The Healing Practice: Anxiety, resilience & emotional wellness

Holly King

The Healing Practice is a deeply human narrative podcast hosted by Holly King, designed to guide listeners through the complex landscape of anxiety, resilience, and emotional wellness. By blending personal storytelling with expert insights, the show creates a safe, empathetic space where vulnerability is celebrated as a strength rather than a weakness. Each episode offers a compassionate companion for those navigating life’s emotional turbulence, providing clarity and comfort when it is needed most. Explore essential topics such as overcoming social anxiety, building mental resilience, practicing self-compassion, and understanding the science behind stress. The series delves into practical strategies for mindfulness, cognitive behavioral techniques, and holistic healing practices that empower individuals to reclaim their peace. Listeners will discover stories of transformation, coping mechanisms for panic attacks, and methods to cultivate inner calm amidst modern chaos. From managing burnout to fostering healthy relationships, every conversation is crafted to support your journey toward lasting emotional balance and psychological well-being. This podcast is ideal for anyone seeking genuine connection, practical mental health tools, and inspiration to thrive despite challenges. Holly King’s warm, grounded voice provides a steady anchor, delivering episodes with a thoughtful cadence that respects your time and emotional capacity. Whether you are new to therapy concepts or a seasoned advocate for mental health awareness, this show meets you exactly where you are. Join a community dedicated to growth and healing by following The Healing Practice today to never miss an episode of support and insight. Topics: anxiety relief podcast, emotional wellness tips, build resilience, mental health stories, self compassion practice, overcoming panic attacks, mindfulness for beginners, stress management techniques, healing from trauma, personal growth podcast, holistic mental health, coping with burnout, therapy insights, inner peace guide, wellness narrative, humanity media podcasts, holly king host, psychological safety #MentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #EmotionalWellness #ResilienceBuilding #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #HealingJourney #StressManagement #TherapyTalk #InnerPeace #Wellbeing #HollyKing #NarrativePodcast #HumanityMedia General information, not professional advice.

  1. Oct 22

    The Quiet Goodbye: Grieving Childhood Friends You Outgrew | The Healing Practice

    This episode of The Healing Practice explores the complex, often unspoken grief of outgrowing childhood friends. Host Holly King addresses the specific emotional weight of drifting apart from someone who knew you before you became yourself, validating the feeling that this silent separation is a legitimate form of loss. If you are wondering if you are broken for feeling sad about a friendship that ended without a fight or betrayal, this conversation offers profound clarity and compassion. It is designed for individuals navigating adult friendships, personal growth journeys, and the difficult process of evolving beyond their past environments. We delve into why these separations hurt so deeply: because these friends hold the archive of your early self, serving as witnesses to your innocence and unformed identity. When you change—your values, your pace, your need for solitude—the mirror they reflected back begins to crack. This episode challenges the societal script that friendship must be permanent unless something bad happens. Instead, it frames divergence as a natural part of growth, where incompatible vessels filled with different waters simply drift apart. You will learn to distinguish between guilt and integrity, understanding that gratitude for the past does not require imprisonment in the present. Drawing on therapeutic insights and personal anecdotes, we discuss how to honor the chapter that helped write who you are while letting go of the expectation that those years dictate your future. We explore the concept of 'quiet goodbyes' and the relief found in stopping the performance of forced connection. By releasing old dynamics, you create space for new connections that align with your current nervous system needs and shared values. This is not a failure of loyalty; it is an act of self-respect and alignment with your truth. Finally, we offer hope for what comes next. As you clear out spaces that no longer serve you, life rushes in to fill the vacuum with presence, deep conversation, and mutual respect. You are invited to curate your circle based on who you are now, not who you were then. This episode provides permission to mourn without shame, to mute notifications, and to trust your instincts as you steer toward a more aligned future. Listen to gain comfort, validation, and practical wisdom for navigating the quiet end of meaningful relationships. Support the show and access additional resources via the link below. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: outgrowing friends, friendship breakup, adult friendship drift, grieving childhood friends, emotional wellness, personal growth journey, nervous system regulation, setting boundaries, healing from loneliness, mental health support, letting go of the past, finding your tribe, self worth and evolution #friendshipbreakup #outgrowingpeople #mentalhealthmatters #personalgrowth #healingjourney #emotionalwellness #selfcaretips #mindfulnesspractice #boundariesarehealthy #innerpeace #adultfriendships #lettinggo Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-22.txt

