Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - The Sleepy Frog Prince

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Starting point is 00:00:26 Discover coffee plus on nispresso.com. This episode is sponsored by Sweet Night. Sweet Night believes everyone deserves a sweet night of sleep. The Cool Nest Ultra is Sweet Night's advanced cooling memory foam mattress, designed to help you feel instantly cool and create a more comfortable environment for restorative sleep. I really struggle to sleep when I'm too warm, and all that tossing and turning and kicking off the covers to cool down isn't just a for me, but for my partner too.

Starting point is 00:01:04 The Cool Nest Ultra is made to combat that. Engineered with advanced cooling technology, it's designed to fill up to 11 degrees cooler with an instant cool to the touch cover and breathable comfort layers that help reduce heat buildup throughout the night. So remember to visit sweetnight.com and use code Get Sleepy 20 to shop the Cool Nest memory foam mattress and unlock the current offer. That's sweetnight.com and code Get Sleepy 20. If you love Get Sleepy or any of the other shows we produce here at Samba Studios, you'll love our app called White Noise Deep Sleep Sounds. With hundreds of sounds to choose from and the option

Starting point is 00:01:55 to create custom mixes for your perfect soundscape, it can help you sleep better, improve focus, reduce anxiety, relieve tinnitus and calm babies. As a listener of Get Sleepy, we have an exclusive offer for you. Download the White Noise Deep Sleep Sounds app and get 30 days free access to all of the premium content. Just go to deepsleepsounds.com slash get sleepy. That's deepsleeps sounds.com slash get sleepy. Good evening and welcome to get sleepy, where we listen, we relax and we get sleepy. My name's Thomas and I'm your host. Thank you for joining me here.

Starting point is 00:02:51 This evening, you'll drift off to a relaxing classic fairy tale. adapted and written by Shamika. It's the story of a magical river, a curious young woman, and a talking frog. There are many versions of this tale, including a famous fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. Sometimes the most familiar stories are the most comforting. Just what you need at bedtime. before we hear it, I'd like to thank each and every one of you who has ever spread the word about get sleepy. Maybe you've told your loved ones or your friends or neighbours about the show.

Starting point is 00:03:46 Perhaps you've seen or heard somebody discussing some struggles they've had with sleep and you've suggested that they try listening to this show. I even know that there are many amazing folks who work. in healthcare, who listen themselves, and have made get sleepy a bit of an informal suggestion to patients that might be suffering with insomnia or other challenges with sleep. I truly can't express enough just how much I appreciate you all. Every one of you here listening. You're the reason we do what we do, and your listenership and support is what keeps the show alive and well. Word of mouth recommendations are still the most meaningful way for us to reach new listeners.

Starting point is 00:04:38 So if there's anyone in your life who you think may appreciate giving this show a try, please do let them know that Get Sleepy is here, ready and waiting, to help them rest a little easier in just the same way that we're always here for you. Thank you so much, my friends. Now, hopefully you're already feeling settled and ready for a good night's sleep, but it might take you a little while to unwind, especially after a busy day. So, if you're not quite there yet, don't worry.

Starting point is 00:05:25 There's no rush. Let yourself relax and fall asleep at your own pace. For now, All you have to do is listen to my voice. With your eyes closed, allow yourself to be transported to the world of the story. Knowing that you'll fall asleep when you're ready. Take a deep breath in and then back out.

Starting point is 00:06:17 And now that you're starting to relax, Imagine a beautiful river. This is where our story begins. Hidden behind tall trees and weeping willows was a long, winding river. The water was always warm and inviting, despite the blanket of leaves that hid it from the sun. It felt like it was the earth. little secret, it was rumoured that this particular river had magical abilities. People said that it could heal the sick and grant miracles to those most deserving. It was called the

Starting point is 00:07:43 Armand River. A young woman walked along the edge of it, as she had done almost every Sunday since she was 15 years old, her bare feet sunk into the damp grass, her toes curling, as the sensation of the smooth blades tickled her skin. Every now and then, she paused and dipped her toes into the rushing water below. The sun sparkled, peeking through the leaves above her, She could feel its warm touch as she stepped out of the shadows and allowed it to heat the back of her neck. The intensity of the sun deepened the soothing smell of the forest around her. She stopped and inhaled the damp scent of nature. The young woman's name was Thelma.

