The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

Gina Ryan

Helping you overcome stress, panic attacks, PTSD, and anxiety; and bringing ancestral health to your modern life.

  • 23 minutes 56 seconds
    1129: Healing the Modern Brain: Dr. Drew Ramsey on Mental Fitness and Anxiety Part 3

    In today's show, Gina shares the third and final part of her interview with Dr. Drew Ramsey, nutritional psychiatrist and author of a new book about mental fitness Healing the Modern Brain. Dr. Ramsey shares the rest of his core tenets for healing and revitalizing your mind and brain to help you maximize mental wellness. Listen in for some powerful ways to enhance your healing journey and overcome anxiety!


    Learn more at http://drewramseymd.com/




    Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind by Dr Drew Ramsey https://amzn.to/40RGudz




    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

    0:43 Welcome to the Final Episode

    2:01 The Power of Movement

    2:58 Nutrition's Role in Anxiety

    4:17 Importance of Connection

    5:31 Engagement with the Present

    6:34 Grounding in Nature

    9:34 Unburdening Past Traumas

    12:25 Finding Purpose

    14:12 Integrating the Tenets

    16:04 Resources and Next Steps


    Summary

    In this final episode of our enlightening conversation with Dr. Drew Ramsey, we delve deeper into essential strategies for managing anxiety and fostering mental wellness. Building on the topics discussed in earlier episodes, we explore actionable tenets rooted in both personal experience and scientific research, aiming to provide listeners with a comprehensive toolbox for achieving peace of mind and emotional balance.


    One of the pivotal tenets discussed is movement, specifically highlighting the profound impact of dance on our mental state. Dr. Ramsey shares a heartwarming story about a patient rediscovering her love for tango, illustrating how joyfully engaging in movement can elevate our mood and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of integrating more dance into our lives, whether through dance classes or spontaneous dance parties at home. This practice not only enhances physical well-being but also nurtures emotional resilience.


    Nutrition is another critical aspect we explore. Dr. Ramsey discusses the significance of paying attention to how our diets can affect anxiety levels, pointing out the roles of certain foods and the benefits of fermented items. The conversation unveils research that links dietary choices to our mental states, advocating for mindful eating habits to foster a healthier relationship with food and, by extension, with ourselves. The exploration of food sensitivities and how they can manifest as anxiety brings a nuanced understanding to our conversations around nutrition.


    #MentalHealth, #Anxiety, #Depression, #Nutrition, #Movement, #Exercise, #Sleep, #Connection, #Mindfulness, #Nature, #Trauma, #SelfCare, #HolisticHealth, #Wellness, #Wellbeing, #Psychology, #Therapy, #DrewRamsey, #HealingTheModernBrain, #MentalFitness, #WellbeingJourney, #GinaRyan, #ACP, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast


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    2 April 2025, 8:00 pm
  • 25 minutes 15 seconds
    1128: Healing the Modern Brain: Dr. Drew Ramsey on Mental Fitness and Anxiety Part 2

    In today's episode, Gina shares part two of her interview with Dr. Drew Ramsey, nutritional psychiatrist and author interested in helping people enhance their mental health through building up their mental fitness. Some of the core principles of mental fitness are outlined in this episode. Listen in and begin building up your own mental fitness today!


    Learn more at http://drewramseymd.com/



    Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind by Dr Drew Ramsey https://amzn.to/40RGudz



    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

    0:43 Introduction to Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    2:21 The Role of Self-Awareness

    3:09 The Impact of Alcohol on Mental Health

    5:39 Nutrition for Mental Health

    7:48 Urban Living and Mental Wellness

    10:19 Connection and Community's Importance

    13:20 Neuroplasticity and Mental Resilience

    13:55 Understanding Anxiety as a Superpower

    17:37 Nutrition Strategies for Anxiety

    19:17 Conclusion and Next Steps


    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I engage in a compelling continuation of my discussion with Dr. Drew Ramsey. We delve deeper into the intricate relationship between self-awareness and mental health, emphasizing that this crucial skill requires continuous nurturing throughout different life stages. Through the lens of Dr. Ramsey's book, "Healing the Modern Brain," we explore scientifically-backed strategies for enhancing self-awareness, notably the practice of journaling. Dr. Ramsey articulates how self-reflective processes, such as journaling, can activate our prefrontal cortex—a vital area of the brain linked to decision-making and executive functioning. He shares practical advice for incorporating journaling into our daily routines, pointing out how just a few minutes can significantly enhance our emotional clarity and mental fitness.


