This Magical Life
Welcome to This Magical Life, a space where magic is real, connection is deep, and transformation is possible. In each episode, we explore that fertile meeting place where psychology meets spirituality. We bring you thought-provoking interviews, mindful meditations, and powerful conversations designed to inspire your soul and uplift your spirit. Join author and psychologist Philip Carr-Gomm on this journey to uncover the magic within us and around us, as we come together to make the world a better place, one moment at a time. This podcast is developed from the weekly video broadcast Tea with a Druid which you can find on Youtube. Philip’s books include The Book of English Magic, The Druid Animal and Plant Oracles, and The Gift of the Night. He teaches courses online and you can find out about all his books and courses at philipcarr-gomm.com and for more about druidry see druidry.org
Episodes

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Meditation w Music: Connecting with Nature and Finding Inner Clarity
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
In this guided meditation session, you'll be led to lower your gaze or gently close your eyes to become fully aware of the present moment. Transitioning from your immediate surroundings, you'll journey into the imaginal world, where your room transforms into a sacred grove, surrounded by trees and a clear sky above. Embrace the healing energy of the earth and trees, feeling their vitality and vigor. Reflect on the sense of calm and clarity this meditation brings, helping you to tap into the best version of yourself. Gradually, you'll return to the awareness of your present environment, invigorated and at peace.
Music Credits: River Medicine, Music For Energy Healing, Charlie Roscoe
Original Recording: Tea with a Druid 238

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Meditation w Music: Conversations with Nature
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
This guided meditation invites listeners to enter a sacred grove beloved by Druids, where they can find peace, solace, and connection with nature. As the session unfolds, participants are encouraged to become aware of their surroundings, connect with the earth, trees, and sky, and embrace the concept of sanctuary. The meditation explores themes of intimacy, devotion, and the interconnectedness of all life, culminating in a Druid prayer for peace and blessings. Viewers are guided back to their present surroundings with a sense of renewed tranquility and awareness.
Music Credits: Lets go to the Underworld, Awakening Earth, Charlie Roscoe Original Recording: Tea with a Druid 237

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Conversations with Nature (ft Peter Jones)
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Philip Carr-Gomm welcomes special guest Peter N. Jones for a heartfelt conversation. As the new year begins, they discuss feelings of unwinding after the holidays and explore the emotional intricacies of getting back into routine. Philip and Peter engage the audience in a serene meditation, featuring readings from Peter's inspiring book, 'Conversations with Nature.' They delve into topics of spirituality, creativity, and the profound connections between humans and the natural world. Join them for a calming and enlightening experience, perfect for starting the year with mindfulness and introspection.
Original Recording: Tea with a Druid 237

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
A Sophrology Exercise for Capacity Building
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Philip welcomes viewers from around the world to explore the themes of Imbolc, introducing an exercise designed to prepare for this transformative festival. He discusses the cultural celebration of Burns Night, sharing a translation of Robert Burns' Address to a Haggis, before guiding viewers through a Sophrology exercise. This practice nurtures personal capacities such as creativity, leadership, and more, highlighting the connection between Druidry and Sophrology. The episode emphasizes the blossoming of latent potentialities, aligning with the spirit of Imbolc.
Original Recording: Tea with a Druid 162: Moving towards Imbolc

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Meditation w Music: Find Calm Amidst the Chaos
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
This episode invites listeners on a short meditative reverie to a serene lake near Glastonbury. Imagining a walk along the Sweet Track, the tranquillity is further enhanced by a mystical encounter with the legendary sword, Excalibur. The narrative blends gratitude for ancient craftsmanship with a sense of spiritual awakening, ultimately connecting the viewer to the myth of King Arthur and the eternal presence of light and truth. Music Credits: Native Power (The Earth Speaks) by Charlie Roscoe and Andreas Kornevall
Original Recording: Excalibur & Your Dreams (T161)

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Finding Calm Amidst Chaos: Reflections from Sensing the Earth
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
In this episode, Philip Carr-Gomm reads an essay from 'Sensing the Earth: Messages from the Wisdom Keepers.' He discusses the importance of grounding oneself during turbulent times and reflects on COVID-19, human decency, and historical perspective. The episode also delves into the history and significance of the River Brew in Glastonbury, weaving in meditative imagery. The audio concludes with a contemplative exercise inspired by Arthurian legend and an experimental technique to enhance sleep and creativity.
Original Recording: Excalibur & Your Dreams (T161)

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Meditation w Music: Grounding with Nature, Peace, and Love
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Join us for a serene and transformative guided meditation to find grounding and peace amidst life's challenges. Begin your journey in a tranquil forest clearing, where you'll connect with the earth's energy, the wisdom of the trees, and the expansive sky above. Embrace the beauty of nature through mindful observation, expand your awareness to hold the entire Earth in love, and end with blessings for the planet and yourself. Accompanied by soothing sound effects and music, this meditation will leave you feeling centered, calm, and connected to the world around you. Key Highlights:
Guided meditation in a forest clearingConnection with earth, trees, and sky energiesExpanding awareness to embrace the planetBlessings for peace and lovePerfect for grounding, mindfulness, and inner peace
Original Recording: Hold the Earth in Your Love (T160)
Music Credits: Infinite Ocean (Druid Circle) by Charlie Roscoe

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Finding Peace During Turbulent Times
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
In this episode Philip guides us through a meditation to foster a deeper awareness and connection with nature. Participants are encouraged to imagine being in a serene forest clearing, helping them attain a sense of clarity and tranquility. Post-meditation, addresses coping strategies for dealing with global crises and personal anxieties. Emphasizing the importance of shifting perspectives—from detailed focus to a broader view—the host advocates for engaging with both positive and negative emotions constructively. Techniques like sophrology, mindfulness, and staying connected with nature are highlighted as valuable tools for maintaining mental and physical well-being in tumultuous times. The episode concludes with a call for inner peace and global harmony.
Original Recording: Hold the Earth in Your Love (T160)

