Stillness in the Storms

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukMeditation that goes with this podcast: A Dharma Meditation Beyond OverthinkingOverthinking Is Not Your Fault (But Here's How to Stop)In this episode of 'Stillness in the Storms', host Steven Webb explores the concept that we are not our thoughts. He discusses how thoughts arise from the subconscious mind and how we can learn to observe them without attachment. Through personal anecdotes and insights into meditation, he emphasizes the importance of awareness in managing overthinking and anxiety. The episode encourages listeners to become observers of their thoughts and to choose which thoughts to engage with, ultimately leading to a more peaceful and mindful existence.TakeawaysYou are not your thoughts; you have thoughts, but they do not define you.The subconscious mind generates thoughts that can be observed without attachment.Meditation helps in recognizing the distinction between thoughts and awareness.Negative thoughts are a natural part of human experience and survival.Choosing which thoughts to engage with can change your mental trajectory.Awareness of thoughts allows for greater control over emotional responses.Thoughts often originate from external influences, not just personal experiences.You can smile at your thoughts and not take them seriously.The journey to awareness often involves exploring different spiritual practices.Your subconscious mind is designed to support you and bring forth thoughts that align with your desires.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukEpisode 147: The Truth About Anxiety & Imposter SyndromeWelcome to Stillness in the Storms with your host, Steven Webb. In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Steven tackles two of the most common yet misunderstood challenges: anxiety and imposter syndrome.He argues that these feelings themselves are not the problem. The real issue? Our belief that we shouldn't be experiencing them. Steven shares his own vulnerable journey, from council meetings feeling unqualified, to navigating high-pressure Q&A panels, and the everyday internal dialogues that come with stepping up.Key Themes & Takeaways:Reframing the "Problem": Anxiety and imposter syndrome are natural human experiences, not flaws to be eradicated. The real struggle comes from resisting them.The Power of Listening (Not Obeying): Our minds are full of voices – some fearful, some critical, some brave. The skill is in acknowledging them all, like a chairperson listening to a committee, without letting any single voice dictate your actions.Authenticity in Vulnerability: Sharing your doubts and fears doesn't make you weak; it makes you relatable and authentic. Steven would rather be in a room with people who acknowledge their imposter syndrome than those who deny it.Showing Up Anyway: True courage isn't the absence of fear, but acting despite it. Your unique 1% of knowledge or perspective might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.Personal Anecdotes of Resilience:Feeling like an outsider in professional council meetings.The "climate change conference" Q&A panel where a simple, honest answer resonated most.Being a charity trustee (Community Energy Plus) and doubting his contribution.The internal battle when asked to apply for a vice-chair role.The physical manifestations of anxiety before important events.It Doesn't Go Away, It Becomes Part of the Dialogue: These feelings may not disappear, but our relationship with them can change. They can become familiar (if sometimes annoying) companions rather than paralyzing enemies.Food for Thought:What if your anxiety and imposter syndrome are simply signals, not stop signs?How can you "chair" the committee of voices in your own head more effectively?Remember: "Confidence isn't the absence of self-doubt; it's showing up anyway."Support Stillness in the Storms:This podcast is ad-free thanks to listeners like you! If you find value in these conversations, please consider supporting the show with a donation (like buying Steven a coffee!). https://stevenwebb.uk

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukSelf-acceptance is key, and today we dive into how Zen teaches us to stop needing to fix our lives. We explore what Zen really means and how we can apply it to our daily routines without it just being some trendy catchphrase. Through this episode, we challenge the idea that our lives are broken and discuss the importance of embracing the present moment as it is. I share personal stories and insights on how Zen can help us find peace amidst chaos. So, let’s sit back, relax, and learn how to just be in our moments without the urge to change everything around us.Self acceptance is a journey we all navigate, and in this episode, Steven Webb dives deep into the concept of Zen and how it relates to our everyday lives. He shares a powerful quote: "Zen doesn't fix your life; it stops you needing to." This sets the stage for a conversation about what Zen truly means. It's not just a trendy phrase or a meme we see online; it's about embracing the present moment and realizing that life is not broken, but rather, we often feel the urge to fix things that don't need fixing. Steven invites listeners to explore how to incorporate Zen into their lives, focusing on being present and accepting ourselves as we are. He emphasizes that life is full of challenges, but rather than trying to change everything, we can learn to sit with our experiences and recognize that suffering is part of being human. By adopting a Zen mindset, we can find peace in the chaos and appreciate the beauty of the moment without the constant need for improvement.Takeaways: Zen doesn't fix your life but helps you stop needing to fix it. Being present in the moment allows you to accept life as it is right now. The desire to always fix things can lead to never-ending dissatisfaction in life. Happiness is not an achievement but an experience that happens in the mundane.

