The Fear of Change Podcast

How to Recognize Chronic Anxiety

27 min · 20 de may de 2026
Portada del episodio How to Recognize Chronic Anxiety

Descripción

What if your anxiety isn't "all in your head," but a nervous system that's been stuck in survival mode for too long? How often do you pause long enough to notice what your body is trying to communicate? Could something as simple as your breath become the key to feeling safe, grounded, and regulated again? In this episode, I explore what chronic anxiety really is and how it often reflects a nervous system that has been stuck in survival mode for too long. I explain the basics of the autonomic nervous system and how polyvagal theory helps us understand the body's shifting states of fight, flight, freeze, and shutdown. I also discuss why breathwork can be such a powerful tool for nervous system regulation. We talk about heart rate variability (HRV), how intentional breathing signals safety to the body, and why practicing these techniques consistently helps us distinguish between real danger and perceived stress. Throughout the conversation, I share practical grounding exercises listeners can use daily to reconnect with themselves, slow down, and create a greater sense of calm and safety in their bodies. Thanks for listening, I'd love to connect with you over on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/innovativecounselingpartners/]. SHOW NOTES AND RESOURCES: Click here [https://thefearofchange.com/episode72-anxiety]

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