Episódios
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In today's episode, Gina provides guidance for how to the answer the question about whether what you are experiencing is just stress or full fledged anxiety. The symptoms of stress are discussed and contrasted with those of anxiety. Being able to know the difference can help you cope more effectively. Strategies to manage both conditions are shared. Listen in and come to better understand stress and anxiety!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Stress is the trash of modern life—we all generate it, but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.
-Danzae Pace
Chapters
0:42 Understanding Stress and Anxiety
2:03 Defining Stress
3:26 Defining Anxiety
4:46 Triggers of Stress and Anxiety
6:30 Physical Symptoms Explained
7:48 Emotional and Cognitive Differences
9:49 Time Frames of Stress and Anxiety
11:29 Analogies for Understanding
13:32 Managing Stress and Anxiety
16:04 Recognizing Escalation Signs
17:10 Differentiating Stress from Anxiety
18:37 Questions for Self-Reflection
19:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I explore the crucial distinction between stress and anxiety—concepts that are often used interchangeably but represent fundamentally different emotional responses. Understanding the difference can empower listeners to take control of their emotional well-being and develop more effective coping strategies. Through the episode, I provide insights based on the experiences I've gathered through coaching, aiming to clarify these often-confused terms and offer practical tools for self-management.
I begin by defining stress as a response to external pressures or demands, often linked to specific situations like job deadlines or family responsibilities. This type of stress is identifiable and can be felt physically, manifesting as headaches, muscle tension, and rapid heart rates. It’s important to recognize that these symptoms typically dissipate once the external stressors are resolved. On the other hand, anxiety is characterized by feelings of apprehension or fear about potential future events that lack immediate external triggers. I describe anxiety as a feeling of impending doom or worry, often accompanied by an array of symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, and hypervigilance, which can persist long after stressors have been removed.
The conversation progresses into examining the causes and manifestations of both stress and anxiety. While stress stems from identifiable external factors, anxiety often emerges from internal negative thoughts or worries, leading to a disproportionate reaction to situations that may not warrant such feelings. These variations highlight how stress creates a wave that comes and goes, whereas anxiety can be likened to a cloud that lingers, obscuring clarity of thought even in calm circumstances.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses the role of the subconscious mind in our overall anxiety experience. The subconscious mind has powerful effects on how our anxiety manifests in our lives. Using the knowledge of how this occurs, provided in this episode, we can better develop healthier responses to anxiety as it presents itself to us. Get an advantage over your subconscious mind and your anxiety, listen in today!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.
-Carl Jung
Chapters
0:42 Understanding the Subconscious and Anxiety
3:38 Negative Thought Patterns and Anxiety
4:47 Conditioned Responses to Anxiety
6:02 Fear of the Unknown
7:22 Self-Protection Mechanisms
8:59 Beliefs and Self-Perception
10:22 Resistance to Change
11:54 Working with Mindfulness
14:11 Disrupting the Anxiety Cycle
16:35 Reducing Avoidance Behaviors
18:47 Strengthening Emotional Regulation
20:03 Reframing Anxious Thoughts
21:17 The Power of Acceptance
22:12 Conclusion and Future Insights
Summary
In this episode, we delve into the significant role of the subconscious mind in shaping anxiety and our emotional responses. I explore how deeply entrenched beliefs, past experiences, and automatic reactions stored in the subconscious can perpetuate anxiety disorders. We discuss how negative experiences from our past, such as traumas or distressing events, can trigger automatic anxiety responses later in life, often leading us to react irrationally to perceived threats.
I share personal experiences to illustrate these concepts, including my own journey with anxiety stemming from a traumatic dog bite in childhood. I explain how the subconscious holds onto memories that can cause an anxious reaction even in harmless situations. Through this narrative, I emphasize the importance of understanding these mechanisms so we can begin to work on them.
We proceed to discuss various automatic negative thought patterns that are driven by the subconscious, such as catastrophizing and all-or-nothing thinking. These ingrained patterns, occurring without conscious awareness, can significantly increase feelings of fear and helplessness. Additionally, we touch on conditioned responses, where certain stimuli become linked to anxiety, highlighting the need to recognize these triggers and our reactions to them.
The episode further examines the fear of the unknown, a common anxiety catalyst. Our subconscious mind seeks predictability and safety, which can lead to anxiety in uncertain situations. This is often compounded by self-protective mechanisms, where anxiety acts as a defense, particularly in social contexts. Understanding how our beliefs about ourselves and the world contribute to anxiety is crucial for managing these feelings effectively.
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In today's episode, Gina identifies and discusses the various causes of anxiety. Let this episode open your eyes to the many things in our lives and backgrounds that can contribute to our anxiety-related suffering. With a better understanding of the causes of our anxiety, we can move forward more easily and effectively on our anxiety clearing journey. Listen in today!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.”
-Dan Millman
Chapters
0:42 Introduction to Anxiety's Causes
2:54 Understanding Personal Factors
6:45 The Role of Trauma in Anxiety
8:12 Substance Abuse and Anxiety
9:19 Environmental Influences
11:50 Coping Skills and Anxiety
14:02 Social and Cultural Pressures
15:49 Fear of Uncertainty
17:00 Managing Academic and Work Pressures
17:47 Taking Control of Your Anxiety
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the complexities of anxiety, exploring its various causes and contributing factors that impact our mental well-being. The focus today is on understanding how anxiety manifests in our lives and the importance of recognizing these triggers rather than believing that eliminating stress or anxious feelings is the ultimate goal.
