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Hey, it's Eric. Before we begin tonight's episode, just a quick reminder. You're about to hear a few ads that help to support Listen to Sleep. If you'd rather drift off without them, you can join Listen to Sleep plus and get every episode ad free plus bonus stories and meditations. Just go to ListenToSleep.com and click on Support to learn more. This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. Do you ever think about switching insurance companies to see if you could save some cash? Progressive makes it easy to see if you could save when you bundle your home and auto policies. Try it@progressive.com Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates. Potential savings will vary. Not available in all states.
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This episode is brought to you by Amantara so I want to tell you about something I tried recently and really liked. It's a mushroom called Amanita muscaria that people have been using for centuries and it's quietly finding its way into people's lives. Right now. The way folks describe it is just calm, clear headed like the edges soften a little. Amantara is one of the leading importers of this mushroom into the us, sourcing it from remote regions of Eastern Europe, working directly with small family harvesters and doing the actual lab testing that many companies just skip. A lot of people are using it as an alternative to a glass of wine at the end of the day, something to unwind with that doesn't come with the morning after. Wait. If you're curious, and I think you will be, head to amentara.com that's a M E N T A R A dot com to explore their full lineup. Hello, friend. Welcome back to Listen to Sleep. Tonight's episode is from the Cabin Classics collection, and it's helped many people find their way to deep rest. Whether this is your first time hearing it or you're an old friend revisiting, I'm glad you're here. You'll find a new episode every Sunday and a classic like this one during the week. Some of these classics are shorter stories I read twice, a little slower and quieter the second time. Some are meditations, guided practices that go deeper than the mindfulness I weave into the stories. That deeper work is what the Cabin is all about. It's an intimate space where we meet twice a month, just me and a small community deeply committed to supporting each other as we discover more peace and purpose. Maybe you're in the middle of a big transition, the kind that changes everything and leaves you wondering who you are now. Maybe your old life doesn't fit anymore and you're not sure what comes next. Well, then, the Cabin is for you. It's where we learn to see through the stories we've been telling ourselves, the ones that keep us stuck, anxious, or disconnected from who we really are. You get access to all my mindfulness courses, personal support from me, and most importantly, a community of folks who truly show up for each other. If you're ready for more than Sleep stories, if you're ready to write a different story for your life, take the Free path assessment@jointhecabin.org in two minutes, you'll see your personalized journey and know exactly where to start. The links in the show notes. Okay, let's take a deep breath in. And out, Letting go of the day, just allowing the weight of gravity to pull you deep down into the mattress. Another deep breath in. And out. Nothing to do, nowhere to go, no one to be. This is your time. Quiet time. One more deep breath in and out. If you get tired while I'm reading to you, that's okay. Just let yourself drift off. Be reading the story tonight. Two times. The second just a little bit slower than the first. Amelia in the North A Tale of Oslo Amelia, with her fiery red hair and eyes as bright as a summer's day, was a born explorer. Her spirit yearned for the thrill of discovering new places. And this time, her journey had brought her to the picturesque city of Oslo, the heart of Norway. The morning sun was just beginning to rise as Amelia stepped off the train at Oslo's Central Station. The first rays of sunlight peeked over the city's skyline, casting a warm golden glow on the streets. The air was crisp and fresh, carrying the scent of the sea intermingled with the sweet aroma of fresh pastries wafting from nearby bakeries. Amelia began her day at a charming little cafe near the station. She savored a traditional Norwegian breakfast of freshly baked bread, brown cheese and smoked salmon. The food was simple yet delicious, each bite revealing a richness and depth of Norwegian flavors. As she sipped her coffee, looking out at the city slowly coming to life, Amelia felt a sense of anticipation bubbling within her. Her first stop was the famous Vigland Sculpture Park. As she strolled through the park, Amelia was captivated by the sight of the sun kissed flowers in full bloom. The vibrant tulips and daffodils swayed gently in the breeze, their vivid colors painting a beautiful contrast against the lush green grass. The scent of the blooming flowers was sweet and intoxicating, filling