For Cali Curandera, caring for her daughter meant travelling from her home in Warwick to Highland, supporting her through diagnosis, surgery, and the long recovery that followed. A former journalist turned therapist, she had already spent years helping others through massage, psychotherapeutic coaching, and mindfulness.
Like many Carers, Cali found the experience both deeply meaningful and incredibly isolating. Being far from her own support network made it even harder. In those moments, something small but powerful became essential, finding just a few minutes to pause, reset, and breathe. That is where her idea began.
Cali had long used guided meditation in her work, helping people create space in their minds and gently ease both physical and emotional strain. But after attending a Connecting Carers event, she realised something important, Carers often don’t have the time, flexibility, or energy to attend appointments or structured sessions. What they need is support that fits around their lives.
With the support of The Caroline Thompson Legacy Fund, Cali set out to create a series of guided meditations designed specifically for Carers, something they could access anytime, anywhere. Using recording equipment, music, and artwork, she brought these resources to life in a way that feels both calming and accessible.
Instead of traditional guided meditations, Cali created story-based experiences, blending mindfulness with gentle, immersive storytelling. Drawing on ancient myths and her love of creative writing, she designed each piece to feel more like “dipping into an audiobook” than a formal meditation. For many people, that makes all the difference.
“It can be hard to get into meditation without guidance,” she explains. “Stories feel natural and familiar, and they allow people to relax without pressure.”
For Cali, creating these recordings was not only a way to support others, but also a way to support herself. Returning to her roots in radio and storytelling, she found comfort and creativity in the process. At a time when there was a lot to navigate, it gave her a sense of connection and purpose.
And that’s exactly what she hopes other Carers will feel too.
These meditations are designed to offer something simple but vital, a guilt-free moment of time-out. Whether it’s a few minutes in the same room or a quiet pause at the end of the day, they create space to step back, breathe, and recharge, without ever having to leave the caring role behind.
Over time, those small moments can build emotional resilience, helping Carers feel stronger and more supported. But perhaps most importantly, they carry a message:
“You are doing an incredible job. And you deserve care too”.
Through this growing collection of meditations, Cali hopes Carers will feel a sense of connection, a reminder that they are not alone, and that even in the busiest, most demanding days, there is always a moment to pause.
Take a moment for yourself
Cali’s guided meditations are available to listen to anytime. Whether you have five minutes or a little longer, they’re here to support you, whenever you need them.
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