The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

Gina Ryan
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Oct 15, 2025 • 23min

1185: Guest Anna Runkle: The Crappy Childhood Fairy Part 3

In today's episode, Gina concludes her interview with Anna Runkle, The Crappy Childhood Fairy. In this part of the discussion, emphasis is made on how important others can be in the healing and recovery process. The importance of establishing a regular practice for reregulation tools (such as journaling and meditation) is reinforced. It is suggested to practice your reregulation practices more than once a day, at regular times. Listen in for more of Anna's wisdom and improve your healing practice today!Link to find all things Crappy Childhood Fairy with Anna Runkle https://crappychildhoodfairy.com/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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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!Chapters0:26 Introduction to Anxiety Relief2:21 The Importance of Consistent Practice3:58 Understanding Dysregulation and Connection4:54 Exploring Connectability6:47 Navigating Relationships and Triggers8:26 Setting Boundaries for Healthy Connections11:10 Covert Avoidance and Its Impacts13:08 Letting Go and Emotional Freedom15:17 Offering Hope and Healing20:35 Resources for Continued GrowthSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I explore the concept of triggers—those moments that can thrust us into a state of emotional dysregulation. Personal experiences, such as external noises or criticism, can disrupt our mental clarity and focus, prompting discussions about the necessity of developing consistent techniques to regain calmness. Drawing from my journey, I emphasize that regular practices, much like writing or meditation, can significantly enhance emotional stability. It took years for me to establish a twice-daily routine, particularly during times of distress, fostering an inner sense of calm that gradually became second nature.We delve deeper into the philosophical elements of emotional healing and connectability, particularly in the context of trauma and its profound impact on our ability to form relationships. I share my own struggles with connection, especially in social settings where I often felt out of place. This journey of self-discovery has led me to coin the term "connectability," which captures the essence of learning to connect authentically with oneself and others. I discuss the barriers that may hinder our ability to relate to others, particularly for those who have experienced trauma or who fall within the neurodivergent spectrum.Through our conversation, I stress that establishing healthy boundaries is crucial for fostering strong relationships. Many of us carry past scars that make us susceptible to emotional dysfunction in our interactions. I share that it’s vital to recognize overt and covert forms of avoidance, whether by keeping distance from emotionally available individuals or using distractions like phone screens to escape social pressure. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward meaningful connection.#trauma, #anxiety, #cptsd, #healing, #mentalhealth, #selfhelp, #dysregulation, #triggers, #connectability, #boundaries, #avoidance, #nervoussystem, #crappychildhoodfairy, #podcast, #recovery, #emotions, #personalgrowth, #mindbody, #traumainformed, #innerpeace, #calm, #vagusnerve, #selfcare, #journaling, #codependency, #relationaltrauma, #childhoodtrauma, #emotionalintelligence, #connect, #overwhelmed, #liferevolution, #complexPTSD, #neurodiversity, #ACP, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast, #GinaRyanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Oct 12, 2025 • 22min

