One-third of healthy individuals complain of being tired on a regular basis. In some cases, it’s attributed to lack of sleep, while others claim stress leaves them feeling mentally and physically exhausted. But what’s the best way to get that much-needed boost of energy when there doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day? Most people reach for coffee and energy drinks when they hit that afternoon slump. Keep reading to discover other natural ways to boost energy levels and lead a more focused and productive life!
1. More Magnesium
One of the leading causes of exhaustion and fatigue is lack of proper nutrients. If you’re feeling unusually sluggish, it’s time to take a close look at your diet. And the best place to start is your magnesium intake. Magnesium plays a more important role in daily function than most people realize. Responsible for more than 300 functions throughout your body, even a slight magnesium deficiency can have a big impact on energy levels. Other side effects of too little magnesium in your diet include trouble breathing and increased heart rate. The good news is, getting your daily dose of this super nutrient is easier than you think. Certain nuts (including almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts) are an efficient (and tasty) way of incorporating magnesium into your diet. Other food sources include fish and whole grains. Not only will you feel more energized, but also lighter on your feet, since all of these foods promote weight loss!
2. Get Outside
If you ever needed an excuse to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, here it is! Not only does the sun pack essential vitamin D, but getting fresh air is proven to boost energy levels and leave you feeling both energized and more positive. If you want to get the most out of your time in nature, try taking a walk or a hike. Studies show that walking is one of the best ways to put a little pep in your step and breathe new life into your day. Try taking a stroll around your office building during your lunch break or a walk around the block after dinner. Boost energy and burn calories – all at the same time.
3. Exercise
But walking isn’t the only form of exercise proven to give you that newfound energy you’ve been searching for. Exercise, in general, is attributed to more energy and increased mood. This is due in part to the endorphins (feel good chemicals) released during exercise. Not only that, but exercise also helps to improve circulation and cardiovascular health. This increased blood flow, along with boosted oxygen levels, gives your body energy to tackle your workout and the rest of your day! Try different activities before you find the one you enjoy best. Cardio kickboxing, Barre, yoga, and even swimming – all provide that boost of energy you’re looking for.
4. Caffeine Kick Start
An oldie but a goodie — caffeine is most people’s go-to energy boost. And it’s no surprise why. Not only is coffee readily available around the globe, but in small doses, caffeine is also a consistent and reliable source of much-needed energy. The science behind it is that caffeine increases the release of chemicals such as adrenaline into your body, through the sympathetic nervous system. Adrenaline sends more blood to your muscles, signals your liver to release sugar as energy into your bloodstream, and increases your heart rate. But coffee isn’t the only form of caffeine out there. Some teas and energy drinks are also great sources for this natural elixir. Looking for something to replace your average cup of Joe and increase your focus at the same time? Check out how bulletproof coffee can change your life!
5. Reduce Stress
Aside from lack of sleep, stress is the number one complaint of American adults. But what if you knew that high levels of stress might actually be causing your exhaustion? Mind blowing, isn’t it? The good news is, by fixing one problem, you may be able to remedy the other. Most people attribute sleepless nights to the inability to “turn their mind off”. Racing thoughts keep them awake at night. From those papers waiting on their desk at work to wondering if their child did their homework, stress prevents our bodies from entering the rested state of mind needed for sleep. Not only that, but stress can also have our minds racing all day long! The term “mentally exhausted” is a real thing! Just like physical strain like yard work or menial labor tires out your muscles, over thinking and constant stress can exhaust your brain, which is also a muscle! Try reducing stress through meditation, mindfulness, or eradicating stressors from your life. This might mean changing your group of friends or finding a new job. Whatever it is, your body and mind will thank you.
6. Talk to Your Doctor
When in doubt, talk to your doctor. Those dips in energy levels might be a sign of something more serious. Your doctor will first examine your diet, workload, activity level, and other lifestyle choices. They can tell a lot about your mental state by simply having you verbally run them through your day. What time do you wake up in the morning and go to bed each night? Is it the same time? If it’s not, it should be (or close to it). This is one way to promote healthy sleep habits. Your body likes routine. Going to bed and waking at the same time everyday helps you enter a healthy rhythm. Your doctor might also run several tests. A sleep test will indicate if you suffer from sleep apnea, a very serious and common sleep disorder that’s marked by interruptions in your breathing and excessive snoring. Blood tests will give your doctor a better idea of what’s going on inside your body. Blood tests will show if you have a thyroid issue or are anemic — two conditions that can cause excessive tiredness.
Are you walking through life like a zombie? Constantly falling asleep at your desk or struggling to get out of bed in the morning? If so, you’re not alone. Try a few of these natural remedies for discovering newfound energy and a zest for life.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
