Today we're launching our new How to manage your energy levels guide that's filled with practical advice for people recovering from illness or managing long-term health conditions.
It’s common to have low energy and feel more tired than usual when you’re unwell, recovering from an illness, or managing a long-term condition. Even simple tasks, such as putting on shoes, can be hard work. This can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation and anger that then contribute further to fatigue. This guide goes through techniques that can help you manage your energy when completing different tasks, through the 3Ps principle (Pace, Plan and Prioritise).
Pacing – top tips
- Break activities up into smaller tasks and spread them throughout the day.
- Try adjusting different parts of an activity to reduce the energy demands.
- Build rests into your activities; they’re key to recharging your energy.
- Stop, pause and rest between activities where possible.
- Sit and rest wherever possible.
Planning – top tips
- Plan ahead as much as possible.
- Create routines.
- Spread activities out.
- Keep items you need together and in easy reach.
- Look for equipment to reduce effort.
- Measure and track your energy use.
Prioritising – top tips
- Be kind to yourself and don’t try to do everything.
- Create a balance of activities you need and want to do.
- Delegate or drop tasks if you can.
- Look for activities that make you feel energised.
How to get your guide
You can read more about the 3Ps principle, see examples and download the full guide on our page How to manage your energy levels.
This guide replaces the 2020 version on ‘How to conserve your energy: practical advice for people during and after COVID-19’, and has been updated after further consultation with patients, the public and professionals.
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