Laugh It Up
There are lots of ways to recharge our batteries on a daily basis. Laughing, for instance, can actually make you feel better mentally and physically. Laughter is the ultimate energizer, as it increases circulation and 'happy hormones' (endorphins) throughout your body.
Stamp Out Stress
While some stress is normal, prolonged stress can leave you mentally and physically exhausted. Stress is a major energy drain. If stress is weighing you down, take time to deal with and minimize it. Some stress relievers: Working out, meditation, reading or hanging out with friends.
Drink More Water
Staying hydrated is a must to keep your energy sky-high. The body is around 80 percent water; all biochemical reactions happen in water. If you're not getting enough water, the body doesn't produce the energy it needs to function properly. The Institute of Medicine advises that men consume roughly 3 liters (about 13 cups) of total beverages daily, while women should get 2.2 liters (about 9 cups). So be sure to drink water throughout the day.
Boost Your B
Certain vitamins and minerals can impact your energy levels. When low in vitamin B, it can affect your metabolism and fatigue levels. B vitamins include B6, B12, folate, thiamin and niacin. To ensure you're maximizing your intake, eat B-rich foods, such as lentils, beans, asparagus, broccoli, spinach, whole grains and fish. These foods are also chock full of other healthy vitamins, minerals and "good" fats such as omega-3s.
Get Your ZZZs
Sleep is essential to ensure you're well rested and better able to concentrate throughout the day, but many of us don't get enough. Get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. A lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, lethargy and moodiness. Go to bed at the same time each night and 'chill' for the 2 hours before bed. And keep the room cool.
Ward Off the Worrywart
Worrying about things, especially those which you have no control over, can suck your energy. To maximize energy levels, try to let go of worries.
Take a Vacation
Stress and leisure are inversely proportional: The less leisure time you build into your overall life, the more stress you'll experience -- and that translates into less energy. Take all the vacation time you're due.
Clear the Clutter
Believe it or not, having too much stuff, whether at home or at work, can exhaust your energy. Clearing away clutter may seem like too much work, but you need to learn how to do it effectively for your own benefit.
Soak Up the Sun
A little sunshine can make you feel more awake and improve your mood, which can boost energy. A lack of light, on the other hand, can contribute to seasonal affective disorder a kind of depression that leads to very low energy levels. So whether it's winter or summer, get 15 minutes of daily sunlight. Try going for a brisk walk in the sun, or at least get some sunshine on your face.
Start the Day With a Meal
Breakfast is a must to get your day (and energy levels) off to the right start. It helps maintain blood sugar levels and provides the fuel required for the rest of the day. It should be 350 to 500 calories and have lots of fiber, protein and calcium to start the metabolic fire for the day. Some powerhouse breakfast options: Oatmeal with fruit, egg white omelet with veggies on whole-wheat toast or yogurt with fruit and whole grain cereal.
Deflect Negativity
Notice how some people leave you feeling tired and drained? It's easy to absorb the energy of others, so it's vital to avoid those who are overly negative. If that energy is not yours, don’t take it on! If you are feeling negative, try to shift your thinking and look on the positive side.
Take a Work Break
How often do you get up from your desk during a workday? It's easy to go hours and hours without noticing how long you've been plugging away. But these countless hours sitting and working can sap your energy, so be sure to make time for regular breaks. Take a trip to the water cooler, talk to a colleague or even go for a short walk. Another idea? Take a break from the computer and bend forward. This helps increase circulation to the brain while giving it a much needed break and some vital energy.
Get Your Thyroid Checked
If your energy-boosting attempts have proved futile, and you always feel sluggish, it may be time to get your thyroid checked. Part of the thyroid’s job is to make hormones that regulate your metabolism -- a major factor in getting energy. If it’s under producing, it often leads to hypothyroidism. When you have hypothyroidism, some of the body’s functions slow down,
causing symptoms like fatigue and depression. The good news is it's easily treated; so get checked by your doctor just if you have these symptoms.
Get a Massage
Many forms of massage have been shown to help relieve stress and boost energy overall. Some studies even suggest that multiple sessions of massage can reduce certain kinds of anxiety, depression and pain. So why not get a massage if you have time? It may provide just the boost you need.
