Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - Sagittarius’ Dreamy Day on Earth

Starting point is 00:00:00 Get Sleepy is a production of Slumber Studios and is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and Premium members. If you'd like to listen ad-free and access weekly bonus episodes, extra long stories and our entire back catalogue, you can try out Premium free for 7 days by following the link in the episode notes. Now, a quick word from our sponsors. This episode is brought to you by Melissa and Doug. Wooden puzzles and building toys for problem solving and arts and crafts for creative thinking, Melissa and Doug makes toys that help kids take on the world

Starting point is 00:00:40 because the way they play today shapes who they become tomorrow. Melissa and Doug, the play is pretend, the skills are real. Look for Melissa and Doug wherever you shop for toys. Think about something you're good at. Now think about how you got there. Chances are you had someone to help you get started. If you're thinking about starting to invest,

Starting point is 00:01:03 Questrade's award-winning support team is here to help you learn how to become a better investor. From placing your first trade to setting up customized stock alerts, we're always by your side. Just a few of the reasons why we are Canada's number one rated online broker by MoneySense. Get started today at Questrade.com. Welcome to Get Sleepy, where we listen, we relax, and we get sleepy. My name is Thomas and I'm your host. Now that our fifth birthday celebrations have wrapped up, I'd like to thank you all for the incredibly kind messages we've received over the last week. It's clear that even after all these years, we're still lucky enough to have so many dedicated

Starting point is 00:01:56 and loyal listeners of the show. Everyone on the team feels all that love and appreciation and it inspires us to keep making the very best sleep content for all of you. And I've got a little extra surprise to tell you about. We appreciate your listenership and support so much that we decided to make this yet another five episode week. Tomorrow night, come back to hear a new Sleepy History here on the Get Sleepy feed, along with a special announcement that you're going to love, particularly if you're a fan of our history episodes. Tonight, I'll be reading to you, as we continue our exploration of the zodiac with the ninth star sign Sagittarius, and thank you again to Frankie for writing this beautiful series.

Starting point is 00:03:00 Sagittarius is the sign of the zodiac associated with adventure. What place better or more enticing for him to spend his one allotted day on earth than the Serengeti, an expansive region of incredible wildlife and nature in Tanzania. wildlife and nature in Tanzania. We'll join the ultimate voyager as he explores the animal kingdom in the place where it most vibrantly flourishes. While Sagittarius will be doing the wanderings will be remaining comfortably in our beds. So make it your purpose to achieve maximum comfort as you lie there, wrapped in your covers. Partake in those tiny nighttime rituals that tell your body it is time for rest. Maybe it's wiggling around for a moment to let your body find the best position.

Starting point is 00:04:21 Perhaps you're someone who places a spare pillow between their knees for comfort. Possibly you just take one deep breath. Let us turn our attention inward as your body settles down for the night. We get so little time during our daily lives to truly focus on ourselves. Do a mental scan and determine the state of your mind as you prepare for sleep. If your brain is buzzing and full of the thoughts of the day, take this time to empty it completely, but simply let a few things trickle out, like fine sand between your fingers. Assess whether or not you're holding on to any tension.

Starting point is 00:05:48 Gently release the parts of you that still hold stress. Remind yourself that your only concern right now is rest. In fact, it's not even a concern, it's a welcome thing to do. Push out the demands of the day by reminding yourself that you are here to embrace the all-encompassing relief of sleep. Now, imagine a landscape of gold, tall grasses along an endless horizon where the Earth meets the luminous blue of the sky. This is where our story begins. Sagittarius sat in the heavens for who knows how long and listened to his siblings regaling one another with stories of their days back on earth after so long. Considering the fact that he waited for eight of his eleven siblings to complete their adventures before rushing down for his town,

Starting point is 00:07:56 Sagittarius has contained himself quite well under the circumstances. Patience has never been his strong suit, but the day has finally come and Sagittarius is heading to Earth, not for the wonders of mankind, but to see what other marvels are to be found in the animal kingdom. Humans are very fun to play with, but they aren't the fastest or largest animals, or even the ones with the longest necks. If Sagittarius wants to see those creatures, he has to go to the Serengeti. Sagittarius arrives amongst the tall grasses of the savanna. arrives amongst the tall grasses of the savanna. The rainy season has just started and the entire area is filled with life. While the annual temperature never wavers too much, the rainfall comes twice a year, like a gift from the heavens.

