Creative Soundscapes with Margaret Soraya (Margaret Soraya)

KJ Nasrul is a clinical psychotherapist, writer, musician and avid traveller.  She loves helping others find their voices through turning inward, and finding their resources for inner healing and resilience.Fascinatingly, Margaret and KJ chat about imposter syndrome.  One definition is 'A false and sometimes crippling belief that one's successes are a product of luck or fraud rather than skill, a pervasive feeling of self-doubt insecurity or fraudulence despite often overwhelming evidence to the contrary.' Does this feel familiar? Are creatives/artiststs  especially prone?

Further discussion explores where the feelings of vulnerability, exposure and rawness originate. Sometimes we listen to our culture or may be affected by the environment we are born into or by conversations, judgments and evaluations by teachers, peers or family members. An interesting debate followed about the part social media can play in influencing imposter syndrome and the importance of switching off when feeling vulnerable.Listen in for inspiration and to hear about the importance of moving forward and just 'doing' even though you're scared. Movement is the catalyst. Take action even though you're fearful. Fear of failure is closely tied to imposter syndrome. Turn it around  and learn from it - failure actually moves you along.  We should also pay attention to how we talk to ourselves. Would your inner voice speak to a friend or a child like you do to yourself?   Speak kindly and encouragingly to yourself!

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Sean Tucker is a photographer, filmmaker, author, and speaker based in the UK.  His popular YouTube channel is inspirational to other creatives.

Join Margaret whilst they chat about his book, Meaning in the Making.. This powerful book has clarity and is very relative to today's world. He explains how the book came out of a retreat he took to Iceland for four days - sitting in an ice cabin for days.

They also talk through thoughts around the why of photography.  Along with subjects such as  life philosophies, writing together with photography, metaphors in photography, introversion and the concept of retreats to find creative inspiration.

Sean Tucker Website
https://www.seantucker.photography/

About "Meaning in the Making" book
https://www.seantucker.photography/the-meaning-in-the-making

Sean's YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/c/SeanTuckerphoto

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Wendy is a photographic artist, who lives in Surrey. She feels most at home with her camera in the natural landscape, where she finds a quietness that serves her creativity.

Join Margaret as she chats to Wendy about her life as a photographer, exploring what drives and motivates her. She beautifully illustrates her approach as 'seeing silence'. The next 12-18 months will hopefully see Wendy become a photographer full-time.Currently Wendy is concentrating on getting established for print sales and exhibiting.  She has recently had a piece exhibited in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. She explains how she is working with a mentor to articulate her artist identity and compile a collection of work for exhibiting in the future.Wendy shares her thoughts on social media and believes that for her, the purpose of Instagram is to share, explore and connect with other photographers. Although it is a bit of a double-edged sword, she loves the sense of community and belonging she gains. This interesting exchange gives a beautiful insight into Wendy's philosophy. https://www.wendybagnall.com/https://www.instagram.com/wendybagnall_/

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My own thoughts during a new series of  solo podcast episodes recording during my trips. This was recorded during a trip to the Hebrides with Skye - a first trip away with my new whippet. Making some space for being creative, or simply having some breathing time always pays off for me. I always have the most powerful thoughts that go on to become reality and change things for me. Whether that is writing pieces that will eventually form a book, having the idea of a creative festival or beginning new projects. Its always worth consciously taking a break. 

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Listen to Margaret's thoughts on how to make decisions during times of change and are struggling how to find an answer.   She quotes Glennon Doyle's 'Be still and Know' when you are trying to find answers ........'.  Stop, rest and process the change.  Let her know what your 'Be still and Know' looks like ....

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Mark Kirkland is a Social Worker based in Glasgow and combines his demanding, full-time job with scuba diving, snorkelling and creating the most wonderful underwater photography.  He beautifully articulates how he has learned how to differentiate between coping with the pressure of the work and stress. His passion for Scotland and the sea was ignited during family holidays in Dumfries and Galloway. From a very young age, he felt a connection with the remote, rugged Scottish coastline and the power of the sea, which drove his desire to show off Scotland. He finds people are astonished to see what we have in our seas and enjoys bringing something different to the table. It is truly fascinating to hear him explore why he is motivated to shoot in Scotland. He took up scuba diving years ago, and his passion for underwater photography really took off about 4 years ago.He has loads of ideas to develop his work in the future and longs to put 'more' into his photography. He'd like to introduce something a bit more creative and add layers to his photography over the next few years. Mark feels his split photography invites people in who don't dive and explains how he plans and does research for his diving.  Finally, he  explains the background to his amazing frog photograph! Hearing his research for the shot is incredible. The frog is a lit underwater split photograph with Glasgow tenement flats above. Mark's InstagramMark's Website  Sign up to the next Creative Light Festival here: https://creative-light.co.uk/Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretsoraya/

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Listen to Margaret's thoughts during some downtime  after photographing a  Lews Castle wedding.

