How to Conserve Energy in the Body
A person may need to conserve body energy for many reasons. One reason may be a chronic lung condition called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD. This causes breathlessness on exertion. Other conditions can make a person feel tired and lethargic. A person suffering from anemia or who is receiving on-going treatment for an illness may complain of feeling low in energy. Not only illness can create a need to conserve energy. People who undergo long treks or who are in a survival situation will need to conserve body energy. Planning and preparing for the situation is the key.
Instructions
-
-
1
Learn how to breathe from the diaphragm, which is known as shallow breathing, rather than from high up in the chest. Deeper, controlled breathing allows the lungs to take in the maximum amount of oxygenated air and also relaxes the body and the mind. These breathing techniques are taught at yoga, relaxation and meditation classes.
-
2
Improve your posture, such as aligning your spine and opening your chest, to help your lungs function better. If you are incapacitated because of a health condition, take note of the time of the day you feel you have the most energy. Try to work around this period of time. You may feel most energetic, for instance, an hour or so after getting up. Aim to do most of your tasks then. Take rests when you can.
-
-
3
Use the correct equipment for the job and avoid carrying heavy loads. Carrying heavy weights can cost a lot of wasted energy. If you suffer from a health condition, consider carefully the way you organize closets and drawers. Try to keep things you need at waist level to avoid stooping and reaching. Wear the right clothing for the weather conditions. People use up energy when they over- or underdress: The body tries to cool itself down when it is too warm or tries to warm itself up when it is too cold.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Sit when carrying out activities whenever possible to conserve energy.
References
- Photo Credit Stethoscope and a medical book image by Monika 3 Steps Ahead from Fotolia.com
