Bonnie Gray - Soul Care Coach and Author of Sweet Like Jasmine, Whispers of Rest, and Finding Spiritual Whitespace
Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast hosted by Christian author Bonnie Gray is dedicated to refreshing your soul with rest and sparking joy, so you can feel God’s l...
3 Truths to Break Free from All-or-Nothing Thinking & Step into God’s Peace-Filled Purpose #157
Do you ever feel like if you can’t do it all—and do it perfectly—it’s not even worth starting? That’s the trap of all-or-nothing thinking. It quietly fuels shame, burnout, and discouragement—keeping you stuck and unsure how to move forward.In this episode, Bonnie shares a heartfelt (and slightly nerdy!) story about her love for sci-fi and how it reveals a deeper truth about the spiritual journey: God never asks us to grow at warp speed. Instead, He invites us to take small, grace-filled steps at His pace of peace.You’ll learn 3 truths from scripture and the “Law of the Harvest” to help you release pressure, overcome perfectionism, and step confidently into what God is calling you to do—with emotional wellness and peace leading the way.Tune into this episode to stop waiting for the perfect moment—and start walking in your God-inspired purpose with peace and clarity. Key Takeaways:- Why all-or-nothing thinking keeps you from peace, purpose, and progress- How to reframe growth as a slow, soul-nourishing journey with God- 3 biblical truths to break free from pressure and procrastination- A science-backed soul care practice to calm your nervous system and spark motivationHow to feel emotionally safe to take your next brave step with GodBreath Prayer:(inhale) The nearness of God is my good…(exhale) I am safe in His love.Scripture: Psalm 73:28 — “But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may tell of all Your works.” If you’re ready to stop living under pressure—and start walking in God’s peace-filled purpose—join me for the Lent Wellness Study at mysoulcareschool.com.Together, we’ll journey through 6 weeks of prayer, scripture, and soul care practices designed to restore your emotional wellness and deepen your connection with Jesus.You don’t have to do it all. Just take one grace-filled step at a time. Sign up today and let’s walk this healing path together.LINKS & RESOURCES- Sign Up for NEW 6-Week "Lent Wellness Study! https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/- Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!- Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/- Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegray Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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13:56
The Surprising Way to Overcome Fear of Criticism & Move Forward in Faith with God #156
Have you ever held back from stepping into something new because you feared what others might think? Do you overthink decisions, worrying about making mistakes or being judged? If so, you're not alone. Fear of criticism can keep us stuck—whether it’s launching something new, sharing our story, or simply allowing ourselves to enjoy life without guilt.In this episode, Bonnie explores why fear of criticism holds us back and how Jesus invites us to step forward in faith. You’ll hear a powerful parable from Jesus about the mustard seed, learn a science-backed way to retrain your brain to move forward with peace, and discover a simple yet powerful shift that can change everything.Learn to: Recognize how fear of others' opinions may be holding you back Break free from perfectionism and self-doubt Apply Jesus' wisdom from the mustard seed parable to step forward with courage Use a science-backed technique to rewire your brain for peace and renewal Cultivate small moments of joy that will fuel your faith and confidenceTune into this episode to: Gain biblical encouragement to overcome fear and walk in renewal Discover how even small steps of faith can lead to big transformation Learn a practical, science-based way to rewire your brain for resilience Feel uplifted by a personal story that will inspire you to look up and step forwardKey Takeaways:• Fear of criticism can lead to decision paralysis, but Jesus calls us to focus on His voice, not others’ opinions.• The mustard seed parable teaches us that even small faith can move mountains of fear.• Science shows that small moments of joy—like savoring beauty or deep breathing—can rewire the brain for peace.• Looking up to God’s love, rather than down at our fears, helps us step into renewal with confidence.Breath Prayer: (Inhale) God, I trust you with small beginnings. (Exhale) Help me let go of fear and step forward in faith.Scripture: "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." — Matthew 17:20Don’t keep this encouragement to yourself! Share this episode with a friend who needs a little more courage today. And if this message blessed you, would you take a moment to leave a review? Your words help others find peace and renewal in Jesus. LINKS & RESOURCES- Sign Up for NEW 6-Week "Lent Wellness Study! https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/- Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!- Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/- Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegraySubscribe now to Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast and start living with more calm, joy, and renewal today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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15:49
Two Powerful Ways to Break Free from Perfectionism: How God’s Love Helps You Let Go of Self-Doubt and Stress #155
Have you ever felt paralyzed by the fear of making a mistake? Do you struggle with self-doubt, feeling like whatever you do is never enough? Perfectionism steals our peace, trapping us in an exhausting cycle of self-criticism and pressure. But friend, God never asked us to be perfect—He invites us to be perfectly loved.In this episode, Bonnie explores why perfectionism keeps us stuck and how God's love frees us from performance pressure. She shares two science-backed soul care practices to help you break free and a powerful story—Sink or Swim—to show how God carries us through our fears with His love.Learn to: Recognize the hidden fears behind perfectionism Reframe failure as a learning opportunity through God’s grace Rest in God’s love rather than relying on performance Apply two soul care practices backed by science and scriptureTune into this episode to: Release the weight of perfectionism and embrace God’s love Discover how Jesus' words in Matthew 5:48 call us to grow in love, not performance Find freedom through resilience-building soul care strategies Experience peace as you let go of self-criticism and lean into God’s graceKey Takeaways:Perfectionism is rooted in fear, not high standards. Studies show it leads to anxiety, stress, and even procrastination.God never expects perfection—only a heart growing in love. Jesus invites us into grace, not performance.Reframing failure as learning reduces anxiety and builds resilience.Self-compassion is key to overcoming perfectionism. Research confirms that those who practice self-compassion experience less stress and burnout.You don’t have to prove yourself to God—you are already fully loved. Breath Prayer:(Inhale) Nothing can separate me from God’s love.(Exhale) I am fully loved just as I am. Scripture: "Nothing can separate me from God's Love Romans 8:38-39Did this episode encourage you? Share it with a friend who needs this message today. And if this spoke to your heart, leave a quick review—it helps more women find peace and God’s love through this podcast. You are loved. You are cherished. Just rest. LINKS & RESOURCES- Sign Up for NEW 6-Week "Lent Wellness Study! https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/- Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!- Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/- Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegraySubscribe now to Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast and start living with more calm, joy, and renewal today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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16:26
3 Lies That Keep You Stuck in Procrastination & the Truths That Set You Free #154
Do you ever find yourself procrastinating—not because you don’t want to take action, but because of fear, pressure, or self-doubt? Maybe you've been feeling stuck, but deep down, you want to move forward in wellness, joy, and peace. What if I told you that procrastination isn't about laziness, but about hidden lies we've unknowingly believed?In this episode, Bonnie explores the three common lies that keep us stuck in the procrastination loop and reveals three soul care strategies—rooted in both science and scripture—that will set you free.Learn to: Hear God's words of affirmation to combat lies that keep you stuck Recognize the real reasons behind procrastination and why willpower alone won’t break the cycle Apply science-backed strategies to release guilt and move forward with ease Shift from pressure to peace using biblical truth and soul care practicesTune into this episode to: Discover God's truth to combat lies to overcome procrastinationDiscover how self-forgiveness can lower procrastination by 20–30% Learn why breaking tasks into small, soul-nourishing steps helps you gain momentum Unlock the power of motivation by connecting with your God-given “why”Key Takeaways:- Replace 3 lies with 3 truths from God's word to break procrastination- Procrastination isn’t about time management—it’s rooted in fear, pressure, and overwhelm.- Self-forgiveness reduces procrastination and helps you break free from guilt and shame.- Small, actionable steps help transform overwhelming tasks into manageable, joyful moments.- Motivation flows when we connect with our true “why” instead of forcing ourselves to push harder.Breath Prayer:Inhale: "We rely on the love God has for us"Exhale: "perfect love drives out fear" Scripture: "We rely on the love God has for us. God is love. There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear." 1 John 4:16-18 Soul Care Tip: 3 ways to overcome procrastination: self-forgiveness, take small steps, and don't force, but focus on why.P.S. Enjoying the Breathe Podcast? Please take a moment to share this episode with a friend and leave a quick rating & review! Your words help this soul care community grow. LINKS & RESOURCES- Sign Up for NEW 6-Week "Lent Wellness Study! https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/- Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!- Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/- Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegraySubscribe now to Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast and start living with more calm, joy, and renewal today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
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20:46
Feeling Drained? How to Break Free from Exhaustion & Experience God’s Renewal #153
Do you ever feel like you're just pushing through life, running on empty, and wondering if your best days are behind you? Maybe you've been carrying the weight of responsibilities, trying to hold everything together, yet deep inside, you feel drained and stuck. If that resonates, take a deep breath—God has something fresh and life-giving for you today.In this episode, Bonnie explores how emotional and physical exhaustion can block renewal—and how burnout isn’t just about doing too much, but about the weight we carry inside. Through scripture, personal storytelling, and a powerful scientific insight, you'll discover how to break free from the cycle of exhaustion and step into the renewal God is already bringing into your life.Learn to: Recognize the hidden emotional burdens that contribute to burnout Shift your mindset from just “getting through” to experiencing real renewal Use a simple breath prayer based on Isaiah 43:19 to refresh your heart Rewire your brain for peace by replacing negative voices with God’s loving wordsTune into this episode to gain a practical soul care tip rooted in science, embrace God’s promises of renewal, and let go of burnout to step into a fresh season of peace and wellness.Key Takeaways: Burnout is not just about overworking—it’s about the emotional weight we carry. God is already doing something new in your life; the key is learning to perceive it. Your best days are not behind you—God is still building something beautiful in you. Words matter! Positive, life-giving words reshape your brain for resilience and peace. Scripture meditation and breath prayers can help you release stress and restore calm. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend! And don’t forget to sign up for the Lent Wellness Study at mysoulcare.com to experience more guided soul care practices that bring renewal and peace.Breath Prayer:Inhale: "See, I am doing a new thing!"Exhale: "I am making a way in the wilderness, streams in the desert." Scripture: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert." Is 43:19 Soul Care Tip: Take a pause to refocus on life-giving words from God in scripture re-wires your brain for stress-recovery, resilience and peace.LINKS & RESOURCES- Sign Up for NEW 6-Week "Lent Wellness Study! https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/- Take my FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com – your wellness assessment!- Get Bonnie's Bestselling book "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less" https://amzn.to/4azae1K- Subscribe to FREE Breathe Newsletter for Fall Quarter Soul Care! https://thebonniegray.com/subscribe/- Follow Bonnie at www.instagram.com/thebonniegray & www.facebook.com/thebonniegraySubscribe now to Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast and start living with more calm, joy, and renewal today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Breathe: The Stress Less Podcast hosted by Christian author Bonnie Gray is dedicated to refreshing your soul with rest and sparking joy, so you can feel God’s love and peace. We'll walk you through scientific, scripture-backed methods of restoring calm, in order to help you stress less, take better care of yourself, and create new rhythms to rest in daily life.
Here are some topics covered in this podcast:
🌸 Feeling Anxious? Cast Your Cares on God Because He Cares For You🌸 3 Ways to Break Free from Stress, Worry & Anxiety🌸 How to Say No to Fear & Yes to God PLUS What's the Difference Between Secular & Biblical Meditation?🌸 Is It Burnout Or Is God Stretching You? 4 Signs to Know the Difference PLUS 4 Mental Health Benefits of Stories🌸 3 Surprising Ways to Stop Overthinking, Improve Your Mood During the Day, & Get the Sleep Your Body Needs🌸 The Antidote to Stress & Fatigue + The Surprising Causes – Plus Raising Stress-Resilient Kids
FOLLOW BONNIE:Instagram: https://instagram.com/thebonniegrayFacebook: https://facebook.com/thebonniegrayHer site: http://www.thebonniegray.com
New Zealand