Advertise on podcast: She Flourishes with Brenda Jasmin

What does it really mean to flourish? After a season of conversations about burnout, illness, uncertainty, aging, dreams, trust, grief, and even signs and synchronicities, one message kept emerging: You don't have to wait for perfect circumstances before you flourish. In this special Season 4 finale, I'm sharing one of my favourite traditions on the She Flourishes Podcast. At the end of every interview, I ask each guest the same question: "What's one thing you most recommend women do to flourish in their lives?" In this episode, we've gathered the answers from this season's guests into one inspiring mashup. It’s a collection of wisdom, encouragement, and practical reminders for whatever season of life you find yourself in. Featuring wisdom from: ✨ Jennifer Dinis ✨ Krista Merkley & L. Bruce ✨ Mel Grime ✨ Martha Munroe ✨ Julie Pickett ✨ Renée Walker ✨ Suzanne Sewell ✨ Stacy Maynard In this episode, you'll discover: • Why you don't have to wait for perfect circumstances before you flourish • How to flourish through illness, burnout, uncertainty, and life's unexpected detours • Why treating yourself with kindness matters more than striving for perfection • The power of saying yes to your dreams • How staying open to possibility can transform the way you experience life • One simple reminder I hope you'll carry into your next season: Keep showing up for your life. Thank you for listening, for sharing the show, and for allowing me to be part of your journey. Have a wonderful summer, and I'll see you this fall for Season 5. Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Have you ever wondered if you're really on the right path? Maybe life hasn't unfolded the way you expected. A relationship ended. A career changed. A health challenge stopped you in your tracks. Or perhaps you're simply asking yourself, What's next for me? In this heartfelt conversation, I'm joined by my dear friend, spiritual teacher, podcast host, and newly published author Renée Walker. Together, we explore one of the most important questions we face in midlife: How do you trust yourself when life doesn't go according to plan? Renée shares the remarkable story behind her chapter in the new book My Manifested Life and how looking back helped her see that life's unexpected twists, setbacks, and detours were quietly leading her exactly where she needed to be. If you've ever questioned your decisions, struggled to trust your intuition, or wondered whether there's purpose in the difficult seasons of life, I think you'll find hope and encouragement in this conversation. In this episode, we discuss: • How to trust yourself when life takes an unexpected turn • The difference between intuition and fear • Why setbacks often become life's greatest turning points • Learning to let go of needing certainty before taking the next step • How to choose love over fear, one decision at a time • Why looking back at your own story can strengthen your confidence moving forward • What it really means to live your "manifested life" Renée also shares what she learned through the process of becoming a published author and why she believes we don't need to see the whole path before taking the next step. Whether you're navigating a transition, searching for purpose, or simply trying to make sense of a chapter you never expected to be living, I hope this conversation reminds you that your story is still unfolding. Resources Mentioned • My Manifested Life by Kathleen Cameron with Renée Walker and 14 other contributing authors https://a.co/d/0b7BkSte • Renée Walker: www.reneewalkerwellness.com• Spiritually Wired podcast Connect With Renée Walker: Website: http://www.reneewalkerwellness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneewalkerwellness Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reneewalkerwellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renée-walker-7976b513 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Spiritually-Wired Spiritually Wired Membership: https://reneewalkerwellness.com/membership Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Have you ever found yourself saying... "I'll slow down after this project." "I'll enjoy summer once things settle down." "I'll take time for myself when everyone else is taken care of." If so, this episode is for you. As we head into the heart of summer, I'm sharing some of the biggest insights from a beautiful week spent with an incredible group of women in my Summer of Joy experience. Together, we explored what really gets in the way of joy and why so many women struggle to make time for themselves without feeling guilty. In this episode, we'll talk about: - Why we often put ourselves last - How guilt, busyness, and waiting for the "perfect time" steal our joy - Why simple pleasures often bring us the greatest happiness - How to say no to what drains your energy so you can say yes to what truly matters - Why joy isn't something we can force, but something we can intentionally make room for  Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, constantly busy, wondering how to enjoy life more, or simply wanting to make the most of this summer, I hope this episode reminds you that you don't have to wait for everything to be perfect before you start living. Because summer is short. And life is too. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your review helps more women discover the podcast and join our growing community of women who are flourishing on purpose. Until next time, keep flourishing. Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Have you ever found yourself going around in circles trying to make a decision? Should I stay or should I go? Should I start the business? Should I write the book? Should I focus on this or that? Should I follow my heart or do what seems practical? If so, you're not alone. In this solo episode of She Flourishes, Brenda shares a powerful question she heard from Kathleen Cameron at a recent women's conference that she hasn't been able to stop thinking about: "What are you pretending not to know?" At first, the question left her frustrated and searching for an answer. But after sitting with it, talking it through with a friend, and reflecting on a business question she'd been asking herself for years, she realized something surprising: Maybe the problem wasn't that she didn't know the answer. Maybe the problem was that she already did. In this episode, Brenda explores: • Why many of us stay stuck in indecision • The difference between needing more information and needing more trust • How overthinking can become a form of avoidance • Why some questions become stall tactics • The tension between following your heart and following what seems practical • How to reconnect with your inner wisdom • The question that may help you uncover what you already know If you've been struggling to make a decision, wondering what's next, or feeling stuck between two paths, this episode is for you. Questions from this episode: • What are you pretending not to know? • If I already know this, what would change if I trusted it? Resources Mentioned: Summer of JoyA simple and uplifting experience designed to help you reconnect with yourself, your dreams, and what matters most this summer. Sign up here: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/QrL2096 If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your review helps more women discover the podcast and join our growing community of women who are flourishing on purpose. Until next time, keep flourishing. Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Have you ever noticed that sometimes you don't fully go after the things you say you want? Maybe it's writing a book. Starting a business. Taking a course. Launching a passion project. Making a change you've been thinking about for years. We tell ourselves we're too busy, too old, not ready, or not clear enough yet. But what if those aren't the real reasons? In this solo episode of the She Flourishes Podcast, Brenda explores the hidden fear that may be keeping many of us stuck: the fear of finding out we're not as talented, capable, creative, or successful as we'd hoped. Drawing on positive psychology, Carol Dweck's research on growth mindset, a memorable story from a Lake Huron triathlon, and her own experience writing her upcoming book, Brenda explores: • Why we sometimes protect our potential instead of fulfilling it • How a fixed mindset can keep us stuck • The surprising way ego influences our decisions • Why many smart, capable women hold themselves back • The difference between disappointment and regret • How to stop letting fear make your decisions If you've ever wondered why you keep putting off something that matters deeply to you, this episode is for you. Listen in and be inspired to fully participate in your life and discover what's possible when you stop playing small. Resources Mentioned: • Mindset by Carol Dweck • Summer of Joy with Brenda Jasmin Sign up for the Summer of JOY Challenge here: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/QrL2096 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps more women discover the show and join our growing community of women who are flourishing on purpose. Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Have you been feeling flat, uninspired, disconnected, or like you've lost your spark? You're not alone. Many women in their 40’s and 50’s find themselves functioning well on the outside while quietly wondering why they feel stuck, restless, or like something is missing. Their lives look good on paper, yet they can't shake the feeling that there's more available to them. In this solo episode of the She Flourishes Podcast, Brenda explores the concept of languishing, the space between depression and flourishing, and offers a powerful reframe: What if you're not meant to get your old spark back? What if you're being invited to discover a new source of aliveness? Drawing on positive psychology, the PERMA-V model of wellbeing, and her Meant for More philosophy, Brenda shares practical ways to move from simply going through the motions to feeling more engaged, energized, and connected to your life. In this episode you'll learn: • What languishing really is and why so many women experience it • Why feeling "meh" may be a message rather than a problem • The surprising reason getting your spark back may not be the goal • How to identify the clues that point toward your next chapter • 7 practical ways to reconnect with meaning, purpose, vitality, and possibility • Why curiosity may be more important than certainty If you've been wondering, "Is this all there is?" or feeling a pull toward something more, this episode is for you. Because perhaps you're not meant to go back to who you were…perhaps you're being invited to become more fully who you are. Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

