409: Are You Afraid of Breathing?

409: Are You Afraid of Breathing?

Author: Robert Duff, Ph.D. August 9, 2024 Duration: 16:57

In this episode, Dr. Duff shares personal experiences and discusses the concept of being afraid of breathing. He highlights how anxiety and overthinking can lead to the sensation of not breathing properly. Dr. Duff explains how exposure therapy can be applied using breathing exercises to help alleviate these fears. He provides detailed instructions on different challenging breathing exercises like alternate nostril breathing, resonance breathing, and techniques inspired by the Wim Hof method and the Cradle series. The episode aims to help listeners gain comfort with discomfort and regain confidence in their breathing.

00:00 Introduction: Are You Afraid of Breathing?
00:02 A Personal Story of Breathing Anxiety
00:57 The Cycle of Anxiety and Breathing
01:50 Common Experiences and Avoidance
03:37 Using Breathing Exercises for Exposure
04:12 Understanding Exposure Therapy
07:38 Challenging Breathing Exercises
07:59 Alternate Nostril Breathing
10:40 Resonance Breathing
13:38 The Heaven and Earth Purification Wheel
15:16 Practicing in a Safe Space
16:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

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Robert Duff, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist who finds most self-help advice too sanitized to be useful. On The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych, he cuts through the fluff with a direct, science-backed approach. Each episode is built on the premise that real improvement requires honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Duff brings his background in neuroscience and clinical psychology to interviews with a wide range of fascinating guests, dissecting topics from mental health struggles and relationship dynamics to the latest brain research. Listeners consistently note his skill at asking pointed questions that get to the heart of an issue, then translating complex psychological concepts into language anyone can apply. This isn't about quick fixes or vague positivity; it's a practical, evidence-based look at how our minds work and how we can work with them better. The tone is conversational and grounded, like getting actionable advice from a knowledgeable friend who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Whether exploring anxiety, habits, or the science of motivation, this podcast delivers substance without the jargon, making professional insights accessible for everyday life. You'll find the discussions are both deeply informative and surprisingly relatable, a combination that has built a dedicated audience for Duff's unique perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
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