Dec. 17, 2025

1203: Holiday Anxiety Relief: 4 Proven Ways to Slow Down and Feel Calm

Show Notes

In today's episode, Gina shares methods for experiencing more peace and calm you can use during the holidays and beyond. The importance of understanding the "second arrow" concept is emphasized (the second arrow being the extra mental baggage and worry we attach to events in your environment, which we CAN have some control over). Slowing down and freeing ups time and space in our day are among some of the suggestions discussed. Listen in and know more peace and calm this holiday season!

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Quote:

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

-Lao Tzu

Chapters

0:26 Holiday Swirl and Mindful Moments

4:25 The Second Arrow Explained

6:49 Tools for Calming Your Mind

8:24 Creating Space for Peace

10:45 Letting Go of Unnecessary Commitments

12:31 Grounding Practice for the Rush

15:20 Community and Shared Journeys

Summary

In this episode of the Anxiety Coaches Podcast, I delve into the challenges that often arise during the bustling holiday season, a time filled with heightened expectations and packed schedules that can leave our sense of calm feeling very distant. I explore the concept of the "holiday swirl"—that unique blend of excitement and overwhelm where our peaceful moments seem to dwindle. The focus today is about how we can consciously remove the internal pressures that transform joyful gatherings and errands into sources of significant stress.

I introduce an essential tool in relieving that pressure: the principle of the second arrow. The first arrow represents the situation we find ourselves in—whether it’s being stuck in traffic, waiting in a long line, or dealing with unexpected weather. This is simply life happening in real time. The second arrow, however, is the additional mental anguish we attach to these circumstances—thoughts of self-blame, anxiety over timing, or a sense of impending chaos. I want to emphasize that this second arrow, the rush and frantic mindset, is an optional addition to our experiences.

The heart of my discussion encourages a shift in perception: the idea that breathing and embracing a slower pace can cultivate a sense of peace amidst the holiday fuss. I offer listeners a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and embrace the notion that “I'll get there when I get there.” This mindset is not an acceptance of defeat but rather an invitation to experience freedom from the pressures we place upon ourselves, resonating with Gandhi's wisdom that life is more than simply speeding through our tasks.

#HolidayStress

#AnxietyRelief

#SecondArrow

#MindfulnessPractice

#EmotionalRegulation

#SelfCareMatters

#StopTheRush

#PeacefulHolidays

#BreathingTechniques

#BuddhaBellyBreathing

#Grounding

#ProcrastinationHelp