Hi out there.

Woah I've been blogging a bit over the holiday break.  It feels good to write.  My mission over the next few months is to finish up my holistic nutritionist certificate so I'll be buried in books.

Another month has passed by and it's time for me to check in on the process of weaning off my migraine-preventive medication (amitriptyline).  If you're just jumping in, visit my initial post, month one and month two.  Also, I recommend reading the book Heal Your Headache to gain a better understanding of the migraine-preventive medication often offered to those struggling with migraines (vestibular migraines in my case) and why.  

Although it's happily been an uneventful month as I slowlyyy wean off the medication, I think the emotional component is something that I'll slowly need to work through.  The medication has been a security blanket sort of speak.  At 21 months in with the vestibular stuff I started the medicine to tackle the spontaneous attacks that would happen.  As I've mentioned in the past, in my mind I was 90% better at that time, but the random vestibular migraine attacks were crushing my soul.  I'd be riding high at my 90% better, so thankful for the progress I'd made, and then BAM- the symptoms (see below) would reappear and intensify.  The first 18ish months had been constant symptoms (with great improvement over that time) so the feeling associated with each of these attacks was deep and it hurt.

As someone who believes in the power of holistic wellness with all my heart, going on a medication for migraines was a big decision.  It's one I discuss more in my book.

As I've reduced my dosage this month, I've been keeping up with my holistic support (full routine here).  I'll give you a glimpse of what my days (with my natural toolkit of oils) looks like as well as some of the other blissful things that fuel my soul.  It has provided me peace of mind as I reduce the dosage, using oils to support my mind & body as well as following my vestibular migraine diet plan.  Although, with the holidays I've certainly indulged in plenty of chocolate.  Chocolate (vegan) has never been an issue for me and for that I'm thankful.  Coffee on the other hand has certainly not always been a friend of mine.

Ok, onto the holistic goodness! [visit my favorite oils for Vestibular Warriors to get yours]

ADAPTIV OIL BLEND:
-I apply this blend on my wrists and back of my neck throughout the day, and it smells dreamy!
-WHY: the oils' properties help boost mood, assist in centering, increase feelings of tranquility, soothe and uplift, and reduce feeling of anxiousness and tension

COPAIBA OIL: 
-I take a few drops of this oil in a veggie capsule morning and night (or use the softgels); I also will apply this oil to my temples if I feel any migraine pain trying to break through
-WHY: the oil's properties support the health of the cardiovascular, immune, and digestive systems when ingested, powerful antioxidant benefits when taken internally, internal use helps calm, soothe, and support the nervous system, and it promotes clear, smooth skin and reduces the appearance of blemishes

PEPPERMINT OIL:
-I apply this oil on my temples and dab underneath my nose to wake up in the morning.  I'll also apply it to my temples throughout the day, as needed.
-WHY: It is cooling and soothing and its properties combat migraines.  Woohoo.

And I talk all about the supplements I take in my Vestibular Warrior e-book and on this page.

I've been starting my days with a matcha latte which is pure fuel for my soul.  I've been using Good Mylk Ceremonial Matcha Latte powder + oat milk.  I confess that I have quite a love for going to coffee shops on my work lunch hour and treating myself to a matcha latte, but my goal is to make them more at home.  I think my wallet will appreciate the effort.  I try to make green juice (this recipe) during the workweek and drink that before the latte or midday.  It's a way for me to get a punch of goodness.

So the fear piece- weaning off the medicine means that I really need to be in touch with triggers.  The medicine took me from 90% to 100% most days, and I've had very minimal vestibular symptoms the last 1.5 years.  I do get migraine pain here and there, but the vestibular storm has been quite quiet.  Man that's a beautiful thing to be able to say.  In no way am I looking to disrupt that.  I want to do what is best for my wellness and ultimately I do not want to rely on a medication for life.  I want to figure this out.  As I write this I very much feel like I'm confessing something to a journal, so I hope it comes through the emotion I have wrapped up in this decision.

I don't have any set plan for what officially getting completely off the medication will look like.  I'm going with the flow and reducing by no more than 5mg each month.  Of course we're all different, so check in with your doctor before making any changes.  There's a variety of migraine medications/dosages and our bodies react in different ways.  I wish I knew exactly what it will look like, but that's impossible, so my plan is to be intentional with my wellness routine, listen to my body and keep plugging through it. 

Onto another month!  Also, a new episode is up on the Bliss Out Vibes podcast.  It's about time, right?
​
​-Em

Hey Vestibular Warrior.

I've been thinking about the vibe I want to bring into the New Year.  I like that approach more than setting any exact resolution/goal; although, I do have things on my mind.  But just setting the tone for myself and the energy I want to carry into 2020 is powerful.  Living with vestibular somethings, we often do not know what the next day (or moment) will bring.  For me it's been monumental in my life finding my calm in chaos and realizing that the light that will guide me through the ups and downs is within me; it's within my power to create my glowing wellness.  Further, that means that I am responsible for taking ownership of my health.  

That's a lot to take on when you're journeying with a vestibular condition which creates a general feeling of powerlessness.  I know that feeling intimately and it used to be the energy that felt soul-crushing.  I was reacting to every symptom, every emotion, every doctor's appointment, every sway/floaty feeling/glitch... you understand.  

As we turn the corner into a brand new year, my mission is to continue to create my wellness.  It's one thing to say it and another battle to actually follow through.  I thought I'd share the pieces of bliss I'm taking into 2020, and I hope it gets you thinking what vibe you want to take with you.  After all, while we do not have control over every detail of life, we do have a choice in how we approach it.

What brings you happiness?  What makes your heart happy?  What makes your soul sigh relief at the knowledge that there is so much beauty in this world?  This may be something you really have to meditate on.  When my symptoms were storming my system and I felt like I didn't have a moment of relief, stopping to smell the roses was just not part of my schedule.  I was in pure survival mode.

However, something I've realized as I've healed from vestibular neuritis and took control of vestibular migraines, is that uncovering bliss daily is a must.  Taking pure pleasure in the small moments that make up this life is not only essential to healing, but a component of what makes up this life.  It's the secret that should be screamed.  Here are some examples from my life, so you can think on your bliss.

-Interacting with my boys and getting a glimpse of life through their eyes
-Walking the streets of Seattle with a matcha latte and listening to my favorite music playlist
-Dying my hair pink and feeling comfortable in my own skin... even with the occasional sway, migraine or other symptom; always grateful for the progress I've made
-Hearing from a fellow Vestibular Warrior that my book was a light in their day

The key was finding bliss before I was through my vestibular something.  I honestly don't know if I'll ever be completely through it, but I refuse to not find the bliss in this life as I journey along.

This is the game changer.  This is the one that changed my world.  For 21 months I didn't have a solid diagnosis.  I had self-diagnosed myself with vestibular neuritis the first year and it wasn't until that one-year mark that I started to piece together the vestibular migraine component.  I didn't have a doctor that had provided me any guidance on diagnosis.  I was working with a chiropractor that specialized in craniosacral work and another that was a holistic nutritionist.  My mission was to heal from the inside out and I decided I didn't need a label for my vestibular something in order to do that. 

Where can your mindset shift your reality?  I think this is a question we can ask ourselves most days.  It's sort of the glass half-full or half-empty conversation.  It rings true though that our mindset creates our reality.  That's why I call us Vestibular Warriors because it's empowering.  It demonstrates our strength and resilience.  

A goal of mine this year is to wean off my migraine-preventive medication.  Of course I have fear wrapped up in that.  But what if I just look at it as an opportunity to get to know myself better?  To better pay attention to my body speaking to me.  When I need extra support, I'll turn to diet, oils, movement + meditation, the support of vestibular warriors and most importantly my mindset and how it will guide me every step of the way.

When I was in the worst of the storm with my vestibular something, there was a lot of emotion and trauma that I just couldn't process in the moment.  It's only in looking back over the journey that I see clearer how I was trudging through the motions.  Sometimes when you're trudging, it's hard to really feel how an experience is shaping you.  That was certainly the case for me.  Around two years in I started to find a grounded state.  I felt my soul coming back to life and at that point I was finally ready to start opening up about the experience.  That inspired my creation of Bliss Out, the Vestibular Warrior YouTube channel and ultimately was my fuel to write my book Uncovering Bliss unfolding my journey.

I say all this to encourage you to process the emotional component of your vestibular something. 

​Maybe that means sitting in a meditation even when you feel like you're floating away.

