Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast

In This Special Bonus Episode From Christian Parent, Crazy World: What if the greatest gift you give your kids this Christmas is a heart of generosity—and the chance to change someone else’s world? Catherine Segars goes beyond stockings and wrapping paper to tackle one of the most pressing questions for believers during the holiday season: How do we practically teach our children the virtue of generosity, not just for the holidays, but for a lifetime—and in a way that makes a true, eternal difference? Answer: Plant seeds of generosity in your family with Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Gift Catalog, a unique way for families to give gifts that can transform lives around the globe. Browse the catalog and get involved at www.samaritanspurse.org/parent. Catherine welcomes Kristy Graham, host of the On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse podcast and wife to Edward Graham, part of the legacy family behind this renowned global relief ministry. With firsthand experience raising four children and witnessing God’s faithfulness in some of the most challenging corners of the globe, Kristy brings unmatched insight and compassion to this timely discussion. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Transformative Giving - The Samaritan's Purse Christmas Gift Catalog: Learn how families can open a new kind of catalog—one offering goats, honeybees, water filters, heart surgeries, and more—to provide desperately needed gifts to people across the globe. Real Stories, Real Impact: Kristy recounts emotional, hope-filled stories: families in Iraq whose lives are remade by a simple beehive; a mother shattered by tragedy in need of purpose and dignity, restored by a brood of baby chicks; and the power of a $9 donation to feed a hungry infant and spark the hope of the Gospel for a mother who feels forgotten. Generosity That Changes Hearts—Including Our Own: Discover practical ways to involve your kids in picking out gifts, writing cards for teachers in someone’s honor, or pairing a meaningful donation with something tangible. Biblical Parallels: Kristy and Catherine share how the work of Samaritan’s purse brings to life the stories of Ruth, who gleaned what benevolent benefactors left for those less fortunate, and Hagar, who met the God who saw her need. Seeds of the Gospel: Every gift given through Samaritan’s Purse meets physical needs—and intentionally opens doors for the life-changing message of Christ. Whether it’s a water well, a jar of honey, or a vital medical procedure, these gifts become vehicles for sharing hope and introducing recipients to the God who truly sees them. Call to Action: This Christmas, will your family give a gift that extends beyond your home?Explore life-changing opportunities at samaritanspurse.org/parent as a family, and ask your kids: “How can we be part of God’s story of hope this Christmas?”Let your generosity become a legacy of faith, planting seeds for eternity. Episode Links: Samaritan’s Purse Gift Catalog: www.samaritanspurse.org/parent On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse Podcast Catherine's Resources for Christian Parents About the guest: Kristy Graham hosts On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, a show she launched in 2019 to highlight God’s faithfulness through the ministry’s work. Each week, she brings listeners close to the stories of staff and the people they serve—always pointing hearts to Christ. From missionary doctors in Kenya to military couples in Alaska to families receiving new homes after disasters, Kristy loves witnessing Samaritan’s Purse in action. At home, she and her husband, Edward, are raising their four children in the mountains of North Carolina.   Parents, what new tradition will you start this year to show your children the joy—and eternal impact—of generosity? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What do you do when plans fall apart?When something you were counting on — a routine, a tradition, or a long-anticipated moment — suddenly doesn’t work out, it can leave you feeling disappointed, stressed, or quietly undone.In today’s episode, Bonnie shares her personal story that began with physical limitation and unexpected disappointment — and unfolded into a surprising invitation into joy she never could have planned.This episode gently explores why breaking from tradition doesn’t mean failure or loss —it may be the very care your heart needs to experience God’s presence in a fresh way. Key Takeaways: Why breaking tradition can lower stress & how God is at work How to release pressure from disappointment to renewal The science behind novelty, wonder, and emotional renewal Why engaging one of your five senses can restore joy and calm A gentle soul care practice to help you try something new this season — without pressure Breath Prayer Inhale: With God, nothing is impossibleExhale: Let it be with me according to Your wordScripture “For with God nothing will be impossible…
‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’”
Luke 1:37–38 → Register "Advent Wellness Course" to lower holiday stress with God's peace, hope, joy, and love at mysoulcareschool.com  →  Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie: Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQdFollow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is joy easy for you to give… but hard to receive?So many women pour out love, care, and celebration for everyone else —