  2. 23h ago

    Accepting Scars: Why Healing Isn't About Erasing the Past | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the profound difference between erasing emotional pain and integrating it as a scar. This guide to anxiety resilience and emotional wellness challenges the societal myth that healing means returning to a state of innocence or having unblemished skin. Instead, King argues that true recovery involves accepting that some wounds leave permanent marks that serve as evidence of survival rather than signs of failure. This episode is designed for individuals struggling with trauma recovery, those feeling shame about lingering triggers, and anyone seeking a more compassionate approach to mental health and personal growth. King delves into the concept of 'secondary wounds,' which occur when we judge ourselves for still feeling pain after an event has passed. By using metaphors like Kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold, and trees growing around lightning strikes, the narrative illustrates how scars add character and depth to our lives. Listeners will learn practical somatic awareness techniques to greet nervous system reactions with curiosity rather than criticism. This segment offers concrete strategies for building self-trust, understanding that scar tissue is protective, and finding peace in acknowledging discomfort without trying to suppress it. It provides a framework for viewing anxiety not as a defect to be fixed, but as part of a complex, authentic human experience. The discussion moves beyond simple positive thinking to address the exhaustion of performing wellness. King explains how the pressure to appear 'healed' creates additional stress, whereas integration frees up energy for living. By accepting that sensitivity can remain long after a breakup or loss, listeners can reframe their tears and triggers as testaments to deep connection and love. This episode encourages radical gentleness toward one’s own history, promoting a shift from suppression to acceptance. It is a vital resource for anyone ready to stop fighting their past and start embracing their journey of becoming. Join Holly King for this calming reflection on resilience and the beauty of imperfection. If you found value in this episode, please support The Healing Practice by visiting the link in the show notes to help us continue providing free resources for emotional wellness. Your support allows us to keep these conversations accessible to those who need them most. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: accepting scars, emotional healing process, anxiety resilience tips, trauma recovery integration, kintsugi metaphor psychology, somatic awareness exercises, self compassion practice, mental health wellness podcast, overcoming secondary wounds, mindful breathing techniques, personal growth journey, emotional intelligence skills #healingpractice #emotionalwellness #anxietyrelief #resiliencebuilding #selfcompassion #traumainformed #mentalhealthmatters #kintsugijourney #mindfulnessdaily #innerpeace #growthmindset #scarrednotbroken Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-21.txt

  3. 1d ago

    Letting Go of the Hope He Returns: Finding Peace in the Empty Space | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the profound emotional exhaustion that comes from clinging to the hope that an ex-partner will return. This guide is designed for individuals navigating the difficult early stages of a breakup, specifically those who feel stuck in a loop of waiting, analyzing, and hoping for validation from someone who has already left. The episode identifies this 'hope' not as love, but often as fear disguised as devotion—a fear of being alone, fear of starting over, and fear of facing the void where that person used to be. By examining the physical tension and nervous system dysregulation caused by hyper-vigilance, listeners learn to distinguish between healthy grieving and the destructive act of waiting for a ghost. Holly delves into the concept of acceptance, clarifying that letting go does not mean giving up on love or happiness, but rather stopping the war against reality. Using the metaphor of landing a plane, she explains how accepting the truth frees up mental energy previously spent on denial, allowing it to be redirected toward healing and self-creation. The episode emphasizes reclaiming your narrative from third-person observer to author of your own life. Listeners are encouraged to identify the hobbies, friendships, and dreams they paused during the relationship, recognizing that these parts of themselves are still waiting to be reclaimed. The core message is one of wholeness: you are not incomplete without your partner; you were always whole, and the relationship was merely a part of your journey, not its definition. Practical steps for detachment are provided, including digital hygiene strategies like muting and blocking to protect peace, rewriting internal scripts to interrupt fantasies of reunion, and investing in small, deliberate acts of joy. These actions help rebuild a foundation of happiness independent of romantic connection, prioritizing consistency over intensity in the healing process. The episode serves as a compassionate companion for anyone ready to put down the heavy bag of past expectations and step into the empty space with curiosity and self-compassion. It offers a calm, ambient space to breathe, reflect, and begin the transition from survival mode to genuine living. Join Holly King for this reflective session on anxiety, resilience, and emotional wellness. If this episode resonated with you, please consider supporting the show via the link in the description to help keep these resources free and accessible for others on their healing journey. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: letting go of an ex, healing after breakup, emotional wellness tips, nervous system regulation, self worth after rejection, mindfulness for anxiety, acceptance vs denial, reclaiming your narrative, mental health support, personal growth journey, detachment strategies, overcoming heartbreak #lettinggo #healingjourney #emotionalwellness #breakuprecovery #selflove #mindfulnesspractice #anxietyrelief #personalgrowth #mentalhealthmatters #resiliencebuilding #innerpeace #nervoussystemhealing Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-20.txt

