Breathing into Recovery with Jackie Baxter

Breathing into Recovery with Jackie Baxter

In this enlightening episode of "Retrieving Sanity," host Keegan Read engages in a profound conversation with Jackie Baxter, a breathing instructor and coach, who shares her personal journey of dealing with long COVID and the drastic impact it had on her life. Jackie was once an incredibly active individual, thriving in her roles as a music teacher and outdoor enthusiast.

However, her world changed dramatically in March 2020 when she contracted COVID-19, leading to long-term health challenges that forced her to reevaluate her lifestyle. Jackie dives deep into the struggles she faced with long COVID, particularly the misconceptions surrounding the condition and the lack of adequate support and information available to those affected. She explains how her journey through illness led her to become a breathing instructor and coach, aiming to be the support she once needed.

A major highlight of the discussion is the significance of breathwork in Jackie’s recovery process. She describes various techniques that helped her regain a sense of control and balance in her life, despite the limitations imposed by her condition. Jackie emphasizes the importance of understanding the mental health aspects of chronic illness, noting that many people with long COVID experience exercise intolerance and post-exertional malaise, which can be incredibly challenging to navigate.

Jackie also touches on the emotional toll of being gaslit by healthcare providers, employers, and even family members, stressing the importance of validation and support for those suffering from invisible illnesses. She shares resources and ways for listeners to connect with her work, including her initiative, Long COVID Breathing, and her podcast, Long COVID Podcast. Listeners are left with a sense of hope and empowerment, encouraged to explore breathwork and seek the necessary support to manage their health challenges.

Jackie Baxter’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of breath in healing and maintaining mental health.