You’ve probably noticed that during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, people have been responding differently to recovering from the virus. Ayurveda says that’s because we are all unique mind-body types (doshas) with totally different ways we respond and recovery to said intruder. To fully recover from a virus, we must consider balancing our doshas and following a long Covid recovery plan.

Consider taking this Mind-Body Type quiz to learn more about yourself and which Ayurvedic “Dosha” you are.

The symptoms that can remain after Covid are persistent cough, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, cognitive problems and general body pain. Depending on the duration of symptoms, post Covid or Long Covid can be divided into two stages — post acute Covid where symptoms extend beyond three weeks, but less than 12 weeks, and chronic Covid where symptoms extend beyond 12 weeks.

At present, scientific communities have put rigorous efforts to develop vaccines. But, there are only a few specific western medical treatments for chronic SARS‐CoV‐2. symptoms.

Ayurvedic research institutions, on the other hand, have published useful treatment plans for balancing your dosha and reducing long Covid symptoms that focus heavily on antiviral herbs and nutrition. Get the top ten antiviral spices so you can include them in your kitchen rotation.

A Step-by-Step Recovery Plan for Long Covid

I. Balance Your Dosha

VATA
Some people have a natural tendency toward anxiety during times of stress. These people are Vata types. Vatas are particularly susceptible to imbalance if their routines are disrupted. During your recovery period, make sure you establish a regular daily routine. For example, try to wake up at the same time every day, eat regular healthy meals, and go to bed by 10 p.m. Try adding a warm oil massage before bed. It will soothe your nerves and help you sleep better.

PITTA
Some people are solution-oriented and “go-getters.” These are Pitta types. When Pittas are balanced, you come up with solutions and rise to the occasion, but if out of balance and sick, you feel irritated and are super cranky. You may be feeling especially frustrated that you can’t engage with your regular physical and mental fervor. This is an especially important time for you to do less and reconnect with self-care. If you tend to short-change on sleep, be sure to get 7-8 hours of natural, restful sleep to stay balanced and healthy and keep your immune system strong by incorporating the top ten antiviral spices in your daily cooking.

KAPHA
Some people may be more relaxed about what is going on and have a tendency to withdraw during times of stress. These are Kapha types. When in balance, Kaphas do not feel the panic as some may be feeling, as they are quite grounded and calm at baseline. Pull up some online yoga classes or quick fitness apps.

II. Follow this Recovery Plan for 30 Days

This post post-COVID recovery plan is good for all three doshas. Follow this daily plan for as long as you continue to experience post-Covid symptoms.

1. Take 1 tsp of freshly grated ginger first thing in the morning with a spoonful of honey. If you have hypertension, use 1 tsp of ground coriander instead. Take for 30 days. (Start this protocol while you have covid or during recovery period and continue taking until symptoms subside. Don’t worry if you see changes in your sweat, urine or evacuation as these spices will absolutely be improving your detoxification pathways.)

2. Focus on anti-inflammatory foods that fortify your digestion like cooked vegetables, whole grains like basmati and quinoa, and include the top 10 antiviral spices in all of your cooking.

3. Improve your body's organs and tissues (which weaken with Covid) by adding up to 1 tbsp of ghee to each meal.

4. Prioritize rest. Pulse in relationship to nature’s rhythms of light and dark. Go to sleep as early as possible and wake up once the body is revitalized.

5. Oxygenate your tissues with gentle yoga. Twenty to thirty mins in the morning and 10 mins in the evening. A consistent yoga practice will prevent Vata from stiffening your body and oxygenates your tissues.

Sources & Credits

Credit to the Fundación de Salud Ayurveda Prema and the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India for originally publishing Ayurvedic post-COVID recommendations.

Spices and herbs: Potential antiviral preventives and immunity boosters during COVID-19