The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

In today's episode, Gina responds to a listener email that shares a realization relating to her safety and wellness in the present moment in the face of anxiety. The listener has clearly come to an understanding of some of the core principles shared here on the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, particularly relating to the separation that exists between our existence in the present moments and the thoughts and feelings we may be having in the present moment. Listen in to gain insight on how to handle anxious thoughts and feelings in the present moment and maintain a deeper sense of safety and security despite such thoughts.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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:The relaxation response is a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress... and the opposite of the fight or flight response.-Herbert BensonChapters0:00:24 Listener Epiphany: Feeling Safe in the Present Moment0:01:32 Sharing a Powerful Email from a Listener0:03:05 Importance of Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness0:13:13 The Power of Progressive Muscle Relaxation0:14:17 The Importance of Journaling and Self-Reflection0:17:22 Physical Movement and Letting Go of Unnecessary StressorsSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we dive into the topic of feeling safe in the present moment. One of our listeners had a significant realization after listening to a previous episode - they discovered that their anxiety does not define them and is not a reflection of who they are in the present. Rather, it is tied to thoughts about the past and future. This newfound awareness has allowed them to feel safe and let go of fear. We are overjoyed to see their progress and appreciate their kind words.We emphasize the power of mindfulness meditation in focusing on the present moment and detaching from anxiety. However, we acknowledge that incorporating a new activity into an already busy schedule can be challenging. To ensure consistency, we suggest coupling mindfulness meditation with existing habits, such as practicing it when getting out of bed in the morning or when laying down at night. Additionally, we explore the effectiveness of breathing exercises, particularly the technique of lengthening and slowing down the exhale, which can calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation is also recommended as it helps release tension and increases body awareness in the present moment.As part of managing anxiety, we mention Dr. Herbert Benson's book, "The Relaxation Response," which provides valuable insights and techniques. We stress the importance of self-discovery and utilizing various methods and resources to find what works best for each individual. Journaling is encouraged for identifying patterns of anxious thinking and processing emotions in a safe space, whether it be through traditional journaling or digital methods. Additionally, we suggest physically destroying or discarding written entries as a therapeutic way to release anxious thoughts and emotions. 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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:The natural healing force within each of us is the greatest force in getting well.-HippocratesChapters0:00:24 Introduction to Ancient Wisdom for Modern Anxiety0:02:13 Holistic Approach of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine0:14:53 Promoting Relaxation and Energy Flow0:16:18 Tailoring a Treatment Plan and Communication with Healthcare ProviderSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:Your mind is your instrument. Learn to be its master, not its slave.-Remez SassonChapters0:00:24 Going from random to recognizable with anxious thoughts0:01:09 Realization: Anxieties revolve around future events and scenarios0:03:19 Using mindfulness to bring the mind back to reality0:13:24 Responding to anxieties with a beneficial mindset0:14:39 Resting in the idea of handling it when it comes0:16:31 Realizing the power to come back to the present momentSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:Understanding the intricate threads of introversion, shyness, and social anxiety disorder is a journey toward self-awareness, acceptance, and growth.-UnknownChapters0:00:24 Exploring the Distinctions: Introversion, Shyness, and Social Anxiety Disorder0:03:27 Understanding Introversion: Embracing Inner Experiences0:06:17 The Dance of Discomfort: Exploring Shyness0:07:24 Social Anxiety Disorder: Beyond Shyness0:14:54 The Spectrum of Social Anxiety0:16:13 Managing Anxiety through Avoidance0:17:41 Embracing Self-Awareness and GrowthSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:Strength does not come from the physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.