logo
episode-header-image
Nov 2024
52m 43s

Doing Nothing (About Anxiety) Is A Good ...

Drew Linsalata
About this episode

Send in a question or comment via text.

Unlock the secret to mastering your mental well-being by embracing the art of doing nothing. Join us as we explore this transformative concept with the insightful Joanna Hardis, an OCD and anxiety specialist from Cleveland. We delve into concepts  rooted in Taoism and Buddhism that challenge the relentless drive for constant activity in Western cultures. Learn how surrendering to anxiety and panic attacks, without the urge to fix or solve, can lead to a more harmonious relationship with your mental health.

Joanna and I shatter the misconceptions surrounding "doing nothing".  Instead of avoidance or inactivity, this practice encourages stepping back to achieve clarity and presence, especially crucial for those grappling with anxiety disorders. Through personal anecdotes, we unravel how societal pressures and our own mental doing modes—like incessant planning and judging—can cloud our mental space. Discover how being present and accepting the moment can significantly boost your mental well-being.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into mindfulness, spotlighting everyday practices such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and attention training. We examine the challenges of integrating mindfulness into daily life, emphasizing the need for patience and openness. By becoming more aware of mundane activities, we illustrate how mindfulness can be a powerful tool in stress reduction and overall well-being. Whether it's learning to navigate unfavorable circumstances or making mindful choices amidst societal pressures, this episode is a heartfelt guide on how to embrace stillness in a bustling world.

For more on Joanna Hardis:
https://joannahardis.com

For full show notes on this episode:
https://theanxioustruth.com/305

Support The Anxious Truth: If you find the podcast helpful and want to support my work, you can buy me a coffee. Other ways to support my work like buying a book or signing up for a low cost workshop can be found on my website. None of this is never required, but always appreciated!

Interested in doing therapy with me? For more information on working with me directly to overcome your anxiety, follow this link.

Disclaimer: The Anxious Truth is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. Listening to The Anxious Truth does not create a therapeutic relationship between you and the host or guests of the podcast. Information here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care providers. If you are having a mental health crisis, always reach out immediately for in-person help.

Up next
Aug 13
Exposure For Anxiety: Common Misconceptions and Mistakes | Ep 323
Send in a question or comment via text.Exposure for anxiety is the gold standard treatment for anxiety disorders, but most people get it wrong, especially when trying to use exposure without professional help. In this episode, we're breaking down why so many people struggle with ... Show More
30m 22s
Jul 30
Agoraphobia to Astrophotography: A Recovery Story | EP 322
Send in a question or comment via text.For 25 years of my life, I struggled with panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, and depression. I was so anxious that I couldn't leave my house or be alone for more than a few minutes at a time. But last week, I finally did something I've wanted ... Show More
24m 19s
Jul 16
When Your Mind Becomes Its Own Worst Enemy | EP 321
Send in a question or comment via text.This week on The Anxious Truth, we're talking about what happens when a problem solving mind sees itself as a problem to solve.Your mind is an incredible problem-solving machine - it's what sets humans apart and has helped us thrive for thou ... Show More
21m 48s
Recommended Episodes
Nov 2024
#168 Understanding Anxiety: Insights From A Leading Anxiety Therapist
💌 Join My LIVE Monthly Workshops for FREE! - https://shivani-pau.circle.so/checkout/join-the-connective In this weeks episode of A Millennial Mind Podcast, I sit down with anxiety expert Josh Fletcher to explore the complex world of anxiety. Anxiety is such a trending topic, it' ... Show More
1h 13m
Oct 2024
1076: How to Stay Present in Life’s Anxious Storms
In today's episode, Gina discusses tools to help you stay in the present moment, even amidst the great stress and chaos life can throw at us. Many of these exercises can be put to use in your journal, including reflection to help identify anxiety triggers. Other suggestions inclu ... Show More
26m 40s
Nov 2019
Podcast - letting anxiety go
Todays podcast helps you relax and unwind before a guided session on releiving anxiety, gifting you the techniques to live a happier, more controlled and stress free life. With regular practice you will leave anxiety behind and become a beacon of inspiration to those around you. ... Show More
25m 21s
May 26
Why Anxiety Symptoms Aren’t the Enemy (Health Anxiety Help)
Take advantage of our Memorial Day Sale on all The Anxiety Guy Recovery Programs by using the code Memorial30 at https://www.TheAnxietyGuy.com Today. Podcast description: In this powerful episode of The Anxiety Guy Podcast, Dennis shares a deeply relatable and practical path forw ... Show More
14m 43s
Oct 2024
1073: Classic ACP Anxiety Self Care Where To Begin
In today's episode, Gina discusses some of the core fundamentals of self-care. By keeping the needs of our mind, body and spirit met, we are better able to manage our well-being and any anxiety symptoms we may experience. Listen in for tips on how to keep yourself well cared for ... Show More
23m 32s
May 8
Why Anxiety Makes You Question Everything (And What to Do Instead) | Self Doubt, Rumination & Anxious Thoughts
Anxiety doesn’t just make you feel uncomfortable — it makes you question everything. In this short, calming episode, we explore the exhausting cycle of overthinking, mental checking, and self-doubt that anxiety creates — and why trying to answer every single anxious question only ... Show More
7m 54s
Dec 2024
250 | 1 Game Changing Phrase For When You're Feeling Anxious: A Psychology Backed Mental Wellness Tool to Quiet Your Inner Critic In Moments of Anxiety & Overwhelm
In today’s episode I’m sharing with you a phrase that is going to change the game with anxiety.  I used to get so upset when I felt those anxious thoughts coming in, so not only was I anxious, but now I’m also upset at myself for being anxious.  I’m going to share with you a phra ... Show More
16m 48s
Feb 2025
How to Manage Stress & Anxiety for Stronger Self-Esteem
In this episode of The Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest challenges to personal growth—stress and anxiety. Whether you're dealing with work pressure, self-doubt, or daily life struggles, learning how to manage stress effectively is key t ... Show More
13m 47s
Feb 2025
258 | "No, Self Compassion Won't Make You Lazy" & 3 Journal Prompts to Reach Your Top Personal Growth Goals With Less Stress & Anxiety
ACTIVATE: THE MEMBERSHIP |ACTIVATE is your go to hub for tools & community to help you regulate your nervous system, create healthy daily habits & become your best self through faith, mental wellness & yoga.Throughout the month, you get journal prompts, audio trainings, breathing ... Show More
19m 57s
Feb 2024
Unraveling Your Health Anxiety Beliefs For Authentic Freedom
To learn more about the Health Anxiety University Click Here and head over to the 'Membership' menu item. Unraveling your health anxiety beliefs allows you to delve into the root causes of your anxieties. This understanding is crucial for addressing underlying issues effectively ... Show More
9m 5s