The Oprah Podcast
Oprah and Mel Robbins on How to Calm Anxiety
May 6, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, bestselling author and motivational speaker Mel Robbins shares her insights on tackling anxiety. She emphasizes practical tools like reframing anxiety as excitement and using deep breathing techniques. Mel discusses the impact of modern lifestyles on mental health, encouraging disconnection from devices and fostering open conversations. Her personal journey shines a light on transforming anxiety into strength, making it clear that understanding this emotion can lead to growth and resilience.
48:24
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Quick takeaways
- Mel Robbins emphasizes reframing anxiety as a temporary feeling rather than a defining trait to diminish its control over one's identity.
- Utilizing grounding techniques, such as engaging the vagus nerve through breathing and physical touch, can effectively manage and calm anxiety.
Deep dives
Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is described as a natural alarm system in the body, triggered by stress and uncertainty. It can manifest when the body shifts from a calm state to a heightened state of alertness, often without a clear cause. This can lead to an immense sense of fear and dread, as individuals feel disconnected from their capacity to cope with challenges. Mel Robbins emphasizes the importance of reframing how one talks about anxiety, recommending phrases like 'I feel anxious' instead of 'I have anxiety' to diminish its power over one's identity.
