Natural Treatments of Long Covid - Part 1

As our knowledge and expertise in treating Long Covid patients has become widely acknowledged, we have quickly become highly sought after for the holistic-based treatment of Long Covid at our London clinic. We are pleased to share this updated version of our previous blog, Successfully treating Long-Covid. Responding to the need for greater support from our patients, we are also delighted to share that we are now offering an empirically backed Long Covid Recovery Programme integrated with bespoke Ayurvedic wellness offerings at our Sanctuary in Sri Lanka.

At Sen Wellness we believe that each one of us has the power to heal, flourish, and awaken to our highest inner potential. After hundreds of successful treatments, we have now crafted a unique, holistic approach to healing symptoms of Long Covid. Harnessing the power of holistic healing modalities rooted in Ayurveda, we have developed a unique programme that has the power to offer hope to those who may be suffering.

Since the autumn of 2020, I have spent much time observing a large number of patients recovering from Covid. During this time, limited data and research were available and there was much uncertainty in symptoms associated with Covid. We are grateful that our blog post offered hope to those who were suffering and encouraged many to seek a holistic natured treatment programme after they were left disheartened by a more conventional approach.

It is profoundly heartening to have reached and supported such a large group of individuals internationally on their road to recovery from what for many has been an extremely trialing, lonely, and misunderstood condition. I would like to dedicate this blog post to all our patients for instilling their trust in us to walk alongside them on their journey back to equilibrium and well-being.

We are pleased to present this blog post with incredibly relevant information, including feedback from influential academics at the forefront of Long Covid research. It is our hope that this blog offers hope of recovery to those who may be suffering.

What is Long Covid?

“Long Covid is a condition that seems to elude the best efforts of healthcare practitioners operating inside the NHS, as well as private consultants and Long Covid clinics. My opinion is that a holistic approach to the body and treatment is the only way we’re likely to ’shake the tree’ and elicit significant improvement and help us in our journey of recovery. Sam Kankanamge and his team at Sen Wellness have made an enormous difference to me and my recovery - it’s safe to say that I wouldn’t have been able to continue working the way I have without his efforts. His energy, understanding, knowledge, and intuition are unparalleled and I wouldn’t have the slightest hesitation to recommend his approach for a range of health problems as well as that of Long Covid.”

-Gez Medinger-

To begin, I would like to share my experience as well as empirical evidence that my team and I have gathered in treating a large pool of Long Covid patients.

The majority of patients belonged to the 20-45-year-old age group. Common themes among patients were that they were all relatively fit, exercised often, and had busy lifestyles. Many experienced very mild Covid symptoms, however, these symptoms worsened over 4 weeks, developing into Long Covid. In nearly 40 cases, patients had experienced a history of ME/CFS or immune system failure. Lastly, a large group of Long Covid sufferers lived with heightened levels of stress.

Researchers are finding lingering similarities between Long Covid and ME/CFS. Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex condition affecting 1 million to 2.5 million people in the United States alone. It is characterized by a cluster of symptoms, including severe and debilitating fatigue, disrupted and unrefreshing sleep, difficulty thinking (commonly called “brain fog”), abnormalities of the autonomic nervous system, and post-exertional malaise — a flare-up of multiple symptoms following physical or cognitive exertion. (Bindu, Paul, and Anthony Komaroff) Gez Medinger and Dr. Ronald Tompkins MD on “Long Covid vs ME/CFS | Why There’s Much We Can Learn From The Similarities” is linked here.

If you would like to read more about Post-COVID and Long Covid conditions, data from The CDC can be found here.

Symptoms presented high level:

Among our Covid patients, these were the most common symptoms presenting themselves: difficulty breathing, tightening of the chest, and shortness of breath.

Of our Long Covid patients, many reported physical tiredness, lack of energy for physical exertion, difficulty performing everyday tasks such as cleaning the kitchen, and brain fog. The accumulation of these symptoms created an immense amount of both emotional and physical stress.