1184: Guest Anna Runkle: The Crappy Childhood Fairy Part 2

In today's episode, Gina continues her conversation with Anna Runkle, the Crappy Childhood Fairy. Learn more about how to reregulate your nervous system. In particular, Anna shares one of her most favorite tools: writing. Listen in and gain knowledge about how to use your ability to write to help calm your nervous system and return to a centered place of peace and calm.Link to find all things Crappy Childhood Fairy with Anna Runkle https://crappychildhoodfairy.com/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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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!Chapters0:26 Introduction to Anxiety Coaches Podcast1:10 Understanding Dysregulation4:49 The Importance of Regulation Techniques7:01 Simple Activities for Re-regulation8:58 Personal Stories of Dysregulation10:53 The Role of Writing in Healing15:17 Therapeutic Writing Practices16:13 Spiritual Aspects of Writing19:00 Navigating Trauma and Resentment21:04 Conclusion and Next StepsSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I continue my engaging conversation with Anna Runkle, also known as the Crappy Childhood Fairy. We're delving into the essential topic of emotional dysregulation—a common challenge for many, especially those who have experienced trauma or anxiety. I emphasize that it's normal to encounter dysregulation, but for individuals with a traumatic background, it can be more frequent and intense, often making it feel insurmountable. We discuss practical signs of dysregulation that listeners might recognize in themselves, such as feeling disconnected from their environment, losing track of time, or experiencing an inability to make sound judgment.As we navigate through these concepts, Anna shares her experiences and insights on identifying dysregulation. She articulates how feelings of frustration manifest in everyday situations, like tripping over things or struggling with routine tasks, emphasizing that these occurrences can stem from deeper emotional turmoil. Through her personal anecdotes, I highlight the crucial distinction between healthy emotional responses and those that lead to self-sabotage, cautioning listeners to avoid making life-altering decisions when in a dysregulated state.We also explore collective healing practices, such as movement and group activities, that can serve as forms of re-regulation. Anna discusses how these practices, whether through something as structured as military drills or as playful as community dancing, can help restore a sense of calm and connection among individuals. She emphasizes that nature also plays a vital role, and simple habits like taking walks or gardening can significantly aid in grounding oneself and rebuilding that much-needed attunement to our surroundings.#Dysregulation #TraumaHealing #AnxietyRelief #CPTSD #CrappyChildhoodFairy #AnnaRunkle #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #NervousSystemRegulation #ExpressiveWriting #HealingJourney #EmotionalDysregulation #MentalHealth #TraumaSymptoms #Dissociation #BrainFog #EmotionalOutbursts #FeelingNumb #ParalyzedByFear #SelfSabotage #TraumaTriggers #FeelingOverwhelmed #Detachment #MindfulnessPractice #SelfAwareness #StressRelief #PersonalGrowth #WritingTherapy #JournalingPrompts #DailyPractice #Pennebaker #TraumaRelease #CopingSkills #MindBodyConnection #MovementTherapy #SomaticHealing #NatureTherapy #GroundingTechniques #GinaRyan #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Oct 8, 2025 • 24min

1183: Guest Anna Runkle: The Crappy Childhood Fairy Part 1

In today's episode, Gina interviews Anna Runkle, the Crappy Childhood Fairy! Anna reveals much about her often traumatic life history and shares some of her most helpful tools for re-regulating the nervous system to find more peace and calm. Finding stability for our brain and nervous system now can have a substantial effect on our life both now and into the future. Listen in for Anna's interesting story and invaluable advice, find more peace and calm today!Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Link to find all things Crappy Childhood Fairy with Anna Runkle https://crappychildhoodfairy.com/Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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!Chapters0:26 Introduction to the Crappy Childhood Fairy2:38 Anna's Journey Through Trauma6:19 The Impact of PTSD13:13 Techniques for Healing19:05 Finding Peace Through Writing22:42 Embracing the Hand We’re DealtSummaryAnna Runkle, known as the "crappy childhood fairy," joins the Anxiety Coaches Podcast to discuss her journey of healing from childhood trauma and her innovative approaches to overcoming the adverse effects of such experiences. With a significant online following, Anna has dedicated over three decades to helping those affected by childhood trauma, enabling them to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Her forthcoming book, "Connectability: Heal the Hidden Ways You Isolate, Find Your People, and Feel, at Last, Like You Belong," focuses on overcoming feelings of disconnection—a common issue both among trauma survivors and those with normal childhoods. Anna highlights that many individuals crave connection and understanding but often feel isolated, leading to loneliness and strained relationships.During the discussion, Anna shares her personal background of growing up in a commune with a mother plagued by addiction, which subjected her and her family to violence, poverty, and neglect. Despite these challenges, she managed to remain a high-functioning student throughout her childhood and early adulthood. However, a series of traumatic events in her 30s, including the death of her mother, a serious heartbreak, and a violent attack, left her with profound psychological effects, specifically post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At that time, the concept of PTSD was not well understood outside military contexts, leaving Anna feeling isolated and struggling with her mental health amidst overwhelming shame and fear.In her conversation with Gina Ryan, Anna explains the significant misdiagnosis of childhood trauma symptoms, revealing her struggle with emotional dysregulation and her eventual journey to recovery. After initially finding therapy unhelpful, Anna serendipitously discovered effective techniques for managing her anxiety and depression through support from a friend who had also endured severe life struggles. These techniques, which included writing down her anxious and angry thoughts and feelings—effectively releasing them—and practicing meditation, became transformative tools for her.#CPTSD, #ComplexPTSD, #ChildhoodTrauma, #TraumaHealing, #Dysregulation, #NeurologicalDysregulation, #EmotionalRegulation, #Connectability, #Disconnection, #Isolation, #AnnaRunkle, #CrappyChildhoodFairy, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast, #DailyPractice, #Reregulated, #ReRegulation, #TraumaRecovery, #HealingTechniques, #SelfHelp, #LifeSkills, #SocialSkills, #Meditation, #AnxietyRelief, #MentalHealth, #SelfCare, #PersonalGrowth, #HealingJourney, #InnerPeace, #Belonging, #GinaRyan, #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Oct 5, 2025 • 21min

