Anxiety Rx

Russell Kennedy
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Apr 1, 2025 • 1h

114. Exploring the Connection Between Anxiety, Inflammation, and Gut Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective

Alright, folks, buckle up because in this episode of Anxiety Rx, I sit down with the brilliant Dr. Shivani Gupta to dive deep into the ancient magic of Ayurveda—and trust me, it’s way more than just turmeric lattes and yoga poses. We’re talking real-deal wisdom that’s been around for thousands of years, and guess what? It’s got some serious solutions for our modern struggles, like anxiety, inflammation, and gut health (yes, your gut is basically running the show). Dr. Gupta and I chat about why turmeric is the ultimate anti-inflammatory MVP, how small self-care rituals can make a big difference, and why what you eat can totally mess with—or massively improve—your mental health. Plus, she shares her own journey with Ayurveda and how it’s transformed her life. So, if you’re looking for practical, science-backed ways to feel better and stress less, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it! Thank you for listening, and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd P.S. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRXTo dive deeper into Dr. Gupta’s work, here’s where you can find her:https://shivanigupta.com/ ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Ayurveda and Inflammation 02:55 The Connection Between Gut Health and Anxiety 05:50 Turmeric: The Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse 08:51 Practical Tips for Incorporating Turmeric 11:54 The Role of Ayurveda in Mental Health 14:56 Personal Reflections on Fear and Growth 18:00 Understanding Inflammation and Its Impact 21:13 Ayurveda's Holistic Approach to Health 23:59 Grounding Meals and Nutrition for Vata Types 26:57 Sleep Hygiene and Its Importance 30:10 Creativity as a Tool for Managing Anxiety 31:22 Understanding Vata Imbalances and Their Remedies 35:59 The Role of Curcumin in Health 41:34 Challenges in Modern Medicine 44:36 Self-Care and Daily Rituals 50:51 Exercise and Ayurveda: Finding Balance 55:53 The Importance of Nourishment and Self-Love
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6 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 59min

113. How Can Somatic Approaches Transform Your Healing Journey from Anxiety and Trauma?

Join Britt Piper, author of 'Body First Healing' and expert in somatic experiencing, as she unveils the secrets of physical awareness in healing anxiety and trauma. She discusses how the nervous system shapes our emotional lives and the concept of 'functional freeze' that complicates relationships. Dive into the transformative power of interoception and learn the importance of choosing safety and embracing discomfort for true healing. Britt also shares her personal journey and practical tools for reconnecting with your authentic self.
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Mar 10, 2025 • 20min

112. Rewiring Anxiety: How to Use Neuroplasticity for Lasting Change

Hey gang! In today’s episode of Anxiety Rx, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics: neuroplasticity—a fancy word for your brain’s ability to change (yes, even if it feels permanently stuck in anxiety mode). I’ll break down neuroplasticity’s role in how anxiety gets hardwired into your brain—thanks to some rough childhood experiences—and, more importantly, how we can use it to rewire it for peace. My Mind-Body Prescription (MBRx) method shifts the focus from just “thinking your way out of anxiety” to actually feeling your way through it. I’ll walk you through practical steps to break the alarm anxiety cycle, and recognize your body’s anxiety patterns. Bottom line? Anxiety is NOT a life sentence. You’re not broken, and you’re not doomed to feel like this forever. Healing is absolutely possible, and I’m here to show you how. 🎧 Press play and let’s do this! Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Understanding Neuroplasticity and Anxiety 04:38 The Role of the Body in Healing 06:59 Rewiring the Brain with MBRX Method 09:46 Breaking the Alarm Anxiety Cycle 12:30 Overcoming Resistance to Change
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Mar 3, 2025 • 1h 3min