yet when it comes to their own joy, something inside quietly shuts down.In today’s episode, Bonnie shares a tender birthday story from her own life —
a moment when receiving joy felt unsafe —
and how Jesus gently invited her into healing, delight, and emotional restoration.You’ll discover why receiving joy feels so hard for so many of us, how to reshape our nervous systems for health,
and how Jesus wants to rewrite those tender places with His love this Christmas.Through Scripture, emotional wellness insights, and a beautiful Advent soul care practice,
you’ll learn how to take steps to healing,
rewiring old beliefs, and experiencing God’s delight in a personal way. Key Takeaways: Why giving joy feels easy — but receiving joy feels risky The neuroscience of “protective inhibition” and how childhood stories shape our ability to receive love Why healing requires new emotional experiences How one simple soul care practice of chosen joy can rewire your brain toward peace & delight Breath Prayer: Inhale: You delight in me, LordExhale: Quiet me with Your loveScripture“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak…
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” — Isaiah 40:29–31 → Register "Advent Wellness Course" to lower holiday stress with God's peace, hope, joy, and love at mysoulcareschool.com →  Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayBestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQdFollow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever noticed that after pouring out love, hosting, caring, cooking, cleaning, and trying to make everything meaningful for everyone… your body suddenly crashes?In today’s episode, Bonnie unpacks the Overgiving Crash — that drained, blank, emotional dip that often hits right after big holidays and busy seasons. You’ll learn why it happens, what your body is trying to tell you, and how God gently meets you in those weary places.Bonnie also explains the cortisol dip — the biological drop that leaves you feeling tired, foggy, or flat after you’ve been “on” for days — and shares the simple soul care shift that can restore your spark as you enter the Christmas season.Learn how to help your nervous system reset… and how to let God renew your strength with tenderness and love. Key Takeaways: Why the “overgiving crash” happens after holidays and emotionally demanding seasons What a cortisol dip is — and why it leaves you feeling drained or suddenly exhausted How God restores your strength when you pause and let Him care for your tired heart The science behind anticipatory joy — and why choosing one small thing you love lifts your mood A simple soul care practice to help you reconnect with peace as the holiday season begins Breath PrayerInhale: You renew my strengthExhale: You are my hope Scripture“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak…
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” — Isaiah 40:29–31 → Register "Advent Wellness Course" to lower holiday stress with God's peace, hope, joy, and love at mysoulcareschool.com →  Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you heading into Thanksgiving feeling emotionally blah — tired, unmotivated, or just flat inside?
You’re not alone. So many women enter the holidays carrying the weight of logistics, expectations, and caring for everyone else… while their own soul quietly runs on empty.Bonnie shares her personal moment of unexpected emotional flatness — and the gentle way God invited her back into peace. It’s a reminder that even our “blah” moments can become invitations to shift our bodies out of exhaustion and stress.Discover how God meets you with tenderness, how to understand the science behind emotional “shutdown,” and how one small, life-giving soul care practice can help you feel peace and spark again — just in time for Thanksgiving.This episode will help you breathe deeper, slow down, and find your own quiet moment of restoration in the midst of a busy holiday week. Key Takeaways: Why emotional flatness is normal during high-stress seasons — and why it’s not a spiritual failure
 How God restores your soul when you feel numb, tired, or “blah”
 The Science: How holiday stress triggers emotional shutdown in the brain One soul care practice to help you feel calm, grounded, and reconnected to yourself — in just 10 minutes
 Simple ways to bring your heart a moment of peace this Thanksgiving weekend (not just everyone else’s!) Breath PrayerInhale: You lead me beside quiet watersExhale: You restore my soul Scripture“He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:2–3 →  Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store → Register "Advent Wellness Course" to lower holiday stress with God's peace, hope, joy, and love at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever feel like the pressure of the holidays only makes your heart ache more? Thanksgiving can bring out feelings of stress, grief, and loneliness, especially when life isn’t going the way we expected. But what if you could still feel thankful even in the toughest moments?In this episode, Bonnie explores how to cultivate gratitude when your heart is hurting and provides 3 powerful mindset shifts to help you find peace amidst life’s hardest moments. Take a moment to breathe in encouraging truth and practice a soul-care tip to help you connect with God’s peace this Thanksgiving. Whether you’re celebrating joy or navigating challenges, Bonnie guides you toward healing through gratitude. Tune into this episode to learn how to express your emotions honestly, embrace the power of storytelling, and how to use a simple prayer practice on God’s faithfulness to experience true thanksgiving.Key Takeaways:- Use 3 mindset shifts to boost your emotional health and spiritual wellness- Science of Expressing True Emotions: Helps release stress and nurtures gratitude.