Feeling constantly out of breath can be exhausting. Learning to conserve your energy, or “pace yourself,” is a key strategy for managing your day with COPD.
Plan and Prioritize
Look at your daily and weekly tasks. Plan ahead and spread out strenuous activities, like shopping or cleaning, over several days. Do not try to do everything at once. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and take rest breaks in between.
Use Labor-Saving Tools
Make your life easier by using adaptive tools. A wheeled cart can carry groceries or laundry. A shower chair and a handheld showerhead allow you to bathe without standing. Sit down to prepare food, dress, or iron clothes. Wear clothes that are easy to put on, like those with zippers instead of buttons.
Move Smartly
Practice moving in a way that reduces breathlessness. Exhale through pursed lips during the hardest part of any effort, such as when you stand up, lift an object, or bend over. This helps control your breathing and makes the task feel easier.
By pacing yourself, you can complete your daily activities with less fatigue and have more energy for the things you enjoy.