Podcasts
The Teen Series, Part 2: Navigating friendships
Friendships can be some of the most rewarding and challenging relationships we experience, especially during the teen years. From finding the right friends to dealing with conflict, friendships play a huge role in shaping our confidence and sense of belonging.
In this episode, we explore what makes a healthy friendship, how to handle disagreements, and ways to build strong, supportive connections.
The Teen Series, Part 1: Understanding and Managing Stress
Stress can often feel overwhelming, especially for teens juggling school, friendships, social media, and expectations. But what if stress wasn’t just a challenge to overcome, but something we can learn to manage in a way that builds resilience and confidence?
In this episode, we explore what stress really is, how it affects teens, and most importantly, how to manage it in a healthy way. Stress is a normal part of life, but having the right tools can make all the difference in how we handle challenges.
Reframing Autism and ADHD
Receiving an autism or ADHD diagnosis can often feel overwhelming, even daunting. But what if these diagnoses weren’t just challenges to overcome but opportunities to embrace unique strengths and perspectives?
In this episode, we explore how reframing autism and ADHD through a strengths-based lens can transform the way we support neurodivergent children, teens, and adults. We discuss the importance of recognising individual talents, fostering confidence, and creating inclusive environments where neurodivergent individuals can truly thrive.
Hoarding Tendencies: Understanding and Support Strategies
Hoarding tendencies in neurodivergent children and teens can be deeply misunderstood. Whether it’s holding onto seemingly insignificant objects or struggling to part with sentimental items, these behaviours often stem from underlying neurological and emotional factors. But what causes these tendencies, and how can we offer compassionate support?
In this episode, we explore the reasons behind hoarding behaviours in neurodiverse children and adolescents, from executive function challenges to emotional regulation difficulties. We also share practical, evidence-based strategies to create a supportive and structured environment that promotes confidence, independence, and well-being.
ADHD Paralysis and How to Overcome Decision-Making Struggles
ADHD paralysis can feel like an invisible barrier, preventing children and teens from making decisions, completing tasks, or even starting something they want to do. But what exactly causes this mental "freeze" and how can we help?
In this episode, we explore ADHD paralysis, what it is, how it affects executive function, and practical strategies to support neurodivergent children and teens. Whether it's simplifying choices, breaking tasks down, or creating an environment that fosters focus and calm, small changes can make a big difference.
The Science of Happiness: Simple Strategies for Lasting Well-Being
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating science of happiness. What does it truly mean to be happy, and how can we cultivate a deep sense of well-being? We’ll explore the PERMA model, a powerful framework for happiness, and uncover simple, research-backed strategies to boost your mood and mindset.
Happiness isn’t just about fleeting moments of joy; it’s about creating a life filled with meaning, connection, and fulfilment. By making small, intentional changes, you can take control of your well-being and build habits that support long-term happiness.
Happiness Chemicals: Unlocking Your Brain’s Natural Joy
In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between brain chemistry and happiness. We break down the four key happiness chemicals: dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins, and how they influence your mood, motivation, and well-being. By understanding how these chemicals work, you can take simple, intentional steps to boost them naturally and create a greater sense of balance, joy, and resilience in your daily life.
We’ll explore both the science behind these neurotransmitters and the simple, practical ways you can apply this knowledge to improve your mental well-being. Small, intentional changes can make a lasting difference in how you feel and function each day.
Cultivating Gratitude: Practical Steps for a More Positive Mindset
In this episode, we dive into the power of gratitude, what it is, why it matters, and how you can incorporate it into daily life for lasting benefits. We explore the psychology behind gratitude, its impact on mental health, and practical ways to nurture a gratitude practice for yourself and your family.
Our journey takes us from the research behind gratitude to practical, everyday applications. We explore how shifting your focus to gratitude can create positive changes in your mindset, relationships, and overall well-being, with simple practices that make a lasting impact.