In this episode, Brenda introduces a new format called The Flourishing Five and shares 5 simple ways to prioritize more in-person connection in an increasingly digital world. After a week filled with birthday celebrations, pickleball lessons, live music, meaningful conversations, women’s gatherings, and hearing her kids laughing together in the kitchen with friends, Brenda was reminded just how soul-nourishing real-life interaction can be. In this episode, she explores: -why in-person interaction matters for wellbeing -the impact of loneliness and digital fatigue -the importance of belonging and community -the power of “micro-moments” of connection -why third places matter -and simple ways to create more meaningful human interaction in everyday life Brenda also reflects on how easy it has become to stay home, stay online, and avoid the effort of gathering, while reminding us that flourishing often happens in shared experiences, laughter, movement, conversation, and presence. If you’ve been feeling disconnected, isolated, overly online, or emotionally drained lately, this episode is a gentle invitation to reconnect with people, community, and real life again. Topics discussed: positive psychology, loneliness, human connection, wellbeing, friendship, community, belonging, mental health, digital fatigue, flourishing, resilience, social wellness, midlife wellbeing, pickleball, third places, connection Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

What if the dream you quietly gave up on… is still possible? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation, Brenda sits down with author Suzanne Sewell to explore possibility, synchronicity, resilience, meaningful moments, and what it truly means to live in “present harmony.” Suzanne shares the powerful story of how a simple conversation with Brenda years ago helped reignite a dream she had nearly abandoned…attending the Olympic Games opening ceremonies in Vancouver. What unfolded next became what Suzanne now calls a “Suzanne story”: a series of synchronicities, serendipitous moments, unexpected opportunities, and reminders that sometimes the walls we encounter aren’t signs to quit… they’re invitations to keep going. Together, Brenda and Suzanne explore: -Why we sometimes give up on dreams too soon -The difference between coincidence, serendipity, and synchronicity -How to know when to keep going after obstacles appear -Why meaningful moments matter more than perfect plans -The memories worth holding onto, and the ones we can let go -How paying attention shapes the life we create -The connection between awe, joy, gratitude, and flourishing -What it means to create a life that truly resonates Suzanne also shares the story behind writing and self-publishing her book, Present Harmony: Connecting Past Memories with Future Dreams to Help the Present Resonate, a beautiful reflection on memories, dreams, possibility, and living intentionally. If you’ve ever wondered: “Is it too late for me?” “What if I tried?” “Could there still be more for me?” …this episode is for you. Meet my guest: Suzanne Sewell Suzanne grew up in a small town in northern Ontario. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Waterloo and worked at various positions in the scientific field for almost ten years in research, technical support, and managing customer service. After leaving the corporate world to raise her two children, she became a Creative Memories consultant where she taught classes and workshops about creating meaningful photo albums. She started blogging in 2008 and has spent over twenty years researching, teaching, and writing about memories, chasing dreams, and the importance of the present moment. She self-published her book, Present Harmony, as the culmination of her journey and what she has learned along the way. Connect with Suzanne Sewell: Instagram: @suzannesewellSign up for her newsletter on her website: www.suzannesewell.com YouTube: www.youtube.com/@suzannesewell Purchase Suzanne’s book, Present Harmony here: https://a.co/d/0ee2UWBm Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

What does it really mean to age beautifully in a world obsessed with looking younger? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of the She Flourishes podcast, Brenda sits down with professional makeup artist Julie Pickett for an honest conversation about beauty, aging, confidence, self-worth, and learning to feel at home in the skin you’re in. Julie has worked in the beauty industry for more than 20 years, with experience in television, commercial shoots, weddings, and personal makeup education. But beyond makeup, what she’s really passionate about is helping women feel seen, confident, and authentic, especially as they age. Together, Brenda and Julie explore: -The pressure women feel to look “filtered,” flawless, or forever young -Why so many women struggle with visibility and confidence as they age -The emotional connection between makeup, identity, and self-worth -How