Tired Of Being Tired?

Feeling tired, lethargic and exhausted, yet you don't know why?

Then somebody recommends you to see a doctor. The good doctor gives you a thorough check-up along with a battery of tests.

And when your test reports come back, he hands you a clean bill of health. No anaemia, no diabetes, no heart disease, no kidney problem -- all is well.

It sure sounds reassuring, yet you remain in the same quandary.

Your kind doctor then prescribes multivitamins and says, "You'll do fine."

But there is no change to your debilitating condition.

The only consolation is that you are not alone. Tonnes of pep pills are prescribed yearly to weary people just to help them get through the day. But the pep pills are no better than a whip to a tired horse.

If you wake up feeling "bone-weary" and keep saying "I'm tired" all the time, then most doctors will say that you are suffering from symptoms of chronic fatigue and that overcoming chronic fatigue isn't difficult, provided you know the rules ...

1. EXERCISE

Plan more outdoor exercises as lack of exercise and fresh air causes fatigue. Try to begin your day with a brisk walk for 30 to 40 minutes that helps recharge your batteries and get your "engine" warmed up.

Also master a simple relaxation technique like yoga and meditation.

2. DON'T RUSH

Start your day early. Always set aside a few minutes extra for traffic jams, delays and if necessary re-schedule your day's plan. A tight schedule saps your energy.

3. SET SCHEDULES

Take time each morning to set clear goals for the day.

Determine what you want to do; don't let routine control you. Remember, you can't please everyone.

4. DO WHAT YOU CAN

Don't be too obliging. Just don't say yes to every task that comes your way and end up biting more than you can chew.

You should know your limits and learn when to say no. Be realistic and you'll find most people will understand you.

Taking on too many obligations and commitments is a sure way of making the condition worse. Don't let yourself fall into this trap. Tackle one thing at a time.

Make a list, set your priorities and chart your progress, giving your best on the job at hand. Before long, all your tasks will be done and you will still feel energetic.

5. TAKE A DEEP BREATH

To get rid of fatigue, breathe deeply three times consecutively. Do this four to six times a day. The deep breath routine is very simple: first, exhale quickly through the mouth and nostrils. Next inhale slowly through the nostrils only, counting from one to 12. Now, hold your breath to a count of six. Finally, exhale, counting to six. Repeat these steps three times. You will find yourself refreshed and re-energised.

6. WATCH YOUR WEIGHT

Stay trim and fit. Keep your weight under check. Your extra pounds will wear you down. Shed the extra pounds and you will realise the big difference.

7. EAT LIGHT

Eating more iron-rich food like liver, green vegetables and fruits can provide the much-needed iron. The lack of iron in blood is known to cause fatigue.

Start with a nourishing breakfast. Eat light meals and do not stuff yourself, fearing you may not have the time for the next meal. A well-balanced diet is crucial in overcoming chronic fatigue. Avoid junk food, fatty food, and opt for plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

8. SLEEP

Sleep is a tonic. Lack of sleep will definitely make you tired. Take a regular six to eight hours of sleep during the night, and a short nap during the day if you find that refreshing and your work schedule permits it.

Too many late nights will surely wear you down. But never oversleep as you may wake up with a heavy head and feel groggy all day.

9. THINK POSITIVELY

Many people have written wonderful books on the virtues of positive thinking. Read them, if you need to. But do think positively. It will open your mind to a vast ocean of energy. You will feel motivated to achieve the impossible and things will work out the way you want.

10. RELAX WITH MUSIC

Music can light up your life. Good music is a wonderful remedy for stress and fatigue. Tune in to it and tune yourself up.

11. WATER MAGIC

Water is an energiser. Drink plenty of water each day. A good soak in the bathtub can help get rid of your fatigue. If you like to swim, do so. The jacuzzi and sauna are other good options.

12. LAUGH

Spice up your life with humour. Laughter is indeed the best medicine. A good laugh can set you free both physically and mentally. Smile often and you will be much happier. Happy people are rarely tired.

13. TACKLE STRESS

Try to reduce your emotional stress. Worry, hate, jealously, fear and suspicion are destructive emotions that drain energy.

Also tackle problems as they arise and accept your responsibilities without grumbling. You will be happier and more energetic if you keep up-to-date with your tasks.

14. GO FOR A CHANGE

If things fall into a rut and everything seems routine, fatigue bound to set in. Don't let this happen. Take on new challenges. Do things differently.

Be adventurous. And things will soon brighten up. Remember that to explore is an innate human nature. It gives you joy and brings out new energy in you.

Do things that you enjoy. Take time to read, go to the theatre, enjoy a picnic or visit a friend. After all, life is not just about being a workaholic. Relaxation is the best recipe to rejuvenate yourself.

Also fight boredom by planning your days so that you have something to look forward to after work.

15. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR

If you're on any particular long-term medication, ask your doctor if that could be the cause for your "knocked-out" condition. Many medications can make you feel lethargic.

In case you need to carry on with the medication for a long period of time, ask your doctor if he can free you from this unwanted effect.

16. TAKE A VACATION

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Does this describe you? If yes, then pack your bags and set out for a vacation.

Just follow these simple tips to boost your vitality and you will get more zest out of life and fatigue troubles you no more!

-- BERNAMA