Energy

If you are like me, your go-to energy booster is coffee. However, this does not always work and is not always the best way to get more energy.

`There are four avenues through which you can boost energy: moving, resting, lifestyle, and diet.

The first way to get more energy is to move. If you need a quick mental energy boost, take a quick stroll.

In order to improve energy altogether, ensure that you are exercising for at least 30 minutes four times per week (or more!). The reason exercising boosts energy is that it supports good sleep and aids with body functioning.

The next way to increase energy is to allow your body the chance to restore and relax. You have heard it before: make sure you are getting enough sleep every night.

If you need a quick boost during the day, take a power nap which can be as short as 20-30 minutes.

Stress drains energy from your body and mind very quickly and over time stress is very detrimental.

If you want more energy, put dealing with mental stress before everything else. Other actions to incorporate into your life to increase energy are meditating, trying aromatherapy (peppermint, orange, and lavender), listening to music, and hanging out with friends.

One of the most powerful ways you can give yourself more energy is through diet. Eat a balanced diet and do not skip meals.

Instead of high-sugar foods, it is better to eat good quality carbs such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruit so that the initial burst of energy from sugar does not turn to fatigue after a drop in blood sugar.

Caffeine in adequate amounts can boost energy, but too much works the body’s energy system too hard resulting in worse fatigue later.

Another way the diet can give the body energy is through supplements. Adaptogens which are found in certain herbs regulate the adrenals and hormones.

Important vitamins vital to having energy include vitamin D and all the vitamin Bs. If your body is not getting all the nutrients it needs, it is going to have to work harder to function thus making you more exhausted.

Other more serious possible reasons for fatigue include: thyroid issues, inadequate adrenal functioning, digestive problems (such as food sensitivities, Crohn’s, IBS, IBD), infection, inflammation, pain, and mental illness. For these conditions, it is important to get help from a doctor.

Ultimately, the key to energy is taking care of the body and mind.