  4. 2d ago

    When Your Sister’s Joy Feels Like a Knife: Navigating Sibling Envy | The Healing Practice

    This episode of The Healing Practice explores the complex, often unspoken emotion of sibling envy, specifically when an estranged or distant sister’s joy feels like a personal failure. Host Holly King guides listeners through the grief and shame that arise when watching someone who knew you at your worst thrive while you struggle. This guide is essential for anyone navigating family estrangement, healing from toxic family dynamics, or feeling stuck in comparison traps within their personal growth journey. We delve into the psychology behind why a sibling’s success can trigger such a sharp pang of loss, reframing envy not as a moral failing but as a vital signal from your nervous system. Using the metaphor of holding a glass of water, we discuss how carrying old narratives becomes heavy over time. You will learn to distinguish between envying the person versus envying the life they represent, and how to process the mourning of the relationship you wished you had rather than the one you have now. We address the somatic cues of jealousy, such as jaw clenching and shallow breathing, offering practical tools to ground yourself and shift focus from external markers of success to internal definitions of worth. The conversation emphasizes that healing is not a race and that your path, with its unique detours and storms, is valid regardless of where your siblings are in their lives. We explore strategies for building community over isolation, encouraging you to share these vulnerabilities to dissolve shame. By redefining success on your own terms—valuing small acts of care, boundaries, and genuine connection—you can release the power of comparison. This episode offers compassionate insights for those dealing with family trauma, boundary setting, and the difficult work of forgiving oneself for feeling human emotions that society deems unacceptable. Listen closely to find peace in your own rhythm and learn to carry your story with lightness rather than heaviness. If this episode resonates with your journey, please support the show via the link below to help us continue providing free, high-quality mental health resources and reflection tools for our growing community. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: sibling envy, estranged family healing, family trauma recovery, navigating jealousy, emotional wellness tips, grief and loss in relationships, nervous system regulation, self compassion practice, toxic family dynamics, personal growth journey, mental health support, healing from comparison, setting family boundaries, overcoming shame, mindful breathing exercises #siblingrivalry #familyhealing #emotionalwellness #mentalhealthmatters #selfcompassion #growthmindset #healingjourney #boundaries #innerpeace #vulnerability #mindfulness #resilience Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-19.txt

  5. 3d ago

    When Empathy Becomes a Trap: Recognizing Boundary Erosion | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the critical distinction between healthy empathy and boundary erosion, a phenomenon where excessive kindness leads to emotional exhaustion and self-neglect. This guide is designed for individuals who struggle with saying no, those who feel responsible for others' emotions, and anyone experiencing compassion fatigue or codependency tendencies. If you often feel a heavy, hollow sensation in your chest after agreeing to requests, this episode offers a compassionate framework for recognizing when your availability has become an obligation rather than a choice. Holly delves into the subtle mechanics of boundary erosion, explaining how it differs from dramatic conflicts by manifesting as a slow, insidious creep of taking on unwanted emotional labor. Listeners will learn to identify physical signs of distress, such as throat tightness or shoulder tension, which serve as early warnings from the nervous system that personal limits are being crossed. The discussion highlights the cultural pressure, particularly on women, to glorify self-sacrifice, challenging the notion that love requires endless giving without limit. By understanding that resentment is a signal of depletion rather than moral failure, listeners can begin to separate their own experiences from those of others, moving from absorbing others' anxiety to maintaining distinct emotional boundaries. The episode provides practical, actionable strategies for reclaiming autonomy, starting with the simple but powerful practice of pausing before responding to requests. Holly encourages listeners to check their capacity before committing, shifting from reflexive yeses driven by guilt or fear to conscious choices based on genuine desire. Through small acts of resistance—such as declining extra tasks or stepping back from overwhelming social interactions—listeners can rebuild a fortress of self-respect. These steps help restore trust in one’s own voice, allowing empathy to return to its role as a free gift rather than a forced duty. Join Holly King for this calming reflection on emotional wellness and resilience. Discover how to protect your energy while remaining kind and connected. For more resources and support, please visit our website at the link below. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: boundary erosion, emotional wellness, compassion fatigue, codependency recovery, saying no tips, nervous system regulation, self care practices, empathy vs sympathy, mental health growth, resilience building, emotional labor, healing practice podcast #boundaries #emotionalwellness #selfcare #mentalhealthmatters #compassionfatigue #personalgrowth #mindfulness #resilience #healingjourney #anxietyrelief #emotionalintelligence #innerpeace Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-18.txt

