So hope you have been able to apply few of those work simplification options as listed in previous blog.
As you can see that we have limited energy and too much to do.
Energy conservation refers to the way activities are done to minimize muscle fatigue, joint stress, and pain. ... Work Simplification and Energy Conservation principles will allow you to be more active and be less frustrated by fatigue, aches and pain.
Energy conservation is to help you learn how not to waste energy, so that when you need energy, zest and sparkle, you’ve got some!
Aches and pain not only affects you physically, it can also affect you emotionally and affect your relationships with others.
Fatigue (feeling weary, weak, exhausted) can make you less efficient and this can have an impact on your current daily life and work productivity.
When energy you have lasts throughout the day.You feel happy to do even more.
So what is it?
Using your energy wisely
Finding a healthy balance between activity and rest
Making the most of your body’s available energy
Getting the most activity/work done using the least amount of energy.
Energy conservation strategies
Just think of 4 P's. We will look at 3 P's here today
1.Planning
2.Pacing
3.Prioritizing
4.Positioning
1. Plan:
Make a to-do list of the things you want to get done or do, that can be accomplished in a day, so that you can plan the best time to do each task.
When you keep a list of the things you want to accomplish, you'll be able to keep track and check of what you have already done and what you have left to do.
This will give you a sense of accomplishment that is positive when you check back, just see what you were able to accomplish.
Plan your day with time to rest before and after activities.
Plan work or activities for the times of day when you have the most energy.
Spread out tasks like housework over few days or a week
Arrange your home so that most activities can be done on one floor.
Keep supplies and equipment within easy reach.
2. Prioritize:
Decide which activities are really important to you. Save your energy for things you enjoy most or very important for health and safety
Postpone less important activities or ask others to do them for you.
Set realistic goals.
How can I get more rest and relaxation times into my day that will help me to regain my energy supplies.
Can I make my daily chores more simplified so that I have more energy leftover at the end of my day to do the things I enjoy?
3. Pacing:
Pacing is key, especially for people that are used to going at a high rate all the time.
Pacing is linked to priorities -plan for things to take a little longer and focus on the most important things first.e.g. exercise in am instead of any other time of the day. M.imp. activity done first thing in the day.
Think about the steps you need to take to complete a task or activity, and then try to work through it your own pace e.g. folding laundry can be done late in the evening when you may not have much energy. Sit down, watch TV and fold laundry.
Estimate time to get the task done and don't forget to take smaller micro rest breaks in between.e.g. Sit down if you been standing, stand if you been sitting
Learning to rest your mind as well as your body is equally important and if you're worrying about what you have to do next you will probably not be getting the full benefits of your rest time.e.g. If you can take 15 min. of rest. In your 15 min. of rest time, only rest with your favorite music, book or practice stillness. Learning to rest and not think in that time.
We will explore Positioning- the 4th P of Energy Conservation next time.
Do share your experiences or suggestions..
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Productive..
Bharati Jajoo: OTR CEAS AOEAS
Body Dynamics: www.bodydynamics.in
E-mail: Bharati@bodydynamics.in
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