Something that has inspired me since being diagnosed with a vestibular disorder is seeing others “defeating their dizziness” by not giving up on the things they loved pre-diagnosis. I initially had a hard time with any hobby or activity that I used to love for fear of falling or feeling embarrassed that I looked drunk. However, a lot of time and healing has passed, and along with that, has come the confidence to get myself out of my dizzy comfort zone.
While most of us are experiencing what it’s like to live a “new normal,” it’s important to continue to “Preserve Through The Dizziness And Do What You Love.” I promise that will make you feel more normal than sitting on the couch being fearful of doing your favorite activity.
Yoga
I enjoyed yoga before I was diagnosed but afterward was terrified to do anything that didn’t have me sitting upright. I was already dizzy, so why make it worse? It wasn’t until my neurologist, Dr. Beh at UTSW in Dallas, TX, told me that I needed to do exercises that I loved previously because it actually helps you re-train your brain. He suggested I go to dance classes or yoga. (It also has many benefits for vestibular migraines, too).
It’s essential that you push yourself while staying within your limits. You see, I would love to go to a dance class, but I’m not 100% ready for that yet and decided to sign up and start practicing yoga. I’m so proud of myself that I can keep up with the class now regarding poses and the flow. However, if I get dizzy, it’s perfectly okay. I know my limits and if I need to rest or sit down in child’s pose for a moment, I can. Yoga is such an inviting community, and they strongly advise that you listen to your body.
Outdoor Activities
Exercising outdoors was another thing I struggled with at first. You see, I love being outside whether it’s working out, running, or hiking. I get so stir crazy on a treadmill or stair master that I would rather take the activity outside. However, when I was first diagnosed with vestibular migraines, the light sensitivity was too much for me to bear. It wasn’t until I bought some polarized glasses that I was able to get outside again. After that, I slowly started doing the things I loved.
My husband and I moved to Denver recently, and the first thing I wanted to do was go hiking. The elevation already has an effect on me due to Denver being the “Mile High City,” so imagine what hiking up a mountain does to you? But I persevered.
We climbed a trail in Golden, CO, for the first time and while it was difficult, I did it.. Once again it just comes down to knowing your limits. Did I have to stop several times compared to when I was healthy? Yes. But you know what? It felt amazing to get to the top of the mountain, and I’ve done several trails since that day. Just know your body and be prepared. I know that if a trail might be 60 minutes long, it may take me 90 minutes and I will need lots of water for the journey.
Travel
I think we can all agree that flying with a vestibular disorder is awful, but it’s something we all have to do if we want to go experience the world. (The Dizzy Cook, has great advice on what you can do to prepare for travel ahead of time.)
That said, go on the adventures to different places with your friends and family. Just communicate with them ahead of time if you need breaks throughout the day. There have been plenty of times where I needed to rest in between activities to have the strength to continue to do all the fun sight-seeing things. It’s worth it in the end!
White Water Rafting
For my 29th birthday this year I wanted to do something adventurous. I used to go white water rafting all the time growing up in Idaho and hadn’t since starting my career in Dallas, TX. After moving to Denver, I knew exactly what I wanted to do – go white water rafting. But once again, I know that there can be a lot of spinning, drops and other unknowns that could make me dizzy.
However, my desire to feel “normal” is what pushed me through to officially sign-up for a trip. Of course, I was nervous about how I would feel, but I wanted to do it. It ended up being very pleasant. There was even a time where our guide spun our raft, and it really didn’t make me feel dizzier than normal. Honestly, the experience made me feel like I’m ready to try and go do other adrenaline inspired activities.
Remember, this is me knowing my body. It all comes down to you knowing your limits and what you can handle, but I do believe that pushing myself out of my comfort zone has been rewarding for me.
Defeat Dizziness – Don’t Miss Out On Life
Overall, I understand that feeling dizzy can make you want to curl up in a ball and not leave your house. I get it. I was there at one point. It just hit me one day that I could either be a recluse and never go outside, or I could defeat dizziness and continue to try and live my life as normal as possible.
Truthfully, I think that the more I get out and do what I loved prior, is what is making me feel more like myself. I will always have to carry around this dizziness, but the more I experience in my life, the more adjusted I become to this new normal. If I can do it, you can, too!
Perseverance is a quality anyone can have.
#BalanceAwarenessWeek2018