1182: How to Unlearn Anxiety: The Path Beyond Coping

In today's episode, Gina discusses a novel conceptual approach to overcoming anxiety: actually unlearning the anxiety. Rather than just coping, "white knuckling it" or breathing through it, we can unlearn the practices that have lead us to use anxiety as a survival strategy. You can rewire your mind through mindful awareness, interrupting patterns that have led to anxiety in the past, and reframing your inner narrative to include more benevolent and calming content. Listen in and start unlearning your anxiety 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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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 illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.-Alvin TofflerChapters0:26 Introduction to Unlearning Anxiety2:28 The Concept of Unlearning7:28 Identifying Triggers8:55 Meeting Triggers Differently10:11 Techniques for Mindful Observation12:26 Reframing Negative Narratives15:31 Building New Pathways17:57 The Ripple Effect of Unlearning19:22 Embracing a Future Without AnxietySummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative journey of unlearning anxiety, challenging the conventional narratives surrounding coping mechanisms. Many individuals have been conditioned to believe that anxiety is a lifelong companion—something to manage rather than fully overcome. I explore this notion, suggesting that the path to serenity lies not just in coping, but in unlearning the ingrained behaviors and responses that elevate our anxiety levels.I pose an essential question: what if coping, while useful, perpetuates our anxiety longer than necessary? We often adopt distraction techniques or shallow breathing as quick fixes, but these merely mask the root issues of our anxiety. It’s time to recognize that anxiety isn't an inherent part of our identity, but a response to learned experiences. Each of us has the power to unlearn those responses and free ourselves from their persistent grip, allowing space for a calmer existence.Throughout our discussion, I emphasize the power of rewiring our minds. I encourage listeners to recall moments of realization that challenge long-held beliefs—those “aha” moments where understanding sparks change. We unpack how anxiety often stems not just from specific triggers, but from our learned responses to those triggers. This understanding is integral to the unlearning process. Instead of simply coping with anxiety—like wearing earplugs to muffle a smoke alarm—we can address the underlying alarm itself.#AnxietyCoach #UnlearnAnxiety #AnxietyRelief #BeyondCoping #RewireYourBrain #MentalWellness #MindfulLiving #PatternInterrupt #StressManagement #Neuroplasticity #HealAnxiety #GinaRyan #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #CalmResponse #OvercomeFear #EmotionalFreedom #Reframing #TheAnxietyCoachesPodcast #UnlearningInventory #OldProgram #FixTheAlarm #PavingANewRoad #WormholeAnxiety #MeetThemDifferently #MindfulObservation #PauseAndRespond #ReframeTheNarrative #PathBeyondCoping #FreedomFromFear #ChoosePeace #EmotionalResilience #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Oct 1, 2025 • 20min

