Exercise and Chronic Illness can seem overwhelming to many at first. Frequently in chronic illness, patients are plagued by exercise intolerance and chronic fatigue, however, exercise is essential to healing. Exercise can help you manage symptoms, decrease discomfort, improve daily function, and enhance overall health. It is important to move and perform the light exercise as much as possible. Brisk walking, pilates, yoga, swimming, bike riding, and light weight lifting are recommended 4-5 times a week to maintain muscle tone and blood flow to organs and tissues. Using an elliptical or treadmill is also a very good idea. Additionally, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 lb weights are recommended to vary the workout intensity for upper body strength maintenance.
You can find many in-home workout programs on youtube to help keep your momentum to exercise.
Start small and progress slowly, have patience with yourself on this journey to healing. Moving your body and being grateful for the experience is a big factor in getting well. We are here for you every step of the way. Make it fun, it is much harder to implement a new habit, when it is something you dread. Find movement that you enjoy!
