Spend your energy 'pennies' wisely

Sometimes it helps to think of the amount of energy you have as pennies in a piggy bank. You need to prioritize tasks so that you won't run out of pennies before the day is done. Pace yourself and take frequent breaks to rest. This mindset is crucial on days when your symptoms flare.

Look at what's coming up on your calendar. Identify what's necessary and what's not. Focus your energy in the next few days on what's necessary. Prioritizing your tasks can help reduce your stress levels. People who are overly stressed often have tense muscles, which tend to amplify fibromyalgia pain.

Ask for help when you need it

Make a list of people who can help you on bad days. For instance, a family member may be willing to fix meals or run errands for a day. You may be reluctant to be a burden, but your friends and family love you and want to help.

Another option is to split chores up into smaller tasks that can be divided among everyone in the house. If everybody helps a little with cooking and cleanup of a meal, for example, no one person gets worn out.

Look for other community resources to help you complete necessary tasks when you're having a really difficult day. Short-term changes to try on a tough day might include online grocery shopping for pickup or delivery. Consider public transportation or ride-hailing for an easier, less stressful way of getting where you need to go. Or, recruit neighborhood kids to help with yardwork.

Find distractions

Identify activities that distract you from your symptoms. Examples include:

• Funny movies
• Quick-read books
• Outings with friends
• Favorite museums
• Beautiful walking paths

Relax

Set aside time for relaxation on your daily schedule. Add more relaxation time on days when your fibromyalgia symptoms flare. Relaxation techniques include:

• Deep-breathing exercises. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose to a count of six. Hold the air in your lungs for a count of one and then breathe out slowly through your mouth to a count of six.
• Progressive muscle relaxation. Tighten and then relax body parts one at a time, starting at either your head or your feet.
• Meditation. Focusing on the present moment, calmly and without anxiety, can help quiet your mind and relax your muscles.
• Visualization. Take an imaginary trip to a beautiful place. Use all your senses to experience the location as fully as possible. Feel the sun's warmth. Hear the birds.

You can also try yoga, prayer, massage, or listening to nature or other soothing sounds.