Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley explores anxiety - what it is, why it happens, and how it affects the body as well as the mind.

Drawing on both her medical expertise and lived experience, she explains the physiological response behind anxiety symptoms, from racing thoughts to a heightened stress response.

We talk about practical strategies for managing anxiety in everyday life, and how creative hobbies like sewing can play a powerful role in supporting mental health.

From regulating the nervous system to creating moments of focus and calm, sewing offers more than just a finished garment - it can become part of a sustainable wellbeing routine.

If you’ve ever wondered why anxiety feels so physical, or how to manage anxiety symptoms in a gentle, realistic way, this conversation offers both science-backed insight and practical tools.

Claire discusses:

• What is anxiety and its physiological basis
• How sewing induces mindfulness and flow state
• The impact of arts engagement on cortisol and inflammation
• Perfectionism and its link to anxiety in sewing
• Practical tips for reconnecting with sewing for anxiety relief

Follow me:

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

@thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Guest details:

Instagram: @wiredtomake

Book: The Burnout Doctor

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and anxiety

03:59 How engaging in creative arts helps anxiety

08:52 Perfectionism and anxiety

12:37 Tips for people wanting to engage in sewing without pressure

14:08 Substack end of the show