Pacing

I've read a few different comments from ME/fibromyalgia recoverers about 'pacing'.  In the UK the NHS offers some support to people with ME/fibromyalgia and one of those programmes includes 'pacing'.  Where they are encouraged to exercise and increase it over a period of time.  As the body is exhausted it is imperative that the person starts off doing an exercise that suits their energy.  So lots of people are against 'pacing'.  In my opinion it's not the pacing that's the issue, it's what exericse they do and how intense they start doing it.

When I recovered I 'paced' myself.  I set out to walk every day and paced myself.  I increased the distance I walked each day and listened to my body for when and how far.  When I started to practice yoga and realised how beneficial it was, again I paced myself.  I listened to my body and did what worked for me each time I practiced.  Gradually over a period of time by pacing, my body was getting more and more supple and relaxed.  Pacing worked for me.

However, I had a coaching session with a client today and they are seeing a physiotherapist to support their exercise but the physio has started off at too high a level of exercise.  She is being asked to cycle and row and increase this each session.  But as her body is exhausted this is not working - it's not the pacing - it's the type of exercise. 

I think it's essential in recovery that exercise is part of the programme.  However, it's gentle, relaxing exercise that's required not high cardio.  The heart is exhausted and the main muscles (arms and legs) are exhausted.  So the body's muscles need to rest and relax as well as move.   Walking, yoga, pilates and tai chi are all excellent exercises.  And if you're learning these from a teacher or dvd it's essential that you still work at your own 'pace' and not be pushed into doing too much.  As a yoga teacher I know it's essential that you don't let yourself be pushed by a teacher.  Pace and be responsible.  One day you'll be able to cycle, step aerobics, run and row!

Please move and please pace.