the air with a fragrant melody that echoed the tranquility of the park. But it was the park's sculptures that truly took Amelia's breath away. The intricate details of the statues, each telling a unique story of human life and emotions, left her awestruck. As she walked among these magnificent works of art, Amelia felt a profound connection with the artist's vision, the raw depiction of life resonating deeply within her. The rest of the morning was spent exploring the bustling streets of Oslo. Amelia visited the historic Akershus fortress, marveling at its sturdy stone walls that held stories of centuries past. She explored the trendy neighborhood of Grunerlocke, losing herself in the local boutiques and art galleries. She even took a moment to enjoy a traditional Norwegian waffle from a street vendor, the warm, sweet treat bringing a smile to her face. As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, Amelia found herself at the stunning Oslo Opera House. The modern architecture of the building, with its angled exterior resembling a glacier rising from the fjord, was a sight to behold. In the heart of the city, Amelia discovered a sense of peace. And as she sat on the marble steps of the opera house, looking out at the gentle waves of the Oslo Fjord, she watched as the boats sailed across the water, their silhouettes illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun. The soothing rhythm of the waves against the shore, paired with the distant hum of the city, created a symphony of sounds that was both calming and invigorating. As night fell, Amelia decided to end her day with a visit to the magical winter park. Despite the name the park was a wonderland at any time of the year. As she stepped into the park, the city's noise faded away, replaced by the hushed whispers of the wind rustling through the trees. The moon hanging high in the star studded sky cast a silver glow over the park, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Amelia could feel the magic of the night seeping into her soul, the tranquility of the park wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. Feeling a sense of drowsiness beginning to wash over her from the day's adventures, Amelia decided it was time to return to her guest house. She strolled back through the quiet city streets, the moonlight casting long, comforting shadows. Her mind was alive with the day's experiences and a sense of serene satisfaction enveloped her. Emilia had learned so much about Oslo, but even more importantly, about herself. Reaching her guest house, she was welcomed by the rustic warmth of her quaint accommodations. It was a cozy haven that quickly began to feel like home. She climbed the stairs to her room, her steps slow and relaxed. Once inside, she changed into comfortable night clothes and feeling the day's adventures catching up with her, decided to unwind with some journaling. She pulled out a fresh notebook and began to write. As she wrote, she relived her adventures, her words weaving a beautiful narrative of her journey through the city. Her heart full and her spirit content, Amelia decided to call it a night. She climbed into the soft, inviting bed, her mind still abuzz with the day's discoveries. She couldn't help but smile as she thought of all the incredible experiences she'd had, her heart filled with anticipation for tomorrow's adventures. As she drifted off to sleep, her thoughts were filled with her memories of the wonderful day that night. Each dream was a celebration of her journey, a testament to the magic that was Oslo. The following morning. As Amelia stretched and opened her eyes, she was greeted by the comforting scent of fresh pine mingling with the crisp morning air. A shaft of golden sunlight filtered through the trees above, casting a warm glow on Amelia's face. The serenity of her surroundings invigorated her spirit, filling her with a renewed sense of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead. Amelia made her way back to the heart of the city. Her first stop was the bustling marketplace of Akurbriga. It was a hub of activity with vendors selling a colorful variety of fresh produce, seafood and traditional Norwegian delicacies. The scent of fresh bread, salty sea air and fragrant flowers filled the marketplace, creating a unique bouquet of aromas that was both invigorating and comforting. Amelia spent her morning wandering through the Rows of stalls taking in the vibrant colors and fascinating flavors on display. She sampled a variety of local foods, from sweet cloudberries to fresh shrimp and salty dried cod. Each new flavor was a delightful revelation, enriching her understanding of the city's culinary culture. Leaving the market, Amelia headed towards the iconic Carl Johannes Gata. The street was lined with beautiful buildings, each one showcasing a different architectural style. As she strolled along this bustling avenue, Amelia was taken by the harmonious blend of old and new, tradition and modernity that defined the cityscape of Oslo. Among the buildings that caught Amelia's attention was the Royal