeper Practices 06:54 Shamatha and Vipashyana Explained 12:18 The Importance of Waking Down 15:48 Therapeutic and Somatic Support 18:32 Traps on the Meditative Path 24:16 Waking Up vs. Growing Up 26:48 Nocturnal Meditations 27:16 The Importance of Dreams 27:34 Polyphasic vs. Monophasic Cultures 28:16 Ego and Altered States of Consciousness 29:06 The Three-Dimensional View of Reality 31:00 The Five Nocturnal Practices 32:51 Exploring Liminal Dreaming 34:14 The Science Behind Liminal Dreaming 35:23 Observational Intent and Thought Image Amalgamation 36:37 Deconstructing the Sense of Self 42:56 The Collective Mind and Quantum Entanglement 48:44 Guided Meditation Practice Learn more about Andrew Holecek and find his new book here: [https://www.andrewholecek.com/] (https://www.andrewholecek.com/) [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

26 Sep 2024

57 MINS

57:05

26 Sep 2024


#287

Beyond the Noise: Finding Mindfulness in Oregon's Quietest Ecosystem

Today’s episode is an invitation to settle into the deepest listening and to celebrate what we find when we move beyond the noise of humans. Today, we embark on a meditative listening experience crafted by nature field recordist Nick McMahan.  Earlier this year, Nick spent several days seeking out the quietest spot in Oregon. Exploring nature’s whispers and finding serenity in the sagebrush are what inspired today’s guided audio experience - a recording of Nick’s exploration. Together, we will listen to the symphony that arises within Oregon’s quietest ecosystem. What does it mean to listen to such quiet? What can we learn in the absence of human-made noise? Grab your headphones, close your eyes, and join Nick on a journey through the Basque Hills of Oregon: High and dry. There is hardly anything here. No water, no trees, just a small two-track (dirt road where people have driven enough times to form a road, but the ground has never been graded), and a distant horizon. The terrain appears endlessly flat, but after some time walking, I cannot see my car anymore. No towns, people, highways, or aircraft. A strange silence seems to be suspended in the still air. I sit down in the sagebrush and the wind calms. Looking closer I see various small wildflowers growing in clumps, thoughtfully placed near roots and sage. I lay down. It doesn’t feel dirty here. The dusty soil is cool, almost soothing. Eyes close, it is not long before a whir of wings pass not far overhead. Quickly followed by another and a hushed chirp. Something imperceptible has shifted. There is another soft chirp. Another whir, over to the left. Then a trill. Gradually building, a mesmerizing chorus of Brewer’s sparrows and a steady drumbeat of a common poorwill in the distance weave the song of this quiet sage land. These sounds were recorded on the ancestral land of the Northern Paiute people. Today’s episode was written, recorded and edited by Nick McMahan. Nick is a nature sound recordist and photographer, seeking projects to promote a more conscious world. Learn more and check out his sound libraries by visiting: [nickmcmahan.com] (http://nickmcmahan.com) [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production, editing and social media support: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

