Do you feel tired all the time? Many people do. Most of the time, tiredness can be attributed to one or more of your habits or routines, which may include physical exertion, poor eating, emotional stress, boredom or lack of sleep. Feeling tired is your body’s way of letting you know something isn’t right. If this sounds like you, here are five tips to help you bounce back and enhance your energy:
Make sleep a priority
Sleep is vital for the reparation and restoration of your body and mind, and is the first thing to assess if you find that you’re often tired. Ensure that you’re getting a good night’s sleep by taking steps to set up a regular sleep routine, such as dimming the lights one hour before bedtime, keeping your room dark and cool, and timing your meals for optimal digestion.
Reduce your stress levels
Not only does stress sap your energy, but it also puts your mind into overdrive. Practising stress reduction strategies, such as breathing deeply, closing your eyes and clearing your mind, and practising yoga or meditation are perfect ways to get on top of stress and anxiety.
Get moving
Exercise is known for boosting energy and reviving the mind. Studies show that it can increase energy levels too, even among people suffering from chronic medical conditions associated with fatigue, such as cancer and heart disease. So, let off some steam and refresh your body and mind all at the same time by going for a long, relaxing walk, a hike in the hills, a swim or a round of tennis. Find out how much exercise is enough.
Take time for yourself
If you’re constantly giving your time away to others, you might not have much left for yourself. It’s vital to have ‘me time’ to do the things you love, not only to stay rested, but also for your emotional wellbeing. Try giving yourself half a day to indulge in something relaxing, such as reading a book, watching a movie, or soaking in a hot bath. If you’re the type who feels guilty doing things for yourself, try to remember that your own enjoyment is as important as your commitments to others. If your cup isn’t full, you can’t give more of yourself to others.
Feed your body and your brain
Eating clean means reducing the amount of processed foods you eat, such as refined sugar and trans fats. Processed foods will give you an immediate energy boost, but will soon sap your stamina and your spirit with a crash. Instead, eat plenty of fresh, wholesome foods, including fruit, vegetables, nuts and unsweetened dairy – though, that doesn’t mean you need to deny yourself the sweeter things in life, as these play an important role in helping you enjoy yourself. You can choose your sweet treats wisely too, though.
Related articles:
10 ways to reclaim your energy
Five tips to get enough sleep
Snoozing: not just for the tired