We’re diving into the idea of our circles of acceptance today. How big is your circle of love and understanding? I’ve been thinking about how our perspectives change as we grow up, from a tiny circle in childhood to something much larger as adults. It’s fascinating to look at how our circles can expand or contract based on our experiences and feelings. I’ll be sharing some insights on this journey and how it affects our relationships with ourselves and others. Plus, I've got a guided meditation coming up that’ll help us explore these circles even more. Let’s get into it!Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.uk🎙️ Stillness in the Storms — Episode: “How Big Is Your Circle of Love?”A heartfelt reflection on how wide your love really reaches — and how to gently grow it.🧭 What This Episode CoversHow big your circle of love, care, and acceptance really isWhy it naturally shrinks during stress and expands with growthThe six stages of ego development and how they relate to your caringHow to reflect without judgment on who is inside — or outside — your circleZen and Buddhist perspectives on expanding compassion🌀 Circle Stages — Simple BreakdownPre-Egocentric – Me as impulse (pure survival)Egocentric – Me as person (all about me)Ethnocentric – My tribe (loyalty, shared identity)Worldcentric – All humans (equal value, global empathy)Planetcentric – All beings (animals, ecosystems, future life)Kosmocentric – No separation (universal awareness, nondual)We move in and out of these stages — even in a single day. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness.🧠 Quotes That Land“Growth is always in the direction of greater wholeness and inclusion.” – Ken Wilber“Love is a state of being.” – Eckhart Tolle“If we do not transform our pain, we will most assuredly transmit it.” – Richard Rohr“Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” – Jesus (Luke 23:34)Takeaways: In this episode, we explore the different stages of our circle of acceptance and love. Understanding how to recognize and expand our circle can lead to greater empathy and compassion. The podcast emphasizes the idea that our circles of caring are not fixed and can change over time. We discuss how personal experiences, such as stress or busyness, can contract our circles of acceptance. The conversation highlights the importance of caring for not just loved ones, but also for people across the globe. We delve into deeper concepts of world centric and planet centric thinking for a broader perspective.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.uk🧘 Host:Steven Webb – Meditation Teacher & Former Mayor of Truro🌀 About This Episode:What if the key to less suffering wasn’t found in avoiding pain—but in feeling it all? In this powerful episode of Stillness in the Storms, Steven Webb explores why allowing yourself to feel deeply might be the most healing, human thing you can do.We’re often told to “stay positive” and “chin up,” but what if the real strength lies in making room for grief, sadness, loneliness, and joy alike? Steven shares personal reflections, Zen wisdom, and practical insight into how embracing every emotion can make you more whole—and more at peace.Whether you’re feeling stuck in your sadness, disconnected from joy, or overwhelmed by the ups and downs of life, this episode is an invitation to stop running and start listening... to yourself.🎧 What You’ll Learn:Why people who feel deeply often suffer less, not moreThe real meaning of emotional wholenessHow to stop identifying with your emotionsThe ego vs. the “big mind”—and why balance mattersA simple shift in language that changes how you relate to feelings✨ Takeaway:You don’t need to fix every emotion. You just need to feel it, then let it pass. That’s where peace begins.💛 Support the Podcast:If this episode moved you, consider buying Steven a coffee at stevenwebb.uk. No adverts, just real conversations—thanks to listeners like you.