  6. 4d ago

    Why Modern Dating Feels Like a Maze (And How to Breathe Inside It) | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the emotional toll of modern dating and offers a compassionate framework for navigating ambiguity without losing your sense of self. If you find yourself staring at your phone, over-analyzing text messages, or feeling anxious about silence from a potential partner, this episode is designed for you. We discuss why modern dating feels like a maze where connection is instant but commitment is optional, and how that uncertainty triggers our nervous systems. This is not just advice on dating; it is a guide to emotional wellness, resilience, and breaking free from the cycle of seeking external validation through digital interactions. We dive deep into the psychology behind the 'ghosting' phenomenon and the outdated rules of engagement that still haunt us, such as waiting three days to call. You will learn to distinguish between intuition and anxiety masquerading as insight. When your heart races and your shoulders tighten in response to an unread inbox, your body is in fight-or-flight mode, not solving a logical problem. We explore somatic regulation techniques, teaching you how to physically ground yourself when you feel the urge to chase clarity. By putting the phone down, placing a hand on your heart, and reminding yourself that you are safe and whole regardless of someone else’s reply, you begin to reclaim your peace of mind. This segment focuses heavily on practical tools for managing dating anxiety and reducing the mental load of constant performance. Furthermore, we address the harmful narratives we tell ourselves when faced with rejection or silence, such as 'I am not enough' or 'I am too much.' These stories often stem from taking responsibility for another person’s emotional unavailability or busy schedule. True closure is presented not as something given by others, but as a fierce act of self-preservation where you decide your peace is more important than an explanation. We introduce the concept of 'dropping the rope' in the tug-of-war with uncertainty, encouraging listeners to stop pulling for answers and instead invest energy back into their own lives. By setting boundaries around phone checking and engaging in grounding activities like walking or cooking, you shift from a place of lack to a place of presence. Ultimately, this episode invites you to change your relationship with the dating process rather than trying to fix it overnight. It is about finding comfort in the unknown and realizing that you are the prize, not the applicant. Real connection requires risk and showing up as your messy, human self, trusting that those meant for you will make consistent effort. If you are ready to breathe inside the maze of modern dating, let go of the need to control the uncontrollable, and build resilience against digital rejection, this conversation will provide the gentle guidance you need. Please support the show via the link below to help keep these resources available for everyone seeking healing and growth. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: modern dating anxiety, navigating ghosting, emotional resilience practice, somatic regulation techniques, healing from rejection, dating app burnout, self-worth outside relationships, mindful dating strategies, overcoming attachment anxiety, building inner peace, mental health for singles, letting go of control, nervous system regulation #datinganxiety #emotionalwellness #selfworth #mindfulness #resilience #mentalhealthmatters #healingjourney #innerpeace #somatictherapy #datingadvice #selflove #anxietyrelief Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-17.txt

  7. 5d ago

    When Your Body Keeps Score: The Quiet Language of Long-Term Stress | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the profound connection between long-term stress and physical health, introducing the concept that 'your body keeps score.' This guide to emotional wellness is designed for individuals experiencing chronic tension, burnout, or somatic symptoms who feel stuck in a state of high alert without knowing why. We move beyond viewing stress as temporary events, reframing it instead as a persistent climate that saturates our nervous system over months or years. If you have ever felt dizzy at your desk, shaken but unable to pinpoint a specific threat, or exhausted despite adequate rest, this episode offers a compassionate framework for understanding those signals as valid data rather than personal failures. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: long term stress recovery, somatic therapy techniques, nervous system regulation, chronic tension relief, body keeps score explained, burnout recovery strategies, mind body connection mental health, healing from emotional trauma, anxiety and physical symptoms, resilience and emotional wellness, self compassion practices, grounding exercises for anxiety #mentalhealth #stressrelief #somaticexperiencing #burnouthealing #nervoussystem #emotionalwellness #mindfulness #selfcare #traumainformed #innerpeace #holistichealth #resilience Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-16.txt