I emphasize that while we may learn to manage our anxiety through mindfulness and calming techniques, the reality is that stress and anxiety will always be part of life. The key is transforming our responses to anxiety and understanding the underlying thought patterns that fuel these feelings. Anxiety is an emotional response influenced by a multitude of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental stresses. These aspects often interplay to shape our vulnerability to anxiety disorders.
Throughout the episode, I highlight several significant contributors to anxiety, starting with genetics and family history. Research indicates a hereditary component to anxiety, yet it’s critical to note that environmental influences play a substantial role too. Our surroundings and familial relationships can shape our mental states, and it’s vital to evaluate both genetics and context when considering our anxiety levels.
Next, I dive into the role of brain chemistry and how imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, can affect our mood regulation, potentially leading to increased anxiety responses. This biochemical complexity underscores the significance of lifestyle choices—prioritizing good health can positively influence our mental state.
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In today's episode, Gina shares the wisdom of Jon Kabat-Zinn regarding the value of building a mindfulness practice, especially emphasizing the importance of regularity of practice. Many people struggle with beginning a regular mindfulness practice, often fearing that they are not doing it right. This episode is here to provide you with the confidence you need to establish and continue a regular mindfulness practice. The benefits of mindfulness for anxiety reduction are immense and available to everyone. Listen in and improve your mindfulness practice today!
Book mentioned
Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief: Practices to Reclaim Your Body and Your by Jon Kabat-Zinn Ph.D. Link to the book https://amzn.to/3NJl248
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Pain may be unavoidable at times, but suffering―in other words, how we relate to the pain―is optional.
-Jon Kabat-Zinn
Chapters
0:42 Introduction to Mindfulness
3:09 The Power of Disciplined Practice
8:44 The Journey of Mindfulness
13:02 Letting Go of Expectations
14:07 Beautiful Quotes from Jon Kabat-Zinn
18:00 Mindfulness as a Complement to Treatment
20:31 Closing Thoughts and Quotes
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative teachings of Jon Kabat-Zinn, particularly from his book, "Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief." Emphasizing the profound impact this work has had on my own journey through anxiety, I explore how mindfulness meditation serves as a powerful tool not only for pain relief but also for managing anxiety and stress.
I highlight Kabat-Zinn's illustrious background as the founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Clinic, where his insights stem from a deep-rooted Buddhist practice. While his teachings do not explicitly teach Buddhism, the foundations of his mindfulness practice are steeped in its principles, allowing him to articulate his messages with remarkable clarity. The essence of today's discussion revolves around the parallels between pain and anxiety, suggesting that the journey to understanding and alleviating both conditions is intrinsically linked.
Central to our dialogue is the importance of disciplined practice. I emphasize Kabat-Zinn's assertion that mindfulness must be treated as a daily discipline rather than a sporadic endeavor. It's crucial to establish a strong foundation in meditation before integrating mindfulness into other activities in life, such as running or yoga. Only then can we truly harness the benefits of mindfulness as a consistent practice and utilize it to navigate daily stressors effectively.
I draw attention to key concepts presented in Chapter Six of Kabat-Zinn's book, focusing on the necessity of consistent mindfulness practice. He likens mindfulness to physical exercise, advocating for long-term commitment and resilience rather than immediate results. The discussion includes insights on developing a compassionate relationship with both anxiety and pain by learning to accept and sit with discomfort rather than resist it.
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In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener email, sharing key wisdom regarding the importance of checking the second fear or the fear of the fear of having an anxiety-panic attack. You have the ability to minimize the impact of the initial onset of anxiety through how you interpret and respond to the physiological symptoms and sensations that go along with it.
Grab an awesome audio book for FREE, like The Power Of Now by Eckhart Tolle www.anxietycoachespodcast.com/audibletrial
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Stress is caused by being ‘here' but wanting to be ‘there'.
–Eckhart Tolle
Chapters
0:04 Introduction to Anxiety
3:44 Stepping Off the Merry-Go-Round
8:12 Acceptance and Understanding
10:47 Trusting Yourself
13:28 Dealing with Panic Attacks
15:07 Empowering Yourself Against Fear
15:23 Closing Thoughts and Quotes
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the pervasive issue of anticipatory anxiety, specifically addressing the phenomenon often referred to as "the fear of the fear." This fear can become a significant hurdle in the journey towards managing anxiety, and through the lens of a listener's email, I aim to shed light on coping strategies that can foster a sense of peace and calm.
I begin by recognizing the weight of long-term anxiety struggles, particularly drawing from my personal experience and the stories of countless listeners who have faced similar battles. This notion of reverting to anxiety after a period of relief is common, and it’s essential to understand that this cycle can perpetuate itself through self-talk. A line from the email I received resonated deeply: “Oh no, here we go again.” This phrase reflects an all-too-familiar sentiment that can trigger a spiraling response, igniting a cascade of stress rather than allowing room for acceptance and healing.
