When anxiety hits, you don’t always have time for a 20-minute meditation. In this episode of Tips & Tales with Tawnie The Neuro Mermaid, I share fast, science-backed tools to help you regulate your nervous system and get grounded in the moment — no matter where you are.

From humming to activate your vagus nerve, to using sour or spicy flavors for sensory distraction, to temperature shifts and the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method, you’ll walk away with an Anxiety SOS toolkit you can use instantly.

We’ll also talk about preventative daily practices for anxiety, how to communicate your needs to loved ones, and why these techniques work from a neuroplasticity and brain retraining perspective.

Perfect for anyone who is neurodivergent, on a healing journey, or interested in holistic and biohacking approaches to mental health.

🌊 Save this episode for your next high-tide moment — because even the strongest mermaids need a lifeboat sometimes.

#AnxietyRelief #Neuroplasticity #HolisticHealing #NeurodivergentTools #BiohackingMentalHealth #VagusNerve #GroundingTechniques #NervousSystemRegulation

🧠✨ Stroke Recovery • Brain Aneurysm Awareness • Survivor Stories

Shello, beautiful souls! 🧜‍♀️💖

Welcome to a special episode of Survivor Sunday—on a Saturday! Your hosts, Tawnie, a 2x brain aneurysm survivor and awareness ambassador, and fellow stroke survivor Maddie, dive into the power of resilience, reframing challenges, and showing up (even when your nerves say otherwise!).

This candid conversation covers everything from brain injury conference prep and stroke survivor tips to speaking engagements and self-empowerment. Tawnie shares her excitement—and nerves—about speaking at the UC Irvine Brain Injury Conference as the Neuro Mermaid, while Maddie recaps her experience performing in the powerful Stroke Monologues in Pittsburgh.

💬 Topics include:

• How to overcome anxiety before a speech

• What to wear to a brain injury or stroke awareness event

• Reframing fear as growth in your stroke recovery journey

• Celebrating your strokeversary/life-aversary

• Building community after a brain aneurysm or stroke

• Empowering yourself to travel and speak solo

Whether you’re healing from a stroke, living with a brain aneurysm, or supporting a loved one, this episode reminds you that you’re not alone—and you get to thrive after survival.

💌 Want to be featured on a future Survivor Sunday?
Send a DM to Tawnie or Maddie (even better set up a 3 way chat)—we welcome stroke warriors, caregivers, brain injury advocates, and healthcare providers to share their stories.

🔗 Follow for weekly survivor interviews, healing tips, and brain health awareness.

to connect with Maddi: https://linktr.ee/maddistrokeofluck?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAac_sOTerpt8KEJdBJBqdFU8l2NmhOkTJAmRcclPiXhuBzH5VD4NoEPOj4IysQ_aem_dihs3XFSV4kw3HkMetCH2g

connect with me: https:// linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

Al’oh, shallo — your Neuro Mermaid here, aka your Stroke Support Siren 💙✨
With my big speech at the Beyond the Brain Brain Injury Conference coming up, I’ve been reflecting on what it reallymeans to share your story as a brain injury or stroke survivor.

In this episode, I dive deep into: 🧠 The healing power of storytelling after brain trauma
💬 Why it’s okay if you stumble, forget, or cry while sharing your journey
🧅 My favorite metaphor: your story is like an onion (yes, Shrek-style)
🎤 How going live weekly with fellow survivors has helped us process, connect, and thrive
🫶 Why there’s no wrong way to tell your truth — and how sharing can literally save lives

Whether you’re neurodivergent, healing from a traumatic brain injury, navigating aphasia, or just trying to find your voice again — I see you. You are not alone. And you’re never “too messy” or “too late” to start telling your story.

💌 If you’ve ever said “I don’t think I could do that” — this one’s for you.
DM me your questions, share what part resonated most, or just say Shello mermaid 🧜‍♀️💕

resource and info Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com

Today we’re diving deep into something that every stroke survivor wonders at some point: Can I drive again? 

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—and it turns out, it’s not just about where you live but how much you self-advocate.

From Italy to Canada to the US, I share what I learned chatting with other stroke warriors across the globe 🌍

Spoiler: It’s often more about self-reporting and doctors' notes than strict DMV rules. I talk about my own experience—how my eye crossed in, rehab, and a simple note led me back to the driver’s seat (music and snacks included 🎶🍓).

Whether you’re 9 months or 9 years into your recovery, this episode is your reminder that where there’s a will, there’s a way. It may not look like it used to—but you CAN get there.

💬 Drop your questions or share your story with me. Let’s keep this healing convo going!

✨ Topics covered:

• Driving after brain injury or stroke

• Self-reporting laws in different countries

• Neuro-ophthalmologists & second opinions

• Mindset shifts and hope-filled healing

  
  

  https://

  linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

  
  

  or

  
  

  Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com

Every day this month, I’m sharing a bite-sized brain retraining moment—an organic question, convo, or curious thought that bubbled up in real life. Today’s episode dives into the beginning of my healing.