Maybe it means opening up to someone (even if just a journal) about your vestibular something and how it makes you feel.

Maybe it means taking part is some sort of therapy (so many kinds out there!) and doing something for you.

My whole purpose and the driving force behind everything I share is that I don't want another Vestibular Warrior to feel alone.  I want to spread hope and resilience.  I want other Vestibular Warriors to know that this community understands your fears, your heartbreak and pain, but this community also will inspire you to rise up regardless of everything your vestibular something has thrown at you.  Listen to this song and then come back to this post.

I run Vestibular Warrior on Facebook which is all about holistic support & mindset to thrive with our vestibular somethings and beyond.  I'd love to connect with you.

In the next few months I'll be finishing up my holistic nutrition studies and will be able to call myself a Holistic Nutritionist.  The process of jumping back into studying has been as a gift to myself.  I believe that food is meant to heal our minds & bodies and help us find our balanced state.  In my experience it hasn't been the entire piece of recovering my wellness, but it plays an important role.  Embracing a plant-based diet a decade ago changed my life.  I literally felt negativity fall away from my essence as I learned to love my body.  Also, because I am working on getting off my migraine medication (that I started 21 months in to break the cycle), I know that diet will be ultra important and I plan to keep within my Vestibular Migraine Diet (vegan-friendly version).  

The quickest way to change how you feel about yourself is to look at how you're feeding your body and soul.  I think it's commonly the last piece we look at to shift our wellness when it should be the very first piece.  

I hope that you resonate with this post and I'd love to hear your thoughts.  I wish you all the best on your wellness journey as we dance into 2020.

Sending good vibes your way.
​
-Em

As we embark on another year, I've been thinking about what I want most for this space in the next year.  My mission continues to be to provide Vestibular Warriors with a holistic toolkit to own their wellness.  Vestibular conditions have the ability to make us feel entirely powerless; therefore, this space is meant to do the exact opposite.  I want to empower you to create your wellness and give you the resources to thrive.  I've been journeying with the vestibular stuff for the last three+ years and I've gone from sinking in constant overwhelming symptoms to experiencing symptoms quite minimally, with most days being symptom-free.

I'm so damn grateful for that.  Gratitude does not even express how I feel about the fact that most days I live in a balanced grounded state.  

There was a time that I didn’t talk about my vestibular something, and now I can’t shut up about it.  I wrote Uncovering Bliss: A Journey with a Vestibular Condition & Beyond to provide love and light to other Vestibular Warriors.  It's an honest account of what it felt like to be in the midst of a vestibular condition.  I want others to know they are not alone in the storm.  I know it made a difference in my life when I was trudging through the darkness, symptoms attacking my mind and body, having people like you who just understood how it felt.

As I think back over the last three+ years and my journey with vestibular neuritis and vestibular migraines, I thought it would be helpful to share a few things that have helped me most in the storm.  In particular, I want to share things that I had power over.  Of course this is such a personal journey so what helps me might not be the ticket for you, but I think that these things can provide a Vestibular Warrior the opportunity to feel better, while elevating wellness.

These days my objective is to not have a vestibular migraine attack. At one point when I was in the darkness of 24/7 symptoms, my goal was to get through the day with as few bumps as possible. The first year I could not make sense of the vestibular neuritis symptoms vs. vestibular migraine attacks.  It was soul-crushing chaos.  I was in my version of survival mode at that time.  When I was at my beginning, all I wanted was to hear stories of people breaking through the vestibular symptom chaos. It's still something that fills my heart up and I know that I have to put my wellness as a top priority to stay on top of VM, rather than sinking beneath it.

If you're interested in learning more about my journey, I encourage you to visit my Most Frequently Asked Questions page.

​And now let's jump into the goodness!  Note that the things I discuss are still a large part of my wellness routine.

The physical therapist I saw in the first few months after it hit was the first person to say the words "vestibular neuritis" to me. She actually mentioned labyrinthitis first and I put the pieces together that I most likely had vestibular neuritis (which involves no hearing changes). In the early weeks upon Googling my symptoms I landed on a number of YouTube videos of people performing exercises to basically retrain their bodies after a vestibular condition hit. Similar exercises were given to me from my physical therapist. Although I could act normal on the outside, inside I felt insanely off kilter, unbalanced, disconnected from my body and as if I was floating- always floating.

Looking back I can very clearly see that the fact that I pushed through my normal life from the beginning (minus the first week) helped me tremendously. It saved me on many levels. Going through life became my own personal version of VRT. In my case it was super intense going through the motions of my life (going to work, grocery shopping, going out in the world, keeping up with my baby and toddler).

​It felt awful. I need a new word for awful because it felt impossible every moment for months and months until it started to get easier. Without knowing it, I was helping my body learn to move again in the world and find a balanced state. I think many do this with vestibular therapy and that's why I mention it. My real life of version of vestibular therapy every moment of every day was my ticket to finding my balance once again; although, at that time I was in pure survival mode.

[I talk a lot more about journeying with my vestibular condition, healing and eventually thriving on YouTube (Vestibular Warrior channel)]

If you have a diagnosis, that's awesome. Congrats.  If you don't, I'm sending love and light your way and I know how that goes. I self diagnosed myself long before a doctor slapped a label on my vestibular condition (21 months in by the way). The first neurologist that I saw offered me no answers. The internet was more helpful, but that only increased my panic. As time went on, I cared less about the fact that I didn't have a diagnosis and more about healing. I just wanted to find myself in the storm of my vestibular something.

Because I didn't have a diagnosis, my goal from the start was just to help my body heal and find its natural grounded state.  The first thing I looked at was my diet.  November marked my 10-year anniversary of embracing a vegan diet and it has been such an incredible gift in my life.  That being said, I had a lot to learn when it came to the Migraine Diet and how it could help me. 

The first thing that I did was read Heal Your Headache (and I think you should too!) which gave me a base knowledge on the why/what of the Migraine Diet.  The book talks about common food triggers for migraine sufferers and how food can push us over our threshold, which plays a part in why we have episodes/attacks (whatever you like to call them).

I was very open to giving diet shifts a whirl because it was something I could control, and I'm a fan of that.  The trick was making it work within my plant-based framework.  At twenty-one years old, a vegan diet changed my life in a really big way.  It released my mind and body of so much negativity and quite literally gave me my glow.  It helped me uncover myself and learn to look at my body with love.  A decade later and in the throes of a heaving vestibular something, I did not want to break vegan; although, it was something I considered (I talk more about that in my book).  Ultimately I knew that saying goodbye to vegan was not the answer.

The below is the diet I followed strictly for a period of six months.  I still stick to it for the most part, but I admit chocolate does make an almost daily appearance these days.

I was not supplementing consistently when my vestibular something hit. I wanted to help my body on a deeper level, so I started doing my research. I was introduced to the doTERRA Lifelong Vitality Pack and after reading about the properties/goal of the supplements, I jumped on board. I have been taking these supplements [the vegan version] for the last three+ years and I probably will my entire life. I talk about these three supplements in depth in my Vestibular Warrior e-book, but I've included the basic details below.

You can get these supplements: here.  

Alpha CRS+ Cellular Vitality Complex: contains powerful polyphenols that protect cells from free radicals that can damage cellular DNA, mitochondria, and other critical cell structures [Note on POLYPHENOLS: A class of antioxidant molecules that provide numerous longevity health benefits including powerful antioxidant protection against free-radical damage to cellular DNA, mitochondria, and other critical cell structures.]

vEO Mega: Provides a unique blend of essential fatty acids that are so important to our diet but delivers them from plant and algae-based sources. A single daily dose of vEO Mega provides 1,200 mg of botanical omegas with 555 mg of ALA from flax seed oil and Incha Inchi oil, 100 mg of DHA from algae, 20 mg of GLA from borage oil, and a varied blend of other plant-sourced essential fatty acids.

Microplex VMz: A balanced formula of essential vitamins and bioavailable minerals carefully formulated to provide optimal levels of key micronutrients that support energy and immune functions.

