The OCD & Anxiety Podcast

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 In the 380th episode of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, your host explores the often overlooked but deeply impactful link between procrastination and anxiety. This episode delves into how the struggle of putting things off and waiting for the 'perfect time' to act can exacerbate anxiety and OCD, further disrupting daily living. Discussion points include understanding anxiety-induced procrastination, identifying both obvious and non-obvious areas of procrastination in your life, and how the idea of perfectionism can often lead to avoidance and further anxiety. The conversation also spotlights the importance of acceptance and the powerful role it plays in the process of managing anxiety. The episode winds up with a valuable insight into how deflecting difficult emotions can lead to unhealthy behaviors like obsessive-compulsive tendencies and procrastination. Moreover, it highlights the benefits of getting in touch with our emotions and body sensations for a healthier approach towards dealing with anxiety. Whether you are a long-time sufferer of anxiety or OCD, or you are just beginning to explore the world of mental health, this episode offers helpful perspectives and practical steps towards understanding and dealing with procrastination linked to anxiety Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.      

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 378 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast by Robert James Coaching. We're here to help you build a more positive outlook on anxiety disorders and reclaim control to live the life you choose. This episode is devoted to sharing a self-compassion body focus meditation, a powerful tool that has played a significant role in my own journey with OCD. While everyone wants to live an authentic life, we often get trapped in our fears and obsessions dictated by OCD. We all yearn to let go and feel liberated from these persistent patterns. But the issue with OCD is finding ourselves stuck in our thoughts, going in circles with compulsions. The solution to this problem lies not in thinking, but in feeling—leaning into the discomfort and inviting self-compassion into our lives. Self-compassion is more than a buzzword in mental health, it's about accepting ourselves as we are, including our struggles, anxiety, and mistakes. It's a journey towards letting go of perfectionism and embracing acceptance. With this episode comes a guide to a meditation exercise that brings you into your body, focusing on the heart and breathing in a 'white light' of kindness and compassion. As you focus on this meditation, you'll feel a sense of peace and freedom from OCD, anxiety, and other thought patterns that keep you stuck. It's all about building self-compassion and acceptance, two powerful allies that can transform the way you manage your mental health. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out. Your journey to a healthier, happier life is just a few breaths away Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.  

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 377 of the OCD and Anxiety Podcast. This episode tackles the challenges of OCD, the persistence to break free from the entangling mindset, and the move towards a healthier mental state. Emphasizing that letting go of OCD, albeit arduous, is not impossible and adversaries could turn into accomplishments. This episode provides encouragement and supportive words to those trying to overcome limits posed by OCD and anxiety. Drawing on personal experiences and observations, the podcast sheds light on the misconceptions about OCD and the undue judgment subjected to those suffering from it. It underscores the importance of concentrating on maintaining an inner peace, regardless of external or internal criticisms and prejudices. By tackling the often overlooked aspect of OCD- the relentless mental labor that goes behind maintaining a semblance of normality, this episode offers a profound understanding of the disorder. It underlines the extraordinary grit, determination, and tireless work individuals with OCD put in daily. As the episode evolves, it navigates the difficult road to replacing old, harmful habits with healthier coping mechanisms. It emphasizes learning to accept setbacks and mistakes as part of the recovery process rather than signs of weakness. Ultimately, this episode reassures that while hurdles exist, progress may come with detours, and life may not always be beautiful, it is still worth fighting for and living to the fullest. It encourages reorienting your focus away from perfection and towards small, consistent actions that lead to self-improvement and living in harmony with one's values. Combining understanding and empathy with real-world experience, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies to those grappling with OCD and anxiety. Join us on this journey to better mental health, a gradual but invaluable process, bringing you one step closer to living the life you want. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.        

