Mindfulness Reflections

Today's video was filmed a few weeks ago and programmed to be released today, as a way of explaining how slowing down can truly revolutionise your English acquisition and production. You may have read the sad news of the peaceful transition of venerable Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh on 22nd January, including a condolence message to his monastic and lay Community by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.  Incorporating mindfulness practices into my own life and teaching of English has truly transformed the way I live and work.  I hope you find today's tribute useful and I look forward to chatting with you in the comments beneath the video.  

Let's talk about how to advance with your English without having to do anything extra. It is absolutely possible to practise every day without needing to make additional time for it or sacrifice any of your other activities. If you spend a lot of time worrying about how to make progress or how to fit English into your life, you're in fact creating an obstacle instead of a vehicle for learning. Does that mean that you can just sit back and hope you'll absorb English by osmosis? Hahaha, NO. Moving forward does require awareness and volition, together with the 3 simple steps I've outlined for you in today's video . I really hope it sparks some ideas on how to become a fluent and confident user of English, not only for yourself, but for those around you to benefit as well. Is this resonating with you? If so, I want to hear from you in the comments. Let’s talk about the simple things you can do to start incorporating English into your everyday life starting today. #teac

When it comes to listening, especially to people speaking, we tend to either want to interrupt, contradict, or, quite the contrary, just switch off and not listen at all. Listening is the most underrated of all our skills and the most underused. In fact, if you want to speak English well, it's listening you need to focus on, because listening and speaking go hand in hand. The GREAT NEWS is that the ability most of us have to listen is absolutely fascinating!  Join me in this week's video to find out more about this amazing skill, and remember to drop a comment within YouTube (under every video, there's a section where you can comment, ask a question, and interact with others, did you know that? 😊)

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🎉 Hope it really is a happy time for you. But even if isn't, for now, please know that you're not alone, and remember that we can ALWAYS start again and begin anew. The beginning of a new year is an excellent opportunity for us to think about what we really want to achieve over the coming months and years. If improving your English is something you're READY to do,  this week's video  explores the less-known but essential component to your learning strategy.  Join me as we look at the meaning of this fascinating vocabulary item, and take a plunge from traditional definitions to a deeper, more philosophical outlook. See you in the comments!