Peace Unplugged

A presentation to the Womens Institute

Birchington Women's Institute evening group. A live recording  on Mindfulness Meditation in early February 2025. I managed to get 45 ladies to meditate for around 20 minutes, focusing on their health and well-being and the well-being of others. Thank you to the ladies who invited me. I explain what mindfulness is and demonstrate how it works by inviting the ladies to participate. 

What are the responsibilities of councils part 2

Health and well-being is a key focus in the community.  Cllr Reece Pugh and Cllr George Kup discuss in more detail in this episode, the subject of well-being in the community and what practical steps they are using to address this. They also speak about personal wellness and issues that they are passionate about as well as personal testimony on how they find peace and well-being. 

Do I have depression?

The elements of low mood and depression along with my personal experience of it, both as a sufferer and also as a listener to assist others. This is a result of over 20 years of experience working to help others. I focus on active listening techniques, using empathy, being curious and non-judgmental, and how to be cautious about giving advice or problem-solving. Contact links are provided at the end of the recording. 

What are the responsibilities of local councils?

Health and well-being is a key focus in the community. I spoke with Cllr George Kup and Cllr Reece Pugh, who represent Birchington North as district councilors. They explain the the responsibilities, limitations and challenges of their role. They also reveal planned changes to local politics and how it is planned to improve services. There is some discussion around current issues in their Ward. This is part 1 of a 2 part podcast. 

When poetry breaks free

Poetry with Peace Unplugged, we delve into the world of poetry with the incredibly talented Lilly Howse. Hailing from Westgate, Lilly shares her journey into the realm of poetry, sparked by the emotional turbulence of her first queer relationship. Over the past two years, she has found solace and a voice through her writing, which she describes as both therapeutic and grounding.   Lilly discusses her inspirations, including the works of Rupi Kaur and local poets, and reveals her unique writing process that often captures intense emotions in the moment. We explore her creative outlets beyond poetry, including her involvement in theatre and her passion for mindfulness.    Listen as Lily reads some of her heartfelt poems, including "I See You" and "Dying Leaves," sharing the stories and emotions behind them. We also touch on the importance of community and feedback in her writing journey, as well as her aspirations for the future.    Join us for a captivating conversation that celebrates the power of words and the healing nature of poetry.     Whether you're a seasoned poet looking for inspiration or a curious listener eager to discover a new form of expression, you'll find it hear where there is a deep dive into how poetry is created from integrity, honesty and exploration of feelings and senses as well as finding new words to use for expression. 
 

Confessions of a duck!

Here is the innovative use of therapy ducks as a supportive tool for emotional well-being. This is a candid and light-hearted interview with Mark the Duckman from Rochester in Kent who visited Birchington and was flooded with people wanting to speak with him about one of his therapy ducks "Pinky". This is an example of a quirky way that joy and happiness can be brought to the population and increase conversation, connection and friendship. 

What is Autism?

Autism, neurodiversity, and the stigmas associated with it.  I'm sharing my personal experience of this condition and suggesting some solutions in how to communicate more effectively with those who have the condition. I go into detail about what is referred to as the spectrum i.e. how the condition manifests itself in many different ways. I also seek to present some possible solutions. 

Find some peace in cosmic meditation

Welcome to a Space Meditation podcast, where we explore the intersection of mindfulness and the cosmos. We'll embark on a guided meditation journey inspired by the wonders of space, from the vastness of galaxies to the intricate beauty of nebulae.
Background meditation music.
Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100393
Artist: http://incompetech.com/
 

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence. A key to productive and successful communication. I explain the key benefits of this subject and why it is beneficial to explore the topic to help achieve success. Finally, I share some inspirational words from Tolkien, Kipling, and Marianne Williamson 

How can we manage disability?

Featuring disability rights, I interview Colin Brown, a parish councilor and campaigner for disability rights in Birchington-on-Sea and the surrounding villages. He describes what motivates him and what brings him peace and satisfaction in his life while living with blindness. He describes in detail, the challenges that need to be addressed practically, such as suitable access points to shops, and businesses and navigating roads and paths.