logo
episode-header-image
Apr 2024
31m 26s

The Power of the Pleasant Moment

MARTHA BECK
About this episode

Pleasure is something that many of us may think of as an indulgence, but Martha says it’s actually the gateway to the things that really enrich our souls… And we access this pleasure by relaxing. 🍃

In this episode of The Gathering Room, Martha shares an exercise you can do to drop into relaxation mode, and it doesn’t require a trip to the spa—you can do it anywhere!

Using small, pleasant feelings to anchor the whole mind can lead to revolutionary changes, Martha says, and it begins with just two simple steps:

First, clench your jaw. 😬

Then, release it. 😌

Repeat this a few times, and start to notice the feeling of release when your jaw drops. See if you can find something pleasurable in that release of tension because even the smallest sense of pleasure can pull your attention toward it—and away from negative feelings.

You can extend this Relaxation Pleasure exercise throughout your whole body to help relieve anxiety, anger, or heartbreak. Want to learn how?

Listen to the full episode where Martha will walk you through the steps and also lead you in her guided Silence, Stillness, and Space meditation. It’s a recipe for what Martha calls “a mighty pleasant moment” so be sure to join her!

CONNECT WITH US

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Up next
Nov 13
Give "Tomorrow You" a Break
On this episode of The Gathering Room, I explore the tendency to assign difficult or unsavory tasks to “Tomorrow Me,” thinking I’ll magically want to do them in the future. Tune in to hear personal stories, practical tips to plan things out of joy instead of obligation, and why i ... Show More
31m 48s
Nov 6
Special Guest: Lisa Miller
Gatherers—I’m thrilled to be joined by special guest Dr. Lisa Miller, author of The Awakened Brain, for this episode of The Gathering Room podcast! In this episode we discuss the surprising neuroscience of spirituality, ways to awaken your perception of the world around you, and ... Show More
51m 16s
Oct 23
Everyday Pilgrims
Greetings, Beloveds! I’ve returned from my walk along Spain’s Camino de Santiago, and on this episode of The Gathering Room, I’m sharing what it taught me about turning everyday life into a pilgrimage. I explore how adventure, faith, and story weave meaning into our days. (Back h ... Show More
31m 32s
Recommended Episodes
Jul 2024
#319 - CALM CLINICIAN SERIES: Not Letting Other People’s Anxiety Become Your Own
<p>In this first episode of the CALM CLINICIAN SERIES, Dr. Tarryn MacCarthy talks about how we absorb others’ anxiety and stress. She explains why we let this happen and how to handle it. Dr. MacCarthy emphasizes the importance of self-awareness to prevent taking on other people& ... Show More
21m 3s
Oct 2024
#224: How To Process Feelings Effectively
<p>The common misconception is that feeling your feelings means sitting, sulking, and staying where you are until you feel good enough to move forward.</p> <p>But there’s a much more effective way to process your feelings. Tune in to learn how + hear how Mary is applying this tec ... Show More
29m 10s
Jun 2025
46. Curiosity: Your Most Useful Life Skill
This episode of Healing CPTSD finishes off a mini series unpacking emotions. Today we're talking about curiosity.I share how curiosity can be a quiet but potent force in trauma recovery — one that helps you move toward insight, connection, and a deeper sense of self. We explore h ... Show More
16m 37s
Nov 2024
The Illusion of Time, Day 6: "The Art of Divine Timing"
This meditation is inspired by Eckhart Tolle's profound insights on the nature of time and consciousness. By focusing on the present moment, we can transcend the limitations of time and experience a state of timeless peace and awareness. Through guided imagery, breathwork, and af ... Show More
12m 2s
Oct 2024
The Power of Waiting, Day 2: "The Art of Divine Timing"
Be guided in a meditation inviting you to cultivate the virtue of patience, a cornerstone of many spiritual traditions. By focusing on the present moment and trusting the natural flow of time, you'll experience greater peace and contentment. This practice will help you release an ... Show More
12m 3s
Aug 2019
Frustration Meditation
In this episode of the Mindful in Minutes podcast Kelly helps you release frustration. Use guided imagery to let go of what is irritating you and holding you back, and reveal your true open, relaxed, and joyful self.  Contact the show- info@yogaforyouonline.com Learn more about ... Show More
13m 41s
Jul 2024
#320 - CALM CLINICIAN SERIES: The Simplest Shift That Will Amplify Your Presence
<p>Have you ever felt like you’re constantly running on empty, even during your downtime? Today, Dr. Tarryn MacCarthy talks about the struggle many high achievers face. Through a personal story from a vacation where relaxation seemed impossible, she uncovers the first step toward ... Show More
23m 17s
Sep 2023
EP 141 - 20 Minute Yoga Nidra Practice For Relaxation
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1723781/open_sms">Text me your thoughts/questions</a></p><p>Hello Magical Human &amp; welcome back to Madison Mindset the Podcast 🧚🏼🌱<br/><br/>This episode is a beautiful and loving self care practice ... Show More
23m 54s
Sep 2
Deconstructing Anxiety: A Gentle Guided Meditation
When you feel anxious, it can seem like a solid, overwhelming wall. This gentle guided meditation helps you see that anxiety is just a collection of thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. By observing each part with gentle awareness, we can deconstruct the wall and allow it ... Show More
9m 36s
Sep 2
WITH MUSIC - Deconstructing Anxiety: A Gentle Guided Meditation
When you feel anxious, it can seem like a solid, overwhelming wall. This gentle guided meditation helps you see that anxiety is just a collection of thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. By observing each part with gentle awareness, we can deconstruct the wall and allow it ... Show More
9m 44s