Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast
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Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast

Bonnie Gray

Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast hosted by Christian author Bonnie Gray is dedicated to refreshing your soul with rest and sparking joy, so you can feel God’s love and peace. We'll walk you through scientific, scripture-backed methods of restoring calm, in order to help you stress less, take better care of yourself, and create new rhythms to rest in daily life.

Here are some topics covered in this podcast: 

  • Feeling Anxious? Cast Your Cares on God Because He Cares For You
  • 3 Ways to Break Free from Stress, Worry & Anxiety
  • How to Say No to Fear & Yes to God PLUS What's the Difference Between Secular & Biblical Meditation?
  • Is It Burnout Or Is God Stretching You? 4 Signs to Know the Difference PLUS 4 Mental Health Benefits of Stories
  • 3 Surprising Ways to Stop Overthinking, Improve Your Mood During the Day, & Get the Sleep Your Body Needs
  • The Antidote to Stress & Fatigue + The Surprising Causes – Plus Raising Stress-Resilient Kids

FOLLOW BONNIE:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thebonniegray
Facebook: https://facebook.com/thebonniegray
Her site: http://www.thebonniegray.com

 

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Quieting Anxious Thoughts: Why Childlike Joy Isn't Childish But Good for Wellness & Faith #108
February 5, 2024 - 20 min
Is joy childish? In this episode, Bonnie explores this intriguing question. Listen to discover the profound connection between childlike joy and faith as Bonnie shares insights on rekindling the playful spark within you.  Learn to embrace activities that bring personal joy, understand the science behind play, and dive into the spiritual significance of having childlike faith.  Tune into this episode to experience the joy that comes from being God's beloved child and discover a refreshing breath prayer to carry with you. Key Takeaways: Recognize the link between childlike joy and faith in Jesus. Science: Embrace the idea that play is a powerful tool for building resilience. Soul Care: Understand the importance of welcoming the child within you as a sacred time with Jesus. Discover the spiritual significance of joy and play in your relationship with God. Breath Prayer:  (Inhale) When my anxious thoughts multiply //  (Exhale) Your comforts delight my soul Scripture Promise: "When my anxious thoughts multiply, your comforts delight my soul." Ps 94:19Join Bonnie on this transformative journey as she encourages you to choose joy and connect with Jesus in the small, delightful moments. If you enjoy the podcast, don't forget to rate and review it in your favorite podcast app. For more uplifting and faith-filled content, visit us at LifeAudio.com. LINKS & RESOURCES Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Get Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Learn about Soul Care School: https://mysoulcareschool.com  “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Wellness Rythyms” Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Making Changes Stick as the New Me in the New Year with Jesus #107
January 29, 2024 - 19 min
   LINKS & RESOURCES Sign up for Soul Care School: https://mysoulcareschool.com  “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Wellness Rythyms” Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Get Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Numb to Joy? Unfreeze Your Heart and Find Your Flow of Joy with God's Promises
January 22, 2024 - 19 min
Welcome to "Breathe," the podcast that invites you to exhale, relax, and discover the power of God's promises. In this episode, Bonnie explores the question, "What makes you freeze and what makes you flow?" as she delves into the Freeze Stress Response and how to break free from stress using God's word and practical soul care tips. Learn to unfreeze your heart and move towards joy by discovering activities that bring you peace and tapping into the nurturing presence of God. Tune into this episode to embark on a journey of self-discovery, renewal, and finding joy in the midst of life's challenges. Key Takeaways:- Understand the freeze response and how stress affects your body.- Embrace the concept of "finding your flow" by engaging in activities you enjoy with your hands.- Discover the power of saying "yes" to God's promises for life, peace, and joy.