She reflects on introversion and not having a voice in her younger days.  She remembers that no-one listens to the quiet, softly spoken ones. Never assume that quiet means unconfident or lacking direction.  There's a very big difference between shyness, confidence and introversion. She explains how over the last few years she has learnt how to educate herself to speak out. To be unheard is upsetting on a personal level and when we are listened to it builds self-esteem we feel valued confident and valued.  

This is an open invitation:

1. Share your thoughts via email and I'll read some out
2. if you've ever felt unheard and struggle with  being listened to
3. Do you feel like you have talent that goes unnoticed because of your quiet nature 

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Mali Davies is a talented photographer, YouTube filmmaker, podcaster and graphic designer.

Despite a love of photography from the age of 6, he explains how he felt pushed into the commercial world of graphic design as it's difficult to earn a living as an abstract artist. It took him many years to realise that photography was the one thing he really wanted to do. His photography picked up about 10 years ago when landscape photography began to surface and feels this grew from YouTube channel.

Mali's enthusiasm is highly infectious, and he loves finding something enthralling and inspiring in the work of others - there is no room for competitiveness. Margaret & Mali chat about the  rise in expressive photography and creativity at the moment and the  channels available for inspiration.


Mali's website

Mali's Instagram

Mali's YouTube Channel

Mali's Podcast

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Chloe Heuch is a writer living in North Wales and has just published her debut novel, Too Dark to See. Having always had a passion for writing. she completed an MA in creative writing and has had short stories and poems published. Currently, Chole divides her time between her family, writing and  teaching part-time.

Longstanding friends since university, Margaret and Chloe explore living as a creative in the world today. They discuss how real life can interrupt and delay creative output. The interruptions can be in the form of motherhood, being a primary care-giver. financial problems, health issues, single parenthood, etc.

It's interesting  to hear them discuss how Tilly Olsen's book, Silences, is still relevant today. Among other things Tilly talks about how female writers in the past have had other roles such as motherhood, partners, carers, etc and how these roles took precedence and society valued them more than seeing women as a writer. These roles create a 'silence' in terms of creative output. They also explore how it is possibly less gender-related in today's world - really any primary carer will experience these constraints .

Do their thoughts on materialism and what is important to lead a happy, contented and fulfilled life resonate with you?

If you'd like to hear some tips on how to carve out time for your creative self without feeling guilty, take the time to listen in! It is important for your well-being!

Chloe's Website

Chloe's facebook page

Buy the book " Too Dark to See"

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A contemporary landscape artist from Scotland, Ellis O'Connor works in the field of painting and drawing.  She's been a practising artist for 7 years and during that time has been quite nomadic, living in Iceland, Noth Uist and recently Skye and is drawn to elemental, atmosphere places 'on the edge'.  She is one of 10 artists worldwide chosen to sail around the Archipelago of Svalbard in the High Arctic on a research led residency with a group of artists and scientists.

Ellis beautifully articulates how the hard or difficult times in her life have helped her grow as a person and learn how to move on. Describing how choosing to embrace fear is the most liberating feeling helping her discover how resilient she is and how much she loved spending time travelling on her own.  

Listen in to Margaret and Ellis chat about art being like a therapy, an essential part of living for them.  Ellis finds her art becoming more and more abstract, much more about her experience of being in the environment and then translating the emotion on to the canvas. 

This is a fascinating insight into Ellis' life and thoughts. One not to miss!

Ellis O'Connor Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ellisoconnor/
Ellis O'Connor website https://www.ellisoconnor.com/

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Maria Murray is a multi-talented and passionate artist who uses whatever media is appropriate to create the image she wants to produce. 

Based in the beautiful village of North Waltham, she is described as a nature-obsessed, flower-loving, story telling artist.  She explains her deep understanding of the why behind her work - a blend of a love of gardening coming from covid and a deep and long interest in relationships leading to the creation of her flower scanography .

As she chats with Margaret, we learn how a number of recent life changes led her to reassess her life.  It is refreshing to hear her views on simplifying her life, generating more room for creativity and spending more time with loved ones. The bottom line is that we can choose how to spend our time and she doesn't want to look back and have spend 80% of her life working. Home is with your people.