A significant part of our discussion revolves around the concept of acceptance. I emphasize the importance of acknowledging one’s current state without judgment. Over my own journey of wrestling with anxiety, I found that accepting the physical sensations and thoughts I experienced—rather than fighting against them—was a crucial step in lessening their power. I explore how by disassociating our identity from these feelings and realizing that they are transient sensations, we can begin to navigate our anxiety more effectively.
The principle of non-judgment plays a critical role in this process. I introduce the metaphor of stepping off the anxiety merry-go-round, which vividly illustrates the chaos that accompanies unrecognized and unaddressed fears. It’s vital for listeners to realize that they can observe their thoughts and sensations without labeling them as either good or bad. This detachment can mitigate the influence of stressors while reinforcing the understanding that such experiences are merely parts of the larger journey rather than defining elements of who we are.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses tools to help you stay in the present moment, even amidst the great stress and chaos life can throw at us. Many of these exercises can be put to use in your journal, including reflection to help identify anxiety triggers. Other suggestions include talking with supportive others and creating plans for future steps. Listen in for the complete list of suggestions to keep you in the present moment and to keep the stress and anxiety away!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.
– Thich Nhat Hanh
Chapters
0:42 Introduction to Anxiety and Calmness
2:41 Identifying Your Triggers
6:24 Taking a Step Back
9:56 Talking It Out
11:17 Making a Plan
13:51 Seeking Support
14:59 Staying Present
16:33 Observing Your Thoughts
18:00 Practicing Self-Compassion
19:36 Key Steps for Managing Challenges
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the intricacies of managing anxiety during life’s inevitable storms. Life throws challenges our way, whether it's juggling work deadlines, handling family distractions, or simply trying to unwind amidst constant notifications. I explore practical strategies to help us maintain a calm and centered presence when faced with these triggers, as anxiety can grip us more fiercely when we feel overwhelmed.
Understanding our triggers is the first step I discuss. Each of us has unique situations that provoke stress or anxiety. By writing down these triggers, we can begin to identify patterns that allow us to avoid or better manage them. For instance, if work deadlines induce panic, starting projects earlier can alleviate that pressure. On the other hand, if family gatherings are triggers, planning enjoyable activities can create a more positive experience. I encourage listeners to adopt proactive habits that reduce stressors before they escalate.
We then explore the importance of taking a step back during high-stress moments. Acknowledging the need for distance in stressful encounters allows us to observe the situation more clearly and respond more thoughtfully. This exercise not only applies in professional settings like meetings but also in personal relationships, helping to diffuse conflicts before they escalate. Additionally, I recommend establishing a centered space prior to engaging with external pressures like emails or calls.
Talking through our stressors with others can also bring clarity. Whether it's discussing work frustrations with a colleague or seeking support from friends, sharing our burdens can often lead to newfound insights and actionable solutions. I further discuss the power of creating structured plans for overwhelming tasks, which can help restore a sense of control and calm.
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In today's episode, Gina shares a powerful guided meditation to help you release your worries before sleep. Allow this soothing guided meditation to release you stress and worries from your mind and help you achieve a deeper and longer sleep. Prepare to embrace more peace and calm with this lovely night-time stress soother. Listen in today, then listen in again at night!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Chapters
0:42 Welcome to Bedtime Meditation
5:51 Embracing the Present Moment
8:02 Letting Go of Worries
9:40 Self-Acceptance and Peace
10:17 Cultivating Calmness
13:58 Trusting Tomorrow
16:06 Closing Reflections
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative power of bedtime meditation to facilitate a smoother transition from the day's stressors to restful sleep. As your host, I emphasize the benefits of releasing worries at the end of the day, allowing ourselves the opportunity to let go of burdens and embrace tranquility. Guided meditation presents an effective method to calm the mind and prepare the body for restorative slumber, which is crucial for those who find their thoughts racing as they lie down at night.
I discuss the multiple advantages of incorporating a guided meditation into your nighttime routine. This practice not only calms the mind but also serves to reduce stress and anxiety, creating a positive framework for sleep. I highlight the importance of establishing a positive sleep ritual, which contrasts with the anxiety that often accompanies bedtime for many individuals. By fostering a nighttime routine that embraces relaxation and self-acceptance, we can alleviate the tension that tends to amplify in the dark, quiet moments before sleep.
One of the key aspects I touch upon is the idea that guided meditations can help break the cycle of insomnia by promoting emotional regulation. It’s about nurturing ourselves through mindful practices that support a seamless transition into sleep and enhance our overall sleep quality. This episode further encourages listeners to consider their mental state before bed and take proactive steps towards cultivating a peaceful environment that fosters deep, uninterrupted sleep.
To illustrate these points, I guide listeners through an accompanying bedtime meditation at the episode's conclusion. I invite everyone to find a comfortable position, relax, and connect with their breath as they embark on a journey of self-exploration and calmness. The meditation encompasses gentle affirmations that encourage listeners to release their worries, embrace self-acceptance, and create a safe space within themselves where they can find peace and rest. It reinforces the notion that everyone, regardless of experience with meditation, can access this simple yet powerful tool.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses the benefits of incorporating meditation into your bedtime routine before sleep. Meditation is a powerful practice that can calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. Meditation primes your mind and body for a peaceful, restful sleep. Listen in to learn more about the benefits of meditation as preparation for sleep and start sleeping better today!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
The mind is everything. What you think, you become.