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 376 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast by Robert James Coaching, where we discuss strategies to foster a healthier relationship with anxiety disorders and push past the boundaries that fear has imposed on us. In today's episode, we delve into overcoming limiting beliefs, specifically those revolving around OCD. We explore not only directly confronting these beliefs but also an indirect approach of tackling them. This involves embarking on journeys we previously thought were impossible, thereby proving our self-imposed limitations wrong. Discussing the theories of renown psychologist Carl Jung, we probe the harmful impacts of black and white thinking, emphasizing that the embrace of "grey" areas is pivotal to fighting OCD. We touch on practical techniques such as the Wim Hof method of cold exposure, encouraging you to challenge your fears in a safe and responsible way. Also recounted is a personal journey of learning to juggle as an example of a challenging but achievable task that helps break disabling beliefs about one's abilities. This episode is peppered with insights aiming to inspire listeners to question their own limiting beliefs and consider activities or skills they have always found daunting. The main message is to break down problems into manageable tasks and relish the empowering sense of accomplishment once achieved. Remember, we are not victims of OCD but have the ability to overcome it with a dash of discomfort, determination, and dedication. References  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10392899/ Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.      

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 375 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, hosted by Robert James Coaching. This episode provides actionable strategies on managing OCD and anxiety, with a particular emphasis on developing a healthier relationship with these disorders. Learn three effective strategies designed to diminish obsessive ruminations and make choices not guided by fear but by personal values. If you’re grappling with OCD or anxiety, seize the opportunity of a free session with Robert to start regaining control. Taking a cue from Virginia Woolf's profound quote, “You cannot find peace by avoiding life", this episode motivates listeners to face discomfort and uncertainty head-on, rather than shying away from them. Outstanding progress against anxiety disorders is often achieved by allowing tough emotions to surface while simultaneously contributing to regular life activities. The podcast delves into the significance of mindful living as a vehicle towards peace. To aid understanding, Robert presents an approach that involves engaging in ordinary activities with utmost focus and spending time connected to nature. By sharing personal experiences and tips on integrating mindfulness into daily activities, this episode arms you with the tools to break free from the exhausting cycle of rumination. The episode concludes with a strong endorsement of spending quality time in nature and its proven benefits for mental health. Alongside mindfulness practice, appreciating the simplicity and beauty of nature can significantly bolster mental well-being. The strategies outlined in this episode aim to help listeners manage daily anxieties and obsessive thoughts by promoting mindfulness and present-moment focus. By engaging in valued activities, practicing 'postponement' of thoughts, and retraining our focus, the episode provides practical methods to manage obsessive thoughts and compulsions more effectively. For additional support and further discussion on these strategies, make use of the available resources, including the Patreon community. Remember, this guidance is not meant to replace professional mental health advice, so stay tuned in for more practical strategies and tips targeting OCD and anxiety Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.          

Exploring the realities of living with OCD, challenges faced daily, self-discovery journey, role of anxiety as a signal, importance of recognizing victories in the battle against OCD.

Delving into the significance of enjoying life amidst OCD and anxiety, the podcast explores how structured fun activities can promote mental health. It discusses the benefits of leisure activities for managing obsessions and compulsions, emphasizing the importance of 'flow' state. By incorporating more joy into daily life, individuals can reconnect with their true selves and alleviate anxiety-inducing thoughts.

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 In episode 372 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, Robert James shares his v insights on how breath work can serve as a powerful tool to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. Drawing from his personal journey and professional wisdom, he explores the transformative potential of breath control in disrupting cycles of anxiety and obsessive rumination. Robert broaches the subject from a unique perspective, asserting that optimal breathing routines can remarkably ameliorate life quality. He expounds on the pivotal role of proper breathing in helping us concentrate on our goals, values, and passions, rather than dodging fears and worries. A centerpiece of the episode is Robert's explanation of how to shift focus from trying to eradicate discomforting thoughts to anchoring ourselves in the present using our breath. He provides expert tips on various mindfulness techniques and meditation disciplines, urging listeners to make breathwork a part of their daily routines to boost their overall well-being. Notably, the episode enriches listeners with helpful resources, practical breathing exercises, and motivational quotes to help them integrate breathwork seamlessly into their schedules. This leads towards fostering a healthier, less anxious life. This episode also delves into the potential benefits of famed breathwork methods like the Wim Hof Method. While shedding light on its calming effects and anti-inflammatory properties, Robert graciously reminds the audience to always follow safety guidelines to prevent adverse side-effects like dizziness or fainting. In conclusion, listeners are treated to the exciting prospect of reclaiming their lives from anxiety and OCD through these simple, yet ground-breaking breathing techniques. Still, listeners are reminded to approach the information as supplementary resources and not as replacements for professional medical or mental health advice. References https://www.wimhofmethod.com/science https://www.verywellmind.com/abdominal-breathing-2584115 https://www.mindful.org/everyday-mindfulness-with-jon-kabat-zinn/ Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.            