☕️ Support the Show & Stay ConnectedIf this episode helps you, please consider treating me to a coffee or signing up for the Weekly Calm newsletter — it keeps the podcast ad-free and fully independent.👉 stevenwebb.uk🧘‍♂️ Episode Summary:Anger. It hits hard. Sometimes it’s in your face. Other times, it’s in your inbox. Either way, your body reacts like you’re in danger — heart racing, chest tight, maybe even shame flooding in.In this episode of Stillness in the Storms, I answer a heartfelt question from listener Toby Ross:“How do you deal with conflict when it feels unbearable?”We dive into why anger — whether it’s coming at you or rising inside you — feels so overwhelming. From a Zen perspective to real-life stories, this episode is about understanding anger, disarming it, and staying present without abandoning yourself.This one is personal, practical, and rooted in compassion — for others, and for yourself.🧩 What You’ll Hear:Why your nervous system reacts to anger like a threatHow our ancient survival wiring still runs the showThe Zen view of anger as a mirror (not an enemy)Stories about conflict, shouting, and inner shameA powerful 30-second grounding practiceWhy “toughness” isn’t strength — and stillness isn’t silence🫶 Keeping It Real – No Ads, No NoiseThanks to your support, this podcast is completely ad-free.If you’d like to help keep it that way and join our private WhatsApp group, head to:👉 stevenwebb.uk📬 Join the Weekly CalmReflections, gentle reminders, and real talk when life gets overwhelming. (Sent when it’s ready, not when it’s perfect.)🙌 Like What You Heard?Please share this episode with someone who needs it.And if you can, leave a rating or review — it helps more than you know.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukTaking little timeouts can be a powerful spiritual practice. I’m Steven Webb, and today we dive into how those forced pauses in our day can help us find inner peace, even when life feels chaotic. We often think that spirituality means lengthy meditation sessions, but it doesn’t have to be that complicated. Instead, we can use everyday moments—like waiting at a traffic light or taking a breath before a meeting—to reconnect with ourselves. Let’s explore how these simple breaks can help us manage stress and stay present, making our spiritual journey a lot more manageable and meaningful.Finding peace in a fast-paced world can be a daunting task, but it’s all about perspective. This podcast episode dives into the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh and the simple yet profound practice of taking timeouts to reconnect with ourselves. I share my own experiences, noting that while I can smile and breathe, the challenge often lies in slowing down. The message here is that spirituality can be found in the everyday moments, not just in long meditation sessions or complicated practices.Throughout our conversation, I encourage listeners to embrace the forced pauses in their daily lives, such as waiting at traffic lights or dealing with interruptions. These moments can be transformed into opportunities for mindfulness, helping us to breathe, reset, and refocus. By allowing ourselves to take these timeouts, we can cultivate a sense of calm that permeates our lives, helping us navigate the chaos with more grace and clarity.I remind everyone that the spiritual journey is not a straight line; it’s filled with ups and downs, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s about becoming more compassionate toward ourselves and recognizing that we’re all doing our best. By integrating these small moments of stillness into our day, we can create a more peaceful existence and ultimately allow ourselves to respond to life rather than react. This episode serves as a gentle nudge to appreciate the little pauses that life offers us and to use them as tools for growth and awareness.Takeaways: Thich Nhat Hanh teaches us to smile, breathe, and take things slow in life. Spiritual growth isn't just about long meditations; it's about finding peace in small moments. Using forced timeouts can help us reconnect with ourselves and find inner calm. Compassion and self-acceptance are signs that your spiritual journey is making progress. Life's ups and downs are normal; accepting this messiness is part of the journey. Each little moment of stillness helps us build a longer fuse to manage stress better.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukWhat if enlightenment isn’t about hours of meditation or decades of study, but tiny moments of awareness you can practice anywhere, anytime? After paralysis, heartbreak, and a battle with intrusive thoughts, Steven Webb discovered that awakening thrives in life’s margins—in stolen seconds between tasks, breaths during chaos, and pauses before reactions. In this episode, he shares:How to turn traffic jams, work stress, and even arguments into portals of peaceWhy 2-minute practices work better than marathon meditation sessions (and how to start)The science-backed power of "enlightened micro-moments" to rewire your brainWhy This Episode Will Help You⏱️ "Enlightenment for the time-poor" – Transform洗碗, commuting, or waiting in line into spiritual practice🧠 Neuroplasticity hack – How micro-moments of awareness compound into lasting change🚫 No altar/incense required – Stephen’s "30-second reset" for panic attacks, overwhelm, or decision fatigue💥 Breakthrough for meditation quitters – Why short bursts beat "perfect" sessions (and how to avoid self-judgment)🌱 Grow peace incrementally – Trackable daily wins vs. vague spiritual goalsKey Quotes from the Episode“You don’t need 30 minutes—steal 30 seconds. A deep breath while the microwave spins? That’s a revolution.”“I’m dyslexic, paralyzed, and once thought enlightenment was for gurus. Now I find it staring at my ceiling fan.”“An enlightened moment isn’t when you stop feeling anger—it’s the half-second where you notice you’re angry. That’s the crack where light gets in.”“Ten 2-minute practices scattered through your day? That’s 20 minutes of awareness—without sitting cross-legged once.”“I didn’t change my life in a cave. I changed it waiting for caregivers, between sips of tea, in the silence after a text notification.”

