← Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories
Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories
A Peaceful Morning at the Market in Harare
00:42:10
Narrated by Arif. Join Matthew as he spends a relaxing morning at the bustling Mbare market in Harare, Zimbabwe.
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- [00:01]
Andrew
In case you didn't know, our company Slumber Studios also has a sleep app called Slumber. With well over a thousand episodes, it has every type of sleep inducing content you could possibly want, from stories, meditations, audiobooks and history to soundscapes and music. New episodes are added each week and you can even search by narrator and listen exclusively to episodes narrated by me or by any of my wonderful fellow storytellers. Slumber has other unique features too, like the ability to add and adjust background sounds to create your own perfect mix. So I highly recommend you give Slumber a try. It's available in the Apple App Store and on Google Play and as a Get Sleepy listener, you can unlock all of the content in the app free for one month. Just go to Slumber FM GetSleepy to get instant access to all of the content in slumber. Free for one month. That's Slumber FM GetSleepy. Did you know that before Slumber Studios produced podcasts, we made apps? We have one app that is the perfect companion to get sleepy. It's called White Noise Deep Sleep Sounds. We developed this app in house at Slumber Studios to deliver the highest quality sleep sounds. It can help you fall asleep fast, wake up less often, improve focus, reduce anxiety, relieve tinnitus and calm babies. With over 300 sounds and a new sound released every week, you're sure to find one that suits your tastes, including a variety of fan sounds, white, brown, pink, green and other colour noises, professionally recorded nature sounds as well as a broad range of music like classical, ambient, sleep music and lo fi. As a listener of Get Sleepy, we have an exclusive offer for you. Download the White Noise Deep Sleep Sounds app Now and get 30 days free access to all of the premium content. Just go to deepsleepsounds.com getsleepy that's deepsleepsounds.com getssleepy hey, it's Andrew. I'm the host of Send Me to Sleep, another sleep inducing podcast from the Slumber Studios Network. On Send Me to Sleep, you'll find classic stories specially narrated to help your mind relax and drift off into a good night's rest. Some fan favorites are the Secret Garden, Emily of New Moon and the Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. Everything is designed with your sleep in mind, so if you're looking for another great way to ease into a restful night's sleep, then just search Send Me to Sleep on your favourite podcast player. I look forward to seeing you there. Welcome to Get Sleepy, where we listen, we relax and we get sleepy. I'm your host Thomas. It is really special as always to have your company. Thank you for trusting in us to be by your side while you settle down for the night. I hope we can help you get the great rest you deserve. Tonight's story is set in a vibrant market in Harare, Zimbabwe. Shortly we'll join a man named Matthew who lives there. He often goes to the market and will join him tonight to see all the amazing goods on offer. A Reef will be reading it to you and it was wonderfully written by Kathleen. Before we begin, let's take a moment to unwind, imagining the sights, sounds and smells of the market. Find a comfortable position, allowing your body to relax and your mind to settle. Close your eyes and take a deep, cleansing breath. Inhale slowly, allowing the fresh air to fill your lungs, and then exhale, releasing any tension with it. And as you breathe, imagine yourself in the heart of Harare's bustling market. Visualize the vivid colors of the market stores and picture the vendors, smiling faces, each sharing a piece of their culture through their offerings. The aroma of spices, the fragrance of fresh produce, and the scent of handmade crafts intermingle in the air as you wander through the market. In your mind's eye, notice the soft chatter of conversations, the laughter and the sounds of transactions taking place. These sounds form a soothing backdrop, inviting you to let go of any thoughts, any worries. Now allow your focus to settle on a moment of stillness. Imagine finding a quiet corner, perhaps under the shade of a tree or by a tranquil fountain. Here you can sit down and immerse yourself in the ambience of the market, becoming one with the ebb and flow of your surroundings. Feel the serenity of the atmosphere infusing your being, and carry this sense of calm with you as you gradually come back to your physical surroundings. Now we're relaxed and prepared for a good night's rest. So let's join Matthew at home as he starts his day. This is where our story begins.
