Brain Shift - A Conversation About Chronic Stress & Wellness With Dr. Romie Mushtaq

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com Welcome to episode 392 of "The OCD and Anxiety Podcast", where we delve deep into understanding the causes of OCD. By knowing the root causes, we can be more optimistic about potential strategies we can adapt to manage, and perhaps overcome, this disorder. In this comprehensive discussion, we navigate through biological factors, genetics, chemical imbalances, psychological factors, social triggers, and even work environments. Our journey to understanding begins with a look at brain structures and how the brains of people with OCD show measurable differences compared to those without. These differences can be traced back to a higher flow of oxygenated blood to certain areas, indicating high levels of worrying characteristic of OCD. As we try to determine the hereditary nature of these differences, we move onto our second stop: genetic factors. Despite the emphasis on locating specific risk genes, the complex interplay between learned behaviours and the environment could also contribute to the development of OCD. The role of chemical imbalances, specifically serotonin, comes next. It might not be the root cause, but serotonin appears instrumental in maintaining OCD signs, highlighting potential treatment ways. Our understanding is further sharpened as we dive into psychological aspects, where behavioral theories, cognitive theories, mindfulness & acceptance commitment therapy each play their crucial part. The role of depression and personality traits in exacerbating OCD also warrants mention here. Lastly, we explore social factors. How everyday stress or major life events can trigger OCD in the predisposed, how OCD can strain relationships, causing more stress and feelings of isolation, and even how it can affect work productivity. If you're grappling with OCD or anxiety and interested in a free session, head over to my website robertjamescoaching.com to book one. Join me in this insightful episode and remember, with the right support and help, it is possible to manage OCD more effectively. Change your experience of OCD today! References •Beyond OCD. (2013). Clinical Definition of OCD. https://beyondocd.org/information-for-individuals/clinical-definition-of-ocd •Caleb, W.L., Challis, C., Pelling, N. (January 2008). The biopsychosocial aspects of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A primer for practitioners. Australian Counselling Association Journal. 8(1). 3-13. •Center for Disease Control. (July 2023). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children. United States Government. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/ocd.html •National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Obsessive-compulsive disorder. United States Government. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd •OCD UK. (2024). What Causes OCD. https://www.ocduk.org/ocd/what-causes-ocd/   Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.  

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   In episode 391 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, we delve into the powerful realm of hypnotherapy with our guest, Jenni Bell. As an experienced hypnotherapist who specializes in addiction recovery and reshaping relationships with food, Jenni shares her personal journey of struggling with anxiety and PTSD and how it led her to a fulfilling career in hypnotherapy. Drawing from thought leaders in the field like Gabor Maté and Joe Dispenza, she offers unique insights into the beneficial aspects of hypnotherapy for anxiety and OCD. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of techniques used in hypnotherapy, such as regression, that can help address underlying traumas often associated with anxiety disorders. Jenni brings light to the harsh realities of childhood trauma, emphasizing how the human mind can often exaggerate threats perceived during our formative years. Hear about the shortcomings of traditional responses to trauma and her exploration into alternative therapies like NLP and Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT). This episode covers Jenni's extraordinary journey full of insights on managing anxiety, the workings of hypnotherapy, and its potential in reshaping your relationship with anxiety. This high impact discussion is packed with practical advice and encouragement for anyone on a path to better mental health, be they a patient, a professional, or a loved one of someone battling anxiety disorders. For those keen on exploring hypnotherapy as part of their healing journey, Jenni Bell welcomes interactive conversations. Reach out via her website: https://www.jennibell.co.uk Via Social: https://www.facebook.com/JenniBellHypnotherapyRTT/ https://www.instagram.com/jennibell.hypno Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences. -In this episode the guest speaks about her personal opinions on medication. If you are thinking about changing your medication or stopping, always speak with your doctor first before doing anything.       