Change is something that Maria advocates.  She eloquently tells how she has needed time to absorb the feelings of loss experienced this last year. After consciously deciding to scale down work, hear her philosophy on how she has adapted and embraced this next stage of her life and simplified her life.  She is happy now to 'thrive rather than strive'.

https://www.instagram.com/mariamurraycreative/

https://bio.site/mariamurraycreative

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Bill Ward is a photographer and actor living in Bristol, specialising in creative landscape photography. His photography is mainly project based and he has a strong leaning towards water and enjoys creativity using abstract, ICM and multiple exposure. 

Margaret welcomes back Bill to the first episode of her 2023 podcasts.  Always highly entertaining, he describes how he manages his busy life, whilst Margaret explains how, with her house up for sale and a move to Harris imminent, her life is opening up.

Keep listening to hear them explore their different culling and editing styles - it is fascinating to hear how different personalities work! What do you do with your photographs?  Bill explains that he 'carries his photographs with him'. He feels it's the quality of time that you have to spend, memories of a feeling at that time is what photography is about - photographs are a reminder of that feeling.

Reflecting on last year's Creative Light Festival, Bill loved that photography was at the centre, but with all sorts of other creative influences feeding in. He relished the energy and sense of community with like-minded souls, all coming from different directions. This year's Festival in Loch Insh, Aviemore is in October with tickets on sale now.

Don't miss this first podcast - a perfect start to the year!

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Margaret shares her own thoughts on gratitude in the episode after the monthly theme in Creative Haven was gratitude in December.

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Margaret catches up with Carien Borst, an artist who lives and works in the Netherlands.

She chats about how she struggled with creating a business while maintaining her art's authenticity.  A flow state (being in the moment and creating freely, forgetting everything around you) was hard to achieve during this period. Carien explains that art is like a muscle you can train. You can create conditions that may help pave the way for a flow state . For instance, you can take time, go to a studio, read a book, go outdoors, do research, find things that attract you, but equally, you cannot predict a flow state.

Join Margaret and Carien whilst they further explore what their individual art means to them and how they use it during the difficult periods we all experience from time to time.  It is interesting to hear them bounce ideas and you will leave feeling inspired to get creative.

Carien Borst
https://www.instagram.com/carien_borst/

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Listen to Margaret's inspirational and moving description of  her long journey home to Harris. Creating a home as a single parent for her 2 young boys was the start of her 20 year struggle to get to where she is today and she expresses her emotions beautifully. She persevered, working tirelessly to provide a stable family life whilst following her own belief in her ability to develop her business through creativity.

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https://quietlandscapes.co.uk/

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Christina Golian is a creative and well-being coach based in Scotland. Her career has taken many twists and turns over the years including wedding photography, journalism and coaching. In common with many people, she re-assessed her work and family life during lockdown and we learn where this has taken her.

Listen in to hear Margaret and Christina explore the origins of self belief, where it comes from.  Acknowledging that most people carry self-doubt, they chat about the possible reasons for this and the ways in which we can build 'scaffolding' to support us. 

They give personal examples about how our life experiences influence our development and how they worked through their inner critics. Christina is a firm believer that compassion and self-compassion when things don't quite go to plan was fundamental to building her self belief.

This lovely and insightful conversation taps into the value of surrounding yourself with positive people and affirmations, accepting compliments, embracing failure and much, much more.

The chat concludes with Christina describing her Masterclass at Margaret's Festival in October 23. This fun session will cover self belief, compassion and the role of positive emotions - and how to tap into that.

https://www.instagram.com/christinagolian/

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Margaret has been thinking for a long time about sharing more of her lifestyle whilst being out and about in Harris, passionately believing in the physical and mental benefits of the outdoors. Be transported from her doorstep in Harris to the beautiful beaches.

Wondering why it has taken so long to do this she has realised that starting something new takes time and 'letting go' is the hardest part.  Once we let go of the outcome, what other people think, worrying about it all, the process becomes easier. 

Listen in to hear about Margaret's summer. You'll love hearing about her move to Harris, her workshops, her Harris exhibition, the autumn Festival, her online community, etc. 

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A first-ever outdoor podcast recorded during a trip to the Isle of Mull.  In this solo episode Margaret talks about the great things that happen when we have space and time. You can also see the video version over on YouTube. 

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Imagine taking a leap of faith and stepping out of your comfort zone, only to discover a newfound sense of confidence and personal growth. That's precisely what happened to our incredible guest, Lesley Lintott, who conquered her chronic shyness by participating in a masterclass last year. In today's episode, we delve into Lesley's inspiring journey and discuss the power of vulnerability in both our connections and our creative pursuits.