- [08:41]
Thomas
With the sun breaking through the window, Matthew stretches out and prepares for his morning. He wiggles his toes and lets out a yawn, blinking his eyes open to the bright shimmer of golden light that blankets his room. The light dances upon the wooden beams of the ceiling, warming them to a hue of freshly brewed tea. A cup of tea is a wonderful idea. Thanks, Matthew. Lowering his feet into the comfort of his slippers, he indulges in the soft landing the cushioning provides and shuffles his way over to the kitchen. With the kettle slowly bubbling on the stove and a slice of bread in the toaster Matthew begins to think of the potential and possibility of the day that lies before him. In his Harare home, Matthew never feels rushed to do anything. The hustle culture is absent here, replaced by an easy going mellowness. The markets in town will be open soon. They're bustling places full of people, freshly farmed produce, pieces of local art, and the odd stand selling traditional medicine. As his mind wanders, the faint whistle of the kettle interrupts his stream of thought, accompanied by the pop of the toaster. After a satisfying breakfast of tea and toast, Matthew is ready to take on the day. He packs a couple of bottles of water, his hat and a newspaper to wrap up the vegetables he plans to buy at the market. Then he hops into his car, opens up the window, and before leaving, flicks through the radio stations. He stumbles upon some old African jazz, something by Fela Kuti, and starts up the engine. It's just the right soundtrack for the drive ahead of him. All it takes is 20 minutes from the suburban landscape to the heart of town. Harare's cityscape sprawls out before Matthew as a dynamic blend of modernity and and history. Towering buildings rise above the streets, their dazzling glass facades reflecting the sunlight. The architecture is a juxtaposition of styles with sleek contemporary structures standing alongside colonial era buildings adorned with ornate facades. Street signs, storefronts, and faded billboards worn by sunlight and rain clamor for attention. They display a mix of advertisements, promotions and public messages. Public spaces like squares and parks offer pockets of respite. In these oases, people gather to relax on benches and chat under the shade of trees. An opportunity for a conversation with a friend or a stranger is something Zimbabweans can seldom refuse. In the city center, honking horns, softly humming engines and distinct chatter fills the air. The traffic comes to a halt, the rhythm of life momentarily suspended. Fella Cootie continues to play on the radio. The Afrobeat music floods the interior of Matthew's car. It's a distinctive fusion of jazz, funk and traditional African music with an infectious groove. As the traffic inches forward, Matthew finds himself transported, his fingers tapping on the steering wheel in sync with the beat. The horns blare with an unapologetic exuberance, while the hypnotic percussion invites him to sway along with the music. Meanwhile, pedestrians weave through the stationary vehicles and vendors take advantage of the captive audience. Moving between the rows of cars. They offer snacks, drinks and trinkets in an attempt to turn the standstill into a fleeting commercial opportunity. At last the traffic starts flowing. Once More. With a parking spot finally in sight, Matthew pulls in and shuts off the car. As he steps out of the car into the heart of Mbare Market, he is immediately enveloped by a whirlwind of sights, sounds and scents. Walking toward the stalls, he notices the uneven ground of the market pathways. It's more dirt road than tarmac now. Voices fill his ears, a lively medley of pitches, each contributing to the symphony of market life. Vendors passionately call out their offerings, their voices rising above the general hum of conversations and laughter. The rhythm of the market is punctuated by the clinking of bicycle wheels, the rustling of plastic bags, and the excited exclamations of old friends. Even though they might have seen each other only yesterday, they approach their daily morning greeting with fresh enthusiasm. A kaleidoscope of colors and patterns draws Matthew's gaze as he surveys the market scene. Vibrant fabrics drape over stalls made of wooden pallets, which showcase secondhand clothing and vegetables. And nearby, hand carved wooden sculptures, beaded jewelry and crafts offer a snapshot of the local artistry. The rich and diverse aromas of the market guide Matthew from one sensory experience to the next. The sweet fragrance of ripe fruit blends with the earthy scent of vegetables, while the tantalizing aroma of street food tempts his taste buds. Matthew observes the people