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 390 of 'The OCD and Anxiety Podcast' by Robert James Coaching. In today's episode, we explore the impactful role of time in our lives, particularly when trying to manage and overcome disorders such as OCD and anxiety. Together, we look at how to make up for 'lost time', focusing on the resentment and frustration that may arise from believing that these disorders have stolen key moments from our lives. However, it's vital to remember that focusing on the past too much can prevent us from enjoying the present and blight our future. This podcast emphasizes the importance of managing our perspective, especially when dealing with mental health issues such as OCD and anxiety. It emphasizes resilience, positivity, and a growth mindset, along with practical techniques such as postponement and exposure. Remember, being present in our lives, even when anxiety and uncertainty are present, can open the door to beautiful, unforgettable memories. In this episode, we learn how to do just that. We learn to acknowledge our past struggles without allowing them to dictate our future experiences. We also consider the damaging effects of perfectionism and how we can temper it for a healthier, more balanced life. It’s about appreciating life’s moments as they come, letting go of the need for 'perfect' experiences. Join us for an engaging and insightful examination of time, living in the present, and learning to navigate anxiety and OCD in a healthy and positive manner Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.    

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 389 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, your reliable source shedding light on how to positively cope with anxiety disorders. Guided by our experienced host, it offers invaluable insights on reclaiming your life from the clutches of fear. This episode underscores the need for action against OCD and Anxiety, pointing out the trap many fall into as they wait for perfect circumstances before pushing ahead. Drawing from Pablo Picasso's wisdom, we illustrate how action dismantles OCD's dominion over us, using Tony Robbins' endorsement of "massive determined actions". We also caution against compulsions that provide temporary relief but reinforce OCD's hold. The call to action is for you to delve into your fears and start leading a life controlled by your choices, not anxiety. We emphasize the urgency of tackling OCD, not delaying due to discomfort, but instead learning to accept anxiety as a normal, manageable facet of life. We delve deeper into Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), an effective cognitive-behavioral approach that empowers individuals to live with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. The essence of ACT lies in freeing oneself from the necessity to eradicate distress before taking action. We further explore the effectiveness of exposure work, another cognitive-behavioral technique aimed at building the capacity to confront challenging emotions intentionally. This episode presents insightful perspectives on how ACT and exposure work can help OCD sufferers not merely cope but thrive despite distressing situations. Leveraging insights from Steven Pressfield's 'The War of Art,' we elucidate the concept of resistance in the context of OCD, emphasizing the importance of altering our view of resistance from barrier to catalyst. We extend advice and encouragement to those yearning to escape the OCD-induced cycle of rumination and progress towards an anxiety-managed life. Whether you are grappling with OCD or keen on understanding it, this episode equips you with practical tips and techniques that can foster personal development and resilience Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.  

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 388 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast. Learn from expert, Dr. Romie, a board-certified physician with over two decades of experience in integrative medicine, mindfulness, and neurology. Discover her award-winning program, 'Brain Shift', aimed at improving mental health and developing a culture of wellness. In this episode, we explore maintaining stress, navigating life's challenges, battling burnout, defining success, cultivating optimism, and more. Dr. Romie Mushtaq is a board-certified physician who brings together more than two decades of leadership in neurology, integrative medicine, and mindfulness. She is an award-winning speaker working with Fortune 500 companies, professional athletes, & global associations. Her brainSHIFT programs improve mental well-being and help to build a culture of wellness. Dr. Romie serves as Chief Wellness Officer for Great Wolf Resorts. Her expertise is featured in the national media, such as NPR, NBC, TED talks, and Forbes. Her first book, "The Busy Brain Cure" is being published by Harper Collins in January 2024. You can learn more at drromie.com or join the brainSHIFT movement @drromie on social media. Unveil the concept of the 'busy brain', a state of hyperactivity due to chronic neuroinflammation leading to adult-onset ADHD, anxiety, and insomnia. Learn about the importance of balanced hormone levels, markers of inflammation, role of sleep, and 'Brain Shift Protocol'. Gain insights into understanding your body's cry for help and steps to regain control over mental and physical well-being. Find out about the power of self-compassion and its effect on calming an overactive mind and nurturing mental health. Dr. Romi provides tips on how to replace anxiety and fear with hope for compassionate interactions towards self and others. Also, glance into the spiritual element in the journey towards mental wellness and its role in healing. For individuals battling with anxiety, OCD, or a busy brain, this episode presents a comforting reminder that you're not alone. Listen to gain reassurance, hope, and practical advice. Take the first step into your journey of transformation – from a busy brain to a calm, focused mind Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.      

