The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

In today's episode, Gina provides guidance for how to the answer the question about whether what you are experiencing is just stress or full fledged anxiety. The symptoms of stress are discussed and contrasted with those of anxiety. Being able to know the difference can help you cope more effectively. Strategies to manage both conditions are shared. Listen in and come to better understand stress and anxiety! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: Stress is the trash of modern life—we all generate it, but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life. -Danzae Pace Chapters 0:42 Understanding Stress and Anxiety 2:03 Defining Stress 3:26 Defining Anxiety 4:46 Triggers of Stress and Anxiety 6:30 Physical Symptoms Explained 7:48 Emotional and Cognitive Differences 9:49 Time Frames of Stress and Anxiety 11:29 Analogies for Understanding 13:32 Managing Stress and Anxiety 16:04 Recognizing Escalation Signs 17:10 Differentiating Stress from Anxiety 18:37 Questions for Self-Reflection 19:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I explore the crucial distinction between stress and anxiety—concepts that are often used interchangeably but represent fundamentally different emotional responses. Understanding the difference can empower listeners to take control of their emotional well-being and develop more effective coping strategies. Through the episode, I provide insights based on the experiences I've gathered through coaching, aiming to clarify these often-confused terms and offer practical tools for self-management. I begin by defining stress as a response to external pressures or demands, often linked to specific situations like job deadlines or family responsibilities. This type of stress is identifiable and can be felt physically, manifesting as headaches, muscle tension, and rapid heart rates. It’s important to recognize that these symptoms typically dissipate once the external stressors are resolved. On the other hand, anxiety is characterized by feelings of apprehension or fear about potential future events that lack immediate external triggers. I describe anxiety as a feeling of impending doom or worry, often accompanied by an array of symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, and hypervigilance, which can persist long after stressors have been removed. The conversation progresses into examining the causes and manifestations of both stress and anxiety. While stress stems from identifiable external factors, anxiety often emerges from internal negative thoughts or worries, leading to a disproportionate reaction to situations that may not warrant such feelings. These variations highlight how stress creates a wave that comes and goes, whereas anxiety can be likened to a cloud that lingers, obscuring clarity of thought even in calm circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina discusses the role of the subconscious mind in our overall anxiety experience. The subconscious mind has powerful effects on how our anxiety manifests in our lives. Using the knowledge of how this occurs, provided in this episode, we can better develop healthier responses to anxiety as it presents itself to us. Get an advantage over your subconscious mind and your anxiety, listen in today! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate. -Carl Jung Chapters 0:42 Understanding the Subconscious and Anxiety 3:38 Negative Thought Patterns and Anxiety 4:47 Conditioned Responses to Anxiety 6:02 Fear of the Unknown 7:22 Self-Protection Mechanisms 8:59 Beliefs and Self-Perception 10:22 Resistance to Change 11:54 Working with Mindfulness 14:11 Disrupting the Anxiety Cycle 16:35 Reducing Avoidance Behaviors 18:47 Strengthening Emotional Regulation 20:03 Reframing Anxious Thoughts 21:17 The Power of Acceptance 22:12 Conclusion and Future Insights Summary In this episode, we delve into the significant role of the subconscious mind in shaping anxiety and our emotional responses. I explore how deeply entrenched beliefs, past experiences, and automatic reactions stored in the subconscious can perpetuate anxiety disorders. We discuss how negative experiences from our past, such as traumas or distressing events, can trigger automatic anxiety responses later in life, often leading us to react irrationally to perceived threats. I share personal experiences to illustrate these concepts, including my own journey with anxiety stemming from a traumatic dog bite in childhood. I explain how the subconscious holds onto memories that can cause an anxious reaction even in harmless situations. Through this narrative, I emphasize the importance of understanding these mechanisms so we can begin to work on them. We proceed to discuss various automatic negative thought patterns that are driven by the subconscious, such as catastrophizing and all-or-nothing thinking. These ingrained patterns, occurring without conscious awareness, can significantly increase feelings of fear and helplessness. Additionally, we touch on conditioned responses, where certain stimuli become linked to anxiety, highlighting the need to recognize these triggers and our reactions to them. The episode further examines the fear of the unknown, a common anxiety catalyst. Our subconscious mind seeks predictability and safety, which can lead to anxiety in uncertain situations. This is often compounded by self-protective mechanisms, where anxiety acts as a defense, particularly in social contexts. Understanding how our beliefs about ourselves and the world contribute to anxiety is crucial for managing these feelings effectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina identifies and discusses the various causes of anxiety. Let this episode open your eyes to the many things in our lives and backgrounds that can contribute to our anxiety-related suffering. With a better understanding of the causes of our anxiety, we can move forward more easily and effectively on our anxiety clearing journey. Listen in today! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.” -Dan Millman Chapters 0:42 Introduction to Anxiety's Causes 2:54 Understanding Personal Factors 6:45 The Role of Trauma in Anxiety 8:12 Substance Abuse and Anxiety 9:19 Environmental Influences 11:50 Coping Skills and Anxiety 14:02 Social and Cultural Pressures 15:49 Fear of Uncertainty 17:00 Managing Academic and Work Pressures 17:47 Taking Control of Your Anxiety Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the complexities of anxiety, exploring its various causes and contributing factors that impact our mental well-being. The focus today is on understanding how anxiety manifests in our lives and the importance of recognizing these triggers rather than believing that eliminating stress or anxious feelings is the ultimate goal. I emphasize that while we may learn to manage our anxiety through mindfulness and calming techniques, the reality is that stress and anxiety will always be part of life. The key is transforming our responses to anxiety and understanding the underlying thought patterns that fuel these feelings. Anxiety is an emotional response influenced by a multitude of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental stresses. These aspects often interplay to shape our vulnerability to anxiety disorders. Throughout the episode, I highlight several significant contributors to anxiety, starting with genetics and family history. Research indicates a hereditary component to anxiety, yet it’s critical to note that environmental influences play a substantial role too. Our surroundings and familial relationships can shape our mental states, and it’s vital to evaluate both genetics and context when considering our anxiety levels. Next, I dive into the role of brain chemistry and how imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, can affect our mood regulation, potentially leading to increased anxiety responses. This biochemical complexity underscores the significance of lifestyle choices—prioritizing good health can positively influence our mental state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina shares the wisdom of Jon Kabat-Zinn regarding the value of building a mindfulness practice, especially emphasizing the importance of regularity of practice. Many people struggle with beginning a regular mindfulness practice, often fearing that they are not doing it right. This episode is here to provide you with the confidence you need to establish and continue a regular mindfulness practice. The benefits of mindfulness for anxiety reduction are immense and available to everyone. Listen in and improve your mindfulness practice today! Book mentioned Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief: Practices to Reclaim Your Body and Your by Jon Kabat-Zinn Ph.D. Link to the book https://amzn.to/3NJl248 Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: Pain may be unavoidable at times, but suffering―in other words, how we relate to the pain―is optional. -Jon Kabat-Zinn Chapters 0:42 Introduction to Mindfulness 3:09 The Power of Disciplined Practice 8:44 The Journey of Mindfulness 13:02 Letting Go of Expectations 14:07 Beautiful Quotes from Jon Kabat-Zinn 18:00 Mindfulness as a Complement to Treatment 20:31 Closing Thoughts and Quotes Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative teachings of Jon Kabat-Zinn, particularly from his book, "Mindfulness Meditation for Pain Relief." Emphasizing the profound impact this work has had on my own journey through anxiety, I explore how mindfulness meditation serves as a powerful tool not only for pain relief but also for managing anxiety and stress. I highlight Kabat-Zinn's illustrious background as the founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Clinic, where his insights stem from a deep-rooted Buddhist practice. While his teachings do not explicitly teach Buddhism, the foundations of his mindfulness practice are steeped in its principles, allowing him to articulate his messages with remarkable clarity. The essence of today's discussion revolves around the parallels between pain and anxiety, suggesting that the journey to understanding and alleviating both conditions is intrinsically linked. Central to our dialogue is the importance of disciplined practice. I emphasize Kabat-Zinn's assertion that mindfulness must be treated as a daily discipline rather than a sporadic endeavor. It's crucial to establish a strong foundation in meditation before integrating mindfulness into other activities in life, such as running or yoga. Only then can we truly harness the benefits of mindfulness as a consistent practice and utilize it to navigate daily stressors effectively. I draw attention to key concepts presented in Chapter Six of Kabat-Zinn's book, focusing on the necessity of consistent mindfulness practice. He likens mindfulness to physical exercise, advocating for long-term commitment and resilience rather than immediate results. The discussion includes insights on developing a compassionate relationship with both anxiety and pain by learning to accept and sit with discomfort rather than resist it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener email, sharing key wisdom regarding the importance of checking the second fear or the fear of the fear of having an anxiety-panic attack. You have the ability to minimize the impact of the initial onset of anxiety through how you interpret and respond