

Home-Body
Anna the Anxiety Coach
Welcome to the Home-Body podcast with Anna the Anxiety Coach, your trusted counsellor, coach, author, and anxiety specialist. Join us for insightful conversations on the human experience, as we explore the authentic challenges that life throws our way. In this show, we peel back the layers, delving deep into the raw and real aspects of our journey.
Prepare to open the door to self-discovery and reconnect with your body like never before. Anna will be your guide, providing actionable and effective steps to help you find your way back to your body's natural rhythm. No matter where you are on your path, our discussions will empower you to embrace your inner Home-Body.
Tune in for valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tools to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Discover the keys to a more harmonious life, right here on the Home-Body podcast. Let's dive into the show and begin your transformative journey together.
Prepare to open the door to self-discovery and reconnect with your body like never before. Anna will be your guide, providing actionable and effective steps to help you find your way back to your body's natural rhythm. No matter where you are on your path, our discussions will empower you to embrace your inner Home-Body.
Tune in for valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tools to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Discover the keys to a more harmonious life, right here on the Home-Body podcast. Let's dive into the show and begin your transformative journey together.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 16min
Fascia: Your Bodies Internet System
Explore the fascinating world of fascia, often described as the body's 'internet system.' Discover how this interconnected web processes emotions and stores trauma, impacting both physical and emotional health. Learn about gentle movement techniques and breathwork that can help release emotional tension. Understand why fascia has memory and how it protects you. Dive into case studies that illustrate the link between trauma and bodily sensations, emphasizing that your fascia isn't broken; it's doing its job.

May 18, 2025 • 20min
The Somatic Side of Boundaries
Download Somatic Side of Boundaries Worksheet (FREE) https://annatheanxietycoach.myflodesk.com/gsqj4seoj8
In this video, we're diving into the somatic side of boundaries, exploring how our nervous system, interoception, and emotional health are intertwined with our ability to set and maintain healthy limits.
We'll discuss how people pleasing habits and patterns can be a result of unresolved trauma, and how developing interoceptive awareness can be a powerful tool for building self-respect and self-care.
By understanding the somatic roots of boundary setting, we can begin to heal and regulate our nervous system, leading to improved mental health and emotional wellness.
Whether you're looking to break free from people pleasing or simply want to cultivate healthier relationships, this video will provide you with a deeper understanding of the somatic side of boundaries and how it can transform your life.
By tuning into your body's wisdom and developing interoceptive skills, you can learn to set boundaries that honor your needs and promote a deeper sense of self-respect.
So, if you're ready to explore the somatic side of boundaries and start building healthier relationships, keep watching!
Key takeaways
- Somatic boundaries are felt in the body, not just mental rules.
- The body communicates boundary cues through physical sensations.
- Poor boundaries can lead to chronic fatigue and emotional distress.
- Boundaries are a nervous system issue, linked to feelings of safety.
- Interoception is crucial for recognizing bodily signals.
- Practicing embodied boundaries strengthens self-containment.
- Clear communication is essential for setting boundaries.
- Guilt is a common hurdle when establishing boundaries.
- Discomfort in setting boundaries is a sign of growth.
- You are allowed to take up space and say no.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Somatic Boundaries
02:58 Understanding Somatic Boundaries
06:13 The Nervous System and Boundaries
09:05 Interoception and Body Awareness
12:29 Practicing Boundaries Through the Body
14:57 Overcoming Guilt in Boundary Setting
17:52 Recap and Conclusion
Connect with Anna:
- Instagram @annatheanxietycoach
- Website www.annatheanxietycoach.com

5 snips
May 11, 2025 • 7min
When Rest Feels Unsafe - The Hidden Cost of Constant Doing
In a world obsessed with productivity, the struggle to rest can spark anxiety. The discussion reveals how constant doing creates a false sense of safety, leading to a dysregulated nervous system. Small 'micropauses' are suggested to ease into stillness, paired with comforting cues for safety. Cultural guilt surrounding rest is tackled, reframing it as a biological necessity rather than laziness. Listeners are encouraged to integrate scheduled pauses into daily routines to foster mental wellness and alleviate stress.

