One of the most common complaints you’ll hear from people today is that they lack energy. You’re probably no stranger to this: Do days when you were just too tired to get out of bed in the morning come to mind?
This kind of fatigue can really get you down, especially since you can get so used to feeling drained all the time that you may not realize there’s something wrong — aside from a constant craving for sugar and caffeine. This can really get in the way of a healthy lifestyle.
It’s time to put down the coffee and energy drinks, and try these 5 easy ways to boost energy naturally.
Exercise regularly
The idea of exercising when you’re feeling worn-out may seem alarming, but it’s actually one of the best ways to get energized. Physical activity gets your heart pumping and wakes up your body, triggering the release of hormones that perk you up and make you happy.
A 10-minute walk around the block or a gentle bike ride can boost your energy for up to several hours afterward. You can work your way up to more regular workouts — and higher energy levels — from there.
Energizing Eating Habits
Your eating habits have a huge effect on your energy levels. Simply making sure that you start the day right with a healthy breakfast and not skipping meals throughout the day will make a noticeable difference.
If you’re still feeling run-down, try adding magnesium to your diet with nuts and almonds. It’s also a good idea to stop for a power snack during the day, but stay away from sugary nibbles and energy bars. Have something that has protein, fiber, and little bit of fat, like peanut butter on whole wheat toast or yogurt with organic muesli. This will give you energy that lasts instead of setting you up for a sugar crash later on.
Drink Plenty of Water
Dehydration is one of the most severe forms of physical stress, and it shouldn’t come as a surprise that you feel sluggish if you don’t drink plenty of water. This is a problem for people who rely on coffee or energy drinks as pick-me-ups, since they often let the caffeinated beverages take the place of water. Get your energy back by making sure that you drink at least 2 liters or 2 quarts of water each day.
Power Naps
If you just can’t keep your eyes open, the best course of action is to take a break and have a power nap. You’ll wake up feeling refreshed, and you’ll also find that your focus improves after a little lie-down. Napping for about an hour will give you a much-needed energy boost without messing up your nightly sleep schedule.
Reducing Stress
You expend a lot of energy if you have to deal with stressful situations. Fear, frustration, and anger are all exhausting emotions that leave you feeling mentally and physically drained, so it’s a good idea to reduce the stress you experience.
Learning relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, is one of the best ways to deal with stress that can’t be avoided, but any activity you find soothing will work wonders. Taking time to read a favorite book, indulge in a hobby, or be with your loved ones can restore your peace and energy.
If you practice these habits, you’ll soon be a happier, more energetic person, even if you forego your morning cup of coffee!
Don’t forget to download my FREE recipe book, Amy’s Home Kitchen” for easy, delicious and healthy recipes to increase energy levels. Or connect with me on Facebook or Google+ for more healthy tips, tricks, and recipes.
And if you are serious about detoxing, living a healthy, balanced lifestyle and/or losing weight to improve your health without the need to count calories or feel hungry, click here
References:
http://www.webmd.com/women/features/10-energy-boosters
http://www.rd.com/slideshows/lack-of-energy-natural-energy-boosters/view-all/
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20559973,00.html