1181: Classic ACP Anxiety And Happiness Gems From Eckhart Tolle

Today's podcast is a review of 10 powerful insights or as coach Gina calls them --Anxiety and Happiness Gems from Eckhart Tolle. Get a good idea of Eckhart Tolle's perspective on Anxiety and Happiness! Here is the original post of these gems:  Eckhart-Tolles-10-Powerful-Insights-to-a-Happier-YouPlease 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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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!Chapters0:27 Introduction to Eckhart Tolle's Insights2:49 The Power of Present Awareness3:46 Understanding Thoughts and Reality5:25 Freeing Yourself from the Ego9:00 The Nature of Time and Presence9:55 Accepting the Present Moment12:12 Relationships and the Past12:49 Body, Identity, and Consciousness15:55 Finding Goodness Within17:06 The Choice of PeaceSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, we delve into the transformative insights of Eckhart Tolle, drawing from a compelling blog post that outlines "10 Powerful Insights to a Happier You." Throughout the discussion, I reflect on how Tolle's teachings have significantly impacted my own journey towards overcoming anxiety. His philosophy encourages us to identify and appreciate the hidden gems within our struggles, ultimately guiding us toward greater peace and happiness.We begin our exploration with the idea that seeking happiness can paradoxically lead to unhappiness. Tolle emphasizes that true happiness stems from facing our current realities rather than fabricating stories in our minds. By addressing the present moment and recognizing the stories we tell ourselves, we can reclaim our freedom from unhappiness. I highlight the importance of understanding how our thoughts shape our experiences and how anxiety often arises from our thoughts about future uncertainties rather than our immediate circumstances. Through practical examples, I encourage listeners to remain grounded in the facts of their lives, empowering them to take effective actions rather than succumbing to the stories of despair.As we proceed, we venture into the concept of separating our thoughts from the situations we face. I discuss Tolle's assertion that the primary source of our unhappiness often lies not in external circumstances but in our interpretations of those circumstances. By catching the inner voice that fuels our anxiety, we can cultivate a greater sense of awareness and autonomy in our responses. I emphasize the significance of developing a 'wise mind'—an observer that transcends our egoic thoughts—allowing us to engage more fully with our present experiences.#EckhartTolle, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast, #AnxietyRelief, #ThePowerOfNow, #Mindfulness, #PresentMoment, #InnerPeace, #SpiritualGrowth, #Consciousness, #MentalHealth, #SelfHelp, #OvercomingAnxiety, #StressManagement, #HappinessGems, #TheNow, #Ego, #BePresent, #PersonalGrowth, #EmotionalWellness, #Acceptance, #WiseMind #GinaRyan #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Sep 28, 2025 • 19min

1180: The Pause: Your Superpower Against Anxiety & Anger

In today's episode, Gina discusses how to use the technique of pausing and responding to stress with more equanimity than our often more common reaction of anxiety and anger. There are a number of practical ways to implement "the pause" and these are examined in this episode. Listen in for tips on how to use your breath in this regard, as well as an in-the-moment body-scan reset. These tips will have you mastering the technique of "the pause" in response to stress before you know it!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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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!Chapters0:26 Welcome to the Pause7:40 Creating Your Personal Pause13:00 From Reactivity to Intentional Action14:49 Progress, Not Perfection16:19 Living with Greater PeaceSummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into a transformative concept that can serve as an invaluable tool for managing anxiety and anger: the power of the pause. Drawing from my experiences as a coach, I encourage listeners to consider how often they may have reacted impulsively in tense situations, wishing they could retract their words or emotions once the dust has settled. Together, we explore the potential to respond differently by implementing a brief moment of pause, which can radically alter our emotional landscape.I reflect on a powerful quote by James Allen: "Self-control is strength. Calmness is mastery." This resonates with the idea that our instinctual emotional responses often feel overwhelming and uncontrollable, leading us to act in ways that later induce regret. I explain how our biology, particularly the amygdala and its rapid response mechanism, can hijack our ability to consciously process emotions. Understanding that these automatic reactions are part of our biological makeup empowers us to seek alternative paths that promote emotional resilience instead of defeat.Central to our discussion is Viktor Frankl’s profound insight: "Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response." By recognizing this pivotal moment of choice, we can foster a sense of growth and freedom, allowing ourselves to respond with intention rather than reacting out of habit or impulse. I guide listeners to visualize that pause as a 'pause button'—a space where clarity can replace chaos and awareness can replace automatic reaction.#AnxietyCoachesPodcast #AnxietyTips #MentalHealth #StressManagement #EmotionalRegulation #Mindfulness #ThePause #SelfControl #CopingSkills #PersonalGrowth #InnerPeace #AngerManagement #Calmness #GinaRyan #Psychology #AnxietySupport #EmotionalWellbeing #StressReduction #MindBodyConnection #SelfAwareness #HabitChange #MentalClarity #LifeSkills #Resilience #SelfImprovement #EmotionalIntelligence #ReactVersusRespond #InnerCalm #HolisticHealth #DailyPractice #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Sep 24, 2025 • 20min

