I actually started mixing it up between the protective styles and hair out. I can honestly say because I'm really conscious about the overall state of my hair, I'm seeing less breakage and porosity issues. I keep reminding myself that growth's going to happen regardless but instead to focus on the state of my ends and keeping the NG in check, lol. Heck I made a decision to enjoy my hair at all lengths and phases it goes through --- but enjoy it intelligently!
My hair has grown A LOT in the 2 mons since I joined this forum. I am not an avid bunner/protective styler, I like to flat iron my hair 1x a week after my DC wash day and wear it out. The other days I co-wash, and if I bun, I definitely moisturize and seal before throwing on my scarf to dry. I agree that that's definitely key.
Cathy Howse did say she never did PS-ing, and in my experience thus far if your hair is in a healthy state overall, it should be fine.