- Partner with God in creating something new in the areas of your life where you feel uncertain or stressed.- Take a soul care tip: Do something with your hands this week that brings you joy, and experience the calming effects of entering the state of flow. Breath Prayer: Inhale: All promises of God // Exhale: Are yes in Christ Scripture: “All the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” 2 Cor.1:20 BSB Join Bonnie on this inspiring journey of rest, renewal, and saying "yes" to the joy God wants to bring into your life. LINKS & RESOURCES Sign up for Soul Care School: https://mysoulcareschool.com  “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Wellness Rythyms” Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Get Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Do This to Rewire Your Brain For Joy & Break Old Habits #105
January 15, 2024 - 23 min
Do you find it difficult to break old habits? You're not alone! Listen to this podcast to learn a proven way to rewire your brain for joy that is scripture-based and backed by science. Soul Care mentor Bonnie Gray invites you to explore the path of breaking free from stress and embracing a life filled with peace and joy, as we commemorate Martin Luther King Day. In this episode, Bonnie explores: Learning to break the habits that hinder your peace and joy. Discover how God's design for your nervous system and soul provides a path to relief and breaking old patterns.Learn to uncover the secrets to renewing your mind and rewriting old stories with God. Dive into the encouragement of breaking unhealthy habits and finding words of wisdom in God's promise.Tune into this episode to experience a breath prayer from Jeremiah 29:13, promising guidance into the new year. Learn how to activate your body's natural response to rest and cultivate joy-filled rhythms with Jesus.Key Takeaways: - Learn to tackle stress: Neuroplasticity to re-wire your brain - The Science: Discover the power of journaling and positive reinforcement - The Power of New Adventures: Break unhealthy habits by embarking on adventures to learn something new - The Soul Care; Positive encouragement and grace lead to transformation - Journaling for Joy: Explore the power of journaling to release stress and boost mood. - Reflect on what drained and energized you the past year Breath Prayer: Inhale: You will seek me and find me // Exhale: When you search for me with all your heart Scripture: "You will seek me and find me, exhale when you search for me with all your heart." LINKS & RESOURCES Sign up for Soul Care School: https://mysoulcareschool.com  “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Wellness Rhythms”  Get Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Renewing Your Mind: How to Reduce Stress Using Scripture-Based Mindfulness #104
January 8, 2024 - 24 min
Have you wondered how mindfulness aligns with your faith? In this episode, Bonnie delves into the transformative power of scripture-based mindfulness. Discover how biblical mindfulness isn't just about reducing stress; it's about finding peace and joy in God's presence amidst life's chaos.Learn to center yourself in God's promises, starting small and embracing the shelter of His word. Explore the practice of breath prayers and the impact of meditative prayer on personalizing scripture. By nurturing positive thoughts and treasuring God's words, experience the restorative power of biblical mindfulness.Tune in to discover soul care practices, including a practical tip: embracing a fruit break for improved well-being and restful sleep. Remember, this new year, you're worthy of joy because you're beloved in God's eyes.Key Takeaways: Biblical mindfulness: Finding peace in God's presence amid chaos. Spiritual Practice: Power of breath prayers and meditative prayer for personalizing scripture. Science: Nurturing positive thoughts for improved mental and physical health. Soul Care: Embracing self-care practices like fruit breaks for well-being and joy. Inspiring Story: How our childhood & grown-up experiences of joy draw us close to God Breath Prayer:   Inhale: You are my refuge and my shield.  // Exhale: I have put my hope in your word. Scripture:  You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word," Psalm 119:114   LINKS & RESOURCES Sign up for Soul Care School: “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Healthy Habits” https://mysoulcareschool.com  Get a copy of Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Want More Joy in Life? Create New Rhythms & Happy Healthy Habits with God's Promises in the New Year #103
