Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome present us with many physical and mental challenges. Here are some little tips that may make a big difference in helping you minimize mental errors and conserve your energy for those things you need and/or want to do:
- When you cook, make double and freeze half. When you’re having a bad day, all you have to do is heat and serve.
- Make lists –– shopping lists, to do lists, gift-giving lists –– anything you need to remember. Once it’s written down, your mind is free to focus on other things. Always keep your lists in the same place so you know where to find them.
- Save yourself unnecessary trips to the grocery by keeping a pad and pencil handy in your kitchen and jotting down items you’re running low on as soon as you notice them. That way, when you make out your grocery list, you won’t forget essential items.
- To minimize steps in the grocery store, organize your shopping list to flow with the layout of the store.
- Arrange your cabinets and closets so that the things you use most are the easiest to get to.
- Keep a basket of often used items (pad, pencil, nail file, hand lotion, etc.) on the end table next to your favorite chair so you don’t have to get up every time you need something.
- Look for kitchen gadgets that make food preparation easier: food chopper, jar opener, electric can opener, apple wedger, etc.
- If you live in a two-story house, keep a set of the most often-used items on each floor (i.e., hairbrush, scissors, diapers).
- Save yourself multiple trips up and down stairs by setting things on the stairs that need to be transported so the next person going up/down can take them.
- Clean out your purse so that you’re not carrying around unnecessary weight. Loose change is one of the biggest culprits. You’d be surprised at how heavy three or four dollars in change can be.
- Break the habit of throwing your purse over your shoulder. The extra weight on one shoulder can lead to neck, back, shoulder and arm pain. Try just carrying a small handbag or billfold or wearing a fanny pack.
- When you get ready to buy a new vehicle, consider a mini-van. They’re easier to get in and out of than most cars, SUV’s and trucks.
- Get help with tasks that are difficult for you. If you can’t afford to hire someone, trade services with a friend. Or try to find something else in your budget that can be cut so that you can pay for help. If a friend or family member asks what they can do to help, don’t be shy –– tell them what you need.
- Experiment with pillows –– lots of pillows. Whether your sleeping, watching TV or riding in a car, strategically placed pillows can provide you with the added comfort and support you need. There are an assortment of specially designed pillows on the market to support every part of your body. Experiment to find what works best for you. If you can’t find the perfect pillow, try making one yourself.
- Take some time every day for you. Soak in a bubble bath, lay in a hammock under the trees, curl up in bed with a good book –– whatever is relaxing and pleasurable for you.