Other symptoms include:

Various types of muscle-skeletal pain: Specifically lower back, shoulder, and neck pain. This often led to headaches and migraines induced by physical misalignment.
Abdomen and digestive disorder: This symptom is often presented with inflammation of the intestinal tissue or food intolerance.
Inflammation of myocardial tissue: While not as common, this is worth noting as some experienced inflammation of the heart muscle.
Loss of smell and tinnitus were also extremely common.

Further, there is a large connection between Covid and the microbiome that has been overlooked. Our microbiome is a gateway to our immune function. It holds the power to fight off infection, and disease, and create natural immunity within our intestinal flora.

However, due to the Western diet, many of us are exposed to in modern-day life, we have very little microbiome left in the intestinal flora. In many cases, this is due to chemical damage. Chemicals that are present in processed foods, plastic, and beyond all contribute to the deterioration of our flora. In addition, the overuse of antibiotics from a young age also contributes to the deterioration of the microbiome. Less intestinal flora leads to a weaker immune function.

A study shared by Science titled Seasonal cycling in the gut microbiome of the Hadza hunter-gatherers of Tanzania expressed the diversity of microbiota within the Hadza hunter-gatherers in comparison to urbanized communities. The data from the study indicated that some dynamic lineages of microbes have decreased in prevalence and abundance in modernized populations. Hence, the microbiota of the hunter-gatherers in Hadza was much more successful in defending the body against covid.

Common symptoms explained in depth:

Compromised Sympathetic Nervous System

Through and through we have found that our Long Covid patients present with highly aroused and highly-wired sympathetic nervous systems. Many patients' nervous systems have been in a state of overdrive, a state that triggers a compromised immune system. When the immune system is compromised, it is extremely difficult to fight off infection and disease. For many patients who present with highly aroused sympathetic nervous systems, something as simple as a short walk can trigger sympathetic overdrive. Oftentimes setting off symptoms such as chest pain, inflammation of cardiac muscles, and heart palpitations. Upstate Medical University shared-“Some patients who survive COVID infections struggle with a variety of symptoms after they’ve recovered from the infection, a condition called long COVID. Some of those symptoms are related to the body’s autonomic nervous system, which plays a role in involuntary body processes including heartbeat, blood flow, digestion, and breathing.” (Eldokla, Ahmed)

Inflammation of Bowel & Intestinal Tissues triggered by the Vagus Nerve

Another extremely common finding amongst our patients is inflammation of the bowel and intestinal tissues. From my background in osteopathy, a simple osteopathic examination reveals that these tissues are related to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the most influential in the parasympathetic system. When activated and properly functioning it can help you better manage stress, reduce cortisol levels, and achieve a better homeostatic balance, which affects all physiological functions of the body, including better absorption of nutrients and digestion, decreased systemic inflammation, improved short-term memory, lowers blood pressure, boosts the immune system, produces endorphins that make you feel good, relieves anxiety and depression and can stimulate stem cells. The vagus nerve is something that is often overlooked and not examined in traditional healthcare, but it is vital to your optimised well-being. Similar to our first finding, the vagus nerve is compromised by states of overstimulation to the sympathetic nervous system. When your vagus nerve is compromised it is common to experience anxiety, palpitations, and mood swings. All of these lead to inflammation of the intestinal lining and colon. "'I started seeing Sam for my Long Covid and PoTS a year ago. Through a combination of cranial osteopathy, acupuncture, breath-work, and trauma release he and his colleague Lina have helped my symptoms. At Sen Wellness Centre, you are treated as a person rather than a collection of organs. This holistic approach helped unearth issues with my autonomic nervous system and identified the role of prior traumatic experiences in my symptoms presentation. I would strongly recommend their services to anyone with Long Covid’.” -Dr. Asad Khan