palace, standing majestically at the end of the street. The grandeur of the palace, with its ornate facade and beautifully manicured gardens, was a testament to Norway's regal history. Amelia spent some time walking through the palace gardens, her senses delighted by the scent of blooming roses and the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Following her visit to the palace, Amelia decided to explore Oslo's art and history. She visited the National Gallery, where she was captivated by the powerful works of Edvard Munch, including his iconic painting the Scream. The raw emotion depicted in the artwork touched Amelia's heart and left a lasting impression on her. Amelia then decided to visit the Oslo City Museum, where she learned about the city's fascinating history. She was particularly intrigued by the tales of the city's Viking past and the stories of legendary explorers. The museum's exhibits brought these stories to life, transporting Amelia back in time. After a full day of exploration, Amelia decided to treat herself to a traditional Norwegian dinner at a small local restaurant recommended by the sweet woman who ran her guest house. She opted for the famous Foricol, a hearty lamb and cabbage stew that was the perfect comfort food after a long day. The stew was warm and filling, each spoonful a delightful blend of flavors that melted in her mouth. As Amelia savored her meal, she reflected on her day. She thought of the bustling marketplace, the majestic royal palace, the powerful artworks, and the fascinating history. Each experience was a piece of the puzzle that made up the beautiful city of Oslo, and Amelia was grateful to be a part of it. Her return to her lodging was again under the soft glow of the moon. But this time the evening was spent in the guest house's common room, an area she hadn't explored before. The room was filled with an assortment of books about Norway and Oslo's history. The soft din of other guests chatting in hushed tones provided a soothing background noise as she flipped through a book about Norwegian folklore. Returning to her room, she exchanged her Travel journal for a sketchbook illustrating her journey through expressive drawings. Each stroke of her pencil was a testament to her unforgettable experiences. From the towering royal palace to the serene Oslo fjord, Amelia found a new way to share her travels. The sketches weaving a silent but compelling narrative of her journey. Instead of the rustic charm that had welcomed her the previous night, tonight she noticed the finer details of her room. The delicate lace curtains rustling softly in the night breeze. The intricate patterns on the hand woven rug, the comforting warmth of the vintage radiator and the soft glow of the bedside lamp creating a cozy ambiance. These small details, previously unnoticed, now added another new dimension to her Oslo experience. As she closed her eyes, the hushed whispers of the city outside her window served as a lullaby. Her dreams were filled with with vivid scenes from her day. The trip to Oslo was more than just a journey for Amelia. It was an exploration of a vibrant culture, a dive into a rich history and a personal journey of discovery. It was a reminder of the magic that lay in every corner of the world, just waiting to be discovered. And so, as Amelia dreamt of her adventures. It's an invitation to you too, to dream of your adventures. Wake up with a renewed excitement for the experiences that await. Let the magic of travel spark a flame within you. Good night. And dream of the world that awaits. Amelia, with her fiery red hair and eyes as bright, bright as a summer's day, was a born explorer. Her spirit yearned for the thrill of discovering new places. And this time, her journey had brought her to the picturesque city of Oslo, the heart of of Norway. The morning sun was just beginning to rise as Amelia stepped off the train at Oslo's central Station. The first rays of sunlight peeked over the city's skyline, casting a warm golden glow on the streets. The air was crisp and fresh, carrying the scent of the sea intermingled with the sweet aroma of fresh pastries wafting from nearby bakeries. Emilia began her day at a charming little cafe near the station. She savored a traditional Norwegian breakfast of freshly baked bread, brown cheese and smoked salmon. The food was simple yet delicious, each bite revealing the richness and depth of Norwegian flavors. As she sipped her coffee, looking out at the city slowly coming to life, Amelia felt a sense of anticipation bubbling within her. Her first stop was the famous Vigland Sculpture Park. As she strolled through the park, Amelia was captivated by the sight of the sun kissed FL in full bloom. The vibrant tulips and daffodils swayed gently in the breeze, their vivid colors painting a beautiful contrast against the lush green grass, the scent of the blooming flowers was sweet and intoxicating, filling the air with a fragrant melody that echoed the tranquility of the park. But it was the park's sculptures that truly took Amelia's breath away. The intricate details