Together, we explore the delicate balance between protecting our creative work and putting ourselves out there to grow and connect with others. Through authentic conversations, we uncover the role of vulnerability in tapping into our unique voice and artistic style. Lesley and I also discuss the challenges of perfectionism, criticism, and fear of failure, and share valuable insights on how to break free from these barriers.

As we wrap up our discussion, Lesley shares her experience of overcoming the fear of public speaking and the transformative impact of listening to her own voice. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability in all aspects of our lives, and how it can ultimately help us create meaningful art and forge deeper connections. So join us and be inspired to face your fears, embrace your vulnerability, and unleash your creativity.

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A podcast recorded on location as I revisit the beach in Holland that holds a special place in my heart. I share personal, nostalgic moments of my childhood and discuss the importance of family connections and ideas around generational patterns.   I am beginning to explore how these experiences have shaped my life and work.I also touch on the value of scheduling time for creative pursuits and personal growth. From beach trips in Holland to a retreat in Italy, discover the importance of spending our free time in ways that truly matter to us. Be inspired to prioritize your own health, learning, and exploration, and take a step towards living a more fulfilled and meaningful life.

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 Being alone often fosters my most innovative thoughts and it's a necessity for me to spend some quiet time each morning, letting my mind wander and create. However, creativity isn't just about enjoying solitude, it's about finding the right balance of alone time and meaningful interactions. Engaging in deep, thought-provoking conversations, whether it's during my podcast interviews or within my online community, can also spark a wave of creative ideas.

It's not uncommon for you to find me lost in the world of photography. The art of capturing moments, the tranquility of nature, and the thrill of immortalizing memories, it's akin to meditation for me. Photography is more than just a hobby, it’s an extension of self-expression, and taking a break from it sometimes allows me to come back with a fresh perspective. This episode gets even more interesting as we bring in Sebastian Wehrle who shares his unique insights on photography. A true creative at heart, Sebastian provides a fresh perspective on the importance of constantly creating through photography. So, join us on this introspective journey where we discuss solitude, creativity, and the magic of photography.

https://www.instagram.com/sebastian_wehrle/

https://sebastian-wehrle.de/shop/

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Listen in to hear Margaret reflect upon her inspiring day which began with a chat with Claire Walsh for next week's upcoming podcast, moved on to a photography teaching session with the delightful Keela and culminated in some evening beach down time and swim. 

Chatting about what she learned from both experiences, Margaret gives an insight into her life, health and battles. 

An incredible free spirit, Claire explained that to create freely, you must create for yourself alone. Powerful, authentic and emotional images will follow. 

Hear about 11 year old Keela's wonderful, child-like freedom whilst creating her photography.  Her liberating 'just try it and see' attitude' is amazing! A truly lovely afternoon in nature and swimming.

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From the depths of self-reflection to the height of imagination, I recount my recent struggles and triumphs in this episode. 

An in-water photography exhibition, my new book "Within Hebridean Seas," and the upcoming Creative Light Festival in Scotland. Plus, I've got some exciting news on an offer from Creative Haven to help you find your voice. 

On location on the Isle of Hoy, I talk about  insights from Deepak Chopra , helping us to focus on our purposes, passions, and gratitude.

A few thoughts on to feeling so happy and smiley, mental health and the power of talking. 

And a final quote from the incredible Louis Schwartzberg tp uplift and feel gratitude for each day. 

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Join me as I chat with Adele and Max Warner Tate about making YouTube videos. We discuss how creating video content for personal enjoyment can help overcome the intimidation of public critique. We talk about of working with a partner,and how this eases the workload.

Talking through why there arent more females on YouTube. Talking about time constraints and the delicate balancing act between personal and professional commitments. Tune in for our tips on carving out space for passion projects and inspiring more women to vocalize their narratives on YouTube. Apolgies in advance for background noise - this episode was filmed on location on the Isle of Harris in my van where Skye my whippet decided to cause chaos!

https://www.youtube.com/@WarnerTatePhotography

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Eric Heimon is a talented music and sound producer, and we chat about the reality of pursuing a creative profession. His transition from performing musician to a successful freelance composer and producer is not only inspiring but is also filled with practical advice. He discusses the balancing act between creative expression and earning a living, and why he prefers commissioning custom music pieces over generic ones.Eric's journey is a tale of unlearning and discovering joy in new creative avenues. This episode is filled with practical advice, and a whole lot of inspiration. Tune in and join us on this exciting exploration of creativity, passion, and music. You can see Eric's Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/eric_hemion/Erics website is here http://www.erichemion.com/

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After a recent workshop led by  Kate Jones from Neon Living in my Creative Haven community, I wanted to share some of my own thoughts on how I work with my own inner critic. Join me on an early morning walk on the Outer Hebrides with Skye my whippet, as I talk about whats happening in my life at the moment as well as how I cope with my inner critic! 

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A solo mini episode about my passion for creativity and how it has not just shaped my life, but also become a cornerstone in my family's ethos. I discuss my own creative pursuits - painting, writing a book, and managing this podcast, each laden with its share of self-doubt and perseverance.  I chat about " How far have you come"  and Morgan Harper Nichols' empathetic poems. 

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Recorded on the beach with the backdrop of crashing waves, I wanted to talk about comparing our progress with others and feeling inadequate with how much we are doing. And It's okay to not be doing as much as others. We all have different lives, commitments, and work paces. The important thing is taking small steps forward. 

Leadership and life coach, Kate Jones chats with me on this weeks podcast. We explore the value of seeking out support, and not just when you’re in crisis. Coaching and mentoring aren’t just for therapy, but can be the guidance you need to create something new in your life. Sharing personal experiences, we shed light on the differences between therapy and coaching, and the importance of finding the right mentors. Trusting the process of change and transformation can be challenging, but it’s a creative journey that can lead to fulfilling outcomes.Lastly, we weave in the power of nature and creativity as avenues to inner peace and well-being. Kate eloquently explains how these elements can help us access a greater sense of belonging. Rather than seeking answers externally, exploring these aspects can help you connect with your true self. So tune in as we journey with Kate Jones through the transformative power of new beginnings, the magic of coaching, and the promise of a more fulfilled life through inner creativity.Kates website: Kates Instagram

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A solo episode around the idea of making mistakes and moving on rather than dwelling. 
Why we beat ourselves up about the small things. Then onto a recording made at home in Harris in front of the fire where I speak about taking the pressure off and how taking small steps in your creative time can lead to happier and more joyous moments. 

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This episode features Elizabeth Hockney, a part-time doctor, whose passion for photography  has added colour and vibrancy to her life. She shares her journey to creating more abstract and painterly images.

Elizabeth talks about the importance of finding a group of like-minded people - your tribe - to share and grow with, 

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I am talking with the amazing  Joe Cornish, a landscape photographer known for his woodland images at this years creative light festival. Joe gave a talk and led some outdoor workshops during the festival and it was his spirit of kindness and generosity that really grabbed me.  We also talk about how community and connection can inspire and influence our creative process, a concept embodied at the Creative Light Festival.

 Talking through  the importance of gratitude and generosity in our creativity. It was a real honour to spend time with Joe Cornish. 

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A roundup of the Creative Light Festival, its speakers,  masterclasses, and activities. Snippets from Christina Golian's  'Spark Your Creativity' masterclass, an extract from  Lisa Paulson and an exciting announcement about future festival dates that you can look forward to - the 2024 event at Broughton Sanctuary and a community-focused 2025 event in Harris.

You can see details of the new festivals here 

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Join Margaret as she shares her thoughts whilst navigating an emotional and overwhelming time in her life. She expresses her gratitude for the many acts of kindness she has received and, as always for her, how her art is instrumental in helping her cope.

You can see Broughton Santuary here

And see details for Creative light at Broughton here 

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Thoughts around self-care and well-being at Christmas - a solo episode with Margaret 

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Listen in to Margaret explain how she is navigating the various stages of grief she is experiencing.  As always she instinctively turns to creativity and nature, whilst at all times listening to what her body needs, tuning in to what makes her feel better.

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Anni Townend is a Leadership Partner, Coach and Mentor to Executive Teams and Senior Leaders, as well as being an Author, Facilitator, and Entrepreneur and Podcast Host of Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend.Join Margaret  as they talk about the benefits of walking and talking. Anni explains that walking is one of the ways in which she renews herself and this has always been a criteria for her when deciding where she lives.They further explore  the equation of creativity, collaboration and conversation. A really inspirational chat which shouldn't be missed as it emphasises the importance of finding an outdoor activity which resonates with each of us.  Finding cracks and crevices in our busy lives to take time to stop is crucial.Anni advocates taking small pauses every day and reading!  Listen in to hear how to greet each day as a mini adventure!Anni's Podcast Anni's Website Anni's Instagram

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Join Margaret as she introduces us to some sounds, thoughts and feelings she experienced during her recent trip to Kerala, India.

Since 2016, she has regularly headed to India for Ayurvedic treatments and the time felt right for her to return this March . She explains how her time there helped with ongoing feelings of grief, gave her space to write and to think and, as always, use creativity as an outlet. A calming, thoughtful reflection of her time at this retreat.

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Join Margaret whilst she chats with Laurence Winram, a professional photographer from Aberdeen and now based in Edinburgh. It's fascinating to hear how he balances his diverse commercial and unusual creative work. Laurence describes in detail how he creates his beautiful land art  At these times, he is embracing the moment,  whilst practising gratitude and mindfulness.  He loves the connection to nature. He creates his design, takes the image and within hours the scene can degrade and be returned to nature.Enjoy this gentle insight into Laurence's life. it will make you think.  Be sure to tap into his @shapednature page on Instagram - you won't be disappointed.

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Listen in to Margaret as she shares her thoughts on this period of rest, regeneration, and self-compassion that she has been practicing recently.

She covers numerous topics and, in her own unique way, explains how she has consciously slowed her life down, prioritizing rest recuperation and meditation, which she instinctively knows is needed for her well-being. 

Sometimes, that space to breathe and not to be doing, reading and mindful activities can really spark creativity and thought processes back into action. She is particularly enjoying listening to the sounds of nature at the moment - the birds and barking seals, for instance, are all very soothing.

Neale James Podcast episode 

Joey Hulins website 

Find Beach art by Dorothy atTraigh Alba 

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Out on the kayak on the Isle of Harris, Margaret shares her thoughts along with the sounds of the birds and the water all around.
Immerse into the peace and quiet of the early morning on the island with Margaret.
Margaret shares thoughts about overwhelm and how to narrow down which channels to use for yourself.
A comment on Neale James' recent podcast with Sean Tucker where they chat about overthinking and how to learn to listen to your own intuition and not be distracted by whether your art or writing or music will be liked by others.

Some thoughts on journalling and how writing things down can mean the difference between remembering important things. As well as some readings from Margaret's notebooks. 

Neale James Photowalk podcast with Sean Tucker
 

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In this conversation, Margaret Soraya interviews Bill Ward about his approach to photography, specifically his use of intentional camera movement (ICM) and his connection to water. They discuss the importance of being open and generous in the photography community, as well as the role of movement in both acting and photography. Bill explains how movement is central to his photography and how intentional camera movement allows him to add his own unique touch to his images. They also explore the relationship between a photographer's personality and their photographic style, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression in photography. In this conversation, Bill Ward and Margaret Soraya discuss their experiences with underwater photography and the challenges they face with their equipment. They also explore the idea of projects and how they evolve over time. They touch on the process of exhibiting and creating books, and the importance of choosing the right images and writing to accompany the work. They emphasize the need to keep photography interesting and fresh by constantly exploring new subjects and techniques.

Takeaways

• Being open and generous in the photography community can lead to a more collaborative and supportive environment.
• Movement is central to Bill Ward's photography, and intentional camera movement allows him to add his own unique touch to his images.
• A photographer's personality and personal experiences can influence their photographic style and subject matter.
• Authenticity and self-expression are important in photography, and photographers should strive to create work that resonates with their own passions and interests. Underwater photography can be challenging due to equipment issues, such as aligning the camera correctly in the housing.
• Projects in photography are ongoing and can evolve over time, allowing for exploration and growth.
• Exhibiting and creating books are valuable ways to showcase and present photographic work.
• Choosing the right images and writing is crucial when putting together an exhibition or book.
• It's important to keep photography interesting by constantly exploring new subjects and techniques.

Sound Bites

• "There's a temptation to be territorial, but as you say, being open and generous is important."
• "Intentional camera movement is about adding your physicality to the photographs."
• "Movement is absolutely central to what I really like doing in terms of photography."
• "It's the going back and back and back that's the thing... that's where the good stuff comes from."

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A solo episode from Margaret recorded out by the water with bird sounds in the background. Living more slowly and in tune with nature and how silence and nature sounds help soothe the nervous system. Cooking and baking and other creative activities that help slow down and live better. 
Documenting the wildlife and flowers that surrounds me in a small area around my house. 
Why creativity is important - it gives you the tools for coping and releasing emotions during difficult times in life. Making a date with being creative and allowing time for play. 
What are the circumstances in which you feel creative - begin to notice and then repeat when you feel the need to feel inspired. 

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Dr Marie-Lise Schlappy joins me to chat about HSP's ( Highly Sensitive Persons.)

