• Regular activity is important
• Activity makes you more limber and increases your muscle strength
• Choose an activity you like
• There are no specific activities that you can or cannot do
• Walking is an easy activity to start with
• With any activity go slow at first
• Wait at least one hour after eating
• At the end of the activity you should be tired but not exhausted. You should feel rested in 5 or 10 minutes.

When to Stop

• If you have a fast or racing heart beat
• If you become more short of breath
• If you become tired or weak
• If you become lightheaded or dizzy
• If you become sweaty
• If you start having chest pain

Save Your Energy

• Rest is important
• Rest when needed and go about your activities slowly
• Try to do your activities in the part of the day when you have the most energy
• Ask for help from your family or friends

Sex

• If this is a problem and you have concerns please let us know
• It may be helpful to try a position which avoids using your arms too much
• Plan a time when you are rested
• Talk to your partner about your feelings

Taking Care of Yourself

• Avoid smoking. If you smoke and need help quitting, let us know.
• Take your medications as prescribed.
• Learn your symptoms and what they are telling you.
• Learn to manage stress.
• Avoid very hot or cold weather.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Maintain a healthy weight.