19 Sep 2024

14 MINS

14:09

19 Sep 2024


#286

The Art of Listening: Unraveling Nature's Voice at Canaveral National Seashore

Soundscape Alchemy. Friends, what an episode I have for you today! Months ago, I took an impromptu trip to Canaveral National Seashore to visit acoustic artists Perri Lynch Howard and Gordon Hempton. Frequent collaborators on the podcast, I was ecstatic to spend a weekend practicing the art of listening with them both. We walked mangroves, explored shorelines, and discussed the interplay of human voice, aerospace traffic, and birdsong. The creative collaboration of Gordon and Perri resulted in a stunning piece of environmental art titled, “Hear Me Out.”  Join me today for a discussion of what it means to listen with honesty, to weave ourselves into the natural world we inhabit, and to move “in close proximity to lifelong love.” In this episode, Perri and Gordon delve into their experiences during their artist residency at Canaveral National Seashore through the Soundscape Field Station Artist Residency Program. The conversation highlights their collaborative project 'Hear Me Out', which investigates the changing soundscapes and their artistic interpretations influenced by the environment. They share their journey of recording, the emotional challenges faced, and how Doris Leeper's legacy inspired their work. The discussion also touches on the significance of natural sound preservation and future projects related to soundscapes and environmental art. At the end, pop in your headphones, close your eyes, and listen to “Hear Me Out.” Gordon Hempton Acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton has circled the globe three times in pursuit of the Earth’s rarest sounds. His sound portraits which record quickly vanishing natural soundscapes have been featured in People magazine and a national PBS television documentary, Vanishing Dawn Chorus, which earned him an Emmy. Hempton provides professional audio services to media producers, including Microsoft, Smithsonian, National Geographic and Discovery Channel. Recipient of awards from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Rolex Awards for Enterprise he is co-author of One Square Inch of Silence: One Man’s Quest to Preserve Quiet (Free Press/Simon & Schuster, 2010) and Founding Partner of Quiet Parks International. [https://soundtracker.com/] (https://soundtracker.com/) Perri Lynch Howard Perri Lynch Howard is a multi-disciplinary artist working in painting, drawing, installation, and sound. Her visual work and sound installations convey the passage of light, sound, and signal through landscapes on the front lines of climate change - a phenomenology of place. Howard received her BA from The Evergreen State College, BFA from the University of Washington, and MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art. Her art has a global reach through projects completed in Italy, Portugal, Brazil, Canada, the Arctic Circle, and in South India as a Fulbright Senior Research Scholar. [https://www.perrilynchhoward.com/] (https://www.perrilynchhoward.com/) Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s sound design and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [nickmcmahan.com] (http://nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Lastly, thank you to Atlantic Center for the Arts and the ACA Soundscape Field Station for making this collaboration possible. [https://atlanticcenterforthearts.org/home/soundscape-field-station/] (https://atlanticcenterforthearts.org/home/soundscape-field-station/) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@] (https://www.youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) [ourmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

12 Sep 2024

50 MINS

50:34

12 Sep 2024


#285

Hearing the Unheard: Mindful Listening in the Noisy World

In this Monday night meditation class, we delve into the concept of listening and silence amidst the constant noise of modern life, especially during the election season. Today’s discussion touches on the various sources of human-made noise and their impact on inner peace, the varied definitions of silence, and the key to mindful listening. David G. Haskell wrote, “listening opens us to what is hidden or unappreciated,” and together we will explore this hidden, unappreciated terrain. Today’s guided meditation, featuring natural sounds from the quietest place in Oregon as recorded by Nick McMahan, encourages listeners to practice deep listening, find tranquility within themselves, and hear what was previously unheard. Let’s practice! The nature sounds you hear in today’s episode are from the ancestral lands of the Northern Paiute people. Now considered the edge of the Great Basin or the Basque Hills area of southeastern Oregon. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: nickmcmahan.com [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@o] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) [urmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

05 Sep 2024

35 MINS

35:40

05 Sep 2024


#284

Eco-Poetry and Climate Hope: U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón's 'You Are Here' Project

U.S. Poet Laureate and fellow meditator Ada Limón joins me today on Our Mindful Nature to chat about her Signature Project, 'You Are Here, Poetry in Parks.'  Y’all this was a dream conversation for me - full of presence, hope and truth. Full of poetry and beauty even as we discuss climate crisis and environmental activism.  Together, we delve into the origins of ‘You Are Here: Poetry in Parks’, its deep connections between nature and poetry, and its aim to foster mindfulness and presence. Ada shares thoughts on the power of small actions amid climate crises, the inclusivity of the project's installations in national parks, and the importance of everyday nature. We also talk about the power of realizing that You. Are. Here.  “'You Are Here: Poetry in the Parks' aims to deepen our connection to nature through poetry,” said Limón. “I believe the way we respond to this crucial moment on our planet could define humanity forever. In conceiving of my signature project, I wanted something that could both praise our sacred and natural wonders and also speak the complex truths of this urgent time. Above all, this project is about rising to this moment with hope, the kind of hope that will echo outwards for years to come.”    At the end, as a mini practice, Ada reads her stunning poem Sanctuary. Ada Limón is the twenty-fourth US Poet Laureate and the author of The Hurting Kind, as well as five other collections of poems. These include The Carrying, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award and was named a finalist for the PEN/Jean Stein Book Award, and Bright Dead Things, which was named a finalist for the National Book Award, the National Book Critics Circle Award, and the Kingsley Tufts Award. Limón is a recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship, and her work has appeared in the New Yorker, the New York Times, and American Poetry Review, among others. Born and raised in California, she now lives in Lexington, Kentucky. Learn more about You Are Here: Poetry in Parks: [https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/3-6-24-poetry-in-parks.htm] (https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/3-6-24-poetry-in-parks.htm) Find Ada’s book You Are Here; Poetry in the Natural World here: [https://milkweed.org/book/you-are-here] (https://milkweed.org/book/you-are-here) The Methow people were the first people to hear the sounds of Methow Valley, Washington that are included in today’s episode.  Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings, sound design, and editing; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [nickmcmahan.com] (http://nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [ ] (http://merylarnett.com/) [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@o] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) [urmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd7MdDhJBzXxvPRdSRH4Oag) ... Read more

