Explore the creative world of Gavin Holmes, a music producer and web developer based in the East of England. Dive into his musings on nature, art, mathematics, philosophy, consciousness, and technology.
Latest posts
- My Experience of Developer Burnout
After twelve months of relentless headaches, muscle aches, and flu-like symptoms, I found myself unable to understand my own code. Could it be burnout, or something more sinister? - On Wristwatches
I went back to wearing an analogue wristwatch. Here’s how wearing a simple analogue watch made life a little quieter and more peaceful. - The Mindfulness of Breathing
Here I describe “the Mindfulness of Breathing”, a calming meditation where we focus on our breathing to help find respite from mental restlessness, and gently train our “monkey mind”. I learned this technique and practise it regularly at our local Buddhist Centre. - On vinyl, LPs and slow music
I recently bought a record player, and dusted off my old vinyl collection from my student days. After having streamed music for years now, I noticed a real shift in my appreciation of music as a result. Here are my observations. - Journalling: a therapist in my pocket
I started journalling four years ago during an Introduction to Counselling Course. We were encouraged to keep a journal of reflections, and my journal has since become a constant companion with unexpected benefits. - Meditation: a description of the Metta Bhavana Meditation
There are many different meditative practices to be found in Buddhism, Yoga, or even in your local Mindfulness classes. The Metta Bhavana is one that is taught at my local Buddhist Centre, and its purpose is the cultivation (‘Bhavana’) of compassion and kindness (‘Metta’). - Solstice, solitude and socialisingToday marks the Summer Solstice. For the first time in quite a while I had the opportunity to catch up with some good friends after a long period of social distancing and isolation.
- Fable of the Porcupine
You’ll find the porcupine-warming tale “The Fable of the Porcupine” on many inspirational websites, and many have shared it on other social media.