OVERVIEW:

​The do-TERRA® Lifelong Vitality Program includes these antioxidant and energy cofactors:

-Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Helps shuttle fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production
-Alpha Lipoic Acid: Supports the production of ATP and acts as a powerful antioxidant in mitochondria
-Coenzyme Q10: Important coenzyme for energy production; supports heart health
-Quercetin: Provides powerful polyphenol antioxidant protection in mitochondria and other cell structures
-Resveratrol: Polyphenol found in red wine; supports healthy mitochonodrial biogenesis
-Vitamins and Minerals: Essential cofactors of energy production in cells
-Essential Fatty Acids: Required for cell growth; supports healthy cellular function

I also added in a high-quality probiotic supplement for gut health.  The majority of our immune system resides in the gut and I knew mine needed a heck of a lot of love.  I take PB Assist+ and recommend it to all Vestibular Warriors.

PB Assist+: a proprietary formula of pre-biotic fiber and six strains of probiotic microorganisms in a unique doublelayer vegetable capsule. It delivers 6 billion CFUs of active probiotic cultures and soluble pre-biotic FOS (fructooligosaccharides) that encourage friendly bacterial growth.

I talk a lot about oils around here!  I use Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils as a part of my pro-active natural treatment and they are a source of light in my life.  I also share my favorite oils for Vestibular Warriors as well as my go-to routine if symptoms heighten.  I started using pure plant oils a month into the vestibular stuff and I had absolutely no clue what I was doing, but I wanted holistic support.  I was receiving no help from doctors and I wanted to feel like I was doing something to elevate my wellness and support my body in healing.  A dear friend helped me get set up with oils and I never looked back.  They continue to be my main natural toolkit to support my health each and every day.  

I didn't embrace exercise until around a year in.  At that time, I believe I had healed mostly from vestibular neuritis, but was stuck in a cycle of vestibular migraines.  I felt ready to help my body find ground with movement and I was ready to take the step into exercise.  I started slowww.  In my book I talk about discovering Kait Hurley's move + meditate workouts.  I had never meditated before and yoga was also relatively new to me.  I felt so unstable when I started the workouts but over days, weeks and months I started to find ground within my body and gain strength.  It was empowering and it was around this time (15 months in) that I started to feel like I was coming back to life.  I certainly had more progress to make, but I was making strides because of these workouts and it felt fantastic.

I started running again 19 months in and it truly brought me back to life.  It built the confidence that had been dampened along the way.  I still love to run, but prefer more yoga-type workouts these days.

I share these things because they were within my control and that alone gave me some relief.  I had the power to make strides in my wellness.  There are absolutely other things that helped along the way (connecting with others, mindset, craniosacral + chiropractic work, foam rolling, and later a migraine medication (which was the hammer to finish the job)- visit the Vestibular Warrior Wellness Hub for more holistic goodness), but my life "VRT", nourishing diet, oils and supplements were an important step in my healing.  They continue to be a driver in my glowing wellness.

I hope that you found this post helpful and if you have any questions please feel free to reach out.

-Em

Hi there!

I found that when I was journeying along with my vestibular something (vestibular neuritis + vestibular migraines), it was one thing to slap a label on it, and a completely other thing to truly talk about how it felt. It was easy for a doctor to tell me I was experiencing dizziness, but that wasn't a fair description of it. I felt like I was floating 24/7 and that my world was off-kilter for months and months. Dizziness hardly summed up the complexity of how it felt.

Below I share several symptoms of vestibular migraines, but of course there are others. Our experiences may not be identical, but often there is great resemblance. I hope that my honest account provides a light for others journeying with vestibular migraines, trying to make sense of their symptoms.

Something I want to note is that my symptoms sort of evolved over time. The first year my symptoms were 24/7 and it was hard to make sense of the vestibular neuritis symptoms vs. vestibular migraine attacks. However, after the first year I had a better sense of the ups and downs, and attacks (or regressions as I called them) became much more clear. The symptoms were never identical from one attack to the next. For example, I never got extremely nauseous in the beginning; however, my last attack in July (which passed within hours, so grateful for that!), nausea/vomiting was a part of that episode. Lovely, I know. I point this out just to showcase that symptoms were not always consistent. What I discuss below is an array of the symptoms that I experienced over the course of eighteen months.

I discuss these symptoms from VEDA's website.  The full article can be read here. 

DISSOCIATIVE SYMPTOMS- this was my biggest symptom and the worst; it included derealization (disconnected from my environment) and depersonalization (disconnected from my body)

ANXIETY/PANIC- this spike was often my telltale sign of what was to follow

LIGHTHEADEDNESS- feeling like I might faint (this is a symptoms I experienced throughout my twenties along with derealization)

PHOTOPHOBIA- sensitivity to light or intolerance of light

VERTIGO- feeling like my world was spinning even though I was still

VISUAL ISSUES / DIMINISHED EYE FOCUS- difficulty focusing my eyes and my world appearing skewed (although I could completely see)

SPACIAL DISORIENTATION- suddenly needing to make sense of where I was; feeling unaware of my body's position

NAUSEA- this symptom made an appearance at times making me lose my appetite (and on a few occasions get sick)
​
NECK PAIN- this would often happen before other symptoms showed up; turning my neck would become difficult and painful to the touch

I talk all about what derealization/depersonalization felt like in the below video.  It was as if I was living behind a window (read this blog post).  It was my worst symptom and the one that I felt kept me hostage to my vestibular condition.  

The anxiety that came with my vestibular condition was a beast that could not be ignored.  In Uncovering Bliss, I write: "​The anxiety that came with my vestibular condition could, and often did, bring me to my knees. Crumbling on my bedroom floor because it felt so heavy. I’d succumb to a pile on the ground. It was a physical anxiety that felt like it was swimming in my veins. It was animal and rarely felt connected to my mental state. The initial event had set it free in my system. Anxiety isn’t even the correct word for it... It was much more a fight-or-flight feeling that was so intense it felt like a tight sweater glued to my body that I couldn’t rip off."

Doctors would easily brush the condition of as simply anxiety, but I'd push back.  No way this was just anxiety- there was much more to it.

You know that feeling of being close to passing out?  That's exactly how this symptom felt.  Oddly I did faint a few times in my twenties and looking back I think I was experiencing a silent migraine, but at the time I couldn't make sense of it.  This symptom is certainly disconcerting 

I think I'll forever hate the lights in big box stores.  I remember the first time I went to Target after it all hit and it felt near impossible to move about the store.  As if the lights were trying to hurt me.  Their brightness was overwhelming and my body was screaming "stop!!!".  

I spent a long while working with the lights off in my office and now I wear blue light blocking glasses (I love these ones) whenever I'm under florescent lights.  The glasses make it so my eyes can relax a bit...and they're cute, so that helps (kidding).  

Vertigo is feeling off balanced, like you're spinning or your world is spinning.  As I mentioned, the first year my symptoms were constant, so nothing felt spontaneous.  It was a blur of dizzy awfulness.  However, as I was climbing to the 18-month mark and I was really improving, I very much could feel the ups and downs that came with episodes.  I have a memory of various attacks when vertigo hit out-of-the-blue.  In one attack which I detail in Uncovering Bliss, I climbed into my bed with my winter coat and boats still on as my world spun.  I wished closing my eyes made it all go away, but unfortunately it did not.  The spinning was intense and anyone who has dealt with it knows that it's miserable.   

After the initial event of vestibular neuritis hitting, my eyes went sideways.  That makes no sense to read, but it's absolutely how it felt.  In the first few days I was whipping my head back and forth as if to shake it off.  My eyes stopping focusing like they used to.  Focusing my eyes, something that I never thought about previously became something I had to give a concerted effort to make happen.  Also, my world felt skewed and this was something that improved over time.  This goes along with the whole viewing my life through a window thing.  The time came when I started to see a crack in the window and it was miraculous.  Then the window would shut and I'd be back behind it in my skewed world.  I'm sure if you've deal with a vestibular something you understand what I'm saying.

An example of this is me being somewhere that's familiar and suddenly feeling like I had to gauge my surroundings to better understand where I was.  As if things had moved and I wasn't exactly sure where I stood.  I remember turning around in a circle trying to gather my surroundings.  It's a bizarre feeling.

This one is pretty self explanatory.  Nausea and vomiting are miserable for anyone to experience, but add the other vestibular symptoms into the mix and it became the least of my worries at times.  I only actually got sick a few times, but the nausea certainly made a presence.  In the early days with the vestibular stuff it impacted my appetite.  I was drinking a lot of smoothies to fuel my body.

My neck would get stiff and often it would become difficult and painful to turn my head.  Sometimes this symptom would hit before the others as a warning of what was to come.  On many occasions you could find me lying on my foam roller, trying to get some mobility back.  It would often take days to get better.

Hi hi!

