Download my FREE the Strong and Steady Nervous System Regulation Workbook a free guide designed to help you regulate your nervous system when anxiety and self-criticism take over, here: www.mybloomingheart.com

In this heartfelt episode of the Peace Grows Here Podcast, I dive deep into how self-understanding can pave the way for self-compassion.

I share personal stories from my own healing journey with anxiety and explore how critical thoughts can become self-perpetuating cycles.

I'll offer you a framework for breaking out of self-criticism and fostering self-compassion by understanding the interaction between your nervous system and mind.

Main Talking Points

• The Cycle of Anxiety and Self-Criticism:

  How anxiety feeds self-critical thoughts and vice versa.

• The Role of the Nervous System in Anxiety:

  How dysregulation increases self-critical thinking and why regulating the nervous system first is crucial for clear thinking.

• Self-Understanding as Key:

  Learning about yourself is the first step toward healing and cultivating self-compassion.

• Self-Compassion vs. Self-Criticism:

  How to replace critical thoughts with compassion, and why it’s so transformative.

• Practical Tool for Handling Anxiety:

  A simple technique from Compassion-Focused Therapy to regulate anxiety in the moment, including a self-compassion exercise that acknowledges your struggle and invites gentle self-care.

• Regulate First, Think Later:

  How slowing down and regulating your nervous system can help you reengage more effectively with problem-solving rather than sinking into self-criticism.

• The Danger of Comparison:

  How comparing yourself to others can fuel self-criticism, particularly as an entrepreneur.

  Resources for you to explore:

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT):

  Inspired by Buddhist principles, CFT is a therapy that helps cultivate self-compassion and manage anxiety. I’ll be citing some CFT resources in the show notes.

• Three-Step Self-Compassion Practice:

  A simple technique for grounding yourself in moments of stress or anxiety. Involves acknowledging your struggle, recognizing it's a part of the human experience, and asking yourself what you need to feel supported.

• The book "Unwinding Anxiety" by Judson Brewer is a helpful companion for those looking to dive deeper into the roots of anxiety and how to manage it effectively.