If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), fatigue may be a big part of your everyday life. People with RA may have limited amounts of energy each day, so finding small ways to conserve that energy is important. Here are a few tips:
Tips to Help Maximize Energy Throughout the Day
Life
Tips to Help Maximize Energy Throughout the Day
Morning
-
Rise and Shine
Set reasonable goals for the day and prioritize them. Make sure to plan downtime for yourself!
-
Keep Up with Treatment
Remember to take your medications by setting reminders or taking them along with a daily task, like brushing your teeth.
-
Think Outside the Box
Use cooking tongs to retrieve items stored out of reach, or put travel scissors in your purse to open small condiment packets.
Afternoon
-
Exercise Regularly
Even light exercises – like walking, stretching, and yoga – may help with fatigue by increasing strength and releasing endorphins, which help to reduce pain. Remember to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.
-
Take a Break
Rest will allow you to recover for more activities.
-
Grab a Snack
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like leafy greens, walnuts, and salmon, may help your body to fight inflammation.
Evening
-
Soothe Your Joints
Ask your doctor or physical therapist whether such measures as wearing a splint to reduce stress on joints may be right for you.
-
Support
Enlist the help of friends and family when you need an extra hand.
-
Meal Prep
Make – or order in – enough food to create a few days of leftovers.
Night
-
Create a List
Plan for the next day and cross out 2-3 things that don’t really have to get done.
-
Recharge
Consider treating soreness with a soothing Epsom salt bath.
-
Go to Bed Early
Being well rested can help improve your overall sense of well-being. Be sure to disconnect from your electronic devices 30 minutes before bed.
