Healing the brain|body connection

“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”

— Joseph Campbell

While each Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is unique, we all face a life-altering event and contend with the challenges of an invisible injury. The injury can create a profound disconnect between the expectations of the world around you and your own sense of identity. While others may anticipate the same person they once knew, the reality is that TBI often brings about significant changes in cognitive function, behavior, and personality. An internal conflict can arise which is deeply disorienting and challenging to navigate, as you strive to reconcile the expectations of others with your own evolving sense of self.

Acceptance came gradually for me but as I leaned in, healers of all medicines began to appear. Early on I was connected to Dr. Olcese, a Neuropsychologist who played a pivotal role in guiding me towards holistic healing. With empathy and expertise, Dr. Olcese validated my experience and introduced me to the concept of the brain-body connection. He emphasized that true healing encompassed more than just addressing physical or cognitive aspects; it required acknowledging and nurturing the emotional body as well. Dr. Olcese's insights provided the framework for my journey. Through his guidance, I began to understand the importance of holistic approaches to healing and embarked on a path of self-discovery and integration.

Throughout the years, I have learned that there are countless avenues of healing, and while every brain responds differently, it's essential not to lose hope. Surround yourself with understanding and supportive individuals who respect your process. Find beauty in each moment and remember that you are not alone—there is a vast community of others on a similar path. Be kind to yourself. Healing is possible.

With gratitude, I share these powerful resources that continue to support the well-being of my body/brain connection.

Nervous system regulation —

My ongoing well-being depends on maintaining a regulated nervous system. It is essential for optimal healing, as an unregulated system prioritizes survival over the healing process. By promoting nervous system regulation, you can create an environment conducive to healing, allowing the body to redirect energy towards restoration and repair. This cultivates a state of balance and resilience, supporting your body’s innate capacity for healing and well-being. Befriending my nervous system has been the foundation of my journey to wholeness.

Neurological care —

The brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections, known as neuroplasticity, is central to neurological rehabilitation. Through targeted therapies and interventions, individuals with TBIs can harness neuroplasticity to promote recovery and functional improvement.

Every Brain injury is different and it’s important to try different approaches and find what works for you.

These are the Neurological specialists that continue to support me on a path to optimum brain health.

Dr. Olcese – Neuropsychologist 

Not all Neuropsychologists are the same and I was very fortunate to be referred to Dr. Olcese. He is an expert in the field and takes a vested interest in the recovery of his patients. Dr. Olcese was the first person to teach me about my nervous system and the path to regulation for optimum healing. Don’t settle for a doctor who doesn’t affirm, support and guide you in your recovery.

ImagineX Functional Neurology

Attending the 5-day boot camp was a transformative experience for me. It completely changed my trajectory by restoring my ability to navigate public spaces and process information without experiencing prolonged periods of exhaustion. The support and encouragement I received during the boot camp and subsequent appointments were invaluable to my overall recovery.

AZ Vision Therapy

I worked with Dr. Amy Thomas and her Therapeutic Lens Program. This was another transformational experience as my energy level increased significantly and I was able to do more with greater intervals between “crashing”.

Mind-Eye Institute

I have not attended the Mind Eye Institute but it is on my TBI bucket list as Dr. Zelinsky is noted worldwide for her work in neuro-optometric rehabilitation.

Energy therapy —

Energy therapy methods for traumatic brain injury involve utilizing various holistic approaches to support the healing and recovery process. These methods aim to balance the body's energy systems, promote relaxation, and stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms.

These energy therapy methods can be used in conjunction with other medical treatments to support the recovery process and improve outcomes for individuals with TBI. It's essential to work with qualified practitioners who have experience in treating brain injury patients and to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new therapy.

Practices include:

  • The Congruence Herd :)

  • Somatic Experiencing Therapy

  • Mindfulness Practice

  • Yoga

  • Acupuncture

  • Qigong

  • Sound Healing

  • Infrared Sauna

  • Cranial Sacral

  • Shamanic Practices

  • Animal Therapies

  • Tuning Forks

  • Sound Bowls

  • Flower Essence Therapy

  • Homeopathy

Online organizations —

There are many online organizations supporting people living with Traumatic Brain Injury. If you google you can find your local organizations and through social media you can find other online sources of others who are sharing their own resources. I know it’s difficult to be on the computer so if there is one place I would recommend it would be Love Your Brain. They have a lot of great programs, resources and support for you and your caregivers.

Reading material —

I know reading and retaining information can be a struggle when you are living with a TBI. I listened to books on Audible and found it helpful to turn down the speed of the speech and pace the length of time I listened. Over time I was able to read for longer periods.

Here are some books I found helpful. I also listened to lighter fiction books as well as those that were motivational.

  • My Stroke of Insight (book and TED talk)

  • The Ghost in My Brain by Clark Elliot

  • The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel A. van der Kolk

  • The Brains Way of Healing by Norman Doidge

  • The Unspoken Voice by Peter Levine

  • Anchored by Deb Dana

  • The Polyvagal World by Dr. Stephen Porges & Seth Porges

Writing tools —

When you are ready, I suggest participating in a mindful writing workshop and journaling at your own pace to support your brain/body connection. Numerous books explore mindful writing, but my breakthrough came from attending one of Nancy Linnon's workshop and receiving continued one-on-one guidance. Though still challenging, I now have both the tools and self-compassion to keep my pen moving.

You can connect with Nancy at The Moving Pen.