Our Mindful Nature: Meditation Inspired by Nature to Soothe the Overwhelmed Mind and Ease Anxiety

Welcome to Part 3 of our Underland meditation series — the final journey into our inner depths. Over the past two weeks, we've learned to linger in uncomfortable spaces and discover gifts hidden in our shadows. Today, we complete this transformative journey by learning how to protect and preserve the wisdom we've unearthed.Inspired by ancient traditions of burying treasure for safekeeping, this episode explores how our underground consciousness can serve as both a storage place for pain AND a vault for our most precious insights. Host Meryl Arnett shares why journaling after meditation isn't just helpful — it's essential for integrating the "message of the heart" that emerges from deep practice.What You'll Learn:How to capture non-linear meditation insights and daydreamsThe ancient wisdom of "sheltering" precious discoveriesThe three-step Underland process: descend, mine value, shelter wisdomRelated Episodes: Listen to Parts 1 and 2 of the Underland series for the complete journey of descending into difficult spaces and mining value from shadow work.Journal Prompts: After your meditation, spend 2-5 minutes writing down what you saw, thought, remembered, felt, or daydreamed — even if it seems nonsensical. This is your inner treasure worth preserving.Podcast Break NoticeOur Mindful Nature will be taking a brief hiatus for the holiday season. We'll return in the new year with fresh nature-inspired practices to support your meditation journey. Thank you for being part of our mindful community — may your practice continue to flourish during this restful pause.Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

Welcome to Part 2 of our Underland meditation series. Last week we explored the underground as a place to dispose of what is harmful — trauma, secrets, and pain. This week, we venture deeper to discover the treasure, wisdom, and insight waiting for us in those shadowed spaces.Inspired by Robert Macfarlane's book Underland, this meditation uses the metaphor of underground cave exploration to guide you through narrow, uncomfortable passages toward expansive inner caverns of insight. Like Alice's journey down the rabbit hole, this practice invites chaos and uncertainty as pathways to profound self-discovery.What You'll Experience:Guided progressive relaxation from skin through fascia, muscle, and boneExtended silent meditation for deep inner explorationAmazon rainforest nature soundscapePractice softening resistance rather than fighting your experienceTools for working with difficult meditation sessionsPerfect for:Meditation practitioners ready for deeper shadow workAnyone struggling with dark or difficult meditation experiencesThose seeking self-discovery and inner wisdomPeople working through trauma or emotional healingClaustrophobic feelings in meditation or lifeRelated Episodes: Listen to Entering The Underland: Nature Meditation for Processing Fear and Underground Healing {part 1} for the complete exploration of disposing of what is harmful before mining for inner treasure.Content Warning: This episode discusses trauma, shadow work, and difficult emotions. Practice only when you feel physically and emotionally resourced to do so.Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

Not all meditation asks us to find the light; sometimes we need to explore the darkness. In this first episode of the October Underland series, meditation teacher Meryl Arnett invites you to stop running from your fears and instead turn around to face them. Inspired by Robert Macfarlane's book Underland, this episode and meditation practice explores what happens when we acknowledge the darkness, both within ourselves and in the world around us, rather than trying to escape it.If you've been feeling overwhelmed by political chaos, buried trauma, or simply the weight of difficult emotions you've pushed underground, this meditation will help you understand why staying present to discomfort is the path to genuine healing and transformation.What To ExpectUnderstanding the "underland" as both physical space (caves, burial sites) and metaphorical space (the unconscious, buried trauma)The wisdom of the Three of Swords tarot card: discovering hope at the very center of griefA guided meditation practice with immersive Amazon Rainforest soundscapes from field recordist Nick McMahanAn invitation to acknowledge what we've disposed of, buried, or hidden that needs our attentionPerfect ForAnyone feeling overwhelmed by political anxiety or helplessness in the face of global eventsMeditation practitioners ready to explore deeper, shadow work through contemplative practicePeople processing buried trauma, grief, or difficult emotionsPractitioners interested in nature-based meditation with authentic soundscapesMeditation DetailsLength: 22 minutesStyle: Guided meditation with 7-minute silent practice periodPosition: Lying down or seated (your choice)Soundscape: Amazon Rainforest field recordings by Nature Field Recordist Nick McMahanBest for: Anxiety relief, processing fear, shadow work, trauma acknowledgment, political overwhelm, deep relaxationJoin Meryl throughout October as we explore the underland: what we've disposed of (harmful thoughts and buried trauma), what we can yield (minerals and metaphors), and what we shelter (precious matter and memories).Next episode: Discover what happens when we soften enough to yield the value and wisdom hidden in our darkness.Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today’s nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

Not all meditation experiences are peaceful — and that's something we need to talk about. In this conversation, meditation teacher Meryl Arnett sits down with mindfulness trainer and trauma expert David Treleaven, PhD, author of The Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness Workbook, to explore how trauma impacts meditation and vice versa.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, dysregulated, or triggered during meditation practice, this episode will help you understand why — and give you practical tools to work with these challenging experiences.What To ExpectWhy meditation can trigger trauma responses and what to do about itThe spectrum of trauma: understanding the difference between stress, traumatic stress, and PTSDThe Window of Tolerance: a powerful framework for knowing when to lean into meditation and when to back offBeing with vs. working with: two essential approaches to meditation practicePractical regulation tools beyond traditional seated meditationPerfect ForMeditation practitioners experiencing difficulty or overwhelm in practiceYoga and meditation teachers wanting to develop trauma-informed teaching skillsMental health professionals integrating mindfulness into their workAnyone with a trauma history exploring meditationParents helping children develop emotional regulation skillsAnyone interested in understanding the intersection of meditation and mental healthFeatured GuestDavid Treleaven, PhD is a writer, educator, and trauma professional specializing in trauma-sensitive mindfulness. His work helps meditation teachers and practitioners understand how to work skillfully with trauma in contemplative practice. He's trained thousands of meditation teachers worldwide and his resources include The Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness Workbook and various online trainings.Find David at: davidtreleaven.comResources MentionedThe Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness Workbook by David TreleavenWidening the Window by Elizabeth StanleyTeachers referenced: Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, Rick HansonFree trauma-informed meditation webinar available at davidtreleaven.comJoin the ConversationHave you experienced challenges in your meditation practice? What tools help you regulate when practice becomes overwhelming? Share your experiences on social media using #meditatewithmerylDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you're experiencing trauma symptoms or mental health concerns, please consult with a qualified mental health professional.Learn more and sign up for Nature's Reflection: A Meditation and Forest Bathing Retreat happening October 23 - 26 here: https://www.hambidge.org/workshop-schedule/natures-reflection-a-meditation-and-forest-bathing-retreatSign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find her at:https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

