In this conversation, Pam and Sarah discuss anxiety through the lens of the book 'Unwinding Anxiety' by Dr. Jud Brewer. They share their personal experiences with anxiety and how it affects their lives. They explore the concept of anxiety as a habit and the habit loop that reinforces anxious behaviors.
They discuss the physical manifestations of anxiety and the role of self-judgment in perpetuating anxiety. They delve into the process of retraining the brain, including awareness, identifying the reward, and practicing mindfulness and curiosity. They explore the concept of interest curiosity and how it can be fostered to reduce anxiety.
Takeaways
- Anxiety is a common experience that affects everyone to some degree.
- Anxiety is a habit that is reinforced by the habit loop of trigger, behavior, and result.
- Self-judgment and feelings of guilt can reinforce anxiety habits.
- Retraining the brain involves awareness, identifying the reward, and practicing mindfulness and curiosity.
- Interest curiosity can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of openness and enjoyment.
- Practicing curiosity and using physical actions like opening the eyes wide can help break the anxiety habit loop.
- Anxiety is a part of life, and it is important to accept and navigate it rather than seeking an anxiety-free utopia.
Links:
Unwinding Anxiety / Dr. Jud's site
CliftonStrengths
Pigeon study that turned them into gamblers
Sarah's site
