We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

The written word has played a significant role in human growth and development.

The first written language is believed to have emerged in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) around 3200 BCE, serving as a form of record-keeping. Writing continues to be crucial for societies and individuals, as a foundational source of communicating ideas and feelings.

Writing poetry has always been important because it offers a unique way to explore complex ideas, express difficult emotions, and form deeper connections with others. It has been shown to enhance literacy skills, foster empathy, and allow students a sense of self-expression and reflection.

The written word is one of the most fundamental social and technological advancements that have shaped our world. It is essential to recognize those who have learned to utilize it in ways that support the growth and development of others.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Six of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with award-winning novelist, poet, songwriter, and editor Wyn Cooper. Wyn has published five books of poetry, with a sixth book scheduled for release in 2026. His poems, stories, essays, and reviews have appeared in publications such as The New Yorker, The Paris Review, Poetry, and more than 100 other magazines. In 1993, “Fun,” a poem from his first book, was turned into Sheryl Crow’s Grammy-winning song “All I Wanna Do,” while other songs have been featured on six television shows.

Join us as we talk to Wyn about his journey with the natural world and the written word, his incredible work in the entertainment and writing worlds, and his desire to help others achieve their goals.

Wyn discusses the need for community, the power of a postcard, the story of how his poem became a song that became a global phenomenon, and offers tips for anyone who has ever wanted to start down the path of becoming a writer of any kind.

He even took time to share some of his poetry with us.

All we wanted to do was have some fun…and WE DID!!

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Wyn's Website with links to many of his works: www.wyncooper.com

Wyn's Novel, Way Out West: http://www.concordepress.com/

Wyn's most recent book of poems, Mars Poetica, and forthcoming book, The Unraveling: www.whitepinepress.org

Madonna student film on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DUfsUW7RJs&list=RD2DUfsUW7RJs&start_radio=1

Most of Wyn's books can also be purchased at Bookshop.org,

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

Music has always been an essential part of the human experience, with archaeological evidence suggesting it dates back to at least 40,000 years ago.

With health and wellness benefits such as emotional expression, stress relief, mood enhancement, increased creativity, and enhanced cognitive function, it is easy to see why humans have always felt connected to music.

Few things have brought us together as a species, like the power of music. Music helps individuals feel more connected to their community and a stronger sense of belonging through shared experiences and emotional connection.

Music transcends language, social, and cultural barriers, creating a sense of unity and belonging among diverse groups.

Music has also raised awareness about social and political issues, inspiring action and promoting positive change.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Five of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with acclaimed singer, songwriter, and banjo-wielding melodist Justin Lansing. A Grammy-winning Okee Dokee Brothers member, Justin entertains crowds of all ages. Recently, he decided to write and record his first solo album, "Rocky Mountain Time."

Join us as we talk to Justin about his musical journey, the importance of flow state for musicians, how approaching a solo project has fueled his musical creativity, and how coming home to Colorado greatly impacted him in all areas of life,

Justin discusses the power of community, the lost art of committing to essential things, and how music has always been a critical "therapy" for his mental and emotional health.

He even shared some of his therapy by playing the title track of his new album "Rocky Mountain Time."

This conversation was music to our ears, literally.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Justin's Website: https://www.justinlansingmusic.com/

Justin's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/7BuUH9xkpDCg3ojNIP4wqB?si=g1vlIrSVTtmM2SEJvEs_fw&nd=1&dlsi=fe3c10402b0d4693

Justin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justin.lansing/

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.

We'd love to hear from you about this episode.

One thing I know for sure is that humans deal with many things. Our headlines are filled with economic insecurity, technological advancements, environmental struggles, geopolitical issues, and social division.

Sometimes, life feels fast, cluttered, and noisy. We struggle to connect with our communities and crave presence and peace.

We seek resources and opportunities to help us deliberately slow down and experience recovery and restoration.

Retreat centers offer time away from our daily lives, providing a structured environment that encourages reflection, social connection, spiritual growth, and personal development.

They allow individuals or groups to disconnect from common distractions intentionally, focus on specific goals, and experience a sense of holistic renewal.

Welcome to Episode Sixty-Four of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!!

In this episode, we spoke with Don Oakley and Patty Bottari, Founders of the Well Being Retreat Center in Tazewell, Tennessee. Situated on 160 acres within a 2 ½ mile bend of the scenic Powell River, the retreat center provides a venue for various instructors in Yoga, Nature appreciation, movement, meditation, and healthy living.

Join us as we discuss Don and Patty's incredible journey together, how they found and settled on this incredible property, the organic growth and offerings at WBRC, and their love affair with the natural world.

They discuss the power of honoring and integrating into a community, the intentionality of the property's design and function to encourage renewal and growth, and their commitment to being stewards of the land.

Mark recently attended a nature retreat at WBRC and discussed the magic that he experienced.

This conversation left us feeling renewed and rejuvenated.

Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast.

We appreciate you all.

Be Well

-NOW ™️

Well Being Retreat Center Website: https://www.wellbeingretreatcenter.org/

Don's Books: https://www.wellbeingretreatcenter.org/category/all-products

Well Being Retreat Center "What is It?" Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXOElSdYWj4

* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.

** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan.

*** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.