Meet Dr. Ellen Vora–holistic psychiatrist, yoga teacher, acupuncturist, self-proclaimed “witch” and all-around fantastic human. If only all of our psychiatrists (and doctors) thought like she does! You do not want to miss this episode in which we discuss her own healing journey as well as her new book, The Anatomy of Anxiety. Our convo is funny, poignant, and very thought-provoking.
About Dr. Vora:
Ellen Vora, MD received her B.A. from Yale University and attended Columbia University medical school. She’s a board-certified psychiatrist, medical acupuncturist, and yoga teacher. Dr. Vora takes a functional medicine approach to mental health—considering the whole person and addressing imbalance at the root, rather than reflexively prescribing medication. In addition to her private practice and speaking engagements, Dr. Vora consults for healthcare startups and has written a book called The Anatomy of Anxiety.
Oh my stars!!! I’m so glad to have listened to this podcase. (I do not know why every word starts with a capital. Some glitch in my computer). In the past 6 months, my psychiatrist (PA) has tried 4-5 different meds. None helped and caused such terrible side effects that I just couldn’t take them. A couple of them actually caused an increase in the anxiety. I was told that I just couldn’t be that sensitive to all the meds. So, I took myself off the last one, moved out of what I’m now sure was the root cause of my anxiety and am better. Still have anxiety (about the final move I have to make in a couple of months) but am able to walk/talk myself through it….most days. And this panic Button on this website….so so helpful. Thank you for this podcast!!!
Hi there. This is Abs, and I am going to sit with you for a bit while we get this anxiety under control. If it helps, you can close your eyes and hear my voice, or, if you’d prefer, you can read along on your screen.
Before we begin, let me just say that I know how uncomfortable you are right now. It’s really awful to be taken over by anxiety but, I promise you, I have been there many times, and I am 100% confident that you will get through this episode. I am going to help you. You are not alone.
First, take a breath in through your nose as deeply as you can; then release it through your mouth with a whooshing sound. This is a calming breath—the intake of oxygen signals your brain that it needs to send out some “feel good” chemicals. Let’s see if we can get those to kick in.
Take another breath.
Now, this is going to sound weird, but try not to resist the panic—don’t try to cut it off or stop it in any way. Panic operates in a cycle: the more time you spend trying to stop it, the more intense it gets. You know how they say you have to ride the wave instead of fight it? Well here is your wave…just go with it. You will not drown.
Take another breath.
Next, start talking to yourself—out loud works best. Tell yourself, “this too shall pass” or “I am okay.” Keep saying the words over and over again.
Another breath.
Are you still talking? Good. Now try to make yourself more comfortable. Loosen anything constraining you, like a bra or tight jeans or even a hair scrunchie. Naked, if possible, is good.
Breathe.
Okay, last step: cool down. Panic tends to produce heat so grab a cold washcloth or icepack. Splash cold water on your face and neck. Blast the a/c. If it is cool out, you may want to take a walk.
Keep repeating your mantra and stay cool (literally) until your body starts to regulate.
Suzanne Bice
Oh my stars!!! I’m so glad to have listened to this podcase. (I do not know why every word starts with a capital. Some glitch in my computer). In the past 6 months, my psychiatrist (PA) has tried 4-5 different meds. None helped and caused such terrible side effects that I just couldn’t take them. A couple of them actually caused an increase in the anxiety. I was told that I just couldn’t be that sensitive to all the meds. So, I took myself off the last one, moved out of what I’m now sure was the root cause of my anxiety and am better. Still have anxiety (about the final move I have to make in a couple of months) but am able to walk/talk myself through it….most days. And this panic Button on this website….so so helpful. Thank you for this podcast!!!