–Buddha
Chapters
0:42 Introduction to Guided Meditation
2:15 Benefits of Bedtime Meditation
4:27 Reducing Stress and Anxiety
6:22 Improving Sleep Quality
7:50 Enhancing Mind-Body Connection
9:22 Breaking the Cycle of Insomnia
11:25 Supporting Emotional Regulation
13:38 Trying New Meditations
14:42 Accessibility of Guided Meditations
15:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative power of guided meditation as a bedtime ritual for those struggling with sleep. I often hear from individuals who feel they cannot meditate because they tend to fall asleep during the process. I challenge this notion by suggesting that there is no better way to drift off than through focused meditation. Drawing from my own experiences in day-long silent meditations, I share anecdotes of how even seasoned practitioners find themselves nodding off, and how this is perfectly acceptable.
Guided meditation at bedtime presents a multitude of benefits, particularly for those who find it hard to settle down at night. By incorporating this practice into your nightly routine, you can cultivate a calm mindset, which is essential in reducing racing thoughts and the mental clutter that often accompanies the transition to sleep. It's important to recognize that the act of falling asleep during meditation is indicative of a deeper necessity for rest, and it suggests that you can use this time to gently guide yourself into a peaceful state.
As the podcast progresses, I explore several key reasons to consider guided meditation as a vital part of your bedtime routine. First and foremost, it effectively calms your mind, shifting your thoughts from anxiety and worry to tranquility. This transition is aided by focusing on a soothing voice and serene imagery, allowing your brain to gradually leave behind the busyness of the day.
Additionally, I discuss how a bedtime meditation can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, which are frequent barriers to a good night's sleep. Through relaxing breathing exercises and calming instructions, guided meditations activate the parasympathetic nervous system, fostering an environment conducive to relaxation, decreasing stress hormone levels, and signaling to your body that it's time to unwind.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses some of the core fundamentals of self-care. By keeping the needs of our mind, body and spirit met, we are better able to manage our well-being and any anxiety symptoms we may experience. Listen in for tips on how to keep yourself well cared for and keep unhealthy anxiety at bay!
Episodes mentioned in today's show
528: SELF CARE WHAT IT REALLY IS LISTENER Q AND A
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/528-self-care-what-it-really-is-listener-q-and-a?rq=528
598: FILL YOUR CUP FIRST TO KEEP ANXIETY AT BAY
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/598-fill-your-cup-first-to-keep-anxiety-at-bay?rq=598
252: ELIMINATING GUILT OVER SELF CARE LISTENER Q ANSWERED
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/nyqop7xi7boak31bingfxzmjswd3wt?rq=252
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
The time to relax is when you don't have time for it.
– Sydney J. Harris
Chapters
0:00 Introduction to Anxiety Self-Care
6:36 Identifying Personal Needs
9:19 Exploring Self-Care Resources
11:00 Essential Practices for Self-Care
16:10 Building Connections for Well-Being
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the foundational concepts of anxiety self-care and how to get started on this essential journey toward mental well-being. Inspired by a lively discussion in our Facebook group, where members expressed feelings of overwhelm and posed the question, “Where do I begin?”, I realized the need to provide clarity on this crucial topic. Understanding where to start with self-care can be challenging, especially when we often find ourselves focused on external responsibilities and the needs of others rather than tending to our own inner peace.
I emphasize the importance of self-care as a holistic approach that includes nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Before we can effectively assist those around us—whether they are family, friends, or colleagues—we must first attend to our own needs. Drawing on the familiar analogy of putting on our own oxygen masks first in an airplane emergency, I highlight that we cannot effectively support others if we ourselves are in distress or depleted. The act of self-care is not selfish; rather, it is a vital step that empowers us to contribute positively to the lives of others without feeling overwhelmed or resentful.
Throughout the episode, I also address common misconceptions and guilt surrounding self-care practices. Many tend to prioritize external responsibilities over their own well-being, leading to exhaustion or anxiety. I urge listeners to reflect on their own lives and check in with themselves—assessing how they feel, what activities they engage in for self-care, and identifying any gaps in fulfilling their personal needs. This process can be aided by journaling and self-reflection, which can illuminate areas that may require more attention.
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In today's episode, Gina finishes her discussion of the important link between anxiety and eating disorders. Anxiety can be a risk factor for developing eating disorders as eating disorders can develop as a coping mechanism to anxiety. Both conditions can reinforce each other, creating a cycle. Listen in to better understand this connection and how to understand your own eating in response to stress, and what to watch out for!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
For many, eating disorders and anxiety are two sides of the same coin. Control over food provides a brief sense of calm, while anxiety continues to fuel the disordered behavior.