    We also discuss real-world applications and personal anecdotes that highlight the transformative power of self-awareness. One particularly poignant story involves Charlotte, a woman whose pandemic-driven drinking habits led her to seek help. Through self-awareness and a structured accountability process, she achieved remarkable change, illustrating how building awareness can lay the foundation for recovery from challenges such as substance abuse. The conversation invites listeners to consider their own mental health journeys and the pivotal role self-awareness plays in them.




    #anxietyrelief #mentalhealthmatters #nutritionmatters #selfcare #braingames #urbanlife #neuroscience #socialconnection #emotionalintelligence #journalingprompts #wellnessjourney #mentalstrength #depressionawareness #therapyworks #lifecoaching #healthyliving #dietplan #foodismedicine #scientificresearch #clinicaltrials #psychologicalwellbeing #behavioralhealth #traumainformed #sleephygiene #communitysupport #lifestylemedicine #preventativecare #mentalhealthawarenessday #alternativemedicine #holistichealth #GinaRyan #ACP #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

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    30 March 2025, 1:00 pm
  • 23 minutes 9 seconds
    1127: Healing the Modern Brain: Dr. Drew Ramsey on Mental Fitness and Anxiety Part 1

    In today's episode, Gina interviews Dr. Drew Ramsey, a psychiatrist specializing in nutritional psychiatry and mental fitness. The connection between the food we eat and our mental health is extremely important and Dr. Ramsey's work focuses on this critical area. Dr. Ramsey's insights are particularly applicable in our new fast paced world in which we are highly connected via social media and other information technology. Listen in to part one and begin to understand how you can expand your mind's resilience today!


    Learn more at http://drewramseymd.com/


    Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind by Dr Drew Ramsey https://amzn.to/40RGudz


    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

    0:43 Introduction to Nutritional Psychiatry

    3:05 Personal Journey in Mental Health

    6:26 The Role of Lifestyle Changes

    8:41 Understanding Mental Fitness

    13:42 The Importance of Self-Awareness

    17:08 Conclusion and Next Steps


    Summary

    Dr. Drew Ramsey, a board-certified integrative psychiatrist and a proponent of nutritional psychiatry, appeared as a guest on the Anxiety Coaches Podcast hosted by Gina Ryan. In the episode, they delve into the significant relationship between nutrition, lifestyle choices, and mental health, emphasizing how the over-reliance on pharmaceuticals in mental health care can overshadow the benefits of a holistic approach that includes food and other lifestyle factors.


    Ramsey, who has an impressive academic and professional background—including a position as an assistant clinical professor at Columbia University and the founder of the Brain Food Clinic—shares insights from his latest book, "Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind." He stresses that the current mental health epidemic demands an enhanced focus on building mental fitness through practical lifestyle changes. This approach, he argues, provides a broader and more meaningful path to emotional well-being rather than simply relying on medication.


    The conversation transitions to Ramsey's personal experiences with mental health struggles, touching on moments from his college years when he faced low energy and cognitive fog. He reflects on the adjustments he made when moving from rural Indiana to urban Manhattan for his psychiatric training, discussing how these life changes impacted his mental health. Acknowledging the complexity of mental health, Ramsey highlights that it's essential to discern the interplay between various life challenges, from parenting stresses to negotiation of personal identity.


    #MentalHealth, #NutritionalPsychiatry, #MentalFitness, #SelfCare, #Wellness, #Psychology, #Psychiatry, #Lifestyle, #Diet, #Nutrition, #HolisticHealth, #IntegrativeMedicine, #BrainHealth, #PersonalGrowth, #SelfAwareness, #Healing, #Anxiety, #Depression, #StressManagement, #Mindfulness, #Wellbeing, #GinaRyan, #ACP, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

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    26 March 2025, 8:00 pm
  • 22 minutes 14 seconds
    1126: Struggling with Anxiety: These Affirmations for Safety Strength and Peace Can Help

    In today's episode, Gina touches on a special category of affirmations: those designed for safety, strength and peace. These affirmations can help strengthen neural pathways that promote calmness and stability. By reciting affirmations, we actually change our brain and make it more resilient. Listen in and become stronger in mind and brain 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:

    The autonomic nervous system takes in experiences moment by moment and creates a story of safety or danger. We can reshape that story by sending new messages of safety and connection.

