Exercising With Chronic Fatigue

“Experiencing chronic fatigue means that you must become an expert in self-care”

Healthline.com describes chronic fatigue as " a debilitating disorder characterized by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest, and can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition."

Chronic fatigue can be experienced in a variety of ways and may or may not be professionally diagnosed, however, is universally described as feeling tired all or most of the day. This extreme tiredness can make it hard to find the motivation to get out of bed, let alone exercise.

I personally experience chronic fatigue by feeling exhausted most of the day, feeling wired at night time and living with body aches every day. Even though gentle exercise is known to greatly improve chronic fatigue, I know how hard it can be. After exercising my immune system usually crashes and I experience body pain for weeks.

Regardless of the obstacles, exercise is so important, especially when experiencing chronic fatigue. It can increase flexibility, boost mood, nourish our social lives and prevent our bodies from getting stiff. Here are some quick ways to ensure that you are lovingly moving your body, even with health barriers...

BE REALISTIC AND STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS

Everyone's body is different, and you may not be able to slug it out in the gym every day. Stop comparing yourself to the toned bodies on Instagram and get realistic. What do you feel like you can do to move your body consistently? Can you go for a 15-minute walk every second day? Can you take a Pilates class twice a fortnight? Can you practice yoga at home once a week? Whatever it is, make that your goal, stick to it (even on the days you are exhausted) and reward yourself for doing it.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is essential to many functions in the body and most people are not getting nearly enough. Magnesium is a great way to support your body while you are exercising and can be added in many ways. One great way is to have a bath post work-out with either magnesium flakes or Epsom salts. My favourite brand of Magnesium oil is by a company in Australia called "Amazing Oils." Some magnesium-rich foods are cacao, dark greens, and avocados.

BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER EXERCISE CARE

Some pre-exercise ideas are dynamic stretches, drinking protein to help muscle recovery, using magnesium oil and/or other natural muscle recovery cream and of course, drinking plenty of water. Post-exercise ideas are more protein, static stretching, a magnesium bath, more water, magnesium and foam rolling.

MINDSET

Mindset is everything in life and most chronic fatigue suffers have had a rough experience. Struggling with fatigue can accrue accusations of laziness and can make us feel like a failure. The good news is that there is help. I recommend seeing a Psychologist, Counsellor or Coach on a regular basis to let out all past trauma and frustration around pain. You can pop positive notes all around the home to remind yourself how amazing you are, and put a reminder in your phone to practice self-care. The more positive you become, the most likely it is that you will exercise, and then the better you will feel. It is a beautiful circle.

I would love to hear your experience with chronic fatigue, and if you have found anything that helps. Leave me a comment below, and let’s start a loving conversation.