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukGratitude meditation LinkIn this episode of "Stillness in the Storms," Steven Webb reflects on the overwhelming challenges of the modern world, from global crises to personal struggles. He acknowledges the "storm" that many feel – the constant barrage of negative news, societal pressures, and personal difficulties. However, Stephen guides listeners towards finding moments of peace and gratitude amidst the chaos. He shares his own recent struggles with illness and how he's working to shift his focus from external turmoil to inner resilience.Key Quotes:"The storm feels like it's worse than ever... whether it's political, whether it's weather, or whether it's just the information bombardment.""How much of the outside storm are you bringing in?""How many open doors? How many times are you going to sit? Are you sitting outside in the storm?""It's all well and good that we can blame the world for the storms, but we've got to ask ourselves.""We also have still so much to lose, and so much to fight for. And so much to be grateful for.""If you just learn to hold them [life's challenges] in the right way, not too, not too tight, not too loose, music plays through you.""Life's got to play through us.""It's about balance.""Don't connect with the world so much that you're filling your mind with everything you can not cope with.""Close your door but don't close it so tight it's locked."How This Episode Helps Listeners:Validation: Acknowledges the widespread feeling of being overwhelmed by current events and personal struggles, offering a sense of shared experience.Perspective Shift: Encourages listeners to examine how much external negativity they are internalizing and to consciously limit their exposure to it.Gratitude Practice: Promotes a focus on gratitude for the simple things in life, highlighting what we still have to lose and appreciate, even amidst hardship.Mindfulness Reminder: Reinforces the importance of being present and finding stillness in the moment, rather than being consumed by future worries or past regrets.Practical Steps: Offers tangible actions like limiting news consumption, focusing on what's within one's control ("arm's length"), and engaging in activities that bring joy.Balance: Highlights the need for balance between engagement with the world and self-care, avoiding both excessive exposure and complete disconnection.Self-Awareness: Prompts self-reflection on personal coping mechanisms and encourages listeners to recognize when they might be overly stressed or anxious.Community: Mentions a WhatsApp support group for those who have supported the podcast, fostering a sense of connection and shared journey.Resouces: Mentions the Inner Piece Meditations, and stephenwebb.uk for further support.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukLife is all about those little moments, and I really want to dive into that today. I recently reflected on my journey, where I covered 500 miles in Cornwall using my electric wheelchair, and it hit me how my life is just a collection of moments. Yesterday, I had a powerful encounter with a paramedic from 33 years ago who helped me during a critical time, and it brought back a flood of emotions. I realized that our experiences aren’t just a straight line; they’re a bunch of moments that shape who we are. So, let’s chat about the moments that matter, how we can cherish them, and reflect on what they teach us.Reflecting on life's fleeting moments can be profound. Steven Webb shares his journey of exploring the significance of moments in our lives, particularly through his experiences over the past year. He embarked on a remarkable 500-mile journey around Cornwall using his electric wheelchair, meticulously documenting his adventures. As he revisits his diary, he realizes that life is not just a series of events, but a collection of moments that shape our existence. Each encounter, each emotion, and each experience contributes to the mosaic of our lives. During a poignant moment, he reconnects with Melvin, the paramedic who flew him to Salisbury 33 years ago, triggering a flood of emotions and reflections on how interconnected our lives can be, even across decades. Steven encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the moments that have defined them. He emphasizes that memories are stored not in a linear fashion but as emotional experiences. Whether joyful or painful, these moments teach us resilience