The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

In today's episode, Gina discusses the value of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and acupuncture for treating chronic anxiety. Many people in the West may not be familiar with how TCM and acupuncture works. This episode clarifies the approach to treating illness and maintaining wellness that TCM practitioners use in their practices. Listen in and discover a whole new set of treatment options that may be available for helping you to overcome chronic anxiety-panic! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: The natural healing force within each of us is the greatest force in getting well. -Hippocrates Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to Ancient Wisdom for Modern Anxiety 0:02:13 Holistic Approach of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine 0:14:53 Promoting Relaxation and Energy Flow 0:16:18 Tailoring a Treatment Plan and Communication with Healthcare Provider Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we explore the ancient wisdom of acupuncture and Chinese medicine as a modern approach to managing anxiety. We begin by acknowledging the healing power that resides within each of us, as emphasized by Hippocrates. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine take a holistic approach to anxiety, seeking to restore balance and harmony throughout the body. While everyone's experiences may differ, I, Gina Ryan, personally share my positive experiences with acupuncture for smoke-induced asthma. I delve into the ways in which acupuncture and Chinese medicine can effectively address anxiety. Through stimulating the flow of energy within the body, acupuncture promotes relaxation of both the mind and body. This, in turn, reduces stress hormones, improves the quality of sleep, and shifts the body from the fight or flight response to a restful and digestive state. Acupuncture also encourages mindfulness and fosters mind-body connection, aiding in pain reduction and promoting overall well-being. The treatments themselves are personalized, tailored to each individual's specific patterns of disharmony. By targeting the factors contributing to stress and anxiety, these treatments promote relaxation and balance. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the body's vital energy, known as Qi, flows through pathways called meridians. Blockages or imbalances in this flow can lead to physical or emotional health issues. Acupuncture stimulates specific points along these meridians, regulating and facilitating the flow of Qi while removing blockages. By doing so, balance is restored, as traditional Chinese medicine places great emphasis on maintaining equilibrium within the body. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener email commenting on his own struggle with anxiety-inducing thoughts. The listener suggests the common thread running through the most distressing thoughts he has is that they involve future (often catastrophic) events that have not yet come to pass. Listen in to see how to best respond to such thinking and learn to overcome a major anxiety creating pattern: intrusive thinking about events that have not yet (and may never) come to pass. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Your mind is your instrument. Learn to be its master, not its slave. -Remez Sasson Chapters 0:00:24 Going from random to recognizable with anxious thoughts 0:01:09 Realization: Anxieties revolve around future events and scenarios 0:03:19 Using mindfulness to bring the mind back to reality 0:13:24 Responding to anxieties with a beneficial mindset 0:14:39 Resting in the idea of handling it when it comes 0:16:31 Realizing the power to come back to the present moment Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the idea of going from random to recognizable with our anxious thoughts. We explore the roots of anxiety and how they manifest in our minds. One listener shared a comment that resonated with several others - that many of their anxieties had a common thread: they were all centered around future events and scenarios. This realization was a breakthrough for the listener, as they found it helpful to remind themselves that they will handle these situations when they actually occur, instead of trying to control them in the present. As the host, I emphasize the importance of being the master of our minds rather than being enslaved by our anxious thoughts. I quote Ramez Sasson, who said, "You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." So often, individuals with anxiety search for patterns in their anxieties, trying to make sense of their constant worries. I ask listeners if they have noticed any patterns in their own anxious thoughts. We acknowledge that the anxieties surrounding future events are common and often based on hypothetical scenarios. Our imagination can take us to dark places, but it's essential not to let these thoughts dictate our present experience or become slaves to our minds. Instead, we should use our minds as instruments and discern which thoughts require attention and which can be put aside for the time being. Moving forward, we shift our discussion towards the common anxieties people have about future flights and how to handle them. We explore the fact that many of these fears are anticipatory, and our imagination can run wild with negative possibilities. However, it's crucial to remember that these anxieties are not happening in the present moment. Spending too much time in future anxious thinking can exhaust our bodies and keep us stuck in a fight or flight reaction pattern. The key to breaking free from this pattern is practicing mindfulness and bringing our minds back to the present moment when we catch ourselves falling down the wormhole of anxious thoughts. By regularly engaging in meditation and being mindful, we build the strength to redirect our thoughts to reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the differences between key terms describing people with varying degrees of anxiety: Introversion, Shyness and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). There is generally a spectrum of intensity of anxiety relating to social interactions with other people and these terms are used to describe various areas of this intensity. Listen in to better understand if any of these terms describe yourself and what they really mean. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Understanding the intricate threads of introversion, shyness, and social anxiety disorder is a journey toward self-awareness, acceptance, and growth. -Unknown Chapters 0:00:24 Exploring the Distinctions: Introversion, Shyness, and Social Anxiety Disorder 0:03:27 Understanding Introversion: Embracing Inner Experiences 0:06:17 The Dance of Discomfort: Exploring Shyness 0:07:24 Social Anxiety Disorder: Beyond Shyness 0:14:54 The Spectrum of Social Anxiety 0:16:13 Managing Anxiety through Avoidance 0:17:41 Embracing Self-Awareness and Growth Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the distinctions between introversion, shyness, and social anxiety disorder. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent unique aspects of who we are. Introversion is a fundamental personality trait that is characterized by a preference for inner thoughts and emotions over constant external stimulation. As introverts, we tend to recharge our energy through solitude and introspection, and we value deep connections over superficial engagements. On the other hand, shyness is more about the emotional response to social situations, particularly in unfamiliar settings. When we are shy, we may experience fear or discomfort when interacting with others, but over time and with familiar faces, our shyness can diminish. Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, goes beyond shyness and is considered a mental health condition. It involves an overwhelming fear of negative social judgment or humiliation. Those of us with social anxiety disorder may consistently experience distress in social situations and may even avoid them altogether in order to manage the intense anxiety and fear associated with them. It's crucial for us to recognize the differences between these terms and understand where we stand on the spectrum. By reflecting on our own experiences, we can gain insight into whether introversion, shyness, or social anxiety disorder is impacting our well-being. Seeking help from therapists, coaches, or mental health experts can provide guidance and support if needed. Regardless of where we fall on the spectrum of introversion, shyness, or social anxiety disorder, our experiences are valid. Embracing self-awareness and taking steps to seek support if necessary can empower us to navigate the path forward with confidence and clarity. In this episode, we provide a quick checklist to help our listeners identify whether they are more inclined towards introversion, shyness, or social anxiety disorder. It's important to note that these labels are not meant to diagnose, but rather to guide self-reflection and understanding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the importance of exercise in the anxiety recovery journey. Exercise can be a complex topic for anxiety sufferers as it can very often trigger anxiety! The key to overcoming exercise induced anxiety lies in taking small, gradual steps towards greater exercise achievement. Listen in for helpful advice on how to integrate more exercise into your life and improve your anxiety recovery 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Strength does not come from the physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will. -Mahatma Gandhi Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to harnessing exercise to tame anxiety 0:02:25 Understanding the fight or flight response during exercise 0:03:15 Gradual transformation: Overcoming exercise-induced anxiety 0:04:23 Changing the crossed wires: Rewiring the brain and body 0:06:13 Exploring different exercise options to ease anxiety 0:07:52 The connection between lactic acid and anxiety 0:10:01 The transformative potential of gentle exercise 0:13:03 Establishing a Routine for Exercise 0:14:14 Using Exercise to Burn off Stress Hormones 0:15:26 Reminders for a Balanced Approach to Exercise Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the intricate relationship between anxiety and exercise. When we exercise, our bodies undergo various physiological responses, such as an increased heart rate and heightened alertness, which can sometimes trigger anxiety. However, it's important to recognize that these sensations are a natural part of our body's fight or flight response and should not be feared. It's not uncommon for some individuals to associate exercise with anxiety due to crossed wires in their brains. However, it's reassuring to know that many people experience these sensations, and they are not alone in their struggles. Overcoming exercise-induced anxiety takes time, and it's okay if our exercise routines need to evolve and adapt. The key to overcoming exercise-induced anxiety lies in taking gradual steps, practicing patience, and showing ourselves self-compassion. We need to understand that exercise is a powerful tool for managing anxiety, and it benefits everyone, regardless of their mental health status. It helps reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and oxytocin, elevating our mood. The intensity of the exercise doesn't always matter; even gentle activities like walking, yoga, or doing household chores can have immense benefits for our mental well-being. Consistency is crucial, aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three to five times a week. However, it's essential to start slow and not push ourselves too hard. It's okay to acknowledge and understand the anxiety that may arise during exercise and give ourselves permission to take breaks or adjust the pace. Embarking on a routine of walking outdoors in the fresh air can be immensely helpful in reducing anxiety. It's important to find enjoyable activities that transport our minds somewhere else. Remember, this journey is not a quick fix but a continuous process of personal growth. Being kind to ourselves and not pushing too hard are essential components of this transformative journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the journey of anxiety recovery from a different perspective: one that is open to the possibility that our trouble with chronic anxiety and panic may actually serve us as a profound instrument of growth and teaching. Getting back to our old self, or who we used to be before we encountered chronic anxiety-panic may not be what we truly want as our healing goal. It is important to remember that the old self indeed led us to our chronic anxiety-panic state. Listen in for an optimistic appraisal of the healing journey you are finding yourself on and rejoice in the greater, fuller self you are setting out to develop with new tools and resources of coping and healing. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but about learning how to dance in the rain. -Vivian Greene Chapters 0:00:24 Embracing the Journey to a Brighter Self 0:02:12 Transforming Our Relationship with Anxiety 0:06:23 Nurturing Growth and Embracing Acceptance 0:12:43 Embracing Anxiety for Personal Growth 0:13:25 Mindfulness Practices for Handling Anxiety and Life Better 0:14:16 Starting a Meditation Practice and Taking Small Steps Summary Welcome to another episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, where we dive deep into the topic of growing out of anxiety and embracing the journey towards personal growth. Today, we want to highlight that anxiety is not something that defines us, but rather an experience that can lead to transformative self-discovery. When we talk about anxiety, we're referring to anxiety, panic, chronic stress, and fear, not just the fleeting human emotion of fear. It's essential for our listeners to understand that anxiety doesn't have to be a permanent state of being. Instead, it can serve as a catalyst for change and growth. The first step towards transforming our relationship with anxiety is to adopt a mindset of growth, hope, and renewal. We must recognize that anxiety, like a passing storm, will eventually clear. By nurturing acceptance and mindfulness, we can navigate tough times and develop effective coping mechanisms. Surrendering to the present moment and embracing acceptance, rather than resisting and longing for the past, is key. Making simple lifestyle adjustments, such as improving our nutrition, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and incorporating regular exercise, can greatly impact our relationship with anxiety. It's important to acknowledge that anxiety can actually be a lifelong teacher, providing us with invaluable coping skills. Every step we take in our recovery journey is an opportunity to learn, evolve, and ultimately thrive. Embracing our passions and engaging in activities we love, despite anxiety, can help us cultivate positivity and recognize the positive transformations that can emerge from the experience. In summary, anxiety does not define us. By embracing the journey, developing coping skills, and making lifestyle adjustments, we can grow out of anxiety and embrace a brighter, better version of ourselves. Together, let's learn to dance in the rain and share our newfound peace and calm with others who may need it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares a guided meditation with listeners that focuses on using the breath as an anchor. The meditation unfolds over time with guidance to return awareness to the breath, thereby maintaining mindfulness throughout. Improve your peace of mind and meditation skill with this simple guided meditation. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: We can endure almost anything if we are centered if we have some focus in our life.You can endure if you have an anchor. -Renita J. Weems Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to the concept of a meditation anchor 0:01:20 Purpose and benefits of using an anchor in meditation 0:02:07 Different types of anchors, focusing on the breath 0:03:10 Other potential anchors: body sensations, sounds, visuals, mantras, etc. 0:04:13 Importance of using a meditation anchor and its benefits 0:05:05 Introduction to Breathing Anchor Practice of Mindfulness 0:06:06 Settling into a Comfortable Position for Meditation 0:07:03 Focus on the Physical Sensations of Breathing 0:08:51 The Goal of Mindfulness: Observing the Present Moment 0:09:45 Stepping Back and Observing Yourself 0:10:03 Embracing Inner Experience: Finding Balance 0:10:28 Tuning into our Inner Experience 0:11:18 Gaining insight through detachment from thoughts and feelings 0:12:16 Observing the shifting nature of thoughts and ideas 0:12:53 Focusing on the Sensations and Movements of the Breath 0:13:32 The Power of Anchoring in the Present Moment 0:14:19 Using the Breath as Your Anchor 0:15:19 Succeeding in the practice of remaining with the breath 0:15:47 Finding Focus Through Breath Awareness 0:16:53 Gratitude for the Practice 0:17:01 Finding Strength in Centeredness and Focus Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we explore the concept of using a breathing anchor during meditation to calm an anxious mind. A meditation anchor serves as a focal point that helps to maintain presence and prevent the mind from wandering. One of the most accessible and commonly used anchors is the breath. By directing our attention to the physical sensations associated with breathing, we can ground ourselves in the present moment. To begin, find a comfortable position and maybe close your eyes. Focus on the natural movement of your breath and take notice of where you feel it the most in your body. Engage in non-judgmental curiosity and let your focus settle on the breath without forcing or changing it. As you continue, remain aware of any thoughts that arise, but avoid reacting or becoming overwhelmed by them. Remember that thoughts are not hard evidence – they simply exist, and we have the power to choose how we respond to them. With consistent practice, the ability to detach from thoughts and feelings can be developed. By observing these mental phenomena without giving them too much meaning or influence, we can gradually shift our perspective and regain a sense of control. This detachment allows us to gain insight from our thoughts and feelings without being consumed by them. We recognize that our minds and hearts are not rigid, but instead are capable of change. By directing our attention back to the breath, which serves as our anchor, we remain rooted in the present moment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the medical and psychological definitions of anxiety as found in the DSM. While healing from anxiety does not require these special categorizations mainstream healthcare attaches to it, it can be useful to understand how the medical industry approaches anxiety assessment. Learn about mainstream definitions of anxiety and how this knowledge may help you on your anxiety healing 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn't do. -Henry Ford Chapters 0:00:24 Welcome back to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast. 0:01:29 Understanding the Different Presentations of Anxiety 0:03:51 The Evolution of Anxiety Disorders in Diagnostic Manuals 0:05:12 The Importance of Calming the Nervous System 0:06:40 Exploring the Six Common Anxiety Disorders and Their Meanings 0:08:39 Compassionate Exposure for Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia 0:09:52 Overcoming Social Anxiety Disorder with Compassion 0:11:00 Navigating Specific Phobias with Compassionate Exposure 0:11:58 Wrestling with Intrusive Thoughts in OCD Treatment 0:13:26 Understanding General Anxiety Disorder 0:14:59 Managing Generalized Anxiety Disorder through mindfulness and cognitive restructuring Summary In this part of the podcast/show, I discuss the different expressions of anxiety and the labels used to describe them. I explain that anxiety was not considered a medical condition until 1980 when it was included in the DSM-3. However, I emphasize that just because new disorders are added to the DSM doesn't mean they are new experiences for people. I share my own experience with anxiety in the 1970s when there was limited information and understanding of the condition. I believe that understanding the different diagnoses and terms associated with anxiety can be helpful, but the most important thing is to focus on calming the nervous system. I mention that a forward-thinking psychiatrist suggested that people should be free of caffeine before being prescribed psychiatric medications. Next, I discuss the six topics often mentioned in psychology and doctor's offices, starting with panic disorder and agoraphobia. Panic disorder involves fearing the panic itself, and agoraphobia is the fear of the debilitating effects of panic attacks. I stress the importance of compassionately exposing oneself to confront these fears and regain a sense of control. Moving on, the second topic is social anxiety disorder, which involves the fear of embarrassment in social situations. I explain that avoidance exacerbates the fear and isolation, but gradually exposing oneself to social situations can help overcome it. In this part of the podcast, we delve into specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Specific phobias involve excessive fear of ordinary things, and avoidance only perpetuates the fear. The key to overcoming specific phobias is gradual exposure to the feared object or situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses how to better handle the anxiety of other who we interact with during our day. From children in our care to supervisors at work, knowing how to handle the anxiety and upset of others can help us to avoid our own catastrophic anxiety-panic reactions. Listen in for advice on how to best approach others who may be struggling with their own anxiety and remain calm yourself. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. – Wayne Dyer Chapters 0:00:24 Finding Peace and Calm: Exploring Compassion and Action 0:00:54 Dealing with Other People's Anxiety: Introduction 0:02:24 Checklist for Navigating Anxiety in Relationships 0:10:42 Handling Boss's Anxiety: Professionalism and Self-Care 0:13:52 Maintaining Professionalism and Setting Boundaries 0:15:16 Suggesting Solutions and Redirecting the Focus 0:16:11 Leading by Example and Seeking Guidance for Wellbeing 0:18:16 Seeking Support and Professional Help for Work Stress 0:19:36 Practicing New Responses for Improved Mental Well-being Summary In this episode, we delve into the topic of managing anxiety, both our own and others'. I share my personal experience with anxiety and provide 13 helpful tips for navigating through it. Here are some key points we discuss: 1. Staying calm and understanding that other people's anxiety is not a reflection of us. 2. Empathizing with others and acknowledging their feelings without judgment. 3. Practicing active listening by fully focusing on what the other person is saying. 4. Validating their feelings and letting them know that we understand why they might feel that way. 5. Offering support by asking how we can be of help. 6. Utilizing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and grounding to manage anxiety in the moment. 7. Maintaining boundaries and encouraging others to seek additional help if necessary. 8. Redirecting negative thoughts and steering conversations towards positive or neutral topics. 9. Limiting exposure if someone's anxiety begins to make us uncomfortable. 10. Practicing self-care by participating in activities that help us relax and recharge. 11. Reflecting on why someone's anxiety affects us strongly and exploring ways to manage our own triggers. 12. Seeking support from friends, family, or professionals when needed. By implementing these tips, we can effectively manage our own anxiety and provide support to others who may be experiencing it. In the next segment of the podcast, we delve into navigating situations where someone in a position of power, like a boss or supervisor, is dealing with anxiety. The first tip is to maintain our own sense of calm in these scenarios. We should empathize with their work-related pressures and personal factors that may trigger their anxiety. Active listening is essential, allowing them to express their concerns while we attentively listen and respond in a measured manner. While offering support is encouraged, it's crucial to maintain professionalism and avoid getting too involved in their personal matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the spectrum of thoughts from anxious negative thinking, to positive thinking. Between negative and positive thinking lies neutral, mindful thinking. The importance of neutral and positive thinking are discussed as are strategies for encouraging this more benevolent areas of the spectrum of thoughts. Listen in and begin to steer your thoughts towards neutral for more peace and wellness! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Chapters 0:00:24 Exploring the Spectrum of Thoughts 0:02:07 Escaping the Wormhole of Negative Thinking 0:04:54 Finding Balance in Neutral Mindfulness 0:09:36 Moving from Negative to Neutral and Positive States 0:11:05 The Power of Acceptance and Neutral Thinking 0:13:07 Embracing a Sunny Disposition and Positive Outlook Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we explore the spectrum of thoughts. On one end, there is anxious, negative thinking. In the middle, there is mindful, neutral thinking. And on the other end, there is positive thinking. While mindfulness and positive thinking are different, the goal is to land in the middle with neutral thoughts. Anxious, negative thinking leads to negative beliefs and a hot brain filled with rumination and worry. It also leads to negative behaviors and self-medication for anxiety relief. On the other hand, neutral thinking brings us into a state of balance and calmness. We observe the facts and collect the data, leading to more realistic and neutral-positive feelings. Neutral thinking is confirmed with positive outcomes and allows us to see the beauty and color in our lives. In this part of the podcast, I talk about the importance of spending more time in neutral and positive states. I explain that while we can't avoid negative states completely, we can make an effort to shift our mindset towards the positive. I give examples of how our thoughts and interpretations can impact our emotions, behaviors, and overall outcomes. I emphasize the benefits of staying centered, open, and receptive to the world around us. I discuss the different brain states of resistance, acceptance, and hope, and how they affect our experiences. I encourage listeners to strive for realistic acceptance as their default state, while also allowing for days of positivity and hope. I share my own experience of transitioning from an anxious and negative mindset to one of neutrality and mindfulness. I caution against dwelling in negativity and urge listeners to stay mindful and steer themselves towards a more positive outlook. I offer the reminder to keep listening to the podcast for more strategies and inspiration. The episode ends with a quote from John Kabat-Zinn about letting things be instead of trying to forcefully let go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses how we can use deliberate interpretation to steer our response to various life events and stimuli in the environment in a way that benefits us psychologically. If we don't take active measures to proactively interpret the various factors in our environment, we will continue to succumb to our fear based anxiety response. Listen in for strategies to interpret things in ways that will make you feel better! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: You don't have to control your thoughts; you just have to stop letting them control you. -Dan Millman Chapters 0:00:24 Exploring the Role of Interpretation in Stress and Anxiety 0:01:12 Understanding the Pathway of Emotions 0:01:19 Understanding the Pathway of Emotions 0:04:30 Taking the Reins: Making Conscious Choices 0:08:12 Interpretation: Where We Have Control over Our Emotions 0:14:21 The Power of Thoughts and Body Chemistry 0:15:02 The Fear-Adrenaline-Fear Loop and Impulsive Behavior 0:17:12 Mastering the Art of Mind Control Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the impact of interpretation on stress and anxiety. We begin by discussing a powerful quote from Dan Millman that reminds us not to let our thoughts control us. Many people are unaware of the consistent pathway that emotions follow, with our subconscious mind often seemingly bringing emotions out of the blue. However, once these emotions enter our consciousness, we have the power to take control. We reference Michelle Rosenthal's book, "Heal Your PTSD," which outlines the evolution of emotion and the pathway they follow: stimulus, interpretation, thought, physiological response, feeling, impulse to act, and psychological response. It becomes evident that the point of control lies at the interpretation stage, where we have the opportunity to assess the meaning of the stimulus in a way that serves us. By intercepting negative interpretations and engaging our minds at an early stage, we can effectively manage our emotions. To drive this point home, we encourage listeners to focus on identifying their interpretations and reflect upon past situations to gain a better understanding of their emotional responses. We highlight the transformative potential of changing our interpretation of events, emphasizing that it can have a significant impact on our mindset and how we navigate our daily lives. We offer practical strategies for shifting our interpretations. By asking ourselves questions like "What interpretation would make me feel better?" or "How could I have looked at this differently?", we can learn to shift our focus and create the scenarios we desire. Cultivating a sense of self-care and inner strength becomes easier and stronger with practice. It allows us to tap into our empowerment when challenges arise, enabling us to catch and shift our interpretations of situations and diffuse feelings of powerlessness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina reveals key principles to help reduce cyclical anxiety driven thinking through clearing out old, stuck energy in the body. The mind and body are highly related to each other and we can improve the functioning of one through gentle manipulation of the other. Through breathing, exercise and other techniques, we can help clear out energy in our bodies and thereby clear out distracting and distressing thoughts in our minds. Listen in and learn about this key principle 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. it is the one that is the most adaptable to change. -Charles Darwin Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and gratitude for concerns about well-being 0:01:33 Reminding yourself to handle things if and when they happen 0:05:36 Inactivity adds stuck energy into the body 0:08:21 Letting go of the outcome and interrupting the anxiety cycle 0:09:26 The body holding stuck energy for years, decades 0:10:36 Using the body to interrupt the anxiety cycle 0:12:26 Clearing the built-up energy in the body 0:12:45 Inactivity and the Body's Storage of Energy 0:14:07 Using Movement and Stretching to Clear Energy Blockages 0:15:32 Tapping the Body to Move Stagnant Energy Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, Gina Ryan discusses the ways to reduce anxious mind chatter by clearing stuck energy in the body. She begins by expressing gratitude for the concern shown by listeners regarding the fires in Maui and Big Island, assuring everyone that she is safe and sending thoughts and prayers to those affected. Gina emphasizes the importance of reminding ourselves that we can handle whatever comes our way and not borrowing suffering from the future by worrying about things that may never happen. She highlights the fact that most of what we worry about never materializes, and unexpected events occur instead. Therefore, it's crucial to focus on what we can control and let go of the outcome. Excessive mind chatter drains our energy, both in the subconscious and when we consciously feed it with present moment thoughts. This mental chatter builds up in the body, especially during long periods of inactivity, and adds another layer to our fears and anxieties, resulting in physical discomfort. To break this cycle, Gina suggests changing our thoughts and interrupting the fear-adrenaline-fear cycle through the body. Unlike mental practices, the body responds immediately in the moment. By consciously shifting different parts of our bodies, we can send positive affirmations to the brain and signal to the amygdala that all is well, reducing its hyperactivity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the importance of living an authentic life and how increasing our personal authenticity can lead to deeper fulfillment in our lives. Strategies for increasing our authenticity are shared, including reevaluating relationships and identifying other aspects of our lives that have a detrimental impact on our sense of happiness. Authentic living can improve our lives in many ways and may increase our sense of joy, peace and lead to new relationships and experiences. Listen in to find out how to live more authentically 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: We are constantly invited to be who we are. -Henry David Thoreau Chapters 0:00:24 Frustration and fear to fulfillment: an authentic life approach. 0:01:09 The importance of facing nagging questions head-on. 0:03:59 Living an authentic life: harmony in thoughts, words, and actions. 0:12:09 The Weight of Unwanted Thoughts 0:13:06 Living Authentically: Revisiting Happiness and Letting Go 0:14:57 Freedom and New Beginnings in Authentic Living Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I discuss the journey from frustration and fear to fulfillment in our lives. It's important to pay attention to the nagging questions or irritations that persistently arise, as they may indicate areas of our lives that need to be addressed. I encourage listeners to listen to their intuition and make changes before they are forced to confront major challenges. I introduce the concept of authentic living, where our thoughts, words, and actions are in harmony. This leads to a peaceful and happy life. To live authentically, we must let go of things that no longer serve us. This could include relationships, activities, places, habits, thoughts, and expectations that have expired in their usefulness. It's crucial to reflect on these aspects and make conscious choices to align our lives with our authentic selves. We delve into the idea of letting go and identify areas in our lives that may no longer bring us happiness. This involves evaluating relationships with people and considering whether they still contribute positively to our lives. We also examine our attachment to certain places, activities, and thoughts that may no longer serve us. By letting go of these burdens, we can live more authentically and experience joy and fulfillment. Authentic living paves the way for new opportunities, friendships, and adventures. It replaces frustration and doubt with optimism and enthusiasm. You might even notice a change in yourself – perhaps you're looking more radiant or feeling more alive. That's because you truly are different when you live authentically. The decision to let go of things that no longer serve us may seem challenging, but we simply need to take the time to reflect on our actions and become aware of where we need to make changes. If we don't search for these areas, we'll never see them. So why not give it a try? Grab a journal or an audio recorder and start speaking your truth. Discuss it with a therapist or a friend to begin cultivating a more authentic life. As Henry David Thoreau said, we are constantly invited to be who we truly are. Stay tuned for the next episode of the podcast in a few days. Take care and aloha! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina continues her discussion of thought traps and their role in anxiety. The discussion focuses on specific thought traps and their individual caveats. How these thought traps adversely affect us and how to avoid them are included. Listen in and use the knowledge of thought traps to improve your thinking skills and minimize the role thoughts play in your 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them. –Albert Einstein Chapters 0:00:24 Recognizing Thinking Traps for Managing Anxiety 0:01:27 Importance of Being Aware of Thinking Traps 0:03:08 The Impact of Thinking Traps on Perception and Decision-making 0:13:15 Personalization and Catastrophizing: Exaggerating Negative Consequences 0:14:09 Blaming and Control Fallacies: Recognizing Our Role and Influence 0:15:28 Fallacy of Change and Fairness: Accepting Reality and Challenging Thoughts Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the topic of recognizing thinking traps as a crucial aspect of managing anxiety. By becoming aware of these traps, we gain the power to identify them when they arise and take necessary steps to break free from their grip. Thinking traps, also known as cognitive distortions, have the potential to foster negative emotions, heightened stress levels, and unproductive behaviors. Addressing these traps not only improves our decision-making skills, but also nurtures our emotional well-being and cultivates a sense of serenity in our lives. During the discussion, we explore several common thinking traps, including black and white thinking, overgeneralization, mental filtering, and discounting the positive. It is important to emphasize that experiencing these traps is normal, but recognizing them prevents us from getting entangled in detrimental thought patterns. By acknowledging the subtle nuances between black and white, and celebrating the positive moments in life, we can liberate ourselves from the clutches of thinking traps and lead a more balanced existence. At another point in the conversation, we dive deep into different types of cognitive distortions and thought traps that contribute to anxiety. Such traps encompass jumping to conclusions, mind reading, fortune telling, emotional reasoning, should statements, labeling, personalization, catastrophizing, blaming, control fallacies, the fallacy of change, and the fallacy of fairness. I urge listeners to develop awareness around these thought traps and actively challenge them by seeking objective evidence, recognizing personal roles and broader contexts, and acknowledging the unavoidable reality that life is not always fair. Take note of any thinking traps that may arise within yourself and understand their significance. Recognizing these traps is essential as they hold great influence over our thought patterns. By acknowledging their existence, cultivating awareness, and questioning their validity, we can attain a more balanced and rational mindset in our daily lives. This mindset fosters emotional well-being, enhances decision-making abilities, and promotes a sense of stability and equilibrium that helps us navigate the challenges life throws our way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses anxiety thinking traps and how to use knowledge of these thinking traps to improve our anxiety management and anxiety elimination. Thinking traps can arise as a natural response to stressful or negative events in our lives. Sharing our thoughts traps or conducting self-analysis through journaling are some of the first steps to gaining better understanding of these tendencies. Anxiety recovery becomes natural as we expand our self-knowledge, especially those dimensions that contribute to the anxiety. Listen in and take further steps towards improved self knowledge and anxiety recovery 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Blessed are the hearts that can bend; they shall never be broken. -St. Francis De Sales Chapters 0:00:53 Recognizing Thinking Traps for Managing Anxiety 0:03:12 Common Triggers and Cognitive Distortions 0:07:58 Importance of Awareness and Strategies to Challenge Distortions 0:13:58 The Importance of Emotional Regulation and Cognitive Distortions 0:15:11 Building Self-Compassion and Resilience through Awareness 0:16:48 Developing a Balanced Thought Process to Manage Anxiety Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the importance of recognizing thinking traps as a way to effectively manage anxiety. Thinking traps, also known as cognitive distortions, have the potential to influence our thoughts and lead to biased thinking if we are not mindful of them. There are several factors that can make us more susceptible to falling into these thinking traps, such as experiencing stressful events or negative experiences in our lives. Additionally, having low self-esteem, engaging in social comparison, being a perfectionist, and having conflicts in our relationships can all contribute to the development of these patterns. We must also consider the role that chronic pain or illness, personal biases, trauma, past experiences, and lack of self-awareness can play in fostering thinking traps. It is important to note that thinking traps are common and not something to be ashamed of. The goal is not to eliminate them entirely, but rather to become cognizant of when they occur and develop strategies to challenge and reframe them. There are various practices that can be helpful in addressing and reducing the impact of thinking traps, such as mindfulness, journaling, self-reflection, and reading inspirational books. By incorporating these practices into our lives, we become more adept at recognizing and working with our thinking traps, which in turn allows us to decrease stress and emotional distress. When we become aware of our thinking traps and actively work with them, we can begin to reduce the triggers that lead to anxiety and gain a better understanding of our personal cognitive patterns. Writing down our thoughts or voicing them to someone else aids in the identification of these traps, making it easier for us to recognize the situations or beliefs that trigger our anxiety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the Buddhist concept of feeling tones and how this knowledge can enhance our mindfulness practice and speed our anxiety recovery. Pleasant, unpleasant and neutral are basic categories by which we may categorize our conscious experiences. By doing so, we can become more familiar with our selves and our inner reactions to various stimuli. This leads to improved awareness and preparation for what ever may come into our experience. We become stronger and less likely to fall prey to the suffering of anxiety. Listen in and apply these concepts to your anxiety recovery journey 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Meditation is not an escape. It is the courage to look at reality with Mindfulness. —Thich Nhat Hanh Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to the topic of transforming stress and anxiety 0:01:52 Explanation of the three feeling tones: pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral 0:06:03 Benefits of understanding and cultivating awareness of feeling tones 0:10:10 Skillful responses and reducing avoidance through understanding feeling tones 0:11:21 Incorporating mindfulness practices and meditation to distinguish feeling tones 0:12:27 Guided meditation instruction on tuning into feeling tones 0:15:48 Cultivating Awareness of the Body and Sound 0:16:29 Resting in Open Mindfulness for Mental Wandering 0:17:21 Cultivating Awareness of Feeling Tones in Daily Life 0:18:19 The Power of Increasing Awareness and Letting Go 0:18:39 Meditation: Courageously Facing Reality with Mindfulness Summary In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the concept of feeling tones based on Buddhist psychology. Feeling tones encompass the three fundamental categories of feelings or sensations that arise in response to our experiences: pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral. By understanding these feeling tones, we can gain valuable insights into the nature of our experiences and gradually reduce attachment and aversion, ultimately leading to a more peaceful state of mind. By recognizing feeling tones, we can enhance our ability to deal with anxiety by cultivating self-awareness and identifying when anxiety arises. By developing an awareness of feeling tones, we can interrupt automatic patterns of responding with fear or aversion, thus diminishing the intensity of stress and anxiety. Moreover, comprehending feeling tones empowers us to regulate our emotions more effectively and foster a sense of equanimity. Through acknowledging and accepting different feeling tones, even those associated with discomfort and anxiety, we can cultivate self-compassion and alleviate self-judgment. This self-acceptance reduces the additional stress we impose upon ourselves when we become anxious about being anxious. Additionally, an understanding of feeling tones enables us to respond more skillfully to anxiety-provoking circumstances, opting for a more constructive and composed approach. By progressively confronting situations in a measured and courageous manner, we can reduce avoidance behaviors that frequently accompany anxiety. Overall, comprehending feeling tones offers valuable insights and tools for transforming stress and anxiety, guiding us towards a more peaceful and liberated state of mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener question regarding anxiety, aging and procrastination. This listener in particular seems to struggle with procrastination in retirement and this exacerbates her anxiety. Watching what we eat and drink and taking extra care around our sleep hygine is recommended. Putting the journal to use is also suggested. Listen in for more information on the topic of anxiety and aging! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Much of the stress that people feel doesn't come from having too much to do. It comes from not finishing what they started. –David Allen Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and Listener Question on Procrastination in Older Adults 0:02:01 Procrastination not considered a mental health condition, but linked to other challenges 0:03:19 Interconnectedness of Procrastination and Mental Health 0:13:59 Identifying Distractions and Making Changes 0:14:58 Adjusting Mood and Energy Levels for Productivity 0:16:12 Evaluating Tasks and Redefining Priorities Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we explore the topic of procrastination and its connection to anxiety, with a specific focus on older adults. A concerned listener reached out to us about their struggles with procrastination, insomnia, and burnout during retirement. While procrastination itself is not a mental health condition, research has found links between procrastination and depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Chronic procrastination can lead to increased stress, impaired concentration and memory, mood disorders, lower self-esteem, and avoidance coping. It can also strain relationships and create a cycle of stress and anxiety. To address procrastination, we need to develop better time management and organizational skills. One area we can focus on is addressing sleep issues that may arise after retirement. When individuals retire, significant changes occur in their routines and activities. While some may find relief from the lack of structure and stress, others struggle with filling their day and fail to get enough quality sleep. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, becomes important, even without the obligations of work. We must also consider why it is challenging to follow a schedule when external deadlines or pressures no longer exist. Managing our own time can be a skill that needs to be learned. As the host of this podcast, staying on schedule is crucial for maintaining momentum. Procrastination among older adults is often connected to emotional factors such as regret, stress, distress, depression, anxiety, fatigue, and reduced life satisfaction. Journaling can be a helpful tool in identifying and addressing these underlying issues. The retirement environment is also different from the working environment, so creating a suitable environment for our retired life and setting boundaries to manage distractions properly become important. When procrastination occurs, it is essential to pay attention to any mood or energy crashes and consider adjusting meal times and foods to mitigate these crashes. Factors such as caffeine intake, sugar consumption, and inadequate nutrition can contribute to fluctuations in energy levels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the many benefits of hormesis. In the case of anxiety healing and prevention, hormesis involves using small bits of stress to help strengthen our minds and bodies. Learn how to become more adaptive to stress and become more resilient to your anxiety-responses, 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Stressors are the crux of health. Some are essential to build resilience and vibrance. Judicious implementation is key. -Ari Whitten Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and Quote on Stressors and Health 0:01:35 Definition and Examples of Hormesis 0:03:27 Benefits and Observations of Hormetic Responses 0:05:59 Hormesis and Mental Health Mechanisms 0:10:39 Various Effects and Implications of Hormesis 0:12:07 Avoidance and Atrophy of Strengths 0:13:52 Embracing Smaller Stressors for Growth 0:15:20 Cold Showers: Building Resilience and Boosting Immunity 0:16:21 The Power of Foods: Phytochemicals and Hormetic Stressors 0:17:42 Combining Hormetic Stressors for Overall Health Benefits 0:18:58 Mindfulness and Meditation: Hormesis for Mental Health Long Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the concept of mindful hormesis and its potential benefits for mental well-being. Let's start by defining hormesis as the phenomenon where exposure to low doses of a harmful agent can have a beneficial effect, whereas higher doses would be detrimental. We can think of it as the idea that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. Examples of stressors that trigger hormetic responses include physical stressors like exercise, chemical stressors like antioxidants, and biological stressors like certain viruses and toxins. These stressors activate adaptive stress response pathways in our bodies, leading to increased resilience and various benefits such as improved health, enhanced immune function, and increased resistance to stressors. Now, let's talk about the U-shaped dose-response curve associated with hormesis. This curve shows that low doses of stressors have beneficial effects, but higher doses do not. It's like the Goldilocks principle – we want just the right amount of stressors to activate our adaptive responses without overwhelming our system. Now, how does hormesis relate to our mental health? Well, it turns out that hormesis can potentially play a role in improving mental well-being through several mechanisms. One of the key factors is stress adaptation – by exposing ourselves to mild stressors, we can teach ourselves to better handle and adapt to stress in our daily lives. This can lead to reduced anxiety and increased resilience. Another important factor is neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to change and adapt. By subjecting ourselves to low-dose stressors, we can promote the growth of new neural connections and enhance our brain's ability to cope with stress and regulate our emotions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the relatively common anxiety symptom of dissociation and how to better cope with this distressing experience. Dissociation and derealization are not limited as symptoms to anxiety disorders but occur with other mental health conditions as well, such as depression. Learn that dissociation is not dangerous and comfort yourself that it will pass and it is not a sign of some severe mental pathology. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are. –Rachel Naomi Remen Chapters 0:00:48 Coping with Overwhelming Emotions: Dissociation Explained 0:02:02 Causes of Dissociation: Trauma, Childhood Experiences, Attachment Disruptions 0:04:38 Biological Factors and Predisposition to Dissociative Disorders 0:05:35 Understanding Dissociation as a Coping Mechanism 0:07:45 Common Symptoms of Dissociation 0:13:19 Dissociation and its Connection to Mental Health Issues Summary In today's episode, we delve into the topic of dissociation as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions. Dissociation is not exclusive to individuals diagnosed with dissociative disorders - it can occur in anyone facing highly emotionally overwhelming situations. Trauma, especially childhood trauma like abuse or neglect, is a primary cause of dissociation. Other factors such as adverse childhood experiences, attachment disruptions, biological factors, and cultural/societal factors can also contribute to dissociation. Dissociation serves as a way for individuals to cope with overwhelming emotions by mentally disconnecting or escaping from distressing situations. It often co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Recognizing the common symptoms of dissociation, such as memory loss, distorted perception, and a sense of unreality, is crucial. Understanding these symptoms helps individuals evaluate whether they still rely on dissociation when it is no longer necessary. Sometimes, people may experience a distorted sense of reality or a feeling of unreality in their surroundings. However, it is important not to add fear to these experiences but rather approach them with curiosity. Keeping a journal and discussing these perceptions with a therapist or coach can provide insights and understanding. Feeling detached from oneself, emotions, or having a blurred sense of identity can also be signs of dissociation. These symptoms are often present when individuals are coming out of an anxious or panic state. Inability to cope with emotional or professional stress is another indicator of dissociation, as individuals feel disconnected and unable to handle such challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the lizard brain (the amygdala) and how we can use our capacity for higher reasoning to manage and direct the lizard brain to our advantage. Checking in with ourselves and assessing whether the discomfort we are experiencing is really dangerous can help us reduce lizard brain activation and thereby reduce our anxiety. Listen in for tips on how to better manage your lizard brain and reduce your anxiety-panic 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: If you don't manage your reptilian brain, it will manage you. -Ram V Iyer Chapters 0:00:24 Understanding the Lizard Brain and Its Effects 0:02:09 The Role of the Amygdala in Warning and Protecting Us 0:03:44 Utilizing Our Evolved Brain to Manage Anxiety 0:06:18 Recognizing discomfort vs. danger and managing stress 0:17:29 Retraining the Brain to Manage Discomfort 0:19:02 Taking Control of the Lizard Brain Summary In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the topic of managing the lizard brain, which refers to the amygdala. The amygdala serves as an alarm system in our brain, alerting us to potential danger and feeding off worry and stress. However, it is within our power to manage this response. The lizard brain should only be activated in moments of genuine danger, but often, we mistakenly overuse or overstimulate it by perceiving everyday worries and stressors as real threats. In contrast, our prefrontal cortex is a remarkable part of our brain that enables us to think and make rational decisions. We must learn to ask ourselves if we are genuinely in danger when faced with challenging situations. If not, we can allow the amygdala to settle down and return to a state of rest. It's crucial to recognize that discomfort and negative emotions are a normal part of the human experience, but attaching unnecessary worry and storytelling to them only intensifies the lizard brain's response. Instead, we can draw inspiration from animals who simply shake off danger or conflict and move forward. By leveraging our prefrontal cortex and effectively managing our lizard brain, we can discover peace and serenity in our lives. What sets us apart from other animals is our thinking ability. However, this very ability often leads us astray by keeping our amygdala, the primitive part of our brain responsible for fear and survival instincts, in a constant state of activation. Our thoughts, worries, and stressors only serve to amplify the situation. When we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, it is crucial to practice asking a simple question: "Am I truly in danger right now?" Discomfort does not necessarily indicate danger, and recognizing this can prevent the lizard brain from seizing control and subjecting our bodies to undue stress. We must train ourselves to differentiate between discomfort and genuine danger, allowing our amygdala to guide us only when facing true peril. By taking a step back, acknowledging our safety, and focusing on bodily sensations such as breathing and muscle relaxation, we can shift our mindset from fear to tranquility. It is essential to grant ourselves permission to experience discomfort and avoid triggering our amygdala with unnecessary stressors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina the dynamics between the experience of need for control over our lives, anxiety and the use of the miraculous technique of surrender to help us calm and overcome anxiety. Byron Katie's thought and work is discussed and Gina provides a number of tips for utilizing the ability of surrender to what is to help us improve our lives 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: I am a lover of what is, not because I am a spiritual person, but because it hurts when I argue with reality. -Byron Katie Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to Anxiety Control and Surrender 0:02:43 Listener Email and the Importance of Addressing Underlying Issues 0:06:14 Stoicism and Distinguishing What's in Our Control 0:07:08 Surrendering and Letting Go of Control 0:09:04 Being Present in the Moment and Accepting What Is 0:10:42 Working Towards Goals with Love and Acceptance 0:11:47 Surrendering to the Present Moment and Embracing What Is 0:13:20 Curiosity over Judgment and Control 0:14:11 Seeing the World with Fresh Eyes 0:15:12 Embracing Reality and Letting Go of Control Summary Welcome back to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast. Today, we received a beautiful email from our listener, Eric, who expressed gratitude for the podcast and made a donation. We appreciate Eric's kind words and support. Moving on to today's topic, we explore anxiety, control, and surrender. I recently had a conversation with a client about Byron Katie's book, "Loving What Is," and her concept of "my business, your business, and God's business." It's important to recognize what is within our control and to stay focused on our own business. Stoicism can be a helpful philosophy in this regard, as it guides us to distinguish between what is in our control and what isn't. Ryan Holiday's writings on stoicism emphasize the importance of making smart decisions, taking care of ourselves, and being in charge of our own lives. Surrendering, in this context, doesn't mean giving up, but rather letting go of the need to control everything and accepting the present moment as it is. Instead of striving for perfection, we should aim to do our best and understand that our best is good enough. Surrendering is about being fully present in the moment and embracing the things we can control rather than obsessing over the future. We are exploring the concept of surrender and being fully present in the moment. Surrender means accepting things as they are and loving what is. We can start by simply pausing and relaxing into the present moment, rather than trying to control or change things. The present moment is what it is, and we cannot control it. Surrendering and letting go of control can save us energy and life force. It's important to check our motives for work, goals, and desires. Are they driven by fear or for the good of it? Surrendering and accepting what is can give us a sense of peace and vitality. We don't need to judge our thoughts and feelings, but instead, be curious about them. Seeing the world through fresh eyes can bring us a renewed appreciation for everyday things. By practicing surrender and letting go of control, we can find more peace and embrace reality as it is. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses seven easy to implement strategies to reduce stress in your life and thereby lessen your anxiety. These are important, logical tools that can have a miraculous impact on improving the overall ease of your life. Don't get bogged down by the little annoyances in life. Use these strategies and start feeling happier and more peaceful 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. –Martin Luther King Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction: Bringing Mind and Body to Peace and Calm 0:01:19 How to Reduce Stress: Strategies and Reminders 0:01:29 Little Stressors: Draining our Ability to Enjoy Life 0:02:15 Managing Little Stressors: Reduce Clutter and Get Organized 0:03:05 Taking Care of the Little Things: Addressing Annoyances and Procrastination 0:13:10 Taking Breaks for Increased Energy and Productivity 0:14:38 Evaluating and Fine-Tuning Relationships 0:16:01 Assessing Job Stress and Making Changes Summary In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into seven simple strategies for reducing stress in our daily lives. As host Gina Ryan emphasizes, it's crucial to tackle those small stressors that may accumulate and diminish our ability to enjoy life fully. First and foremost, we discuss the significance of becoming more organized and reducing clutter. Doing so can alleviate the mental burden and free up our internal resources. Another effective strategy is making a list of tasks that need to be accomplished and actively addressing them. In this way, we can effectively manage stress and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Addressing nuisances is also essential. We're encouraged to compile a list of things that annoy us and create a plan to tackle them head-on. In doing so, we eliminate constant sources of stress and bring more ease into our lives. While relaxation time often takes a backseat, the importance of scheduling it cannot be stressed enough. Engaging in activities that relax and rejuvenate us is vital for our overall well-being. Taking short breaks throughout the day for stretches or mini meditations can effectively relieve tension and provide us with renewed energy. Evaluating our relationships is another way to minimize stress. We're urged to assess which relationships need improvement, which can be let go, and which require more attention. This helps create healthier dynamics that alleviate stress in our interpersonal connections. Lastly, we explore the impact of our jobs on our stress levels. Making changes is crucial in this aspect, whether it's updating your resume and exploring new job opportunities or setting boundaries and expressing your needs in your current workplace. For stay-at-home parents, seeking help and establishing firmer boundaries may be necessary. Retirement is an option worth considering, and if finances require it, taking on additional work or starting a side gig or business might be beneficial. Recognizing even the smallest stressors within our careers or jobs is important, as collectively they can significantly impact our overall well-being. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener question regarding health anxiety. There is often much knowledge in our minds regarding our own personal history and how it can relate to health. Anxiety can often take advantage of our own self-knowledge and health related knowledge we have picked up in our lives, including through internet research. Listen in for the good news about the human body's awesome capacity for resilience and learn how to better tame your health and symptom related thinking and feel 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Your calm mind is the ultimate weapon against your challenges. So relax. –Bryant McGill Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and Listener Question on Healing from Anxiety 0:02:39 Understanding the Resilience of the Human Body 0:09:06 The Brain's Capacity for Healing and Restoration 0:13:54 The Importance of Patience in Seeking Medical Care 0:14:44 Avoiding the Pitfalls of Health Anxiety 0:16:28 Overcoming Anxiety and Not Mistaking Symptoms for Illness Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, Gina Ryan discusses healing from anxiety and trusting the body's resilience. The topic stems from a listener question about health anxiety and the fear of developing dementia or Alzheimer's. Gina acknowledges that anxiety often lands on what we care about most and can lead to worrying about potential damage caused by stress and past substance abuse. Gina delves into specific ways the body can heal and recover, such as neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, reduced inflammation, restoration of neurotransmitter balance, and enhanced blood flow and oxygenation. Stress and alcohol abuse may disrupt the brain's neural connections and neurotransmitter balance, but the brain has the incredible capacity to reorganize and form new connections. Furthermore, reducing stress and alcohol consumption can decrease inflammation in the brain, promoting healing and restoration. Regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle also aid in improving blood flow and oxygenation, supporting the brain healing process. Gina proceeds to discuss the manifestations of health anxiety, including excessive worrying about sickness or injury, frequent body checking, seeking reassurance from others, obsessive online searches, and avoiding anything related to serious illness. She advises against relying on internet searches and instead encourages seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or waiting to see if symptoms persist. Additionally, she highlights the common tendency to avoid activities out of fear and mistake anxiety symptoms for signs of illness. Keeping a journal to track behaviors such as body checking, reassurance seeking, and online searching can help reduce these habits over time. The main takeaway is to be mindful of thoughts about one's health and not give in to every fleeting worry. With practice, old habits can be broken, and a better mental state can be achieved. Gina concludes the episode by quoting Bryant McGill, reminding listeners that a calm mind is their ultimate weapon against challenges. She signs off with a farewell and best wishes until the next podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina reviews Claire Weekes' work on anxiety recovery. Weekes' basic program of facing, accepting, floating and letting time pass is a potent game plan for many individuals' anxiety recovery journey. Listen in to learn more about Claire Weekes' approach to anxiety recovery and improve your own anxiety recovery today! Hope and Help for Your Nerves https://amzn.to/3pmRxNj 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Be prepared to think and feel anything. Let come what will. -Claire Weekes Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to Claire Weeks and her impact on anxiety healing 0:01:35 Discovering Claire Weeks' work and the impact it had 0:02:59 Understanding Claire Weeks' background and approach to anxiety treatment 0:04:06 Exploring the four key principles of Claire Weeks' approach 0:06:06 Breaking the Habit: You Can Do It! 0:07:19 Taking Care of Ongoing Stress and Anxiety 0:08:37 Managing Anxiety and Panic for Improved Mental Health 0:10:02 Anxiety is a Common Human Experience That Can Be Managed 0:11:25 Panic Attacks: Overcoming Intense Fear Responses 0:13:35 Breaking the Cycle of Fear and Recurrence 0:15:31 Empowering Recovery: Regaining Control over Your Life 0:16:57 Believing in Your Ability to Get Better from Anxiety and Panic Long Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the teachings of Dr. Claire Weeks and her compassionate approach to healing anxiety. I share my own personal journey with Weeks' work, highlighting how it has influenced me and my approach to helping others with anxiety. Weeks believed in the importance of understanding and accepting anxiety symptoms, rather than fighting against or avoiding them. She emphasized the need to educate oneself about anxiety, recognizing the physical manifestations, and understanding that they are not harmful. This approach, often referred to as the self-help or acceptance-based approach, involves facing the fear, accepting and floating through anxious sensations, allowing time to pass, and gradually rebuilding one's life. By applying Weeks' principles or seeking professional help, individuals can effectively manage anxiety and panic, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being. Together, let's explore her teachings and empower ourselves to find peace amidst anxiety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina provides a step by step guide on how to overcome the anxiety we may be facing surrounding air travel. From understanding our fear and gathering knowledge about the process of air travel to gradually exposing ourselves to the air travel process and studying and implementing relaxation techniques, this guide will help make air travel possible for you. Listen in to these numerous techniques to prepare yourself for air travel and feel more calm in the skies during your next flight! 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. LINK to BODY-SCAN https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/p/body-scan/ Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning how to sail my ship. -Louisa May Alcott Chapters 0:00:24 Welcome back to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast 0:01:16 In-Flight Peace and Calm Meditation for Subscribers 0:13:46 Celebrating Small Steps Towards Overcoming Fear 0:14:41 Embracing Patience and Persistence in the Journey 0:15:33 Sharing the Commonality of Fear of Flying Long Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I discuss several strategies to overcome the fear of flying. I start by suggesting a guided body scan meditation as a way to relax before a flight. I then emphasize the importance of viewing excitement as a positive emotion, rather than anxiety, to signal to our brains that we are safe. Visualizing positive outcomes and seeking support from family, friends, or support groups are also encouraged. I recommend utilizing self-help resources such as books, online forums, and mobile applications specifically designed to help overcome the fear of flying. Preparing for the flight is crucial, including arriving at the airport early and packing essentials. I highlight the value of distractions during the flight, such as listening to music, watching movies, reading books, or engaging in conversation, to divert the mind from anxiety-provoking thoughts. Celebrating small victories along the way is important, as each step forward brings us closer to overcoming fear. I remind listeners that everyone's journey is unique and to be patient and persistent with oneself. Overcoming fear of flying is a gradual process that may involve multiple flights or challenges, but with perseverance, fear can be diminished and the joy of air travel experienced. I conclude the podcast by encouraging listeners to share this episode with anyone they know who may have a fear or stress around flying, as it is a common fear. I share my personal experiences with fear of flying, acknowledging that while I am no longer afraid, I still find it uncomfortable at times. I stress the importance of viewing discomfort as a part of the process and remind listeners that they are safe. The episode concludes with a quote from Louisa May Alcott, highlighting the idea of learning to navigate through challenging situations like storms. Overall, the podcast offers practical tips, encouragement, and support to help conquer the fear of flying and embrace the joy of air travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the useful heath and wellness practice of grounding. The essentially free and generally easy practice of putting your body in contact with the earth (such as by walking barefoot on the grass) can have surprising heath benefits. Listen in today and discover how grounding may help alleviate your anxiety symptoms! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Change what you can, manage what you can't. —Raymond McCauley Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction to the topic of grounding and anxiety management 0:01:12 Explanation of grounding and its benefits for the nervous system 0:04:10 Specific benefits of grounding: reducing inflammation, improving sleep, reducing stress and anxiety, and enhancing energy and vitality. 