If you find yourself in the middle of the dreaded mid-afternoon slump, struggling to stay alert and focused throughout the day or you are just feeling exhausted then put down that coffee, energy drink or sugary snack and try these inexpensive things you can do to enhance your body’s own natural energy levels.
The most common cause of fatigue is dehydration, which can also cause mental fogginess, impaired short-term memory and dizziness. It has been shown that water can enhance performance levels. Make sure you drink at least 6-8 glasses of water throughout the day to keep hydrated, but especially when you start feeling fatigued to help you fight against low energy levels.
Get moving. Getting some exercise might seem as the wrong thing to when you are already feeling exhausted, but exercise is great for increasing your energy levels. 20-30 minutes of exercise per day is enough to make you feel energized. Keep it simple, if you are unable to go to the gym then try a brisk walk outside. Getting exercise will also help you sleep better, which will make you feel well rested in the morning and improve productivity.
The body needs fuel to function and without food our energy levels and mood can quickly spiral downhill. By eating regular healthy meals and snacks during the day you can improve your cognitive functioning and provide your body with sustained energy throughout the day. Aim to eat the right food combos for maximum energy: fruit or vegetable + whole grain + lean protein + plant based fat + herb/ spice (optional).
Stand up and take a few deep breaths. Shifting your posture or standing up and walking around for a few minutes can immediately kickstart your heart and muscles, instantly providing you with energy and improve productivity when you sit again. Deep breathing from your diaphragm gets blood pumping and may help boost energy all day long. Try this: sit with your spine straight and your eyes closed. Stay focused on your breathing and slowly inhale to a count of 6. Hold your breath for 3 counts and tense all the muscles in your body. Slowly exhale for 6 counts and slowly relax your tensing muscles. Hold the breath out for 3 counts, before you start breathing in again. Repeat.
Try these 4 things to naturally energize your body when you feel you need to reach for an energy shot to get you through the day.