    -Deb Dana

    Chapters

    0:42 Introduction to Grounding Affirmations

    9:28 Affirmations for Safety and Support

    12:15 Reflecting on Your Experience

    14:27 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative power of affirmations, focusing on those that promote safety, strength, and peace. As we navigate through high levels of stress and anxiety, the use of positive affirmations serves as a gentle yet effective tool to ground ourselves in the present moment. I invite listeners to engage deeply with these affirmations, whether they're in a quiet space for reflection or on the move, emphasizing that the flexibility of this practice allows for maximum benefit in various settings.


    We begin by acknowledging the common struggle of being lost in thought, frequently dwelling on future worries or past regrets, rather than embracing the here and now. The discussion centers around the importance of shifting our mindset back to a place of safety, where we can recognize that in this very moment, we are okay. The affirmations I share are aimed at soothing the nervous system and helping to cultivate a sense of calm amidst life’s turbulence. Listeners are encouraged to embrace whichever affirmation resonates with them most, tailoring it to create a personal mantra or prayer that they can revisit regularly for grounding.


    Throughout the episode, I elaborate on why affirmations matter, especially in moments when anxiety leads our thoughts to spiral negatively. By introducing calming messages, these affirmations serve to interrupt harmful thought cycles and remind us of our inherent safety and support.


    #anxiety #stressrelief #mindfulness #affirmations #meditation #mentalhealth #selfcare #grounding #wellbeing #peace #calm #emotionalhealth #resilience #copingstrategies #presentmoment #relaxation #thoughtpatterns #emotionalregulation #selfcompassion #personalgrowth #innerpeace #stressmanagement #breathwork #positiveaffirmations #subconsciousmind #cognitiverestructuring #emotionalsupport #selfsoothing #traumainformed #nervoussystemhealth #somaticexperiencing #mentalwellness #dailyaffirmations #anxietyrelief #emotionalbalance #psychologicalwellbeing #holistichealth #mindbodyconnection

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    23 March 2025, 1:00 pm
  • 22 minutes 22 seconds
    1125: Most People Have No Idea This Helps with Stress: The Power of Grounding

    In today's episode, Gina discusses how to ground oneself into the environment and the present moment in order to better cope with stress and anxiety. More specifically, the "freeze state" is discussed, also known as being in a dorsal vagal state. The grounding techniques shared in this episode help gently activate the ventral vagal system to support your sense of safety and connection. Listen in and start feeling safer and calmer 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:

    When we anchor in safety, our nervous system has the opportunity to regulate, and from that place of regulation, we can engage more fully with life.

    –Deb Dana

    Chapters

    0:42 Introduction to Grounding

    4:46 Symptoms of Anxiety States

    7:09 Grounding Techniques Explained

    12:38 When to Use Grounding Practices

    14:51 Experimenting with Grounding Methods

    16:03 Closing Thoughts and Reminders

    Summary

    In this enlightening episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the transformative practice of grounding and its pivotal role in managing anxiety. Grounding is a technique designed to anchor our minds and bodies in the present moment, and it can be incredibly useful when facing stress and anxiety that often leaves us feeling disconnected or overwhelmed. Throughout our conversation, I will break down the simple yet effective grounding practices that can serve as tools to cultivate a sense of peace and calm whenever you need it.


    I explore how anxiety manifests not only in racing thoughts but also in feelings of numbness or disconnection—an often overlooked aspect referred to as the dorsal vagal state. I discuss the myriad symptoms associated with this state, from cognitive challenges like difficulty concentrating and mental fog to emotional disconnection and physical sensations such as fatigue and shallow breathing. By understanding these symptoms, we can recognize the varied ways anxiety affects us and become equipped with strategies to counteract them.


    Central to this discussion is how grounding practices activate our ventral vagal system, which is crucial for fostering feelings of safety and connection.

    #anxiety, #groundingtechniques, #nervoussystemregulation, #vagusnerve, #stressmanagement, #mentalhealth, #mindfulness, #presentmoment, #emotionalregulation, #copingskills, #relaxation, #breathwork, #selfcare, #polyvagaltheory, #dorsalvagal, #fightorflight, #freezeresponse, #sensorygrounding, #bodyawareness, #emotionaloverwhelm, #calmingtechniques, #wellness, #peace, #calm, #presence, #hyperarousal, #hypoarousal, #DebDana, #traumainformed, #selfregulation, #groundingexercises, #anxietyrelief, #emotionalwellbeing, #proprioception, #tactilegrounding, #movementgrounding, #imagerygrounding, #naturetherapy, #stressreduction, #groundingpractices, #emotionalhealth, #mentalwellness, #dailyhabits, #copingstrategies, #relaxationtechniques, #mindbodyconnection, #selfsoothing, #stressmanagementtools, #emotionalresilience, #psychologicalwellbeing, #somaticexperiencing, #GinaRyan, #ACP, #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

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    19 March 2025, 8:00 pm
  • 26 minutes
    1124: Finding Glimmers: A Polyvagal Guide to Inner Safety with Deb Dana Part 3

    In this episode, Gina shares the third and final part of her interview with Deb Dana, LCSW, author of The Glimmer Journal. This episode will teach you how to take advantage of your innate capacity to heal by delivering powerful signals of safety and joy to your nervous system. Listen in and start finding more glimmers and feeling better today!

    Learn more about Deb Dana’s work at http://rhythmofregulation.com

    The Glimmers Journal https://amzn.to/3Dok3F4

    Share your Glimmers with us https://ginaryan.gumroad.com/l/cvCTD

    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

    0:42 Welcome to the Conversation

    1:18 Exploring the Glimmer Practice

    4:04 The Importance of Sharing Glimmers

    5:14 Organizing Your Glimmer Moments

    7:12 Creating Community Through Glimmers

    9:32 Building a Glimmer Intention

    13:46 Befriending Your Nervous System

    16:03 Spreading the Glimmer Concept

    18:26 The Ripple Effect of Glimmers

    19:23 Where to Find More Resources

    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I dive back into a captivating conversation with Deb Dana, whose insights into anxiety regulation and the concept of glimmers truly enrich our understanding of mental wellness. This marks the third installment of our discussion, and for those who missed the previous episodes, I highly encourage listening to them for foundational insights that set the stage for our current exploration.


    We kick off the episode by discussing the simplicity yet profound impact of the glimmer practice. Deb outlines a straightforward three-step approach: See, Stop, Appreciate. The 'See' encourages us to recognize a glimmer moment in our lives, which could be as simple as witnessing a beautiful rainbow or noticing the soothing sound of birds. I share my own recent experience with a glimmer, highlighting how these moments resonate deeply within our bodies and minds, igniting feelings of joy and wonder.


    The next step, 'Stop,' prompts us to pause and acknowledge these glimmers instead of passing by; we often forget to appreciate the beauty around us. Deb emphasizes the importance of letting these glimmer moments fill us for just a few seconds, enriching our daily experiences. Following this appreciation, we delve into the 'Appreciate' stage, which encourages marking these moments in various ways, such as journaling or sharing them with a 'glimmer buddy.' This sharing cultivates connections with others, reinforcing the joy and beauty found in these little sparks of life.


    #Anxiety

    #NervousSystemRegulation

    #PolyvagalTheory

    #Glimmers

    #Mindfulness

    #SelfCare

    #MentalHealth

    #Resilience

    #Wellbeing

    #Connection

    #Community

    #DebDana

    #Journaling

    #EmbodiedExperience

    #StressManagement

    #EmotionalRegulation

    #Gratitude

    #Meditation

    #GlimmerPractice

    #ACP

    #GinaRyan

    #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

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    16 March 2025, 1:00 pm
  • 22 minutes 54 seconds
    1123: Finding Glimmers: A Polyvagal Guide to Inner Safety with Deb Dana Part 2

    In today's episode, Gina shares part two of her interview with Deb Dana, LCSW, clinician and author who has applied polyvagal theory to help clients suffering with complex trauma and other anxiety related problems. Deb shares more of her own story and wisdom in this part of her interview. Listen in for actionable insights you can apply in your own journey healing from anxiety!

    Learn more about Deb Dana’s work at http://rhythmofregulation.com

    The Glimmers Journal https://amzn.to/3Dok3F4

    Share your Glimmers with us https://ginaryan.gumroad.com/l/cvCTD

    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

    0:43 Welcome Back to the Podcast

    2:01 Finding Calm Amidst Anxiety

    5:18 Organizing Energy for Regulation

    8:15 The Power of Micro Moments

    10:59 Discovering Glimmers in Life

    13:37 Understanding Glimmers and Challenges

    15:34 Building a Practice Around Glimmers

    16:54 Reflections and Goodbyes

    Summary

    In this episode, I continue my enlightening conversation with Deb Dana, a well-respected expert on the polyvagal theory and its practical applications in managing anxiety and nervous system regulation. Building upon our previous discussion, we delve deeper into the profound understanding that our nervous systems inherently seek regulation and safety. Deb passionately emphasizes that understanding our biology and its connection to anxiety can alleviate feelings of self-blame during moments of distress—it's not about being broken, but rather recognizing the natural responses of our body.


    We explore effective and approachable strategies for moving from states of high anxiety or stress back to a place of calm. Deb presents a compelling perspective that our nervous systems are knowledgeable and capable of guiding us back to balance, provided we are willing to partner with them rather than fight against their natural impulses. We discuss practical steps that individuals can take to channel overwhelming energy in positive, constructive ways. Through gentle shaping and organizing of this energy, Deb highlights the importance of viewing anxiety not as a debilitating condition, but as a natural signal that calls for attention and self-care.


    Throughout our conversation, we underline the significance of personalized practices in regulating our nervous systems, which may include movement, music, or even spending time in nature. The concept of a personal "menu" of calming strategies is introduced, encouraging listeners to discover what resonates with their unique systems, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to self-care. Deb underscores the vital role of "micro moments".


    #anxiety #nervoussystem #regulation #polyvagaltheory #glimmers #mentalhealth #selfcare #mindfulness #healing #podcast #anxietyrelief #stressmanagement #emotionalregulation #wellbeing #mentalwellness #traumainformed #resilience #selfregulation #innerpeace #neuroscience #copingskills #mindbodyconnection #personaldevelopment #healthpodcast #podcastinterview

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    12 March 2025, 8:00 pm
  • 23 minutes 12 seconds
    1122: Finding Glimmers: A Polyvagal Guide to Inner Safety with Deb Dana Part 1

    In today's episode, Gina interviews Deb Dana, LCSW, a clinician and author who has implemented polyvagal theory to help heal individuals suffering with complex trauma. Polyvagal theory is highly applicable to individuals suffering with anxiety and Deb's knowledge and experience shine through in this interview to help listeners learn about its core concepts. Listen in today and begin to feel safe again!

    Learn more about Deb Dana’s work at http://rhythmofregulation.com

    The Glimmers Journal https://amzn.to/3Dok3F4

    Share your Glimmers with us https://ginaryan.gumroad.com/l/cvCTD

    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

    0:42 Welcome to the Podcast

    1:58 Exploring Glimmer's Journal

    8:04 Understanding Polyvagal Theory

    12:13 The Nervous System Explained

    15:38 Co-Regulation and Connection

    17:14 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, host Gina Ryan welcomes special guest Deb Dana, a licensed clinical social worker, clinician, consultant, and leading expert on complex trauma, who specializes in Polyvagal Theory. Deb Dana is not only a respected author of several influential books, including "Polyvagal Prompts" and "Polyvagal Exercises for Safety and Connection," but she is also a co-editor of "Clinical Applications of the Polyvagal Theory" with Dr. Stephen Porges. The discussion centers around her new book, "Glimmer's Journal," which encourages readers to reflect on the small moments that foster joy, safety, and connection—core themes that resonate deeply with the podcast's mission.


    Gina dives straight into Deb’s journey, highlighting how she encountered Dr. Porges’ work and realized the vital role the body and nervous system play in psychotherapy. Deb recounts the pivotal moment when she first read Dr. Porges' book, likening it to finding a missing piece of the puzzle in her understanding of the human experience. She shares how her initial outreach led to a collaborative workshop with Dr. Porges, which opened the door for her to incorporate Polyvagal Theory into clinical practice and ultimately inspired the tools and frameworks she has developed.