January 1, 2024 - 27 min
Ready for a fresh start, but wonder if it’s worth the effort to make changes? Ever wondered how to turn a new year into a canvas for fresh possibilities, instead of ending up with regrets? In this episode, Bonnie helps you get a fresh start with a new series “Fresh Faith, Breathe Joy.” Learn key tips to creating a life of joy by creating happy healthy habits to lower stress and focus on your wellness with Jesus in the new year. We’ll delve into the power of God's promises to revitalize our lives, taking small steps toward joy-filled rhythms. Learn to: Discover how to overcome regret, nurture your soul, and develop easy, light habits that spark joy. Explore the science-backed approach to habit formation that makes transformation accessible. Tune into this episode to: Revitalize your life by planting new seeds and embracing God's promises. Learn how patience, small steps, and scripture-based breath prayers can transform your journey toward joy. Key Takeaways: God’s Promise of Restoration: "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locusts have eaten." Joel 2:24-25 The Science: Start small, think easy: Develop new rhythms that nurture your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The Prayer Practice: Pray the promises: Use breath prayers to personalize scripture and infuse your life with divine promises. An Inspiring Story: How an unexpected gift from a father’s passing, revealed a faith lesson on how true change takes time— and how nurturing new habits, and joy will follow. Breath Prayer:  Inhale: I'm doing something new. Exhale: I'm making a way in the wilderness.  Scripture:  "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Is. 43:19 LINKS & RESOURCES Sign up for Soul Care School: “Breathe Joy with Jesus: Create Happy Healthy Habits” https://mysoulcareschool.com  Get a copy of Bonnie’s ECPA bestseller Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which area of wellness you’re missing Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Turn a New Page & Let God’s Love Light the Way with My Christmas Guided Meditation #102
December 25, 2023 - 25 min
What words or labels shape your story? Learn how to let God's love shape how you feel about yourself and let go of guilt and shame as we step into a Christmas. Join Bonnie in discovering how to prepare to make changes in the new year that last, as you celebrate Christmas this week. Learn to breathe in God's love & hear His loving voice in a new way on today's show. Bonnie shares encouragement and key tips to renew your heart this Christmas no matter how diminished you may feel, with both science and scripture. Pause in your day to breathe in God's love using a guided meditation in Josepha's journey in Matthew. You'll be guided through a contemplative practice, 'Lectio Divina,' to find that word or phrase God is whispering to reignite God's love in your heart. Key Takeaways: Breathe in Scripture: Be reminded of who God created you to be, and not what others have negatively imprinted into your life. Breathe out Stress with Soul Care: Learn how to powerfully strengthen what God is saying to you afresh at the end of the year, preparing for the new year ahead.  The Science: Learn about the competitive memory theory describes how each person has access to both positive and negative experiences. Learn how pathways in our brain -negative and positive feelings can grow weaker or stronger depending upon which we activate more.     Breath Prayer: Inhale: "God is With Me" / Exhale: "I am God's delight." Scripture: "No longer will you be called forsaken... you will be called My Delight" Is. 62:4-5 Join Bonnie as we unlock the secrets to nurturing God's love within, letting go of guilt and shame.   LINKS & RESOURCES Join Soul Care School Sign up for Soul Care School: https://mysoulcareschool.com  - Jan 2024 registration opens soon!  Rescue a child from sex trafficking: Go here for the IJM Holiday Gift Guide https://gifts.ijm.org/collections/view-all-gifts Help guest Sandra Sharp at CRU reach 1,000 women in Eastern Europe. Fund a Soaring Guidebook at https://give.cru.org/0527981 Grab ECPA bestseller hit Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Shop Bonnie's Holiday Favorite Things Soul Care List  2023 at http://amazon.com/shop/thebonniegray Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which areas of wellness you’re missing most. Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Find Your Lost Spark of Joy This Christmas with My Guided Advent Meditation #101