This is a fun post to write.  I'm basically just telling you a few of the wonderful things that make a difference in my life with vestibular migraines.  Three years ago my symptoms were 24/7 and now I rarely deal with symptoms, which I'm beyond grateful for.  It's been a journey!  My mission these days is to do everything I can to elevate my wellness and feel my best.  It's about being proactive with my health rather than reactive.  That's what these gifts are all about.  Feeling empowered when it comes to wellness is the heart + soul of Bliss Out.

I hope you enjoy these gifts and I'd love to hear if you gift any of this items to yourself (that's a beautiful self-love gift!) or if you ask a loved one to purchase a gift for you.  Let's keep spreading the goodness!

This oils trio is first on my list because I believe giving the gift of wellness support is a happy one!  I started using this trio back in November when it was released and I'm so excited about it for Vestibular Warriors.  It is beautiful all-around mind & body support.  Not only is this a gift of holistic support, it's also a happy introduction into the world of certified pure therapeutic grade oils.  I embraced the oils life back in the fall of 2016 when I was sinking deep in the vestibular stuff.  It was such a positive outlet for me, and I love sharing this gift with others.  

I've linked each of the gifts below.  My mission is to create a little happiness with these gifts.  Here's the scene:

You're in a cozy chair with your Rasa on the side table in your mug keeping it hot, and a good book in your hands.  I'd love if it were my new book because it's a gift for all vestibular warriors.  It's a piece of love and light.  You've got your blue light blocking glasses on and the Adaptiv oil blend on your wrists [all things calming + combats anxiety].  You've got oils diffusing creating your happy environment and cleansing the air around you.  Lastly, you've got something delicious cooking (from the Oh She Glows cookbook) that will fuel your body in a blissful way.

How does that scene sound?  

Thank you for the love and support, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday season!

-Em

OTHER RESOURCES:

Get Em's book: Uncovering Bliss: A Journey with a Vestibular Condition & Beyond
​Vestibular Warrior Wellness Hub + Resources
YouTube Videos [Vestibular Warrior]
Oils Routine for Vestibular Warriors
​Em's Routine When Symptoms Heighten
​Migraine Vegan Diet
Bliss Out Vibes Podcast for Vestibular Warriors
​Contact Em

Hi there.  I'm assuming because you're reading this post that you're very likely journeying with a vestibular condition, and therefore you understand parts of me immediately... because, well, you just get what it's like.

On October 31, 2016, my vestibular something hit.  I thought it was a cold virus that would pass.  I thought I'd sleep it off.  Twenty-four hours later my symptoms had only intensified to the point that walking felt near impossible and the deep rooted fear was coursing my system like fire.  After going to multiple doctor appointments and receiving no concrete answers, guess what my next step was to find answers...

You got it.  I started Googling my symptoms.  I found a lot of really helpful information [especially on VEDA], but I also wanted to hear from someone in my shoes.  I wanted to talk to someone who had been in the darkness and tell me they had made it through.  I wanted to have a heart-to-heart, so I could find some relief in my fear.

In time I found that support groups existed on Facebook for people with a vestibular something and it meant the world to me (I now run Vestibular Warrior).  I also couldn't believe that there were so many other people in the darkness that I was navigating.  I had thought that I was alone...

​I posted the below in a support group back in July 2017 searching for what my soul needed to hear... and I connected with incredible Vestibular Warriors who took the time to share their stories and help me piece together mine.  I was lost.  I had so many questions...

Recently, someone told me that they were in awe of how "together" I was about my vestibular migraine stuff.  I laughed and could have hugged that person. 

I had to unravel to rebuilt the pieces of myself.  I went the better part of year feeling like I was floating away...a solid 18 months living behind my window [derealization/dissociative symptoms] and longer with the unease and fight-or-flight mode that my vestibular something instilled.

The experience with vestibular neuritis + vestibular migraines took away every comfort in my inner being.  If you're living with a vestibular something, I know you understand.  I looked in the mirror at a woman I didn't recognize and I trudged through life in a body that I desperately wanted to feel connected to.

Around two years in I was finding myself in a grounded body.  I felt like I had come back to life.  The experience had been earthshaking and I knew I couldn't be silent about it.  I knew from being in the darkness that there were so many others needing to find their light.  I knew that there were so many looking to be understood.

And so I started writing.

​It started with creating Bliss Out, this wellness space, in December 2018, and sharing more about my experience in blog posts.  

My next step was compiling the holistic support that had been a huge part of my healing in the Vestibular Warrior Wellness Hub.

Then I started talking about my experience on YouTube (Vestibular Warrior channel).  

But I had more to say and my heart and soul felt like it was still processing the experience.  So earlier this year, I started writing my book and just let the words flow...I'd write and then put it away for weeks, and then bring it back when I felt ready.

Ultimately, I wanted to create what I so badly needed when I was in the throes of vestibular symptom hell, relentlessly trudging.  I wanted to share my feelings and what the symptoms felt like.  I wanted to showcase the corners of my mind and the thoughts that danced in my head.  I wanted to show a journey through the dark and finding the light.

So my mission with Uncovering Bliss is to expose the mind and body experience and tell my story because if someone out there is trudging along needing a friend on the trail, they can turn to my book.  Or maybe my book can be a tool to give to friends/family so they have a better idea what it feels like for their loved one. 

I was at a loss for words when I was in the messy middle.  The words that flow so easily for me now just didn't exist in the chaotic storm.  It was beautifully therapeutic to write my book and so it's a gift to myself as well.  A way to release what's been on my heart and soul and hopefully help others do the same.

​Thank you for your support and kindness.  It means so much to me.

Hi out there!

I'm back, and with pink hair.  I finally dyed it the color I wanted when I was 16.  Only took me close to 17 years.  

We just put up our Christmas tree and I'm sitting on the couch beneath the lights.  It was just around this time last year when I created Bliss Out... I've got David Gray "This Year's Love" playing in my headphones.  The first time I heard the song was while watching Dawson's Creek close to 15 years ago.  I used to only buy soundracks.  If I liked a movie or a show, I'd go search out the soundtrack.  Don't worry, I've evolved...a bit.  I've compiled a list of many of my favorite songs (right now) on Spotify (search Bliss Out by Emily Englert).  

Anyways- I swear I didn't pop in to just ramble.  For starters, I'm really here with a very happy update. 

I'm here to announce the release of my book. YAYYYY!!!  It's called Uncovering Bliss: A Journey with a Vestibular Condition and Beyond.  I started writing it close to a year ago and then put it down for a while during the move to Seattle.  In the last few months I jumped back in with my heart and soul finishing it up.  I was in a beautiful place to reflect on the last three+ years and what that chapter of my life means to me.  My mission is to bring a voice to the mind & body experience of a vestibular condition and expose the thoughts and feelings that decorated my journey.  It was so difficult to explain what it felt like in the moment and it's only in retrospect that it's been much easier.  If someone is in the beginning or messy middle with a vestibular something, I want them to have a friend on the trail.  

It's available in e-book and softcover format, and I so appreciate your inspiration and support.  

And now let's talk about month two of weaning off my migraine-preventive medicine.  This is a topic I touch on in my book.  I think it's important to expose the story and the why behind my decision to try a migraine medication.  It's such a personal journey, but I know it's one so many of us travel.  If you're new, I encourage you to read my first post and on month one, and then come back here.

Well, it has been an uneventful month as far as decreasing my medication dosage.  Boy am I grateful for that!  I'm taking it slow and I'm not quite sure how long the process will take, but my guess is the better part of a year.  My mission is to take it slowww and steady.  To let my body acclimate with each shift and provide beautiful holistic support every step of the way.

I've been keeping up with the routine I started from the beginning:

I was so tempted to have coffee over the Thanksgiving holiday.  I was feeling so good and really thought about it.  But then I remember the VM attack I had post downing of a cold brew coffee in July and I convinced myself that it was not worth the dreamy cup of joe.  I proceeded to order myself Rasa on Black Friday because there was a happy deal and oh how I love the cacao flavor.

I've honestly been feeling really awesome this month.  I had a few nights of head pain, but nothing oils, chugging water, some heat and sleep didn't kick.  As we jump into December, I plan to dive more into move + meditate workouts each morning.  I mean I have no excuse... the Christmas tree lights are glowing and I couldn't ask for a better personal yoga studio by the tree ;)

How are you doing?

I'd love to hear from you!

