Sedentary modern lifestyles leave many of us feeling lethargic and dull, but there are plenty of things you can do to bring the bounce back into your step.
1. It’s About Time
The length of time between when we fall asleep and when we rise is important for having enough energy to get through the day. If you’re regularly hitting the snooze button in the morning, it’s a sign you’re not getting enough sleep. Ensuring you get around eight hours of uninterrupted nighttime slumber is paramount to waking up refreshed and ready for action.
2. Getting Physical
Aerobic exercise increases energy levels by stimulating your body to burn fat rather than sugar for fuel. Working out at a moderate intensity for 45 minutes three times per week is ideal.
3. Sip Of Green Tea
Eleuthero, more commonly known as Siberian ginseng, is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress and has even been shown to increase energy levels. Look for supplements rich in eleuthero, or take advantage of the plant’s natural presence in green tea.
4. Berry Good
A growing body of evidence suggests that anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant found in berries, positively affect energy levels. Try having a handful as a snack or include them in breakfast smoothies and cereals. The addition of fruit or vegetables to your diet has also been shown to significantly boost energy levels and should be a regular part of every meal.
5. Chill Out
One of the easiest ways to increase your energy level is simply through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, guided imagery, or meditation. If you take a moment to consciously relax each day, it can help improve your mood and significantly increase your energy levels.
6. Get Moving
Even if you’re not working out, making sure you take 10,000 steps per day is essential for giving your body the chance to release endorphins that help improve energy levels and mood. Physical activity also makes it easier to fall asleep at night, so you can be well-rested before hitting the dance floor again.
7. Get Some Sun
Vitamin D boosts energy levels by promoting the absorption of energy-giving minerals such as calcium and magnesium from food, which means you need to expose yourself to direct sunlight for at least 20 minutes per day. If you can’t get out into the sun, consider taking a vitamin D supplement instead.
If you’re still feeling lethargic, there might be an underlying cause.
Do you have a medical condition such as diabetes that impacts your energy levels? Are your hormones out of balance? Do you suffer from adrenal fatigue or thyroid problems?
It’s important to consult with a qualified physician and get tested so you can discover the cause of your problem.
Good luck!
Unexplained fatigue is a common complaint among patients, and up to 80 percent of those affected are women.
The first step for those experiencing unexplained, persistent tiredness should be to consult their doctor as it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as diabetes or thyroid disease.
Once you have been given the all-clear from your physician, there are steps you can take to boost your energy levels, including eating more fruits and veggies, drinking green tea, having a good night’s sleep, and getting a workout.