6 Simple Ways to Gain More Energy
If you’re like most women, you probably have a never-ending to-do list that just seems to keep growing, no matter how productive you try to be. Our busy lifestyles can take a toll—chronic fatigue is a common issue among women in this day and age. Fortunately, by striving for balance (hey, I said striving!) and prioritizing our health, we can banish fatigue and gain the energy we need to tackle those to-dos. Here are 6 ways to live a more energized life.
Eat Energy-Boosting Foods
No, don’t reach for a candy bar—sugar can definitely give you a quick boost, but you’ll pay for it in the form of a sugar crash later. For instant energy that lasts, eat a healthy snack containing both protein and a complex carbohydrate. Peanut butter on whole wheat toast is a great choice. Or, try a handful of nuts and a piece of fruit. The carbohydrates offer a quick recharge, while the protein gives you lasting energy.
Also, be sure to never, ever skip breakfast. There’s a reason it’s called the most important meal of the day! Starting your day off with complex carbs for instant energy and high-quality protein that keeps you going is one of the most important ways to fight fatigue
Get Quality Rest
If you’re not getting the quality sleep you need at night, it’s no wonder you’re fatigued during the day. Most experts suggest 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, but some women might need more, especially during pregnancy or when fighting an illness. Just as important as the amount of sleep, though, is the quality of rest you’re getting. Establish a calming nighttime routine and make your bedroom a sanctuary for peaceful rest.
Get Moving
Exercise is a really effective energy booster—in fact, I find it just as effective as a snack! Even simply walking for 10 minutes can effectively recharge you. Plus, who couldn’t use more exercise?
Take a Mini-Meditation Retreat
You don’t have to bust out the candles or recite mantras to reap the energy-boosting benefits of meditation. Simply closing your eyes for a couple of minutes and taking deep, slow breaths can be incredibly refreshing. Try to clear your mind and just focus on your breath.
Manage Stress
You may have heard the expression, “S/he sucks the life right out of me!” Guess what? It’s not too far from the truth. Spending excessive time with people who are negative, demanding, uncooperative or just plain “drama queens” really can add a significant amount of stress to your life—enough to literally drain your energy levels.
It’s not just negative people that can drain your energy either. Stress in general is a huge contributor to fatigue. Is life all work and no play? Try to add a little enjoyment and see how your energy improves.
Also Read: Three Ways To Avoid Spinal Cord Injuries
Eliminate Toxins
Some of the foods we eat are loaded with junk that completely drains our energy. Eating whole, fresh, organic foods is the best way to avoid ingesting these toxins. Another place to look at our exposure to toxins is in our personal care products—products we use every day are loaded with toxic chemicals that are known to cause health issues, and you can bet that chronic fatigue is among them.
Fortunately, there are natural alternatives for all different kinds of products—alternatives that don’t have junk ingredients that will zap your energy. You can find everything from natural lip gloss to the best anti-aging skin care products is crucial. Choosing natural products is so important because up to 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our bloodstream.