How to Boost Energy Levels
With the fast pace of life that most of us lead, it's no wonder we often feel tired. Fortunately, there are many simple steps that can be taken to increase energy levels. If you have a new onset of fatigue, experience severe lack of energy or do not know why you are tired, consult with your health care provider so that illnesses may be ruled out.
Here are some of the best actions you can take to boost your energy.
1. Get Some Exercise
I know, it’s hard to exercise when you’re already tired. But participating in regular exercise is one of the most important steps you can take if you want to feel more alive and energetic.
Choose an activity you enjoy. Begin slowly; if you cannot commit to exercising for a large block of time, take a brisk walk for ten minutes, three times per day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Play ball with your children or dog. Try yoga — yoga has been proven to reduce pain, improve mood and boost energy levels.
Exercise raises your metabolic rate for several hours after you cease the activity. As well as helping to maintain a healthy weight, this makes you feel energized.
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2. Go Outside
Spending time outdoors can boost your energy level. You are more likely to engage in physical activities when you are outside, and simply being outdoors is especially invigorating on cool or breezy days. Spending time by the seashore or taking a hike is good for your energy level and will reduce levels of stress while elevating your mood.
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3. Get a Massage
Various types of massage techniques help to enhance energy levels. Do some research and learn about the different types of massage services available in your area. Massage can reduce stress levels while boosting energy levels. Better yet, exchange a massage with your partner.
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4. Indulge in Romance
Having sex is a form of physical exercise. In addition to the usual benefits exercise provides, having sex can enhance feelings of caring and belonging. These emotions are very healing. They can energize you and help make you want to take better care of your body. Planning a date can boost your mood and be energizing.
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5. Get Some Sleep
Most people do not get enough good quality sleep. Figure out how much sleep you need each night and take steps to ensure your bedroom is conducive to rest. Consider taking a nap when you are tired.
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6. Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine techniques have been used to optimize energy for thousands of years. They are used to remove energy blockages and restore optimal energy levels. These therapies work on subtle, yet powerful energies.
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7. Meditate
Many people are aware that meditation is relaxing. Did you know that meditation actually increases energy levels by reducing stress? If you have tried to meditate in the past and struggles, give it another shot — you may have been trying too hard. There are many simple meditation techniques you can easily learn. Meditation may be practiced anywhere. It is a free, easy way to take a break and boost your energy level.
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8. Get Together With Friends
Yes, it is easier to avoid making social commitments when you are tired. However, having a fun night out with your friends may be just what you need to feel more energetic. Dance the night away! Catch up on all of your friends’ latest news! Have fun! You know that once you get together with the gang you will enjoy yourself.
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9. Take a Look at Your Habits
Alcohol is a depressant. It can lower your energy levels. Smoking destroys vitamin C and other nutrients you need to stay well and feel lively. If you smoke, quit. If you drink alcohol, be sure that you are not consuming too much.
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10. Stay Hydrated
Are you drinking enough water? Alcoholic beverages and drinks that contain caffeine do not count. They promote fluid loss. To figure out how much water you should be drinking each day, divide your weight in pounds by two, and convert that number into ounces. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim to drink 75 ounces of water each day. Be sure to drink more if the weather is hot or dry, or if you engage in vigorous physical activity.
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11. Read Medication Labels
Many over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause drowsiness or contribute to fatigue. Read the product labels of any medications you take. Opt for medications labeled “for day time use" or “non-drowsy formula" when possible.
If you take diuretics to control high blood pressure, they may be depleting your body of nutrients and fluids. This can lead to a lack of energy. Sleeping pills, cold formulas, and medications that relieve anxiety or pain often produce energy draining side effects. If you think that a medication may be causing you to have less energy, talk with your health care provider.
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12. Eat Well
Eat a healthy, well balanced diet that contains ample fresh fruits and vegetables. Sugary foods may provide a quick pick-me-up, but the energy they supply does not last. Avoid consuming heavy, fatty meals and instead eat healthy portions of nutritious food. You may also want to add some spices to your foods. They can enhance your metabolism and provide delicious variety to your diet. Do not skip meals; experts recommend that breakfast be eaten daily.
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13. Limit Caffeine Intake
Limit your intake of caffeine. While caffeine is stimulating and can provide a great energy boost, overuse may lead to fatigue or interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep. Try drinking teas that are mildly stimulating instead of coffee. Green and black teas have less than half the amount of caffeine contained in a cup of coffee. Additionally, ginger and mint teas enhance energy levels without caffeine. Avoid drinking large amounts of espresso and gourmet coffee shop beverages, as they often contain extremely large amounts of caffeine.
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14. Examine Your Relationships and Lifestyle
Are the people in your life draining your energy? Are their expectations unreasonable? Do you need to set limits on their demands or even the frequency with which you interact with them? Do you expect too much from yourself?
Do you spend much of your day multitasking? Multitasking is not healthy. Do you take vacations? What do you do for you? Are there unresolved issues in your life you need to address? Do you hate your job?
Take a close look at the stressors in your life. Consider ways that you can reduce or eliminate them. Choose to put yourself first for a change. You may find that as you resolve the challenges in your lifestyle and relationships that you develop boundless energy and enjoy each day more.
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