around him, all brought together by the allure of the market. Smiles and nods are exchanged as strangers interact, and this sense of community is palpable in the friendly greetings and shared moments of laughter. As he soaks in the ambiance, Matthew is reminded of the unique beauty of community spaces. This is not just a marketplace, it's a living testament to the spirit of the people, the culture, and this sense of community that define Harare. Approaching a fruit cart, Matthew is greeted by a friendly vendor who stands behind a display of succulent delights. There's a rainbow of colors. The meticulously arranged fruit includes bananas, oranges, the odd root of sugar cane, and round watermelons. The bananas, yellow with hints of green, beckon with their sweet promise, while the watermelon slices, juicy and red, seem to glisten in the sunlight. The vendor's knife moves with practiced precision as he deftly slices through a watermelon, creating sparkling, bite sized pieces. The sound of the knife meeting the fruit is satisfying in and of itself, a slick and full swish. Matthew's mouth waters as he contemplates the choice before him. He can almost taste the soft sweetness of the bananas, imagining their delicate texture as he bites into one. At the Same time, the watermelon chunks promise a burst of refreshing juiciness that would be a perfect antidote to the warm day. He exchanges money and a smile with the vendor. Then, with the watermelon in his bag, he continues his exploration of Mbare Market. A few steps away from the fruit stall, he spots another fender. This man's display has bundles of vibrant green spinach leaves and plump, ripe tomatoes. Approaching the stall, Matthew is greeted by the rich, earthy aroma of fresh produce. The spinach leaves, deep green and radiating health, beckon with their promise of nourishment. Their verdant hue seems to capture the vitality of the land itself, while the tomatoes, in shades ranging from deep red to orange, exude a tangy and slightly sweet fragrance. Engaging in a friendly exchange with the vendor, Matthew selects a bunch of spinach leaves, their crispness evident in his hands as he lifts them. With a nod of approval, he also chooses a handful of tomatoes. As the vendor packages his selections, he takes a moment to appreciate the simplicity and purity of the produce before him. For Matthew, these vendors signify everything he loves about Harare. The open mouthed smiles, the laughter. Here, there is no inhibition when it comes to joy. Equipped with his ingredients for lunch, Matthew decides to take a small tour of the rest of the market. He comes across a stall filled with soapstone sculptures. A Zimbabwean artist, his hands skillfully carving and shaping the stone into beautiful works of art, sits attentively behind the display. Approaching the stall, Matthew's eyes are immediately drawn to the array of sculptures. The smooth soapstone has been carved into intricate figurines, animals in graceful poses and abstract forms. The artist's hands continue to work with precision and care, revealing his deep connection to the stone and the stories it holds. Matthew is captivated by the way the artist brings out the stone's innate beauty. He transforms it into art that seems to hold the essence of Zimbabwe within its contours. His curiosity piqued, Matthew strikes up a conversation with the artist. His name is Prosper. Prosper shares stories of his process, his inspiration drawn from the land, the people, and the rich traditions of Zimbabwe. Matthew reflects upon just how palpable the artist's insights and dedication are. Each piece is nothing short of a labor of love, which reflects his cultural heritage and artistic vision. With a warm smile, Prosper gestures toward the shade of a nearby tree, a spot that offers a serene respite from the energy of the market. The pair head over to take a seat. Stopping on the way there, Matthew buys two bottles of orange soda from a man selling fizzy drinks from a plastic bucketful of ice. The glass bottles are dripping with icy water. Matthew offers one to his new friend, and together they walk toward the Msasa tree. The expansive branches create a natural canopy that shields them from the sun's intensity. As they settle on to makeshift seating, Matthew's hat and jacket. They open their soda bottles simultaneously. The faint hiss of escaping carbonation blends harmoniously with the distant sounds of market life. Taking a sip from his bottle, Matthew feels the cool, fizzy sweetness of the orange soda dancing on his tongue. He glances at Prosper, noticing the same expression of contentment on the vendor's face. As they both savor the beverage, the two men share a smile. Then their attention turns to the