Welcome to Calmer in 5. Thanks for taking a moment to pause with me today. There’s an energy in pity that creates distance—it places one person above another, even if unintentionally. It separates us, when what we often need most is connection and understanding. A consistent meditation practice helps us become more present, softening the urge to ju…

Welcome to Calmer in 5. I'm glad you're here. Today, we're talking about how a simple shift in perspective can ease our suffering and anxiety. Often, it’s not the events in our lives that cause distress, but how we view them. When we learn to step back and see things through a wider, more compassionate lens, we invite calm into our day, even during…

Welcome to Calmer in 5, where we take just five minutes to help you feel more at ease in your day. Today, we’re talking about something many of us do without even thinking—listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or even conversations at 2x speed. It might seem like a great way to get more done, but have you ever noticed how it actually makes you feel? I…

Welcome to Calmer in 5, where we make serenity simple—one thought at a time. Today, we’re turning our attention to someone who deserves more appreciation—your younger self. No matter what you’ve been through—joy, hardship, mistakes, or triumphs—every experience has shaped the person you are today. It’s easy to look back with regret or judgment, but…

Welcome to Calmer in 5, where we make serenity simple—one thought at a time. Today, we’re exploring a topic that can have a surprising impact on our peace of mind—cleanliness. For some, a tidy space creates a sense of calm and control, while for others, a little mess is simply part of life. Cleanliness is often seen as a virtue, something that soci…

Welcome to Calmer in 5, where we make serenity simple—one thought at a time. Today, we’re talking about something that many of us have a complicated relationship with—crying. Whether it’s seen as a sign of weakness, vulnerability, or even something to be ashamed of, society has a way of shaping how we feel about shedding tears. But what if we refra…

Welcome to Calmer in 5, where we make serenity simple—one thought at a time. Imagine yourself on a beach vacation, feeling the warmth of the sun, the gentle ocean breeze, and the ease of being fully present. Now, think about a typical workday, where the same sun shines above, yet stress and busyness seem to take center stage. The only real differen…

There are many days when you might wake up and simply slip into autopilot, not really questioning…anything. Not really looking at your life, not questioning where it’s going or what’s up ahead. Today I ask you a simple question, one that you may think you have the answer to. But before you say anything, I would encourage you to think a little deepe…

Feeling overwhelmed? Just one deep breath can bring you back to calm. In this episode of Calmer in 5, we explore the science and simplicity of deep breathing and how it can instantly reduce stress. Thom Walters breaks down why mindful breathing works, how it affects your nervous system, and the easiest techniques you can use anytime, anywhere. Whet…

We all have ideas about what we should do, or have to do. We have ideas about careers, productivity, responsibilities, etc. But did you ever think that all those things you are supposed to do aren’t real? They aren’t. Most of the things you feel you need to do are thoughts created by you and/or society. And following those directives without thinki…

Everything in our bodies and society tells us to avoid discomfort at all costs. But what if that advice isn’t the best way to grow. Hint; it isn’t. Today I share a great article by Diana Hill that talks about the benefits of leaning into discomfort; and she tells us 6 great ways to do that. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxi…

At times life seems long, and at other times it seems almost fleeting. If we perceive our lives as ending someday, what do we want to accomplish, if anything, in that time? That very question can bring up a great deal of anxiety. So why don’t we look t things from a different perspective; ask a different question. With this question answered and ex…

At one time or another, we have all become fully entrenched in our own “stufff”, our own lives. Some people exist fully on that level each day; no judgment. However, if we are to become calmer then one that will benefit us each day, is to connect with the world around us. To that end, I have created an unusual scavenger hunt that will yield incredi…

it’s human nture to see the world through our eyes; more to the point, through our biases, likes and values. But nature or not, it’s not the most serving way to interact with the world. Especially when we try to impress our likes and views on others. Do you want the premise of today’s episode? It’s real easy; you know nothing. Neither do I. We have…

Some of the greatest pain we will feel comes from distancing ourselves from the world. Think about it. So many people spend their lives trying to belong, whether it is to one person or a group. To feel connected. What if I told you that you could feel happier, less alone, if you would only seek to find connection…but not with just one person, or so…