Starting point is 00:09:33 Following the rain comes the wide array of wonderful creatures that call the Serengeti home. call the Serengeti home. Even now, Sagittarius can hear lowing and the feeling of their floral caress. The grass is broken here and there by tall umbrella trees. These distinctive trees are long and lanky at the trunk with wide, flat canopies. They have become a visual mascot for the Serengeti, and the seedlings of the tree are a favorite snack for both giraffes and elephants. and elephants. Because those seedlings have trouble surviving bushfires, most umbrella trees are either 45 or 125 years old. Those were the years when the seedlings were most successful.

Starting point is 00:11:16 As he observes the surroundings, Sagittarius notices how these incredible trees seemed to reach their arms out wide, almost as if they were attempting to embrace as much of the land as possible. Sagittarius wanders towards one of the trees, intent on getting a better look. It's only when he is practically under its wide canopy that he realizes he is not alone. A pack of hyenas are lounging in the shade. They are a large, furry puddle of earthy tones and dark spots. A flurry of pups chase one another back and forth, not caring whether their paths lead them over their disgruntled parents. Sat slightly apart from the rest of the hyenas is the leader of the pack. Hyenas are matriarchal, and this alpha female watches over her charges regally. Perhaps Muse is Sagittarius, this is why they don't get along with lions, difference in management styles. The hyenas generally ignore him because it is reaching midday and it's far too muggy to be worried about this hairless ape

Starting point is 00:13:09 watching them. After a few moments, however, the pups decide that he might be someone fun to play with. someone fun to play with. They take turns rushing towards him, as if to give chase, pretends not to notice them for a few minutes. Suddenly, he lunges towards the pups, who all scurry away in surprise. He might have actually frightened them, but no sooner has the thought crossed his mind than they are back again, little tails wagging happily. Though he would like to spend his whole day here with these delightful pups, he's aware that there is still much more to see and leaves the hyenas in peace. Sagittarius only walks for a few minutes

Starting point is 00:14:42 before a pair of figures striding above the grass catches his attention. Two ostriches walk together with leisurely steps, are calling to each other, but he soon notices the way they keep glancing down at the ground around them or looking in the direction that they just came from. Sagittarius ducks below the grass and creeps towards the pair. The closer he gets, the more he hears other chirps between their louder sounds. He pokes his head through a dense patch of grass and comes face to face with a very small creature. It blinks at him with big brown eyes and attempts to lightly peck his nose.

Starting point is 00:16:02 The baby ostrich seems as interested in him as he is in it. They look at one another for a while until a sound from above sends the little ostrich running towards its parents. Sagittarius slowly stands to full height, not wanting to scare the family. As they move on, he wonders how different they really are from dinosaurs. Perhaps a pair of Tyrannosaurus Rex parents would have watched their brood in much the same way. He observes the feathered giants, admiring their downy and luxurious plumage. A trumpeting sound cuts through the air, and Sagittarius whips around, his heart beating with excitement. The shapes in the distance can only mean one thing, and he wastes no time in running their way. The elephants are standing together around a large watering hole. It seems so big that he would seriously consider calling it a lake.

Starting point is 00:17:51 The largest land animals in the world cluster together, grunting and hooting in conversation. Their enormous size is staggering up close, and their long-lashed eyes are even more soulful than Sagittarius could have imagined. He watches them closely. These animals are also a close family group with a female leader. He watches her check in with each member of her family, rubbing and comforting the little ones. Some of the elephants are wading into the mud at the edge of the watering hole. They fill their trunks with muddy water and spray it all over themselves. While this may seem a bit silly, it's actually a way to keep themselves cool and protect them from sunburn under the hot African sun. Sagittarius wonders how many miles this herd of elephants has traveled together. They live in their family herds for their entire lives.