I share about my

-visual issues (my left eye was crossed in)

-light sensitivity

-sound sensitivity

-vertigo

-built up spinal cord fluid "hydrocephalus"

- my crooked smile or side mouth talking

-aphasia

- my speech was slower, my processing slower

💬 Got a topic or question floating in your mind?

Drop it in the comments or DM me—I’d love to share my personal tips & mermaid tales on your healing journey too. 🧠

Resources and links here Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com

or connect here https:// linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

Tawnie the Neuro Mermaid (on all socials)

Tawnietheneuromermaid@gmail.com

🎙️✨ Welcome to the NeuroMermaid Daily Drop-In! ✨🧜‍♀️

This isn’t your typical podcast—it’s a daily wave of reflection, brain health tips, and awareness moments that come up organically through life, community, and conversation. 💬💙

Today’s tip is all about starting the month with intention by reflecting on what worked last month—and stacking new habits with ones you already love. 🧠🌊

📝 For me, that means keeping my journaling routine going by pairing it with something I already do daily. (Shello, coffee + journaling vibes!) ☕📓

This series is unfiltered, unscripted, and designed to meet you where you are—because healing and habit building aren’t one-size-fits-all.

🌟 Have a question or topic you want me to dive into? Send it my way and I might feature it in tomorrow’s episode!
🔁 Come back daily for your quick brain boost and a moment of mindfulness.

connect with me https://linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

or more resources here on Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com

Navigating Emotions Post Stroke

Tracey & I speak on our life experiences as we navigate life dealing with the emotional trauma of living as stroke survivors...

-understanding post stroke depression

-recognizing the signs and symptoms

-effective coping strategies

Join us weekly as stroke survivors and awareness ambassadors, sharing candid conversations about the journey of recovery, resilience, and redefining life after stroke. From practical tips and personal stories to exploring healing strategies and building community, this podcast is a space of hope, support, and empowerment for survivors and their loved ones.

connect with us on IG:

https://ig.me/j/AbY_Xl-LXDd01rE7/

Tracey: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/bodytracefit?igsh=YzVkODRmOTdmMw==⁠⁠
⁠https://www.instagram.com/strokerecoverystrategist?igsh=YzVkODRmOTdmMw==⁠
Tawnie: https://www.instagram.com/theneuromermaid/
 ⁠https://www.instagram.com/tawnietheneuromermaid?igsh=YzVkODRmOTdmMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr⁠
https://www.instagram.com/bodytracefit?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

replay: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGtsSdkORUe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

3.2.25 Survivor Sunday live 
@maddistrokeofluck and @tawnietheneuromermaid interview @lonny.astrid post- brain surgery, and this is not her first one! Lonny is a mom and a stroke superhero, catch the replay to hear her story and amazing perspective on life.

Hope to see you guys too at fast fwd nyc on April 25, come and hang out with Maddi and Lonny ! or join in LA September 19th

want to share your story with us?

please DM us

https://

linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

or

https://linktr.ee/maddistrokeofluck?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaaUHgaYvDaz93hbv7_AlTerAzehvG-PlhQKufCiIGdSSEG3QgZLeI6nlk_aem_OOQS2GPsm9uw7gECkE5NIA

Everyone is so different and we all heal in our own ways, luckily as talking to other survivors I get asked questions and want to share my tips and resources.. looking forward to updating this and continuing to raising awareness

want to see the video from this join as a member for free to see more https://www.patreon.com/posts/how-i-swam-my-my-123357420?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

or here on YouTube https://youtu.be/FzmvSUywVRI

Shivika's story of how she turned the passing of her grandmother from a ruptured brain aneurysm into education & advocacy 
It's a 50% mortality rate flip of a coin that I luckily landed on the other side of so I'll continue to use my voice & platform to raise awareness 💚 
We met through @taaf_org please connect for more resources 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGj-ajQxVGj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

we should do a follow up right? on all the platforms? drop some questions

follow and connect with her https://www.instagram.com/its_just_shivs/

Two Young Stroke Survivors having an organic conversation LIVE so you can ask questions or drop it on the replay and we can respond next week.

Want a more private conversation join our zoom every Tuesday

Stroke survivors support Zoom

Time:

Every week on TUESDAYS, 10a PST / 12p CST / 1 EST

Join Zoom Meeting:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81950901318?pwd=qEasMn9mxyuGC252qk4KkhXaek8FWw.1

Meeting ID: 819 5090 1318

Passcode: 931208

We both have a mouth and we are here to share resources, our experiences, our support and community.

Surving & thriving with @maddistrokeofluck and @strokesupportsiren 2.16.2025 
Connecting from Spain to California we discuss marriage, love, friendship, travel and of course bring 2 young stroke survivors 
🫶please join us next Sunday and if you'd like to share your story please Dm us 

catch the

=https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGJZMc7yxGn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Interview with Wasif

Young Stroke Survivor's Shocking Journey | Brain Surgery & Recovery Story Part 1

At just 26, Wasif suffered an unexpected ischemic stroke, leading to emergency brain surgery and a long road to recovery. Misdiagnosed at first, his journey highlights the importance of advocating for proper medical care—like requesting a CT scan with contrast.

