CFS Pacing is a drug-free approach to relieving the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. CFS Pacing involves breaking tasks down into small manageable sessions and resting between sessions to allow the body to recuperate before finishing the task. Pacing is an energy conscious approach to tackling important activities.

Over-activity is frequently the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms. When we over-use our body our muscles and organs release large amounts of trapped toxicity. One would think that the release of toxins would be healthy, but if too much toxicity is released into the blood stream our body quickly becomes overwhelmed and we feel fatigued.

Several studies have been performed to help combat CFS based on a graded-exercise programme. This graded programme has become controversial because several doctors have misinterpreted it. This has resulted in doctors pushing patients too hard or not sympathising with the patients and their needs.

These are just a couple of reasons why positive results have been small at best and why ‘Pacing’ is a more realistic and effective approach than a graded-exercise programme.

10 Tips for Successful CFS Pacing…

1. Listen to your Body:
   The body sends us signs and signals when it is being overworked. For this reason listening to your body is essential. It is important to balance rest and activity.
2. Alternate Activity and Rest:
   Alternating between work and rest can help you complete a project without lapsing into CFS fatigue. One way to do this would be to work for fifteen minutes, then rest for fifteen minutes, then work for another fifteen minutes, and so on. You’ll find that you are more likely to finish the task if you follow this tip.
3. Do Half of What You Think You Can Do:
   Only do half of what you ‘think’ you can do. This may seem frustrating at first, especially on those energetic days, but in the long run you’re much less likely to relapse.
4. Prioritise Activities:
   It is important to prioritise activities so that the most important tasks get done first. This way if you are unable to finish every task, then at least the most important tasks are finished. Also, try to leave yourself plenty of time to complete each task.
5. Ask People to Help You:
   Another way to help cope with CFS is to employ someone, or ask friends/relatives to complete tasks that may be too rigorous for you to complete on your own. Tasks such as washing the car or vacuuming can be given to others to complete until you’re well enough to perform them again.
6. Let Equipment Do the Work:
   If finances permit, purchase tools to help you with your tasks. For example, if bending over the bathtub to clean it wears you out, treat yourself to a special product with a handle extension. Or if you feel fatigue after washing dishes, installing a dishwasher may help.
7. Plan Big Events:
   Planning ahead can be key to a successful event without burnout. For example, perhaps you can plan to write invitations one day, then order flowers the next, and so forth. Try to space out your events for the month. Don’t schedule more than you are able to handle.
8. Rest:
   Rest is essential when coping with CFS. It’s so easy to get caught up with everything going on in our daily lives that we forget to take time to rest. So rest when your body signals it needs it.
9. Be Your Own Best Friend:
   When starting a new task, only do it for a short time you know you can mange. Test yourself, but not at the expense of your health. If something doesn’t work out, or if you are unable to complete the task, understand that you did your best and will try again at a later time. Frustration and anger will only use energy that could be put toward something else. So treat yourself as your own best friend.

Summary
Because CFS affects many people each year it is important to not only understand the disorder, but also to know what can be done to help relieve it. Drug-free ways of coping with CFS do exist. By using these 10 Tips for Successful CFS Pacing, working with your body to understand its needs, and keeping a close watch on the healing process, you can take positive steps towards recovery.

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