How To Die Happy

Welcome to the How to Die Happy podcast, where we explore the deep questions and issues surrounding life and death, introducing practical utilities for living well. Our hosts, Martin O'Toole and Julia Malcolmson, are joined by the one and only ⁠Lee Holden⁠, the international Qi Gong and meditation instructor, TV personality, and author, who was largely instrumental in bringing Qi Gong and other ancient Taoist teachings to Western culture. This episode is one you won't want to miss! Qi Gong, which translates to "cultivating energy," is an ancient Chinese practice that dates back thousands of years. It is a holistic system of coordinated body postures, movements, breathing, and meditation that promotes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Qi Gong is based on the principle that life force energy, also known as "qi," flows through the body, and by practising Qi Gong, we can cultivate and balance this energy for improved health and vitality. Over time, Qi Gong has evolved into different styles and schools, each with unique practices and teachings. Some popular styles include Medical Qi Gong, Taoist (or Daoist) Qi Gong, Buddhist Qi Gong, and Martial Arts Qi Gong. While these styles may differ in their approach and philosophy, they all share the fundamental goal of cultivating energy for healing and vitality. As interest in Eastern spiritual practices began to grow in the West in the 20th century, Qi Gong gained popularity outside of China. In the 1980s, Qi Gong became an officially recognised part of the Chinese healthcare system, and the Chinese government began promoting its practice as a means of improving public health. This helped to popularise Qi Gong further worldwide, and today it is practised by millions of people worldwide. Lee Holden is one of the leading voices in the global Qi Gong community. He has been teaching Qi Gong for over 30 years, and his teachings have helped to make this ancient practice accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Through his books, DVDs, and online courses, Lee has helped to spread the practice of Qi Gong around the world, inspiring countless individuals to cultivate more energy and vitality in their lives. In this episode of the How to Die Happy podcast, Lee shares his insights on the power of Qi Gong, the transformative effects of breathwork, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. He provides listeners with simple yet effective practices that they can incorporate into their daily routines, even if they're short on time. But what makes this episode truly special is Lee's storytelling. He shares personal tales of how Qi Gong has transformed his own life and the lives of his students, providing valuable insights into the mind-body connection and how we can use Qi Gong to tap into our innate healing abilities. So whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Qi Gong, this episode is a must-listen. You'll come away with a deeper understanding of the power of life force energy and the global movement that Qi Gong has become, as well as practical tips and insights to help you cultivate more energy and vitality in your own life. Tune in to episode #09 of the How To Die Happy podcast and discover the transformative power of Qi Gong with the legendary Lee Holden. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How to Die Happy podcast, where we explore the deep questions and issues surrounding life, death, and living well. In this episode, we delve into the complex topic of forgiveness with host Martin O'Toole and his guest Ryan Loftus. Both discuss forgiveness through personal lenses, and the conversation includes Martin's experience of completely forgiving the man who left him blind in one eye after a grievous assault. We examine the meaning and importance of forgiveness, exploring various religious and spiritual practices that emphasise its significance. Forgiveness is a vital life skill that involves learning how to forgive oneself and others. The ability to forgive requires strength, courage, and deep love for ourselves and those who have wronged us. It also requires a profound analysis of what forgiveness really means. Forgiveness is a complex concept addressed in many religions and spiritual practices. In Buddhism, forgiveness is considered essential to achieving enlightenment. The Buddha's teaching emphasises the importance of letting go of anger and resentment to achieve peace in life. Similarly, in Christianity, forgiveness is seen as a virtue essential to a good Christian life. Jesus' teaching emphasises the importance of continually forgiving, no matter how many times we have been wronged. In Confucianism, forgiveness is viewed as an essential part of social harmony. Forgiveness is crucial for maintaining relationships and building a strong community. Taoism teaches that forgiveness is a way to cultivate compassion and kindness towards ourselves and others. Forgiveness is ultimately about letting go of our pain and anger, and by accepting what has happened and choosing to move forward, we can transform our lives and find inner peace. Learning how to forgive is not always easy, and it can take a lot of time and effort. But acceptance is vital to forgiveness, and learning to accept the things we cannot change is an extraordinary life skill. Acceptance allows us to let go of our anger and resentment and focus on the present