How we see our life, creates our life. Meaning, if we see our lives as painful, sad and sorrowful, then that is how we will continue to live life. Conversely, and wonderfully, if we see life as full, loving and joyful, that too is what we will experience. So how do we know how we see the world? I have an exercise that helps with that very thing. Co…

We all have an inner dialog; a worrisome voice that points out things to be afraid of, things to feel bad about. For some people it is just a whisper, almost silent. FOr others, many others, it is booming. Today CI5 is CI20, as I talk about ways to turn down the volume of that nasty voice. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxie…

There are many days when you might wake up and simply slip into autopilot, not really questioning…anything. Not really looking at your life, not questioning where it’s going or what’s up ahead. Today I ask you a simple question, one that you may think you have the answer to. But before you say anything, I would encourage you to think a little deepe…

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m thinking many people crave silence, or at least enjoy it. I mean why would so many people like going to the beach or the woods to relax? Wherever you find silence, it’s safe to say that you find it, and not the other way around. Sure there are quieter places than others in the world, but for the most part the planet can …

Worthiness is not based on anything you will do. Is that a common belief? Not by a long shot. Society tells us there are many things we need to do to be considered worthy. But you know what I say, you are the one that defines you and everything about you. Such is the case of worthiness. Let’s talk about it. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease…

We all understand that being kljnd is viewed favorably by society. But what does that mean, if anything? As we all know, it will serve us to only acknowledge and appreciate all the aspects of ourselves as we define them, not society. So the question is, what does kndness mean to you. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety wit…

Many people turn to meditation to help them become calmer; and that’s not a bad plan. But it won’t always work without the right motivation, and it will never work the same for everyone. Let’s finish out the week talking about calm and meditation. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Tho…

This week I have been answering the top five questions people have about becoming calmer. Since a poll was too involved and would take too long, I decided to opt for everyone’s best solution; ask Chat GPT. While today’s question is a bit like Monday’s there is a little bit of nuance to it. The question? How do I stay calm in chaotic environments? L…

Today, and all this week, I have enlisted the help of Chat GPT. I wanted to answer the top questions people had about becoming calmer. Day three has us thinking about ways to become calmer with the things we do every day. Even though that list is really long, how about I tell you my top three. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of a…

Today, and all this week, I have enlisted the help of Chat GPT. I wanted to answer the top questions people had about becoming calmer. Next up? Why do I get anxious when I try to relax? Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Be a part of the s…

Today, and all this week, I have enlisted the help of Chat GPT. I wanted to answer the top questions people had about becoming calmer. For the next five days I will be answering those questions. Let’s start with…How do I calm down in stressful situations? Come listen Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Sc…

From the day we are born we are judged…and it doesn’t let up. If you don’t have a method for helping you understand your self worth, then you are bound to base your value on the myriad ratings from the people around you. The trouble is, you lose your sense of calm when your misperceived self-worth is in contrast to what value you have as decided by…

In our society we are often told to hide or disavow certain emotions; like anger, sadness or anxiety. We are encouraged to only show the parts of us that are lighter and upbeat. But what do you think happens when you mask how you are truly feeling? Not only does it become incredibly tiring, it contributes massively to our level of unrest. Let’s tal…

We definitely have the ability to make choices in our lives; to do what we feel is best. But it may be important to know that there is also something guiding us in the background. Before we even took human form, in my belief, our souls decided what they wanted to experience. So they know the destination, and they leave it up to us as to how to get …

It’s safe to say that how you start the day sets the tone for the rest of the day. So wouldn’t it be better to spend some time each morning preparing yourself for the day; calmly, I mean. That was rhetorical btw. Let me share with you how I do it. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Tho…

Our minds can hold us captive if we don’t take steps to reign them in. Today I talk about the beauty that presents itself when we take a moment to stop and bring ourselves fully into this moment. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Be a par…

It is part of who we are to want to be part of a group, to belong. All of us want to be recognized and seen. But the ways we go about that can either bring us the peace of belonging, while other ways will upset our calm and the calm of those around us. Come listen. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Sche…

Regret can be a tough pill to swallow. But it doesn’t have to be; at least not one type of regret. If there is someone (maybe many more) that you care about deeply, love. have you let them know how you feel? If not, maybe it would be a good idea. That way, in the event something happens, you won’t rue not letting them know. Let’s talk about it. Lin…

