Experiencing persistent fatigue, digestive issues, and brain fog after COVID? I'm testing the Rest and Restore Protocol (RRP) for Long COVID symptoms - tracking energy, digestion, and overall recovery over 8 weeks.

I managed to contract COVID (for the fourth or fifth time!) a few weeks ago. Of course, I'm grateful that this isn't the death sentence it used to be, but the sore throat, constant coughing and sneezing, sinus congestion, and lethargy were uncomfortable. Those symptoms resolved within about ten days, but then I noticed other, unfamiliar sensations.

I suddenly began having sharp abdominal pain, and elimination issues. An unpleasant lingering metallic taste also appeared. A friend suggested anti-inflammatories, which helped with the pain, but the tiredness, unpredictable digestion, and metallic taste were still present.

I hit the internet, and was really surprised to discover that gastrointestinal (GI) issues are a known side effect of COVID.

Seated young adult black male holding gut and grimacing in pain as a potential example of long COVID.

The Long Covid Reality

Long COVID affects an estimated 6.9% of US adults (or about 17.8 million people). What's particularly challenging is how it can disrupt multiple body systems simultaneously: respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and yes, digestive.

The gut-brain connection means that when one system is disrupted, others often follow. Studies show that 10-25% of covid patients still have GI symptoms six months later, and there’s a 36% higher risk of developing long-term GI disorders after infection.

I hadn’t connected the dots at first. I just assumed these symptoms were random, until my research proved otherwise.

Enter the Rest and Restore Protocol

So I had an idea. The Rest and Restore Protocol™ (RRP) uses specific sound frequencies embedded in music to help support the autonomic nervous system; essentially, the part of your body that automatically regulates breathing, digestion, and heart rate. The idea is to help your body remember how to harmoniously coordinate these systems.

Given that long covid often disrupts multiple interconnected systems, a therapy that supports the body's natural ability to communicate and coordinate could be helpful.

My Self-Experiment

I decided to try listening to 10 minutes of the RRP every other day, giving myself time to integrate the effects between sessions. I'm tracking three main areas: energy levels, that persistent metallic taste, and digestive regularity (which has been, well, unpredictable).

After about a week, I’m already noticing a real shift in my energy. That heavy, molasses-like fatigue that made even simple tasks feel overwhelming? It’s gone. The metallic taste is still there, but some days it’s less noticeable. My digestion is still erratic, but I’m curious if the pattern is starting to change

What’s most surprising is how different this energy boost feels. It’s not just “feeling better.” I’m actually feeling more positive, less weighed down, and more present than I was even before I got sick. It’s as if my system is finally finding its natural rhythm again.

The Bigger Picture

What intrigues me about trying RRP for Long COVID recovery is its gentle, whole body approach. Instead of targeting individual symptoms, it works with the body's innate wisdom to restore natural rhythms. Early research is promising: pilot studies show significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, and trauma symptoms, and anecdotal and case studies are starting to note consistent improvements in digestive problems.

This aligns with what we’re learning about Long COVID. It's not just about lingering virus particles, but about how the infection disrupts the body's complex feedback systems. If COVID scrambles our internal communication networks, then a therapy designed to restore natural coordination makes intuitive sense.

Curly-haired woman seated cross-legged on wooden pier gazing out over ocean.

Closing Thoughts

I'm committed to continuing this experiment over the next two months, tracking not just my symptoms but my overall sense of well-being. While this is just one person's experience, this intersection of Long COVID's multi-system disruption and RRP's whole-body approach feels worth exploring. I'll be sharing updates on my progress in a follow-up post, noting both improvements and ongoing challenges.

Of course, Long COVID affects people differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. I should also mention that while RRP is gentle for many people, some find it challenging. That’s why starting slowly and listening to your body is so important.

As always, this is my personal experience and not medical advice. If you're considering trying RRP for Long COVID recovery, please work with qualified providers who understand both the technology and trauma-informed care. And never hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider about persistent post-COVID symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Rest and Restore Protocol help with Long COVID symptoms?
While we still lack definitive research, RRP's focus on supporting the autonomic nervous system may help with Long COVID’s multi-system disruption. My personal experiment is showing promising early results with energy and overall well-being, though individual experiences will vary.

How long should I try RRP for post-COVID recovery?
I'm committing to at least 8 weeks of consistent use to properly assess its effects. Starting slowly (every other day) allows your system to integrate the changes gradually.

Is RRP safe to use alongside other Long COVID treatments?
RRP is generally gentle, but some people find it initially challenging. Always consult with qualified providers and your healthcare team when addressing persistent post-COVID symptoms.