moment. It helps us recognise that we cannot change the past but can choose how we respond to it. The alternative is to bear a grudge, which serves no one. Whether you are struggling to forgive someone who has hurt you or seeking forgiveness for something you have done, this episode of the How to Die Happy podcast offers valuable insights and advice. Martin and Ryan provide a thoughtful and compassionate exploration of the complex topic of forgiveness, sharing personal experiences and exploring different concepts. Throughout the episode, we discuss how to forgive others and how to forgive yourself. Forgiveness is an essential part of achieving inner peace and living a happy life. We emphasise that forgiveness is not about forgetting or condoning harmful behaviour but rather about letting go of our pain and anger. Forgiveness is a process that takes time and effort, but it is ultimately about choosing to move forward and finding peace. In conclusion, forgiveness is a complicated and essential life skill that requires strength, courage, and deep love for ourselves and others. It is a process that involves accepting what has happened and choosing to move forward. This episode of the How to Die Happy podcast provides valuable insights and advice on how to forgive and how to forgive yourself and others. Join us for this thoughtful and compassionate exploration of the problematic topic of forgiveness. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where we explore happiness, mental health, and the art of living well. In this episode, we're joined by Lauren Lovatt, a London-based plant-based chef and founder of Feed Your Mind Candy and the Plant Academy. Lauren's passion for plant-based cooking and eating is driven by her own struggles with mental health, which she has learned to manage through healthy and nourishing food. Lauren's new cookbook, Mind Food, is all about using plant-based ingredients to promote mental health and wellness. In our conversation, Lauren shares her insights on the transformative power of food and how it can be used to support mental well-being. We begin our conversation by exploring the science behind how food affects our mental health. Did you know that a healthy diet can reduce the risk of depression by up to 30%? On the other hand, a diet high in processed foods and sugar can increase the risk of developing depression. Lauren speaks candidly about her own struggles with mental health and how food has played a critical role in her healing journey. She discusses the concept of "mind-healing food", and how her recipes are designed to nourish both the body and mind. We also talk about the impact of unhealthy eating on our well-being and how eating clean can promote a positive mindset. If you're someone who struggles to enjoy vegetables, Lauren also shares some tips on how to make plant-based foods taste delicious. She also introduces us to the world of plant-based desserts, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. We also delve into the topic of suicide and how food can play a role in suicide prevention. Studies have shown that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is associated with a lower risk of suicidal ideation. Lauren explains how her approach to cooking and eating is about prevention and promoting a healthy mindset. Lauren's work is a testament to the idea that food can be medicine and that eating clean can have a profound impact on our mental health. Her Plant Academy in East London is a hub for like-minded individuals to come together and learn about the transformative power of food. With a focus on sustainability and creativity, Lauren's classes and events inspire participants to explore new ideas and techniques in plant-based cooking. In this episode of the How To Die Happy podcast, Lauren shares her journey and the transformative power of plant-based eating. Her passion for creating delicious and nutritious meals that nourish the body and mind is contagious, and her insights are sure to inspire listeners to take a more mindful approach to their eating habits. If you're interested in learning more about Lauren's approach to plant-based cooking and eating for mental well-being, be sure to check out her website. And remember to grab a copy of her new cookbook, Mind Food, for some delicious, mind-nourishing recipes. To wrap up, we can confidently say that food does indeed affect our mental health, and Lauren's work is proof of this. Eating clean, plant-based meals can reduce the risk of developing mental health problems and promote a positive mindset. So why not give it a try? Incorporating more plant-based ingredients into your diet could be the key to living a happier and healthier life. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where we explore the art of living and dying well. In this episode, host Martin O'Toole and his friend Richie discuss their first Ayahuasca experience, the ceremonial use of psychedelics, and the transformative healing potential of DMT. Ayahuasca, also known as the "vine of the souls," is a potent brew made from the bark of the Banisteriopsis Caapi vine and the leaves of a shrub called Chacruna. It has been used for centuries by indigenous communities in the Amazon Basin for its incredible healing properties. The common thread in any variation of this mixture is the powerful psychedelic compound DMT. During their first Ayahuasca ceremony, Martin and Richie experienced a transformative level of healing for their mental health issues. While Ayahuasca was first discovered by an English botanist in 1851, physical evidence of the brew's use dates back as far as 1,000 AD. Martin shares his experiences working with Ayahuasca plant medicine in Peru and the Brazilian Amazon with the Noke Kuin (Katukina) tribe. The Noke Kuin say that Ayahuasca and countless other psychedelic healing plants have been used in the Amazon Basin since the dawn of time. From the beginning, the indigenous people knew of the medicine's powerful healing properties and function, allowing second sight and access to the spirit realm. As the conversation unfolds, Martin and Richie discuss the safety of Ayahuasca and its potential as a treatment for anxiety, depression, and addiction. While it can be a powerful and transformative experience, it should only be taken under the guidance of an experienced shaman or facilitator. But for those suffering from mental health issues, Ayahuasca could be a life-changing treatment. Western medicine is beginning to recognise the profound benefits of psychedelics, and leading addiction psychologist Gabor Maté regularly works with them. In fact, Port Townsend became the 13th American city to decriminalise psychedelics in December 2021, and even celebrity Will Smith has admitted to working with the medicine. Ancient therapies like Ayahuasca have always been essential to unlocking human potential on a level that will forever change the psychiatric, pharmaceutical, and mental health arenas. Once criminalised and vilified, these medicines are now on the brink of a global evolution in treating mental illness. If you're interested in the widespread use of ancient alternative medicines for mental health, you'll love this episode. In recent weeks, there has been a growing trend that supports the analysis published in an American Medical Association journal last month, which predicted that a majority of US states will legalise psychedelics by 2037. Based on statistical modelling of policy trends, this study suggests that the use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes will become increasingly mainstream in the years to come. It seems that we are on the cusp of a global shift towards a more open-minded approach to mental health treatment, with ancient alternative medicines like Ayahuasca, Huachuma, and Psilocybin mushrooms playing an essential role in this evolution. Join us for an informative and eye-opening conversation about Ayahuasca, its incredible healing properties, and its potential role in the future of mental health and well-being. Special thanks to Andres, Pajé Peno, Mõcha, Tamá, and the Noke Kuin for contributing to this episode (which includes a short interview and recording of the tribe during an Ayahuasca ceremony). To answer whether Ayahuasca is good for anxiety or can be a treatment for depression, Martin and Richie share their personal experiences with plant medicine. While Ayahuasca is not a cure-all, it has shown incredible promise in helping people with mental health issues, including addiction. The question is no longer whether psychedelics can heal mental illness but rather how we can best utilise these medicines to help those who need it most. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, a show dedicated to exploring the meaning of life, happiness, mindfulness, and the ultimate end we all must face. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with the inspiring Mia Nurislamov, a 9-year-old girl with a passion for rescuing Bali dogs and other animals in need. Mia's journey began when she arrived in Bali, only to be confronted with the vast number of sick and homeless street dogs on the island. She knew she had to do something to help, and what started as a homeschooling project quickly became a full-fledged mission to create a safe haven for these neglected furry creatures. Through her GoFundMe campaign, Mia raised enough money to rent land and build Mia's Healing Sanctuary for animals, a place where dogs and other animals can receive the care they need and deserve. Mia's passion for rescuing Bali dogs is truly exceptional, and her story is an inspiration to all who hear it. Bali dogs have a long and difficult history on the island. It's estimated that there are over 500,000 stray dogs in Bali, and many of them suffer from disease, malnutrition, and abuse. Organisations like BAWA (Bali Animal Welfare Association) work tirelessly to provide medical care, vaccinations, and sterilisation programs to help control the population of stray dogs. The documentary "Island of the Dogs" also sheds light on the plight of Bali dogs and the efforts to rescue them. It's a heart-wrenching but inspiring film that showcases the compassion and dedication of those working to make a difference. In this episode, our hosts, Martin O'Toole and Julia Malcolmson, talk with Mia about her passion for pet rescue, the importance of finding purpose in life, and how to find happiness even in the face of death. Mia's story is a testament to the power of one person's compassion and determination to make a difference in the world. If you're interested in learning more about Bali dogs, Bali dog rescue, Bali dogs for adoption, or the Bali dogs documentary, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore Mia's journey and the incredible work she's doing to make the world a better place for animals in need. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to episode 06 of the How To Die Happy podcast, where we explore different approaches to living a fulfilled life. In this episode, hosts Martin O'Toole and Julia Malcolmson sit down with Waylon Lewis, a Buddhist and founder of Elephant Journal — an online mindfulness magazine. Waylon's new book, It's Never Too Late to Fall in Love with Your Life, offers practical tips for a more mindful life path. But first, let's have a brief introduction to Buddhism. Buddhism is a religion and philosophy that originated in ancient India over 2,500 years ago. It emphasises mindfulness, the practice of being present in the moment and fully engaged in one's surroundings. Buddhism also promotes mental health by encouraging individuals to be compassionate and kind to themselves and others. Returning to our episode, Martin and Julia talk to Waylon about his journey towards Buddhism and how it has influenced his life. They discuss mindfulness, the importance of being present, and how this approach can lead to greater mental well-being. Waylon shares his personal experiences, including a recent incident where a dog bit him.  The conversation also touches on the unique culture of Boulder, Colorado, where Waylon and Elephant Journal are based. They explore the intersection of mindfulness, the environment, and social justice and how we can work towards a more mindful and sustainable future. To wrap up the episode, Martin warmly welcomes Julia as the new co-host of the How To Die Happy podcast. They express their excitement for upcoming episodes and guests and how they hope to continue exploring different approaches to living a fulfilling life. So, whether you're a seasoned Buddhist or simply looking to bring more mindfulness into your daily routine, this episode offers valuable insights into the practice and philosophy of Buddhism and how it can help us all live happier, more fulfilling lives. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where we explore the various aspects of living a fulfilling life. In this episode, host Martin O'Toole speaks with Bianca Raby, a former teacher and education expert, about a surprisingly common childhood behavioural problem known as scatolia or "Poo art." Before we dive into the episode, let's discuss childhood trauma and its symptoms, including scatolia. Childhood trauma refers to any experience that causes physical or emotional harm to a child. Trauma can lead to various symptoms, including depression, anxiety, aggression, and self-harm. Scatolia is a type of self-harm that involves smearing or playing with faeces. It can be a sign of trauma or other underlying issues and should be addressed by a medical professional. Returning to our episode, Martin and Bianca discuss Martin's childhood experience with scatolia and how it affected him. They explore the underlying causes of this behaviour and how it relates to childhood trauma. Bianca offers insights into how teachers and parents can support children dealing with trauma and other behavioural issues. The conversation also touches on the importance of grounding techniques, such as mindfulness and meditation, for individuals dealing with trauma or mental health challenges. Martin and Bianca offer practical tips for incorporating these practices into daily life, and how they can help individuals feel more present and connected to their surroundings. So, whether you're a parent dealing with a child's behavioural issues or struggling with your own mental health challenges, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies for navigating these difficult situations. And, as Martin mentions, if you have any recollections of your own rectal digging or poo art, you may find some humour and relatability in this episode. But, as always, the conversation goes deeper than the surface-level topic, exploring the complexities of childhood trauma and mental health. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where we explore various paths to happiness and fulfilment. In this episode, hosts Martin O'Toole and Chris Siracuse had the pleasure of speaking with Kartika Alexandra, an acclaimed Indonesian integrated hypnotherapist and founder of Maja Healing in Bali. Before diving into the episode, let's explore the concept of integrated hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that uses hypnosis to access the subconscious mind, allowing for a deeper understanding of oneself and the potential for healing. An integrated hypnotherapist combines various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and regression healing, to address a range of mental health concerns, including trauma and anxiety. In this episode, Kartika shares her expertise in the healing power of the subconscious mind and the transformative effects of hypnotherapy. The conversation explores the connection between science and spirituality and how this understanding can enhance our mental health and overall well-being. Kartika also offers insights into bridging the gap between Eastern and Western approaches to therapy, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding. The discussion also touches on death and dying and how hypnotherapy can offer a unique perspective on this universal human experience. Kartika shares her experiences with clients navigating end-of-life care and how hypnotherapy can offer a sense of peace and acceptance. Overall, this episode is a fascinating and energised exploration of the power of the mind, the potential for healing through hypnotherapy, and the connection between spirituality and science. Whether you are familiar with hypnotherapy or new to the concept, Kartika's insights are sure to leave you feeling inspired and empowered to take control of your mental health and well-being. So, put on your headphones, relax, and get ready to dive into the world of integrated hypnotherapy. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Have you ever seen, heard, or felt a ghost? Do you know someone who has? Do you believe in ghosts or think they're a total figment of the imagination? Either way, you'll find this podcast entertaining. Oh, and you might not want to listen to this in the dark. Just saying. With Halloween just around the corner, in this How To Die Happy Podcast Chinwag, our hosts Martin O'Toole and Chris Siracuse trade ghost stories and talk about the afterlife. From living in a haunted house as a child to communing with an ex-girlfriend's dead aunt, Martin, as it transpires, has had his fair share of spooky experiences. So, what are ghosts? Ghosts, also known as apparitions, are believed to be the spirits or souls of deceased people that continue to exist in some form after death. Ghost stories and sightings have been around for centuries and continue to fascinate and terrify people to this day. While there's no scientific evidence that ghosts exist, some people believe in them based on personal experiences, religious or cultural beliefs, or as a way to explain unexplained phenomena. But is there such a thing as life after death? The famous and widely discussed AWARE study, conducted by Dr Sam Parnia and his team, attempted to prove the existence of life after death by studying near-death experiences (NDEs). The study found that some people who were clinically dead had vivid experiences, such as seeing a bright light or encountering deceased loved ones, before being resuscitated. While the study was criticised for its methodology and small sample size, it remains a point of interest for those curious about the possibility of an afterlife. In this podcast, Martin and Chris share their personal experiences with ghosts and explore the concept of the afterlife. Whether you're a believer or a sceptic, this episode will surely be a spine-tingling ride. So grab your headphones, turn on the lights, and prepare to be entertained (and maybe a little scared). --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy Podcast, where we explore the art of living and all things related to happiness, fulfilment, and well-being. In this episode, Martin O'Toole talks to ⁠Chris Plow⁠, Bitcoin and crypto analyst and coach. What is money? In this must-listen show, Martin and Chris take a deep dive into the history of money, the illusion of fiat currency, and the house of cards that is our current financial system. The star of the show? Bitcoin — "the greatest asymmetric bet of all time", according to our passionate and articulate expert guest. "Money is energy", he says. If you're new to crypto, need help understanding the fragile nature of our global monetary policies and systems, and are keen to learn more about Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, then you'll likely find this conversation fascinating. Former banker Chris Plow is a Bitcoiner through and through, and he has a lot to share about the future of the global economy. Chris explains that “money is energy”, what Bitcoin is, its origins, and the technology behind it. He explains why he believes it's a revolutionary technology that has the potential to change the way we think about money and value. He also dispels some common myths and misconceptions around Bitcoin. If you want to learn how to trade crypto effectively, Chris shares some valuable tips and insights. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a complete newbie, this podcast has something for everyone. While the world is still grappling with COVID-19 insanity, governments and central banks worldwide are exploring the potential of launching their own digital currencies (which will notably not be decentralised but centralised, thus programmable money). In this episode, Chris talks about the oncoming launch of Central Bank Digital Currencies and how they might impact the global financial system. Tune in to learn more about Bitcoin and the future of money in this thought-provoking episode of the How To Die Happy Podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