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 387 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast! As we near our 400th episode, we're taking a look at patience and our relationship to it, especially when dealing with complex challenges like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Inspired by our coach Robert James, we are going to explore various ways we can cultivate patience and turn frustrating setbacks into opportunities for growth. This episode delves deep into the often turbulent journey of dealing with OCD. We'll talk about the highs and lows that come with the disorder, how to manage impatience during recovery, and the importance of acknowledging setbacks as a normal part of progress. We'll also touch on vital strategies, such as exercising self-compassion and understanding the unpredictability of life. Often, when we're making progress with OCD, it seems like triggers increase rather than decrease. This could be our brain trying to lead us back to old, familiar habits. Recognizing and resisting this can be crucial in smoothly navigating the path to recovery. The episode also explores this phenomenon, drawing insights from acceptance commitment therapy, exposure work, and the teachings of Carl Jung. As we journey through this discussion, you'll learn how to cultivate patience effectively. By accepting the challenging emotions that come with setbacks and resisting the urge to feed our frustrations, we can actually come out stronger and more determined to fight OCD. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that aims to empower you with practical tools and the mindset you need to combat impatience and setbacks in your journey with OCD. Start living the life you choose, not the one chosen by your fears. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.    

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 386 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast, the show that provides insight, positivity, and empowerment for dealing with anxiety disorders, brought to you by Robert James Coaching. In this episode, we delve into the powerful role that judgment plays in intensifying the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We shine a light on the destructive impact of our inner critic, revealing how it feeds on our self-esteem and propels us into a cycle of negative self-judgments. We uncover the nature of the inner critic as a part of our psyche, one that does not reason or empathize but instead instigates attacks and criticism. Take a journey with us into the realm of the inner critic and its relationship with self-esteem. Embrace the realization that while the inner critic might make us feel vulnerable, we can learn to release judgment and permit acceptance to evolve. Get clarity on the illusion of control associated with OCD and dispel a few common misconceptions about self-esteem and OCD. With insightful advice and pragmatic strategies at your fingertips, this episode is a valuable guide for anyone dealing with OCD or trying to comprehend their internal dialogue better. By the end of this episode, you will understand that the journey isn't about eliminating the inner critic but fostering a healthier relationship with it. Remember, you are not alone in this struggle. Boosting Self-Esteem Amidst Social Media Pressure and Judgment In today's episode, we also explore the unsettling influence of social media on self-esteem. Given our age of constant online sharing, we live in an era where people frequently showcase their best moments or traits, painting an artificial portrait of continuous happiness and success. This portrayal inevitably leads to comparisons and self-judgment, skewing our self-perception in a negative light. Compounded by a consumerist culture that ties fulfillment and happiness to material possessions, we dissect how these projected expectations and social comparisons give rise to anxiety disorders like OCD. We underscore the importance of self-compassion and awareness amid these superficial societal expectations, and how journaling can prove to be a useful tool for introspection. Useful resources and free sessions are available on our website to assist you in navigating through these emotional challenges. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.  

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to The OCD and Anxiety Podcast. The aim of this podcast is to encourage individuals who are battling with anxiety disorders, specifically Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and equip them with tools to have a more positive approach towards their conditions and the confidence to start living the life they choose. In today's podcast, we discuss a rather challenging topic - navigating OCD with confidence. Many times, people struggling with OCD and anxiety fail to maintain their confidence, hence, making it harder for them to manage their disorders.Regardless, it is crucial to build and maintain a positive outlook and inner strength to overcome adversity just as Helen Keller and many others did. We understand that taking on the challenge of OCD requires resolve, resilience, and inner strength. Therefore, this episode stresses the importance of practicing different therapy techniques such as exposure work, acceptance commitment therapy, and building confidence in oneself. Included are inspirational quotes, personal experiences, and plausible solutions to keep you motivated and hopeful. We assure you that no matter what stage of life you are in, maintaining balance in all areas of life is crucial. When life is interesting, you are less likely to get caught up in anxious thoughts. Also, being compassionate to oneself goes hand-in-hand with the quest to gain more confidence while navigating OCD. Whether or not you are successful in initially building this confidence, it is okay. What's important is that you do not stop trying. Eventually, with time, it will get easier and hopefully tell positively on managing the OCD. Remember, you can always reach out for a free session. Just head to the website www.robertjamescoaching.com and leave a message. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.        