and shape who we are. He shares personal anecdotes, like the time he walked his dog and how that experience became a lasting memory. These moments, whether big or small, can hold great significance. As the episode unfolds, Steven invites us to cherish every moment, reminding us that they are fleeting yet impactful. He urges us to embrace the good and the bad experiences alike, as they all contribute to our growth. Life is about collecting these moments, learning from them, and creating new ones that define our journey. The essence of his message is clear: every moment is a gift, and it is up to us to recognize and appreciate them as we navigate through life.Takeaways: Life is made up of moments, and those moments are what shape our experiences. When I look back at my life, I remember the moments that made me feel deeply. Collect moments that are meaningful, both good and bad, as they shape who you are. Emotions play a huge role in how we remember and store our life experiences. The universe might have a plan, and every moment could teach us something valuable. Cherish the small moments with loved ones, as they will be significant in the future.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukThis episode delves into the profound and often unspoken struggles of accepting one's disability, as host Steven Webb reflects on his personal journey and the metaphorical "elephant" in the room. He candidly shares his experiences of grappling with acceptance, the societal labels surrounding disability, and the complexities of living a life that sometimes feels disconnected from his physical reality. Steven questions whether true acceptance is possible or if avoidance is at play, exploring the paradox of living fully in the moment while wrestling with the implications of his condition. Through his reflections, he highlights the importance of recognizing and sitting with our struggles, while also acknowledging that everyone has their own "elephant" to face. This conversation invites listeners to contemplate their own challenges and the nature of acceptance, emphasizing that finding peace amidst life's turbulence is a shared human experience.In a heartfelt narrative, Steven Webb shares his personal journey of navigating life with a disability in his latest podcast episode. After a prolonged illness, he reflects on his experiences and the emotional weight of accepting his paralysis. The episode begins with a candid discussion about his health struggles and the subsequent introspection it sparked, leading to the creation of a poignant written piece. Through this piece, Steven confronts the uncomfortable reality of his condition and the societal implications of disability. He shares how relinquishing his manual wheelchair felt like an admission of defeat, a poignant moment that encapsulates the profound struggle many face in coming to terms with their identities.As he reads his writing, Steven poses thought-provoking questions about acceptance and the nature of suffering. He explores the irony that while he has built a life that appears optimistic and full, he has not fully reconciled with his disability. This tension between outward appearance and internal acceptance becomes a focal point of the discussion. Stephen encourages listeners to reflect on their own 'elephants'—the unacknowledged truths in their lives—and to consider the value of sitting with discomfort rather than fleeing from it. He emphasizes that true acceptance may not come from fighting against our realities but from recognizing and embracing them.The episode evolves into a broader philosophical discourse on the essence of suffering and the human experience. Steven articulates the idea that the desire to alleviate suffering is a fundamental aspect of life, influencing our choices and interactions. He suggests that in our quest for relief, we often overlook the beauty of simply being present with our struggles. By fostering a sense of stillness amidst life’s challenges, Steven advocates for a mindful approach to acceptance that allows for vulnerability and growth. The conversation ultimately serves as a reminder that while the path of acceptance is fraught with questions, it is also rich with opportunities for connection and understanding.Takeaways: Acceptance can be a complicated journey; sometimes it feels like avoidance instead. Living fully doesn't guarantee acceptance of one's reality; it may mask deeper struggles. The paradox of living in the moment...

