Why Love, Respect, Connection and Acceptance Matter

Joanne Lockwood is joined by Ling Salter, a former mental health nurse and founder of the social enterprise Compassionate Cuppa, to explore why love, respect, connection and acceptance matter for wellbeing.

They discuss how being truly listened to can create connection and belonging, and how disconnection and unmet needs can contribute to distress. The conversation examines the stigma around “mental health,” why reaching out can feel difficult, and how compassionate, non-judgemental listening can be a first step toward support.

They also reflect on the pressures of an always-on online world and the added uncertainty and disruption brought by COVID-19—from lockdown and shifting routines to anxiety about returning to workplaces and public spaces. Ling shares how her approach focuses on meeting people where they are, exploring what’s possible, and helping individuals reconnect with purpose and acceptance. The episode closes with Ling’s reflections on Reiki as a personal practice that supported her recovery from physical pain, and how it may complement her broader wellbeing work over time.