Twelve Energy Boosters

Do you feel yourself pooping out halfway through the day? I know I do!

Here are 12 great tips for giving yourself that much needed 'burst' of energy to get you through.

1. Exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking three or four times a week will dramatically increase your energy. The exercise might tire you out at first, but in a short time you’ll feel your fatigue melt away.

2. Decrease caffeine & sugar. Their energy bursts are only temporary. The crash they cause afterwards will leave you more tired than before.

3. Increase fruits and veggies. This — combined with the above decrease — will not only zip up your energy, but you might notice you’re in a better mood.

4. Get enough sleep. The amount needed varies from person to person, so
it’s up to you to figure out your optimum hours of sleep. Not too much, but enough to leave you refreshed.

5. Consider power naps (if possible). They can either revive you or leave you feeling more exhausted. Like searching for the ideal amount of sleep you need (above) this is something only you can figure out.

6. Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make you feel slow and sluggish. If you drink any caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea or soda) you will be more dehydrated so make certain to drink plenty of water afterwards.

7. Do something fun!

8. Take breaks. Any break can energize you from a 5 minute mid-morning break stepping outside & breathing fresh air; to eating lunch away from your desk; to setting aside a weekend day as a Re-creation Day Free of Work; or to a two week trip away from home.

9. Eat a mid-morning or mid-afternoon energizer. Instead of sugar or caffeine, try a handful of nuts (providing protein and omega-3) or an apple with low-fat yogurt or low-fat cheese.

10. Fresh air. Whether it’s stepping outside for a few minutes or a 2-mile walk, you will find fresh air clears your head and perks you up. Without fail.

11. Consider learning some yoga. The deep breathing, stretching, and twisting soothe tired muscles, increase oxygen intake, improve circulation and aid digestion, all of which will help you feel energized and give you a sense of well-being.

12. Eat a variety of foods. To eat only one certain kind of food will prevent your getting the amount of vitamins and minerals you need for optimum health. For example, a diet of mostly carbohydrates tends to lack potassium and magnesium which are energy boosters.

Rita Emmett
Author of The Procrastinator's Handbook,
The Clutter-Busting Handbook
and MANAGE YOUR TIME TO REDUCE YOUR STRESS:
A Handbook for the Overworked, Overscheduled and Overwhelmed
www.ritaemmett.com

Posted February 6, 2009, filed in It's That Time, Living Simply, Less is More