of the statues, each telling a unique story of human life and and emotions, left her awestruck. As she walked among these magnificent works of art, Amelia felt a profound connection with the artist's vision, the raw depiction of life resonating deeply within her. The rest of the morning was spent exploring the bustling streets of Oslo. Emilia visited the historic Acreshus fortress, marveling at its sturdy stone walls that held stories of centuries past. She explored the trendy neighborhood of Grunerlocke, losing herself in the local boutiques and art galleries. She even took a moment to enjoy a traditional Norwegian waffle from a street vendor, the warm, sweet treat bringing a smile to her face. As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, Amelia found herself at the stunning Oslo Opera House. The modern architecture of the building, with its angled exterior resembling a glacier rising from the fjord, was a sight to behold in the heart of the city. Amelia discovered a sense of peace as she sat on the marble steps of the opera house, looking out at the gentle waves of the Oslo Fjord. She watched as the boats sailed across the water, their silhouettes illuminated by the soft glow of of the setting sun. The soothing rhythm of the waves against the shore, paired with the distant hum of the city, created a symphony of sounds that was both calming and invigorating. As night fell, Amelia decided to end her day with a visit to the magical winter park. Despite the name, the park was a wonderland at any time of the year. As she stepped into the park, the city's noise faded away, replaced by the hushed whispers of the wind rustling through the trees. The moon hanging high in the star studded sky cast a silver glow over the park, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Amelia could feel the magic of the night seeping into her soul, the tranquility of the park wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. Feeling a sense of drowsiness beginning to wash over her from the day's adventures, Amelia decided it was time to return to her guest house. She strolled back through the quiet city streets, the moonlight casting long, comforting shadows. Her mind was alive with the day's experiences and a sense of serene satisfaction enveloped her. Amelia had learned so much about Oslo, but even more importantly, about herself. Reaching her guest house, she was welcomed by the rustic warmth of her quaint accommodations. It was a cozy haven that quickly began to feel like home. She climbed the stairs to her room, her steps slow and relaxed. Once inside, she changed into comfortable night clothes and, feeling the day's adventures catching up with her, decided to unwind with some journaling. She pulled out a fresh notebook and began to write. As she wrote, she relived her adventures, her words weaving a beautiful narrative of her journey through the city. Her heart full and her spirit content, Amelia decided to call it a night. She climbed into the soft, inviting bed, her mind still a bit abuzz with the day's discoveries. She couldn't help but smile as she thought of all the incredible experiences she'd had, her heart filled with anticipation for tomorrow's adventures. As she drifted off to sleep, her thoughts were filled of the memories of her wonderful day that night. Each dream was a celebration of her journey, a testament to the magic that was Oslo. The following morning. As Amelia stretched and opened her eyes, she was greeted by the comforting scent of fresh pine mingling with the crisp morning air. A shaft of golden sunlight filtered through the trees above, casting a warm glow on Amelia's face. The serenity of her surroundings invigorated her spirit, filling her with a renewed sense of excitement for the adventures that lay ahead. Amelia made her way back to the heart of the city. Her first stop was the marketplace at Auca Briga. It was a hub of activity with vendors selling a colorful variety of fresh produce, seafood and traditional Norwegian delicacies. The scent of fresh bread, salty sea air and fragrant flowers filled the marketplace, creating a unique bouquet of aromas that was both invigorating and comforting. Amelia spent her morning wandering through the rows of stalls, taking in the vibrant colors and fascinating flavors on display. She sampled a variety of local foods, from sweet cloudberries to fresh shrimp and salty dried cod. Each new flavor was a delightful revelation, enriching her understanding of the city's culinary culture. Leaving the market, Amelia headed towards the iconic Carl Johan Scatter. The street was lined with beautiful buildings, each one showcasing a different architectural style. As she strolled along the bustling avenue, Amelia was taken by the harmonious blend of old and new, tradition and modernity that defined the cityscape of Oslo. Among the buildings that caught Amelia's attention was the Royal palace, standing majestically at the end of the street. The grandeur of the palace, with its ornate facade and beautifully manicured gardens, was a testament to Norway's regal history. Amelia