Starting point is 00:09:11 Thelma lived for those peaceful moments of her. quiet, where she could sink into the world around her, those moments when the noise of her family wasn't quite so loud, and her thoughts felt completely her own. She let her mind wander as she stared down at the rushing water. Her thoughts were much like the river. They came and flowed away, changing so quickly. One moment, she was thinking about pickled pears, and the next, she was dreaming about a home in a castle and beautiful long dresses. Sometimes Thelma envied the river. She wanted to know what it felt like to be so free, so determined, and so relaxed all at once, it moved past and over large rocks,

Starting point is 00:10:39 knowing its destination and eager to get there. Sometimes it rushed. But on other days, it took its time. Today, the river seemed to be in a hurry. The water babbled loudly. Each little bubbling wave was completely new and different from the last. Whenever Thelma dipped her toes into the river, the water eagerly kissed her skin. Pleased that she was saying hello to it,

Starting point is 00:11:29 Thelma sighed as she stopped beneath the canopy of a nearby willow tree. Its branches leaned forwards. and dipped close to the ground. The leaves creating a curtain of protection for her. Within its cooling shade, Thelma allowed herself to open up her palm and look at the thing she clutched tightly in her fist, a gold ring with an emerald embedded in the centre. It was previously her mother's, Before that, her grandmothers, and even further back, her great-grandmothers, the ring had seen so much, and she vowed that it would continue to see so much more. Mere hours ago, before Thelma had left her house on the outskirts of the village, her mother had pulled her aside. Thelma's mother brought her to her bedroom and handed her a little black box.

Starting point is 00:13:11 When Thelma opened it, she couldn't help but gasp. She had seen this ring adorn her mother's finger since before she could remember. It always sat on her right hand, on her forefinger. Seeing the ring in the box, Thelma's heart swam with warm. It was her 20th birthday, and as such, it was her turn to finally wear the jewel. Now, by the river, Thelma held out the ring beyond the shadow of the willow tree so that the light could catch it. She twisted it in her hand, turning it this way and that, so she could watch the sun's brilliant

Starting point is 00:14:18 rays glint off the green emerald in the glow of the sun. It looked as if the essence of the forest lived within the ring itself. She could imagine a vast green expanse hidden within the gem, and she touched it gently, grinning to herself. She was about to put the ring on her forefinger when a sudden movement in the water made her jump in slow motion. She watched as the sparkling ring fell from her hands, down towards the river, before it landed with a gentle plop in the water. Almost instantly, without thinking,

Starting point is 00:15:25 Thelma gathered her cotton skirts in her hands, and prepared to jump into the Blue River water. Wait, a voice called out. Instinctively, Thelma paused. She knew that not many came here to this spot on a Sunday. Sundays were the day of the market. When fresh meats, fish and cakes would be spread out along the streets of the village, people would peruse them before they went home. Baskets brimming with food. It's why Thelma chose to come to the

Starting point is 00:16:18 Almond River on those days. Alone, she would sit with her feet in the water and hope for a miracle. For an adventure, she looked around now, staring at the tops of the trees and along. the riverbank, waiting for the voice to show itself. But no one appeared. Down here, the voice said again. This time, it was followed by a faint croaking. Confused. Thelma looked down at the spot where she had just seen her ring fall. Perched on the edge of a large grey stone was a small, slimy frog. He looked up at her with deep brown eyes, waiting expectantly. When she didn't respond, he spoke again. His chest protruding like a little balloon.

Starting point is 00:17:45 Hi there, the frog lifted up a webbed foot and waved it in the air. Thelma nearly stumbled backwards in response. A talking frog, she thought. She had heard of miracles near the almond river. Years ago, her neighbour discovered a woman sitting on the edge of the river. The woman gave the neighbour a riddle, and when they answered it, they were handed a golden apple. The neighbour sold the apple, and used the money to move on.

Starting point is 00:18:32 away. Thelma had seen the apple before it was sold a long time ago. It was part of the reason she had started coming to the river in the first place. But after five years of waiting, she had yet to be given a similar opportunity. It made her begin to think that maybe she wasn't worthy. The frog spoke again. I don't mean to startle you, he said, now holding out two of his webbed feet, I saw you dropped your ring, and I want to help you. I can get it back for you. Thelma let out a great sigh of relief and smiled at the frog, just as she was about to thank him. The frog continued, I can get it for you, he said. But only if you'll do something for me.

Starting point is 00:19:56 You see, I'm stuck in this little green body. The frog gestured down to himself. But I need someone to break the curse. To do that, I would need a person such as yourself to help me. Further down the river, Thelma spotted several ducks preening themselves. They quacked at each other and shook their feathers. Water droplets that shone like diamonds flew off their wings. Thelma watched the ducks for a moment as her thoughts spiraled.

Starting point is 00:20:50 Of course she would say yes. She had to say yes. She needed that ring back, more than anything. Time ticked on. The ring could be anywhere. It could be at the bottom of the river, or the current might have pushed it miles along. Either way, she knew that she wouldn't be able to find it herself. Though, without even asking what the frog needed her to do, Thelma nodded gently.

Starting point is 00:21:40 Instantly, the frog's eyes brightened. He made a face that she thought was a smile. Then dived into the river, Thelma watched as the water rippled where the frog had jumped in. The circles getting bigger and bigger. Until gradually, the circles disappeared. The frog was gone for five minutes. Though it could have been longer. She wasn't sure the entire time he was away.

Starting point is 00:22:28 Thelma found herself dipping her toes in the river, thinking about what the frog would ask her to do. Her thoughts became more and more. tangled as she waited. Then she heard the telltale signs of the frog coming back to the surface. And she wondered if perhaps he would ask her to kiss him. Like in the stories she once heard, she tried not to look too disgusted by the idea as she greeted the returning frog. He sat on a little rock sticking out of the earth next to the river. In his hand was the gold ring.

Starting point is 00:23:28 As promised, Thelma couldn't help but grin as she reached out to take it from him. But just as the tips of her fingers brushed his slimy ones, the frog pulled back, My conditions, he reminded her. I will tell you them first. If you accept, I'll give you your ring back at the end. Thelma tried not to grimace, as the image of her kissing him flashed across her mind. She could remember stories her mother used to tell her years ago

Starting point is 00:24:21 about this very river. There was a tale about her. a crocodile that only needed a kind, gentle kiss from a stranger. When someone kissed the crocodile on the top of its snout, it transformed back into an old man. Thelma desperately needed that ring. So she nodded her head and hoped that the frog's condition wouldn't be like the crocodiles. The frog breathed out. Then he began to speak once more.

Starting point is 00:25:18 Every night for the next three nights, you need to take me back to your home. There you must feed me and tuck me into a warm bed. And then in the morning I'll go. At the end of the third night, I'll give you your ring back. That's it, said Thelma. She hoped that there weren't any underlying conditions he was hiding from her. The frog croaked, his chest ballooning out once more. And Thelma took that to mean, yes.

Starting point is 00:26:10 Okay then, she sighed. And without waiting another moment, she bent down and held out her hand. So he could pop into her palm. She'd never held a frog before, much less a talking one. So the feel of it was almost foreign to her. Almost foreign, but not completely. His texture reminded her of seaweed, caressing her bare skin, under the water at the beach,

Starting point is 00:26:55 except his skin was much smoother. and a little more wet. Also, he moved a lot. A strange vibration thrummed along her arm whenever the frog croaked. So much so, she almost dropped him, but she remembered her mother's ring, clutched in his hand, and maintained her grip. By the time Thelma had broken through the trees and could spot her home. The sun was setting. The sky was alight with a million different colors. Each one more vibrant and stunning than the last.

Starting point is 00:27:55 If she wasn't holding the frog, she would have paused and looked up, watching the colors bleed into night. But Thelma was on a mission, and she wanted to feed the frog and tuck it into bed before her family noticed. The frog spoke once more. He introduced himself as Eric and asked for her name. Thelma realized that in her shock, she had forgotten her manners.

Starting point is 00:28:43 I'm Thelma, she said. She chewed nervously on her lip. then asked the frog what he liked eating. She didn't really know how to catch flies. The frog, Eric, vibrated in her hands once more. And Thelma realized he was laughing. I don't eat bugs like other frogs, said Eric. I like human food, of course.

Starting point is 00:29:22 I wasn't always a frog, you know. Oh, said Thelma, she didn't know what to say after that. Soon, she approached the steps that led to her front door. She paused, her hand on the metal doorknob, listening for any sounds of life. Her mother was in the kitchen. She could hear her distant humming as she moved around. The clattering of pots following her footsteps, Thelma whispered a quiet apology to Eric. As she slipped him into her pocket, her plan was to sneak past the kitchen, enter her bedroom,

Starting point is 00:30:27 and find somewhere to keep Eric, so that she could bring food upstairs to him. keeping him a secret from her family seemed a lot easier than the alternative, explaining that a talking frog held her family heirloom. Silently, Thelma slipped through the door. Then she half ran, half tiptoed to her bedroom at the back of the cottage. As soon as her door was closed, Eric popped his head out of her pocket. She scooped him up and placed him on a table next to her window. That evening, Thelma ate dinner with her family around the table in their kitchen. She laughed and joked with them. And when the time came, she helped her mother clean up.

Starting point is 00:31:45 They washed the dishes and put away the pots and pants. Then her mother turned to her, gave her a kiss on her forehead, and went up to bed. Now Thelma was all alone. A single candle burned on the kitchen table, the flickering flame casting shadows on the walls. Thelma used the glow of the candle and the silver light from the moon shining through the window to prepare a small bowl of food for the frog. When she was done, she found a little wooden box and some goose feathers. She laid them out delicately in the box, along with a scrap of cotton fabric.

Starting point is 00:32:57 From a dress she no longer wore, she brought both the box and the food to her bedroom. Thelma watched as the frog's pink tongue poked out of his mouth. He devoured the basil rice her mother had made. Before he rubbed his tummy and thanked her, the frog then clambered into the little makeshift bed Thelma had created, and laid himself down. Thelma blew out a candle next to her bed and did the same. She hadn't thought much about sharing her room with Eric. She figured that once they were both in bed, they would fall into a deep sleep, but her mind filled with questions. And before long,

Starting point is 00:34:10 she found herself talking to him. In the dark, she forgot that he was a frog, and they spoke like friends. Like it was completely normal, she learned that Eric had stolen food from a man. He didn't need to steal the food, as he wasn't starving, but he just wanted to,

Starting point is 00:34:44 and as punishment, the man turned Eric into a frog. The only way to break the curse was to rely on the kindness of someone else. Eric confessed that he'd asked several people for help already. But they had all run away from him. His last words before Thelma fell asleep were an apology. for using her ring to get her to help him. The next morning, sunlight streamed in from the open window, gently easing Thelma out of her slumber.

Starting point is 00:35:47 When she awoke, she saw that Eric had gone. The rest of her day passed by in a blur. She did her house chores and she read her books. and she thought all day of the little frog. When it was an hour until sunset, she decided it was time to seek him out and collect him. Then they went through the same ritual again. Eric sat in Thelma's bedroom,

Starting point is 00:36:34 waiting for her to bring him food, and once she had, he ate. and lay in his makeshift bed. They both tried to sleep, but ended up talking. That night, Eric discovered why the ring was so important to Thelma. And she learned that Eric played the violin and that he loved to read. Eric also revealed something else. Before his transformation, He was a prince who lived in a palace. Eric and Thelma talked and talked. Until at last, they drifted off.

Starting point is 00:37:43 On the third and final day, Thelma felt nervous. A kinship had formed between her and Eric. She found that she didn't squirm or grimace, when he hopped into her hands. She even found comfort in his voice, in the darkness. In a way, Thelma didn't want the curse to break. She'd found a friend in Eric, and she didn't want that friendship to end.

Starting point is 00:38:26 The next morning, Thelma awoke to find her ring next to her pillow. She scooped it up, and slid it onto her forefinger, where it fit perfectly. Thelma watched the green emeralds sparkle in the sunlight, and tried not to think too much about how she would miss her friend, not allowing the melancholy to settle. Thelma threw herself out of bed, got dressed, and prepared for the day. She had just walked into the kitchen ready to cook breakfast.

Starting point is 00:39:25 When a knock made her pause, she backtracked and went to open the door. There, in front of her, was a tall man with long hair and big brown eyes that she immediately recognized. The man's eyes shimmered with excitement. just as they had shimmered when Thelma collected him from the river. Eric, she breathed. The man nodded, and Thelma grinned. Eric took Thelma's arm, and the pair strolled into the forest. They wandered along the edge of the riverbank where they had met.

Starting point is 00:40:31 Eric wanted to thank her for her kindness. And so, he offered Thelma and her family a space to live within his palace. She would be cared for in the same way she had cared for him. And at the same time, their friendship could continue to grow. Thelma accepted over the years, their friendship did indeed bloom. and when it blossomed completely, Eric got down on one knee and proposed, and of course, they lived happily ever after.

Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories - The Sleepy Frog Prince

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