It is perfectly normal to feel tired after strenuous physical activity, and usually, after a short period of rest, you should feel well recovered.
However, there was a time this was not the case for me. I was feeling tired for seemingly no reason. It got to the point where the feeling of exhaustion had become my constant companion. It wasn’t long before my doctor labeled, what I was experiencing, CFS -chronic fatigue syndrome.
The cause…
It is still unclear as to what causes chronic fatigue syndrome. For me, the CFS was brought on by extreme stress that begun with the end of my marriage, work burnout, topped by the 9/11 crisis in NY.
Headache, muscle aches and joint pain are some common symptoms. Other symptoms include brain fog, impaired concentration or memory, irritable bowel issues and feeling unrested after adequate periods of sleep.
So far, no medication has yet been developed that can ‘cure’ CFS. Therefore, current best practice to conquer chronic fatigue syndrome is to strengthen your immune system by eating healthy, taking vitamins, regularly exercising and resting as needed.
Change is in the air…
I want to share with you some helpful tips and home remedies that may help you boost your energy and feel more invigorated. Yet, what did it for me, how I cured myself from CFS and FMS -fibromyalgia, often the two go together, was a complete change of nutrition and way of thinking. I had to move myself into the organics and a mindful way of living, if I wanted to gain a higher quality of life.
A place I found solace and helped get back to health was the Kripalu center in Lenox, MA.
Here are some first steps to take if you’re experiencing the type of tiredness that just feels “weird.” Remember, the first thing to do is to contact your health practitioner for assistance with CFS.
Natural dietary sources…
- Eat raw fruits and vegetables, organic when possible. The vitamins and minerals found in these foods are excellent for strengthening the immune system.
- Drink plenty of pure water every day to help flush out toxins.
- Supplement with Acidophilus or consume raw yogurt (Greek FAGE, is my favorite) to keep your digestive system functioning properly.
Regular exercise…
Ideally, 20-30 minutes of moderate exercise each day is recommended. It is vital to keep your joints and muscles supple and your body strong to help protect against chronic fatigue syndrome.
How do you start when you feel exhausted?
That’s usually the biggest hurdle. In the beginning I would just drive to the gym, rest a bit so I could drive me back home. But you know what? After a while of doing such and bit by bit, I started spending 5-min on the elliptical and eventually I was able to increase my work out periods. Stay mindful and listen to your body. Start slow and build upon it. The key to success here is patience…patience with yourself.
Natural supplements…
Herbal medicines which have been found to contain immune system boosting qualities include Echinacea, Goldenseal and Ginseng root. Taking these supplements on a regular basis is a great way to help support your immune system and protect yourself from CFS.
Herbal therapies are safe, natural and effective if you allow them time to work and follow directions. Some herbs such as Echinacea are not recommended to be taken more for more than 6 weeks to 8 weeks at a time, so be sure and check with your health practitioner.
Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Devil’s Claw are successfully used by many individuals who suffer from joint pain as well.
Taking extra Vitamin C and zinc can help boost your immune system. Taking essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3, 6, and 9 oils, is not only great for the brain and cognitive function but also lubricate joints from the inside out.
Takeaway…
The supplements I am suggesting here ought to be just the very beginning of your journey. Take it upon you to research and learn what your options are. Thank God for Google. Practice and experiment until you figure out what works best for you. Above all, know and believe that you can and will overcome this obstacle.
Many people overcome CFS and many don’t. For me being a single mom at the time, I had no other option but to regain my health and I did. I am deeply grateful for that.
If you find yourself in the maze of trying to figure out what to do next, I can help. Reach out to me, I will be happy to share with you what I learned from my experience and to answer any of your questions.