HSP, is a term coined by psychologist Elaine Aron who has written several books on the subject. You can find more on her website https://hsperson.com/

We chat about how the traits are different to introversion, but a large proportion of introverts are HSP's 

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A. S. Apothecary is a crofting enterprise based on the Isle of Harris. Their work is deeply rooted in the ethos of therapeutic plant work. Join Margaret as she talks to Amanda who is the founder, plantswoman and gatherer, distiller and creative force behind A.S Apothecary.

This chat gently guides you through the process of how they cultivate a diverse range of therapeutic plants on their croft organically. They grown lush plants on the croft and in a huge greenhouse which 'meanders like a garden' inside. Hear how they wild harvest and use the plants for their products.

The Imagery is so powerful - the scent and atmosphere in their workshop is almost tangible. You can feel the passion for their work flow throughout. They produce skin care, Wild Eve, speciality teas, tinctures, first aid kits and even roast coffee!

A wonderful calm and soothing journey through nature - do not miss this.

You can find A.S. Apothecary on Instagram
Their website is www.asapoth.com

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Joey is an author, meditation teacher and retreat host.

We talk about adapting during the pandemic and diving into the online space. 

How imposter syndrome is a protection strategy and how to quiet that voice.

FIND JOEY ;

Website https://www.horizoninspired.co.uk/

Instagram  Joeyhulin_writer

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Quiet Landscapes websitehttps://www.quietlandscapes.co.uk/

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Quiet Moments series of solo mini podcasts. 

Thoughts on using solitude and stillness to refind our creativity and wellness. 

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A few thoughts around Helen Reddy's song " I am woman" after watching the film about her recently.  

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Justine is based in the NW Highlands and her work is inspired by the elemental landscapes and seascapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.Justine works in a mindful, intuitive, and immersive way and loves remote landscapes. We chat about her works and her time on the Isle of Eigg as well as her recent move to the west coast of Scotland to renovate a cottage with no road access.  We also chat about  forest bathing and mindful photography 

You can see Justine's website here 

https://www.justineritchie.com/

Follow Justin on Instagram @justin.ritchie

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A few thoughts around water and how it links through my personal life, my well-being and into my creative work. Wild swimming as a way of healing and finding inspiration in my photography.

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A few thoughts on finding our natural style. 

The biggest question in photography is how to find a style that is truly your own.  We can learn techniques and technicals - anyone can - but to have your own unique stamp on your creative style, to truly find your voice is the ultimate goal. 

The chances are extremely high that you already know your own style,  your voice . Or you did once  - when you were young. The problem is that we have all spent our lives unlearning our intuition and natural instincts. 

Opinions, demands of life, societies norms, what everyone else thinks, feeling not good enough all get in the way as we grow up. 

When you think of a 3 year old creating happily with boldness and enjoyment. They dont  worry about what anything else may think of their creation they simply enjoy that wonderfully creative process of throwing paint around.

As we grow this knocked out of us over and over in a gradual process. At home and school we are taught that mistakes are bad - but the reality is great artists are those that are willing to take risks, to stand out and be different. 

When you create, you create from the heart and therefore you lay yourself open to hurt. And those times where a teacher or a parent or peers laughed at your art or told you it was no good, cause deep scars. So we learn instead to blend in, to be liked   Until we no longer know what is real, what is inside of us.


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Paul Sanders is a photographer who has a very special way of seeing the world. 

His beautifully calm B & W images come with a message that is deeper than just the images. Pauls's mindful approach to photography is both beautiful and very much needed in today's world. 

We chat about accessing vulnerability, channeling fears and anxieties without worrying about what other people think about you, and how this leads to more authentic work. 

Touching on Paul's motivations behind his images, including his thoughts and words used alongside his work. How his genre is not defined and he simply looks for beauty and enjoyment in his subject matter. We also touch on perfectionism, people-pleasing, making images for yourself, and finding your own path this way. And how his photography creates awareness around mental health. 

Paul also tells us about how the lockdown has provided space for his business: 'Still" to develop and evolve into mindful online workshops and how he was allowed to slow down and reflect over this time.

Find Paul, In his shed at the bottom of his garden

Alternatively, you can find him on Instagram
 https://www.instagram.com/discover_still
or his website https://www.discoverstill.com/

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A few thoughts of getting out of a creative rut in your art or photography.  

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I chat with the amazing KJ Nasrul about the importance of creativity and making the space for it in our lives with intention;  on self-compassion and using creativity as a way of healing.  

We touch on KJ's thoughts on imposter syndrome and also how we speak to our children about creativity. 

