An Introduction by Angela Redden
Because chemotherapy and radiation are, in effect, assaults on the body, fatigue is a commonly reoccurring distraction. Even having to dress and get out of the house can be daunting tasks. Energy boosting activities to do while at home are easily accessible and easily performed.
- Using two 16 oz. cans from the cupboard, do small arm circles, upper arm curls, wrist curls, and back of the arm "kickbacks."
- With cans, hold hands down and slowly lean side to side to stretch the waist and low back. Do the same while gently punching side to side.
- Stand and sit 10 times using a straight back chair.
- Seated in the chair, raise and lower each leg 10 times. Gently stretch neck by "leaning" one ear toward the shoulder.
- Walk up and down stairs three times each day.
- Walk a little distance during the cooler parts of the day and gradually increase your distance one to two minutes each time, using muscle fatigue as a guide.
- On the bed, do "mini crunches" beginning with 10 and working up to 20 each morning upon arising.
- On the bed, perform side leg lifts being careful to allow the ankle to "lead" the leg as it raises. Do not swing.
- Standing braced against a door, do 20 calf raises.
- Against a door, do 10 standing wall push-ups. Keep the elbows flaring out.
- Remember to intersperse the exercises throughout the day. Rest often.
- Eat healthy and drink water, particularly as summer approaches.