  8. Oct 11

    When Anger Is Just Fear in Disguise: Reclaiming Your Softness | The Healing Practice

    In this episode of The Healing Practice, host Holly King explores the profound psychological connection between anger and fear, revealing how our most aggressive reactions are often protective shields for deep-seated vulnerability. This episode is designed for individuals struggling with emotional regulation, those who frequently feel shame after snapping at loved ones, and anyone seeking to understand the root causes of their defensive behaviors. By decoding the body's alarm system, listeners learn that anger is rarely just anger; it is a secondary emotion masking a primary feeling of powerlessness or terror. This guide offers a compassionate framework for recognizing when your nervous system flips the switch from passive fear to active aggression, helping you reclaim your softness and authenticity in relationships. Holly delves into the mechanics of emotional resilience, explaining why the brain chooses the 'active' emotion of anger over the 'passive' state of fear. She illustrates this concept with a relatable story about a client whose irritation was actually a shield against the fear of appearing incompetent. Through this narrative, the episode highlights how physical signals—such as a racing heart, hiked shoulders, or clenched jaws—serve as early warning systems before we even articulate our thoughts. The discussion emphasizes the importance of pausing to notice these somatic cues rather than getting lost in the narrative of being right or wrong. By acknowledging the trembling fear beneath the heat of rage, listeners can transform exhaustion into healing, allowing themselves permission to be human, messy, and in need of support without judgment. This episode serves as a gentle reminder that vulnerability is not weakness but a pathway to genuine connection and peace. It encourages listeners to practice self-compassion by treating the scared part of themselves with kindness rather than fighting against it. While the insights provided here offer valuable tools for emotional wellness and personal growth, they are intended for reflection and support only and should not replace professional mental health care. If you find yourself overwhelmed by these emotions, please reach out to a qualified therapist or counselor. Join Holly King for this calming exploration of the mind-body connection, and remember to take good care of yourself as you navigate the journey toward greater emotional awareness and inner strength. More from The Healing Practice: https://humanitymedia.org/the-healing-practice-2 Topics: anger vs fear psychology, emotional regulation techniques, vulnerability and resilience, nervous system responses, healing from shame, mindful breathing exercises, understanding defensive behavior, emotional wellness podcast, softness and strength, mental health support, body awareness signals, personal growth tips #anxiety #resilience #emotionalwellness #vulnerability #mentalhealthmatters #selfcompassion #nervoussystem #healingjourney #mindfulness #personalgrowth #innerpeace #therapytools Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-healing-practice-2/2026-10-11.txt

About

The Healing Practice is a deeply human narrative podcast hosted by Holly King, designed to guide listeners through the complex landscape of anxiety, resilience, and emotional wellness. By blending personal storytelling with expert insights, the show creates a safe, empathetic space where vulnerability is celebrated as a strength rather than a weakness. Each episode offers a compassionate companion for those navigating life’s emotional turbulence, providing clarity and comfort when it is needed most. Explore essential topics such as overcoming social anxiety, building mental resilience, practicing self-compassion, and understanding the science behind stress. The series delves into practical strategies for mindfulness, cognitive behavioral techniques, and holistic healing practices that empower individuals to reclaim their peace. Listeners will discover stories of transformation, coping mechanisms for panic attacks, and methods to cultivate inner calm amidst modern chaos. From managing burnout to fostering healthy relationships, every conversation is crafted to support your journey toward lasting emotional balance and psychological well-being. This podcast is ideal for anyone seeking genuine connection, practical mental health tools, and inspiration to thrive despite challenges. Holly King’s warm, grounded voice provides a steady anchor, delivering episodes with a thoughtful cadence that respects your time and emotional capacity. Whether you are new to therapy concepts or a seasoned advocate for mental health awareness, this show meets you exactly where you are. Join a community dedicated to growth and healing by following The Healing Practice today to never miss an episode of support and insight. Topics: anxiety relief podcast, emotional wellness tips, build resilience, mental health stories, self compassion practice, overcoming panic attacks, mindfulness for beginners, stress management techniques, healing from trauma, personal growth podcast, holistic mental health, coping with burnout, therapy insights, inner peace guide, wellness narrative, humanity media podcasts, holly king host, psychological safety #MentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #EmotionalWellness #ResilienceBuilding #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #HealingJourney #StressManagement #TherapyTalk #InnerPeace #Wellbeing #HollyKing #NarrativePodcast #HumanityMedia General information, not professional advice.