- Science of Storytelling: Lifts your spirits and strengthens your emotional bonds.- Soul Care of Psalm 105: Reflecting on God’s faithfulness through Scripture like Psalm 105 helps you cultivate lasting peace and thanksgiving. Breath Prayer:  (inhale) The nearness of God is my good (exhale) The Lord is my refuge Scriptures:  But as for me, the nearness of my God is my good. I have made the Lord God my refuge. Ps. 32:7Soul Care Tips: 3 tips to heal your hurting heart during ThanksgivingLINKS & RESOURCES-  Register now "Journaling with Jesus" Soul Care Course: https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/-  Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!-  Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K-  Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/-  Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever found yourself holding back — afraid to give your all because you might fail, grow tired, or fall short?In today’s episode, Bonnie shares a powerful story about her son — and the life-changing moment when she encouraged him to stop holding back and run free. What happened next will inspire you to trust God’s loving voice and experience the joy of living fully in how He made you.Learn how Jesus, your ultimate encourager, cheers you on in life’s hardest races — and discover the soul care practice that helps you break free from fear, engage your God-given strengths, and feel His pleasure again. Key Takeaways: Why we hold back from living fully and how God invites us to run free What it means to feel God’s pleasure in doing what He created you to love
 The Science behind the power of encouragement — and how cheering changes your brain and emotions
 The Science: One soul care step to help you experience joy again and feel motivated this week Breath Prayer:Inhale: I lay aside every weightExhale: I fix my eyes on Jesus  → Register "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to find peace, heal your heart and leave a legacy of faith.
 Register & start watching right away at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever faced a season where life changed your plans — and you weren’t sure what to do next?In today’s episode, Bonnie shares a heartfelt story about how a health limitation led her to discover beauty in an unexpected new path. You’ll be encouraged by how God meets us when our plans fall apart — and how His kindness gently guides us to try something new.Learn how Jesus, our ultimate Guide, walks beside us through every change, and discover the science behind this week's soul care practice to boost your mood, restore calm, and awaken joy. Key Takeaways:How God can surprise you with joy when life doesn’t go as plannedWhy Jesus is the ultimate Guide who leads you with kindness and careThe power of curiosity — how trying something new rewires your brain for peaceOne soul care practice to help you find renewal in this season of changeBreath Prayer:Inhale: You guide me, Lord.
Exhale: You make new paths for me. Scripture:“The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden.” — Isaiah 58:11 → Register "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to grow peace, hear your heart and leave a legacy of faith.
Start watching right away! Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayBestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQdFollow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you felt your heart heavy with all the heartbreak of violence in the world — and wondered how to find peace or what to do with all those feelings?In today’s special episode, Bonnie shares encouragement from Dan Westman, Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Peninsula Bible Church. His words offer a powerful perspective for those of us longing to understand how to respond to the cycles of violence we see — and how to steady our hearts when the world feels anything but peaceful.Bonnie also closes with a gentle, science-backed soul care practice to help you calm your emotions and restore peace to your body through small, meaningful actions that nurture connection and hope. Key Takeaways A fresh perspective on how to respond to the violence we see in the world What to do when your heart feels heavy and overwhelmed by the news How simple, calming actions — like connecting through shared experiences with others — help lower stress and regulate your nervous system One soul care practice to bring you peace instead of focusing on the world's chaos Breath PrayerInhale: There is no fear in your love, GodExhale: Your perfect love casts out fear Scripture“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.” 1 John 4:18 → Watch Dan Westman’s full message at  https://vimeo.com/1120884691?fl=pl&fe=vlDan Westman serves as the Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Peninsula Bible Church and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care at Talbot School of Theology.  → 5 stages of the "divine warrior" theme in the Bible: God Is a Warrior by Tremper Longman.  → Register "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to heal anxiety, grow peace, and leave a legacy of faith.