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukThe exploration of the true self is a central theme in this episode, as Steven Webb delves into the elusive nature of our authentic identity beyond the ego. He discusses how the false self, shaped by our stories and experiences, often leads to suffering and disconnection from our true essence. By inviting listeners to embrace moments of stillness and awareness, Steven highlights the importance of recognizing the constant presence of our true self, which offers unconditional love and acceptance. Throughout the conversation, he shares personal anecdotes and insights on the journey of self-discovery, emphasizing that true peace and safety reside within us, waiting to be acknowledged. This episode encourages a deeper understanding of oneself and the liberation that comes from letting go of ego-driven narratives.Exploring the concept of the true self, Steven Webb guides listeners on a profound journey into understanding the essence that lies beneath the layers of ego and identity. The conversation begins with the recognition that traditional words often fail to capture the depth of this experience, as it transcends emotion and thought. Webb emphasizes the paradox of the true self being both always present yet elusive, often overshadowed by the narratives we create about ourselves. He contrasts the true self with the false self, defined by the stories and roles we adopt throughout our lives, such as being a podcast host, a city counselor, or simply Stephen. This dialogue encourages listeners to delve deeper into their consciousness, moving beyond the ego's limitations to experience a state of awareness that is tranquil, expansive, and free from desire.Webb's reflections also touch on the importance of experiencing this true self for those on a spiritual journey, particularly those who seek to alleviate suffering. He articulates that understanding the true self is crucial for realizing inner peace, as the ego often drives our pain and desires. By allowing oneself to simply be—free from the compulsion to act or react—listeners can uncover a profound sense of peace and acceptance. This state of awareness, described as non-focused yet all-encompassing, is likened to a moment of stillness where one becomes aware of everything without attachment to any particular thought or feeling. The episode culminates in a powerful poem that encapsulates these themes, inviting listeners to embrace the silence and stillness that exists beyond the chaos of the mind.The conversation is rich with insights and practical guidance for those looking to explore their inner landscape. Webb encourages a deep breath and a moment of presence, illustrating how this practice can lead to a transformative awareness. This episode not only serves as a philosophical exploration but also as a call to action for listeners to reconnect with their true selves, promoting a sense of peace that is always within reach. Ultimately, Steven Webb's contemplative approach provides a nurturing space for listeners to reflect on their identities, their desires, and the essence of who they truly are beneath the noise of everyday life.Takeaways: The true self is a place of awareness beyond our ego and narratives. Understanding the true self can lead to reduced suffering in our spiritual journey. The ego creates a story of who we think we are, but it's not...

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukThis podcast episode centers around the theme of interdependence, highlighting the importance of recognizing our reliance on others throughout life. Steven Webb expresses gratitude for the support he has received over the past year, sharing personal experiences that illustrate how moments and connections shape our lives. He reflects on his journey, emphasizing that life is about the moments we create with others rather than a linear path. The conversation touches on vulnerability and the need for community, urging listeners to embrace their dependence on one another. Ultimately, Steven's heartfelt message encourages us to appreciate the relationships that enrich our lives and to approach each other with kindness and understanding.A heartfelt reflection on the past year unfolds as Steven Webb expresses gratitude and shares profound insights about life and interdependence. He begins by contemplating the significance of marking the New Year, suggesting that our human experience is far more magical than mere calendar dates. Through personal anecdotes, including his remarkable journey of completing 500 miles in an electric wheelchair for charity, Steven emphasizes the importance of moments over milestones, highlighting how life's beauty is often found in fleeting interactions and the kindness of strangers. Steven candidly discusses his reliance on others due to his physical challenges, revealing a deeper truth about human existence: we all need each other. Whether it's seeking help to get out of bed, showering, or simply sharing experiences, the need for connection is universal. He challenges the societal stigma that comes with dependency, advocating for a mindset shift towards embracing our interdependence as a source of strength rather than weakness. This episode is a celebration of vulnerability, kindness, and the little moments that shape our lives, urging listeners to open their hearts to the help and love that surrounds them.Takeaways: Life is about moments rather than a linear journey; cherish the moments you create. Interdependence is essential; everyone relies on others for support and connection. We need to embrace vulnerability and accept help from others in our lives. Recognizing our interdependence can lead to deeper connections and understanding among people. Kindness from strangers can leave lasting impressions and create beautiful memories. Being open to receiving help allows us to foster greater community and support networks.