From waking up without part of his skull to regaining mobility, he shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned in stroke recovery. If you're a stroke survivor, brain aneurysm warrior, or neuro rehab fighter, this story is for you.

🔹 Keywords: Young stroke survivor, ischemic stroke recovery, brain surgery survivor, stroke awareness, CT scan with contrast, stroke symptoms, neurological rehabilitation, stroke recovery motivation.

if you prefer audio check out the podcast (apple & Spotify)

video on YouTube or Patreon

Want to share your story please contact me

Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com

https://linktr.ee/TawnieTheMermaid

to follow along with Wasif's journey

https://www.tiktok.com/@wasif_a1is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

https://www.instagram.com/wasifamin1?

#strokesurvivor #stroke #strokesupport #strokerehab #brainsurgerysurvivor #ctscan #neurology #neuroscience #survivor #survivors #recoveryjourney #youngstrokesurvivor #strokesupportsiren #neuromermaid

2.2.25 Survivor Sunday
@maddistrokeofluck and @tawnietheneuromermaid go live and discuss the changing nature of our relationships post-stroke and finding love after trauma!

And so cool to hear from you all about prioritizing self-love and personal development after stroke.

Looking forward to head out to LA tomorrow for the international Stroke conference.

Maddi will be doing a Cionic demo day and hosting neural sleeve info session at Urth Kaffe

on Feb 5th from 5-7 pm to talk about the neural sleeve which I wear for foot drop.

Comment or DM for details and would love to share with you about the neural sleeve! Onward! 💪
Also, don’t forget to register for my upcoming fast Fwd summit in NYC on April 25 or LA on September 19.

Link in bio to register or just drop a comment and I can send you the info. Looking forward to meeting you all and creating more community at the Summits. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/DFllcsxuOZw/

or over on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/live/IG28LOTMN1g?si=PrZxFCJ4XrQwX84w

1.19.25 Survivor Sunday
@maddistrokeofluck and @tawnietheneuromermaid dive deep in todays live to talk about what we think would have been doing with our lives if we never had strokes and how our lives are different/improved because of our life experiences.

If you want to be interviewed on a future episode,

please send us a message and we look forward to seeing you all again next time.

Onward! 💪

Want to watch the full video

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFBkwFqOGQP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

on the Tawnies Take on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/live/Cb3vfQHioVA?si=T-bLlQRzli1cBa7a

1.5.25 Survivor Sunday live
@maddistrokeofluck and @tawnietheneuromermaid go live for the first survivor Sunday of the new year! Also, please ignore the fact that the video randomly ended and kicked us off in the middle of a sentence. Not sure what happened there. Would love to hear what are all of your goals or resolutions for 2025! Onward! 💪
Ps I think one of your goals for this year should be to attend one of the @fastfwdsummits in 2025! April 25 in New York City and September 19 in Los Angeles. Drop a comment if you’d like to attend and I will send you the info!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEdeG56OjzA/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
#youngstrokesurvivors #aneurysm #avm #disability#survivingandthriving #fastfwd

Welcome to Tips & Tails with Tawnie the Neuromermaid! One of the most powerful things we can do is share our stories. Stories have the ability to inspire others, show what’s possible, raise awareness, and shift perspectives. Today, I’m thrilled to welcome a special guest Errol Reyes, a fellow brain aneurysm survivor whose journey of resilience and recovery is nothing short of extraordinary. After surviving a brain aneurysm and a 45-day coma in 2021, Errol shares how he overcame paralysis, rebuilt his strength, and rediscovered his love for learning—from tackling brain tasks and memory training to mastering new languages and how he's opened up a Non Profit Revive Solutions HR. Together, we discuss the power of neuroplasticity, the importance of perseverance, and the incredible support systems that help us heal. Whether you're early in recovery or supporting someone on their healing journey, this conversation is a reminder that recovery is possible and progress happens one step at a time. Let’s continue to raise awareness, share our stories, and inspire hope. Watch, comment, and share to spread the word!

if youd like to share how your healing and any resources or tips please contact me Www.tawnietheNeuroMermaid.com Please Contact Errol Reyes for all your HR needs www.revivesolutionshr.org

Being able to support other survivors the healing journey is why I advocate so loudly and believe is why I survived.

Please meet Lonnie

IG : lonnysbrainbumps_momlife is an incredible mom who's conquered her 3rd brain surgery & wanted to update everyone share her smile, a speed bump in the healing & the reminder 
✨LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE✨ 
We all heal in our own ways & I've found sharing & finding others has helped on the healing journey 
🥰if you'd like to connect or share your story please connect 🫶 my DMS are open 🧜🏼‍♀️

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDvT9ejymKv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

December is here are you feeling the holiday hustle & bustle? Check in and a refocus

- focusing on being mindful and on the present, not doing too much

- taking breaks and not feeling guilty

- saying no

Let's connect

Or if you want to share your story