Brain Fog

From an osteopathic approach, brain fog is the result of residual locking and compression of the dural membrane. The dural membrane acts as a protective barrier to prevent viruses from attacking the brain and central spinal cord. When exposed to states of stress, such as being attacked by the virus, the dural membrane releases fluid, leaving it less hydrated, compressed, and inflamed. Thus, limiting space for movement from the brain to the spinal cord, as well as compromising its ability to filter nutrients and fresh blood. Brain fog is often a result of a compromised and inflamed dural membrane. An article published in Forbes recently stated: Although inflammation is a common feature of many infections, viral and otherwise, SARS-CoV-2 elicits a particularly intense inflammatory response. Exactly why remains unclear. What is becoming increasingly clear, on the other hand, is that much of the damage associated with Covid-19 can be traced back to this hyperinflammation. (Haseltine, William)

A Holistic Approach- Restore Equilibrium at our Sanctuary

Being a holistic osteopath with an integrative approach to addressing Long Covid, it has been of the utmost importance to me to acknowledge that symptoms vary from person to person; to understand that each person is unique and requires individualised treatment.

Over 25 years of experience, I have gained a vast understanding of a person’s emotional, mental, and physical profile. Furthermore, the ability to sense and understand the proprioception of tissues in the body; our tissues often present underlying symptoms and lead the way for a recovery program.

I have mindfully crafted a Long Covid Recovery Programme that has proven to be successful. Rooted in Ayurveda, osteopathy, and harnessing the power of ancient healing modalities, I can confidently say it is possible to heal Long Covid and reignite your inner light.

Our Long Covid Recovery Programme is deeply inspired by the Ayurvedic practice, Panchakarma. Panchakarma is the Sanskrit word meaning five actions or five treatments. This ancient system of healing is designed to act as a bio-cleansing regimen that eliminates toxic elements from the body, thereby enhancing the body’s immune function.

Resetting the Autonomic Nervous System

The radical elimination that takes place during Panchakarma works as an effective method of healing for those suffering from Long Covid. The treatments make way for the release of toxins, micro-clotting, reducing inflammation on both micro and macro levels, and much more.

Panchakarma acts as a trigger for the autonomic nervous system to reset. During this phase, your nervous system will exit from a state of “fight or flight” and restore your nervous system to a state of equilibrium.

The programme will be tailored to your requirements after consultation with our resident Ayurvedic doctor. Panchakarma will be the main focus of treatments for the reasons shared and will also be aided by complementary modalities such as acupuncture and a bespoke mindfulness programme created in collaboration with our research partners at the University of Humboldt in Berlin. By the end of this personalised 12-day programme set in idyllic surroundings, your mind and body will feel balanced and restored.

Our Long Covid Recovery programme goes beyond a traditional medical experience. Our goal is to go further, to address traumas and stress associated with Covid and social isolation. Not merely addressing physical symptoms, our intention is also to provide you with emotional support and to introduce long-term lifestyle changes upon returning from the programme. Much care has been forethought into the design of this programme to give you the necessary tools to continue on a new path of well-being.

For more information on our Long Covid Recovery programme, you can get in touch at 020 7486 3373 or email us at [email protected]

Excellent

Sen Wellness Sanctuary

4.6

Based on 227 reviews

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I stayed at Sen Wellness Retreat for 11 days and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment you arrive, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make you feel instantly at ease. The location is absolutely magical — a perfect place to disconnect and reconnect with yourself.

The staff are incredibly kind and welcoming. While many of them don’t speak much English, their warmth and genuine care shine through in everything they do. The doctors and therapists, in particular, are remarkable — true professionals who approach their work with deep humility and kindness. You can feel that they are very special souls, and their presence really enhances the healing experience.

The food was another highlight — all vegetarian, beautifully prepared, and full of flavor. Their homemade peanut butter is hands down the best in the world! The yoga sessions were gentle, grounding, and deeply relaxing, perfectly complementing the holistic approach of the retreat.

All in all, my time at Sen Wellness was absolutely amazing — for some, I can imagine even life-changing. I would recommend it wholeheartedly and would absolutely return!

W.Diniru Dewneth F.

A magical retreat! Serene lagoon, caring staff, and rejuvenating yoga. Perfect place to relax, heal, and reconnect with yourself. Highly recommended!