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 371 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast – the treasure trove of striking insights, and empowering knowledge on dealing with OCD and Anxiety. Today, we embark on an exploration journey, aiming to comprehend the positive implications of exercising on our mental health. We delve into a recently published research study undertaken by Australia’s leading university. The promising study lends credibility to the fact that physical activities have profound effects on tackling disorders like anxiety and depression. We decode the findings of this research, expounding on how the inclusion of physical activities in treatment plans can lead to remarkable improvements. Focusing on my personal experiences, I elucidate the advantages of regular exercising when dealing with OCD. Physical exercise, while it may not be a complete solution, plays a crucial role in altering our hormonal responses, changing our mindset, and, most importantly, making us embrace life with a lighter perspective. These beneficial impacts of regular exercising help us to effectively deal with the whirls of OCD. Moreover, we highlight the results of an extensive meta-analysis undertaken by the University of South Australia that included over 100,000 participants. The study underscores the potency of physical activities in alleviating the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and distress. More importantly, it advocates for the adoption of exercising as a primary treatment for these disorders. The research establishes that even short-term workouts can bring about significant changes. It points out that high-intensity workouts generate better improvements in depression and anxiety, while medium-length exercises tend to have more effective results compared to long-duration ones. The research emphasizes that variations of exercising - incorporating activities like walking, resistance training, pilates, or yoga - can all contribute to enhancing mental health. As we arrive at the end of this exploration journey, the realization dawns upon us that while exercises may not be the ultimate panacea, they indeed make the symptoms of OCD easier to manage. They bring positivity, elevate confidence, and subdue anxiety levels, thus equipping us better to confront and overcome the challenges thrust upon us by OCD. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that any decision to incorporate exercises should be preceded by a discussion with your doctor or healthcare expert. It’s pivotal to combine exercising with the ongoing medical treatments, rather than considering it as an alternative. Always remember, every step towards regular exercising is a step towards better mental health. REFERENCES https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/18/1203 https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2023/exercise-more-effective-than-medicines-to-manage-mental-health/ https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/02/230223193417.htm Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.        

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Stand tall against the 'Comparisons' thief that steals your joy. In episode 370 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, we delve into the world of OCD and how comparisons might aggravate the condition. Discover the negative influence of your inner critic's constant nagging and judgment, often centered around comparison, and learn to lessen its controlling grip. From the host's personal experiences and observations to Theodore Roosevelt's wise words, "Comparison is the thief of joy," we embark on a journey, understanding how comparison can mar self-esteem and escalate anxiety disorders or OCD. Furthermore, we spotlight the divisive role social media often plays, exploiting your vulnerabilities, and triggering exacerbating comparison habits. As we traverse through each aspect, we also focus on nurturing self-compassion as a positive counterweight to comparison. Value and learn from self-assessments without succumbing to negative self-judgment. Practice recognizing your involvement in undesirable comparisons and choose better alternatives, focusing on present moments, and spurring healthier habits. This episode aims to provide the tools to change the narrative about OCD and your life, strengthening your capacity for self-compassion, and finding joy in your unique journey. Join us to break free from the chains of comparisons and live life on your terms. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.