A meditation perfect for fall - Host Meryl Arnett shares a deeply moving story of witnessing three ancient ginkgo trees releasing all their golden leaves at once—a moment so magical that families stopped their cars to stand beneath the "snow" of falling leaves. This beautiful memory becomes the foundation for a 10-minute guided meditation on the art of letting go.What You'll Experience:A gentle 10-minute meditation perfect for beginners and experienced practitionersImmersive forest soundscape with rustling leaves and peaceful bird songsTree imagery for grounding, stability, and knowing when to releaseThis practice is Perfect For:Anyone struggling with overthinking or mental loopsPeople seeking stress relief and anxiety reductionThose new to meditation looking for accessible, nature-based practicesExperienced meditators wanting seasonal inspirationAnyone feeling stuck or needing to practice release and surrenderSeasonal Reflection:This meditation is particularly powerful during autumn when nature demonstrates letting go all around us. However, the practice of releasing thoughts like falling leaves is relevant year-round for anyone seeking mental clarity and emotional freedom.About the Soundscape:Features authentic forest sounds from Emmy award-winning acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton including gentle breezes rustling through leaves and peaceful bird chatter, creating an immersive natural environment that supports deep relaxation and mindful awareness.Ready to learn the art of letting go from nature's wisest teachers? Find a comfortable seat and join Meryl for this touching meditation inspired by the magic of ginkgo trees and falling leaves.Learn more and sign up for Nature's Reflection: A Meditation and Forest Bathing Retreat happening October 23 - 26 here: https://www.hambidge.org/workshop-schedule/natures-reflection-a-meditation-and-forest-bathing-retreatSign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Gordon Hempton for today’s nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://soundtracker.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

In this third installment of the "Steadiness of Stone" series, host Meryl Arnett guides us through a fascinating exploration of time's flexible nature and how meditation reveals timeless awareness beyond our everyday linear experience.What You'll Discover:Why Einstein and modern physics prove time is relative - and how meditation shows us this truthThe difference between chronos (chronological time) and kairos (mythic, timeless moments)How dreams operate outside linear time and what this teaches us about consciousnessWhy expecting specific outcomes from meditation leads to disappointmentHow to recognize and fall into timeless states during your practiceFeatured Meditation Practice: Experience a unique circular breathing technique designed to help you step out of linear time progression and into expansive, timeless awareness. This 15-minute guided practice uses breath visualization to move from linear spine breathing to circular flow, ultimately releasing into pure presence.Key Takeaways:Meditation naturally reveals time's fluid, relative natureSome insights come as sudden knowing beyond logical progressionTimeless states can't be forced but emerge through consistent, non-expectant practiceBoth anxiety-filled and blissful meditations demonstrate time's flexibilityCircular time and loop theory suggest past and future may be illusionsPerfect For: Meditators curious about the deeper mysteries of consciousness, anyone struggling with time anxiety or meditation expectations, and those interested in how ancient wisdom aligns with modern physics.Resources Mentioned:Carlo Rovelli (Italian physicist)"Divination and Synchronicity: The Psychology of Meaningful Chance" (Jungian psychology)Poem: "The Three Oddest Words" by Wislawa SzymborskaReady to explore timeless awareness? Grab your favorite tea, find a comfortable seat, and join Meryl for this mind-expanding journey beyond the ticking clock.Learn more and sign up for Nature's Reflection: A Meditation and Forest Bathing Retreat happening October 23 - 26 here: https://www.hambidge.org/workshop-schedule/natures-reflection-a-meditation-and-forest-bathing-retreatSign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. 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:https://www.nickcmcmahan.comhttps://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.

What if your experience of time could actually shift the way you feel your anxiety?So many of us approach meditation with pressure, rules, and expectations—only to feel more overwhelmed than connected. In this episode, we explore a fresh, nature-inspired perspective on meditation that expands time, deepens your connection to the present moment, and helps you discover your personal “now.”You’ll learn how shifting your relationship to time can transform your mental health and create more resilience, even when life feels fast and chaotic.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why anxiety eases when you stop chasing the “perfect” meditation practice.How sitting still expands your personal now and builds inner resilience.A grounded, nature-inspired way to feel more connected and less overwhelmed.Listen now to step into meditation with freedom instead of pressure—and discover a deeply personal path to mental health and connection.Learn more and sign up for Nature's Reflection: A Meditation and Forest Bathing Retreat happening October 23 - 26 here: https://www.hambidge.org/workshop-schedule/natures-reflection-a-meditation-and-forest-bathing-retreatSign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.New episodes every Monday (just the meditation) and Thursday (a full meditation class).Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. 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:https://www.nickcmcmahan.comhttps://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.