By Helen Walsh
As we get ready for the holiday season there’s a certain spirit in the air; a feeling of warmth, reflection and perhaps a chance to reset. For many of us, Christmas is a time of joy but also one of contemplation about where we are and where we’re headed. This year, I had the pleasure of listening to some incredible stories on MINDING YOUR OWN SELF, the podcast I present for Ringsend Community Radio, where guests courageously shared their experiences around mental health, resilience, and their journeys toward success. Their insights couldn’t be more timely or relevant for all of us this Christmas season.
The podcast featured guests from diverse backgrounds, but they all highlighted one common theme: the importance of prioritising mental well-being as a foundation for any form of success. There are too many guests to cover them all but here are a few stand-out stories and lessons that resonate as we close out the year.
Ber Grogan from Mental Health Reform reminded us of the importance of reaching out and asking for help if we are struggling. We had resilient guests like Aisling from Teeth Whitening Fairies who after a serious accident and a lot of disappointment found her inner strength to push on and now runs an incredible business that helps people feel better about themselves. Andrea Kirwan from Dreway Academy & Clinic talked about how her faith gives her incredible strength and possibilities to live a big life, while Matthew Toman from Bankhouse Media brings us on an wonderful journey from his social welfare days to his LA lifestyle.
Celim Robinson spoke about how he embraced his differences and highlights the importance of recognising diversity in people and what a gift it can be as he runs his digital studio in the heart of Ringsend. Professor Robert Kelly, consultant cardiologist brought home the serious effects of vaping while encouraging us to take better care of our health.
The variety of the guests brought us on an incredible journey, from Yvonne the manifesting queen, to Cathy Moore our laughter Yogi. We had TV Stylist Cathy O’Connor tell us the importance of a capsule wardrobe to the lovely Elizabeth Watson doing incredible work in her community with the elderly and the ongoing legacy of her late mother Betty Watson. Jessica Mc Donnell took us on her travels from living in Rome to trekking through Asian jungles and gave some great tips to anyone thinking of going on a similar adventure.
Some of the common denominators with the guests was their willingness to be vulnerable on their journeys, getting back up or redefining success when they got knocked down, and bringing home the point that there is no perfect! They learned when things went wrong to take a little step back, sometimes take a rest but never quit. Finding your strength comes from self belief but gratitude played a huge part in having a healthy mindset. As Tony Robbins once said: “it is practically impossible to be miserable and grateful at the same time.”
This Christmas maybe have a listen to one of the episodes to give yourself a little lift. From the time I was invited to take over the podcast it has always been my intention that some little thing from these amazing guests will hit a nerve with even one listener, and it will give them a bit of hope that they are stronger than they think. Surround yourself with great people who believe in you and feed your mind with positive and inspirational stories.
It is impossible to cover all the guests for the last 21 Episodes but I want to say a huge thank you to each and everyone of them for taking valuable time out of their schedules to share their stories. I also want to thank Mick Hanley who manages the studio and Adam McNamara, Ronan, Lonneke and Dylan on production for their great work.
I am so excited to see where next year’s journey takes us but I really appreciate you all.
I will leave you on this note: As a Life Coach I know the holidays are often filled with a mix of emotions and it’s easy to feel pressured to meet expectations, or to set ambitious goals for the New Year. But let’s remember that success is a journey, not a destination. Making the most of each day is the best way to get through tough times and mind your mental wellness. This season, take inspiration from these voices: allow yourself to take time to rest and then you can get up and start over and cram in as much laughter and fun as you can along the way.
Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or reflecting quietly, remember that mental well-being is the foundation of a fulfilling life. May this Christmas be a season of peace, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose for all.
Thank you and Happy Christmas
All episodes available on Spotify