to the physiological symptoms and sensations that go along with it. Grab an awesome audio book for FREE, like The Power Of Now  by Eckhart Tolle www.anxietycoachespodcast.com/audibletrial  Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: Stress is caused by being ‘here' but wanting to be ‘there'. –Eckhart Tolle Chapters 0:04 Introduction to Anxiety 3:44 Stepping Off the Merry-Go-Round 8:12 Acceptance and Understanding 10:47 Trusting Yourself 13:28 Dealing with Panic Attacks 15:07 Empowering Yourself Against Fear 15:23 Closing Thoughts and Quotes Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the pervasive issue of anticipatory anxiety, specifically addressing the phenomenon often referred to as "the fear of the fear." This fear can become a significant hurdle in the journey towards managing anxiety, and through the lens of a listener's email, I aim to shed light on coping strategies that can foster a sense of peace and calm. I begin by recognizing the weight of long-term anxiety struggles, particularly drawing from my personal experience and the stories of countless listeners who have faced similar battles. This notion of reverting to anxiety after a period of relief is common, and it’s essential to understand that this cycle can perpetuate itself through self-talk. A line from the email I received resonated deeply: “Oh no, here we go again.” This phrase reflects an all-too-familiar sentiment that can trigger a spiraling response, igniting a cascade of stress rather than allowing room for acceptance and healing. A significant part of our discussion revolves around the concept of acceptance. I emphasize the importance of acknowledging one’s current state without judgment. Over my own journey of wrestling with anxiety, I found that accepting the physical sensations and thoughts I experienced—rather than fighting against them—was a crucial step in lessening their power. I explore how by disassociating our identity from these feelings and realizing that they are transient sensations, we can begin to navigate our anxiety more effectively. The principle of non-judgment plays a critical role in this process. I introduce the metaphor of stepping off the anxiety merry-go-round, which vividly illustrates the chaos that accompanies unrecognized and unaddressed fears. It’s vital for listeners to realize that they can observe their thoughts and sensations without labeling them as either good or bad. This detachment can mitigate the influence of stressors while reinforcing the understanding that such experiences are merely parts of the larger journey rather than defining elements of who we are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina discusses tools to help you stay in the present moment, even amidst the great stress and chaos life can throw at us. Many of these exercises can be put to use in your journal, including reflection to help identify anxiety triggers. Other suggestions include talking with supportive others and creating plans for future steps. Listen in for the complete list of suggestions to keep you in the present moment and to keep the stress and anxiety away! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it. – Thich Nhat Hanh Chapters 0:42 Introduction to Anxiety and Calmness 2:41 Identifying Your Triggers 6:24 Taking a Step Back 9:56 Talking It Out 11:17 Making a Plan 13:51 Seeking Support 14:59 Staying Present 16:33 Observing Your Thoughts 18:00 Practicing Self-Compassion 19:36 Key Steps for Managing Challenges Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the intricacies of managing anxiety during life’s inevitable storms. Life throws challenges our way, whether it's juggling work deadlines, handling family distractions, or simply trying to unwind amidst constant notifications. I explore practical strategies to help us maintain a calm and centered presence when faced with these triggers, as anxiety can grip us more fiercely when we feel overwhelmed. Understanding our triggers is the first step I discuss. Each of us has unique situations that provoke stress or anxiety. By writing down these triggers, we can begin to identify patterns that allow us to avoid or better manage them. For instance, if work deadlines induce panic, starting projects earlier can alleviate that pressure. On the other hand, if family gatherings are triggers, planning enjoyable activities can create a more positive experience. I encourage listeners to adopt proactive habits that reduce stressors before they escalate. We then explore the importance of taking a step back during high-stress moments. Acknowledging the need for distance in stressful encounters allows us to observe the situation more clearly and respond more thoughtfully. This exercise not only applies in professional settings like meetings but also in personal relationships, helping to diffuse conflicts before they escalate. Additionally, I recommend establishing a centered space prior to engaging with external pressures like emails or calls. Talking through our stressors with others can also bring clarity. Whether it's discussing work frustrations with a colleague or seeking support from friends, sharing our burdens can often lead to newfound insights and actionable solutions. I further discuss the power of creating structured plans for overwhelming tasks, which can help restore a sense of control and calm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina shares a powerful guided meditation to help you release your worries before sleep. Allow this soothing guided meditation to release you stress and worries from your mind and help you achieve a deeper and longer sleep. Prepare to embrace more peace and calm with this lovely night-time stress soother. Listen in today, then listen in again at night! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Chapters 0:42 Welcome to Bedtime Meditation 5:51 Embracing the Present Moment 8:02 Letting Go of Worries 9:40 Self-Acceptance and Peace 10:17 Cultivating Calmness 13:58 Trusting Tomorrow 16:06 Closing Reflections Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative power of bedtime meditation to facilitate a smoother transition from the day's stressors to restful sleep. As your host, I emphasize the benefits of releasing worries at the end of the day, allowing ourselves the opportunity to let go of burdens and embrace tranquility. Guided meditation presents an effective method to calm the mind and prepare the body for restorative slumber, which is crucial for those who find their thoughts racing as they lie down at night. I discuss the multiple advantages of incorporating a guided meditation into your nighttime routine. This practice not only calms the mind but also serves to reduce stress and anxiety, creating a positive framework for sleep. I highlight the importance of establishing a positive sleep ritual, which contrasts with the anxiety that often accompanies bedtime for many individuals. By fostering a nighttime routine that embraces relaxation and self-acceptance, we can alleviate the tension that tends to amplify in the dark, quiet moments before sleep. One of the key aspects I touch upon is the idea that guided meditations can help break the cycle of insomnia by promoting emotional regulation. It’s about nurturing ourselves through mindful practices that support a seamless transition into sleep and enhance our overall sleep quality. This episode further encourages listeners to consider their mental state before bed and take proactive steps towards cultivating a peaceful environment that fosters deep, uninterrupted sleep. To illustrate these points, I guide listeners through an accompanying bedtime meditation at the episode's conclusion. I invite everyone to find a comfortable position, relax, and connect with their breath as they embark on a journey of self-exploration and calmness. The meditation encompasses gentle affirmations that encourage listeners to release their worries, embrace self-acceptance, and create a safe space within themselves where they can find peace and rest. It reinforces the notion that everyone, regardless of experience with meditation, can access this simple yet powerful tool. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina discusses the benefits of incorporating meditation into your bedtime routine before sleep. Meditation is a powerful practice that can calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. Meditation primes your mind and body for a peaceful, restful sleep. Listen in to learn more about the benefits of meditation as preparation for sleep and start sleeping better today! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: The mind is everything. What you think, you become. –Buddha Chapters 0:42 Introduction to Guided Meditation 2:15 Benefits of Bedtime Meditation 4:27 Reducing Stress and Anxiety 6:22 Improving Sleep Quality 7:50 Enhancing Mind-Body Connection 9:22 Breaking the Cycle of Insomnia 11:25 Supporting Emotional Regulation 13:38 Trying New Meditations 14:42 Accessibility of Guided Meditations 15:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative power of guided meditation as a bedtime ritual for those struggling with sleep. I often hear from individuals who feel they cannot meditate because they tend to fall asleep during the process. I challenge this notion by suggesting that there is no better way to drift off than through focused meditation. Drawing from my own experiences in day-long silent meditations, I share anecdotes of how even seasoned practitioners find themselves nodding off, and how this is perfectly acceptable. Guided meditation at bedtime presents a multitude of benefits, particularly for those who find it hard to settle down at night. By incorporating this practice into your nightly routine, you can cultivate a calm mindset, which is essential in reducing racing thoughts and the mental clutter that often accompanies the transition to sleep. It's important to recognize that the act of falling asleep during meditation is indicative of a deeper necessity for rest, and it suggests that you can use this time to gently guide yourself into a peaceful state. As the podcast progresses, I explore several key reasons to consider guided meditation as a vital part of your bedtime routine. First and foremost, it effectively calms your mind, shifting your thoughts from anxiety and worry to tranquility. This transition is aided by focusing on a soothing voice and serene imagery, allowing your brain to gradually leave behind the busyness of the day. Additionally, I discuss how a bedtime meditation can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, which are frequent barriers to a good night's sleep. Through relaxing breathing exercises and calming instructions, guided meditations activate the parasympathetic nervous system, fostering an environment conducive to relaxation, decreasing stress hormone levels, and signaling to your body that it's time to unwind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina discusses some of the core fundamentals of self-care. By keeping the needs of our mind, body and spirit met, we are better able to manage our well-being and any anxiety symptoms we may experience. Listen in for tips on how to keep yourself well cared for and keep unhealthy anxiety at bay! Episodes mentioned in today's show 528: SELF CARE WHAT IT REALLY IS LISTENER Q AND A https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/528-self-care-what-it-really-is-listener-q-and-a?rq=528 