10 Lessons Learned while Recovering from Covid

After attending a family wedding in July, I came down with Covid which was quite a humbling and powerful experience. I have always had a sense of respect for the virus and felt very fortunate to not have contracted it, until I did.

I like to think of myself as healthy while practicing good nutrition as well as a healthy lifestyle. However, the virus definitely hit me hard. Mainly, I had heavy fatigue where I slept and stayed in bed for almost 5 days with no appetite and a general feeling of malaise. After about 10 days, I am thankfully on the mend and wanted to share some lessons learned during this period of time that I hope you find to be useful, if needed…

  1. The practice of self-care, self-compassion and patience are essential for recovery. Take your time and listen to the body.
  2. The practice of mindfulness and checking in with myself with some deep diaphragmatic breathing, meditation and prayer helped me to stay in the moment and believe that things would get better.
  3. Focusing on NOURISHING the body with immune-boosting soups and anti-inflammatory teas and coconut water for hydration in the beginning was key until my appetite returned.
  4. Rest, sleep and napping was vital to helping my body heal and feel stronger.
  5. Focusing on gut health through healthy eating, probiotic rich foods and supplements helped to support my immune system and improve energy.
  6. Accepting help from others — whether it was a soup drop off, bone broth, subscribing to THE NEW YORKER HUMOUR DAILY EDITION or the many texts and phone calls I received — was uplifting and a great distraction.
  7. Taking a bath in Epsom salts and Magnesium flakes was beneficial to relieve muscle aches and provide relaxation.
  8. Eating some toast, sourdough bread with sliced avocado or nut butter and honey or a nutrient dense smoothie were some great ways to start the day when my appetite was low.
  9. Starting back slowly and gradually with some short yoga poses, nature walks, a walk around the block with a friend or our family dog Charlie eased me back onto my feet.
  10. Connecting with family, friends, community and other social connection were an integral pillar of support and comfort.

As we continue to go thru these challenging times, I want to thank each and every one of you for your kindness and compassion and wish you all continued health!

Marsha Fenwick, C.N.P.  R.R.T.

Marsha is not your typical nutritionist. She began her career 20 years ago as a Registered Respiratory Therapist. Later, she earned her certifications as a Registered Nutritional Consultant Practitioner, Certified Nutritional Practitioner, and Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner. Marsha is also a Certified Cancer Coach. Her clinical practice specializes in: sustainable healthy weight loss, digestive health, women's hormones, diabetes, heart health, and cancer prevention and recovery. For more information and to book a FREE 15 minute consultation go to www.marshafenwicknutrition.com

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