111. The Hidden Costs of Loneliness: Why Connection is Essential for Mental Health

Welcome back everyone! In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into the power of connection with my guest, psychologist Dr. Adam Dorsay. Adam and I unpack how modern life isn’t exactly helping—our society is more “connected” than ever (hello, social media), yet we’re lonelier and more anxious. We talk about why emotional literacy is key, how early trauma (especially for men) can make it hard to express feelings, and why stuffing emotions down like an overpacked suitcase never really works. We also get into the good stuff—what actually helps. Think: activities that get you into a flow state, the unconditional love of pets, and simple ways to build real, meaningful connections. Plus, Adam shares some gems from his book Super Psyched that you won’t want to miss. So if anxiety has been your unwanted sidekick, this episode is for you. Let’s break the cycle—one real connection at a time. Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX To explore more of Dr. Dorsay’s work, check out the links below: https://dradamdorsay.com Instagram: @dradamdorsay ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS  00:00 Introduction to Anxiety and Connection 02:58 The Importance of Connection in Healing 05:52 Men, Competition, and Connection 08:57 Emotional Literacy and Its Impact on Men 11:56 The Cycle of Pain and Connection 14:58 Authenticity and Self-Connection 17:53 Connecting with Others and the World 21:06 Faith, Trust, and Overcoming Trauma 24:02 Cultural Insights on Connection 26:55 The Role of Banter and Flow in Connection 33:43 The Dynamics of Connection and Conflict 34:56 The Role of Substances in Emotional Connection 35:52 Navigating Medication and Emotional Numbness 36:49 Personal Growth Through Medication and Therapy 38:21 The Impact of Trauma on Sensitivity 39:00 The Importance of Perceived Support 40:54 Loneliness and Its Consequences 41:59 Understanding Sensitivity and Resilience 43:50 The Power of Connection in Healing 46:28 Finding Faith in Uncertainty 48:01 The Dangers of Doom Scrolling 49:25 Creating More Than We Consume 52:08 Listening to Our Inner Child 55:16 The Healing Power of Pets 58:49 The Role of Music and Flow in Connection 01:01:56 Finding Your Flow and Connection
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31 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 53min

110. The Power of Curiosity in Overcoming Anxiety with Dr. Martha Beck

In this enlightening chat, Dr. Martha Beck, a Harvard-trained sociologist and bestselling author, reveals how overthinking amplifies anxiety and explores the neurological roots of fear. She emphasizes curiosity and self-compassion as key tools for healing. The conversation touches on the societal pressures that shape our emotions and the healing power of creative expression. Dr. Beck encourages listeners to embrace their feelings, practice kind self-talk, and recognize anxiety as a necessary alarm, paving the way for inner peace and resilience.
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Feb 17, 2025 • 1h

109. Navigating the Storm: Kendra Fisher's Journey from Anxiety to Empowerment

Hey Everyone! Welcome back. Today on Anxiety Rx Podcast I talk with former ice hockey goaltender and mental health advocate Kendra Fisher. We share our personal battles with anxiety and the paths we've taken toward healing. Kendra opens up about how a car accident intensified her anxiety, leading her to seek various treatments and eventually find solace in somatic therapies. As a clinical neuroscientist, I discuss the limitations of traditional cognitive therapies and emphasize the importance of addressing the physiological roots of anxiety. Together, we highlight the significance of community, resilience, and embracing vulnerability in managing mental health. Our conversation offers hope and practical insights for those struggling with anxiety, I hope you enjoy it. Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX You can find Kendra on most social platforms as @kfisher30 ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction to the Podcast 0:42 Kendra's Background 2:19 Car Accident Impact 3:09 Struggles with Anxiety 4:00 Team Canada Tryouts 5:33 The Illusion of Success 6:49 Journey to Diagnosis 8:13 Learning to Cope 10:14 Accountability in Support 10:56 The Tactical Advantage of Anxiety 12:23 Navigating Grief and Loss 19:09 Surrendering Control 21:12 The Role of Hockey 23:12 Kendra's Struggle with Anxiety 23:27 Vulnerability and Acceptance 24:03 The Illusion of Quick Fixes 25:04 Familiarity and Security 26:13 Coping Strategies and Their Consequences 27:17 Embracing Anxiety 28:16 Childhood Trauma and Healing 29:42 Physiological Responses to Anxiety 32:41 The Role of the Amygdala 33:59 Healing Through Understanding 34:01 Neurobiological Wiring of Anxiety 34:25 Exposure Therapy Insights 35:15 Virtual Reality in Therapy 36:41 Tangible Healing Methods 38:18 Somatic Experience and Release 38:25 Feeling Structure vs. Cognitive Strategies 42:27 Rewriting Childhood Narratives 44:21 The Role of Responsibility in Healing 45:14 Critique of Cognitive Therapy 46:05 Personal Experience with Grief 48:13 Processing Grief and Anxiety 49:12 Adversity and Resilience 50:33 Fear vs. Anxiety 51:39 Value of Suffering 52:39 Avoidance in Coping 56:32 Creating Safe Spaces 57:02 The Importance of Community 58:42 Support vs. Fixing 59:32 Finding Kendra Fisher
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Feb 11, 2025 • 38min

