Concussion Coach Bethany Lewis loves sharing uplifting and helpful information for those struggling with Post Concussion Syndrome. Her goal is to increase awareness of concussions and the impact they can have on a person’s life, and to bring hope to people who have suffered a concussion and those who love them. sharing stories and knowledge about concussions will bring important light and understanding to this misunderstood and often-invisible injury. This podcast was previously called Life Inspired Coach.
Today, I am absolutely thrilled to welcome the wonderful Emily Waechtler to the podcast! Emily is a small business owner, a devoted wife of almost 27 years, and a mother to two daughters in their early twenties. She and her family live on the beautiful central coast of California, where they cherish their time together at the beach. Emily is a true ray of sunshine, and I’m so excited for you to hear her story, her hard-earned wisdom, and her incredibly positive perspective on navigating the concussion recovery journey.
Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode, Emily shares her experience of sustaining a concussion from a surfing accident nearly a year and a half ago. She opens up about the initial confusion surrounding her injury, the frustration of not getting clear answers from the medical system, and the daunting reality of a recovery that lasted far longer than the ”couple of weeks” she was initially told to expect.
Emily talks about the wide range of symptoms she faced, from physical challenges like dizziness and jaw pain to the overwhelming emotional and mental fatigue. She discusses the importance of finding the right help, which for her so far has included a chiropractor trained in cranial work, a physical therapist, and coaching with Bethany, and how she learned that recovery often takes a village of providers.
Most importantly, Emily shares how she found hope and practical strategies through the Concussion Coach Podcast and one-on-one coaching. She dives deep into the lessons she's learned about pacing, the critical balance between rest and activity (like exercise and socializing), and the power of self-compassion. Emily’s faith and her ability to find grace for herself through understanding her nervous system are central themes. This conversation is a beautiful, honest look at ”in-process” healing and a powerful reminder that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Cognitive FX: Emily mentioned an article from Cognitive FX that her friend sent her immediately after the injury. It was an early resource that listed things not to do after a concussion. www.cognitivefxusa.com
The ”Gage” or ”Zone” System: Emily and Bethany discuss the immense value of having a common language (like using colors: green, yellow, red) to communicate energy levels and symptom triggers with loved ones. This system helps family and friends understand when to support you in resting or leaving a situation before a setback occurs. The ”gage system” discussed in this episode was originally introduced in a previous podcast episode. Link to the ”Gage System” Episode: [CLICK HERE]
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Emily highlights how incorporating sub-threshold, high-intensity interval training became a game-changer in her recovery, emphasizing that exercise is a crucial form of medicine for the brain.
Connect with Emily Waechtler:
Email: emily.bluecorduroy@gmail.com
Website/Business: bluecorduroy.com (Check out her adorable sun hats!)
Instagram: @emily_bluecorduroy (She loves connecting with people via DM!)
Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:
Free Guide: ”5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion” – Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com
Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HEREÂ