Most of us lead very busy lives. Working long hours and taking care of a home can be exhausting. Add children into the mix and it is no wonder that we can all feel sluggish, deflated, and a bit under the weather from time to time.
The good news is there are things that we can do to help feel re-energized and invigorated. Here are 5 ways to boost your energy levels and feel great.
Drink Lots of Water
Our bodies are made up of around 55% water which is why it's so essential that we drink an adequate daily amount. Dehydration can cause tiredness and irritability. With less water in your system, your blood volume reduces which means your heart has to work even harder to pump it around your body.
Your kidneys cannot get rid of toxins as effectively when dehydrated and it can also affect other internal organs too. It is recommended that the average adult drinks between 2 and 3 liters of water every day.
When we do, we feel far more alert and awake. You will notice that you sleep better, have more energy and your skin will look better too. Achy joints will feel better and you will feel invigorated. Many people use habit trackers to monitor and keep control of their daily water intake.
Take Up Running
Running is an amazing way to give you a boost. It's not only good for your fitness and energy levels but is known to provide positive effects on your mental health.
Many people assume that because they get out of breath quickly that running is not for them. However, if done properly, you can train your body to recover quicker each time you run.
Many people use a free app called Couch to 5k. It is a 9-week running program for all fitness levels. You run around 3 times a week and by the end of the course, you should be running for 5 kilometers or 30 minutes non-stop. If you do decide to start running it's a good idea to get a decent pair of shoes. They will help to protect your joints and muscles.
Many specialist running shops will carry out a gait analysis on your feet which will ensure that you are fitted with shoes that correctly support you. Once you start running you will find that you have far more energy, particularly the next day.
Book an IV Therapy Session
If you are feeling tired or lacking in energy, IV therapy may help. Several vitamins plus amino acids are administered intravenously. This type of therapy is very popular with athletes and exercise enthusiasts but can have just as much of an impact on those in need of an energy boost.
If your tiredness is a result of chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia, for example, alternative vitamins and minerals can be given.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting adequate sleep can give a much-needed energy boost. It is suggested that most adults need around 7-9 hours of sleep a night. If you are surviving on far less than that then it is little wonder that you are feeling tired.
If you find it difficult to get to sleep try to reduce your caffeine intake during the day and don't have any caffeine after around 6 pm. It can make us feel wide awake so it is best avoided at night time. Many people find that a good book can help them drift off to sleep.
If you don't like the idea of reading then why not try an audiobook? There are thousands to choose from online and your local library may have an audio section that you can download.
If you wake in the night to go to the toilet, for example, try and reduce your fluid intake before bed. Drinking alcohol can also disrupt sleep so it is best avoided.
Alter Your Diet
Feeling lethargic can often be attributed to one’s diet. Eating lots of refined carbs like sweets, sugary foods, and white bread can cause glucose levels to rise sharply and then fall quickly.
This can result in fatigue. Low glycaemic carbs such as yogurt, various fruits, nuts, and seeds release energy at a far more balanced rate. Proteins like fish, eggs, and turkey slow the release of glucose into the blood. Just remember 'that you are what you eat so eat well and stay healthy. You will have far more energy and will look and feel fabulous.