How's your energy level today?
Have you noticed changes in your energy levels over the past week? It's likely you have, and you're not alone. Though the most common suspect is usually a lack of sleep, that might not always be the case, since many factors can affect your energy.
Sleep is important, yes, but diet, stress levels and your surroundings also impact your energy levels. I recommend that you take an honest look at your current habits and see if there's anything you might need to change to make sure you're running at optimum efficiency. I practice Transcendental Meditation which was founded by Maharishi Yogi. It’s practiced 20 minutes twice daily, sitting comfortable with your eyes closed. It’s simple yet profound. The technique allows the activity of the mind to settle in a natural way until it is left quiet, yet wide awake. In other words you become aware. It allows stress and tiredness to be dissolved naturally, resulting in greater energy, clarity and enjoyment of life. There are TM centres spread around the globe.
- Sugar: Sure, a donut might give you a short-term boost of energy (and even put a smile on your face), but it can also cause a sugar crash later.
- Alcohol: Imbibe a little too much last night? Even if you're not hungover, your energy levels can still suffer the day after drinking, as alcohol throws off your sleep pattern.
- Smoking: Cigarettes can cause lung damage that makes it hard for your body to get enough oxygen. Without it, you're left feeling winded and exhausted.
- Being sedentary: It's natural to want to lounge around the house when you're tired. But getting up and moving is a great way to boost your energy, even though it might seem counterintuitive.
- Inconsistent sleep: If you're always going to bed and waking up at different times, your body has a hard time getting into a circadian rhythm, which can leave you feeling behind the eight ball all day.
- Health issues: Conditions like anemia, depression, hypothyroidism and fibromyalgia all come with feelings of fatigue. Check with your doctor if you're concerned your tiredness is due to a medical problem.
Six Things are Wrecking Your Energy Level
Here are some possible culprits if you're always feeling sluggish:
6 Ways to Stay Energized
There are many ways to fight fatigue and boost your energy, but here are some quick tips that will keep you from dragging:
Catch some rays: Get all Sheryl Crow, "Soak Up the Sun" and get some vitamin D. Just be sure to wear sunscreen and/or a protective hat and clothing to ensure you don't get too many rays.
Drink Water: Know what a flower does when it doesn't get enough water? Wilts. Your body needs water, too, to function at an optimal level.
Take a hike: OK, maybe not a hike (unless you want to!), but a brisk walk (bonus points if it's sunny outside) around the block when you're feeling fatigued can reinvigorate you, increasing blood flow and delivering oxygen to the body.
Snack smarter: Keep raw, unsalted nuts (like almonds or walnuts), berries on hand for snacking; they're full of fiber and protein to keep you fueled up.
Take five: Make sure you take quick breaks every few hours to clear your head and regain focus. This is especially important if you work a desk job and stare at a computer screen all day.
