In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Jackie Baxter, a breathing instructor and coach, about her journey through long COVID and the impact it had on her mental health. Jackie shares her experiences of being an active individual before falling ill, the challenges of recovery, and the importance of understanding the mental health aspects of chronic illness. The conversation delves into the struggles of navigating life with long COVID, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the strategies Jackie used to find balance and hope in her recovery journey. In this conversation, Jackie shares her personal journey with long COVID, focusing on the challenges of exercise intolerance and the importance of understanding one's body and breath. She discusses the significance of recognizing different states of the nervous system and how this awareness can guide appropriate movement and rest. Jackie highlights the transformative effects of cold water swimming and the importance of community support in recovery, emphasizing that recovery is a multifaceted process that requires patience and self-compassion. In this conversation, Jackie shares her journey with long COVID, emphasizing the importance of social connections, validation in healthcare, and the role of mindset in recovery. She discusses the benefits of cold water therapy and breathwork as tools for healing and wellness, highlighting the need for understanding and support in the recovery process. #Mentalhealth #longCOVID #validation #energymanagement #breathwork #socialconnections #mindset #recovery #nevoussystem #community