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to episode 384 of The OCD and Anxiety Podcast. Today, I'll be discussing the topic of why some individuals seem to be more inclined towards developing OCD and obsessive behaviour. In this episode, I delve into the concept of 'nature versus nurture,' explaining how both genetics and environmental influences play crucial roles in predisposing us to OCD and anxiety disorders. I shed light on the complexities of OCD, emphasising how our daily lifestyle, surrounding environment, and level of childhood trauma can contribute to our nervous systems becoming more sensitive and anxious. I also explore the fascinating subject of epigenetics. This emerging field of science studies how our behaviours and environment can trigger changes that affect the way our genes work, which can sometimes be passed on to future generations. It offers a hopeful outlook for those of us wrestling with OCD, as it suggests the power of our environment to switch on or off certain genetic tendencies. And while it's crucial to acknowledge our inherited dispositions towards anxious thinking, it's equally essential to remember that our destiny is not fixed. A key focus of the podcast is the message of hope. I believe that, regardless of how long you've been struggling with OCD or how deeply rooted your fears may seem, you can change the narrative. OCD may feel like a trap, but through acknowledgement, acceptance, informed strategies, and sustained practice, you can shift behaviour patterns, attain emotional resilience, and alter your nervous system responses. Join me in this episode for an enlightening discussion on OCD, its underlying causes, and the hope for transformation despite its challenges Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.    

Book your free session directly, visit: www.robertjamescoaching.com   Want to support the podcast in return for exclusive content and more access to me? Check out my Patreon tiers, any help is much appreciated :) www.patreon.com/user?u=88044382 Welcome to Episode 383 of The OCD & Anxiety Podcast where we dive into the complexities of living with OCD and anxiety. In this episode, we begin by recognizing the daily struggles one faces when dealing with these disorders, and provide an easy way to access free support through robertjamescoaching.com. Diving into our main topic, we discuss how difficult it can be when your OCD catches you off guard. In those moments, it feels more natural to give in to obsessions, performing rituals or compulsions, and ultimately gets stuck in an unproductive cycle. Throughout this episode, we take a closer look at resisting these impulses and rather focusing on accepting discomfort rather than pushing it away. We also delve into the idea that OCD is often a way to suppress difficult emotions such as fear, anxiety, anger, guilt, and shame. People with OCD tend to push these feelings away, but we suggest a new approach of allowing these feelings to rise, acknowledging them and learning from the experience. We also discuss the concept of viewing OCD triggers more as challenges instead of threats and focusing more on overcoming them. In this episode, we introduce the concept of a 10 to 30 second rule to slowdown when experiencing a trigger. This means paying direct attention to the feeling of anxiety, not judging or pushing it away, but instead curiously observing the experience. Through this method, we encourage listeners to change their relationship with these difficult emotions to navigate these unexpected triggers better. As always, we wrap the episode with a reminder of our offer of a free session from robertjamescoaching.com and ensure listeners that the information in the podcast is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for actual medical or mental health advice. Disclaimer: Robert James Pizey (of Robert James Coaching) is not a medical professional and is also not providing therapy or medical treatment. Robert James Pizey recommends that anyone experiencing anxiety or OCD to seek professional medical help straight away to get a medical opinion and rule out other conditions or illnesses. The comments and opinions as written on this site are simply that and are not to be taken as professional medical opinions. Robert James Pizey provides coaching, education, accountability and peer support around Anxiety through his own personal experiences.