experiences

Age 48. 

  I had pre-existing health conditions: fibromyalgia and IBS.

After Covid I've had new levels of fatigue and muscle/nerve pain, headaches, tinnitus, lack of concentration, breathing issues, palpitations, new gastro-intestinal issues and chest pain.  

 The impact Covid had 

 I was barely able to leave the house and have not been able to work. I was like this for 6 months. I struggle concentrating and have overwhelming fatigue.   

Most beneficial part of the programme

I learnt how to ‘send messages to myself’ to help me slow down. The words Karen uses in the meditation stayed with me and helped me with coping strategies and to manage my symptoms better. 

The digestive meditation Karen did helped to clear the nausea I woke up with every morning. 

 How Life is Now

 I’ve got a sense of control. I am able to use the meditations when I feel I am not coping. It’s helped me manage myself by catching myself before I do too much. I am able to pull myself back and not overdo anything. 

What surprised you about the programme?

Praising my body instead of cursing it.  Having peer support. 

Best piece of advice?

 “Convalescence is a full-time job!” 

     Age 48. 

  I had various pre-existing health conditions:   hypermobility spectrum disorder, ADHD, mild asthma, ectopic heartbeats, thyroidectomy due to previous thyroid disease.

My main covid symptoms were sore throat and throat swelling, cough, significant breathing difficulties unlike my usual asthma and not relieved by inhalers, hoarse voice, muscle weakness, tinnitus, some fatigue, and dry, sore bloodshot eyes, and in the early weeks I also had high blood pressure and tachycardia. I had one visit to A&E three weeks after starting with symptoms. 

 The impact Covid had 

Covid had a huge impact on my life. My lung function was so affected I struggled to manage a ten minute walk at a very slow pace. I was so out of breath I had to lie down after going upstairs. I have struggled to do basic tasks. The muscle weakness and breathing problems were frightening, took all my attention, and affected my sleep. I continued working part-time from home as I am self-employed, but had to slow down and was not able to do everything I normally do. I could do some written work, but was unable to talk much due to the breathing problems. Five months after getting ill was a turning point when I felt significant improvement. .  

Most beneficial part of the programme

Breathing improvements were measurable by comparing my peak flow readings before and after each meditation. I also had significant stress reduction and better sleep. I have felt supported by taking part and it has helped me to feel more positive and empowered.

 How Life is Now

As my breathing has improved, my energy and concentration have also improved. I sleep better. I have learned to be more relaxed and waste less energy. My peak flow measurements that are used to monitor my asthma started to consistently improve from four months after getting ill, around the time I started doing the meditations. I had a significant general improvement around five months. I have felt most well in the weeks when I have consistently practised the meditations every day. I am getting more work done, and am able to use my voice for longer before it gets fatigued. I feel more confident about being able to cope.

What didn't you expect (or what surprised you) about the programme?

I was amazed at the noticeable improvements in my breathing after each meditation. I did not expect to get such dramatic improvements. I have renewed confidence that I have the tools to recover fully.

What surprised you about the programme?

I was amazed at the noticeable improvements in my breathing after each meditation. I did not expect to get such dramatic improvements. I have renewed confidence that I have the tools to recover fully. 

Best piece of advice?

Convalescence is the most important thing. Rest and don't push yourself. Even on good days, pace yourself. Get peer support through support groups. It really helps to not be going through it alone.