So, today a thing happened. Kevin and I were running an errand when I started feeling “off.” I didn’t necessarily feel faint, just kind of like my body was going every which away on the inside. I was seeing halos - those of you with dysautonomia probably know what I’m talking about there - but other than that not much of the usual pre-syncope stuff. One thing I did know, I needed water.. IMMEDIATELY. So we went straight to the water aisle because I had somehow left my ever present Yeti at home. After a few sips I noticed my heart racing, ears ringing, and the slightest bit of nausea setting in. Still, I was calm, not sure I was going to faint and at the same time knowing something was going on. I tuned in a little closer. I was in overdrive. I had an instant flash of what I’d eaten that morning and the knowing I needed to get to the ground. I wasn’t panicked or scared. I was aware that I may not be able to stop the unconsciousness from sweeping my body this time. It was close. No fear. I simply took off my coat and laid down right there in the middle of Trader Joe’s, legs in the air. (As a side note, if you’re ever going to get sick in public that’s the place to be. Those people are saints.) Kevin holding my feet. People offering assistance. I just laid there, breathing, feeling my heart, allowing whatever was going to happen to happen. Surrender. Somehow I didn’t actually go unconscious and my head wasn’t filled with thoughts of fear and judgment. I knew this experience was just a moment in time. I had some insight as to what caused it, which felt empowering for future reference, and I felt 100% supported by my man, my community, and my body.

Before long I felt stable enough to get up and about again. So, we finished the little shopping we had left and home we went. My body had been through a lot and it was time for recovery mode! Through the years I’ve learned how to do that like a goddess and whether you have dysautonomia or not, I’m willing to bet you’ll have some recovering to do sometime too. So, I’m sharing my top tips for recovering from an episode.. or a rough day.. because let’s face it those are pretty shitty too. Obviously I’m not a doctor, so know this is just what works for me and if you’re into experimenting maybe you can give it a try too.

Up the salt. Up the fluids. Even on good days I often feel like no matter how much water I drink it’s not enough. Throw in an episode and I can count on needing more. Our bodies go through a lot keeping us awake when our systems are basically shorting out, going haywire. The visual I get is a surfer trying to ride a wave in the middle of a hurricane. For instance, today when I sat up after several minutes of laying down, my clothes were soaked and I still left behind a huge puddle of sweat on the floor.. much more than I’d make during a hot yoga class or a run. Clearly my body was working hard. So, between losing excess fluids and getting a major physical workout we need to replenish ourselves. Good quality salt helps with electrolyte balance and water retention while the water rehydrates our cells. Even if you don’t need as much salt as me, it helps carry the good stuff to our cells, so make sure you’re getting enough to balance your fluid intake. I usually add an extra electrolyte drink too (I like Ultima and Vitamin Water Zero). Another good option, bone broth.
Rest. After all that work our bodies are exhausted, so kick back and relax. Anything from a short nap to several hours works great since the vagus nerve resets during sleep. Just allow yourself to rest for as long as you need. No alarm clocks if you can swing it! If you’re too amped up to actually sleep (I’ve never known anybody to say this, but hey, I guess anything can happen) at least lay down for a bit. You can enjoy a movie.. do some reading.. just get in the prone position to take some of the strain off the autonomic nervous system. Another good option is to take a warm (not hot) bath. I like to use mineral salts and balancing essential oils like copaiba and cypress or bergamot to support the autonomic nervous system.
Eat good food. While I stay mindful of my dietary restrictions I also give myself room to truly nurture myself after an episode, whatever that looks like. Today I was craving two things. First, a bread bowl filled with tomato soup. Second, a buffalo chicken sandwich from a chain I used to eat at years ago. You know the kind - the bread kind of gets soggy with the chicken juices and it’s oh so yummy. My cravings are always funny to me and these were no different. I rarely eat grains or nightshades and am gluten free, so I’d have to improvise. After tuning in a little deeper I realized what I really wanted was soggy bread with pastured meat and yummy sauce. Thank goodness for Kevin because when we got home he made me the most delicious saucy chorizo concoction and served it up with some just-toasted-enough gluten free bread for dipping. I was in heaven and the carbs helped me with that nap I mentioned above. Come to think of it, I generally want something at least slightly carb-y after an episode. I’m sure there’s science behind that!
Be gentle with yourself. This is my final tip and very important for your physical, spiritual, and emotional recovery. Be aware that your body is strong and longs to create health and balance. Recognize that one episode is just that - one episode. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at the beginning of a year long flare or that you won’t be able to make those dinner plans you made with friends for the weekend. Ask your body what it needs and listen. You will recover. You will bounce back. Stay present. Learn. Take care of yourself. Be well.

Do you have any tips to share? If so, I’d love to hear! Join the conversation and take care!