1179: When Your Mind Turns Against You: A New Way To See Intrusive Thoughts

In today's episode, Gina discusses the awesome power of a shift in perspective when dealing with intrusive thoughts. It is imperative that individuals suffering with anxiety and intrusive thoughts learn to let go of the thoughts and understand that they are not these disturbing thoughts. Strong revulsion from the thoughts creates strong attachments to the thoughts and causes them to recur over time. Learn how to avoid this in this episode! Reduce unwanted thoughts and feel better!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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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:What a liberation to realize that the ‘voice in my head’ is not who I am. Who am I then? The one who sees that. -Eckhart TolleChapters0:26 Introduction to Intrusive Thoughts1:58 The Connection Between Rumination and Intrusive Thoughts3:35 Science of Intrusive Thoughts9:29 Embracing the Uninvited10:48 The Power of Acceptance13:13 The Role of Self-Compassion15:28 Transforming Your Relationship with Thoughts17:10 Practicing Mindfulness and Acceptance18:15 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSummaryIn this episode, I delve into the topic of intrusive thoughts, a subject that has been met with many questions and misunderstandings. I explore the very nature of these unwanted thoughts that can make us feel as though our minds have turned against us, trapping us in an overwhelming cycle that seems relentless and distressing. I invite listeners to consider the possibility that intrusive thoughts do not define us, and that they can lose their power when we change our perspective on them.I discuss how the natural response to intrusive thoughts is often to push them away or suppress them, a method that ultimately leads to an even stronger rebound effect. Through the lens of neuroscience, I explain how the brain's default mode network can create loops of self-focused thinking that keep us stuck in rumination. Many of us experience a cycle of negative thinking that not only intensifies our distress but also reinforces the persistence of these intrusive thoughts. I emphasize that becoming aware of this cycle can provide us with the hope we need to navigate these tumultuous moments.Drawing on insights from Eckhart Tolle, I illustrate the importance of understanding that we are not our thoughts. Instead, we are the observers of them, which can be a liberating realization. By accepting our intrusive thoughts without judgment, we allow them to exist as transient blips in our mind rather than as representatives of our character. I explain that emotional tagging by the amygdala can make these thoughts feel sticky, yet we can learn to embrace the uninvited rather than resist them.#anxietycoachespodcast #intrusivethoughts #anxiety #mentalhealth #mindfulness #selfcompassion #braintraining #rumination #innerpeace #lettinggo #stressrelief #emotionalregulation #neuroscience #eckharttolle #cognitivebehavioraltherapy #radicalacceptance #meditation #copingskills #rewireyourbrain #mindovermatter #anxietyrecovery #overthinking #intrusive #unwantedthoughts #calmyourmind #anxietyhelp #breathe #letitgo #thoughtwork #becominganobserver #ACP #GinaRyanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Sep 21, 2025 • 20min

