Episode 33: Trusting Yourself Through Anxiety: Working With Your Mind, Not Against It
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https://rss.com/podcasts/youatyourbest/2321214/
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Description:
This is an insight episode. Our brains lie to us — not because they hate us, but because they love us and want to protect us. That’s why intrusive thoughts and scary feelings appear — it's our brain’s way of keeping us safe from the things we don’t understand. But that doesn’t mean we have to let them control us.
I discuss:
- My journey with OCD and intrusive thoughts, especially in my romantic relationship (ROCD)
- How to stop letting anxiety control you through self-compassion
- How to work with your unconscious brain, not against it
- Why an off-day isn’t a setback, and how to find peace again when your mind feels like your enemy
- Fear mongering on social media & how to tell the difference between anxiety & intuition
Breakdown of what is discussed & additional thoughts:
- An old friend from high school messaged me and told me that she has been listening to my podcast, it has really benefited her, and inspires her to possibly start a podcast herself. Hearing from her was so special to me, not only because we are old friends, but also because it reminded me of how important this work with my podcast is. It made me feel so grateful for how far things have come, and how I am choosing to continue producing episodes, despite having obstacles.
- A time where my ROCD became overwhelming. I was at the mall with my boyfriend and our baby and my mind kept on convincing me that he is bad, he is evil, and he hates me, despite his actions proving the opposite. I recall a time during that day where we were in the bookstore and he showed me a manga, recommending that I read it. My OCD told me that he was showing me the book, not because he loves it, but because he wants to change me. So, I lashed out at him, without realizing that this was my anxiety talking, not me. I had to later apologize once I realized what really happened. I also talk about the guilt I felt after the incident occurred.
- Practical tips on how to work with with your brain, rather than against it:
- Affirmations to tell yourself when your anxiety is high:
Journal Prompt of the Week:
In what ways have you already proven that you can trust yourself again?