December 18, 2023 - 29 min
What's keeping you from joy? How are you putting your heart to the side. Join Bonnie in discovering the elements that nurture joy God intends for you, especially during the holiday stresses. You are worthy of joy, and it's never too late to choose it. Learn to Cultivate Joy on today's show. Bonnie shares encouragememt and key tips to renew your spark of joy no matter how diminished you may feel, with both science and scripture. Pause in your day to breathe in joy using a guided meditation in the Shepherd's journey Luke 2:8-20. You'll be guided through the contemplative practice, 'Lectio Divina,' to find that word or phrase God is whispering to reignite your hope of joy. Tune in to this episode to: - Open your heart and draw closer to God to find lost joy amid holiday stress- Cultivate practices aligning with science and scripture for soul care- Embrace a childlike faith that invites joy into your life- Create space for joy amidst responsibilities and chaosKey Takeaways: Breathe in Scripture: Deepen trust in God's timing & promises to find joy in each season of lifeBreathe out Stress with Soul Care: Learn practical soul-care tips to nurture your inner sparkThe Science: Learn the Power of Sharing Positive Experiences to Multiply Joy Special Guest: Be inspired by the testimony of Keisha Hosmer, who shares her journey of discovering hope and joy despite challenges. Breath Prayer: Inhale: "I am" / Exhale: "Favored by God" Scripture: "I am favored by God." " Luke 2:14 Join Bonnie as we unlock the secrets to nurturing joy within, even amidst the busiest times. LINKS & RESOURCES Visit today's special guest Kacia Hosmer at https://coconutrobot.com & on Instagram.com/coconutrobot Join Soul Care School http://mysoulcare.com - Jan 2024 registration opens soon!  Rescue a child from sex trafficking: Go here for the IJM Holiday Gift Guide https://gifts.ijm.org/collections/view-all-gifts Help guest Sandra Sharp at CRU reach 1,000 women in Eastern Europe. Fund a Soaring Guidebook at https://give.cru.org/0527981 Grab ECPA bestseller hit Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less & Transform Chaos to Calm Shop Bonnie's Holiday Favorite Things Soul Care List  2023 at http://amazon.com/shop/thebonniegray Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which areas of wellness you’re missing most. Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Let Go of Stressful Expectations this Christmas & Renew Hope with My Guided Advent Reflection #100
December 11, 2023 - 29 min
Are you seeking hope in the midst of life's challenges? Join Bonnie Gray to explore the powerful principle of "going a different way" to let go of stressful expectations to renew your hope during Advent. Learn how you can navigate conflict with difficult people or circumstances.  In this episode, Bonnie guides you in Lectio Divina scripture meditation to breathe in hope this Christmas - reflecting on the magi and your story, finding parallels between their journey and challenges you face in life. Discover Jesus amidst struggles and find light in the darkness. Learn to navigate life's redirections, much like the Magi's altered path, and embrace changes this Christmas to reignite hope.Practice the soul care &amp; gain scientific benefits of inner and outer quietness, cultivating intimacy with God and restoring hope. Reimagine Christmas by prioritizing wellness and peace, infusing new rhythms into the festive season.  Special Guest: Jennifer Chung-Vanzini - The podcast also highlights the issue of human trafficking sharing a powerful story with International Justice Mission (IJM) of a survivor named Ruby, who was rescued and now shines God's light. Tune into this episode to enjoy a healing pause with Jesus and encouragement amidst chaos, nurturing your soul with peace and rest. Key Takeaways: Hope Amidst Challenges: Rediscover hope as the presence of Jesus in life's struggles. The Power of "Going a Different Way": Make positive changes and embrace new paths, even in the face of obstacles. The Science: Quietness Benefits: Lower stress &amp; feel intimacy with God practicing inner and outer quietness. Wellness-Centric Christmas: Prioritize wellness and peace during the festive season.  Encouragement and Rest: Embrace hope amidst life's chaos, finding peace and restoration for your soul.  