After a concussion or brain injury, the function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) can be commonly disrupted. This can cause a dysregulation between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system - leading to increased symptoms.

This week on the podcast, Natasha Wilch is back to explain the ins and outs of the ANS as it relates to brain injury. She will also explain dysautonomia and POTS, and share some practical tools to improve autonomic function.

If you've ever been overwhelmed or overstimulated with brain injury symptoms, you are not alone. Today, Natasha Wilch is here to share some ways to help us calm down symptoms. We discuss some simple strategies along with encouragement for survivors.

The journey of living with brain injury comes with ups and downs. How do we combat fear? What is the difference between a symptom flare and a re-injury?

Today, you will hear from two guests:

- Survivor Perspective: Ali Rheaume has been living with a TBI for 5 years, and just sustained a re-injury concussion a few months ago. She shares some of her journey and tips for dealing with re-injuries, along with encouragement on how to combat fear.

- Professional Perspective: Natasha Wilch is here to share some of the medical reasons that survivors might fall or hit their heads more often, advice for how to prevent re-injuries, the difference between a new injury and a flare-up, and more.

Setbacks might happen, but we can get through them. I hope this episode provides some encouragement and hope that healing is possible. You are not alone! -Cristabelle

This week we explore the benefits of music therapy and physical therapy in relation to brain injury - along with some great information about Concussion Compass (online membership for post concussion syndrome) and Camp Cranium (summer camp for kids with brain injury).