-Carolyn Costin
Chapters
0:23 Introduction to Anxiety and Eating
3:08 The Role of Control in Anxiety
6:31 Understanding the Cycle of Anxiety and Eating Disorders
10:42 Breaking the Cycle of Disordered Eating
12:14 Strategies for Managing Stress and Eating
18:03 Mindful Eating Practices
19:09 Conclusion and Reflection
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve deeper into the intersection of worry and food in the second part of "When Worry Meets Food." Continuing from our previous discussion, I explore how anxiety and disordered eating are intertwined, affecting many individuals in profound ways. We previously discussed specific manifestations of anxiety that relate to food, including fears surrounding body image, social eating anxieties, and obsessive thoughts about diets. It's crucial to recognize that anxiety can act as a risk factor for developing eating disorders, and I invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences if they find anxiety frequently landing around food.
Throughout our conversation, I emphasize that individuals often channel their anxiety into eating behaviors to cope with intense emotions. The discussion highlights that whether someone restricts their food intake or engages in binge eating, both behaviors can serve a common purpose: to gain a sense of control in a chaotic emotional landscape. I draw attention to how individuals might use strict dietary rules as a temporary refuge from feelings of anxiety, reinforcing disordered patterns without realizing the long-term consequences.
I further explore themes of control and predictability, which anxiety-stricken individuals often crave. A rigid approach to eating can provide a false sense of security, albeit one that ultimately complicates their relationship with food and self-worth. Perfectionism is a recurring theme in our conversation as well, where I discuss how striving for an ideal body or diet amplifies feelings of inadequacy and intensifies the cycle of disordered eating behaviors.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses the important connection between anxiety and eating disorders. Eating disorders are a complex topic and are relevant to anyone with anxiety, as disordered eating can be seen largely as a maladaptive coping mechanism in response to anxiety. Listen in to learn more about how anxiety can manifest as disordered eating and how you can avoid this complex psychological syndrome.
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
The practice of eating is an emotional act, tied not only to our need for nourishment but also to our deepest fears, anxieties, and desires.
-Geneen Roth
Chapters
0:23 Introduction to Anxiety and Food
7:56 Understanding Anxiety Manifestations
9:19 Exploring Eating Disorders
16:15 Anxiety and Eating Disorders Connection
20:09 Conclusion and Next Steps
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the intricate relationship between anxiety and disordered eating. As your host, I share my insights from over a decade of experience working as an eating disorder nutrition educator. Together, we explore how anxiety often serves as the underlying issue for many who struggle with food-related challenges. It's important to note that while I discuss eating disorders, I'm not here to diagnose anyone; instead, my goal is to illuminate behaviors associated with these disorders to facilitate understanding and personal growth.
As we begin, I reflect on my professional journey, which has been profoundly shaped by my clients' struggles with anxiety. Despite not having personal experience with eating disorders, I found a common thread among those I worked with: anxiety was a pervasive influence in their lives. This realization prompted me to shift my focus towards understanding anxiety itself, a personal challenge of mine. Our conversation reveals that while not everyone with anxiety develops an eating disorder, most individuals grappling with eating disorders experience some form of anxiety. This insight fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of these challenges.
I then outline the diverse manifestations of anxiety, emphasizing that its impacts extend beyond disordered eating. We discuss a range of conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and more. By categorizing these manifestations, I aim to highlight the various ways anxiety can infiltrate daily life, potentially resonating with listeners who may not struggle with eating but grapple with anxiety in other forms.
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Sharing an episode of Need a Lift? a show that focuses on bringing people together during a tough time in our culture.
Host Tim Shriver talks to wise guests who have transformed painful moments in their lives into purpose through their spiritual rituals and practices. Guests like bestselling novelist Min Jin Lee on why she creates complicated characters who hold the secret to our transformation, and Olympic athlete Michael Phelps and his wife Nicole discussing the importance of cultivating an inner life in competition, mental health and in their marriage.
Need a Lift? is truly the antidote to the hatred and despair we’re all exhausted of hearing, giving us hope that change is possible.
In this episode, The Office’s Rainn Wilson explains that we can quiet the world's chaos and deal with our collective sense of overwhelm by believing in something bigger than us.
Find more episodes of Need a Lift? at https://link.chtbl.com/needalift?sid=anxietycoaches
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In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener question about anxiety that seems to be brought about by feelings of comfort, relaxation and happiness. This is a common occurrence for people who struggle with anxiety and have been on the recovery path for some time. It really can be confusing and seem to not make any sense at all. This episode clarifies what is going on when anxiety strikes during the strangest of times: when you are happy and nothing bad is happening. Listen in for advice on how to handle these occurrences!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.
-Wayne W. Dyer
Chapters
0:23 Understanding Happiness and Anxiety
12:42 Anticipatory Anxiety and Its Impact
18:23 Strategies for Managing Anxiety
Summary
In this episode, I delve into the perplexing phenomenon of happiness triggering anxiety. Drawing from the experiences of listeners, I explore how it is not uncommon for individuals to experience panic or anxiety in moments that should be joyful, like vacations or celebrations. A poignant question from a listener highlights this issue, where she describes feeling anxious during a birthday dinner at Disney World despite the happiness surrounding her. This sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the underlying mechanisms at play in these paradoxical situations.