Starting point is 00:19:37 It is an infamous saying that elephants never forget, but Sagittarius is interested to know what it is they store in their memories. They live long lives and develop incredibly close relationships with one another. one another. Perhaps elephants have treasured memories, such as when they first met their mate or when their babies were born. Not for the first time, he wishes he could ask the animals these questions himself. He would love to spend a day in an elephant's mind and body. He suspects that it would be a wonderful adventure to experience the world as one of these noble creatures. Sagittarius turns his attention to the other visitors at the pool. A herd of wildebeest hesitate not far off. Their white beards and long faces strongly remind Sagittarius of the old men at the assembly

Starting point is 00:21:12 back in the days of ancient Greece. In those days, Sagittarius was known as Chiron, In those days, Sagittarius was known as Chiron, a wise and knowledgeable centaur who trained such heroes as Achilles, Asclepius, and Jason. For his admirable dedication to the furtherment of mankind, the earthly centaur was set amongst the stars as the constellation of the archer. There, forms, adventure and the desire for knowledge through experience have been at the heart of his personality. Not far from the wildebeest is a herd of zebras, creatures Sagittarius has always wondered about. It amazes him that an animal can evolve to have such a distinctive coat. Seeing them now, grouped together like a black and white forest, he understands the value of these patterns. They are nearly indistinguishable as individuals, and in turn, knowing exactly how many there are in a herd is nearly impossible. They blend together, which keeps them safe.

Starting point is 00:23:17 The zebras wicker and whinny to one another as they drink and graze. winnie to one another as they drink and graze. They recognize one another by their distinctive patterns, using something that would confuse a stranger to identify a friend. The day grows hotter still as the afternoon continues. The blue sky is merely a bright backdrop across which the constant and steady parade of clouds makes its way. The clouds act like a fluffy blanket over the savannas of the Serengeti. As a result, the air is warm and moist. It smells of new growth and the possibility of rain at any moment. The animals can sense it and gain energy from the coming waters. Rain means life here. When it comes, it is something to be treasured and utilized. The water hose will fill even more, and even the plants will get a drink.

Starting point is 00:25:02 Sagittarius looks up at the large ficus fig trees in the surrounding area. As he approaches them, he admires their intricate root system. In the wild of man, ficus trees are groomed, pruned, and grown so that their roots weave into pleasant and symmetrical patterns. Here in the wild, they are truly unleashed. The white trunk is a twisted labyrinth of roots, giving the tree the impression that it has burst forth from the earth, desperate to see how close it could get to the sun. From the branches hang air roots and vines, worn with the same impressive confidence that a socialite might wear a glittering brooch to an exclusive party. Sagittarius admires the tree and quickly gives in to the urge to climb it. He maneuvers and negotiates his climb with power.

Starting point is 00:26:38 He allows his excitement and enthusiasm to carry him upwards until he stops in his tracks. He is standing on a stout branch and peering up to where his hand has nearly landed on the paw of a sleeping leopard. The big cat is truly beautiful. Her spotted pattern is more lovely gracefully on the branch. He spots her black-tipped tail twitching this way and that as she dreams. Sagittarius takes a few breaths to admire the sight before easing himself back down from the branch to the stability of the ground. He briefly glances back up to the tree and sees the leopard now that he knows what he is looking for. Feeling very lucky, he turns back to the savanna in search of more adventure. A flash of color catches Sagittarius' eyes. In a world of golden grass, the tiny specks

Starting point is 00:28:35 of vibrant green and shocking purple stands out. He follows the colors to a few tiny sun birds enjoying the last drops of nectar from a copse of flowers. Their curved beaks give them the ideal access to the sweet treats found at the heart of the blooms. They are the African equivalent of the hummingbirds found in North and South America. These little feathered friends hover over flowers and use their iridescent plumage to attract mates.

Starting point is 00:29:33 Sagittarius settles himself down to watch the little creatures going about their business. The female sunbirds have soft yellow bellies that fade into grey-brown backs and wings. While still appearing to be very sweet, their feathers pale in comparison to the males. Their feathers pale in comparison to the males. These also have yellow bellies, but they sport a necklace of bright purple. Their heads and backs are the loveliest blue-green. The combination of head and neck colors makes these little birds look like living jewels as they reflect the sun. Sagittarius finds his attention drawn from one of the smallest Serengeti residents to one of the largest when the dung-colored background shifts behind the flowers. He looks up to take in the full height of a giraffe. This animal has one of the most unique and