598: FILL YOUR CUP FIRST TO KEEP ANXIETY AT BAY https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/598-fill-your-cup-first-to-keep-anxiety-at-bay?rq=598 252: ELIMINATING GUILT OVER SELF CARE LISTENER Q ANSWERED https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/episodes/nyqop7xi7boak31bingfxzmjswd3wt?rq=252 Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: The time to relax is when you don't have time for it. – Sydney J. Harris Chapters 0:00 Introduction to Anxiety Self-Care 6:36 Identifying Personal Needs 9:19 Exploring Self-Care Resources 11:00 Essential Practices for Self-Care 16:10 Building Connections for Well-Being Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the foundational concepts of anxiety self-care and how to get started on this essential journey toward mental well-being. Inspired by a lively discussion in our Facebook group, where members expressed feelings of overwhelm and posed the question, “Where do I begin?”, I realized the need to provide clarity on this crucial topic. Understanding where to start with self-care can be challenging, especially when we often find ourselves focused on external responsibilities and the needs of others rather than tending to our own inner peace. I emphasize the importance of self-care as a holistic approach that includes nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Before we can effectively assist those around us—whether they are family, friends, or colleagues—we must first attend to our own needs. Drawing on the familiar analogy of putting on our own oxygen masks first in an airplane emergency, I highlight that we cannot effectively support others if we ourselves are in distress or depleted. The act of self-care is not selfish; rather, it is a vital step that empowers us to contribute positively to the lives of others without feeling overwhelmed or resentful. Throughout the episode, I also address common misconceptions and guilt surrounding self-care practices. Many tend to prioritize external responsibilities over their own well-being, leading to exhaustion or anxiety. I urge listeners to reflect on their own lives and check in with themselves—assessing how they feel, what activities they engage in for self-care, and identifying any gaps in fulfilling their personal needs. This process can be aided by journaling and self-reflection, which can illuminate areas that may require more attention. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode, Gina finishes her discussion of the important link between anxiety and eating disorders. Anxiety can be a risk factor for developing eating disorders as eating disorders can develop as a coping mechanism to anxiety. Both conditions can reinforce each other, creating a cycle. Listen in to better understand this connection and how to understand your own eating in response to stress, and what to watch out for! Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link ACPGroupCoaching.com To learn more, go to: Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching What is anxiety? Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership: For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/ Here's what's included for $5/month: ❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday ❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes ❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind ❤ And more fun surprises along the way! All this in your favorite podcast app! Quote: For many, eating disorders and anxiety are two sides of the same coin. Control over food provides a brief sense of calm, while anxiety continues to fuel the disordered behavior. -Carolyn Costin Chapters 0:23 Introduction to Anxiety and Eating 3:08 The Role of Control in Anxiety 6:31 Understanding the Cycle of Anxiety and Eating Disorders 10:42 Breaking the Cycle of Disordered Eating 12:14 Strategies for Managing Stress and Eating 18:03 Mindful Eating Practices 19:09 Conclusion and Reflection Summary In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve deeper into the intersection of worry and food in the second part of "When Worry Meets Food." Continuing from our previous discussion, I explore how anxiety and disordered eating are intertwined, affecting many individuals in profound ways. We previously discussed specific manifestations of anxiety that relate to food, including fears surrounding body image, social eating anxieties, and obsessive thoughts about diets. It's crucial to recognize that anxiety can act as a risk factor for developing eating disorders, and I invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences if they find anxiety frequently landing around food. Throughout our conversation, I emphasize that individuals often channel their anxiety into eating behaviors to cope with intense emotions. The discussion highlights that whether someone restricts their food intake or engages in binge eating, both behaviors can serve a common purpose: to gain a sense of control in a chaotic emotional landscape. I draw attention to how individuals might use strict dietary rules as a temporary refuge from feelings of anxiety, reinforcing disordered patterns without realizing the long-term consequences. I further explore themes of control and predictability, which anxiety-stricken individuals often crave. A rigid approach to eating can provide a false sense of security, albeit one that ultimately complicates their relationship with food and self-worth. Perfectionism is a recurring theme in our conversation as well, where I discuss how striving for an ideal body or diet amplifies feelings of inadequacy and intensifies the cycle of disordered eating behaviors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.