Other talking points are around making creativity accessible, such as thinking of it like doodling as opposed to creating a mural. So much on this wonderful episode that will uplift you and encourage you to spend time on yourself and your own creativity. 

Connect With KJ Website:https://BlissBeginsWithin.com Podcast:https://storiesofastonishinglight.buzzsprout.com Instagram:  https://instagram.com/musingsonother and https://instagram.com/blissbeginswithinFacebook: https://facebook.com/BlissBeginsWithin Twitter: https://twitter.com/MusingsOnOther 

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Bill Ward is a photographer and actor living in Bristol, specialising in creative landscape photography. His photography is mainly project based and he has a strong leaning towards water and enjoys creativity using abstract, ICM and multiple exposure.

Staying in the present and  photographing whatever project he's working on at any given time is what sustains Bill. He is currently completing an ITN project on starling murmuration on the Somerset Levels.

This is a highly entertaining account of how he balances his acclaimed acting  and photography careers. Peppered with anecdotes he explains how acting is the reason he became a photographer. Whilst thriving on the  energy  he gets from acting, photography allows him to re-establish to himself who he is. He needs the peace, quiet and solitude of photography to bring balance back.

 It is important to him to make a connection with wherever he is and describes his work as 'unashamedly emotional'.  He loves 'hanging out with' or 'plugging into' Mother Nature and finds it re-energising. 

Chatting about the importance of trying things out and moving on when things don't work out he says this shouldn't be looked upon as failure. His attitude is inspiring!

Hear Bill describe how his Theatres in Danger book came about.  It's a beautiful book and all the money raised goes to the Theatres Trust charity.

Don't miss this wonderful chat.








www.billwardphotography.co.uk

Theatres in danger book

www.instagram.com/billwardphotography

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Dear readers, I hope you enjoy this meditation, which I wrote while thinking about a time of year when there can be many pressures. It is accompanied by a video from my home in Harris, and the music was a commissioned piece by Will Collant.

Sending love, Margaret

Debbie Hartmann shares the incredible stories of her photography projects that helped her mum as she was experiencing Parkinson's disease and Dementia and her friend with brain cancer. Debbie turned her creativity into positive, fun projects that lift both her and others during difficult times in a natural and intuitive way. Her enthusiasm for life and helping others is contagious. This episode is possibly one of the most heartwarming stories of humanity and love tied up in photography projects. Debbie is an extraordinary person who always seeks out the positives in life and allows herself to connect naturally to who she is and use that in her photography. She finds beauty everywhere and recently set out on a photography project to better help her "like" the harsh Minnesota winters. Please take a look at her projects and beautiful photography on her website.

https://www.heyhartmann.com/

In this episode, I take a reflective winter walk in January's snowfall to share my thoughts on slowing down and the challenge of balancing that with content creation.

Substack has given me one cohesive platform where I can share my writing, images, video and audio and that has helped me feel less overwhelmed. This episode is about my journey towards a more fulfilling, less pressured approach to sharing my life and work. And how that has brought about my concept of visual meditations. If you’d like to write in to tell me about something that is challenging for you right now, I would love to be able to create a meditation for you ( anonymous) Just email me at margaret@margaretsoraya.com

I also outline 3 ways in which sharing your work on substack is helpful, even if you don’t have big aims to write for business, followers or monetisation:

1/Help encourage you to write more - a place to write and a place to publish.

2/ Learning to practice putting things out into the world and gaining confidence through doing.

3/ Finding community; people around us to motivate and uplift us.

Finally, I share my plans for a future writing retreat in Wales with Sean Tucker and more details for the Creative Light Festival in Harris in October 2025.

Some Links that may be helpful

Creative Festival

Writing Retreat

Substack / Newsletter

Words and imagery that encourage you to retreat to be kind to yourself, express yourself, find inner peace and become strong again.

Taking your place in the world. Strong, calm and needed

Margaret x

In this conversation, Emma Simpson shares her journey from being an air traffic controller to becoming a writer. She discusses the healing power of open water swimming and how it led her to explore women's relationships with water globally. Emma reflects on the impact of grief in her life, particularly the loss of her brother, and how it shaped her writing. The discussion also touches on cultural perspectives on grief, the challenges of writing authentically, and the importance of community in the creative process. Emma's upcoming book, 'Breaking Waves,' delves into these themes and aims to connect with readers on a deeper level.

Pre Order Breaking Waves

Join Emma for a writing workshop in Harris at the Creative Light Festival

Find Emma on Substack

Find Emma on Instagram