Regaining Mental Focus After COVID

Always remember, your focus determines your reality.

~George Lucas

The positive COVID test result was devastating and I certainly shed a few tears. Like many I lost my sense of taste and smell. I quickly learned that not much support was provided for survivors  or “long haulers.” Those of us still living with post COVID symptoms. For me the fuzzy brain had to go. I realize the virus is still being studied. What is known is that

the virus does impact the brain. Brain fog is real.

Dr. Andrew E. Budson, shares some insight on why brain fog, long haulers can have other lingering symptoms including fatigue, body aches, inability to exercise, headache, and difficulty sleeping. Some of these problems may be due to permanent damage to their lungs, heart, kidneys, or other organs. Damage to these organs — or even j

ust the symptoms by themselves — can impair thinking and memory and cause brain fog. For example, how can you think clearly if you’re feeling fatigued and your body is aching? How can you concentrate if you were up half the night and awoke with a headache? This sounds so intense and even scary but confronting the truth fuels action.

Reclaim your brain clear the fog

Self-advocacy, self-love, and educating ourselves is the foundation for recovering and supporting the brain and bodies ability to heal and recover. No real magic bullet. These handy tips are good for everyone focused on brain clarity.

• exercise a minimum of 30 minutes per day
• Mediterranean based meals
• Avoid alcohol and drugs
• Get plenty of sleep
• Social Activities
• Practice mindfulness or listen to music
• Establish brain breaks
• Hydrate
• Practice breathing techniques
• Work in chucks (30 minute intervals and 5 minute brea)
• Take time to celebrate ( release happy hormones)
• Extend grace to yourself
• Stay positive
• Talk it out if your overwhelmed
• Connect with your physician often
• Eliminate distractions