Healing After a TBI: How to Rewire Your Nervous System with Compassion
Concussions are no joke—and if you’ve experienced one, you already know that better than anyone. As someone who’s walked this road, I want to offer support, understanding, and a few tools that have helped me along the way.
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that disrupts your nervous system—the body’s command center. Simple tasks can suddenly feel overwhelming. Thinking clearly? Forget it. Lights and sounds? Too much. It can feel like something inside you is just off.
But here’s what’s going on underneath the surface—and why there’s real hope for recovery.
Think of your brain like a highway system. Messages (cars) zip from one area to another without effort—until a concussion hits. Suddenly, a major “sinkhole” forms. The highway is blocked, and your brain has to find detours. That’s what causes the fog, fatigue, mood swings, and sensory overload. And sometimes those detours become the new normal.
But healing is possible.
You can help your brain rebuild those roads. Here's how:
According to neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Willeumier, aerobic exercise is one of the best ways to increase oxygen flow to the brain. Even short bursts of physical effort followed by rest can improve cognitive function.
The key? Interval training tailored to your current capacity. That might mean 30 seconds of gentle bicycle movements on your back—or a light uphill walk.
🧠 Don’t compare your workout to what others are doing—compare it to what your body needs today.
After a TBI, your nervous system can stay “stuck” in fight-or-flight. Even safe situations can trigger panic, nausea, insomnia, or negative thoughts.
Here’s a calming practice: when those symptoms flare, try quietly saying to yourself:
“Thanks, brain. But I’m actually safe right now.”
It may sound simple, but consistently sending messages of safety can help reset your system.
Read more on nervous system safety signals →
One of the most powerful things you can do? Rest your brain. Not just sleep—but moments of intentional stillness.
Try this:
You can also try this 2-minute video exercise here →
Everyone’s concussion journey is different. Some days will feel better than others. But healing is possible—and you’re not “making it up.” Your brain is doing its best to protect you. Now it just needs help learning that it’s safe again.
If you're navigating the complexities of traumatic brain injury and need support, reach out to Siera at siera@counselingstgeorge.com. You don’t have to do this alone.
