Calmer in Five

Despite how noisy the world around you is you can still live a calmer life. Thom Walters, host of the Zen Commuter podcast, shares ways of looking at the world through a more peaceful lens. Each week he suggests ways of thinking, acting and being that can enhance your level of serenity.

1780: You Happen to Life 01/30/2026

1780: You Happen to Life In today’s Calmer in 5, we explore a simple but powerful shift in perspective: life doesn’t happen to you—you happen to life. When we see ourselves as passive recipients of events, life can feel overwhelming and out of control. But when we remember that our presence, awareness, and response shape how each moment unfolds, something loosens. This episode invites you to step out of reaction and into participation—meeting life as it is, with intention and calm. Nothing needs to change for this shift to begin—only how you meet the moment. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39931485

1779: You Set Your Own Pace 01/29/2026

1779: You Set Your Own Pace It’s no secret that the world seems pretty fast-paced. Do you want to know an even bigger secret? The world is not fast-paced…you are. As I will talk about today, you are the one who sets your pace, harried or calm. Once you know this, you can take the steps to find a pace that creates calm. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39918625

1778: Turning Inwardly Leads to a Calmer Life 01/28/2026

1778: Turning Inwardly Leads to a Calmer Life Without some practice to help us understand what is right for us, we are at the whim of the world, society and all others we don a mask for. Today I explain how knowing yourself can put your mind at ease. I’ll give a very topical example as it relates to my life and ZC and CI5. Come listen Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39905780

1777: Calm Comes From Connection 01/15/2026

1777: Calm Comes From Connection In our search for calm, it’s easy to think we need to withdraw, disconnect, or figure everything out on our own. In this episode, we explore a simple truth that often gets overlooked: calm doesn’t come from isolation—it comes from connection. Whether it’s with others, with the present moment, or with yourself, connection creates a sense of safety, grounding, and peace that the mind alone can’t manufacture. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39750130

1776: You Don’t Need to Scroll to Find Kindness 01/06/2026

1776: You Don’t Need to Scroll to Find Kindness In today’s episode, we explore how easy it is to look outside ourselves—especially online—for reminders of love, kindness, and goodness in the world. While social media can sometimes highlight beautiful acts of compassion, it can just as easily pull us into comparison, judgment, and worry. During my meditation, I was gently reminded that I don’t need to go online to find kindness at all. It’s already here—waiting to be noticed in everyday moments, quiet gestures, and simple human connection. Today’s reflection invites you to step out of your worries, soften your judgments, and become more present to the love that’s unfolding around you right now. Come listen. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39632700

1775: You Don’t Need to Do Anything to Matter 12/09/2025

1775: You Don’t Need to Do Anything to Matter In today’s episode, I explore a truth we rarely hear in a world that celebrates productivity above presence: you don’t need to do anything to matter. Your worth isn’t measured by output, achievement, or the roles you play — it’s woven into your very being. Join me as I share a gentle reminder that simply existing makes you valuable, loved, and enough. When we release the pressure to prove ourselves, we rediscover the calm and freedom that have been ours all along. Come listen. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39332425

1774: The Stillness That Asked Twice 11/25/2025

1774: The Stillness That Asked Twice Today’s episode is a little different — and more honest than I expected. I recorded this once already, but after a technical mix-up and a little soul-searching, I realized the message was still calling me. So I sat back down behind the mic to tell the story the way it wanted to be told. It began with something simple: tying my shoes with my full attention and feeling a surprising wave of calm wash over me. In this re-recorded episode, I share why presence doesn’t disappear when the moment passes — it invites us back. And sometimes a lesson is worth returning to, because it still has something to teach us. Come listen. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39173855

1773: Where Will Your Boots take You? 11/20/2025

1773: Where Will Your Boots take You? On my walk today, I realized something about my heavy boots — they let me go anywhere with confidence. Puddles, mud, snow… none of it stops me. And it made me think: when you’re clear about who you are, the same is true for your life. In this episode, we explore how a grounded sense of self gives you the traction to move through anything. Come listen Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39105260

