Tiredness that is not relieved by a few good nights’ sleep may be due to anaemia; ME; glandular fever; depression; grief; anxiety; dietary deficiencies; toxicities derived from polluted food, smoking, drinking, or medication; or lack of fresh air and exercise. It can also be one of the very early signs of pregnancy, or a symptom of an underlying illness. If fatigue is persistent and is not relieved by some of the recommendations below, consult your doctor.

Treatment - Practical Advice

Ensure at least 8 hours sleep a night. Get into a routine of going to bed early and getting up early. Set yourself goals each day - but make them attainable ones. Knowing you are in control of your activities will help you achieve them without getting overtired. Involve yourself in active activities in the evening, such as reading, sewing, knitting, playing a game, drawing, etc., rather than watching television.

Dietary

Low blood sugar is a common cause of fatigue which manifests mid morning or afternoon. Iron deficiency is also a common cause of fatigue. Ensure you start the day with a nutritious breakfast. Eat a wholefood diet which incorporates plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, lean protein and low fat produce. Eat a number of small meals spread throughout the day rather than one huge blow-out daily. Ensure adequate intake of complex carbohydrates (bread, potatoes, pasta, rice). Avoid ‘empty carbohydrates’, found in sugar (soft drinks, chocolate, cakes, etc.). Avoid alcohol.

Aromatherapy

Essential oil of peppermint is stimulating and strengthening. Place 2 drops in a bath with 4-6 drops of rosemary, or place a tissue and inhale.

Homeopathy

Arnica 6c, every 10 minutes for 3 doses, taken at night, will help you switch off from the day’s exertion, and improve quality of sleep.

Bach Flower Remedies

Olive: take several times a day for 4-7 days.

Exercise

For nonspecific fatigue, which is not related to a viral infection, moderate exercise will help you sleep better and boost energy. Any aerobic exercise which works up a sweat is beneficial.

Relaxation

Fatigue is often caused by an ongoing concern or stress. If you know what is worrying you, try to discuss it with someone you trust and respect. If the problem cannot be resolved immediately, set aside some time each day when you will not think about it, or decide to give yourself a break from it and address the problem in a week or a months time. Professional psychotherapy or counseling can help resolve issues which cause ongoing anxiety or stress. Learning meditation or biofeedback will help you become aware of stress in your life and how to deal with them. Massage is an excellent way of relaxing, and is very restorative.

Yoga

Yoga is an incredibly energizing activity. It enhances your breathing, allowing more oxygen into the system, it improves blood circulation by stretching the muscles, and it relaxes the mind. Attending a class regularly will help relieve fatigue. The following routine should be carried out first thing in the morning:

Stand with feet apart and arms outstretched to the side. Swing both arms as far as you can to your right, turning your head and shoulders, then back to the left. Repeat this movement 5 times. Let your arms, head and trunk drop down to the floor in front of you. Inhale and gradually lift your trunk and head, and reach up as high as you can with your arms. Remain in the stretch for a few seconds, exhale and repeat.

Orthodox

Fatigue is one of the most common ailments reported to doctors. A routine checkup will probably be required to rule out serious illness. Treatment is aimed at relieving the cause of the problem.