"The German Professor" WARNING: This conversation contains details that some listeners may find triggering due to the descriptive nature of this tale. Welcome to the How To Die Happy Podcast, where we explore the art of living and all things related to happiness, fulfilment, well-being, and life on earth. In this Chinwag episode, host Martin O'Toole speaks with Chris Siracuse about the experience of defending oneself against forceful or violent sexual advances. Using Martin's personal story of an amorous German gent who crossed a line, they discuss the topic with sensitivity, humour, and empathy. While the tone of this episode may be light-hearted, the discussion is rooted in a serious issue. Unwanted sexual advances, whether homosexual or heterosexual, are unfortunately not uncommon. In fact, a survey conducted by the CDC found that 1 in 8 men reported experiencing sexual violence, including rape, in their lifetime. Of those men, approximately 1 in 6 reported that their first experience of sexual violence occurred before the age of 18. The phenomenon of unwanted homosexual advances on heterosexual men is often overlooked or dismissed, but it is a reality that many men have experienced. A study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that 12% of men reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact with another man at some point in their lives. While this may seem like a small percentage, it is essential to note that sexual violence and harassment are often underreported, so the true number may be higher. The conversation between Martin and Chris sheds light on the importance of having open and honest discussions about sexual violence, no matter the circumstances. It's a reminder that sexual assault and harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or any other factor. By sharing their own experiences, they hope to encourage others to speak out and seek support if they ever find themselves in a similar situation. Note: While the story in this episode is delivered with humour and empathy, we want to make it clear that we do not condone or excuse any form of sexual violence or harassment. It is never acceptable, and we stand with survivors and those who have experienced such trauma. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

In this episode of the How To Die Happy podcast, hosts Martin O'Toole and Chris Siracuse talk to ⁠Rebecca Jax, a woman whose life took a dramatic turn after discovering the body of her brother Jack, who died by suicide three and a half years ago. Coping with a family member's suicide can be an incredibly challenging experience, and so Rebecca's healing journey will surely inspire listeners. Rebecca's transformative process of alternative healing led her to change her life plans altogether, becoming a healer herself, helping others to overcome their grief and loss. In this episode, the hosts and Rebecca delve deep into the emotional rollercoaster that can come with suicide and loss, discussing grief, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. The growing global pandemic of suicide is a heart-breaking issue affecting countless individuals and families worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is the fourth leading cause of death for people aged 15-29, with around 800,000 people taking their own lives every year. That's one person every 40 seconds. The numbers are staggering, and we must take action to raise awareness and support those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or coping with the loss of a loved one to suicide. The topic of suicide is close to the podcast's heart, as our own creator, Martin, also once struggled profoundly with depression, almost taking his life in 2015. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or coping with depression or anxiety, help is available. The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) offers a list of helplines and crisis centres worldwide. In the United States, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential support 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). This episode of the How To Die Happy podcast offers a raw and honest conversation about suicide and loss but also provides hope and inspiration for those who may be struggling. It's a reminder that healing and transformation are possible, even in the face of such devastating circumstances. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where our host, Martin O'Toole, shares his personal experiences on the journey to self-discovery with humour, love, and consideration for those suffering the human condition. In our second Chinwag, Martin recounts the story of how Macy the Beagle saved him from attempting suicide. Macy was Martin's "angel in a furcoat" who accompanied him through some of the most challenging years of his life and even travelled with him from London to Bali for more adventures. However, one day, Macy never came home. This episode delves into the sensitive topics of suicide and depression, and Martin shares another vulnerable story from his less-than-dull journey to self-discovery. He shares how his relationship with Macy helped him through some of the darkest moments of his life and how her loss affected him deeply. Despite the heavy subject matter, the podcast is delivered with Martin's trademark humour, care, and due deference. Dogs have a uniquely close relationship with humans, having been domesticated for thousands of years. They have been bred for various purposes, from hunting and herding to companionship and emotional support. In fact, dogs are often referred to as "man's best friend" for their loyalty and unconditional love. Interestingly, dogs are also known for their instinct to go somewhere quiet to die. This behaviour has been observed in various breeds and is believed to be an evolutionary adaptation to protect the pack from disease or predators. While this may seem sad, it also highlights the deep connection dogs have with their human companions, often staying by their side until the very end. Sadly, attempted suicide is a growing issue worldwide, with millions of people attempting suicide each year. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 800,000 people die by suicide every year, with many more trying but not succeeding. In fact, for every successful suicide attempt, there may be as many as 20 unsuccessful attempts that go unreported. Join Martin as he explores the complexities of depression and the power of the human-animal bond. Tune in to the How To Die Happy podcast to hear more stories and insights on living a meaningful and fulfilling life. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where our host Martin O'Toole shares his personal experiences and insights on the journey to self-discovery. The podcast explores how we can live a fulfilling and meaningful existence, even in the face of life's challenges and uncertainties. In episode 02 of the How To Die Happy podcast, Martin O'Toole and Chris Siracuse interview ⁠Carl Honoré⁠, the internationally bestselling author and pioneer of the "Slowness movement." Carl's first book, In Praise of Slow, published in 2004, sparked a global movement that aims to counter the culture of speed that pervades modern society. His subsequent books, including The Slow Fix, Under Pressure, and Bolder, offer practical tips and insights on how to slow down and live a more fulfilling life. Carl is a witty and insightful speaker, and in this charming and lighthearted episode, he explains why we should all take the time to slow down. He believes that the virus of hurry infects every aspect of our lives, from work and relationships to food and sex. He advocates for a more balanced and mindful approach to living that emphasises quality over quantity. Slowing down has numerous mental, physical, and spiritual benefits. It can reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance creativity, and foster deeper connections with ourselves and others. Many ancient Eastern philosophies, such as Taoism and Buddhism, emphasise the importance of stillness and mindfulness in achieving inner peace and harmony. In this episode, Carl shares his personal experiences with slowing down and how it has transformed his life. From practising meditation and yoga to taking breaks from technology and embracing the joy of slow food, Carl shows us how slowing down can lead to a happier and healthier life. He also offers practical tips on how to slow down and cultivate mindfulness in every moment. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed and burnt out by the fast-paced modern world, tune in to the How To Die Happy podcast and hear from the insightful Carl Honoré about why slowing down is the key to a fulfilling life. Martin, Chris, and Carl's conversation is full of humour, love, and consideration, making it an enjoyable listen for anyone looking to improve their quality of life. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message

Welcome to the How To Die Happy podcast, where host Martin O'Toole takes you on a journey of self-discovery peppering serious conversations with humour and loving-kindness. In addition to our main episodes, we'll have the occasional "Chinwag", where Martin has a random chat with a select buddy. And in our first Chinwag, Martin spills the beans to his friend Chris Siracuse about his experience with the Illuminati recruitment process after being approached via Instagram. The Illuminati is a secret society that has intrigued people for centuries, with its alleged members rumoured to include powerful individuals from all walks of life. While the origins of the Illuminati are shrouded in mystery, many believe it was founded in Bavaria in the late 18th century by a man named Adam Weishaupt. Some historians have suggested that the Illuminati may have had links to the Freemasons, another secret society with centuries-old roots, who have been rumoured to have had a hand in the creation of the Illuminati. Martin shares his personal experience of being contacted by the Illuminati and his initial excitement at the prospect of joining. But don't worry; he's not a full supporter. Instead, he offers a balanced view of the society, sharing his scepticism about their claims of a new age of abundance and warning of the dangers of blindly following any group or organisation. According to the book "Illuminatiam: The First Testament Of The Illuminati", the Illuminati's Universal Design has spanned centuries to safeguard the human species from extinction and usher in a new age of abundance for all. The book speaks of the Illuminati's first testament, which reveals the organisation's role in history and secrets of wealth and prosperity that are countless years old. It also discusses how to join the Illuminati in the coming age and one's true purpose in this world. Whether you believe the Illuminati to be a sinister cabal or a benevolent group working for the betterment of humanity, their influence has captured the imagination of people for centuries and will likely continue to do so for many years to come. If you're curious about the Illuminati and want to hear Martin's intriguing story, tune in to our first Chinwag episode. You'll hear about the recruitment process, alleged connections between the Illuminati and other secret societies, and Martin and Chris's scepticism about the group's claims. And who knows, maybe you'll even learn something that will help you on your own journey to self-discovery. Thanks for listening to the How To Die Happy podcast! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/howtodiehappy/message