The mindbodygreen Podcast 609: How to handle stress, avoid triggers, & overcome regret | Caroline Leaf, Ph.D.
Aug 3, 2025
Caroline Leaf, a renowned cognitive neuroscientist and author, discusses the importance of acknowledging that it's okay not to feel okay. She emphasizes that resilience is a journey, not a quick fix, and shares powerful metaphors to illustrate stress management. Leaf also delves into the brain-body connection, highlighting breathwork as a tool for emotional regulation and how to effectively overcome regret. Her personal journey adds depth to the conversation, offering practical tips for handling pressure and navigating emotional challenges.
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It's Okay Not To Be Okay
- The pressure to "always be okay" increases anxiety instead of reducing it.
- Caroline Leaf stresses that it's essential to accept being not okay as part of life.
Catch Emotional Triggers Quickly
- Catch emotional triggers within 60 seconds to prevent negative spirals.
- Use proactive strategies to pause and respond rather than react impulsively.
Metaphors Aid Self-Regulation
- Use metaphors like "umbrella in a storm" to create a mental pause and self-regulate.
- Practice putting up your "umbrella" to stop anger and prevent emotional flooding.