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Freud, Jung & Armchair Pilgrimage
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
In this episode, Philip Carr-Gomm reflects on the influence of psychoanalysis founders Freud and Jung, touching upon their theories and eventual fallout. He shares personal insights about inheriting traits from his father, exploring how what may seem like annoying characteristics can also be gifts. Philip discusses the power of meaningful communication and the value of silence, advocating for 'slow radio' and mindful conversation. He also introduces the concept of the 'armchair pilgrimage' through evocative excerpts from The Guidebook for an Armchair Pilgrimage. The episode concludes with gratitude for the Tea with a Druid community and a nod to the spirit of their gatherings.
Original Recording: Freud, Jung & Armchair Pilgrimage (T109)

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Finding Hope & Inspiration Even in Times of Trouble
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Philip explains the concept of different levels of reality and the importance of spiritual practices in accessing other states of consciousness for inspiration and hope. He incorporates a meditation session focused on grounding and connecting with nature.
Original Recording: Finding Hope & Inspiration Even in Times of Trouble

Monday Jan 27, 2025
The Big Picture
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Philip delves into the concept of time, reflecting on the shift in stories around the holiday season. He discusses the balance between the overwhelming 'big stories' of global events and the grounding 'small stories' in our personal lives. Philip emphasizes the importance of focusing on smaller, hopeful aspects to maintain mental well-being. The episode concludes with a calming meditation, inviting viewers to reconnect with nature and the fundamental goodness of life amidst crises.
Original Recording: The Big Picture (T055)

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Embracing Life’s Journey: Live Life Now
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Join us for a heartfelt discussion on the spiritual life and the questions that matter most. Addressing the impact of gloomy weather and seasonal affective disorder, this conversation draws inspiration from Alan Watts' perspective on why life is not a journey but a dance. We explore the importance of being present, the paradox of life as both a journey and a moment-to-moment experience, and the balance needed between goal-setting and savouring the now. Featuring a guided visualization to uplift your spirit, this talk delves into the complexities of spirituality, creativity, and the continuous dance of life.
Original Recording: Understanding Life is a Dance, Not a Destination

Sunday Jan 26, 2025
What it means to be a Druid
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Dive into the world of Druids with this insightful and meditative video. Explore the essence of being a Druid, their deep connection with nature, body, and mind, and the pursuit of wisdom through tradition and philosophy. Experience a calming meditation, connecting with the sacred grove and the energy of the earth and stars. Learn about the rich history and future of Druidry, and how it balances scholarly pursuits with a profound reverence for the natural world. Perfect for those seeking spiritual growth, knowledge, and harmony with nature.
Original Recording: What it means to be a Druid (T007)

Saturday Jan 25, 2025
What it means to be an Ovate
Saturday Jan 25, 2025
Saturday Jan 25, 2025
In this episode, we journey into the fascinating world of Ovate work, the next step in Druidry after completing the Bardic grade. Beginning with an introduction and a warm welcome to all listeners, the episode sets a reflective tone by describing a serene walk through Somerset, drawing parallels to the spiritual journey in Druidry.
The host shares insights from a recent Druid ceremony, emphasizing the power of community in spiritual practice. A guided meditation follows, inviting listeners to deepen their connection with nature—a core element of the Druid tradition.
The discussion then shifts to the Ovate grade, exploring its themes of life cycles, transformation, and the magic that comes with this level of training. The cyclical nature of life is highlighted as both a teaching tool and a spiritual reality in Druid practice. The host also delves into the concept of embodied spirituality, emphasizing how Ovate work integrates the physical and spiritual worlds.
The episode concludes with reflections on the transformative nature of the Ovate path, leaving listeners inspired to continue their Druid journey.
Original Recording: What it means to be an Ovate (T006)

Friday Jan 24, 2025
Why Start with Bardic Tradition: The Power of Storytelling
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Druidry. Learn why storytelling is the foundational step in this spiritual journey and how it serves as a means to connect, understand, and find meaning in both given and chosen life stories as a gateway to spiritual life and personal connection. We explore the balance between given and chosen stories, and engaging with stories to achieve wisdom, peace, and creativity.
Original Youtube Recording: What it means to be a Bard (T005)

Thursday Jan 23, 2025
From Ideals to Reality: A Pathway of Transformation
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Join us in this reflective session where we imagine a global gathering in a sacred grove. We discuss the nature of reality, comparing materialist and idealist philosophies, and the importance of finding the right stance in life. We'll explore how beliefs shape our experiences and share profound insights from Viktor Frankl and recent studies. Delve into the blend of psychology and spirituality, and the dual purpose of personal growth and contributing positively to the world. Conclude with a grounding exercise to connect with spiritual sustenance, fostering a sense of community and inner peace.
Original Recording: Tea with a Druid 002

Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Discovering the Druid Path: Unlocking Love, Creativity, and Inner Wisdom
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
Thursday Jan 23, 2025
In this heartfelt conversation, Philip Carr-Gomm introduces the spiritual journey of Druidry, exploring its core principles and goals. The discussion focuses on the Druid path's emphasis on love, wisdom, and creativity as guiding values for personal growth and community. Drawing on ancient stories, the speaker reflects on the deeper meanings of these goals, particularly the idea of wisdom as an ongoing journey rather than a moment of enlightenment. The conversation invites listeners to embrace these timeless teachings, cultivating a connection to nature, self, and the world around them.
Watch the original recording on youtube