When distress arises as one begins to relax or feel joy, it may seem counterintuitive, but I explain how our nervous system becomes accustomed to a persistent state of anxiety. For individuals who have experienced prolonged stress, the familiar state of elevated alertness becomes a comfortable baseline, a misguided notion of safety. As relaxation sets in, it can feel alien and even threatening, triggering a protective response. This leads to spikes in anxiety that may leave individuals questioning their progress in managing their emotional well-being.
Throughout the discussion, I outline various factors contributing to this phenomenon. Many people who have relied on anxiety as a defense mechanism can feel vulnerable when expressing joy and relaxation, leading to an instinctive retreat into anxiety as a self-protective measure. Additionally, the fear that positive experiences will invariably be followed by negative outcomes can create a mental loop where one sabotages their own happiness in anticipation of disappointment. This anticipatory anxiety often manifests as an internal conflict between the desire to celebrate and the fear of potential anxiety spikes.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses the benefits of music for those struggling with anxiety. Music can have a substantial impact on our mood, can reduce stress and increase relaxation. Listen in to learn more about the benefits of music for your general wellbeing and how to best use music to your advantage in overcoming anxiety!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Music can lift us out of depression or move us to tears - it is a remedy, a tonic, orange juice for the ear.
-Oliver Sacks
Chapters
0:23 Welcome to Music and Anxiety
3:22 Psychological Effects of Music
6:39 Music for Stress Reduction
10:10 Incorporating Music into Self-Care
15:19 Music and Coping Strategies
19:10 Creating a Personalized Approach
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the profound impact that music can have on our emotional and psychological well-being. Titled "Harmony for the Soul: How Music Heals and Calms Anxiety," this discussion is inspired by my own experiences with music and its transformative effects. I invite listeners to explore how music can serve as a powerful tool in managing anxiety and stress, and I emphasize the importance of finding the right music that resonates personally.
Starting with a quote from Bono, I highlight music's ability to change lives on a personal level, reflecting on how certain melodies can evoke feelings of calmness and security. I recount my childhood memories of my father playing Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, a piece that particularly moved me and has been shown to have physiological benefits such as decreased heart rates and improved oxygen saturation. This personal connection leads to a broader exploration of how music can be seen as medicine, a source of healing that many may overlook.
I dive deeper into the psychological effects of music by discussing its role in mood regulation and enhancement. Music is a versatile emotional tool that can uplift us from sadness or provide solace during anxiety-ridden moments. The concept of emotional contagion is introduced, explaining how our emotions can be influenced by the music we choose to engage with. I also introduce the ESO principle from music therapy which involves matching music to the listener's current emotional state, gradually adjusting it to influence change, underscoring the idea that music can lead us precisely where we need to go.
The episode further explores the physiological benefits of music, such as its capacity to lower cortisol levels, reduce heart rate, and induce relaxation. I discuss how slow, calming music can alleviate muscle tension and act as a distraction from stress, promoting mindfulness and enhancing present-moment awareness. Several methods for incorporating music into relaxation routines are provided, such as creating calming playlists for bedtime or using nature sounds as an auditory backdrop for meditation.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses the role of False Evidence Appearing Real for anxiety sufferers. Guidance is offered for facing and accepting the fear and how to navigate the murky waters of the fear of the fear. Understanding the fear itself does us no harm is one of the first steps to overcoming this fear.
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.
-Marie Curie
Chapters
0:00 Introduction to Fear
2:41 Understanding False Evidence
6:03 Facing the Fear
8:10 Befriending the Fear
9:25 The Fight, Flight, Freeze Response
10:47 The Path to Acceptance
Summary
In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the concept of fear and how it often manifests as false evidence appearing real (FEAR). As I explore this acronym, I aim to help listeners recognize that much of the fear we experience is rooted in our perceptions rather than actual threats. Together, we analyze how our minds can create a cycle of fear, where adrenaline leads to physical responses, which in turn validate our perceived dangers, keeping us trapped in a continuous loop.
I emphasize the importance of acknowledging the relationship between our minds and bodies, as they constantly influence each other. Understanding that our thoughts are not necessarily truths is crucial. Many of us allow fleeting thoughts to hold significant power over our emotions and actions, leading to unnecessary anxiety. By recognizing that fear is often an illusion, we can begin to dismantle the hold it has over us. It’s essential to understand that the real danger often lies not in the fear itself but in our fear of experiencing fear.
Drawing inspiration from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous quote, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself," I encourage listeners to reflect on how this idea manifests in their own lives. By confronting the notion that we might be afraid of our own feelings of fear, we can free ourselves from that cycle. This realization can serve as a significant turning point for many; once we recognize the self-imposed barriers created by our fear of fear, we can start to dismantle those walls.
I provide guidance on the approach we should take toward fear. Rather than fleeing, fighting, or freezing when faced with fearful thoughts or sensations, I advocate for embracing the fear. I suggest welcoming it and allowing it to exist without giving it undue attention or power. This practice is not about eliminating fear but rather about creating a friendly relationship with it, where we acknowledge fear as a part of our lives without letting it dictate our actions.
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In today's episode, Gina discusses techniques that will enable you to use easy to implement changes in your body (such as through exercise, breathing, eating, rest and sleep) to affect your mind and alleviate your anxiety symptoms. These techniques are easy to use and will offer you results! Listen in today!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
You do not have to be fearless just don't let fear stop you.