1772: The Stillness that Showed Me Myself 11/19/2025

1772: The Stillness that Showed Me Myself I watched five little birds splashing in a puddle today — just playing, completely unbothered by the world around them. And for a moment, I felt self-conscious watching them… until I was reminded that letting joy in is always more important than worrying what others think. This episode is an invitation to choose wonder over judgment and let simple beauty reach you. Come listen Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39089740

1771: The Last Sound You Heard 11/17/2025

1771: The Last Sound You Heard When we want to feel calm, we often turn to what we can see. But sound can bring us back to center just as powerfully. Today, I invite you to think about the last thing you heard that truly moved you — something that didn’t just make you smile, but made your day. Let’s reconnect with calm through the sense we often overlook. Come listen Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/39061585

1770: The Moon Was Always There 10/27/2025

1770: The Moon Was Always There In the stillness of a 3 a.m. drive, Thom reflects on how easily we can miss the beauty that’s right beside us — until a simple turn brings it back into view. In this episode, The Moon Was Always There, he explores how calm often returns in the same way: quietly, faithfully, waiting for us to notice. It’s a gentle reminder that light and peace are never truly gone… they’re just waiting for us to look up. 🌙 Come listen Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38788235

1769: Why We Hide Our Joy — and How to Share It Openly 10/07/2025

1769: Why We Hide Our Joy — and How to Share It Openly Joy is one of the most natural feelings we have — yet, strangely, one of the hardest to show. Somewhere along the way, many of us learned to keep it quiet, to tone it down, or to wait for “the right moment.” But joy isn’t meant to be contained. In this episode, we explore why we sometimes hide our happiness and how sharing it freely can bring calm, connection, and light to everyone around us. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38499460

1768: Nature’s Lesson: The Beauty of Life’s Steady Transitions 09/30/2025

1768: Nature’s Lesson: The Beauty of Life’s Steady Transitions The thought of change is difficult for some people. In fact some people rail against change in any form. Ultimately though, they bring about uneasiness and stress trying to keep things the way they feel they should be. If only there were examples of how change happens every year and we barely notice it. Some even welcome it. Let’s talk about natural examples of transitions, and how we can observe them peacefully. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38411160

1767: The Selflessness of Self-Care: Why Caring for You Helps Everyone 09/15/2025

1767: The Selflessness of Self-Care: Why Caring for You Helps Everyone One of the greatest challenges we face as a people is the misunderstanding that we must tend to the needs and suffering of those around us before we tend to our own. Often we are told to disregard our needs, to focus on others first, even exclusively. However, as I will talk about today, you are absolutely useless to anyone if you are not taking care of yourself first. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38222220

1766: Where Your Attention Goes, Your Reality Grows 09/09/2025

1766: Where Your Attention Goes, Your Reality Grows Here’s something you might not know; your thoughts create your reality. Okay, if you’re here then you have listened to Zen Commuter and you know that already. But what does that have to do with calm? What we focus on grows, good or bad. if we think the world is horrible, our brains actively look for evidence to support that belief. Well, the same is true for seeing the world as beautiful. Watch where you spend your attention and see the world you create. Don’t like it? Change your thoughts. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38150615

1765: The Peace in Knowing Nothing Stays the Same 09/09/2025

1765: The Peace in Knowing Nothing Stays the Same Many times, mostly when we are sad or lonely, we think things will never change. We think that the sorrow will remain forever. However, whether you are going through a good time or a tough one, it is certain that it will not remain the same. In challenging times this gives us hope that brighter times are ahead. In joyous times it is recommended to enjoy the moment, knowing that it too will cease. This seeming randomness, while on some level being cyclical, can bring about a wonderful sense of calm. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/38146610

1764: Your Most Utterly Serene Moment - Do You Remember it? 08/22/2025

1764: Your Most Utterly Serene Moment - Do You Remember it? There are always calm moments, but fewer absolutely transcendent moments of utter serenity. Can you remember one? If you can’t, then you have all the ingredients for making one. today I share with you one of mine, and encourage you to create yours. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37916445

