Please find below a press release about our latest podcast episode. We talk to Ben Aldridge about his new book 'How to be comfortable with being uncomfortable', and discuss experiences of anxiety during the covid-19 pandemic.
We're promoting his book via our podcast episode but would love to reach a broader audience for the story. Many people will be feeling the same I imagine at the moment and I know you have an interest in mental health issues.
I'd love to see if there is a way we could connect. Do let me know what you think!
Many thanks
Elfie
PRESS RELEASE
FOR RELEASE 31stJuly 2020
Comics talk about dealing with anxiety during the pandemic
Comedians Leaf and Elfie talk about anxiety this week in their latest podcast episode with writer and modern day stoic; Ben Aldridge.
Ben suffered debilitating panic attacks and recently published a book How to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable which details the weird and wonderful ways he overcame his anxiety.
Taking inspiration from stoicism, Buddhism and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) Ben took on a number of extreme challenges in order to push out of his comfort zone. Alongside conventional challenges such as running a marathon, Ben embarked on some quirkier activities such as eating whole lemons, dressing silly in public and learning Japanese which he believes are all part of building a strong and resilient mindset.
Leaf, co-host of the podcast Leaf&Elfie Curious Talks said:
"During this covid-19 pandemic, many people will be feeling extremely anxious. Ben's story is both uplifting and practical. Taking small steps to push your body and mind - whether that's attempting a tough puzzle, taking a cold shower or even climbing the equivalent of Everest on your stairs as Ben did, can all help to build resilience. At a time when we often have so little control and will struggle to plan, this book is a real gift for managing stress and taking positive action."
Since interviewing Ben on the podcast, the duo have taken up their own challenges including lock picking, yoga and facing down spiders.
Elfie said:
"I loved Ben's idea of an ‘Anti-Bucket List' - a list of things that scare you, and top of mine is spiders. It's a small thing, but facing my irrational phobia of spiders means that I can now use my garden furniture again. I took a deep breath and ran around with a cloth getting rid of all the cobwebs and only squealed a little bit while I flicked away the creepy crawlies! It's coincided with the heatwave and I do feel very proud as I sit here now with a cold drink on my spider-free chair."
The podcast is out this week and is now available to download on iTunes, Spotify and via Leaf and Elfie's website.
Photos attached:
Photo 1: Ben Aldridge
Photo 2: Ben Aldridge in ice
Photo 3: Leaf and Elfie
More information about Ben Aldridge
Ben Aldridge writes about practical philosophy, comfort zones, mental health and adventure. His first book How to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable: 43 Weird & Wonderful Ways to Build a Strong Resilient Mindset is an exploration of unique ways to leave our comfort zones, face our fears and overcome our anxieties. Heavily influenced by Stoicism, Buddhism, Popular Psychology and CBT, Ben's challenges encourage us to get uncomfortable and experience the personal growth that we can only gain from pushing ourselves to the limit.
Website: www.benaldridge.com
Instagram: @dothingsthatchallengeyou
Twitter: @iambenaldridge
About the podcast
Leaf & Elfie: Curious Talks
"Curious. Novel. Expert"
Leaf and Elfie meet unique experts from around the world. Guests include: military interrogator, sex-tech researcher and champion vegan bodybuilder.
Launched May 2020, exploring psychology, self-improvement, social change and futuristic tech.
The podcast: https://leafandelfie.buzzsprout.com
Instagram: @leafandelfie
Contact
We are happy to provide exclusive interviews about our work on the podcast and answer questions. Feel free to get in touch by email or phone.
Email: leafandelfiepodcast@gmail.com
Phone: Elfie on 07588692955