1178: Floating vs. Letting Time Pass: What Claire Weekes Really Meant

In today's episode, Gina discusses one of the most important aspects of Claire Weekes' protocol for anxiety recovery: the floating and letting time pass stage (a sort of compound of the two last stages). Gina's enormous experience with anxiety and anxiety coaching give her special insight into how to maximize these practices in your anxiety recovery journey. Listen in and make sure you are getting the most out of your floating and letting time pass steps in your mindful response to anxiety attacks and start to leave anxiety behind!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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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:Do not measure your progress day by day. Let time pass.-Claire WeekesChapters0:26 Introduction to Floating and Time1:47 Understanding Floating vs. Letting Time Pass4:37 The Practice of Floating7:04 Letting Time Pass Explained9:22 How to Float Through Stress11:57 Floating as Daily Skill14:52 Recovery and Time16:04 Guided Floating Meditation18:19 Last Practice for AnxietySummaryIn this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the concepts of "floating" versus "letting time pass," clarifying often-confused terms that are crucial in the journey towards managing anxiety. Rooted in the teachings of Claire Weeks, these phrases can transform how individuals experience anxiety when they understand their distinct yet connected roles in recovery.I begin by addressing the overwhelming sensation of anxiety that many face—feeling ensnared in a relentless cycle that seems to trap us in a state of panic. When you hear someone suggest to simply "float" or "let time pass," you might find yourself pondering the difference. This episode seeks to dissect those feelings, revealing that while both concepts aim to ease anxiety, they serve different functions in the healing process. Understanding this can help alleviate confusion and make anxiety more manageable.I explore the process of "floating" in immediate moments of distress, urging listeners to visualize themselves effortlessly lying on water. This imagery embodies a non-resistant approach to anxiety, where rather than fighting the sensations, one learns to accept and move with them. I share a practical micro exercise: when feelings of anxiety arise, instead of resisting, simply acknowledge it, allowing oneself to float through the discomfort. This is not an act of passivity; it is an intentional choice to soften and embrace the experience rather than succumbing to panic.#anxietyrelief, #anxiety, #mentalhealth, #panicattacks, #stressmanagement, #selfcare, #mindfulness, #healingjourney, #mentalhealthmatters, #calmyourmind, #anxietyrecovery, #nervoussystem, #claireweekes, #ginaryan, #anxietycoachespodcast, #emotionalwellness, #mentalwellness, #selfhelptips, #mindbodyconnection, #overcominganxiety, #anxietysupport, #anxietyawareness, #endthestigma, #youarenotalone, #innerpeace, #mentalhealthawareness, #selflove, #anxietyhelp, #floating, #lettingtimepass #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Sep 17, 2025 • 19min

1177: How To Find Calm Beyond The Mind: Your Body Holds the Key

In today's episode, Gina discusses the role the body can play in our ability to calm our anxiety and discover more stability and peace. A mini guided body scan is included in this episode to help listeners tune into their bodies and listening. A practice for using your breath as an anchor is also included. Using these techniques and others in this episode can help you release nervous tension using your body and come to know more peace and calm. Listen in today!Please visit our Sponsor Page to find all the links and codes for our awesome sponsors!https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.com/sponsors/ Thank you for supporting The Anxiety Coaches Podcast. FREE MUST-HAVE RESOURCE FOR Calming Your Anxious Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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 is where our power lives. If we want to find peace, we have to come home to it.-Resmaa MenakemChapters0:26 Introduction to Body and Anxiety2:53 The Body as an Ally6:17 Breathing Techniques for Calm9:26 Understanding Proprioception11:22 Grounding Practices13:26 Making Practices Practical15:24 The Future of Calm Living16:06 Conclusion and ReflectionSummaryIn this episode, I delve into the often-overlooked connection between our physical body and our mental well-being, particularly concerning anxiety. As I explore the idea that our body can become our greatest ally, I challenge the common perception that anxiety is solely a mental battle. I introduce the concept that the persistent buzzing of anxiety in our minds often manifests as physical sensations, signaling that something within us requires attention. Both ancient wisdom and modern scientific insights reinforce this connection, highlighting that our physical self holds the key to achieving lasting relief from anxiety.During our discussion, I emphasize the importance of being attuned to our bodies, encouraging listeners to recognize and understand the unique signals their bodies send. By shifting our focus from battling anxious thoughts to nurturing our physical experience, we can start cultivating a sense of calm. I walk the audience through practical exercises, such as a guided body scan, emphasizing the necessity of not only knowing our bodies superficially but truly feeling and understanding the sensations within them. With activities aimed at fostering awareness and softness in our bodies, I illustrate how acknowledging tension and adopting mindfulness can pave the way for anxiety relief.Breathwork emerges as another powerful tool in our journey toward calming our systems. I guide listeners through a simple yet effective breathing exercise designed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing us to engage with our breath and foster a sense of safety. Each practice, whether it's recognizing proprioception or incorporating gentle movements, is intended to bridge the gap between mental and physical experiences. I underscore the significance of meeting bodily sensations with curiosity, ensuring that the audience understands the value of their physical presence in the face of anxiety.#AnxietyRelief #MindBodyConnection #AnxietySupport #MentalWellness #CalmYourNervousSystem #GroundingTechniques #BreatheAndBeWell #HolisticHealth #SelfSoothing #StressManagement #AnxietyCoachesPodcast #GinaRyan #BodyIsYourAlly #MindfulnessPractice #FindYourCalm #EmbodiedPeace #WellnessJourney #Proprioception #VagusNerveStimulation #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Sep 14, 2025 • 19min