May 7, 2025 • 7min
Touch Starved - The Somatic Impact of Not Being Held
In today's world, where social isolation and disconnection are on the rise, the importance of human touch cannot be overstated.
When we're deprived of nurturing touch, it can have a profound impact on our physical and emotional well-being, leading to what's commonly known as "touch starvation."
This somatic crisis can manifest in a range of ways, from anxiety and depression to chronic pain and fatigue. In this video, we'll explore the somatic impact of not being held and the role that therapeutic touch can play in our emotional healing.
We'll delve into the science behind social touch and its effects on our mental health, and discuss nurturing practices that can help us reconnect with ourselves and others.
By examining the connection crisis and its effects on our bodies and minds, we can begin to heal and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships. Join us as we explore the power of touch and its potential to transform our lives.
Key takeaways:
- Touch is a biological need, not a luxury.
- Safe touch is essential for emotional well-being.
- Affection deprivation can lead to depression and anxiety.
- Recognising signs of touch deprivation is crucial.
- Self-soothing practices can help meet the need for touch.
- Quality of touch is more important than quantity.
- It's okay to want to be held and connected.
- Cultural conditioning often leads to touch deprivation.
- Touch is vital for co-regulation and safety.
- You are not alone in your need for connection.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Touch in Human Connection
02:59 Understanding Touch Hunger and Affection Deprivation
05:57 The Biological Need for Touch
09:18 Reconnecting with the Body through Self-Touch
11:12 Embracing the Need for Connection

9 snips
Apr 27, 2025 • 10min
Climbing the Ladder of Safety
Explore the fascinating Polyvagal Theory and its three states: dorsal vagal shutdown, sympathetic activation, and ventral vagal safety. Understand how these states interact and the importance of transitioning between them for trauma healing. Discover practical tools like gentle movements, grounding techniques, and daily routines to build resilience. Anna emphasizes patience and self-compassion throughout the healing journey, while also highlighting the nice moments that enhance feelings of safety and joy.

7 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 13min
Why You Should Regulate Your Mornings (Benefits of Routine)
Discover how nurturing a morning routine can elevate your well-being. Learn the significance of natural light for regulating your mood and circadian rhythm. Explore gentle movements that improve body awareness and signify safety. Understand the vital role of hydration and electrolytes in calming your nervous system. Plus, dive into breathwork techniques to activate relaxation. Finally, implement a straightforward three-step morning reset for lasting tranquility and productivity throughout the day!

5 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 13min
The Freeze Response: When You Can't Move Forward
Feeling stuck? Discover the freeze response, a primal reaction to perceived threats that leads to emotional paralysis. Explore triggers like overwhelm and burnout, and learn about behavioral signs such as procrastination and numbness. Awareness is key to break free, and gentle movements can re-engage your body. Co-regulation with trusted individuals helps, while small, safe steps pave the way to healing. Understand the nervous system to regain control and move forward with confidence.

Apr 14, 2025 • 58min
The Science of Cold Plunge Therapy
Dive into the world of cold plunge therapy, a natural and alternative approach to wellness that's gaining popularity among athletes and individuals seeking a mental and physical edge.
Discover the science behind this recovery method, which involves immersing yourself in icy cold water to induce thermal stress, stimulate cryotherapy, and boost your immune system. By incorporating cold plunges into your wellness ritual, you can experience mood enhancement, stress relief, and increased mental toughness.
Explore how cold water therapy can be used as a natural energizer, and learn how endurance training and adaptation training can help your body adapt to the cold, leading to improved overall health and resilience.
Whether you're an athlete looking to optimize your performance or simply seeking a natural way to improve your well-being, this video will uncover the fascinating world of cold plunge therapy and its benefits.
Takeaways
- Resilience is rooted in human ingenuity and adaptive capacity.
- Adversity can lead to greater confidence and competence.
- Cognitive reframing is essential for mental health.
- Cold exposure can improve insulin sensitivity and metabolism.
- Brown fat plays a crucial role in metabolic health.
- Individual experiences with cold exposure vary significantly.
- Safety is paramount when practicing cold plunge therapy.
- Cold exposure can help with conditions like PCOS and endometriosis.
- Listening to your body is key in cold exposure practices.
- The benefits of cold exposure extend beyond physical health to mental well-being.
About Thomas P Seager:
Thomas P Seager, PhD is an Associate Professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering at Arizona State University and co-Founder of the Morozko Forge ice bath company. His latest book "Uncommon Cold: The Science & Experience of Cold Plunge Therapy," describes the use of ice baths to heal from metabolic and autoimmune disorders, inhibit tumor growth, balance hormones, and improve psychological resilience.
His expertise in resilient infrastructure systems and environmental sustainability has made him a popular speaker and a consultant to the Army Corp of Engineers and the Office of Naval Research. Nonetheless, Dr. Seager's research in human resilience, leadership, entrepreneurship, organizational communication, and metabolic health have prompted him to re-organize his career around a novel concept called Self-Actual Engineering, in which he applies engineering principles to a fuller realization of human potential.
https://seagertp.substack.com/
twitter & instagram: @seagertp
email: thomas.seager@asu.edu, tpseager@morozkoforge.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cold Exposure and Resilience
02:50 Thomas Seager's Journey to Resilience
05:02 The Importance of Psychological Resilience
05:16 Adversity and the Development of Resilience
07:49 The Role of Mindset in Overcoming Challenges
11:03 Cold Exposure: A Path to Mental Health
13:41 Cognitive Reframing and Cold Therapy
16:19 Mitochondrial Health and Cold Exposure
19:23 Metabolic Dysfunction in Modern Society
22:17 The Science Behind Cold Exposure
25:20 Practical Applications of Cold Therapy
30:57 The Role of Brown Fat in Metabolism
32:16 Cold Exposure Techniques and Benefits
35:52 Understanding Cold Exposure: Duration and Temperature
39:19 Gender Differences in Cold Exposure
43:28 Listening to Your Body: Individual Responses to Cold
49:30 Safety Considerations for Cold Plunging
53:39 Reconnecting with Nature for Health Benefits
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: www.annatheanxietycoach.com