    The conversation explores key concepts of Polyvagal Theory, particularly the significance of safety and the role of the nervous system in our daily lives. Deb explains the concept of neuroception, describing how our nervous systems constantly assess safety and danger based on both internal cues—such as physical sensations and emotional states—and external cues from our environment and interactions with others. She emphasizes that an understanding of these dynamics can empower individuals to discern their feelings of anxiety and recognize them as adaptive survival responses rather than indications of personal failure.

    #mentalwellness

    #selfcare

    #wellbeing

    #emotionalhealth

    #innerpeace

    #healing

    #resilience

    #mindbodyconnection

    #polyvagalinformed

    #polyvagalpractice

    #panicattacks

    #overwhelm

    #copingskills

    #ACP

    #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

    #GinaRyan

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    9 March 2025, 1:00 pm
  • 24 minutes 57 seconds
    1121: Most People Try to Control Their Thoughts: Here's Why That Backfires

    In today's episode, Gina shares a key strategy for handling unwanted thoughts: allowance (acceptance). Though contrary to our common expectations, allowing unwanted thoughts to be present in our mind is the very antidote to their power to make our anxiety worse. Trying to control the mind and the unwanted thoughts causes them to remain in our consciousness longer. Listen in and become a master of your mind with these critical techniques!

    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:

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    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

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    ❤ And more fun surprises along the way!

    All this in your favorite podcast app!

    Quote:

    The boundary to what we can accept is the boundary to our freedom.

    -Tara Brach

    Chapters

    0:42 Introduction to Thought Control

    3:00 The Ironic Process Theory

    7:03 The RAIN Method Explained

    12:00 Mindfulness and Acceptance

    13:57 Diffusion Techniques for Thoughts

    16:20 Cognitive Flexibility and Focus

    17:29 Key Takeaways for Peace

    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into a common misconception about managing our thoughts: the belief that controlling them equates to finding peace and emotional stability. Many of us have been conditioned to think that if we can simply regulate our thoughts, we can navigate life more effectively. This notion stems from the idea that our thoughts dictate our emotions and behaviors, leading to the belief that mastery over our minds can lead to a smoother existence. However, I reveal that this is fundamentally flawed.


    Firstly, I clarify that we cannot control the naturally occurring thoughts in our minds. Our brains are inherently busy, constantly generating thoughts regardless of our desires. The key to emotional well-being lies not in the futile attempt to banish unwanted thoughts, but in recognizing that our focus—what we choose to dwell on—plays a pivotal role in shaping our emotional landscape. This brings us to the heart of the issue: the more we try to evade certain thoughts, the more they intensify, leading to resistance and anxiety rather than the calm we seek.


    I introduce the concept of ironic process theory, which explains how suppression of thoughts only magnifies them. When we declare, “Do not think about this,” our brains paradoxically go into alert mode, hyper-focusing on that very thought. I use relatable examples to illustrate this phenomenon, such as the classic "don't think about a pink elephant." By advising ourselves to avoid certain thoughts, we propel them into our forefront, transforming minor worries into overwhelming mental struggles.


    #Anxiety

    #Mindfulness

    #MentalHealth

    #StressManagement

    #CBT

    #ACT

    #EmotionalRegulation

    #IntrusiveThoughts

    #Rumination

    #Worry

    #ThoughtControl

    #SelfHelp

    #PersonalDevelopment

    #AnxietyPodcast

    #RAINmethod

    #GinaRyan

    #ACP

    #AnxietyCoachesPodcast

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    5 March 2025, 9:00 pm
  • 21 minutes 20 seconds
    1120: Introduction to The Pause Practice: Training Yourself to Slow Down And Reset

    In today's episode, Gina shares a pleasant guided meditation to help slow your mind and discover more peace and stillness in the present moment. Use this episode as an opportunity to pause, reflect and reset for enhanced resilience moving forward. Discovering the power of stillness, which you have access to essentially always, can help you make better choices and live more peacefully. 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 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

    0:42 Introduction to Pause Practice

    2:50 The Importance of Being Present

    5:53 Body Awareness and Relaxation

    8:03 Exploring the Practice of Pausing

    10:23 Breathing and Stillness

    13:14 Reflecting on Your Experience

    14:45 Integrating the Pause into Daily Life

    Summary

    In today's episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the importance of developing a pause practice, guiding listeners through a profound meditation designed to cultivate a sense of calm and reset amidst the chaos of everyday life. As we navigate a world that demands our constant attention, we often find ourselves swept away by a relentless tide of tasks and thoughts, leaving little room for introspection or rest. This episode serves as an invitation to hit the pause button and reconnect with ourselves.