Starts Oct 20th! Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie: Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever hesitate to try something new because you’re afraid to get it wrong — even something that could bring you joy?In today’s episode, Bonnie shares a heartfelt story about letting go of control. You’ll discover how creative expression can calm anxiety, awaken joy, and help you connect with God’s peace in a deeper way.Learn the surprising brain-science behind why creativity soothes your nervous system and how expressing yourself freely can become an act of worship and wellness.Key Takeaways: Why the fear of “getting it wrong” keeps you stuck in stress mode The science of creativity — how it lowers anxiety and restores calm How to invite God into your creativity and let go of perfection One soul care step to try this week to lower anxiety & spark joy Breath Prayer:Inhale: I am God's masterpieceExhale: created to do his work Scripture:“We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” — Ephesians 2:10 → Register "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to heal anxiety, grow peace, and leave a legacy of faith.
Starts Oct 20th! Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayBestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever kept your feelings hidden because you thought voicing them was weakness? Or felt silenced by shame, fear, or the thought, “I shouldn’t complain”?Friend, with God, your feelings matter. In this week’s episode, Bonnie shares her powerful story of returning to what once felt like a place of silence as a child and how it became the stage where she testified to God’s healing and love.You’ll discover why hiding your feelings keeps your body stuck in stress, and how naming them becomes the doorway to peace, healing, and joy. Through scripture, science, and a simple soul care practice, Bonnie will help you release the weight of silence and draw closer to God.Key Takeaways: Why silence isn’t strength — and how God calls you to bring your whole heart to Him Turning points in Bonnie’s story: how panic attacks became peace through writing her God-stories The science: hiding emotions raises cortisol, while naming them lowers stress and releases “peace & joy” chemicals Why scripture shows us that voicing feelings — like David in the Psalms or Jesus weeping — is part of true faith A simple writing practice to help you name your feelings, remember God’s goodness, and experience peace Breath Prayer:Inhale: I will remember the deeds of the LordExhale: I will remember your miracles of long ago. Scripture:“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” — Psalm 77:11–12 → Early Bird LAST DAY Save $30! "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to heal anxiety, grow peace, and leave a legacy of faith.
 Save $30 when you register today! Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever find yourself stuck in a worry loop — replaying conversations, imagining worst-case scenarios, or circling endless what-ifs?In this week’s episode, Bonnie shares how remembering God’s goodness can break the worry loop and bring calm to your soul. You’ll also hear the science behind why positive memories help rewire the brain, and learn a soul care practice you can try this week to anchor yourself in God’s presence instead of anxiety.Key Takeaways: What the worry loop is — and why it steals your peace
 Why remembering God’s goodness calms worry and restores faith The science of “memory reconsolidation”: how recalling joy refreshes your brain and body
 How pulling out old photos can become a powerful wellness & worship practice
 The spiritual truth: you are never invisible — your story is treasured by God Breath Prayer:I
Inhale: I remember You, Lord
Exhale: You bring peace to my heart Scripture:
“On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.” – Psalm 63:6 → Early Bird Registration Open! Join Bonnie's "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" to heal anxiety, grow peace, and leave a legacy of faith.
 Save $30 when you register this week! Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Struggling with anxiety or longing for peace? In this week’s episode, Bonnie shares how writing your God-story can become a lifeline of calm, courage, and faith — and why your words matter more than you think.Through her personal testimony of journaling during a season of panic attacks, you’ll discover how expressive writing brings emotional healing, helps you see God’s fingerprints in your story, and even strengthens your legacy of faith.Key Takeaways: Why writing your God-story heals anxiety and calms your body
 Turning points you can use in Bonnie's healing journey – from panic attacks to peace and wellness The spiritual truth: your story matters to God and your wellness
 The science of expressive writing: how 15 minutes lowers stress and restores peace A simple “Your Story Matters” practice you can try this weekBreath Prayer:Inhale: My story matters to You, LordExhale: I will not keep silent.Scripture:“Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.” – Psalm 107:2 → Registration Opens! Join Bonnie's "Writing Your God-Story with Jesus" — an 8-week soul care journey to heal anxiety, grow peace, and leave a legacy of faith.