Links to Steven Webb's podcast and how you can support his work.Donate paypal.me/stevenwebb or Coffee stevenwebb.ukSteven's courses, podcasts and links: stevenwebb.ukThe holiday season can bring a mix of joy and complexity to our spiritual journeys, making it a time of both celebration and challenge. Steven Webb explores the difficulties of family gatherings during Christmas, highlighting how diverse emotions such as grief, joy, and stress can impact our well-being. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating compassion for ourselves and others, especially when expectations run high and disappointments loom. Drawing from his experiences and teachings from various spiritual leaders, Steven encourages listeners to embrace the moment as it is, fostering acceptance and understanding amidst the chaos. Through mindfulness and loving-kindness meditation, he offers tools to navigate this turbulent season with grace and openness.The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy and celebration, yet Steven Webb explores the underlying complexities that come with family gatherings during Christmas. In this thoughtful episode, he addresses the challenges many face, from the resurfacing of old wounds to the pressures of societal expectations for happiness. The reality is that while some may feel the thrill of holiday cheer, others may grapple with grief, loneliness, or disappointment. Webb emphasizes the importance of compassion—both for ourselves and for those around us—in navigating these mixed emotions. Drawing from various spiritual teachings, Webb encourages a mindful approach to the holiday season. He discusses the value of lowering our expectations, suggesting that by doing so, we create space for acceptance and understanding. Each family member comes with their own set of emotions and experiences, and recognizing this can lead to a more harmonious gathering. Webb's reflections highlight the necessity of acknowledging the reality of our feelings rather than forcing ourselves or others into a narrative of constant cheer. To complement his insights, Webb offers a guided meditation designed to cultivate loving-kindness, allowing listeners to find peace amidst the holiday chaos. This practice serves as a reminder that true spiritual growth lies in our ability to embrace the full spectrum of human experience—from joy to sorrow—and to extend compassion to ourselves and others during this meaningful time of year. By fostering a more inclusive and accepting atmosphere, Webb inspires listeners to approach Christmas with an open heart and a sense of connection.Takeaways: Navigating the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season requires compassion and understanding. The holiday season can amplify our emotions, making it crucial to practice loving kindness toward ourselves and others. Our spiritual journeys are less about achieving perfection and more about reducing suffering for ourselves and those around us. Expectations for Christmas often lead to disappointment; lowering these expectations can help foster acceptance. Recognizing that everyone has different experiences and feelings during Christmas can enhance our compassion. Mindfulness at Christmas means accepting the present moment, including our emotions and the dynamics around us. Links referenced in this episode:

Support the podcast and keep it ad-free by visiting https://stevenwebb.uk and treating Steven to a coffee.Vulnerability is often perceived as a weakness, but in this episode, Steven Webb reframes it as a powerful aspect of our humanity that can be embraced with courage and wisdom. He shares his personal experiences, illustrating how vulnerability is an inherent part of life, from our dependence on others from birth to the challenges we face as we age. By acknowledging our vulnerabilities, we can open ourselves to growth and connection rather than fear and isolation. Steven emphasizes the importance of recognizing the various voices within us—such as fear, courage, and wisdom—that accompany our feelings of vulnerability. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to lean into their vulnerabilities, understanding that they can coexist with strength and bravery, leading to deeper personal insights and relationships.Stephen Webb delves into the often misunderstood concept of vulnerability, arguing that it is not only a universal trait but also a vital aspect of human connection and personal growth. He begins by emphasizing that everyone experiences vulnerability, whether it be through reliance on others in infancy or facing health challenges later in life. Through his personal experiences with paralysis and the ongoing need for assistance, Stephen illustrates the depth of vulnerability and how it can foster a sense of empathy and community. He invites listeners to reflect on their own vulnerabilities, framing them as opportunities for connection rather than obstacles to overcome.A significant theme in Stephen's discussion is the dual nature of vulnerability—the state of being vulnerable and the feelings associated with it. He highlights that while we may find ourselves in vulnerable positions, we do not always have to feel vulnerable. By identifying and amplifying the voices of courage and wisdom within us, we can navigate our fears and embrace our vulnerabilities with grace. Stephen's insights prompt listeners to consider what emotional voices they allow to dominate during moments of vulnerability and how shifting this perspective can lead to empowerment and resilience.Ultimately, Stephen encourages his audience to lean into their vulnerabilities, viewing them as pathways to deeper relationships and personal transformation. He concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities as a part of their journey rather than something to shy away from. This episode serves as a poignant reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness, but rather a strength that can lead to profound growth and connection with others.Takeaways: Vulnerability is an inherent part of being human, and we all experience it. Asking for help is one of the most courageous acts of vulnerability one can demonstrate. Vulnerability can be embraced as a positive trait, leading to personal growth and connection. Recognizing the different voices within us helps us navigate feelings of vulnerability effectively. When feeling vulnerable, we should also acknowledge voices of courage and wisdom that empower us. Embracing vulnerability allows for deeper relationships and a more authentic life experience.