Chic & Health

Why is fatigue such a common problem?

There are a number of reasons why fatigue is experienced. Viruses and bacterial infections can be the cause along with many other health issues. Stress can also be the cause of fatigue. Fatigue is a common issue, with the number of people reporting it rising all the time.

Could stress be the cause of fatigue?

After exploring and discounting health conditions there are some natural approaches that can be helpful. If other illnesses have been discounted the cause can often be stress in one form or another. If the stress is unresolved the condition could develop into a chronic one such as M.E. (Myalgic Encephomyalitis) or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Prevention is better than cure!

It is estimated that over 2% of the population is now suffering from ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are techniques that can be learnt to reduce stress naturally. These techniques can reduce fatigue when used regularly whilst also helping to prevent the onset of a chronic condition.

Why relax when I am already fatigued?

Whilst attempting to improve energy levels, the thought of relaxing can seem pointless for some. There is a tendency for the system to be constantly switched on when under stress. Fatigue is often caused by this over activation of the stress response.

How do I reduce my fatigue?

A fatigued system can benefit from regular deep relaxation of the mind and body. This type of relaxation is different to the kind we experience whilst sleeping. There are many forms of focused relaxation techniques that are easy to perform. Guided relaxation recordings can be helpful for some.

Breathing practices

Breathing techniques have been used in Eastern traditions through Yoga, Tai Chi and Chi Gung for thousands of years. Western medical science has more recently discovered the many physiological benefits of focused breathing techniques. Shallow breathing is a symptom of stress and anxiety. This poor quality breathing leads to more physical tension and becomes a cause for more stress and fatigue.

Acupressure or tapping techniques

Acupuncture is proven to be an excellent intervention for reducing stress. Research indicates that acupressure can be even more effective than the use of needles for conditions such as anxiety and stress. Tapping techniques are a form of acupressure that can easily be self-applied. Through tapping specific points on the head and body with the finger tips it is possible to rapidly reduce symptoms of stress, reducing fatigue.

Do you drink enough water?

Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue. We are made of mostly water and so we need adequate water to operate at optimum levels. Drinks like tea and coffee act as diuretics which cause us to lose valuable fluid. Sweet carbonated drinks take considerable effort for our system to extract any usable water. Try replacing some regular drinks with warm or cold fresh drinking water.

Eating the right foods helps

Avoid sweets, chocolate and other processed sugary foods as a pick-me-up. These might increase energy in the short term, but cause a dip in energy soon afterwards. If you are looking for something sweet, try fresh or dried fruit. Foods containing complex carbohydrates including wholegrain, oats, muesli, and brown rice are beneficial. These break down more slowly than the simple carbs in sugary foods and provide a more steady stream of energy.

To sum-up

There are many forms of fatigue producing stresses that are unavoidable. We live in a world of over stimulation and constant communication. In order to reduce fatigue, we need to take time-out to nurture our systems. Just a few minutes a day using natural techniques for reducing stress will help.