In today's episode, Gina discusses some of the most important solutions for overcoming anxiety's interference with our sleep. From alcohol moderation or elimination, to caffeine elimination and late-night screen time and other blue light elimination, these tips will help you get back to a regular sleep pattern! Listen in and begin to reclaim your healthy sleep starting tonight!

Stillpoint Fridays is my once-a-week Friday note — a slower, more personal reflection that’s different from what I share on the podcast.

If you’d like a quiet place to land as the week winds down, you can join here: http://eepurl.com/bR2F9P or on our website anxietycoachespodcast.com and sign up for the newsletter.

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our community Group Coaching Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

1:1 Coaching Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

If you prefer to listen AD-FREE, try our Supercast premium access membership:

Learn more about anxiety What is anxiety?

Free Guided Meditation for Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Quote:

Try not to resist the changes that come your way. Instead, let life live through you.

-Rumi

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Rest and Safety

2:10 The Paradox of Anxiety

3:55 Everyday Stimulants and Sleep

6:22 Signals for Better Sleep

8:03 Closing Rituals for Rest

14:16 Embracing Sleep as Safety

15:57 Final Thoughts and Rumi's Wisdom

Summary

In this episode, I delve into the intricate relationship between anxiety, rest, and sleep. We often think of rest as the body’s response to fatigue, yet it’s crucial to understand that real rest and restorative sleep occur when our bodies feel safe—not merely when we force ourselves to wind down. I explore the all-too-common experience of feeling exhausted yet wired, where anxiety heightens our mental alertness, leaving our bodies unable to relax. This paradox can lead to self-blame, where we tell ourselves that we’re failing at sleep or lacking discipline. It’s essential to reframe this perspective; sleep isn’t a moral obligation but rather a state of the nervous system that reacts to our environment.

Anxiety tends to keep our nervous systems in a constant state of hyper-alertness, prompting feelings of exhaustion coupled with restlessness. Our bodies become conditioned to link stillness with vulnerability, resulting in an inability to let go of that constant readiness. When it comes time to sleep, our bodies fail to transition smoothly from a state of stress to calm because the hormonal responses—cortisol and adrenaline—function as if a threat is still present. I underline the irony of sleep pressure: the more we try to force sleep, the more anxious we become, activating rather than calming our nervous systems.

I emphasize that everyday stimulants like alcohol and caffeine can exacerbate these issues, disrupting an already fragile sleep quality. While alcohol may initially help with sleep onset, it often leads to fragmented slumber, particularly for those with anxious systems. Similarly, caffeine may not seem disruptive at first but can keep stress hormones elevated longer than one might realize. I encourage listeners to experiment with these substances without judgment, fostering a deeper understanding of how they affect sleep.

#AnxietyRelief #SleepHealth #NervousSystem #MentalHealthMatters #InsomniaSupport #Mindfulness #TiredButWired #SelfCompassion #StressManagement #SleepWell #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #WellnessJourney #RestIsProductive #HolisticHealing #CalmYourMind #SleepRituals #HealthyLiving #InnerPeace #MentalWellness #BedtimeRitual #SleepHygiene #StressRelief #VagusNerve #DeepSleep #CalmAndCollected #BurnoutRecovery #SleepSupport #MindBodyConnection #RelaxationMode #OvercomingAnxiety #HealingJourney #SleepBetter #NighttimeAnxiety #SelfCareDaily #HolisticWellness #NervousSystemRegulation #PeaceOfMind #EmotionalSafety #RestAndRecovery #CalmVibes #MindfulLiving #SleepMeditation #MentalHealthSupport #AnxietyRecovery #SleepTips #RechargeYourself #StressFree #InnerCalm #HealthyMindset #SleepHelp

See 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 periods of relaxation can actually lead to increased anxiety and consequently confusion and frustration. The distinction is made between quick-fixes for anxiety, including use of substances like alcohol and other more mundane distractions, and genuine, lasting recovery. Enriching practices like early bed time and meditation can be enacted over time to improve the anxiety recovery process. Listen in for more tips on improving your anxiety recovery process today!

Stillpoint Fridays is my once-a-week Friday note — a slower, more personal reflection that’s different from what I share on the podcast.

If you’d like a quiet place to land as the week winds down, you can join here: http://eepurl.com/bR2F9P or on our website anxietycoachespodcast.com and sign up for the newsletter.

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors! https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Websitehttps://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our community Group Coaching Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

1:1 CoachingLearn more about our One-on-One Coaching

If you prefer to listen AD-FREE, try our Supercast premium access membership:

Learn more about anxiety What is anxiety?

Free Guided Meditation for Calming Your Anxious Mind 10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Quote:

Try not to resist the changes that come your way. Instead, let life live through you. 

-Rumi

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Anxiety and Relief

1:56 False Relief vs. True Recovery

6:37 The Importance of Self-Care

7:29 Why We Seek Quick Relief

10:05 What Does True Recovery Look Like?

11:35 The Fear of Stillness

12:39 The Over-Scheduling Trap

15:10 The Late-Night Illusion

16:01 Experimenting with Recovery

17:28 Understanding Nervous System Care

Summary

In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve deeper into the intricate relationship between relaxation and anxiety, building on our previous discussion about alcohol and its impact on anxiety levels. It’s vital to recognize that reaching for various forms of relief when we feel overwhelmed is a common human experience. We naturally seek comfort, but we must differentiate between activities that provide short-lived relief and those that lead to genuine recovery.

I explore the concept that not all forms of relaxation foster true healing. While we often turn to quick fix solutions such as alcohol, late-night screen time, or the excitement of social engagements, these methods can lead to feelings of fragility and heightened anxiety the next day. It’s crucial to understand that the nervous system, especially for those living with anxiety, operates differently. Upon exhausting our resources for the day, it's not merely relaxation that we need, but rather a return to a state of balance and safety in our nervous system.

During our conversation, I emphasize the distinction between false relief, which may provide immediate distraction or numbing sensations, and genuine recovery—an experience that is slower-paced, steadier, and far more conducive to long-term well-being. This segment of our dialogue highlights how our common leisure activities might not genuinely allow the body to restore itself. For many, the hours spent binge-watching, planning social outings, or consuming substances like alcohol simply shift us into another state of activation rather than facilitating a true calming effect.

#AnxietyCoachesPodcast #GinaRyan #AnxietyRelief #MentalHealthMatters #NervousSystemRegulation #TrueRecovery #FalseRelief #PanicAttackRecovery #Mindfulness #SelfCare #WiredAndTired #BurnoutRecovery #StressManagement #CuesOfSafety #EmotionalWellbeing #HolisticHealing #InnerPeace #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomingAnxiety #HighFunctioningAnxiety #RestorativeSleep #Stillness #BodyAwareness #NervousSystemHealth #CalmMind #SelfCompassion #AnxietySupport #HealingJourney #MentalHealthTips #PeaceAndCalm #ACP

See 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 immense benefits solitude can have for individuals suffering with anxiety. Included are a number of practical ways to easily increase and improve beneficial solitude in one's life. Listen in to better understand the benefits of getting some alone-time in!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Quote:

Solitude is the richness of self.

-May Sarton

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Solitude

3:06 The Benefits of Alone Time

4:22 Distinguishing Loneliness from Solitude

5:40 Five Ways to Benefit from Solitude

8:09 Recovery and Rejuvenation

9:48 Reevaluating Relationships

13:02 Confronting Fears and Anxieties

15:27 Gaining Perspective Through Reflection

17:13 Celebrating Achievements

18:48 Finding Solitude in Everyday Life

Summary

In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I explore the often misunderstood concept of solitude and its myriad benefits for those grappling with anxiety. Solitude is not a punishment; rather, it is an essential practice that allows us to tap into our true selves amidst the chaos of everyday life. I highlight the importance of carving out alone time, regardless of whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, because life’s demands can easily overwhelm us, leaving little room for self-reflection.

Reflecting on my recent experiences, I discuss how the pressures of daily interactions and responsibilities can lead to feelings of being swamped and disconnected from the present moment. I share my realization that, with so much external noise, I found myself bouncing between past regrets and future anxieties instead of embracing the here and now. This made me yearn for solitude, which I realized is a personal choice I must prioritize.

I delve into the distinction between loneliness and solitude—where loneliness signifies a sense of disconnection, solitude allows for the opportunity to reconnect with oneself. By stepping away from the demands of our surroundings, we can better process our thoughts and gather clarity. I emphasize that retreats, whether they be for meditation or simply quiet time at home, serve as powerful catalysts for introspection.

#AnxietyCoachesPodcast, #AnxietyCoaches, #ACPSolitude, #AlohaSpiritMindset, #AnxietyCoachesCommunity, #TheRichnessOfSelf, #LetTheDustSettle, #RespondingNotReacting, #ClearTheSlate, #SubconsciousBubbling, #AnxietyRelief, #Solitude, #MentalHealthMatters, #SelfCare, #Mindfulness, #PersonalGrowth, #InnerPeace, #MentalClarity, #Recharge, #SelfReflection, #WellnessJourney, #IntrovertLife, #PresentMoment, #Journaling, #EmotionalWellbeing, #StressRelief, #Healing, #SpiritualGrowth, #HealthyBoundaries, #AnxietySupport, #MentalHealthAwareness, #PanicAttackRecovery, #CalmYourMind, #ACP, #GinaRyan

See 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 detrimental role alcohol can play in our anxiety formation and how taking a break from alcohol consumption can contribute to our anxiety recovery. During the initial phases of effects of alcohol consumption, anxiety can be relieved, but the after effects are quite the opposite. Over time, alcohol intake can make us less resilient to stress and more likely to make anxiety a chronic condition. Listen in to learn more about the effects of alcohol and how to take a break to see how you may benefit from less alcohol intake!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Quote:

The body always leads us home… if we are willing to listen.

-Thomas Hübl

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Anxiety and Alcohol

3:19 Understanding Alcohol's Initial Calming Effects

6:27 The Rebound Effect of Alcohol

9:37 Changes in Sleep Patterns

11:16 Subtle Shifts After Alcohol Abstinence

12:25 Supporting the Nervous System

13:39 Reflective Journaling Prompts

15:12 Closing Thoughts and Aloha

Summary

In this episode, I delve into the intricate relationship between anxiety and alcohol consumption, particularly focusing on what occurs when one decides to reduce or suspend their drinking, even temporarily. Alcohol is often a topic that merits discussion in the realm of anxiety coaching, and rather than applying any moral judgment to its use, I approach it with curiosity and a desire to understand how it impacts our nervous systems. Life can be overwhelming, and understanding how alcohol intertwines with anxiety offers a chance for relief and healing.

I start by addressing a fundamental aspect: the sense of safety. While many anxiety triggers often stem from perceived dangers, I encourage listeners to acknowledge that if they are tuned in, they are likely safe. Establishing this baseline of safety allows us to explore the potential effects of alcohol on mental health without the cloud of past judgments or shame. The intent isn't about completely abstaining from alcohol forever or adhering to strict rules, but rather understanding the nuances of how alcohol can provide temporary relief but ultimately disrupt our nervous system balance.

What unfolds in our discussion is a deep dive into the neurochemical effects of alcohol. Initially, alcohol may appear to alleviate anxiety due to its qualities as a central nervous system depressant, which increases the calming neurotransmitter GABA while dampening glutamate signals that drive anxiety. This biological response can create a temporary reprieve from anxious thoughts and social discomfort. However, this calming effect is short-lived, and as the alcohol dissipates from the body, a compensatory rebound occurs, leading to heightened anxiety, increased stress hormones, and disrupted sleep patterns.

#AnxietyRelief #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #AlcoholAndAnxiety #NervousSystemRegulation #Hangxiety #SoberCurious #DryJanuary #MentalHealthMatters #NervousSystemHealing #CortisolControl #GABA #Glutamate #MorningAnxiety #StressManagement #HolisticHealth #MindBodyConnection #SelfCareJourney #EmotionalWellness #Sobriety #HealthyHabits #MentalClarity #SleepHygiene #AnxietySupport #HealingJourney #OvercomingAnxiety #BrainHealth #WellnessTips #InnerPeace #CalmDown #StressRelief #VagusNerve #SomaticExperiencing #Mindfulness #HealthAndWellness #AlcoholFree #BiohackingMentalHealth #SelfGrowth #MentalHealthAwareness

See 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 complex process of healing from anxiety and contrasts healing as a creative process with anxiety healing as burdensome work. If you find yourself constantly self monitoring, stop and take a step back in self-compassion. Feeling overwhelmed is not a sign of failure. Listen in and improve your experience of your anxiety healing journey today!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Quote:

My invitation to you is this: don’t be afraid to rest. You don’t have to earn it.

-Jeff Foster

Chapters

0:26 Healing as a Journey

2:09 Transitioning from Job to Relationship

7:29 The Importance of Rest

8:54 Safety Over Optimization

12:09 From Management to Listening

14:48 Embracing Curiosity and Capacity

17:33 Permission to Be

18:20 Healing Without Supervision

Summary

In this episode, we delve into the nuanced journey of healing from anxiety, specifically addressing the moment when the process transitions from a hopeful pursuit to a daunting obligation. I explore the concept of healing that, while initially invigorating, may evolve into a relentless job—a continuous performance review of emotions and symptoms. This episode serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of stepping back from the rigorous management of our healing journey, allowing space for rest and reflection.

We discuss how, in the beginning, healing can bring a sense of excitement and relief as individuals discover new tools and insights that resonate with their journey. However, over time, the joy of these practices can diminish, replaced by a sense of duty where healing feels more like a checklist than a nurturing relationship with oneself. The conversation highlights the possible pitfalls of self-monitoring and the fear of regression, emphasizing how these pressures can cloud our emotional landscape and hinder true healing.

As I guide you through this discussion, I emphasize that the essence of healing lies not in constant vigilance but in cultivating a relationship with oneself that prioritizes curiosity and neutrality. We unpack the detrimental effects of a performance-oriented mindset, exploring how it can create an unyielding atmosphere of tension and exhaustion, particularly for those already navigating the challenges of anxiety or PTSD. Instead, I encourage a shift away from management—constantly wondering if we are doing enough—to a more compassionate stance that embraces listening to our needs and allowing moments of rest.

#AnxietyCoachesPodcast #HealingFatigue #AnxietyRecovery #NervousSystemRegulation #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfCareBurnout #GinaRyan #RestIsProductive #HealingJourney #AnxietySupport #MaryOliver #JeffFoster #Mindfulness #SafetyFirst #MentalRest #OvercomingAnxiety #BurnoutRecovery #GentleHealing #SoftAnimal #Neutrality #EndTheStruggle #Aloha #SelfCompassion #NervousSystemHealth #ACP

See 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 touching meditation that allows listeners to let go of their anxiety healing journey for a few minutes and bask in the warm glow of the present moment. Release all special requirements you have for yourself and your anxiety clearing work. This episode will set you free with a series of moments of peace and calm. Listen in and feel better today.

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Chapters

0:26 Welcome and Introduction

7:52 Rest Without Effort

10:14 Letting Go of Improvement

13:34 Setting Down Healing

16:08 Embracing the Moment

Summary

In this episode, I explore the often overlooked experience of healing fatigue, a phenomenon that arises from tirelessly working on oneself in the quest for peace and relief from anxiety. I address the listeners who may feel exhausted from their efforts—those who have meditated, journaled, and engaged with various practices yet still feel a nagging sense of incompleteness. This conversation is about acknowledging that fatigue and giving space to the part of you that feels worn down by the journey.

I draw on the wisdom of poet Mary Oliver, who beautifully states, "You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves." This quote encapsulates the essence of today’s reflection: the importance of recognizing the different types of exhaustion we face. There’s the fatigue that stems from deep suffering and another, subtler kind that arises from continuous self-improvement efforts. Processing these can be exhausting, especially when practices intended to soothe can instead feel burdensome and lead to feelings of failure.

It's crucial to emphasize that feeling worn out from healing is not indicative of personal shortcomings. This understanding can provide significant relief to those grappling with chronic emotional distress, where healing can be a lengthy and often taxing endeavour. I acknowledge that for some, the pathway to healing may appear smooth and straightforward, resembling a quick guide from A to B. Yet for others, the journey necessitates traversing through various challenges before reaching their goals. In this episode, I stand alongside those who feel the weight of healing fatigue, affirming that such feelings are valid and real.

#AnxietyCoachesPodcast #HealingFatigue #AnxietyRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #NervousSystemRegulation #SelfCareBurnout #GinaRyan #MaryOliver #Mindfulness #RestIsProductive #ChronicStress #InnerPeace #HealingJourney #EmotionalWellbeing #MentalRest #SelfCompassion #OvercomingAnxiety #BurnoutRecovery #GentleHealing #SoftAnimalOfYourBody #ACP

See 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 distinction between mind and body in the context of stress and anxiety. Consistent feelings of safety, combined with letting time pass and rest will enhance the healing process tremendously. Through kindness and patience, the anxiety recovery process can proceed smoothly overtime. Listen in and enhance your anxiety recovery process today!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Quote:

Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness.

-Peter Levine

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Anxiety and Safety

1:48 Understanding Survival Mode

4:43 The Role of the Nervous System

6:47 Accumulated Overwhelm Explained

8:39 The Importance of Slowness

12:59 Relearning Safety in Daily Life

15:43 Addressing the Body's Response

18:21 Closing Thoughts and Support Options

Summary

In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the complex relationship between our minds and bodies, particularly in the context of anxiety and stress. I explore the unsettling sensation that while our minds recognize safety, our bodies may remain entrenched in survival mode. Despite an absence of crises, many experience persistent tension and unease, akin to a smoke alarm that continues to sound even when there’s no fire. This prevailing sense of alarm can be perplexing, especially when life seems stable on the surface.

Throughout our discussion, I emphasize that this disconnect is not a personal failing but rather a reflection of how our nervous systems operate. The body does not always respond to logical reasoning; instead, it relies on past patterns and experiences to assess safety. With this understanding, I encourage listeners to consider how accumulated stress can lead to a prolonged state of hyper-vigilance, even in the absence of any immediate threat. I highlight that it is common for individuals to feel overwhelmed by minor stressors after enduring long periods of emotional pressure, and that recognizing these feelings is crucial to overcoming them.

I also address the important concept that time alone does not heal; rather, it is the repeated feelings of safety that facilitate healing. Our nervous systems need gentle, predictable, and gradual re-exposure to a sense of safety to learn to relax. I provide practical insights on how to integrate slowness and gentleness into our lives, urging listeners to embrace moments of rest without justification. Here, I draw attention to the value of simply allowing oneself to experience emotions and sensations without the compulsion to quickly fix or dismiss them.

#AnxietyRecovery #NervousSystemHealing #SurvivalMode #SomaticExperiencing #PolyvagalTheory #VagusNerveReset #MindBodyConnection #ChronicStressRelief #MentalWellness #TraumaInformed #SafetyIsASensation #BodyFirstHealing #Neuroplasticity #EmotionalRegulation #Interoception #TheBodyRemembers #GentleRecovery #HealingIsNotAWar #LogicVsSensations #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #GinaRyan #PeterLevine #StopTheBracing #BiologicalSafety #SomaticAwareness #RestAndDigest #NervousSystemRegulation #HolisticHealing #QuietConsistency #InnerPeace #ACP

See 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 chronic stress and anxiety. Through understanding this distinction, you can better customize your self-care and recovery process to suit your specific needs. Listen in and learn to clear chronic stress separately from anxiety and heal yourself faster and more completely!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Quote:

You don’t have to force calm. You create the conditions that allow it to emerge.

-Stephen Porges

Chapters

0:26 Introduction to Healing

2:24 Understanding Anxiety vs. Chronic Stress

8:08 Symptoms and Overlaps

14:30 Approaching Healing Differently

16:11 Reflecting on Your Experience

17:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Long Summary

In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the important distinction between anxiety and chronic stress, which is crucial for anyone on their healing journey. Understanding whether you're facing one or both of these challenges can significantly impact your approach to healing and your overall well-being. I want listeners to recognize that not all feelings of anxiety stem from anxiety itself; sometimes, they are the result of chronic stress that has built up over time. This episode aims to offer clarity on this often-overlooked difference, and I hope it resonates with those who feel overwhelmed by their symptoms.

I begin by addressing common questions that many people encounter, such as feelings of constant anxiety without an identifiable cause. It’s essential to know that this could be a sign of chronic stress rather than anxiety. I highlight how the symptoms of these two experiences, while similar, stem from different roots and require different approaches to healing. Chronic stress can manifest due to long-term demands on our nervous system, such as caregiving responsibilities, emotional labor, unresolved trauma, or the everyday pressures of life. Recognizing this is key, as treating chronic stress like anxiety often leads to frustration and a feeling of failure.

I then explore the characteristics of anxiety, which is primarily fear-based and anticipatory in nature. Anxiety manifests through relentless worry about potential threats, whether they are real or imagined. The connection to physical sensations is also accentuated, as anxiety commonly presents itself through symptoms like racing heartbeats and shallow breathing. Contrasting this, I elaborate on chronic stress, which revolves more around the load one carries rather than perceived threats. Chronic stress can leave individuals feeling exhausted yet wired, emotionally numb, or lacking joy and motivation.

#AnxietyRecovery #ChronicStress #MentalHealthAwareness #NervousSystemHealth #GinaRyan #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #StressRelief #SelfCare #BurnoutRecovery #HealingJourney #Mindfulness #TiredButWired #MentalWellness #SelfCompassion #PolyvagalTheory #StressManagement #AnxietySupport #EmotionalWellness #InnerPeace #Overwhelmed #ACP

See 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 addresses two listener questions regarding how anxiety related sensations and the beliefs about them are related and how we can use this relationship to our advantage in overcoming anxiety. Becoming more accepting of discomfort and understanding that such experiential states are temporary can go a long way in enabling our anxiety recovery process. Listen in and grow your sense of acceptance, curiosity and self-kindness today!

Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!

https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/

Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast.

FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

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To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

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Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

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❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

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Chapters

0:26 Welcome to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast

2:18 Understanding Limiting Beliefs

4:04 A Life-Changing Perspective

6:33 The Connection Between Listeners

8:00 Responding to Anxiety Differently

10:29 Expanding Our Window of Tolerance

13:59 Changing Relationships with Thoughts

15:49 Embracing Discomfort for Healing

Summary

In this episode, I dive deep into the interplay between anxiety sensations and the beliefs that fuel them. I start by addressing an essential concept: that nothing in the body is permanent, even if it feels that way during an anxious episode. This foundational idea sets the stage for understanding why anxiety sensations can seem so overwhelming and real. Often, the core struggle isn't just the discomfort of the sensation itself, but rather the belief attached to it—beliefs that often convey danger or a sense of permanence.

Today's discussion is inspired by two listener inquiries that, while seemingly different, stem from a common thread of inquiry into the nature of belief. One listener grapples with the conviction that certain uncomfortable sensations, like an unrelenting itch, signify an unchangeable state of existence. They express feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety, convinced that the discomfort equates to a serious, unending condition. I assure this listener and others experiencing similar issues that their feelings are not just valid, but also widely experienced by many on their anxiety journeys.

In juxtaposition, I share another listener's transformative insight. Mary reflects on how my previous discussions helped her reframe a nagging sense of fear tied to physical sensations. She articulates that understanding her safety in the moment—despite her anxiety’s insistence to the contrary—has shifted her perception of discomfort. This transition is crucial; it illustrates how recognizing the difference between feeling and danger can empower individuals to reclaim their mental peace, even in the presence of anxiety.

#AnxietyCoachesPodcast #AnxietyRecovery #GinaRyan #MentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #Mindfulness #NervousSystem #AnxietySupport #HealingJourney #OvercomingAnxiety #HealthAnxiety #SomaticHealing #MindBodyConnection #WindowOfTolerance #PanicAttackRecovery #SelfCare #InnerPeace #StressManagement #NervousSystemRegulation #MentalWellness #AnxietySensations #JonKabatZinn #Mooji #MindfulLiving #ChronicStress #EmotionalHealing #SafetyFirst #FearOfPermanence #HolisticHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #AnxietyTips #BrainRetraining #Neuroplasticity #SelfCompassion #CalmYourMind #FightOrFlight #Vagus Nerve #SomaticAwareness #PanicRelief #AnxietyClearing #MentalHealthWarrior #PeaceOfMind #WellnessJourney #MeditationPractice #SelfHealing #CognitiveReframing #IntrusiveThoughts #GeneralizedAnxiety #SocialAnxiety #Breathwork #SafeInMyBody #MindsetMatters #InternalItch #BodyScanning #AnxietyManagement #StressReduction #HealthyMind

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In today's episode, Gina discusses why anxiety can be resistant when trying to address it directly. Through acceptance and curiosity, we can come to better understand our anxiety without causing it to flare up and become worse. Listen in for strategies on how to attend to your anxiety gently, with an open heart, and without undue force.

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FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind

10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety

Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching link

ACPGroupCoaching.com

To learn more, go to:

Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com

Join our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership Program

Learn more about our One-on-One Coaching

What is anxiety?

Find even more peace and calm with our Supercast premium access membership:

For $5 a month, all episodes are ad-free! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com/

Here's what's included for $5/month:

❤ New Ad-Free episodes every Sunday and Wednesday

❤ Access to the entire Ad-free back-catalog with over 600 episodes

❤ Premium meditations recorded with you in mind

❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

All this in your favorite podcast app!

Chapters

0:26 Welcome to the Anxiety Coaches Podcast

2:59 The Trap of Fixing Mode

7:20 Understanding Anxiety's Persistence

9:50 Changing Your Relationship with Anxiety

13:49 Practical Strategies for Relief

15:25 Healing Through Compassion and Patience

Summary

In this insightful episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the often misunderstood relationship between anxiety and our efforts to manage it. I explore the counterproductive nature of trying to "fix" anxiety and how this can inadvertently reinforce its presence in our lives. Instead of viewing anxiety as an adversary to conquer, I encourage listeners to reconsider their approach and shift to a mindset of coexistence and understanding.

Drawing on the themes from our recent discussions, I highlight that anxiety, while challenging, is a natural human experience. It’s important to differentiate between healthy stress that comes and goes and anxiety that lingers, causing distress. Many of us fall into the trap of fixing mode, believing that we must eliminate anxiety entirely before we can lead fulfilling lives. This perspective can lead to constant self-monitoring, excessive reassurance-seeking, and avoidance behaviors that ultimately entrench our anxiety rather than alleviate it.

The episode emphasizes the paradox that comes with the insistence to fix anxiety. Every time we obsessively monitor our feelings or seek validation from others, we signal to our nervous system that something is amiss, thus heightening our anxiety rather than softening it. I propose a radical shift in our mindset—inviting listeners to treat anxiety not as a problem, but as a companion on the journey of life. By putting anxiety in the backseat, we can focus on meaningful experiences and activities, regardless of its presence.

#Anxiety #Stress #MentalHealth #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #GinaRyan #AnxietyRecovery #NervousSystem #Safety #Mindfulness #Healing #SelfCare #InnerPeace #Calm #Psychology #Wellness #Acceptance #CarlJung #OvercomingAnxiety #PanicAttack #MentalWellbeing #HolisticHealth #AnxietyTips #MentalHealthMatters #HealthAnxiety #MindBody #RecoveryJourney #EndResistance #Allowing #Compassion #EmotionalIntelligence #Neuroscience #SelfHealing #AnxietySupport #MindfulLiving #StressRelief #VagusNerve #MentalHealth2026 #BreakTheLoop #ACP

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.