Understanding the science of gratitude
Recognising how gratitude impacts mental health and relationships
Practical steps to build a gratitude habit
How gratitude can shift focus from lack to abundance
Simple exercises, including the Three Blessings practice
Self-Esteem and Self-Worth: Understanding, Improving, and Nurturing
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we unpack the differences between self-esteem and self-worth, revealing why both are fundamental to our well-being. We discuss practical strategies to boost your own self-esteem and self-worth, as well as effective ways to foster these qualities in children.
Our journey takes us from psychology to Feng Shui, as we explore how your home environment can support and enhance your self-esteem. Learn how to identify areas in your life and home that may be hindering your self-worth, and discover simple yet powerful techniques to create a space that nurtures your inner strength.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we dive into understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and how to support individuals with autism.
In this episode, you'll learn:
What autism is and its prevalence
The characteristics of autism and how they manifest
Differences between male and female autism presentations
How to support someone who may be autistic
The Power of a Positive Mindset
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we explore the transformative power of a positive mindset and how it impacts various aspects of your life, including your family and home environment.
In this episode, you'll learn:
What a positive mindset really means and why it's important
The benefits of maintaining a positive outlook
Practical strategies for cultivating a positive mindset
Understanding the Bagua Map in Feng Shui
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we're diving deep into the Bagua Map, a fundamental tool in Feng Shui practice. Learn how understanding and applying the Bagua Map can unlock positive energy in your home and bring balance to various aspects of your life.
In this episode, you'll learn:
What the Bagua Map is and how it's used in Feng Shui
The nine sectors of the Bagua Map and what they represent
How to apply the Bagua Map to your home's floorplan
The five elements and their significance in Feng Shui
Practical tips for enhancing different areas of your life using Feng Shui principles
Navigating ADHD and Motherhood: Understanding Matrescence - with Rachel Howe
In this episode of Calming Your World, we're exploring ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and its impact on Matrescence - the transition into motherhood. We're joined by special guest Rachel Howe, an attachment and Trauma Informed Mental Health Occupational Therapist, for Women and Mothers.
In this episode, you'll learn:
What matrescence is and how it affects new mothers
The impact of ADHD on the matrescence journey
Various treatment approaches for supporting ADHD mothers
How Reiki can be used as a complementary therapy for ADHD mothers
Understanding and Supporting ADHD
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we're exploring ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), what it is, the different presentations, and how to support individuals, both children and adults, who are experiencing ADHD.
In this episode, you'll learn:
What ADHD is and the three different presentations
The criteria for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults
The prevalence of ADHD, including the gender gap and reasons for under-diagnosis in women
Practical tips for organising and supporting individuals with ADHD
The role of the home environment and using feng shui principles to create a calm space
The Importance of Sleep and Creating a Calm Bedroom Environment
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! In this episode, we're exploring the crucial role of sleep in our overall well-being and how to create a calming bedroom environment using Feng Shui principles.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The importance of sleep for physical and mental health
How much sleep we need at different life stages
Tips for improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety
Feng Shui principles for creating a calm bedroom environment
Specific advice for both adult and children's bedrooms
Balancing Mind and Home: Psychology and Feng Shui Tips to Ease Anxiety
Welcome back to the Calming Your World podcast! I’m Amanda Hawes, and in this episode, we’ll be diving deep into how you can combine professional mental health support with Feng Shui principles to help manage anxiety and create a calm, positive environment in your home.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How anxiety impacts your brain and daily life
Practical steps for seeking mental health support, from GP visits to therapy
The role of Feng Shui in creating a calming, anxiety-reducing home environment
Key Feng Shui tips for decluttering, energy flow, and mirror placement
Simple habits to transform your space into a sanctuary for mental wellness
Welcome to the Calming your World Podcast
Welcome to the very first episode of the Calming Your World podcast! I'm your host, Amanda Hawes, and I'm thrilled to introduce you to this exciting new journey where we'll be integrating Feng Shui, psychology, and neurodivergence to create calmer, more positive lives.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Who I am and my background as a psychologist with over 20 years of experience
My approach to supporting children, parents, and families with various needs
The importance of positive psychology in my practice
How I incorporate feng shui principles into my work
What neurodivergence means and the various conditions it encompasses
What to expect from future episodes of the Calming Your World podcast