Before I broke through the vestibular migraine hold, I felt like I was living behind and viewing my life through a window.  This feeling was every moment of every day.  My body wasn’t allowing me to fully comprehend my surroundings.  I could see but it always felt like I was looking through a window, and sometimes not a very clean one.  In the beginning it was terrifying.  It’s every moment and it’s a thick glassy window. 

I was banging on the window screaming out to the rest of the world and everyone was looking as if to say, “We see you.  You look perfectly fine.” 

Then I’d yell back, “What’s with the window?!”

“What window are you talking about?”, the world responded.

I’d feel a pang in my heart as it started to sink in.  Just because the window was very real for me, in no way meant that the rest of the world could see it.  If you have journeyed with a vestibular something, there’s a good chance you know exactly what I’m saying.

[Note: VeDA states on its website: “…a large portion of people with migraine often have no accompanying pain, their predominant symptom instead being vertigo (a spinning sensation) or dizziness/ disequilibrium (balance loss), mental confusion, disorientation, dysarthria, visual distortion or altered visual clarity, or extremity paresis. This presentation may result in a visit to the emergency room and extensive laboratory, imaging, and other diagnostic evaluations—often with normal results, which lead to increased confusion and anxiety on the part of the patient.”] 

​My understanding of vestibular migraines from the many Vestibular Warriors that I connected with was that I was dealing with a nervous system problem.  My eyes fill with tears as I type those symptoms because each one makes my heart hurt.  Flashes of memories dance in my head.  The dizziness lasted well over a year.  The rocking boat feeling lasted a solid nine months.  The feeling of unease was a part of me for far too long.  My symptoms involved dissociative symptoms, which include derealization (feeling disconnected from your environment) and depersonalization (feeling disconnected from your body), repeated dizziness (or vertigo), nausea and vomiting, balance problems, lightheadedness, photophobia (sensitivity to light), visual issues and feeling unsteady.

Sometimes the window that I looked through would be super clean and I would almost think it wasn’t there but then out of nowhere the smudge would return and my heart would sink.  I just had that thing cleaned, what happened!?  This window stuff sounds sort of trippy, right?  Yeah, that’s my vestibular stuff for you, only there’s no party and no one is on the dance floor, and it’s more like a bad dream that doesn’t quit.

I learned to live from behind this figurative window.  No one else could see it, so it was just a matter of building up my confidence so that I could do everything I once did but this time from behind my window.  In time, I did just that.  Everything I learned to do from behind my window only empowered me on my journey of healing.  I went to work, was a nurturing and caring mother to two little boys, I cooked meals, just simply showed up, found the power in meditation, and eventually found myself running the trails again and finding everything I felt I’d lost- all from behind my window.

I created a beautiful life behind my window and developed a mindset that I could do anything even with my window.  That’s when something magical happened.

Around fifteen months in with symptoms all day, every day to varying degrees, I started to notice that my window was slightly open.  The first time I noticed it, what I felt was pure bliss.  I hadn’t seen life without my window in what felt like an eternity, and I had started to forget what life looked like without it.  I didn’t know whether to sob happy tears or scream, or tell everyone in a one-mile radius, so I just danced in the kitchen (more on that in Uncovering Bliss).

In the beginning the window didn’t stay open completely.  It would open, and stormy days would blow it a bit closed.  Eventually, my toolkit kept it open.

Every day I stop to look at the world longer than I ever did before, because with vestibular stuff there’s a before and after, and my aftermath started out a thick smudgy window with lots of rainy days.  Over time, with persistence, putting self-care first, nourishing my body, refusing to look backwards and finding a doctor who understood, I stepped through.  I thank the universe for giving me the support to shatter my window.  These days I rarely have moments behind it.  It happens here and there, and it again ignites a new sense of gratitude when I find my balance.

​If you’re behind your window, I can step alongside you and point towards the direction of hope.  I want you to know that you’re not alone even though I know behind there it often feels so isolating.  I can only share what has helped me break my window.  By sharing, it heals the pieces of me that were wounded as I pounded that window with my fists and eventually found the hammer to finish the job.  By telling my story all the parts that were bruised as I stepped through the shattered glass are exposed.

For a while I wanted to be all perfectly put together because I figured then the world would never know about my secret window.  Now I want to show the pieces of broken glass, so others know that it’s possible to step through.  It’s not an easy journey and it has certainly left its mark, but that broken glass is now an incredible reminder of the power of the human spirit.

[this post is a chapter from my book, Uncovering Bliss]

Hi out there!

One of the ways I most often connect with other Vestibular Warriors is through sharing the mind and body experience of my vestibular condition.  It's an avenue that I'm incredibly excited about and one you'll be hearing more about very soon (hint: book!).  

I recently shared on my FAQ page the symptoms I experienced during the messy middle of my vestibular condition and vestibular migraine episodes.  Although the beginning and middle were more like a mashup of symptoms that I couldn't make sense of.  Here's a quick glance:

There are many factors that went into play when it comes to my healing from vestibular neuritis and tackling the vestibular migraine episodes.  It certainly wasn't overnight.  That feeling being disconnected from my body and environment- I had to address it in the  moment over and over (and over!) again.  I had to force myself to be in the moment, which as I'm sure you understand is no small task when you feel like you're in the Upside Down aka alternate reality (watch: Stranger Things on Netflix).

​Healing happens on a deep level and it's about nourishing the mind and body, and providing it holistic support every step of the way. 

But in the moment when the dissociative symptoms were flooding my system and I felt disconnected from myself, I needed to develop a plan of action when the symptoms were crashing. 

Keep in mind that this is all based on my personal experience, so please listen to your own body and do what works best for you.  That is always what is most important.  Here's my action plan when the symptoms were at their worst or when I really needed to pull myself back into reality (or at least try!):

MOVEMENT + MEDITATION - Kait Hurley's workouts

I had to get moving and get my mental state in a different place.  I know this is easier said than done.  I started doing yoga-like workouts 18 months in and they were a game changer.  After days, weeks and months I started to feel more grounded in my body.  They still are a huge part of my wellness routine.  I share about Kait Hurley's workouts all the time.  I can roll out of bed and start a workout.  In the beginning, that's exactly what I did every day.  It felt really hard at first.  But it was worth it.  My mind and body says a big thank you!

USING MY BRAIN

I know this is strange to say because we're always using our brain...  Have you tried doing math while being in a derealized state?  It's hard!  I would force my brain to get working and in doing so it would make me feel more present.  Now this was rarely math, but I'd dive into work projects that required me to push beyond the fog.  This took a lot of practice, but with time it got a lot easier.

HOLISTIC SUPPORT

So much goodness to share here!  In the beginning I was going to the chiropractor a few times each week and getting cranial sacral therapy.  Another thing that helped was walking in the grass (barefoot, if possible) and quite literally feeling the earth beneath my feet, letting me know I still was on solid ground even if it didn't feel that way.  A holistic doctor recommended this to me and it was a really good tip and one I need to remember more often.  None of it was an overnight fix, but it provided support.

In the moment, I turned to pure plant oils (and still do every single day).  Nothing like a dab of Peppermint under the nose, on my temples and around my hairline to bring me more into the moment.  It was recommended to me to pair a mantra with an oil blend that I loved.  A reassuring blend (made of Fractionated Coconut Oil, Vetiver Root, Lavender Plant, Ylang Ylang Flower, Frankincense Resin, Clary Sage Flower/Leaf, Marjoram Leaf, Labdanum Leaf/Stalk, Spearmint Herb) spoke to my soul.  I would tell myself I am grounded while rolling the oil on my temples and wrists.  I know it sounds woo-woo, but it was comfort for my heart and soul.  I used my oils hourly as needed and they still play a big role in my wellness.  

WRITING + CONNECTING

This sort of goes along with the brain tip, but letting my emotions flow and connecting with other Vestibular Warriors in support groups in the moment was incredibly helpful.  I could say the words "I feel disconnected" and immediately feel understood.  I didn't start sharing about my experience until close to a year in, but writing became incredibly therapeutic and coming up with the words to describe how I was feeling and sending them out to the universe was healing in itself.  

CREATING MY REALITY

This is a big one.  This is the one that required a mindset shift and work on it each and every day.  Just because I felt disconnected did not mean that I actually was disconnected from my life.  Read that again if you need to.  My point is that I needed to create my world.  So even if it felt awful, it was up to me to make it better.  To find happiness in the small moments and try to laugh each and every day.  To find the light in the dark... This was such a process. 