Mar 30, 2025 • 29min
Exploring Joy, Vulnerability, and Mindfulness with Fleur Chambers | Duality of Emotions, confidence
In this episode of the Homebody Podcast, Anna Papaioannou sits down with Fleur Chambers, an internationally recognised mindfulness teacher, author, and social entrepreneur.
Together, they explore the complexities of joy, vulnerability, and the duality of emotions. They discuss how societal expectations often hinder our ability to embrace joy and the importance of mindfulness in cultivating a more joyful life.
Fleur shares her insights on the brain's negativity bias, the role of vulnerability in experiencing joy, and how we can incorporate more joy into our daily lives.
Fleur also introduces her new book, Wholehearted Confidence, offering a refreshing approach to self-worth that moves beyond external validation and embraces a more nurturing, inclusive model of confidence.
Key Takeaways:
- Joy is often seen as fleeting, yet it can be cultivated and embraced with mindfulness.
- Vulnerability is crucial for fully experiencing joy and emotional connection.
- Societal pressures often undervalue joy and play, but mindfulness helps us appreciate it in our daily lives.
- The brain's negativity bias can make it harder to feel joy, but awareness and self-reflection can counteract this.
- Nature is a powerful tool for grounding ourselves and embracing joy.
- Embracing both joy and the contraction that follows is important for emotional balance.
- Fleur’s new book, Wholehearted Confidence, advocates for a nurturing approach to confidence and self-expression.
Sound Bites:
"Joy is a sensory experience, not just a fleeting feeling."
Chapters:
00:00 - The Nature of Joy and Its Complexities
02:31 - Embracing Vulnerability to Experience Joy
05:06 - Finding Personal Joy in Daily Life
08:04 - Understanding the Role of Negativity Bias
11:05 - Practical Ways to Cultivate Joy in Your Life
13:54 - Joy vs. Productivity: The Balance
16:31 - The Connection Between Joy and Creativity
19:25 - Perfectionism and Presence in the Journey to Joy
22:15 - Fleur’s New Book Wholehearted Confidence and Final Thoughts
Follow Fleur Chambers:
Instagram: @thehappyhabitwithfleurchambers
Website: https://www.thehappyhabit.com.au/about
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: https://annatheanxietycoach.com/

Mar 23, 2025 • 28min
Navigating Motherhood: A Personal Pregnancy and Birth Story | Self-Care, Parenting, and Emotional Health
In this episode of the Homebody Podcast, Anna Papaioannou shares her personal journey through pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood. Anna opens up about the emotional complexities of becoming a mother, discussing her experiences of pregnancy, her decision to have a home birth, and the identity shifts she navigated in the early days of parenting. She reflects on the challenges of sleep deprivation, the importance of nurturing and responsiveness in her parenting philosophy, and the vital role of community support during this transformative time.
Key Takeaways:
- Motherhood brings both curiosity and anxiety, and each pregnancy journey is deeply personal.
- Community support is essential during pregnancy and early parenting for emotional well-being.
- Preparing for pregnancy includes both physical and emotional readiness.
- The first trimester often involves anxiety and uncertainty.
- A home birth can provide a sense of control and safety, especially in an emotionally intense experience.
- Labor and childbirth can be both physically and emotionally challenging.
- Breastfeeding and co-sleeping play key roles in nurturing a newborn.
- Self-care is essential for new parents to ensure mental and emotional health.
- The shift in identity from pregnancy to parenting is a natural part of the journey.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Personal Journey
01:30 - Navigating Pregnancy and Emotions
05:36 - Preparing for Pregnancy and Fertility
10:20 - The Experience of Labor and Birth
21:34 - Parenting Philosophy and Early Challenges
27:37 - Identity Shift and Self-Care Postpartum
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: annatheanxietycoach.com


