PodcastsHealth & WellnessThe Anxiety Coaches Podcast

The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

Gina Ryan
The Anxiety Coaches Podcast
Latest episode

1969 episodes

  • The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    1220: Why Your Anxiety Sometimes Feels Worse After Relaxing

    2/15/2026 | 19 mins.
    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.
  • The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    1219: Classic ACP Benefits of Solitude for the Anxious

    2/11/2026 | 21 mins.
    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.
  • The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    1218: What Happens To Anxiety When You Stop Drinking: Even Temporarily

    2/08/2026 | 16 mins.
    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.
  • The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    1217: When Healing From Anxiety Becomes Another Job

    2/04/2026 | 20 mins.
    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.
  • The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

    1216: Healing Anxiety Fatigue: When You're Tired of Working on Yourself Meditation

    2/01/2026 | 17 mins.
    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.

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About The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

The Anxiety Coaches Podcast brings you a relaxing and inspiring show sharing lifestyle changes to calm your nervous system and help you heal Anxiety, Panic, Stress, and PTSD for life!We Bring you two episodes every week. There is no need to walk this path alone. Subscribe for a relaxing, informative, and inspiring time and start your journey into more peace and calm today.Find meditations, info about stress, anxiety, healthy living, and more at https://www.theanxietycoachespodcast.comListen Ad-Free for less than $0.17 per day! https://anxietycoaches.supercast.com 
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