This month, as we honor Stroke Awareness Month, I wanted to share a personal story that I hope helps someone else. A few months ago, I experienced a stroke. It was sudden, frightening, and completely threw me off my rhythm—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
Like so many women in high-stress, high-performance roles—running businesses, managing staff, making daily decisions—I felt powerless. My instinct was to rush back to work, to prove that I was okay. But recovery doesn’t work like that.
And healing doesn’t happen on a deadline.
So here’s what I’ve learned—and what I hope other women take to heart if they find themselves in a similar situation:
1. Give Yourself Time
A health crisis is traumatic. Even if it feels “minor,” it’s your body screaming for attention. Take time to really rest. Things may not look like they did before—but slow, steady progress is progress. Let your body—and your nervous system—catch up.
2. Heal with Food and Movement
I committed to eating better and started gardening—growing my own herbs and vegetables has become part of my healing process. I also eased back into physical activity, with the help of my Physical Therapist who ensured that walking on my street was included. Some days, that was all I could manage. But now, I walk through the neighborhood and even take a Pilates class. Recovery builds with consistency, not speed.
3. Lean Into Your Circle
Support is everything. Surround yourself with people who love and nurture you. Let them help. It’s not weakness—it’s strength. Community is medicine.
If you’re feeling burned out, take a moment. Listen to your body. And if you’ve already had a wake-up call like I did, I hope my experience reminds you that you’re not alone—and that healing is possible, one gentle step at a time.
xoxo
Nicole
