Yes, with bfs, we are in a catch-22. We feel fatigued, and yet, the one thing that helps; EXERCISE evades us because we are just SO darned dog-tired. If you haven't fit this into your bfs recovery, I can't recommend it enough. As much as you feel draggy and wrung out, the solution is not to allow the symptoms to dictate what is best for you. I'm not saying you need to get out and start training for a marathon, but all human beings need to adhere to a regular routine of aerobic and strengthening activities, in order to feel healthy and vital and strong. Those of us with BFS-even more so! Exercise loads us up with endorphins, and proves, more than anything else, that our muscles are perfectly functional. If you have allowed yourself to become a couch potato (as we all have, from time to time,) it could mean starting out by walking around the block a few times at first, but building up to a good 40 minutes to an hour or so per day. I could barely walk when I first realized I had bfs. When I would do static stretching exercises, it literally would leave me in a crying, tremoring heap on the floor. However, over time, and with persistence and patience, I now enjoy and look forward to regular work-outs. In fact, I notice a huge difference when I don't fit them into my schedule. My husband, who also has bfs will often complain to me that he feels like a wrung out old mop because his job has lately prevented him from working out regularly. This is what has worked for us, and for so many others. Just don't overdo it, and be aware that you WILL shake and have more than usual soreness in the beginning. Blessings, Sue