My last intense attack was over the summer and in a flash I was back behind my window pounding to break free.  I turned to each of the above items to find my way out:

-reaching out (by text) to a Vestibular Warrior who understood and could be a friend by my side
-writing about my experience because I knew sharing would help others
-telling myself that I was ok, saying the mantra "I am safe. I am grounded..."
-following my routine when symptoms intensify with oils
-going for a walk and feeling my feet beneath me

That day, the dizziness did intensify, I threw-up out the passenger door as my husband drove me home (awful, I know) and crawled into my bed.  But within a few hours I came back around and I felt confidence having given it my all and fighting back.  Sometimes that's all we can ask for.

​I hope that you found this helpful.  If you too deal with this symptom (or other VM symptoms), I'm sending love and light your way.  I know how hard it is to go through the motions in that state and I applaud you for showing up.  

You got this.

Em :)

Hi there!

I'm back in the blogging groove and it feels good!  I started a health and wellness blog back in 2013, and used to loved pouring my heart out...rambling basically about running, vegan eats and motherhood.  That was long before the vestibular stuff hit and I had any idea how it would shift my world.  Launching my first site did ignite the fire to connect with others wanting to thrive in this beautiful life though.  That's still my goal with Bliss Out and I believe that glowing wellness is at the heart of it all.  

When it comes to life with vestibular migraines my whole goal is basically not to have vestibular migraines...so essentially life without vestibular migraines.  This takes my being proactive in my wellness routine.  Not waiting for an attack and then figuring out what I'll do, but rather putting myself in a position so that attacks are a lot less likely to happen and if I start to feel symptoms creep, I know I need to step up my game.

I share my full wellness routine and essential oils routine, but today I'm focusing on what I do when I start to feel a light ache.  As if the pain wants to break through, but my body is trying really hard to fight back.  It's a signal to me that things could get a lot worse.

During the 18-months when my symptoms were much more intense, I rarely dealt with any migraine pain (the classic symptom).  To be honest I'd take pain any day over the vestibular symptoms (migraine dizziness, pressure in head and ears, derealization, disconnected/off kilter feelings, nausea).  However, these days (three years later after my initial attack) my symptoms are no longer 24/7 and they do not make a daily appearance.  When I do feel anything, it's generally much more subtle and a sign to me that I need to turn to my holistic toolkit.

Copaiba (the oil I'm using in this clip) is one of the most anti-inflammatory substances on earth and I love it!  It's properties also include antibacterial, antioxidant & antimicrobial.  Good stuff, friends. 

When I feel migraine pain trying to breakthrough, my first step is always to grab a glass of water and my oils. 

-I chug the glass of water (and make sure to stay hydrated) and think through how I want to combat the symptoms and support my body with my oils.  I used to be awful at drinking water and it's something I now know I need to remind myself to do.  "Step away from the latte, Emily.  Water, now!"

-I then use my essential oils throughout the day.  Not just once, but generally every hour.  Copaiba essential oils (certified pure therapeutic grade oil, only!) can be used topically and taken internally.  This oil's properties combat pain and inflammation therefore helping with headaches and migraines.  I take two drops of the oil in a veggie capsule every 3-4 hours (or use the softgels depending what I have on hand at the moment).  I use the roller bottle every hour applyint it to my temples, forehead and back of my neck.  [I added Adaptiv oil blend to my roller bottle as well for all the calming vibes]

Three years ago I knew close to nothing about essential oils.  I had no idea how to use them or how they could support my glowing wellness.  

Today they are the main component in my wellness routine, along with a plant-based diet and exercise, when it comes to thriving in this life with vestibular migraines- and BEYOND. 

​My mission is to basically lead a life without vestibular migraines.  That would be the ideal vestibular migraine life.  That makes sense, right? ;)

Oils are certainly not the only thing I depend on to support my health and help me maintain my balanced state.  If you feel drawn towards oils, visit my other resources and please reach out to me with questions.

Vestibular Warrior Oils Routine

My Routine During a Vestibular Migraine Attack [to thrive!]

Below are several other vestibular migraine natural treatments that I embrace to promote vibrant health:

Vestibular Migraine Prevention Diet [my version is vegan!]

move + meditate workouts

I hope that you have a wonderful day!

Em :)

Hi there!

It's been a week of reflecting over the last three years over here.  Today marks three years since vestibular neuritis hit, which triggered a cycle of vestibular migraines, none of which I could make sense of or understand in the beginning.  Everything is only so much clearer in retrospect.  I shared an episode today on the Bliss Out Vibes podcast talking about the power that we hold when it comes to our healing.  I also tell a story about an experience with a doctor that felt soul-crushing at the time, but created the shift I needed to keep showing up and relentlessly pushing forward.  

I'm sharing my story so that someone sitting in their beginning with vestibular neuritis or vestibular migraines is given a piece of hope.  So they know that they are not alone even though vestibular conditions can feel so isolating.  I'm sharing because three years ago I needed to hear someone else's story to help me find the light in mine, and I have since connected with many incredible Vestibular Warriors who have been such a light in my life.  It's a gift that I want to give back.  

I'm going to share what the last three years looked like merely to paint a picture of what healing has been for me.  Of course our stories will be different and just because my story looks a certain way doesn't mean it's right or wrong, it's just how the path unfolded for me.  I'm still traveling along that path.  I can gratefully say that I've recovered my wellness and continuing to do everything I can to promote vibrant health.

I went to many doctors before the term vestibular neuritis was said to me.  It was a physical therapist who stated that it probably was what I was dealing with, but I had come across the term on the internet prior to meeting with her.  The symptoms made sense and I so badly wanted to put a label on what I was experiencing.  My youngest was three months old when it hit.  I was full of so much love and so thankful for my beautiful baby while simultaneously feeling stuck in the darkness of my vestibular something searching for answers.   [For more information on vestibular neuritis, visit here]

Around a year in, I felt like I had climbed a huge mountain.  The floating feeling had faded along with the mental fatigue.  I was feeling so much more like myself; although, changed from the experience (I talk about mindset (our superpower) in my e-book Vestibular Warrior).  My symptoms became more erratic though, with ups and downs that I couldn't make sense of.  I'd have days of feeling 80% better and then I'd get swarmed with symptoms.  I started talking more with other Vestibular Warriors and a fellow mom mentioned to me that my symptoms seemed a lot like what she was dealing with, which was vestibular migraines.

It all started to make sense... the periods of feeling better (not 100%, but so close) and then unexpected regressions as I had called them.  The vestibular migraine label fit and so I started working to address that. [For more information on vestibular migraines, visit here]

My main symptoms included:
-derealization, like I was looking at my life from behind a window
-my eyes not wanting to focus, more intensely during episodes
-out of the blue anxiety attack
-like I was walking on a trampoline during attacks
-nausea + dizziness during an attack
-rarely any migraine pain

Nourishing plant-based diet, supplements, essential oils, move + meditate workouts, chiropractic adjustments, running (eventually)... it all became so important to maintain my wellness and continue to heal during the second year.  Diet + essential oils are still, and always will be, a crucial part of my everyday wellness routine to thrive.  I started a migraine-preventive medicine 19 months in that broke the constant cycle of attacks that happened weekly.  That's a whole other story though that I share here.  

I hit 100% around the two-year mark and have enjoyed the last year with a gratitude that cannot be explained.  I haven't been completely symptom free, but they only make an occasional appearance these days.  I had three intense episodes in the last year that I was able to dig myself out of within the day. 

It's felt like the greatest gift and I'm reminded of that gift - the grounded, balanced state - every day.

As I mentioned in a recent post, I'm working to wean off the migraine medicine.  I believe in holistic health and I want to give my body the opportunity to find its balance.  It's going to be a process and something I will share here.  

HOLISTIC NUTRITION

I'm back in school studying holistic nutrition all inspired by my journey with a vestibular something.  I want to be deeply in touch with the art of healing.

SHARING THE OILS LIFE

I'm sharing the essential oils life because it's been such a happy place even in the darkness of the vestibular stuff.  I love giving others the gift of owning their wellness through a holistic toolkit.

OWNING OUR WELLNESS

I want to be a part of the empowered movement for all of us living with a vestibular condition to take ownership of our wellness.  The movement already exists which is evident, but so many are still lost in the darkness.  There was a time that I was sinking in it.

​We all deserve to find light.

This three-year anniversary marks a year of finding my balance and making life shifts in the direction of my choosing. 

