Items that help me

These are some of the things I use to conserve energy.

On days when I can't manage a shower but can brush my hair, I depend on dry shampoo. I have oily hair and used to use this just to add a little volume to my hair. Now I use it throughout the week to avoid looking like a greasy mess. Chronic illness doesn't mean you lose all of your vanity.

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These days I try to shower once a week. When you have a normal energy level, showering isn't a big deal. When you have M.E. it can feel like an Impossible Task. So I got this very unglamorous shower seat from Kmart. It isn't pretty but it does the job. My heart rate used to go into the cardio zone when I showered, a sure sign that I was wasting too much energy. Now my hr stays under 100 when I'm seated in the shower.

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After spending energy in the shower, even if I was seated, I tend to be tired and unsteady afterward. Numerous people in my M.E. Facebook groups recommended towelling robes, so I bought one from Sheridan Outlet. Out of the shower and into my robe, no more dancing around to towel myself dry. I also got a water absorbing turban to help dry my hair. I don't even squeeze water out of my wet hair anymore, I just put the turban on and sit around in my robe. Let me tell you, there is something luxurious about sitting in my recliner in my fluffy robe and slippers.

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My favourite thing in my bathroom right now is my chair. Again, it isn't pretty but it's definitely helpful. I sit down when I brush my teeth. I sit down when I moisturise. If I feel up to styling my hair, I do it while seated. You can get a fancy chair, you can get a disability chair like I have (I wanted mine to have a back and arms for the sake of steadiness), and you can usually find them second-hand for under $25.

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Finally, my $35 hot air styler from Kmart. On days when I'm able, I like to put some effort into how I look because it boosts my spirits. This weighs less than my old hair dryer even though it's pretty big, and it's so easy to use. My hair is chin length and this dries and styles in minutes. It may not work as well or quickly on longer hair.

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All of the items shown were bought by myself, I have no brand affiliations. These are just some of the things I use to help me conserve energy.