108. The Ripple Effect: How One Person's Authenticity Can Inspire a Community of Healing

Today I sit down with mental health influencer Ryan Primer and his Grandma, Donna, for a heartfelt conversation about his anxiety journey. We explore the intertwined struggles of anxiety and addiction, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. Ryan shares his tumultuous journey through addiction, marked by relapses and a pivotal moment of clarity that led him to seek help. Grandma Donna and I highlight the crucial role of faith and support systems in recovery, and our conversation underscores the power of human connection and self-compassion in navigating mental health challenges, which offers you a message of hope and resilience. Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX You can find Ryan on Instagram and TikTok @youranxietyislying2yew ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 0:00  Introduction and Guests 0:56  Ryan's Motivation 1:34  Challenges of Anxiety 2:37  Dr. Russ's Medical School Experience 3:30  Choosing Content to Share 4:29  Facing Social Anxiety 5:34  Benevolent Self-Talk 6:30  Physical Cues for Anxiety 8:15  Fear of Anxiety 9:43  Welcoming Panic Attacks 10:50  Breathing Techniques 11:24  Social Interactions and Anxiety 12:11  Anxiety's Impact on Identity 13:13  Connection Between Adult and Child Selves 14:21  Success Despite Anxiety 15:04  Grandma's Support 16:33  Addiction and Connection 18:29  Overcoming Alcoholism 19:44  Planning Relapse and Rehab 20:41  Turning Point 21:14  The Role of Prayer 21:50  Loss of Faith 22:48  Intention in Prayer 23:28  Burden of Control 24:38  Human Connection 25:28  The Energy of Money 26:45  Addiction and Change 27:17  Hitting Rock Bottom 28:02  Rehab and Personal Choice 28:51  Finding Connection in AA 29:36  The Danger of Isolation 31:03  Social Engagement System 32:37  Environmental Cues for Anxiety 33:28  The Challenge of Seeking Connection 34:51  Influencer Impact 36:27  Helping Others vs. Self-Care
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Feb 3, 2025 • 51min

107. Healing Through Pain: A Mind-Body Journey

Hello everyone! In this episode of the Anxiety Rx podcast, I sit down with Nicole Sachs, LCSW, to explore the deep connection between chronic pain, emotional trauma, and the mind-body relationship. We share our personal journeys through pain and healing, emphasizing how understanding the emotional roots of physical symptoms is key to true recovery. Throughout our conversation, we highlight the power of curiosity, self-compassion, and community in the healing process, while also addressing the challenges of resistance and the importance of living awake—making conscious, empowered choices in our journey toward healing. Thank you for listening, and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX To dive deeper into Nicole’s work and explore her approach to healing chronic pain, check out these resources:Her new bookFreedom From Chronic Pain Course______________________________TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Personal Journeys of Healing 04:36 The Impact of Chronic Pain on Life 09:36 Understanding the Mind-Body Connection 14:24 The Role of Emotional Trauma in Physical Pain 19:04 Resistance and Curiosity in Healing 24:01 The Choice Between Pain and Healing 29:13 Empowerment Through Acknowledgment 29:52 The Neuroscience of Worry and Pain 30:52 Navigating Anxiety and Emotions 32:26 The Cycle of Worry and Familiarity 33:51 Living in Solutions, Not Problems 36:07 The Power of Personal Stories 37:55 Agency in Healing and Transformation 39:43 Facing Pain: Choices and Agency 41:54 Chronic Pain as a Path to Growth 43:43 Sensation Without Explanation 45:28 The Human Stories Behind Healing 48:52 Finding Connection and Community
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Jan 28, 2025 • 56min

