If you are constantly tired, it’s easy to think that it’s a normal part of life as you get older. It is not. Sadly, I remember telling my doctor one time that I was feeling so tired and his response was that he was tired also. I didn’t have the space to examine how my job was draining me and I could have made adjustments. At that time, I accepted the doctor’s words at face value, but I felt an anger brewing inside of me.
I think women, who already do too much, are often told that their symptoms are all in their heads in one subtle form or other. Their complaints are dismissed. Especially now, several years into the ongoing pandemic, many of us are fatigued because we are on guard and bombarded with disturbing news. Many of our lives haven’t returned to completely normal, even though we carry on as best as we can. Many of our relationships had difficulties because we didn’t have continuity. We may have ongoing health challenges or children who have their own struggles. Fatigues seems to be normal during this time.
Here are some suggestions when fatigue is never ending, but you still have to carry on.
Reduce, Reduce, Reduce
Look at your to-do list and cut it in half or find ways to take shortcuts until you feel better. Your health and well-being have to come first. Ask people for help, knowing that someday when you feel better, you will pay it forward. You may have to choose your top two or three priorities and let the rest go.
Add More Rest
Create breaks into your day or weekend. A 20 minute nap at lunch or in the afternoon is very restorative. Make time to take a few deep breaths, step outside, or take a meditation break. It doesn’t need to take up tons of time, you just need to make the conscious choice and a priority for you.
Creative Play
Sometimes the best way to feel less tired is to participate in hobbies that rejuvenate you. This is different for everyone. Dance to music for a few minutes each day. Listening to energizing or calming music that you enjoy will help you balance the feeling side of your mind and body. If you enjoy the arts, there are so many videos and tutorials on the internet. I personally have found that working on my dance skills helps me take my mind off of my responsibilities and speaks to my soul. Dancing makes me feel like I’m not even exercising.
Taking Care of Yourself
Making sure that you are taking care of your health in little ways, such as drinking enough water is the one area you can push yourself. If you’re already depleted and neglecting yourself further, then that makes everything seem much worse. Make sure you are getting the sleep you need. Finding people who energize you to socialize with, is essential for your well-being. We are social creatures and are fuelled by supportive people.
