Everyone gets tired now and then, but some people face fatigue on a daily basis. If you find yourself constantly low on energy with no real explanation, reading up on the following tips can provide you with ideas to shake you out of exhaustion and boost your morale.
1. Get Rest
The obvious first step to feeling more rested and energized is to get more sleep. Sleep is crucial to your body’s ability to function, so besides feeling better throughout the day it is truly essential for your wellbeing, as highlighted by Harvard Health. Most adults should be shooting for an average of seven to nine hours a night, but if this doesn’t feel achievable for you, consider working power naps into the day as available in your schedule.
2. Antioxidants
According to WebMD, antioxidants are nutrients that help your body fight off damaging compounds known as free radicals. By optimizing your health, they are able to reduce fatigue that is associated with free radical damage. Antioxidants come in a variety of forms, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc, as well as many others. Eating a varied diet rich in fruits and veggies and taking an antioxidant supplement can help you to maintain your wellness.
3. Caffeine
Caffeine can get a bad rap due to people’s tendencies to over consume it, but it is not inherently bad for you, as summarized by Healthline. Drinking a cup or two of coffee or tea in the morning can help kick-start your day and provide the boost of energy you need to get started. However, be careful not to drink it too close to when you typically go to bed, or it can prevent you from falling asleep, which will in turn only make you more tired come morning.
4. Exercise
Though it sounds counterproductive, working exercise into your day can actually energize you, rather than tire you out. Running and performing cardio supports energy levels by circulating oxygen throughout the body. If you feel too tired for something vigorous like a jog, try something like yoga that is focused on breath and mindful movement. Releasing tension in your body through stretching can work to both relax you and energize you through the release of endorphins.
5. Hobbies
When you feel like you’re hitting a slump in the day, take some time to do something that you feel passionate about. Whatever your hobby is, from reading to swimming, it is important to set aside space in your schedule to do the things you love. Work and obligations can feel like a natural energy drainer, especially if you are repeating the same tasks day in and day out. Mixing up your routine and incorporating time for yourself can break you of the monotony, leaving you feeling refreshed.
6. Visit Friends
Sometimes all you need is to be around people that you love. Spending time with people that are naturally upbeat and enthusiastic can rub off on you, making you mirror their energy. Plan a day or weekend with some of your closest friends, especially those that are inclined to be more jovial. After spending time with them, check-in and see how you feel. If the time leaves you feeling better, plan to spend even more with these types of people.
7. Talk to Your Doctor
If you have tried many different things without any success, it may be time to consult a doctor. It could be the result of a virus, or it may require some simple life changes, such as drinking more water and improving your diet, but the safest bet is to talk to a professional. Dietary changes and intolerances can also be supported with the help of a nutritionist.
When it comes to energy, you want to have enough to make it through the day and some leftover to fully enjoy it. If you are constantly lacking energy, try incorporating some of the strategies above into your routine.