I'm delighted to present the very first episode of my new podcast "Echoes of Neverland - Beyond the Norm"! In "Festive Sparks: The Beginning of a Journey of Discovery", I invite you to join me on a magical journey and discover the world from new, fascinating perspectives. 

In this episode, we explore what the festive season can really mean - far removed from commercial hustle and bustle and entrenched traditions. It's about how we can use this special time of year to slow down, be grateful and consciously appreciate the small pleasures in life.

Unconventional holidays: community and joy

A central point of this episode is the story about my family's unconventional Christmas celebrations. Instead of strict family traditions or hectic visits to shopping centers, my parents - affectionately referred to as "hippies" - always framed the holidays as a time of open gathering. Our house was a place where friends and acquaintances were always welcome. We children played and laughed around the Christmas tree while the adults cooked together, told stories and enjoyed the company. I have carried this warm and informal way of celebrating the holidays into my own adult life.

Today, we invite friends who would otherwise be alone and celebrate together as one big, extended family. It's wonderful to see how friendships develop into real family bonds and how shared memories unite us all. This tradition of focusing on the essentials - time together, experiences and joy - also shapes my personal philosophy.

Mindfulness and the little things in life

Another highlight of this episode is a guided mindfulness exercise to help you appreciate the presence of your loved ones and consciously experience the small joys of life. Imagine yourself in a peaceful wintry place, wrapped in a warm blanket as the snow gently falls outside. These moments of stillness and reflection are like lighthouses that show us the way and help us to find inner peace and tranquillity.

In this exercise, we focus on the breath and remember the moments of the year for which we are grateful. It is an invitation to pause and appreciate the beauty of life - be it the laughter of friends, the hug of a loved one or the small miracles of everyday life. These reflections should help you to start the Christmas season and the coming year with a heart full of gratitude and joy.

Curious?

If you want to dive deeper into these topics and learn more about unconventional holidays, mindfulness and the small pleasures in life, then be sure to listen to the first episode of "Echoes of Neverland - Beyond the Norm". This episode is the prelude to a journey of discovery, inspiration and new perspectives. I look forward to sharing these adventures with you!