1763: The Power of Unfinished Moments 07/16/2025

1763: The Power of Unfinished Moments Not every moment in life ties up neatly. Some conversations trail off. Some endings never come. And yet, calm is still possible—even in the face of loose ends. In today’s episode, I explore how we can find peace not by forcing closure, but by learning to rest in the unknown. Whether it’s a lingering question, an unresolved relationship, or a dream left open-ended, this episode offers a gentle path toward acceptance and emotional freedom. 🔹 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why the need for closure can create tension and unrest How to shift your mindset around unresolved situations A simple practice for making peace with what’s still unfolding. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37430000

1762: From Me to We: Slowing Down to Connect 07/10/2025

1762: From Me to We: Slowing Down to Connect In today’s episode of Calmer in 5, we explore something deceptively simple, but deeply powerful—the act of slowing down to truly connect with others. It’s easy to get swept up in the current of our own to-do lists, inner chatter, and distractions. But when we pause—even for a moment—we open the door to meaningful human connection. When we release our grip on self-absorption, we make space for love, presence, and shared understanding. It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about stopping long enough to truly see the person in front of us. In this episode, we’ll talk about: Why fast living can rob us of genuine human moments How self-focus can block us from feeling connection and love A simple practice you can use today to shift into presence and engage more fully with others Whether it's with a friend, a stranger, or someone you see every day, today’s episode is your reminder that calm deepens when we slow down and connect. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37355690

1761: Calm Comes From Community as Well 07/09/2025

1761: Calm Comes From Community as Well When we think of calm we often think about being alone, in the woods, at home alone or at the beach. But today I talk about how community, real community, can bring an even deeper sense of calm. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37343095

1760: Love Without Fixing: Finding Calm in Acceptance 07/02/2025

1760: Love Without Fixing: Finding Calm in Acceptance In today’s episode, we explore a subtle but powerful truth: real love doesn’t always come with advice, solutions, or action. Sometimes, the most calming and compassionate thing we can offer another person is simply our presence. When we stop trying to fix others and instead let them feel seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are, we invite peace into the relationship and into ourselves. By releasing the pressure to “make things better,” we create space for deeper connection, trust, and ease. Love doesn’t always have to be loud. Often, it’s at its most powerful when it’s just still. “Calm grows in the space between presence and permission—when we let people be exactly who they are.” Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37250150

1759: Boundaries Are Beautiful: Protecting Your Peace with Grace 06/19/2025

1759: Boundaries Are Beautiful: Protecting Your Peace with Grace IIn today’s episode, we explore the calming power of boundaries—and why they’re one of the kindest, most respectful ways to care for yourself and your relationships. Far from being walls, boundaries are invitations to connect with clarity and mutual understanding. When we set limits rooted in self-awareness and love, we create the space for calm to thrive. Whether it’s saying no, asking for space, or protecting your time, boundaries help reduce stress, prevent resentment, and bring you closer to the life you truly want. Peace begins with knowing where you end and someone else begins. “Every time you set a boundary, you tell the world—and yourself—that your peace matters.” Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37079175

1758: The Power of Listening in a Noisy World 06/18/2025

1758: The Power of Listening in a Noisy World In today’s episode, we explore how the simple act of listening can be a powerful tool for creating calm. In a world full of noise, distractions, and constant opinions, truly hearing someone—without jumping in to fix or respond—builds trust, presence, and peace. Whether it’s a friend, a loved one, or even yourself, deep listening is one of the most grounding gifts you can offer. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37050385

1757: How Diverse Friendships Lead to Greater Calm 06/16/2025

1757: How Diverse Friendships Lead to Greater Calm In today’s episode, I explore the powerful impact that having diverse friendships can have on our sense of calm. When we surround ourselves with people of different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, we expand our empathy and reduce our tendency to judge. These connections challenge our assumptions, foster greater understanding, and ultimately help us move through the world with more kindness and compassion—two essential ingredients for a calmer life. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/37033980

1756: The Gratitude Walk: A Simple Exercise for Daily Calm 06/11/2025

1756: The Gratitude Walk: A Simple Exercise for Daily Calm Episode Title: The Gratitude Walk: A Simple Exercise for Daily Calm Today’s episode introduces a beautifully simple practice to bring more peace into your day—a Gratitude Walk. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a walk where your only task is to list all the things you're grateful for. Whether it’s your health, a soft breeze, or your favorite pair of shoes, this mindful stroll trains your brain to focus on what’s going well. No apps, no pressure—just you, your steps, and your gratitude. Take this moment to ground yourself, reconnect with the present, and build calm one thankful thought at a time. Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be needing a dose of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36957955

