S3E2: Updates from Eryn: Where She's Been and How She's Doing

SummaryDid you know there are more than 5.3 million individuals in the U.S who are living with a permanent brain injury-related disability? That's 1 in every 60 people. In today's episode, Eryn updates everyone on where she has been and how she has been doing over the past few years. She shares with us her struggle with depression, the impact of Covid-19 on her symptoms, and her journey finding peace and serenity post-brain trauma. Further on, we have Alison who shares her experiences with anxiety, finding tranquility in nature, and the role of faith in guiding her journey. Both Eryn and Alison discuss their experiences with nature, spirituality, and the serendipitous connection that brought them together. They also share their challenges with healthcare, the importance of gratitude, and the need for self-advocacy in their recovery journeys.Keywordsbrain injury, depression, COVID-19, serenity, peace, nature, anxiety, coping, faith, nature, spirituality, serendipity, healthcare challenges, gratitude, self-advocacy, recovery journeyTakeawaysLiving with a brain injury involves ongoing challenges and adjustments, including managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.The impact of COVID-19 on brain injury symptoms can be significant, leading to a resurgence of cognitive and physical challenges.Finding serenity and peace after a brain injury often involves exploring new hobbies and activities, such as spending time in nature and engaging in relaxing experiences.The role of faith and spirituality can play a significant part in guiding the journey of recovery and adaptation after a brain injury. Nature serves as a source of peace and spiritual connection for Eryn and Alison.The serendipitous connection between Eryn and Alison has been a significant support in their recovery journeys.Challenges with the healthcare system have led Eryn and Alison to prioritize self-advocacy and explore alternative approaches to healing.Gratitude plays a crucial role in finding happiness and appreciation for the simpler things in life.Sound Bites"I'm more at peace and find the tranquility and the serenity that I need, that I crave, like in nature, outside...""Nature's more like my religion, I would say, than going to church or doing something more formal.""It was God, the universe, whatever you want to believe, higher power, um, agnostic. It was nothing. It was just us finding each other.""Gratitude is the key to happiness."Chapters00:00Finding Serenity and Peace After a Brain Injury26:23Nature's Spiritual Connection30:00Serendipitous Connections and Support40:03Navigating Healthcare ChallengesReach out to:Eryn on IG @eryn_makingheadwaypodcastAlison on IG @alison_maknigheadwayodcastMHP on IG @makingheadwaypodcast Go to our website www.makingheadwaypodcast.com for full show notes and resourcesSupport us at:PatreonDonate section on our website.  49:48The Power of Gratitude and Self-Advocacy