Energy Conservation – Tips to Manage Fatigue and Live Better
- claire2876
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
Do you find yourself exhausted by lunchtime, struggling to get through basic daily tasks, or needing extra time to recover after even mild activity? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to push through the fatigue without support.
Fatigue can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it’s due to chronic illness, disability, ageing, mental health challenges, or post-illness recovery (such as long COVID), it can severely impact your ability to work, care for yourself, and enjoy life. Occupational therapists (OTs) can help you manage fatigue using energy conservation techniques, making day-to-day life more manageable and meaningful.
In this blog, we’ll explain what energy conservation is, who it benefits, how OTs approach fatigue management, and—most importantly—share practical tips you can start using right away.
What Is Energy Conservation?
Energy conservation is a strategy used in occupational therapy to help people use their energy more effectively throughout the day. Rather than pushing through fatigue and “crashing” later, it’s about balancing activity, rest, and recovery to maintain participation in important tasks.
OTs work with clients to understand how energy is being used across their daily routines—identifying what activities drain them most, what supports recovery, and where small changes can prevent burnout.
Energy conservation is not about doing less—it’s about doing things differently.
Who Benefits from Energy Conservation Techniques?
These strategies are helpful for people experiencing:
Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME
Multiple sclerosis
Long COVID
Post-surgery recovery
Arthritis or fibromyalgia
Cancer recovery
Chronic pain
Mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
Age-related changes in energy and mobility
Fatigue is more than just being tired. It is a persistent, often invisible symptom that affects both physical and cognitive function. OTs understand this and approach treatment with empathy and evidence-based care.
The 4 P’s of Energy Conservation
Occupational therapists often teach the “4 P’s” as a framework for conserving energy:
Plan
Think ahead. Group similar tasks together and try to avoid repeating steps (e.g. carry everything you need at once, rather than making multiple trips).
📝 Tip: Use a planner or calendar to schedule high-energy tasks for times of day when you feel most alert—often morning.
Pace
Alternate between tasks and rest. Don’t wait until you’re exhausted before taking a break.
🛋️ Tip: Use timers to remind yourself to pause every 15–30 minutes, even if you feel okay. Resting proactively prevents deeper fatigue later.
Prioritise
Not everything has to be done today. Choose the tasks that are most important for your health, wellbeing, or responsibilities—and let go of less essential ones.
⭐ Tip: Make a “must do,” “should do,” and “nice to do” list for the day.
Position
Make adjustments to reduce how much energy you use. Sit instead of stand. Bring items closer to you. Use both hands when lifting. Avoid unnecessary steps.
🪑 Tip: Sit down while brushing your teeth, preparing food, or showering to reduce strain on your legs and back.
Other OT-Endorsed Fatigue Management Tips
🧰 Use Assistive Equipment
Items like reachers, long-handled brushes, jar openers, and shower chairs can reduce the energy cost of daily tasks.
🛌 Improve Sleep Hygiene
Your OT can work with you to identify barriers to quality sleep and establish better evening routines.
🔄 Modify Your Environment
Make your home and workspace more energy-efficient by reducing the need to bend, reach, or walk long distances.
📋 Use Routines and Visual Aids
Reduce mental fatigue by setting structured routines and using visual schedules or reminders.
🧠 Be Kind to Yourself
Fatigue is real, and you’re not lazy. Learning to work with your energy levels—not against them—can improve confidence and mental health.
What Does an OT Energy Conservation Session Involve?
At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our occupational therapists work with you one-on-one to:
Understand your daily routine and energy patterns
Identify triggers of fatigue and barriers to participation
Provide education and training on the 4 P’s and task modification
Recommend tools or equipment to support function
Collaborate with other professionals (e.g. physios or GPs) to manage health wholistically
Sessions are tailored to each person’s needs—whether you’re a working adult, a parent with chronic illness, or a teen recovering from an injury.
Take Control of Your Day with OT Support
You don’t need to live in survival mode. With occupational therapy, you can find a new rhythm—one that protects your energy while still allowing you to participate in the things that matter most.
If fatigue is interfering with your work, parenting, social life, or self-care, we can help.
We offer in-clinic or telehealth options, depending on your needs.
