Science Meets Soul: Dr. Theresa Skaar on Dealing with Trauma, Anxiety & Panic Attacks
On today’s show, we’re providing some relief to stress, trauma, and panic attacks with our powerhouse guest, Dr. Theresa B. Skaar. If you’re facing life’s major transitions, struggling with anxiety or burnout, or just looking to understand how to cope with overwhelm in a healthier way, this conversation is for you.
Dr. Skaar holds a PhD in Social Psychology and is certified in both mind-body medicine and mindfulness-based stress reduction. In this episode, she opens up about her own unconventional journey from the corporate world to academia, sharing how life’s curveballs inspired her to help others grow through grief and trauma using evidence-based tools. Together, we explore the science—and soul—behind habit loops, anxiety, and the power of self-awareness.
From practical tips for handling panic attacks to redefining mindfulness as approachable and effective (not just a wellness buzzword), Dr. Skaar gives us relatable, research-backed strategies you can start using today. Discover why making conscious choices in the moment is key to “meeting your life,” how easy it is to numb out without noticing, and why honoring your emotions with self-compassion is sometimes the best first step toward healing.
If you want real talk about the mind-body connection, tangible tips to calm your nervous system, and ways to nurture meaningful change, tune in—you might just find the shift you’ve been needing.
Timestamps:
08:43 Unintentional Burnout and Mindless Scrolling
12:03 Awareness: Key to Understanding Trauma
15:55 Mindfulness: Navigating Anxiety and Trauma
24:16 "Calming the Mind's Worry Machine"
29:07 Perfectionism's Hidden Costs
33:12 Mindfulness Misconceptions
35:51 Practicing Non-Judgmental Meditation
37:12 Mindfulness Beyond Meditation
49:30 Managing Anxiety with Self-Kindness
Key Takeways:
- Stress is a Habit Loop
- Find Grounding in the Present Moment
- Mindfulness Is for Everyone (and It’s Not "Woo
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that self-awareness, compassion, and small grounding practices can open the door to meaningful change.
Connect with Dr. Theresa Skaar (Dr. T)
Website: https://ccwithdrt.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtheresa/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dr.theresa_b_skaar/
TikTok: @dr.t_mindful_moments
Insight Timer: Theresa B. Skaar https://insig.ht/5L9w1nAJFMb?utm_source=copy_link&utm_medium=live_stream_share
Other Links Mentioned:
QUIZ: Are You Blocking Your Success
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Production House: GEM MEDIA GROUP
Copyright of Kim Kelley Thompson 2024.