Breath Prayer: Inhale: Return home / Exhale: By another way Scripture:"The magi left for their own country by another way " Matthew 2:12 LINKS &amp; RESOURCES Rescue a child from sex trafficking: God here for the IJM Holiday Gift Guide https://gifts.ijm.org/collections/view-all-gifts Listen to "Finding Ruby" 6 part series Podcast Fight for My Life https://fightofmy.life/ Learn more about International Justice Mission: https://www.ijm.org/ Help Sandra Sharp at CRU reach 1,000 women in Eastern Europe. Go here to fund a Soaring Guidebook at https://give.cru.org/0527981 Grab ECPA bestseller Breathe audiobook only $5.95 (new audible users) Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less &amp; Transform Chaos to Calm Shop Bonnie's Holiday Favorite Things Soul Care List  2023 at http://amazon.com/shop/thebonniegray Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which areas of wellness you’re missing most. Join Soul Care School http://mysoulcare.com - Jan 2024 registration opens soon!  Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  <a href="https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/" data-saferedirecturl="https://ww
Heart Torn? Move from Exhaustion to Healing Peace This Christmas with My Guided Advent Meditation
December 4, 2023 - 28 min
Is your heart feeling torn by expectations and your body feeling exhausted this Christmas – so you can no longer ignore your need for peace - in your emotions and your body? You’re not alone.  In today’s episode, you’ll learn how you can experience more of God’s peace in your heart, your story, and your overwhelmed body - by letting go of old coping mechanisms that are hurting you – and replacing them with soul care practices that will help heal you. Bonnie brings on her dear friend, Sandra Sharp, from once war-torn Croatia, Eastern Europe, to share their journey of healing and discovering peace amid life's tumultuous trials. This episode features a Guided Advent Meditation: Enjoy a guided Lectio Divina Scripture meditation for the first week of Advent, centering on peace. Explore Mary's Story and learn to discern God's whispers of peace within your own narrative. Join Bonnie and Sandra for a soul-enriching reflection, drawing parallels to their journeys and guiding listeners to find solace in divine promises, discovering peace in God's unwavering faithfulness. Key Takeaways: Embrace Healing Your Story: Find peace through meaningful friendships during life's challenges. Identify and Release Coping Mechanisms: Reflect and let go of strategies hindering genuine peace and well-being. Breathe in God’s Promises: Steady your heart in uncertainty, finding solace in God’s faithfulness. Practice Journaling for Healing: Engage in therapeutic journaling for emotional release and lowered anxiety levels. Create Spaces for Rest and Reflection: Cultivate intentional moments for inner peace with God Take Part in Breath Prayers: Incorporate centering breath prayers to restore calm. Tune in to this inspiring, faith-infused conversation on "Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast," refilling your soul with the touch of the Holy Spirit’s peace.  Experience Spiritual Rejuvenation with a Breath Prayer:Inhale: "Let it be to me"Exhale: "According to your word" Scripture: "Let it be to me according to your word." Luke 1:38 LINKS &amp; RESOURCES Help Sandra Sharp at CRU reach 1,000 women in Eastern Europe. Go here to fund a Soaring Guidebook at https://give.cru.org/0527981 Shop Bonnie's Holiday Favorite Things Soul Care List  2023 at http://amazon.com/shop/thebonniegray Join Faith Filled Women's Conference with Bonnie: https://www.faithfilledwomen.com/breatheconference Join FREE Breathe Newsletter!  https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/ Grab ECPA bestseller Breathe audiobook only $5.95 (new audible users) Breathe: 21 Ways to Stress Less &amp; Transform Chaos to Calm Take FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your personal wellness assessment – to learn which areas of wellness you’re missing most. Join Soul Care School http://mysoulcare.com - Jan 2024 registration opens soon!  Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/theb
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Meet Your Host
Meet Your Host
Bonnie Gray is the author of Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Whispers of Rest. An inspirational speaker and retreat leader, she has touched thousands of lives through storytelling, visual arts, nature, prayer and meditation. Bonnie’s writing is featured at Relevant Magazine, (in)courage, and Christianity Today. She lives in California with her husband and their two sons.
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