106. The Mind-Heart Connection: How Anxiety Shapes Our Physical Well-Being

In this episode of the Anxiety Rx podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Jonathan Fisher about the profound connection between anxiety, emotional health, and physical well-being, particularly in the field of cardiology. Dr. Fisher, a cardiologist and author, delves into the often-overlooked emotional aspects of heart health that are not typically emphasized in medical training. As someone who has battled severe anxiety myself, I share my journey toward alternative medicine and critique conventional approaches for merely treating symptoms. Together, Dr. Fisher and I advocate for a holistic healthcare approach that addresses emotional roots and promotes compassion, empathy, and systemic changes to support both providers and patients. Thank you for listening, and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX ___________________________TIMESTAMPS   00:00 - Introduction to the Episode01:00 - Welcome Dr. Fisher01:31 - Breaking from Mainstream Medicine02:49 - Personal Story of Anxiety03:45 - The Left Hemisphere Hall of Mirrors05:04 - Science-Based Therapy Critique05:33 - Observer of Thoughts09:55 - Conflict with Self10:14 - Addiction to Worry12:36 - Rethinking Health13:07 - The Role of Spirit in Healing14:14 - Curiosity and Mindfulness17:13 - Understanding Emotions vs. Feelings18:01 - Paving Negativity19:14 - Understanding Age Regression20:07 - Healing Through Compassion22:10 - The "Should" Acronym23:54 - Attachment Theory and Self-Love26:33 - The Role of the Default Mode Network28:38 - Psychedelics and Self-Discovery33:12 - Healing Requires Support34:45 - Attention and Life Experience35:21 - Becoming the Observer36:45 - Metabolizing Emotional Pain38:26 - Understanding Anxiety and Healing39:06 - Childhood Issues and Chronic Illness39:26 - Changing Medical Ethos40:01 - Mind-Heart Connection in Medicine40:18 - Empathy and Compassion in Medical Education41:44 - Erosion of Empathy in Medicine42:45 - Factors Affecting Compassion43:58 - Self-Compassion Practices44:07 - Connection Over Division44:54 - Internal Constructs and Compassion45:57 - Social Engagement System46:46 - Scientific Basis for Compassion48:05 - Addressing Burnout in Healthcare49:04 - External vs. Internal Factors50:04 - Compassion as a Financial Concern51:01 - Cultural Differences in Healthcare51:53 - Managing Suffering in Life52:03 - The Challenge of Modern Medicine54:43 - Historical Wisdom in Medicine55:02 - Motivation Beyond Anger
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Jan 8, 2025 • 22min

105. How Can We Cultivate a Sense of Safety to Overcome Anxiety?

In this episode of the Anxiety RX Podcast, we dive into the fundamental concept of safety. I share personal stories about my father's struggles with mental health during the holidays and how these experiences left me feeling unsafe and on edge as a child. Feeling safe is such an important part of healing from anxiety, so I talk about ways to create that sense of safety for yourself. I include simple but effective strategies like mindful breathing and self-soothing techniques. More than anything, I want to remind listeners that healing takes time and effort, but it’s possible to find those small moments of safety and start easing the constant state of hypervigilance. Thank you for listening, and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction to Safety01:02 - Childhood Experiences of Unsafety02:02 - The Importance of Feeling Safe04:13 - Hypervigilance and Its Impact06:25 - Creating Safety in the Body10:08 - The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System11:10 - Connection and Safety12:33 - Developing a Sense of Safety15:44 - Addressing Childhood Trauma16:55 - Using the Mind to Acknowledge Safety17:57 - Overcoming Hypervigilance19:10 - Practical Ways to Create Safety20:20 - Creating a Sense of Safety21:21 - Daily Practices for Safety21:21 - Reversing Childhood Coping Strategies22:33 - Small Steps to Safety  

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