Currently reading The Long Covid Self-Help Guide by the Post-Covid Assessment Clinic, Oxford, and while I still obvs can't say for sure that my general fatigue, sleep problems, post-exertional malaise, lightheadedness and dizziness, etc etc is related to getting COVID two whole years ago, I can say the chapter about managing fatigue has already rocked my world, especially in regards to low-level activity vs. real rest:
It's a good idea to think about the difference between rest and low-level activity. Many of us think we are resting when in fact we are engaging in low-level activity. Reading a book or magazine, watching TV, scrolling through our phone: these are low-level activities, and while they do not require a huge amount of energy (and are good to do in your day), they are still using up a little. Proper, restorative/healing rest helps to put some energy in your battery -- to charge it up. Rests are 'pauses' in activity. These might be in the form of relaxation exercises, breathing exercises, meditation techniques, mindfulness, restorative yoga practice or sensory techniques such as sound apps, a heated blanket, or aromatherapy. Find a way of truly resting that works for you.
Many people express feelings of guilt about stopping and resting or view it as a negative thing. This can act as a barrier to resting. If this sounds familiar, try to reframe your attitude to rest in a positive light. By resting you are not doing nothing, you are recharging your battery. You will be doing yourself (and those around you) a huge favor.
The book also notes that sleep and rest meet different needs and that getting good rest could lead to healthier sleep. Again: mind blown. I'm truly stoked I picked this book up for the first chapter alone.
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