1176: Classic ACP The ABC's Of Acceptance As A Path To Clearing Anxiety

Today Gina dives into the ABCs Of Acceptance As A Path To Clearing Anxiety. Join in and learn why acceptance, although it seems counter intuitive and passive, is actually the courageous way out!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 Mind10-Minute Body-Scan Meditation for Anxiety Anxiety Coaches Podcast Group Coaching linkACPGroupCoaching.comTo learn more, go to:Website https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comJoin our Group Coaching Full or Mini Membership ProgramLearn 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 first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are. -Marcus AureliusChapters0:26 Introduction to Acceptance6:02 The Power of Being10:22 Cultivating Curiosity13:01 Breaking the Anxiety Loop16:04 Dental Chair Insights18:00 Closing Thoughts and ReflectionSummaryIn this episode, I delve into the transformative concept of acceptance as a crucial approach to alleviating anxiety. We parse through the ABCs of acceptance, beginning with the letter A, which stands for Allow. Allowing or accepting our feelings and circumstances is a fundamental step in managing anxiety as articulated by Claire Weeks. I emphasize that acceptance does not equate to liking our situation; rather, it is about acknowledging the reality of our experiences without unnecessary struggle. I illustrate the detrimental effects of resisting reality, likening it to a tug-of-war that drains our energy and keeps us from moving forward. By choosing to accept what is, we enable ourselves to release the struggle and channel our energy toward the aspects of our lives that we can control.Next, we journey into letter B—Be, or Being with our feelings and sensations. Here, I shed light on the importance of cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of our experiences. This practice allows us to notice our pain, whether physical or emotional, without feeding into our fears. For instance, when faced with bodily sensations that induce anxiety, such as chest tightness, I encourage listeners to approach these feelings with curiosity rather than panic. By observing our bodies like scientists, without preconceived notions or urgent desires to escape discomfort, we diminish the sense of peril associated with our internal experiences. In doing so, we foster a calmer environment for ourselves, paving the way for healing and clarity.We progress to letter C, which signifies Curiosity. I highlight how adopting a curious mindset towards our intrusive thoughts and fears can significantly reduce their power over us. By reframing our relationship with anxiety-provoking thoughts as mere phenomena to explore, rather than truths to contend with, we strip them of their authority. We're reminded that everyone experiences run-of-the-mill anxious thoughts, but the key lies in how we respond to them. Practicing curiosity diminishes fear, opening avenues for proactive responses based on our learned understanding of our mind's workings.#anxietyrelief #acceptance #mindfulness #mentalhealth #anxietycoaching #stressmanagement #calmness #selfhelp #personaldevelopment #overcominganxiety #GinaRyan #anxietycoachespodcast #emotionalhealth #curiosity #copingstrategies #panicattack #selfcarefirst #mentalwellness #lettinggo #beherenow #mindfulmoments #anxietyfree #anxietysupport #nervoussystem #mindsetshift #ACPSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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