A fresh take on anxiety: calm the body first, not just the mind
This preview is based on the episode notes, not the full audio. In this Bitesize clip, Dr Russell Kennedy shares a body-first perspective on anxiety, arguing that worry may be more symptom than root cause and offering practical ways to start interrupting the cycle.
This episode looks like a concise introduction to a different way of thinking about anxiety. Based on the show notes, Dr Russell Kennedy draws on both professional expertise and personal experience, having previously lived with severe anxiety for decades. The central idea previewed here is simple but striking: anxiety may not primarily be a problem of thinking, even though it often shows up as racing thoughts and worry. Instead, the notes suggest Kennedy sees those mental patterns as symptoms that keep people stuck in their heads and disconnected from what is happening in the body. If that perspective interests you, this clip may be especially useful. The notes indicate that the conversation focuses on why it can be more effective to calm the body in order to settle the mind, rather than trying to think your way out of anxiety. It also promises practical strategies for beginning to break the anxiety cycle, which could make this a good listen for anyone looking for actionable ideas rather than theory alone. Because this is a Bitesize episode, expect a shorter, distilled segment rather than a full deep dive. If you want a quick, accessible listen on anxiety that blends neuroscience, lived experience, and practical tools, this preview suggests it may be worth your time. As noted in the show description, this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
About this episode
A lot of people are struggling with anxiety at the moment, especially in a world that often feels out of control. Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I’ll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests. Today’s clip is from episode 370 of the podcast with physician and neuroscientist, Dr Russell Kennedy, who previously suffered with crippling anxiety for over 30 years. Russell insists anxiety isn’t a disorder of the mind. Our worries are merely a symptom - and one that keeps us in our heads and away from the real problem. His core message is that it’s often more effective to use the body to calm the mind, than the mind to calm the body. In this clip, he explains why anxiety may have less to do with our thoughts than we realise, and shares practical strategies that could help us begin breaking the anxiety cycle. For Thrive Tour tickets and info visit: https://drchatterjee.com/live/ Join my 21-day energy reset: https://drchatterjee.com/reset Show notes and the full podcast are available at drchatterjee.com/370 Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.