Starting point is 00:31:10 identifiable appearances in the entire world. His long neck and even longer legs should eggs should make him look awkward and gangly, but he finds that the young male in front of him has a quiet grace that Sagittarius fills the urge to study the pattern, or even try to replicate it with a painting. Like the zebra, it is yet another marvel of the natural world. The fact that such a beautiful pattern could develop of its own volition is remarkable. Sagittarius stands up and realizes he is not even half the height of this young male, who will certainly grow another three feet or so before reaching maturity. The giraffe is feeding on a nearby tree, stretching his long limbs and neck to reach the green leaves on the higher branches. He briefly balances on his hind legs for added height,

Starting point is 00:32:59 while his black tongue curls around his food. black tongue curls around his food. Having captured a mouthful, the giraffe looks around while he chews. He seems to spot Sagittarius and moves away rather quickly. rather quickly. Sagittarius is just wondering what he could have done to surprise the creature and drive it off so suddenly when he hears a snort from behind him. He slowly turns and finds a rhino staring him down. Rhinoceroses are not known for being particularly well tempered, but they also don't have great eyesight. Sagittarius decides that his best option is to simply stand very still and wait. The rhino sports two horns on its nose. The first one is large, slightly curved, The first one is large, slightly curved, and nearly as long as a human's forearm.

Starting point is 00:34:38 The second horn sits just behind it and slightly further up the rhino's face. This one is much smaller. Due to the fact that Sagittarius can't see any other rhinos nearby, he assumes that this one is a male. Females often live in communal herds. For many years, scientists assumed that rhinos were not very sociable animals. It wasn't until they were studied at night that researchers saw the full extent of rhino behavior. Though they are active during the day, they become even more active at night. Rhinos congregate in large groups to socialize. Sagittarius would love nothing more than to witness a rhino party, but he knows he must be gone, back to the stars, by nightfall. This male rhino takes in the sight of Sagittarius for a few long minutes before resolutely turning away and continuing with its business. He hopes the rhino is off for a nap before the long night of fun in store.

Starting point is 00:36:31 The afternoon has continued marching on, while Sagittarius has been watching and meeting the the animals. Now the sun is turning that particular shade of golden orange that signals sunset isn't far away. The light seems to paint the grasses and the trees with a coppery tone, making everything shine. And yet, there is one more resident of the Serengeti that Sagittarius has yet to see. He is determined to witness this kingly animal before he leaves. Sagittarius makes his way through the grass under the late afternoon sun, towards a large, fallen tree. fallen tree. The sun has bleached the wood of the already pale ficus tree, making it a creamy white. Its branches, now bereft of leaves, stick out from the large trunk, like strange little trees of their own. Only someone with keen eyes would see the sand-colored shapes lounging on the tree. Sagittarius approaches carefully, knowing only too well how grumpy one can be when awoken

Starting point is 00:38:29 from a nap. Long muscled bodies are draped here and there. Some are in furry piles, while others hang off the felled tree. The pride of lions are getting their last few minutes of sleep before a night of activity. Well, nearly all of them. One little fuzzy fellow is watching Sagittarius as keenly as he watches them. A lion cub with speckled fur and golden eyes yawns dramatically. Sagittarius sits down, not wanting to scare the cub. The cub with the characteristic bravery of youth comes right up to Sagittarius puts out a hand and pats the tiny cat. Lions don't pair, but the little cub presses its body into his hand appreciatively. The cub allows itself to be stroked a few times before yawning again and turning back to its pride.

Starting point is 00:40:48 Clearly, the young lion still needs a few more minutes of sleep before it is truly ready to face the world. Sagittarius watches the lion return to its mother. He casts his eyes over the other members of the pride. He notices how lean and strong the females look, their bodies honed by daily hunting. He admires the magnificent mane on the chief male and resists the urge to pet that, too. The African sun bursts through one final cloud bank and drapes its warm light on the sleeping lions. Sagittarius commits the image to memory, completely satisfied with his day back on earth. I'm going to go ahead and close the video. The You You You You I'm going to go ahead and start the video. The You You You You I'm going to go ahead and start the video. You I'm going to go ahead and start the video. You You You The. you

Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - Sagittarius’ Dreamy Day on Earth

There aren't comments yet for this episode. Click on any sentence in the transcript to leave a comment.