Let’s talk Audio….Books, Podcasts and so on.

January was a predominantly audiobook month for me. Without even realising which is great as I’m taking part in #2024AudiobookChallenge with my target for the year to be 50 and I’ve listened to six in the first month.

As I’ve been feeling under the weather a friend mentioned meditation. I’ve tried mindfulness in a number of ways and it doesn’t always work for me. I decided to jump into bed and listen to an audiobook- instead I decided to listen to a Sleep episode on #Audible.

It was a seven min listen about tension that had me feeling relaxed and super sleepy. I had a really good sleep and didn’t wake until nearer six for a wee. I then went back to sleep until ten or just before. It really helped.

Last night I decided to try a different one…both made me sleepy although I think the first one relaxed me a little more. Although the second one was soothing and I definitely think I’ll check out more from Dr Nerina.

I’m currently listening to the Improbable Meet Cute and I believe I’m on the third short story of six.

Podcasts – The Well-being Lab from Will Young has been a favourite but there isn’t a series at present. And I’ve dipped in and out of Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place and the sleep episodes are classed as them. I really enjoy podcasts and would love to get into some more so hit me with some inspiration. I listened to some Running ones a while back to but haven’t in forever.

Will Young: An icon and an inspiration…

Back in 2002 I along with the rest of the world first discovered Will Young thanks to Pop Idol. Little did I know how much of an inspiration he would become in 2022.

When I first saw Will he blew me away, a breathe of fresh air and as soon as he sang that was it. I was instantly in awe and wholeheartedly a fan. My sister was Team Gareth but from day one I was all Will. Hearing him sing tracks like ‘Light My Fire’ left me with goosebumps and eager for more.

In a career that’s seen him sing and act in films as well as on the West End you would think he had it all. Will has suffered terrible sadness and in that sadness he’s created ‘The Well-being Lab’ a podcast that’s focussed on so many issues that effect each and everyone of us on a daily basis from Insomnia to obsessive compulsive disorders. Sharing information by speaking to various people.

I’ve found every episode enlightening even if it’s not something that’s troubled me it’s still taught me something new. Alongside learning something it’s so soothing to just listen to Will. I’ve listened to a few of these podcasts whilst on my run. I loved hearing Will read my message out that sure did spur on the end of my run to do more and better.

Last week his documentary aired on channel 4 Losing My Twin. This was a heartbreaking watch but I adore the fact he’s channeling his sadness to spread awareness and to help others. That’s such a powerful thing to be able to do and as much as I felt sad and had tears I feel what Will is trying to do will make a difference to many others. I’m an auntie to twins and every single day I’m in awe of the bond they share.

Sometimes just knowing that others are going through the same thing and in knowing where to look for help will make such a difference to peoples lives.

Will has also just released a self help type book called Be Your Self and Happier the A-Z of Wellbeing. I pre-ordered this and hope to start reading it this weekend.

In a nutshell I adore Will Young and I’m proud of all he’s achieving…