I want this next year to be a deeper focus on holistic health and what that means not only for me, but all of us Vestibular Warriors embracing life and embodying  glowing wellness- with a vestibular condition and beyond.  It's a beautiful thing.

I hope this post finds you well.  But please know, that if you are in your beginning with vestibular neuritis, vestibular migraines, or another vestibular condition, and feeling utterly lost, just know that your beginning is a beautiful place to start.

​Em :)

Hi hi!

I promised I'd be back to document the process of weaning off my migraine medication.  If you haven't read my first post, stop by here first.  It's only been a month, so while that's not a long period of time, it's a start.  Got to start somewhere, right? 

This post is about what I'm doing to level up my holistic support game as I wean off the migraine-preventive medication.  I know that the weaning process can cause symptoms and side effects and I'm trying to make this transition as blissful as possible.  I'm really excited to have developed a routine.  It certainly gives me confidence as well as mind & body support as I tackle this this next path in my vestibular journey.  

I am a lover of pure plant essential oils.  That's no secret.  I started using oils in the months after I was diagnosed with vestibular neuritis, and three years later, I've never looked back.  It has been one of the best decisions I've made for my wellness, especially in the throes of healing from a hellish vestibular condition.  

I'm going to share the main holistic support I'm focusing on right now.  My plan is to meet with a new neurologist soon and (hopefully) gain some insight on decreasing my dosage slowly but surely.  If you're finding this post and wanting to do the same, awesome!  Let's embark on this journey together.  I recommend that you work with your doctor on the best way to wean off your particular migraine medication and the dosage decrease that you should follow.  Then it's up to you to implement the beautiful holistic goodness to support YOU. 

Ok, here I go!​ 

ADAPTIV CALMING BLEND CAPSULES:
made of:  blend of CPTG essential oils Lavender, Coriander, Wild Orange, and Fennel along with Sceletium, GABA, and Ahiflower.  [note: GABA, helps promote relaxation.]
benefits:  calms and promotes positive feelings; supports mood and helps improve state of mind; helps when acclimating to new surroundings and adapting to stressful situations; encourages relaxation; supports cognitive function and emotional balance; promotes mental well-being
how to: I take one Adaptiv Calming Blend Capsule daily to combat stress, tension, and occasional anxious feelings

ADAPTIV TOUCH (OIL BLEND): 
made of:  pure plant oils- Wild Orange, Lavender, Copaiba, Spearmint, Magnolia, Rosemary, Neroli, and Sweetgum in a base of Fractionated Coconut Oil
benefits: helps boost mood; assists in centering; increases feelings of tranquility; soothes and uplifts; reduces feelings of anxiousness and tension
how to:  I apply the roller to pulse points to help with feelings of balance; massage on my shoulders and neck to ease tension and relieve fatigue; and apply to hands, rub together, and inhale deeply as needed throughout the day; and roll on wrists and temples whenever I feel the need to gain composure quickly

TURMERIC CAPSULES:
made of: synergy of tumerones and curcuminoids, in order to maximize the effectiveness and benefits of both compounds for a healthy inflammatory response
benefits: combines the complementary benefits of both turmeric essential oil with the joint support of the curcuminoids of turmeric extract in a unique and convenient delivery system; helps support a healthy inflammatory response in the body (yes, please!)
how to:  I take a capsule (with Copaiba described below) before bed.  If I'm feeling a headache upon waking, I take a capsule in the morning as well

COPAIBA SOFTGELS:
made of:  copaiba resin
benefits:  powerful antioxidant; soothes and supports the nervous system
how to:  I take one softgel as needed, most often before bed with Turmeric capsule [note: I also take Copaiba if symptoms intensify, especially during a vestibular migraine attack]

PEPPERMINT OIL:
made of:  pure plant peppermint!
benefits: soothes/combats headache; invigorating; soothes stomach upset
how to:  I apply Peppermint to my temples when I first wake-up in the morning, and as needed all throughout the day.  It's my BFF oil ;)

The awesome thing about oils is although I'm using them to cater to my personal needs at this stage, they also support my overall glowing health.  I love that!  

I hope that you find this helpful and of course reach out if you have any questions!  

Also, if you want to join in the fun, I've included a link below that makes it simple for you to purchase each of the products I describe above (and any other oils you may be excited about!).  Note, doTERRA ships around the world, so if your home is outside the US, shoot me a quick message here and I'll help you order.  Upon ordering, you'll also receive a note and little gift from me.  Let me know if you're a Vestibular [and/or Migraine] Warrior too- I'd love to connect with you!  Be sure to visit the Vestibular Warrior Wellness Hub.

Sending happy vibes your way!!  See you next month with another update.

​Em :)

Hi there!

It's been a while (hello, six months) since I've written a blog post.  While I've been absent on the blog, there's been a lot happening in this space for Vestibular Warriors as well as in other areas of my life: cross country happy move from NY to Seattle, embracing our new home, exploring the city, I'm back in school studying holistic nutrition, in the process of finalizing a vestibular warrior project (more on that soon, promise!) and... beginning the weaning of my migraine medication.

Woah, that was a mouthful.

I contemplated sharing the process of coming off migraine medication the same way that I questioned sharing my life with vestibular neuritis/vestibular migraines.  I was silent for a [dark] while, then sharing became a light in my life and a beautiful part of my healing.  Ultimately, I know that I must share.  Creating Bliss Out has always been about bringing to fruition what I so desperately needed in the thick of the vestibular messy middle.  It's about holistic health and a hub for us to own our wellness.  Even better, a place to create our glowing wellness. 

Sharing the ups and downs of my story has meant the world to me because I know there are so many others walking similar trails trying to figure out this vestibular migraine life (or any migraine or vestibular condition, insert yours here).  I want to share while I'm in the throes rather than after the fact, especially because there's a possibility that you're going through something similar and we can support one another.  Us Vestibular Warriors get each other in a way that no one else does and for that I'm beyond grateful.  

So, here I go talking about my next step.  I've begun the process of weaning off my migraine-preventive medication.

The short answer:  I was done with the out-of-the-blue attacks that would sink me deep back into the vestibular migraine symptoms (derealization, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, eyes drifting).  That being said, I wanted to heal naturally and I didn't want a medication covering up my symptoms.  It was a conflict within me.  My worst episode was in the weeks before I started the medication.  I was out to lunch on vacation and my world went sideways.  I wanted a quick(er) fix.  

The long answer:  At nineteen months in I was tired of the surprise attacks and ready to try something else.  Looking back I certainly could have made a different decision, but this felt right at the time.  My symptoms had been 24/7 the first year (battling vestibular neuritis, most likely) and around year one I felt like there was something else at play.  I had no diagnosis and no doctor had mentioned vestibular migraines to me.  I was talking to a fellow vestibular warrior telling her how I felt so much better, but the symptoms were waxing and waning without predictability and I couldn't make sense of it.  She told me she understood completely and that she had been diagnosed with vestibular migraines.  Light-bulb moment!

At fifteen months in I was at a beautiful 90% better, which is freaking blissful compared to the hell of the first year.  I know that percentage is arbitrary to read, but I'll explain.  I'd be going along my merry way so close to touching normalcy and BAM.  I'd get swarmed with symptoms without warning and it would crush my soul and take days (and often longer) to come out of it.  I'd hit my happy 90% again having climbed the mountain out of the darkness and just as I got to the top and enjoyed the view, another episode would hit.  It was a vicious cycle that was draining.  So draining.

I wanted to heal completely holistically.  I wanted it so damn bad, and I still believe in it.  At eighteen months in I had my first appointment with a neurologist who specialized in vestibular migraines.  All her education and all she could offer me was medication...but I knew this going into the appointment.  I had made up my mind before I walked in her office that day.

​I was ready to get behind a medication to break the cycle.  That became our plan:  break the cycle and get off the medicine.  She had said ideally I'd go six months without symptoms and know it was time to start weaning

I highly recommend that you read Heal Your Headache by David Buchholz, M.D. to gain a better understanding on the medication available, but I'll give you the gist.  It's a medication taken daily with the hopes of stopping migraines before they start.  There are several different kinds:  tricyclic antidepressants,  calcium-channel blockers, beta blockers, SSRIs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids.  I went with the first option because it was the one I was most comfortable with.  [Note: I do not share the exact medication/dosage because we are all different when it comes to how our bodies react to medication]

In my opinion the medication only helped me go from 90% to 100% (most days) because my holistic game was so strong.  As I talk about in my 3-year update video, I have to keep up with my migraine diet (vegan by choice), supplements and holistic wellness routine.  The medication is just a piece of the puzzle, but I'll always put out there the reminder that it wasn't the thing that got me to 90%. 