-Charlie Day
Chapters
0:00 Introduction to Anxiety and the Body
6:50 Strategies for Changing Your Biology
12:18 Nutrition and Sleep for Anxiety Management
Summary
In this episode, I address the profound connection between our bodies and anxiety, illustrating how bodily awareness can influence our mental state. While cognitive therapies often focus on reshaping our thoughts, I emphasize that altering our physical state can serve as a powerful precursor to managing and mitigating anxiety. Our biology plays a critical role in how we experience fear, and by attending to our bodies, we can pave the way for a clearer, more centered mind.
As I delve into this topic, I highlight how fear can manifest physically—heightening our heart rates, tightening our muscles, and impairing our cognitive functions. This physiological response can hinder our ability to apply the tools and techniques we've learned to combat negative thoughts. Therefore, we must first establish a state of bodily calmness to better access our mental resources when anxiety strikes. The key is to practice calming techniques ahead of time, so they become second nature when we need them most.
I walk you through several practical strategies to shift your biology toward a place of peace. One of the most effective ways is through exercise; moving our bodies releases endorphins and expels anxiety-inducing energy, allowing for improved clarity and serenity. Whether through a brisk walk, yoga, or hitting the gym, making a commitment to regular movement can significantly alter our physiological responses to stress.
Breathing techniques are another vital tool I share. By consciously changing our breathing patterns—such as taking slow, deep breaths or engaging in specific techniques like double inhalations followed by slow exhales—we can activate our parasympathetic nervous system, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. I underline the importance of not leading oneself into panic with forced breathing practices but rather approaching them gently.
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In today's episode, Gina provides a helpful guide for how to navigate social media and discussions with others, especially in regard to the topic of politics. Politics is a divisive topic, especially in our present day information environment. Use these techniques to become more resilient to the stress of navigating this difficult environment and eliminate the related anxiety and worry.
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
The opinion which other people have of you is their problem, not yours.
-Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Chapters
0:23 Welcome to Anxiety-Proof Politics
3:44 Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety
10:56 Coping Strategies for Healthy Engagement
15:48 Practicing Self-Compassion in Discussions
18:03 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Summary
In today's episode, I explore the pressing topic of "anxiety-proof politics" and the importance of building resilience in an era filled with charged political discussions. The anxieties we face in our current political landscape can stem from the overwhelming barrage of opinions we encounter daily, particularly through social media. As we scroll through our feeds or engage in conversations, the differing viewpoints can spark a visceral response, often feeling like a personal attack on our beliefs and values. This state of heightened anxiety arises from the intricate relationship between our identities and the political discussions we navigate.
What makes this exploration particularly vital is the profound impact that such discussions can have on our mental health, relationships, and personal growth. Many individuals find themselves struggling to process differing opinions, with the constant exposure to conflict and emotional investment leading to stress and even physical symptoms. As we dive deeper, I illuminate the significance of recognizing seven key triggers that contribute to anxiety in political dialogue: core values, emotional investment, fear of conflict, cognitive dissonance, social pressure, complexity, and personal experiences. Understanding these triggers lays the groundwork for managing the anxiety these conversations can induce.
The role of social media is a predominant theme in our discussion, as it has transformed our engagement with political content. The relentless flow of differing opinions often creates an echo chamber that heightens polarization, complicating our ability to engage meaningfully with those who hold differing views. I examine how the social dynamics online foster a constant state of anxiety, fueled by misinformation, performative activism, and the fear of missing out on critical discussions. This cultural shift necessitates a reevaluation of how we interact with political content and one another.
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In today's episode, Gina concludes her discussion of the differences between thoughts, emotions and feelings and how to use this knowledge to make progress clearing chronic anxiety. Five exercises are provided to help you explore what you are experiencing and how to change your thoughts to make better sense of it all and to find more peace and calm. Get your journals out and take notes, these exercises will take you a long way in your anxiety recovery journey!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
It is not the things themselves that disturb men, but their judgments about these things."
-Epictetus
Chapters
0:23 Introduction to Anxiety Trio
5:13 Awareness of Thoughts, Emotions, and Feelings
10:05 Reframing Negative Thoughts
14:06 Grounding with Physical Sensations
16:10 Practicing Self-Compassion
17:52 The Power of Journaling
Summary
In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into part two of "Untangling the Anxiety Trio," focusing on the distinct interplay between thoughts, emotions, and feelings. This follow-up aims to provide you with practical exercises that can help you effectively manage and understand your anxiety. If you missed part one, I highly recommend listening to it first, as it lays the foundation for the discussions today.
To start off, I introduce the concept of awareness. It's essential for anyone dealing with anxiety to develop a keen sense of awareness regarding their thoughts, emotions, and feelings. Often, we conflate these elements into a chaotic mix, dismissing their individual significance. I encourage you to pause during moments of anxiety, take a deep breath, and identify the specific thought that just crossed your mind. For instance, if the thought is "I'm not prepared for this meeting," you might notice physical sensations, such as tension in your chest, manifesting as you recognize your anxiety. Writing these observations down can help clarify and confront the anxiety head-on, making each element less overwhelming.