    I begin by addressing the common experience of being overwhelmed by stress and reactivity, where we fail to grant ourselves permission to simply stop and reflect. The essence of this episode is rooted in the transformative power of slowing down, even in brief moments throughout our day. I guide listeners to envision what it might feel like to step away from the rush and take a deep breath, allowing time for observation and resolution. This meditation centers on fostering awareness of the space that exists between stimuli and our responses, a crucial pause that can significantly enhance our emotional well-being.


    Throughout this guided meditation, I encourage participants to find a comfortable position and embrace the present moment. By focusing on the natural rhythm of their breath and allowing tension to dissipate, I lead them through a body scan, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. As we journey through each breath, I emphasize the significance of being attentive to our surroundings and our internal states. This practice not only aids in reducing stress but also facilitates clarity and presence, essential tools when navigating challenging situations.

    #guidedmeditation #mindfulness #anxietyrelief #stressreduction #relaxation #pausepractice #presentmomentawareness #emotionalregulation #wellbeing #mentalhealth #selfcare #calm #clarity #resilience #nervoussystemregulation #anxietycoach #meditation #mindfulnesspractice #innerpeace #stressmanagement #emotionalhealth #mentalwellness #healthyliving #selfcompassion #pause #slowdown #reset #GinaRyan #ACP #anxietycoachespodcast

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    2 March 2025, 2:00 pm
  • 27 minutes 31 seconds
    1119: Your Mind's Role in Anxiety: Recognizing and Changing Thought Patterns

    In today's episode, Gina covers some powerful tips for changing thought patterns that contribute to our anxiety formation. Through understanding how our mind can so easily gravitate to negative thoughts, thoughts that we are so often absolutely certain are true, we can change them and steer ourselves towards better thinking and feeling. This process is largely one of identification and replacement. Learn how to do this, 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 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:

    Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it.

    -Kahlil Gibran

    Chapters

    0:42 Introduction to Anxiety and Mind

    1:44 Common Thinking Patterns in Anxiety

    4:04 Catastrophizing and Fearing the Worst

    6:40 Mind Reading and Fortune Telling

    8:38 Negative Self-Talk and Its Effects

    11:31 Understanding Black and White Thinking

    13:05 Emotional Reasoning and Its Impact

    14:22 The Burden of Should Statements

    16:02 Personalization and Blame

    16:48 Filtering Negative Thoughts

    17:07 Shifting Your Thinking Patterns

    21:08 Practicing Mindfulness and Gratitude

    Summary

    In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the critical role our minds play in managing anxiety, focusing on recognizing and transforming detrimental thought patterns. I explore the ways in which our habitual thinking can trigger stress and worry, and I emphasize the possibility of shifting these mental frameworks to cultivate greater peace of mind.


    We begin by identifying some common anxiety-inducing thought patterns that many listeners can relate to. I kick off with the concept of "catastrophizing"—the tendency to expect the worst without any real evidence backing our fears. Drawing on my own experiences, I share how this all-or-nothing mindset can leave us perpetually on edge, waiting for disaster to strike. From there, I discuss overgeneralizing, where past negative experiences unfairly color our expectations of future situations, thus trapping us in a cycle of anxiety.


    The discussion continues with the pitfalls of mind reading, where we erroneously assume we understand what others are thinking about us. This often leads to unnecessary self-doubt, compounded by fortune telling, which involves predicting negative outcomes without basis. I highlight the physical responses these patterns invoke, particularly focusing on how our nervous systems react and create a feedback loop of anxiety.

    #anxiety #thoughtpatterns #cognitivedistortions #mentalhealth #selfhelp #mindfulness #stressmanagement #emotionalregulation #CBT #anxietyrelief #worry #fear #negativethinking #selftalk #emotionalreasoning #catastrophizing #overgeneralizing #mindreading #fortunetelling #personalization #filtering #shouldstatements #blackandwhitethinking #selfcompassion #gratitude #visualization #mentalrehearsal

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    26 February 2025, 9:00 pm
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