lively scene unfolding before them. A group of children playing with joyful abandon. Laughter fills the air as the children chase each other, their innocent, carefree nature adding a layer of vitality to the midday heat. As Matthew and Prosper sit under the tree, there are moments of comfortable silence, each sip of soda, each glance, and each playful child adding to their shared experience. In the shade, time seems to slow down, and after a while, with a languid yawn, Matthew glances at his new friend, only to find him snoozing. He decides that he should head home. As much as he'd like to have an afternoon nap, his errands aren't quite done. Standing up slowly, Matthew stretches, breathing in the fresh smell of jacaranda trees and street food. Intrigued by the rest of the unexplored market, he heads down a path that leads him to a traditional medicine stall. It's a space filled with herbs, roots, and natural remedies that have been an integral part of Zimbabwe's cultural and healing practices for generations. The vendor behind the stall offers a warm smile of welcome. His eyes seem to hold a wealth of wisdom, while his skin, weathered by the sun and etched with countless wrinkles, reflects a life spent outdoors, deeply connected to the land and its offerings. The vendor's attire is a blend of traditional and practical a well worn shirt and colorful patterned trousers. Around his neck dangles a string of beads and amulets. He moves with grace as he handles the herbs, selecting each one with care and reverence. He tells Matthew of a particular root from the moop fura tree, which, when steamed upon the face, treats dry and sore eyes. Intrigued, Matthew buys a small bundle of roots tied together with frayed string. The dust of summer is starting to settle, but the pollen in the air has caused him a slight allergy. This might help, he thinks, leaving the Energy of the market behind Matthew's curiosity leads him to a nearby church, a sanctuary of quiet reflection amidst the vibrant surroundings. As he steps through the entrance, the atmosphere changes and a sense of calm envelops him. The interior of the church is a place of simple beauty with minimal decorations. The scent of polished wood and aged stone fills the air, carrying with it the echoes of countless prayers and moments of contemplation. The hushed silence is broken only by the rustling of leaves outside and the occasional creak of wood. As Matthew walks further into the space, rows of pews stretch out before him, inviting him to take a moment of respite. He chooses a seat near the center. The wooden pew is cool to the touch, a grounding sensation. At the front of the church is the altar, adorned with a simple cross and a few candle stumps. The soft light from the candles dances, casting shadows that seem to sway in the hushed tranquility of the surroundings. As Matthew sits there, the stillness of the church leads him to reflect on the experiences of the day, the energy of the market, and the connections he has forged. Gradually, he becomes aware of the distant sounds of nature, the gentle rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the occasional breeze that brushes against the windows. Matthew's mind begins to wander, and he recalls an old Shona proverb. It translates to, your footsteps do not make the same imprint. In this moment of reflection, the meaning of the proverb unfolds before him. Each individual's journey is unique, leaving a trail of experiences, connections, and memories that shape the path they walk. As Matthew contemplates the proverb, he finds a sense of comfort and reassurance. It reminds him that every step he takes, every encounter he has, and every moment he experiences is a part of his personal journey, a journey that is distinct and meaningful in its own right. In this peaceful place, he finds a space to breathe, to center himself and to reflect on the tapestry of experiences that have shaped his day. The church becomes a haven where time slows down and the outside world fades into the background. Here, he feels a deeper connection to the present moment. Matthew's breathing grows steady and rhythmic. His mind, once filled with thoughts, begins to surrender to slumber. The soft rustling of leaves outside becomes a gentle lullaby, inviting him to embrace the stillness and allow his body to rest. As he drifts into slumber, his connection to the present moment remains, an undercurrent of awareness that accompanies him into his dreams. The church becomes a cocoon, a sanctuary where both body and spirit find peace. And in this delicate balance, between wakefulness and sleep. Matthew's afternoon nap becomes a serene interlude, a moment to rejuvenate and replenish before embracing the world anew.