29 Aug 2024

32 MINS

32:17

29 Aug 2024


#283

Mini Meditation: Elemental Balancing

In this guided meditation, we explore an elemental balancing practice for anxiety management and nervous system regulation. Reflecting on personal experiences with balancing extreme temperatures and anxiety, I share a visualization and sound meditation that has been deeply supportive in my own practice. I hope it will be useful in your own practice as well! No discussion, no distraction - just the meditation for your daily practice. Enjoy! Sign up for my newsletter at [https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. Thank you to Gordon Hempton for today’s nature field recordings, to Nick McMahan for sound design, and editing, and to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: [soundtracker.com] (soundtracker.com) [nickmcmahan.com] (nickmcmahan.com) [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) Watch on YouTube, Make a donation, or learn more about my free offerings and live classes by visiting [merylarnett.com] (merylarnett.com) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (http://instagram.com/merylarnett) [youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature] (youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

22 Aug 2024

24 MINS

24:26

22 Aug 2024


#282

Nervous System Reset: An Elemental Chakra Meditation for Hot Summer Days

In this guided meditation, we explore an elemental balancing practice for anxiety management and nervous system regulation. Reflecting on personal experiences with balancing extreme temperatures and anxiety, I share a visualization and sound meditation that has been deeply supportive in my own practice. I hope it will be useful in your own practice as well!   Together, we will guide our energy to move from the root chakra to the third eye, integrated with breath work and visualizations to promote balance and cooling.  The supportive soundscape in today’s episode is a recording of a summer night in Olympic National Park from acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton. You will hear a summer breeze swirl through tall grasses while chattering birds and a distant coyote settle down for the night. In this episode: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:46 Balancing in Extreme Temperatures 01:25 Dealing with Anxiety and Imbalance 03:05 Elemental Balancing Practice 04:32 Combining Practices: Elemental Balancing and Still Lake of the Mind 07:58 Guided Meditation: Journey Through the Elements 27:56 Closing and Returning to the Present The sounds in today’s episode were recorded on the ancestral lands of eight tribes: Hoh, Jamestown S'Klallam, Lower Elwha Klallam, Makah, Port Gamble S'Klallam, Quileute, Quinault and Skokomish.  Thank you to Gordon Hempton for today’s nature field recordings, to Nick McMahan for sound design, and editing, and to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at: soundtracker.com nickmcmahan.com instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro Sign up for my newsletter at https://merylarnett.substack.com/ to receive free mini meditations each week, creative musings, and more. merylarnett.com instagram.com/merylarnett youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature ... Read more

15 Aug 2024

32 MINS

32:01

15 Aug 2024


#281

Wild Geese Getaway: A Nature-Inspired Mindfulness Meditation

7 a.m.  It’s a cool, blue morning, and we are seated alongside the Coosa River in Alabama. Our guided meditation practice begins with mindful breathing and sensory awareness. This is an opportunity for cosmic connection and deep relaxation. It is silent except for the birds’ morning chorus and a whisper of wind through the river grasses. Gradually, a family of geese make themselves known, and we are instantly reminded of Mary Oliver’s poem Wild Geese, which ends with the line -  {...} the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting — over and over announcing your place in the family of things. Today’s poetic meditation is inspired by this invitation to remember our place in the family of things, to maintain a mindful awareness of our relationship with nature, to re-weave ourselves into the animate earth around us. Join me for this 6-minute, nature-inspired meditation. Creek Native Americans were the first people to hear the sounds of the Coosa River that are played in this meditation. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at: [instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro] (http://instagram.com/brianna_podcastpro) If you enjoyed today’s episode, please [Sign up] (http://eepurl.com/dBYEUL) for my newsletter at [ https://merylarnett.substack.com/] (https://merylarnett.substack.com/) to receive free mini meditations each week. Want to support this podcast? Consider sending this episode to a friend or leaving a review. It is free and it really helps this show to grow! [merylarnett.com] (http://merylarnett.com/) [instagram.com/merylarnett] (https://www.instagram.com/merylarnett/) [youtube.com/@o] (https://www.youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) [urmindfulnature] (https://www.youtube.com/@ourmindfulnature) ... Read more

08 Aug 2024

08 MINS

08:28

08 Aug 2024