0:13:30 Introduction to Grounding Techniques and Anxiety 0:14:17 Grounding Techniques for Anxiety Reduction 0:16:13 Grounding Enhances Acceptance and Interrupts Negative Thoughts Long Summary Welcome to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, and today we're discussing grounding and its role in managing anxiety. Grounding is a technique that aims to heal an overactive nervous system and reduce inflammation, a contributing factor to anxiety, by connecting the body to the Earth's electrical energy. Research on grounding is still limited, but many experts recommend grounding for an array of benefits, which we will explore further today. Grounding can provide us with improved sleep, better energy and vitality, and a reduction in stress and inflammation, which are all aspects that can either reduce or exacerbate anxiety. It can also provide us with a sense of stability, present-moment awareness, and calmness. We can achieve grounding through simple exercises such as barefoot walking on natural surfaces, engaging in gardening activities, outdoor exercises, and spending more time in nature. Apart from this, we can also take the help of specially designed grounding mats, sheets, and shoes that can connect us with the earth's energy. Although this is still an emerging field of study, there is no harm in trying these practices to see if they work for you, especially if you are someone who frequently experiences anxiety. Managing anxiety boils down to making changes that we can, and accepting those that we cannot. Therefore, it is essential to take care of ourselves by engaging in activities that reduce stress and anxiety levels. In conclusion, getting outside and putting our feet on the ground while being close to nature can provide us with a range of benefits and improved mental health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the lump in the throat and other anxiety-related throat symptoms. These disturbing symptoms can exacerbate anxiety and cause unnecessary physical and mental suffering in those who experience them. Listen in for advice on how to interpret these sensations and how to eliminate them with lifestyle changes! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: You must learn to let go. Release the stress. You were never in control anyway. – Steve Maraboli Chapters 0:00:32 Understanding Throat Symptoms Related to Anxiety 0:02:14 Gina's Personal Experience with Throat Symptoms and Anxiety 0:09:42 Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) and Symptoms 0:12:25 Anxiety as a Factor in LPR 0:13:36 Anxiety Affects Digestive Patterns and Habits 0:16:04 Managing Anxiety to Reduce Impact on LPR Symptoms Long Summary In this episode, we dive into the topic of throat symptoms related to anxiety. We discuss the globus sensation and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), both of which can be distressing but typically not indicative of serious medical conditions. It's crucial to rule out any underlying medical issues with a healthcare professional. We share our personal experience with both conditions and stress that managing anxiety and stress is key to reducing throat symptoms. Anxiety can lead to increased muscle tension, hypersensitivity, increased swallowing frequency, and acid reflux. Relaxation exercises, deep breathing, mindfulness, and stress reduction strategies can help alleviate symptoms, and in some cases, seeing a coach or a therapist may be necessary to address underlying anxiety issues. We also discuss LPR, or silent reflux, which is caused by the backward flow of stomach acid into the larynx and pharynx. This condition can cause a range of symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Lifestyle changes and voice therapy techniques can help manage LPR, but it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment. Anxiety and stress can also potentially exacerbate LPR symptoms in some individuals by affecting the function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Managing anxiety through stress reduction techniques and relaxation exercises can benefit those with LPR symptoms. We emphasize that it's essential to stay calm when experiencing physical symptoms or sensations and not let our minds add to the stress of the situation. Progressive muscle relaxation can help with tension in the throat. Sensations can be caused by anxiety or other conditions, but they are not life-threatening. We need to let go of stress and remember that we were never in control anyway. For more information or support, email the Anxiety Coaches Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares a practice of using a metaphor to better understand and explain our struggles with anxiety. A specific metaphor of a mountain is provided within the episode. Listeners are encouraged do develop their own metaphors based on their own personal experiences with anxiety. Listen in and gain greater understanding of your anxiety 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Every mountaintop is within reach if you just keep climbing. -Mountaineer Barry Finlay Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and Overview 0:01:32 The Benefits of Metaphors for Anxiety 0:07:16 Using the Metaphor of Climbing a Mountain to Overcome Anxiety 0:16:13 Using Metaphors to Cope with Anxiety 0:17:19 Sharing Your Metaphor and Helping Others Summary The Anxiety Coaches Podcast delves into the idea of transforming fear and anxiety into strength with the use of metaphors. In this episode, the host Gina Ryan speaks in-depth about the power of metaphors when managing anxiety. She outlines how these metaphors allow us to externalize anxiety from our sense of self, which allows us to view our anxiety from a different, more constructive perspective. Ryan also explains how using metaphors can simplify anxiety, create a connection with personal experiences, facilitate communication and expression, and stimulate creative problem-solving. To drive her point home, the speaker offers her own metaphor of anxiety as a mountain. She describes how the jagged peaks of the mountain represent worries, doubts, and fears that can be almost insurmountable. As individuals climb higher and overcome obstacles, they gain a new perspective and emerge stronger on the other side. By visualizing anxiety as a mountain to conquer, the speaker urges her listeners to see anxiety as a challenge to be faced and embraced, rather than something to be fought and avoided. Furthermore, the metaphorical mountain can become a catalyst for growth and self-discovery, transforming anxiety into an opportunity for personal development. In the podcast, Ryan encourages her listeners to create their own metaphors for anxiety and to share them with others. She hopes that her words will provide guidance and comfort to those struggling with anxiety and enable them to view their anxiety from a new perspective. Overall, this podcast offers an insightful and empowering approach to managing anxiety through the use of metaphors. Anxiety, Metaphors, Externalize, Perspective, Simplify, Creativity, Communication, Personal Growth, Self-Discovery, Empowering Approach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the beneficial, healing properties of the perception of water. Water colors, water sounds and water environments are documented to have beneficial properties for mental health and well-being. Listen in for insight on how you can use the beneficial properties of having water in your environment, even if you don't live near any large bodies of water! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Water is sufficient…the spirit moves over water. -Friedrich Nietzsche Chapters 0:00:24 Introduction and Benefits of Being Near Water 0:03:02 Advantages of Being Near Water for Mental Health 0:10:30 Accessible Ways to Incorporate Water into Daily Life 0:13:20 Introduction to Water Sounds for Relaxation and Stress Relief 0:14:18 Water Sounds as Sleep Aid and Focus Enhancer 0:16:42 Water Sounds for Meditation and Creative Activities Summary The Anxiety Coaches Podcast delves into the benefits of water and the impact it can have on easing anxiety and improving mental health. In this episode, the hosts discuss the advantages of being near water, which includes inducing introspection, mindfulness, and relaxation. Furthermore, studies show that people who live near water experience lower risks of mental health problems and higher levels of general well-being. Therefore, it is essential to spend time near or listen to water for therapeutic benefits. The podcast suggests that even if people cannot visit natural bodies of water, listening to or viewing water can produce similar benefits. Water sounds and videos can promote relaxation and stress relief, aid sleep, improve focus and productivity, mindfulness and meditation, and serve as ambient background noise. Incorporating water into daily routines can contribute to better mental health. Additionally, the podcast recommends using visuals of serene natural settings or having physical paintings and photographs in the surroundings to reduce anxiety and provide a temporary mental retreat. The hosts suggest trying different kinds of water sounds and exploring various platforms or apps that offer water-themed relaxation or meditation content. The episode concludes with a quote from Nietzsche and the host wishing good health to the listeners. Overall, the podcast emphasizes the importance of using water as a means to improve mental health while enjoying the beauty of nature. podcast, Anxiety Coaches, water, mental health, relaxation, stress relief, focus, productivity, meditation, apps Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the five love languages people prioritize in different ways so listeners can optimize their relationships and in turn reduce anxiety. Understanding how you prefer to be loved and how your significant others prefer to be love can streamline and optimize how we show our love and support in relationships. Listen in a make your relationships run more smoothly and reduce anxiety at the same time! 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. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman https://amzn.to/3WUVyEL Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: We can't determine our emotions, but we can choose our attitudes and actions. -Gary Chapman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses a mindfulness technique known as the noting practice. With this technique, useful during meditation and also as we extend our meditation practice out into our daily consciousness, we take notice of thoughts and sensations as they arise, label them and return our awareness to the breath. Included is a guided meditation that helps introduce listeners to meditation in general and the noting practice as well. Listen in and expand your mindfulness practice 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Your goal is not to battle with the mind, but to witness the mind. –Swami Muktananda Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses codependency and how it is often associated with chronic anxiety. Codependency can easily lead to anxiety and a number of reasons why are shared. The characteristics of codependency are included as are questions you can ask yourself to know if you are codependent. Resources for learning more about codependency are also shared in this podcast. 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. Codependent No More by Melody Beattie https://amzn.to/3MSSnZH Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Codependents have such a strong tendency to put others before themselves they often have difficulty recognizing their own needs and desires. – Melody Beattie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina answers a listener question about how to handle scary thoughts caused by her anxiety. For this listener, meditation is often difficult because the scary thoughts intrude and disturb her while trying to focus on the breath. Recognizing and acknowledging the thoughts as they come and persisting in mindfulness practice (living in the present moment) are among the included suggestions. Listen in for more advice on how to handle this common problem! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones. -Chinese Proverb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares a guided mediation with listeners with a theme of dropping the thoughts that trouble you most to better help you experience peace in the present moment. It is often worries about the future and regret about the past that increases our anxiety to the breaking point. Letting go of thoughts about the past and the future will allow us to immerse in the present moment. Listen to this meditation to help unlock access to the treasure of the present moment. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Some of us think holding on makes us strong, but sometimes it is letting go. –Herman Hesse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the many ways incorporating more spaciousness in your life can reduce anxiety and stress. How more spaciousness can improve your life, including more freedom to explore and more harmony and balance, is discussed. Constructive steps you can take to increase the amount of spaciousness in your life is included. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: There is beauty and freedom in spaciousness, both externally and internally. -Jack Kornfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares with listeners a wide variety of different meditation practices in hopes that one will be suitable for you! From seated to walking, guided to silent and many others, at least one of these forms of meditation will work for you! Listen in and move deeper into anxiety recovery by starting a new meditation practice 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: The thing about meditation is: you become more and more you. - David Lynch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the miracle that cultivating positive self-worth and positive self-talk can be for long term mental health. A number of specific strategies are included for helping to cultivate and maintain a sense of positive self worth regardless of your circumstances. Self-blame for adverse life circumstances can be maladaptive. Listen in for tips on how to ease up on yourself and feel 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: You are not broken. Your anxiety does not define you. Embrace your journey of healing and growth, for it is through facing your fears that you discover your true strength. - Michelle Terry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina offers listeners an introduction to Stoic philosophy that will be of particular value to helping overcome anxiety. Six key principles of Stoic philosophy are identified and discussed as are four books you can read to help you get started with Stoicism. Learn a new way of understanding your life and the world and become more resilient 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: https://amzn.to/41J6VAu Written by the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, this book is a collection of personal reflections and philosophical insights. It provides practical guidance on how to live a virtuous life and maintain inner peace amidst external challenges. Aurelius offers valuable advice on managing anxiety, embracing acceptance, and focusing on the present moment. Letters from a Stoic by Seneca: https://amzn.to/3OcSamz In this collection of letters, the Stoic philosopher Seneca shares his wisdom on various topics, including dealing with adversity, controlling emotions, and finding tranquility. The letters are written in a conversational style and provide practical advice that can be applied to daily life. Seneca's insights on the nature of anxiety and his management techniques can be particularly useful for anxious individuals. The Stoic Path: The Golden Sayings by Epictetus: https://amzn.to/3IbcCA8 Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher who lived during the first and second century AD. Despite being born into slavery, he became one of the most influential philosophers of his time. Epictetus focused on the idea that our well-being depends on how we react to external circumstances rather than the circumstances themselves. He emphasized the importance of self-discipline, self-control, and aligning our desires with what is within our control. Epictetus' teachings revolved around leading a virtuous life, maintaining tranquility, and developing resilience in the face of adversity ‌A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William B. Irvine: https://amzn.to/3M8lGHj This book is an accessible introduction to Stoic philosophy and its practical application in modern life. Irvine explores Stoic teachings and offers guidance on using Stoic principles to find happiness and overcome challenges. He specifically addresses anxiety and provides actionable strategies for managing anxious thoughts and emotions. Quote: Man is not worried by real problems so much as by his imagined anxieties about real problems. - Epictetus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina answers a listener question about health anxiety. A useful strategy for coping with health anxiety is shared: the art of waiting and seeing. By becoming more comfortable with the physiological symptoms that so often accompany anxiety, we can prevent the anxiety from snowballing into a greater and greater intensity that often culminates in a panic attack. A number of strategies for becoming more comfortable with health symptoms and the related thoughts that arise that will help you minimize anxiety around them are included. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Feel the fear and do it anyway. -Susan Jeffers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the importance of how we breathe in our experience of and recovery from anxiety. Learn the basics of breathing and why slowing down the breath can do wonders for calming our nervous system. Learn how to breathe more through your nose and do so more slowly and reduce your anxiety 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Improper breathing is a common cause of ill health. –Dr. Andrew Weil Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses mental clutter and how learning to let go can be highly beneficial for our mental health. Five reasons letting go of unneeded thoughts and worries can be beneficial are discussed. Additionally, a number of practical steps for implementing this process are included. Get started 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Life moves on and so should we. ―Spencer Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses radical acceptance and how we can use this practice to reduce the severity and adverse consequences of anxiety. Radical acceptance is about accepting reality as it is without judgement or resistance. A number of practical steps are shared to help you implement radical acceptance in your life and in turn reduce your anxiety. Tara Brach's book: Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With the Heart of a Buddha https://amzn.to/41W3gAd 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Clearly recognizing what is happening inside us, and regarding what we see with an open, kind and loving heart, is what I call Radical Acceptance. -Tara Brach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the importance of focusing on the things that bring happiness and positivity into our lives. By focusing on the things and thoughts that bring us happiness, we bring more benevolent things into our lives and consciousness. Anxiety triggers are contrasted with happiness triggers to help you know what to focus on to start increasing the best things in your life 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: You are the sum total of everything you've ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot--it's all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive. -Maya Angelou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares knowledge about the useful mineral supplement magnesium. The general benefits of this essential mineral for our minds and bodies are discussed as are the differences between the many various forms that are available in the marketplace. Listen in to discover what magnesium supplement may be best for you to try 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. – Buddha Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the role of self-criticism in making our anxiety worse and offers a range of practices we can employ today to silence these self-critical voices. Over time we can encourage a new, self-compassionate voice to help us feel better and function better in our day to day lives. Episodes mentioned in today's show: EP 580 CONQUERING ANXIETY WITH AFFIRMATIONS https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/580-conquering-anxiety-with-affirmations EP 561 11 REASONS TO JOURNAL IF YOU ARE ANXIOUS https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/561-11-reasons-to-journal-if-you-are-anxious Get Tara's Book Radical Acceptance on Audible (free with a free trial month!) http://bit.ly/AudibleACP 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete. -Jack Kornfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses the chemicals in our body that contribute to our sense of well-being. Serotonin, dopamine, endorphins and oxytocin are all touched upon and how to increase these feel-good chemicals is shared. Listen in and jump start the natural pharmacy that resides within your body and feel 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: To be alive at all is to have scars. -John Steinbeck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina draws heavily from her own personal experience and discusses heart palpitations caused by anxiety. There are many things that can cause heart palpitations in association with anxiety, many that are very common. Eliminating behaviors that may contribute to heart palpitation susceptibility can be very helpful. Learn how to reduce heart palpitations and handle them with more ease and comfort 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Be patient and tough; someday this pain will be useful to you. -Ovid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses how to develop the ability to choose a healthy response to anxiety when it presents itself. Developing our mindfulness mediation practice will help enable us to choose healthy thoughts in response to our anxiety provoking situations. Once we can master this process, we can tame our anxiety and emerge stronger, healthier individuals. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Greatness lies not in being strong, but in the right use of strength. -Henry Ward Beecher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina answers a listener question regarding OCD related intrusive, looping thinking. Gina goes through a number of strategies for coping with and solving the issue of obsessive compulsive thinking. Strengthening our mindfulness practice and being willing to tolerate the discomfort of our anxiety are some of the ways you can get on top of your intrusive thinking. Listen in for all the details! 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: To react to OCD is to jump into compulsions. To respond to OCD is to observe what your mind is doing and choose your next step. –Jon Hershfield & Tom Corboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina responds to a report from a listener regarding naming anxiety with a human name (in this case Betty) and interacting with her anxiety using this name. This strategy is praised, expanded upon and recommended for all listeners to try! Listen in for a new strategy to tackle your anxiety, including giving it a name and interacting with it on your own terms. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: The way you tell your story to yourself matters. —Amy Cuddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina shares a guided meditation intended to help you drift effortlessly and peacefully to sleep. Listen to Gina's calming, soothing voice as she softly decribes a simple process for falling to sleep. A soft background track of gentle music is included. 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. Episodes mentioned in the episode 904: Strategies for Reducing Stress About Sleep https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/904-strategies-for-reducing-stress-about-sleep/ 536: Sleep And Meditation As Brain Cleansing https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/536-sleep-and-meditation-as-brain-cleansing/ 183: Sound Sleep Tips For When You Have Anxiety https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/183-sound-sleep-tips-for-when-you-have-anxiety/ Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Put your thoughts to sleep, do not let them cast a shadow over the moon of your heart. Let go of thinking. ―Rumi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Gina discusses a critical part of the brain involved in how sensory information affects your anxiety. Known as the reticular activating system or RAS, this brain system can be implicated in both hyperarousal and dysfunctional lack of arousal and awareness. Listen in to learn how to enhance your peace and calm through a better understanding of how this brain system affects your experience. 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. Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership! 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! To learn more go to: https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program  Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Quote: Gratitude is the closest thing to beauty manifested in an emotion. -Mindy Kaling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices