Conserving Energy
To live well with COPD, you must pace
yourself to avoid getting worn out. To
conserve energy and do more without
getting short of breath:
Managing Stress
Stress is a normal part of life. It can
happen when things are going well.
It can happen when things are going
poorly. Stress and anxiety can make
breathlessness worse. It’s vital for
people with COPD to:
• Focus on lowering stress and
anxiety
• Learn to relax
How does stress impact COPD?
•
• Move slowly
• Sit to dress, undress, shave, put
on makeup, and cook
• Put the things you use regularly at
waist level or within easy reach
• Rest after meals when your body is
working hard to digest food
• Use a shower stool and hose
sprayer for bathing
• Use helping devices, such as long-
handled grabbers for putting on
socks and shoes, and for reaching
high places
• Slowly tense and relax each part of
your body
•
Use a cart with wheels to complete
daily tasks
- -
- - Start with your toes
- -
- - Breathe in as you tighten
Work all the way up to your
scalp
Breathe out as you relax
Concentrate on things that make
you smile, in a comfortable place
and position
To reduce the impact of stress and
anxiety, find the best coping strategies
for you. Some examples:
•
•
•
•
Yoga
Meditation, mindfulness
Prayer
Listen to relaxing music
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