HAZE

Great Experience.
Amazing Location.
Unreal Food.
All round phenomenal experience.
Attentive to your every need.
Peaceful.. Tranquil.. Healing.
Five stars.

Hannah

A Truly Special Place – Deep Healing and Kindness

I spent 13 days at Sen Wellness Sanctuary and had a truly beautiful stay. I took part in both the Wellness Program and the Long Covid Treatment, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I arrived feeling tired and depleted, and left with energy, clarity, and a deep sense of motivation—something I hadn’t felt in a long time.

The entire team is incredibly warm, attentive, and kind. Every single person goes above and beyond to make you feel supported. The treatments and massages were outstanding—especially Rasanga and Nisansala have magical hands! One of the best massages I’ve ever had came from Rasanga.

The food was absolutely delicious—nourishing, creative, and full of flavor.

Dr. Chamodi is caring and always available to answer questions with patience and warmth. Yasemine, who takes care of the guests’ well-being, is simply wonderful—a deeply compassionate and generous soul. Thank you for everything!

The yoga sessions with Shefali were an absolute highlight. Her morning classes are more dynamic, the evening sessions are calming and intuitive—always in tune with the group’s energy. She combines breathwork, meditation, and movement beautifully. She’s not only a great teacher but a wonderful human being. I will truly miss her.

There are also a few lovely extras and little adventures around the retreat, some offered by the Sanctuary and others available at a small cost: a short hike to a temple with breathtaking views, a quiet lagoon boat ride, watching turtles nest on the beach, or even a safari where you can see elephants (definitely visit the orphanage too!).

If I had to mention one small thing: prices for extras like a coconut, laundry or lunch on the day of departure could be reconsidered—but this didn’t take away from the overall experience.
And one thing I would have appreciated: a bit more explanation in advance about Ayurveda and how the Long Covid treatment would work.

I’m so thankful for this time of healing and rest. I will definitely be back—and do recommend Sen Wellness Sanctuary to anyone seeking deep transformation in a safe, caring, and beautiful space.

lamia 2.

What a nice calm time to spend, the staff are very friendly the food is so good! its nice having meals with other residents, the massages were amazing, sound bath, meditation and yoga were so relaxing! And they have activities you could do like visiting the temple or the lagoon!
The pool and the beach are right outside! I drank so much water there haha but I definitely felt great!

Overall super chill time highly recommended

Bollywood L.

I desperately needed a break from work and ended up at Sen wellness. I couldn’t have found a better place. The rooms are spacious, clean and have all the amenities one could need. The staff is polite and keeps checking up on us if we need anything. Variety of food to keep you full and satiated. The beach is the highlight, which is so serene and secluded like you have an entire beach to yourself. This place is tucked away from the town, a little piece of paradise.
Thank you Sen Wellness

Sara A.

Had an amazing and deeply restorative stay at Sen Wellness Retreat. The yoga sessions with Shifali were a highlight—gentle, grounding, and full of presence. She created such a peaceful and nurturing space each day.

The Ayurveda treatments with Dr. Chamodi and her team were incredibly healing. Dr. Chamodi was kind, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail, making each treatment feel truly personalized and aligned with our wellness goals.

A very special thank you to Yasmine, the wellness manager, who truly made our stay exceptional. From the moment we arrived, she greeted us with warmth and genuine care. Throughout the retreat, she was always present—checking in, anticipating our needs, and ensuring everything ran smoothly. Her ability to connect with each guest and create a sense of comfort and belonging is rare and truly appreciated.

The food was another highlight—fresh, nourishing, and delicious. thanks to the wonderful chef and kitchen team.

Sen is a beautiful sanctuary where every detail is designed for healing. I left feeling lighter, calmer, and deeply grateful. Highly recommend!

Delphine R.

We had a deeply nourishing experience at Sen Wellness. The Ayurvedic team was generous, skilled, and attentive — each treatment felt meaningful and aligned. Yasmin, the wellness organiser, was absolutely wonderful: warm, efficient, and incredibly supportive throughout our stay. Her care and presence truly elevated the experience.

