Ayurvedic COVID After Care
As we know, the pandemic is still among us and is likely to be a persistent issue. We have slowly managed to come to terms with this however there has since been increasing concern towards the after- effects of COVID-19 and how we might be able to alleviate this stress.
Studies show that the effects of COVID, even after we seem to have healed, hold long term issues such as fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating and joint or muscle pains. This issue, often termed Post-COVID-19 syndrome, involves new, returning or ongoing symptoms that may present themselves up to a year after catching. Some have even identified that symptoms begin to show again after returning to strenuous exercise too soon. These issues are thought to be related to the inflammation of internal organs and problems with the immune system.
Slowly bringing ourselves back into an Ayurvedic state of balance and building our routine once again can be crucial in our
long term recovery of the virus, alongside the importance of recognising the gentle recovery that our body needs from such
an attack.
Here are a few tips for your gentle post-COVID self care:
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For all Doshas, exercise is to be light for some time after symptoms reside (Walking or Yoga will be most beneficial). It’s a good idea to flow back into your normal exercise routine after a month or so from your negative test but to stay aware of how your body and mind is feeling. Adjust your routine to what is best for your long term recovery, even if this may be reducing your usual exercise for more than a month.
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Make yourself warm, spicy cinnamon milk drinks at night and detoxifying lemon drinks during the day to aid your body in detoxification, strengthening immunity and giving your body the deep rest it needs to repair yourself at night.
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Make sure to go to bed before 10pm and rise ideally before 6am. At least 8 hours sleep will give your body enough time to continue healing overnight.
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Give yourself some love with a warm oil self massage to aid in lymphatic drainage and detoxification (Abhyanga).
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Make warm, easily digestible and nutritious meals throughout the day to keep your digestive fire strong. Kitchari and Porridge are great meals to ensure that your body isn't using too much energy in digestion and more on repairing your tissues (Dhatus).
We asked Dr Ajit what he would recommend for further support of individual/family immunity and repair. Here are his suggestions:
For Adults:
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G-Defence (Helps with fatigue and tiredness from low immunity)
For Children:
For Everyone:
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Winter Spice Mix ( Add this to any dish that you see fits for detoxification and absorption of nutrients )
Remember to be kind to yourself.
We hope that you and your family stay safe and full of life.