It was the hammer that smashed my window.

I want to wean off the medication because I feel like I'm at a place in my life where I'm ready.  I've spent the last fifteen months on it and I've only had three more intense attacks, all of which I pulled myself through within the day.  That fact has been incredibly empowering.  The attacks did not take over my week.  They were a pronounced reminder of how much power I have in taking ownership of my wellness and my life.

Want the honest truth, though?  I want to prove to myself that I can do this holistically.  I deeply believe that we are meant to thrive in this life.  Our bodies are meant to heal and we are meant to feel that deep bliss that radiates from the soul.

Also, I don't know the consequences of being on the medication long-term, because while I'm thankful for the balance the medicine has assisted with, what if it's hurting my body in other ways?  I think about that stuff.

I'm taking it slow.  Slower than you think.  I'm not looking to shock my body.  My mission is a blissful gradual reduction if that exists.

I've already been stepping up my holistic wellness game with essential oils, plant powered supplements, meditation, Epsom salt baths, walks, and embracing all the happiness in this life.  Uncovering my bliss, which is all part of the journey.  Here's the breakdown of what my holistic routine looks like if that interests you.  It's an area I'm super passionate about and the reason I'm back studying holistic nutrition. 

My Wellness Routine // supplements + food
My Essential Oils Daily Routine
What I Do When Symptoms Heighten // Oils Routine 
My Vegan Migraine Diet

Keep in mind, I'm not perfect!  I don't always follow the diet, I love [vegan] desserts and Four Sigmatic Coffee.  I'm human.  It's a learning process.  I also change up my oils routine as I see fit, but I share a lot of that over on Instagram.  I'm vestibular_warrior if you want to connect!

I'm also working with a functional neurologist.  I did the Dutch kit and learned a bit more about my body and my hormone/cortisol levels.  I've always been interested in exploring this avenue given that everything hit three months postpartum.  I'm currently taking natural supplements from him and hoping that further helps me get off the migraine medicine.

Hey Universe, are you listening?  I need your guidance on this one...

My point is that I have no idea.  I will be listening to my body completely and going with the flow.  Six months to a year would be my guess at this point, and probably closer to the year if I'm being realistic.  It took me 4 months to get to the dosage I'm at, so I would anticipate doubling that time to come off of it.  I'm still waiting to get in with a neurologist to hopefully provide some guidance.  Thus far, the internet and talking with other vestibular warriors has been my main supporter, but then again, that's been the case for so much of this vestibular stuff.  

I also will be providing updates here throughout the process.  That way I'll remember all the little details and we can root for one another as we uncover our bliss.

I worked from home one day recently and had the opportunity to spend the day with my three-year-old and it was so much fun.  I rarely get any alone time with him and taking a walk with him on lunch and listening to all he had to say just lit my heart up with so much love.  He was a newborn when all the vestibular stuff hit and his life is essentially a timeline for my healing.  I starred into his eyes as my world felt like it was crumbling in the early days with the vestibular stuff and look into them now so grateful for where I am, and where I'm going.

Thank you for visiting Bliss Out.  If you think someone else could benefit from this post, please share.  I want all the good vibes going around.

​Em :)

I remember saying out loud I'd rather lose my arm than go through this.  That's not a fair statement to say and I know that now, but in the throes of the vestibular hell I was angry...but that was really just a cover for the sadness.   And in the darkest moments the derealization was so intense I felt like I was losing my grip on reality.  What if I fall into the darkness?

​One of the things I encounter most when talking with other vestibular warriors is the feeling of desperation.  I know that feeling intimately.  I have a clear memory of the time that I was driving and I felt the anxiety spike.  That raging anxiety that warned me the vestibular storm was on its way.  I safely pulled over in a parking lot and got out of the car.  Sure enough my world was off kilter and I no longer was connected to the body that was apparently mine.  The tears starting falling as I tried to spatially gather my surroundings.  All I felt was overwhelming fear and desperation.  That's the dark part of that story.

The light is that I did gather myself even though I was rattled to my core.  I showed up that day like nothing had happened and I somehow made it through.  And because I did that, I looked that desperation in the eye.  The fear didn't disappear that day, but it also didn't define me.  So when people ask me about conquering that feeling of despair, I'm honest. 

​Feel it and acknowledge it, but figure out how to walk beside it.  Because the more you walk beside it, the more you'll realize it's actually slipping behind as you move forward. 

If you are in the beginning or messy middle with a vestibular something and questioning if healing is possible, I'm here to argue that it is. 

I can't tell you what that looks like for you, but I believe to my core that it is completely possible.  Healing involves the mind, body, soul and everything in between.  If you feel broken right now, it's time to look at this as an opportunity to put the pieces - everything that makes up you - where you want them.

Vestibular conditions are complicated and our treatments may vary, but when it comes to healing the heartbreak and pain, I think we get each other completely.  I think so many of us can relate to one another on that bumpy trail.  We are simultaneously walking trails that are intertwined and when our paths cross, it's a sigh of relief that someone else is also out on the trail.

My heart tells me that I must share so that others on the trail know they are not alone.  

My mind imagines a movement of all of us taking back our wellness.

And my soul knows that we are meant to thrive in this beautiful life- with a vestibular something and beyond.

Vestibular Warrior Resources // YouTube Videos [Vestibular Warrior] // Oils Routine for Vestibular Warriors // Contact Em

Migraine Vegan Diet // Plant-based diet: YouTube video}

Our food choices have the power to make huge shifts  in our bodies + our world.

Eliminating the junk, gives the body the opportunity to free itself of that weight, both emotionally and physically, and as a result, it can heal, flourish + thrive.
 
Food is freaking fantastic.  It fuels us and quite literally provides us with the sustenance of our being.  It is the nourishment and first line of defense against disease.  It plays a role in our physical and emotional quality of life and is essential to our wellness.  I am an inspired advocate of a plant-based diet; however, the basis for that is whole, from the earth, foods.  I will immediately credit a large part of my ability to heal with a vestibular condition to the way I was eating.  In my mind, there’s no doubt about  it.  I know in my soul that it pulled me up and out and gave me the energy to push forward.   

Admittedly, I didn’t have much of an appetite in the beginning.  When you’re world is off kilter and walking is a huge task, my appetite certainly wasn’t vibrant.  I drank a lot of smoothies (and continue to).  It was a way for me to simply pack in nutrition when functioning was a battle of its own.

I first embraced a plant-based diet in 2009, which changed my world, my perspective, how I felt about myself, and at the same time released me of so much negativity.  It certainly didn't happen overnight, but looking back over the last decade I can very easily point out that making that shift was
the catalyst for so much goodness.

I once received a comment how my plant-based diet didn’t stop me from getting hit with vestibular neuritis.  That hurt my heart (a lot), mostly because a vestibular disorder is damaging enough, and adding guilt on top of it was like a pile of bricks on my soul. 

But that’s correct, it didn’t stop it from happening, but man did it fuel me to stand back up, fight onward, and conquer.

Even though I was eating a plant-based diet when it all happened, I still needed to make tweaks.  It’s about really listening and paying attention to the feedback your body is giving you.  You may find that certain foods are triggers for symptoms (read: Migraine Vegan Diet) and therefore, they are not helping your body. 

That doesn’t mean you need to say goodbye to those foods forever.  As far as triggering foods, we are all different.  Many with vestibular migraines find they need to stay clear of coffee, chocolate, dairy, citrus, white sugar, gluten and processed foods.  To be honest, I believe eliminating dairy, white sugar and excess processed foods can help everyone elevate their wellness. 

Through working with a holistic doctor, I learned that sugar was feeding the problem inside me, so there was a period of time that I was more restrictive.  There was a solid six months that I avoided gluten, white sugar, processed foods, along with keeping within my plant-based framework. 

Was it hard at times?  You bet.  Was it worth it?  Absolutely. 

The food you eat will influence how you feel tomorrow and beyond, how you think, how you heal, and how you move forward.  When I was in the midst of it, I did not have the luxury to eat whatever my heart desired, but as I started to feel better, what I desired was simply nourishing food.  It might start out difficult, but then it becomes a habit, and then it is a part of you. 
​
Then, it becomes a part of your beautiful wellbeing. ​