Lifestyle Shifts That
Support Healing
Lifestyle Shifts That
Support Healing
When living with chronic illness.
When you're living with chronic dizziness, vertigo, or a vestibular disorder, even small lifestyle changes can have a big impact. At Balancing Act Rehabilitation, we believe in meeting your body where it’s at... and giving it what it needs to heal.
Below are five foundational lifestyle shifts that we often recommend to our patients. These strategies are designed to support both your brain and body on your healing journey.
1. Move Your Body (Even a Little Bit Can Help)
Movement is essential for helping your brain recalibrate and adapt. While it may feel tempting to rest or avoid any movement that provokes symptoms, too much inactivity can actually prolong symptoms.
- Movement helps your brain recalibrate-avoiding it may worsen dizziness
- Engage in gentle movement each day-even short walks are a great place to start
- Work with your vestibular therapist to determine safe, individualized movement strategies
Remember: the goal is progress, not perfection. Gentle, consistent movement is key.
2. Support Your Nervous System
Increased stress and anxiety often go hand-in-hand with dizziness. The more you can regulate your thoughts and calm your nervous system, the easier it becomes to manage symptoms.
- Mind-body practices like breathwork and grounding techniques can be powerful
- Try box breathing or the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method during flares or anxious moments
- Focus on shifting your body into a state of calm and safety
You’re not imagining the dizzy-anxious-dizzy cycle, but you'll have to work to disrupt it.
3. Routine & Structure
Creating predictable rhythms in your day can provide much-needed stability to your nervous system and vestibular system.
- Anchor your day with routines that feel grounding and good to you (morning rituals, calming evenings)
- Break big tasks into small steps and give yourself permission to rest
- Avoid symptom accumulation by pacing your activities
- Give yourself permission to say “no” when you need to... or simply want to
Structure isn’t about rigidity-it’s about creating a rhythm that works for you.
4. Stay Hydrated & Nourished
Proper hydration and nutrition support brain function, reduce fatigue, and help stabilize blood sugar-all necessary for proper symptom management.
- Drink water regularly throughout the day
- Don’t skip meals-keep your blood sugar steady
- Talk to your provider about nutraceuticals or supplements (like magnesium, B2, CoQ10)
- Limit alcohol
Think of food and hydration as tools that support your brain’s healing environment.
5. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is where your brain and body reset-poor sleep can worsen symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and anxiety.
- Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time, even on weekends
- Avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals in the 1-2 hours before bed
- Create a peaceful, stress-free space to wind down at night
Quality sleep supports everything from balance to emotional regulation.
You're Not Alone
If you’re not sure where to start or you’re feeling overwhelmed by your symptoms, we’re here for you. Book your FREE 10-minute consult here and let us know how dizziness is affecting your life, so we can help you find your next step forward.
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Looking for personalized support in managing your dizziness? Our vestibular therapists are here to help. Learn more about our virtual services and self-help courses at www.balancingactrehab.com or email us at info@balancingactrehab.com.
Disclaimer: This content on this website is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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