Sen Wellness is a special place with a lot of heart and potential. With some refinement of the physical environment to match the depth and quality of the healing work, it could become a truly exceptional retreat space.

Thank you to the whole team — and especially to Yasmin — for creating such a supportive and soulful atmosphere.

Delphine L

Anna R.

The quality is excellent. The staff is gentle and very nice. the nature and all the activities nourishing the body , the soul, the clarity of mind.

Rodolfo C.

Amazing experience thanks to the Dr, Treatments and Staff. They are actually the magic: Dr Chamodi, Rasanga and Mrs Madu. People with amazing heart and ready to help. Thanks again for everything

Paige L.

My stay at Sen Wellness was incredible. My boyfriend and I booked a 14-day wellness retreat but ended up staying for 18 days. The doctors went above and beyond to make us feel genuinely cared for in a very bespoke way — I even accidentally fractured my toe while I was there, and they tended to it daily alongside my Ayurvedic treatments.

The therapists were all highly skilled. The male therapists were great for a stronger, more structural approach, while the female therapists offered a gentle, nurturing touch that felt deeply supportive.

The schedule was thoughtfully curated — from daily yoga and meditation to private sessions with the resident Monk, cacao and breathwork ceremonies, special meals, cooking demos, and Ayurveda classes. That said, there was absolutely no pressure to attend everything, which allowed for plenty of spaciousness to rest and move at your own pace.

The setting itself is pure magic: wild jungle on one side, pristine ocean on the other, and monkeys swinging through the trees in between.

Sen is the kind of place that’s perfect for anyone moving through a transition. For me, it reset my nervous system after a particularly stressful six months, and helped me anchor into new habits for the next chapter. I also left looking (and feeling) ten years younger.

Would — and will — absolutely return!

Bradley M.

Spent nearly three weeks at Sen - beautiful project, beautiful people and a beautiful place.

The food was sensational, the massages and treatments were world class (request face/head massage from rasanga) and the nature is surreal - you are in a jungle surrounded by monkeys and steps from the most pristine beautiful beach, to yourself.

My recommendation for the panchakarma would be to come prepared with things you want to work on - it was more flexible than I thought, and the team/doctors looking after you are incredibly accomodating, so you can really mould your experience if you wish (ie silent days, juice fast, day trips, special treatments).

They’ve also created a really nice community vibe - so you’re meeting/dining always with a great/interesting crew of humans.

We were even lucky enough to catch a session with the founder Sam (magician) and a cacao ceremony

Thanks especially madu, yasmin, dr chamodi and the whole staff crew for always being so friendly/helpful.

Andrew W.

I stayed at Sen Wellness Sanctury for a week in May. The property is beautifully located just 2 minutes walk from a lovely long stretch of wild ocean beach where turtles arrive to nest. There are a variety of room choices all nicely appointed.

The staff in all areas of the business were fantastic.

Lovely food, 3 meals a day with with morning and evening yoga sessions, daily treatments, massages and organised day trips completed a really comprehensive package. The shared environment is tastefully decorated enabling a very relaxed space to relax, snooze or chat with other guests.

My stay here has been delightful and I would highly recommend Sen Wellness Sancturay to anyone wishing to take a healthy break in Sri Lanka.

Andrew.😀

Marius K.

Sen Wellness is the perfect place to unwind. With its kind staff, a pleasant space, the perfect location and great food, it really embodies the combination of factors needed for great relaxation. The Ayurveda treatments worked well for me, and I would definitely consider this retreat ideal for beginner in Ayurveda. Overall, I can highly recommend this place!

Alessandra C.

I would totally recommend Sen Wellness - I really enjoyed my stay. Loved the treatments, the pool area and especially ayurvedic food.
The location is just perfect - right next to a quiet beach.

Author

Sam Kankanamge

Sam Kankanamge BSc (Hons) Osteo, DPO, Dip.Acu is an exceptional, world renowned healthcare professional, with over 25 years-experience transforming patients’ health.