You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated - send to [email protected]. Title: Overcoming Chronic Fatigue and Adrenal Exhaustion by Having Fun! Word Count: 359 Author: Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo Email: [email protected] Category: Health and Nutrition Overcoming Chronic Fatigue and Adrenal Exhaustion by Having Fun! I work with lots of patients and clients who suffer from adrenal exhaustion, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and thyroid problems. I learn a lot from them. One thing Ive noticed is that they are too tired to have fun. Imagine not having enough time in your life for enjoyment? By the time they finish doing all the things they have to do, they need to rest, and are constantly turning down offers to go out for fun activities. Even though I dont suffer from fatiguein fact quite the opposite I still sometimes fall into the trap of putting fun last. Ive learned a lot of lessons about this very topic this week. It started last Sunday when I had an unexpected day of unplanned connection and fun. I realized that although I value having fun, I sometimes let it take the back burner to work and family obligations. One of the tools I use when coaching both private and group coaching clients is a fun assessment. They are guided to list at least 20 things they love to do, and create a strategy for incorporating fun into each day. I havent done this myself in a long time, and I plan to do it this weekend. Because your interests may change from time to time, its a good idea to revisit the activity regularly, or at least twice a year. So schedule some time at least a half an hour..to sit back, relax and make a list of all the things you love so much that you feel a calling to them. Then schedule as many days as you can (at least 4) to have scheduled fun time. Start with 5 minutes. Its addicting and youll soon find yourself extending the time youve allotted. Just do it. When youre having fun, your biochemistry changes. You become more relaxed and your digestion improves. Your hormones are more balanced. Your neurotransmitters become more balanced and as a result your mood improves and your energy increases. Im planning to schedule at least 5 minutes of fun every day. My life and my health depend on it. How about you? Will you join me?