When was the last time you saw a commercial, any commercial, where the people were not smiling, laughing and having a great time? There aren’t many. It’s because we are told we should be happy; urged to always appear to be joyous. But what happens when we don’t feel that way? Let’s talk about it. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain o…

I was out for a walk the other day and felt my mind and body overcome by an alternate experience. I won’t delve into it here, but I will say that I was living in another place. The moment passed somewhat quickly but then it led me to a question…Where should I be? As you may have guessed, the answer came just as quickly. Come listen for the answer, …

How old we are is one of the oldest societal agreements we all buy into. Which each passing your, some people become depressed; wishing they were younger. Much unlike other attachments, youth is a bit more “elusive”. It’s not as attainable as a car or. big house. So why don’t we talk about ways to live outside the paradigm of aging. Come on. :0) Li…

We think that every decision we make is of our own choosing. Which is correct. But there are many aspects of you making decisions, and some of them are unknown to you…unless you listen. Today I share a story about how I was able to tune into the voice of my soul, and how you can do it too. Enjoy. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain o…

We attribute many labels to who we are. The goal is simple; to help us, and the world, understand who we are. But all those labels were assigned, and they don’t actually make up who you are. But to our point today, sometimes those labels get in the way of us experiencing a calmer, more peaceful life. Let’s talk about it. Links from the Episode: Lea…

The very essence of mindfulness is to be rooted in the present moment. But if you are so firmly attached to this moment, then how do you set goals for the future. It can be done; and today I talk about how. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) Become a super-fan …

In many cultures weekends are prized. After a long week working, the thought is…”Finally, two days to do what I want to do”. Wouldn’t it be a bit more relaxing if that same level of excitement and calm came at any time during the week? It can. Let’s talk about it. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Sched…

I’m pretty sure they are things that you are grateful for. But are there more things that you can think of? Today I share an exercise with you that will help you expand your perspective and grow your gratitude muscle. Come listen. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultat…

Unless you’re a magician, you can’t change the way things are. And yet, even with that understanding, many people create anxiety by trying to force things to be different than what they are. in those same moments, they are not just seeing it differently, they are constantly keeping that angst going by ruminating on something that is make-believe. T…

There are some heavy-duty words that could create some uneasiness. And they are not the ones you would think about. Like…Legacy, Dharma or Destiny. They seem innocuous enough, almost noble. But if we think too hard about them, or what they mean, we can get a little restless. There is a way to rethink them to become calmer. Let’s think about it. Com…

Quite simply, by understanding we are all one, you limit much angst and loneliness. But since we are all human, we are prone to forgetting our oneness. And in forgetting, we may cast judgments against other people. It’s not serving for us, so what do we do when that happens? Today I talk about one aspect of non-duality, and what to do in the event …

How do you feel when you are trying something new; before you have mastered it. If you are like most people, you are a little nervous, maybe a bit stressed. But how do you feel when you have mastered something? It doesn’t scare you, right? Well, today I talk about going through that inventory of your abilities so you can become calmer. Links from t…

Most everyone listening to this podcast has participated in a fire drill. The premise is simple, know what to do in case of emergency. Ingrain the process so deeply that you will be able to get to safety when you are in a state of panic or emergency. Sounds like a good idea. Not just for a fire or disaster, but for when stress hits. Lets talk about…

Silence and calm go hand in hand...but not always. Today I talk about determing if that is the case for you. And regardless of what the answer is, how to proceed. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consultation) Become a super-fan of ZEN commuter and Calmer in 5 and receive …

I have a feeling that if you're here at CI5 then you have a pretty good idea about how bountiful your life is. If not, then why don't we start off with Gratitude 101. It's an easy class. All you need to do is turn your attention to the multitde of gifts you have been given. They don't have to be huge gifts, like winning the lottery. How about we st…

It is probably the easiest way to add to your level of calm; having good friends you can depend on. And not just depend on, but friends who consistently add to your happiness. Today I talk about how to cultivate new friendships and still appreciate the ones you have. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Sc…

Fear can hold us back from doing what we really want to do. But maybe it’s time to talk about how to live un unapologetic life; doing what means something to you. At then end, the only one who will truly be happy or miserable is you. Links from the Episode: Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - Schedule time with Thom (Free Consul…