social media filters and beauty culture affect women psychologically -The difference between “anti-aging” and “pro-aging” -Why makeup should enhance who you are, not hide you -Learning to love the woman you see in the mirror -The deeper “heart work” of confidence and self-acceptance -How women can reconnect with themselves after seasons of burnout, caregiving, or losing confidence -Why aging is not something to fight, but something to honour This conversation is compassionate, empowering, and deeply affirming for women navigating midlife, changing bodies, changing skin, and evolving identities. Whether you love makeup, avoid makeup, or feel conflicted somewhere in between, this episode will encourage you to think differently about beauty, aging, authenticity, and what it truly means to flourish. Connect with Julie Pickett:Instagram: @makeupbyjulie Website: www.makeupbyjulie.ca If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to the She Flourishes podcast, and leave a review…it helps more women discover these conversations. Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Mother’s Day can bring up so many emotions when you no longer have your mom. In this special 2 B’s in a Pod conversation, my dear friend Binu Dhindsa and I open up about being part of a club no one ever wants to join…the club of experiencing life, and especially Mother’s Day, without your mom here in human form. Together, we share the grief, the tears, the anger, the memories, the signs, the love, and the meaningful ways we’ve learned to honour our mothers while also nurturing ourselves. This is an honest, compassionate conversation for any woman who feels the ache of missing Mom this Mother’s Day. Our hope is that this episode helps you process your emotions, feel less alone, and gently find your own way through the day. And if you know someone who may need this conversation, please share it with her. Connect with My Co-Host: Binu DhindsaHost of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibesFollow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa  Website: www.binu.ca Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Do you keep telling yourself that once life calms down, you’ll finally focus on yourself and the next chapter you really want? Once there’s more time. Once people need you less. Once things feel less overwhelming. Then you’ll write the book, get healthy, start the business, pursue the dream, or make the change. The reality is that life doesn’t magically settle down in midlife, it simply changes shape. Between aging parents, adult children, grief, health issues, work responsibilities, emotional labour, and the general unpredictability of life, many women find themselves waiting for a “perfect season” that never fully arrives. In this episode of She Flourishes, Brenda shares an honest conversation about why waiting for the right time can quietly keep us stuck, and why meaningful forward movement is still possible even when life feels messy, full, and far from ideal. Drawing from what she is witnessing inside her Meant for More coaching program where women are writing books, launching businesses, creating passion projects, and stepping into new dreams while simultaneously navigating very real life challenges, Brenda offers a refreshing reminder that progress in midlife is rarely linear. Messy progress is still progress. Brenda also shares a personal windsurfing story and metaphor about learning to adjust to changing conditions instead of waiting for perfect wind. It’s a powerful reminder that we can keep moving forward even when circumstances shift. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, discouraged, or like now just isn’t the time, this episode will help you shift out of waiting mode and back into meaningful momentum. In this episode: -why women often postpone their goals and dreams in midlife -the hidden all-or-nothing thinking that keeps us stuck -why messy progress is still meaningful progress -how to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming -a simple mindset shift to help you stop waiting for the perfect time Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Today we’re celebrating Episode 150 and it’s a powerful one. After a short break, I’m back with 5 life-changing lessons inspired by the Artemis II mission to the moon. This isn’t about space, it’s about what’s possible for YOU. If you’ve ever wondered if it’s too late, felt stuck waiting for the “right time,” or are craving more meaning, joy, and purpose… this episode is your reminder: - It’s not too late - You don’t need to be perfect - And you are meant for more We’ll explore awe, midlife possibility, human connection, and why the most meaningful moments in life have nothing to do with achievement, and everything to do with love. Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Do affirmations actually work? Or are they just self-delusion dressed up as positivity? In this solo episode of The She Flourishes Podcast, Brenda Jasmin revisits affirmations through a science-backed lens. If you grew up in the 90s, you probably remember Stuart Smalley staring into a mirror on Saturday Night Live declaring, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.” It was funny, and it worked, because affirmations had already started to feel a little ridiculous. For years, motivational culture encouraged us to repeat bold statements like: “I’m healthy, wealthy and wise.” “Money is flowing to me in many ways.” “I am wildly successful.” “I am fearless.” But do affirmations actually work? In this episode, Brenda unpacks: -What the science really says about self-affirmations -Why some affirmations can actually make you feel worse -The 2009 research showing overly positive statements can backfire -Self-Affirmation Theory and how reflecting on core values protects self-integrity -A recent American Psychological Association study showing values-based affirmation exercises reliably increase well-being -A 2025 meta-analysis reviewing 180+ trials and 22,000+ participants demonstrating measurable improvements in psychological well-being And most importantly, how to upgrade affirmations so they actually support your growth. If you’re a woman over 40 redefining career, money, health, confidence, or purpose, this episode will show you how to shift from fantasy affirmations to identity-based affirmations that build self-trust and drive action. And when grounded in identity and action, they can strengthen self-trust and improve well-being. References mentioned in this episode: American Psychological Association. (2025). Self-affirmations can boost well-being. APA Press Release. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf Zhang, Y., Chen, B., Hu, X., & Wang, M. (2025). The impact of self-affirmation interventions on well-being: A meta-analysis, American Psychologist. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf Steele, C. M. (1988). The Psychology of Self-Affirmation (Self-Affirmation Theory). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/chapter/bookseries/abs/pii/S0065260108602294 Wood, J. V., Perunovic, W. Q. E., & Lee, J. W. (2009). Positive self-statements: Power for some, peril for others. Psychological Science, 20(7), 860–866. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19493324/ Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Are signs and synchronicities real… or are we simply noticing what we’re primed to see? In this “Two B’a in a Pod” conversation, Brenda and her guest, Binu Dhindsa explore the intersection of science and spirituality…from the reticular activating system (RAS) and “magical thinking,” to feathers, repeating numbers, and those moments that feel like a wink from the universe. Whether you’re woo-curious or science-first, this episode offers a grounded way to think about signs: not as rules to follow, but as invitations to pause, go inward, and trust your next step. Loved This Episode? If this conversation sparked something in you, share it with a friend who’s woo-curious (or science-skeptical 😉). And if you’d like more “Two B’s in a Pod” episodes, leave a rating and review, it truly helps the show reach more women. Connect with My Co-Host: Binu DhindsaHost of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibesFollow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa  Website: www.binu.ca Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

Winter in Canada can feel long, dark, and relentless…and when you add polar vortex temperatures, heavy snowfall, and limited daylight, it’s no wonder many of us start to feel the winter heaviness. In this episode, Brenda shares compassionate, practical ways to support your mood, energy, and nervous system during deep winter, without toxic positivity or unrealistic expectations. This is not about “loving winter” or pretending it’s easy. It’s about learning how to be kinder to yourself, work with your body, and create small pockets of warmth, light, and connection that make the season more manageable, and even gently nourishing. You’ll hear about simple science-backed strategies, insights from Scandinavian cultures, and realistic ideas you can experiment with right now. In this episode, we explore: -Why winter heaviness, tiredness, and low mood are normal -How daylight (not just sunshine) impacts mood and circadian rhythm -Easy ways to increase light exposure in your home -The power of gentle morning movement -Creating consistency with sleep in darker months -Working with your natural energy rhythms -Why 15 minutes of connection can make a real difference -The concept of "hygge" and creating cozy on purpose -Nourishing your body with warm, comforting foods -Friluftsliv (outdoor living) and embracing small amounts of fresh air If winter tends to feel heavy for you, this episode offers gentle reminders and doable ideas to help you move through the season with more steadiness, warmth, and self-compassion. Resources mentioned in this episode: Charles Duhigg, Jan. 2, 2026 Newsletter, The Science of Better: “It’s Really Cold. Here’s How to Stay Happy (With Science)”  Charles Duhigg’s book: Smarter, Faster, Better: The Transformative Power of Real Productivity (Please note that I mistakenly referred to this book as The Science of Better, but that’s the name of his newsletter). You can order his book here: Indigo: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/smarter-faster-better-the-transformative-power-of-real-productivity/9780385680936.html?searchType=products&searchTerm=Smarter%20Faster%20Bett Amazon: https://a.co/d/0ZCKqPu Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com