 Register today at mysoulcareschool.com → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your personal wellness assessment and learn which area of soul care you need most. Connect with Bonnie:Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayBestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQdFollow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This past week, the news has been heavy and unsettling. In the wake of tragedy and fearful headlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and weighed down by negativity. But you don’t have to stay stuck in fear. In this week’s episode, Bonnie shares how to break free from negativity’s grip and discover how God renews your mind with peace. Through scripture, science, and soul care practices, you’ll learn how to quiet the noise, recognize the small new beginnings God is planting in your life, and take one step that brings clarity, calm, and hope. Friend, you don’t need to figure out the whole picture. You just need one faithful step—and the reminder that God’s power shines through you, even in jars of clay. Key Takeaways:Why negativity bias makes painful news cling to us more than positive experiences
 How focusing on meaningful, positive action rewires your brain for peace and resilience
 What Jesus’ parable of building a tower teaches us about releasing and rebuilding with Him
 Why you are called to be Christ’s ambassador in this generation
 A simple soul care practice: take one small step toward the “tower” God is building in your life Breath Prayer:
Inhale: We have this treasure in jars of clay…
Exhale: to show this surpassing power is from God Scripture:“Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” – 2 Corinthians 4:7–9  Gen Z Leads Church Attendance Articles & Reserach:https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/09/study-gen-z-leads-church-attendance-average/https://www.barna.com/research/young-adults-lead-resurgence-in-church-attendance/ → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most.  Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy Healthy Habits with God's Promises  Register at mysoulcareschool.com Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fall is a season of change — kids head back to school, leaves begin to turn, and new routines take shape. But while transitions can be exciting, they can also stir up anxiety. What do I let go of? Where do I go next? Will God really be with me in this new land? In this week’s episode, Bonnie shares a tender story from her own life — launching one son into college, preparing another for his final years at home, and sensing God’s invitation to step into a new season for herself. Through scripture, science, and soul care, she explores how to face transitions not with fear, but with courage and peace. Friend, you don’t need the whole map. You just need one word, one small step, and the reminder that God goes ahead of you. Key Takeaways: Why transitions trigger stress in the brain (even good ones)How naming your season lowers stress and increases resilienceWhy courage doesn’t mean no fear — it means walking hand in hand with GodA personal story of breaking generational patterns and stepping into a Jubilee seasonA simple soul care practice to help you name and embrace your new seasonBreath Prayer:Inhale: You go ahead of me, Lord…Exhale: I am never alone. Scripture:“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or in dread of them, for the Lord your God is the One going with you. He will not desert you or abandon you… The Lord is the one who is going ahead of you; He will be with you. Do not fear and do not be dismayed.” – Joshua 1:6, 8  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most.  Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy Healthy Habits with God's Promises  Register at mysoulcareschool.com Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever noticed how wearing something new, or adding a pop of color, can instantly lift your mood? Science shows that what you wear isn’t just functional — it can actually change how you feel, boost your mindset, and spark renewal from the inside out.Yet many women hesitate to give themselves this kind of attention, telling themselves it’s “unnecessary” or “shallow.” But friend, nurturing yourself with beauty and refreshment is not frivolous. It’s soul care.In this final episode of our Summer Soul Glow Up series, you’ll discover the psychology of why style and color affect your emotions, how even small wardrobe refreshes can lighten your inner load, and a soul care practice to invite God’s newness into your daily life.I’ll also share a fun and meaningful story about taking my son Caleb back-to-school shopping — and how one small wardrobe refresh unexpectedly led to one of the biggest changes in his school routine.Key Takeaways: The science of enclothed cognition — how what you wear impacts your mindset Research on color therapy and why certain colors lift mood and calm stress Why giving yourself attention isn’t shallow — it’s sacred A personal story of how a simple wardrobe refresh led to a lighter load and unexpected joy A soul care practice to refresh one item this week and invite God’s newness into your lifeBreath Prayer:Inhale: You are doing a new thingExhale: You are making a wayScripture:"See, I am doing a new thing; now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Is. 43:19  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most. Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy, Healthy Habits with God's Promises  Register at mysoulcareschool.com Connect with Bonnie:Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQdJoin the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in survivor mode — just trying to get through the day, pushing past your own needs, and wondering if joy will ever really come?So many women believe they must wait until they’re “healed enough” or “whole enough” before joy is possible. But friend, joy isn’t the end result of healing. Joy is part of the healing. In this episode, you’ll discover how neuroscience and Scripture show us that even the smallest joys — a laugh, a sweet moment, or something as simple as a s’more by the fire — can begin to rewire your heart from survival into belovedness. I’ll share a tender personal story of how God used a summer evening with my kids to show me it’s never too late for joy, and how choosing joy — even in the middle of tears — is a sacred step of healing. Key Takeaways:
 Why small joys help rewire your brain out of survival mode
 How “false safety mechanisms” from trauma silence your desires — and how to break free
 Why Jesus invites you to taste joy even before you’re fully healed
 A personal story of how a simple summer night with my boys became a moment of healing joy
 A practical soul care practice to take one small joy step this week Breath Prayer:
Inhale: Those who sow in tears Exhale: will reap with shouts of joy Scripture:
“Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.” Psalm 126:6  Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy Healthy Habits with God's Promises  Register at mysoulcareschool.com  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck — when your days all start to look and feel the same? One of the hidden stressors we often overlook is emotional stagnation. When our brains aren’t being challenged with fresh experiences, our emotional well-being dips — to stress or low mood. In this special episode, I sit down with Grammy-nominated violinist and teacher Joseph Christianson to explore the soul care power of music and learning something new.  In this episode, you’ll learn:Why learning something new can help you break out of emotional stagnation and feel more joyHow music combines creativity, mindfulness, and joy to refresh your spiritA simple technique from Joseph to overcome perfectionism and embrace learning with joyA practical soul care challenge to boost your joy Breath Prayer: Inhale: I will sing a new song to youExhale: I will make music to you  Scripture: “I will sing a new song to you, O God; I will make music to you.”  Ps.144:9  Special Gift from Joseph: Try a FREE violin lesson with Joseph!  → https://www.josephviolin.com/teaching  Watch the interview with Joseph https://youtube.com/@thebonniegray?feature=shared Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy Healthy Rhythms with God's Promises Register at mysoulcareschool.com  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribeWatch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayFollow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever walked into a space and instantly felt lighter, calmer, or inspired — just because of what you saw? Beauty isn’t just decoration. Science shows that what surrounds you can change how you feel, help you break stress cycles, and even make new habits stick.Yet many Christian women hesitate to add beauty to their own lives — worrying it’s “selfish” or “unnecessary.” But friend, God designed beauty as a gift to restore your soul. It’s not extra. It’s essential.In this episode, you’ll discover how adding beauty into your space can renew your spirit and spark joy — inside and out. You’ll learn the neuroscience of why beauty matters, how visual cues can help you stick to life-giving rhythms, and a simple soul care practice to bring God’s peace and joy into your daily environment.I’ll also share a personal story of the surprising way adding color to my own bedroom has transformed my mornings — giving me a more peaceful start to the day and helping me connect more deeply with God.Key Takeaways:
   The neuroscience of how beauty lowers stress and boosts motivation
   Why visual cues are powerful triggers for building new habits
   How God uses beauty to reflect His care for you — it’s not “extra,” it’s essential
   A personal reflection on “clothing yourself with Christ” and embracing His beauty in your life 
  A practical soul care challenge to add one beauty cue to your environment this week Breath Prayer:
 Inhale: You make all things beautiful
 Exhale: in your time Scripture:
 “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
 Eccl.3:11  Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy Healthy Habits with God's Promises  Register at mysoulcareschool.com  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today’s busy, burnout-prone world, joy can feel like a luxury. But here’s a surprising truth: nearly 1 in 3 adults hasn’t shared a meal with someone outside their household in over a month. And yet, science shows that simple connection — like eating together or laughing over a board game — is one of the most powerful ways to restore our emotional well-being.In this episode, you’ll learn why joy is meant to be shared — and how God uses ordinary moments of togetherness to calm your nervous system, lift your mood, and spark healing from the inside out. You’ll discover the soul care science behind connection and the spiritual invitation to let joy back in — not someday, but now. Key Takeaways:
 The neuroscience of why shared meals reduce stress and increase connection
 How playing a board game boosts dopamine and builds joy

A grace-filled perspective on hospitality that makes it easier to invite others in
Why ordinary moments of joy are some of the most sacred A two-part soul care tip to help you glow from the inside out — no perfection needed  Breath Prayer:
Inhale: they broke bread togetherExhale: with glad and sincere heartsScripture:
“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.”
Acts 2:46 Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy, Healthy Habits with God's Promises. Register at mysoulcareschool.com FREE Calming Crochet Bonus - sign up at mysoulcareschool.com!  → Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.comGet your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most. Connect with Bonnie:  Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd  Join the Soul Care Newsletter:https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe  Watch Weekly YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Follow Bonnie on Instagram & Facebook:@thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.