-Mahatma GandhiChapters0:00:24 Introduction to harnessing exercise to tame anxiety0:02:25 Understanding the fight or flight response during exercise0:03:15 Gradual transformation: Overcoming exercise-induced anxiety0:04:23 Changing the crossed wires: Rewiring the brain and body0:06:13 Exploring different exercise options to ease anxiety0:07:52 The connection between lactic acid and anxiety0:10:01 The transformative potential of gentle exercise0:13:03 Establishing a Routine for Exercise0:14:14 Using Exercise to Burn off Stress Hormones0:15:26 Reminders for a Balanced Approach to ExerciseSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but about learning how to dance in the rain.-Vivian GreeneChapters0:00:24 Embracing the Journey to a Brighter Self0:02:12 Transforming Our Relationship with Anxiety0:06:23 Nurturing Growth and Embracing Acceptance0:12:43 Embracing Anxiety for Personal Growth0:13:25 Mindfulness Practices for Handling Anxiety and Life Better0:14:16 Starting a Meditation Practice and Taking Small StepsSummaryWelcome 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat 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. WeemsChapters0:00:24 Introduction to the concept of a meditation anchor0:01:20 Purpose and benefits of using an anchor in meditation0:02:07 Different types of anchors, focusing on the breath0:03:10 Other potential anchors: body sensations, sounds, visuals, mantras, etc.0:04:13 Importance of using a meditation anchor and its benefits0:05:05 Introduction to Breathing Anchor Practice of Mindfulness0:06:06 Settling into a Comfortable Position for Meditation0:07:03 Focus on the Physical Sensations of Breathing0:08:51 The Goal of Mindfulness: Observing the Present Moment0:09:45 Stepping Back and Observing Yourself0:10:03 Embracing Inner Experience: Finding Balance0:10:28 Tuning into our Inner Experience0:11:18 Gaining insight through detachment from thoughts and feelings0:12:16 Observing the shifting nature of thoughts and ideas0:12:53 Focusing on the Sensations and Movements of the Breath0:13:32 The Power of Anchoring in the Present Moment0:14:19 Using the Breath as Your Anchor0:15:19 Succeeding in the practice of remaining with the breath0:15:47 Finding Focus Through Breath Awareness0:16:53 Gratitude for the Practice0:17:01 Finding Strength in Centeredness and FocusSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat 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 FordChapters0:00:24 Welcome back to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast.0:01:29 Understanding the Different Presentations of Anxiety0:03:51 The Evolution of Anxiety Disorders in Diagnostic Manuals0:05:12 The Importance of Calming the Nervous System0:06:40 Exploring the Six Common Anxiety Disorders and Their Meanings0:08:39 Compassionate Exposure for Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia0:09:52 Overcoming Social Anxiety Disorder with Compassion0:11:00 Navigating Specific Phobias with Compassionate Exposure0:11:58 Wrestling with Intrusive Thoughts in OCD Treatment0:13:26 Understanding General Anxiety Disorder0:14:59 Managing Generalized Anxiety Disorder through mindfulness and cognitive restructuringSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.– Wayne DyerChapters0:00:24 Finding Peace and Calm: Exploring Compassion and Action0:00:54 Dealing with Other People's Anxiety: Introduction0:02:24 Checklist for Navigating Anxiety in Relationships0:10:42 Handling Boss's Anxiety: Professionalism and Self-Care0:13:52 Maintaining Professionalism and Setting Boundaries0:15:16 Suggesting Solutions and Redirecting the Focus0:16:11 Leading by Example and Seeking Guidance for Wellbeing0:18:16 Seeking Support and Professional Help for Work Stress0:19:36 Practicing New Responses for Improved Mental Well-beingSummaryIn 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/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 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.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program Learn more about our One-on-One CoachingWhat is anxiety?Quote:It’s not a matter of letting go -you would do that if you could. Instead of “let go,” we should probably say “let it be.”-Jon Kabat-ZinnChapters0:00:24 Exploring the Spectrum of Thoughts0:02:07 Escaping the Wormhole of Negative Thinking0:04:54 Finding Balance in Neutral Mindfulness0:09:36 Moving from Negative to Neutral and Positive States0:11:05 The Power of Acceptance and Neutral Thinking0:13:07 Embracing a Sunny Disposition and Positive OutlookSummaryIn 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/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.