spent some time walking through the palace gardens, her senses delighted by the scent of blooming roses and the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Following her visit to the palace, Amelia decided to explore Oslo's art and history. She visited the National Gallery, where she was captivated by the powerful works of Edvard Munch, including his iconic painting, the Scream. The raw emotion depicted in the artwork touched Amelia's heart and left a lasting impression on her. Amelia then decided to visit the Oslo City Museum, where she learned about the city's fascinating history. She was particularly intrigued by the tales of the city's Viking past and the stories of legendary explorers. The museum's exhibits brought these stories to life, transporting Amelia back in time. After a full day of exploration, Amelia decided to treat herself to a traditional Norwegian dinner at a small local restaurant recommended by the sweet woman who ran her guest house. She opted for the famous Foricol, a hearty lamb and cabbage stew that was the perfect comfort food after a long day. The stew was warm and filling, each spoonful a delightful blend of flavors that melted in her mouth. As Amelia savored her meal, she reflected on her day. She thought of the bustling marketplace, the majestic royal palace, the powerful artworks and the fascinating history. Each experience was a piece of the puzzle that made up the beautiful city of Oslo, and Amelia was grateful to be a part of it. Her return to her lodging was again under the soft glow of the moon. But this time the evening was spent in the guest house's common room, an area she hadn't explored before. The room was filled with an assortment of books about Norway and Oslo's history. The soft din of other guests chatting in hushed tones provided a soothing background noise as she flipped through a book about Norwegian folklore. Returning to her room, she exchanged her travel journal for a sketchbook illustrating her journey through expressive drawings. Each stroke of her pencil was a testament to to her unforgettable experiences. From the towering royal palace to the serene Oslo Fjord, Amelia found a new way to share her travels. The sketches weaving a silent but compelling narrative of her journey. Instead of the rustic charm that had welcomed her the previous night, tonight she noticed the finer details of her room. The delicate lace curtains rustling softly in the night breeze. The intricate patterns on the hand woven rug, the comforting warmth of the vintage radiator and the soft glow of the bedside lamp creating a cozy ambiance. These small details, previously unnoticed, now added another new dimension to her Oslo experience. As she closed her eyes, the hushed whispers of the city outside her window served as a lullaby. Her dreams were filled with vivid scenes from her day. The trip to Oslo was more than just a journey. For Amelia, it was an exploration of a vibrant culture, a dive into a rich history, and a personal journey of discovery. It was a reminder of the magic that lay in every corner of the world waiting to be discovered. And so, as Amelia dreamt of her adventures, it's an invitation to you, too, to dream of your adventures. Wake up with renewed excitement for the experiences that await. Let the magic of travel spark a flame within you. Good night. And dream of the world that awaits.
Host: Erik Ireland
Release Date: May 14, 2026
In this calming Cabin Classic, Erik Ireland transports listeners to Oslo through the gentle, immersive tale of Amelia, an adventurous soul discovering not just a vibrant Scandinavian city, but herself. Designed to foster relaxation and restful sleep, the story is read twice—first at a standard pace, then slower and quieter—allowing the listener to settle deeply into its peaceful atmosphere. The episode exemplifies the "Listen To Sleep" ethos: soothing bedtime storytelling infused with mindfulness, sensory detail, and gentle encouragement to explore both the world and one’s inner landscape.
| Time | Segment | |----------|------------------------------------------------| | 04:07 | Breathwork and transition into story | | 05:36 | Amelia arrives in Oslo | | 07:15 | Vigeland Sculpture Park | | 09:22 | Oslo Opera House at sunset | | 11:25 | Nighttime in the Winter Park | | 15:20 | Exploring Akker Brygge Marketplace | | 17:02 | Royal Palace and cityscape reflections | | 18:22 | National Gallery and the power of ‘The Scream’ | | 20:05 | Journaling and sketching her journey | | 21:44 | Reflection on travel and discovery | | 22:48 | Episode sign-off and invitation to dream | | 22:54 | Story read a second time, more slowly |
This Cabin Classic not only tells the story of Amelia’s journey through Oslo but invites the listener on their own gentle voyage—towards sleep, self-reflection, and new dreams. Erik Ireland’s softly-spoken encouragement to explore, notice beauty in small details, and delight in discovery echoes long after the story ends.
For a quiet moment of rest, or inspiration to dream of your own adventures, this episode is a gentle, soul-nourishing listen.