Next, we explore the exercise of reframing our thoughts. This involves replacing negative thoughts with more balanced, realistic alternatives. When a thought like “I’m going to fail” surfaces, ask yourself if it's entirely true. More often than not, it’s an exaggeration. By reframing it to something like “I’ve prepared for this, and I’ll do my best,” you create a shift in the emotional and physiological response. This process of reframing can serve as a valuable tool to interrupt the anxiety cycle before it spirals out of control.
Grounding exercises are another pivotal theme we cover. When anxiety intensifies, it can be beneficial to redirect your focus through physical sensations. I introduce the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, which encourages you to identify things you can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste, assisting you in reconnecting with the present moment. By engaging with your environment and senses, you provide your mind with a break from the relentless march of anxious thoughts, often resulting in a calming effect.
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In today's episode, Gina defines clearly and discusses the differences between thoughts, emotions and feelings, and how these psychological factors affect our anxiety. Through understanding these aspects of how our mind works, we become endowed with a great power to reduce our anxiety at will and direct our lives in direction of our choosing. Listen in and understand the differences between thoughts, emotions and feelings, and use this understanding to reduce and eliminate anxiety!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link
ACPGroupCoaching.com
To learn more, go to:
Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com
Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program
Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching
What is anxiety?
Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:
For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/
Here's what's included for $5/month:
❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday
❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes
❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind
❤ And more fun surprises along the way!
All this in your favorite podcast app!
Quote:
Feelings are much like waves. We can’t stop them from coming, but we can choose which one to surf.
–Jonatan Mårtensson
Chapters
0:23 Introduction to the Anxiety Trio
3:00 Understanding Emotions
4:48 Exploring Feelings
6:25 The Role of Thoughts
9:06 Breaking the Cycle
12:33 Body vs. Mind Strategies
15:28 Preparing for Practical Exercises
17:20 Conclusion and Next Steps
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the intricate relationship between thoughts, emotions, and feelings, an interconnection I refer to as the “Anxiety Trio.” This discussion lays the foundation for understanding how these components interact and influence our experiences with anxiety. Given the depth of the material, this episode serves as part one of a two-part series, setting the stage for a more comprehensive exploration of these concepts in the next installment.
To begin, I clarify what emotions are. Emotions are immediate physiological reactions—automatic responses to events or internal thoughts that manifest in our bodies. They come about spontaneously, often triggered by external stimuli or our own memories, and are typically intense but fleeting. For instance, a sudden fright, like being surprised, elicits an immediate emotional response that can cause physiological changes, such as increased heart rate or adrenaline spikes. In the context of anxiety, it serves as an instinctive warning system, alerting us to perceived threats, even if they are not real or present.
Next, I distinguish emotions from feelings. While emotions are raw and instinctual, feelings arise once we consciously recognize and interpret those emotions. This subjective experience is influenced by our individual thoughts, beliefs, and past experiences. For example, the emotion of fear can morph into feelings of unease or worry, depending on how we process and interpret that emotion. I emphasize that feelings are often longer-lasting and more complex than the initial emotional reaction and can perpetuate the cycle of anxiety, especially when intertwined with negative thinking patterns.
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In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener email with a new episode about anxiety in children. A number of suggestions are included for better understanding anxiety in children as well as steps that can be taken to reduce the anxiety and build strong, healthy psyches. Listen in for anxiety reducing tips that are easy to implement with children and are also highly applicable with adults!
Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!
https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/
Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.
FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind
10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety
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Quote:
Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.
-Jess Lair
Chapters
0:23 Introduction to Child Anxiety Support
2:56 Understanding Anxiety in Children
8:06 Building Confidence Through Small Wins
12:35 Creating Predictable Routines
13:07 Grounding Techniques for Kids
19:22 Conclusion and Reflection
Summary
In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the vital topic of supporting children through their experiences of anxiety and fear, a discussion prompted by a heartfelt email from a listener. She shared her struggles with her six-year-old son, who faces anxiety in everyday situations like checking the mail or showering alone. By addressing the complexities of childhood anxiety, I aim to provide practical insights and strategies for parents and caregivers looking to nurture resilience and bravery in their children.
Understanding that anxiety is a normal emotion for everyone, especially young children, is fundamental in initiating this journey of support. I emphasize the importance of normalizing these feelings and recognizing that childhood anxiety often presents itself through fears of separation or abandonment. This acknowledgment is essential in reframing anxiety from a taboo topic to a shared human experience, which facilitates open discussions with children about their emotions.
Following this, I guide listeners through identifying potential triggers for anxiety, using our listener's situation as a concrete example. Exploring these triggers helps distinguish the underlying emotional patterns children may feel, enabling parents to offer reassurance that they are not alone in their fears. Gradual, supportive approaches, akin to what I refer to as "building brave," provide a framework for increasing a child's confidence and comfort over time, rather than forcing them into situations they are unprepared to handle.
I discuss actionable strategies for promoting self-assurance and independence in anxious children. By celebrating small wins—like showering with the door ajar—parents can reinforce the child's sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence. Additionally, encouraging decision-making in everyday scenarios allows children to experience the power of their choices, further cultivating their self-esteem.
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