|
|
|
|
USING THE ENVELOPE THEORY
Adapted by Connie Pich from the fall 1997 CFIDS
Chronicle for the BH CFS/FMS Support Group meeting, Dec 97.
The
CFIDS Chronicle had an article on a case study exploring how one patient reduced
fatigue and raised his energy level by carefully controlling his activity level
using the Envelope Theory. The quick
and easy way to start using the Envelope
Theory is to access your energy level hourly by using this rating system:
1 = low energy; 10 = high energy. Now
identify the things that you can do immediately that will allow you to NOT
exceed this energy level. For
instance:
Energy level =
10
Things that I can do that won’t exceed a 10
energy rating:
Clean the bathtub
Go to Wal*Mart
Wash dishes
Balance my checkbook
Energy level =
5
Things that I can do that won’t exceed a 5
energy rating:
Wash a load of clothes
Go to the bank drive-up window
Make a meal that required minimal cooking
Water the houseplants
Energy level =
1
Things that I can do that I won’t exceed a 1
level rating:
Take a shower and brush my teeth (Dressing is too much)
Watch TV
Reheat leftovers
Open mail
The goal is to always stay below your perceived
energy level. The Envelope Theory suggests that consistent evaluation of your energy
level and modifying your activity will help you:
·
Gain
control of your fatigue.
·
Gradually
have more energy available daily.