1755: Not Everyone Has a Bed: Reflections on Gratitude 06/10/2025

1755: Not Everyone Has a Bed: Reflections on Gratitude Not Everyone Has a Bed: Reflections on Gratitude Episode Description: In today’s episode, I explore how comparison can quietly erode our sense of peace. We’re often nudged—by media, culture, and even our own inner voices—to measure our lives against others. But when we chase what we think we lack, we lose sight of what we already have. Sometimes the deepest calm comes not from getting more, but from realizing how much we already possess. Even something as simple—and vital—as a bed can become a reminder of our good fortune. Gratitude begins when we shift from what’s missing to what’s present. Key Takeaway: Gratitude is a gateway to calm—but only when we stop measuring our worth against someone else’s life. Quote to Reflect On: "Comparison is the thief of joy." — Theodore Roosevelt Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you see your day in a different light, consider sharing it with someone who might be caught in the same cycle of comparison. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you'd like a quick caption or graphic for socials—I’m happy to round it out! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36930880

1754: Small Moments, Big Calm 06/04/2025

1754: Small Moments, Big Calm Small Moments, Big Calm Episode Description: In today’s episode, I talk about the quiet power of small moments—the ones we often overlook. A slow sip of coffee. A breath before a meeting. A glance out the window. These tiny pauses may not seem like much, but they can become anchors of calm throughout your day. You don’t need a retreat or a silent room to feel peaceful. You just need to notice the stillness that’s already there—waiting in the spaces between. Key Takeaway: Lasting calm isn’t built in hours—it’s built in moments. Catch the small ones, and peace becomes part of your day. Quote to Reflect On: “The present moment is filled with joy and peace. If you are attentive, you will see it.” — Thich Nhat Hanh Thanks for Listening! If this episode brought a little peace to your day, consider sharing it with someone else who might need a gentle reminder to pause. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: Let me know if you’d like a short social media caption or quote graphic to pair with this one. You're on a roll this week! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36853285

1753: Let this Moment Be Enough 06/03/2025

1753: Let this Moment Be Enough Let the Moment Be Enough Episode Description: In today’s episode, I invite you to consider a powerful shift: what if you didn’t have to get anything out of this moment? Not growth. Not productivity. Not even calm. When we drop the need to constantly optimize or improve every second, we open ourselves to the quiet relief of simply being. This short reflection explores how allowing the moment to be enough can soften tension, ease anxiety, and help you return to peace—without needing to do a thing. Key Takeaway: Peace doesn’t always come from doing more. Sometimes it arises the moment you stop trying to change what is. Quote to Reflect On: “The moment is complete. You don’t need to add anything to it.” — Inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh Thanks for Listening! If this episode helped you take a breath, consider sharing it with someone who needs a moment of calm. Let’s Connect: Instagram: Email: Support the show: /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36827995

1752: Debunking the Premise of Just One Soulmate and One Passion 05/28/2025

1752: Debunking the Premise of Just One Soulmate and One Passion We lose our level of calm when we scrape and claw to find that one mythical soulmate or that one passion career. What if I told you that there isn’t just one perfect person, one perfect job/career? Today I talk about debunking a huge societal belief, one that may be keeping you stressed out. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - THANKS FOR LISTENING! Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review in Apple Podcasts! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36741675

1751: Silent Walks: A Simple Way to Restore Peace 05/28/2025

1751: Silent Walks: A Simple Way to Restore Peace What if calm was waiting just outside your door—and you didn’t need to take your phone with you? In this episode, we’ll explore the power of silent, no-input walks and how they help you reconnect with the present moment. Links from the Episode! Learn how to ease the pain of anxiety with meditation - THANKS FOR LISTENING! Be a part of the show! Send me a message: Email: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: Donate: Subscribe: | Rate and review in Apple Podcasts! /episode/index/show/fiveminutemojo/id/36741595

Calmer in Five

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