Everyone would like to feel more energetic during the day. You
naturally go through periods of higher activity which contrasts
with times of relaxation. The problem occurs when more energy
and concentration is required than we can give. Or when we try
to sleep and can't. Follow these invaluable tips to a new you!
1) Stay on a regular sleep schedule. You can't stay up late
during the week-end and suddenly on Monday morning wake up
refreshed. If you do enjoy later nights on Friday and Saturday
vow to get to bed early on Sunday to wake up rested.
2) Avoid the sugar and caffeine roller coaster. Eat some protein
and foods with a bit of fat in the morning. The brain needs
protein and the body does not store it. You don't have to eat
very much- a glass of low fat milk, a piece of cheese, or a
handful of nuts will get you going instead of pure carbohydrates
like a plain bagel.
3) Take a 5-10 minute power nap around lunch. Even if you just
close your eyes and let your mind drift you will be refreshed
for the afternoon. This is also effective anytime you feel
yourself not concentrating, reading the same material over and
over. Give in to the urge and completely relax for a few moments.
4) Drink more water and liquids. I know, everyone says to drink
more fluids. But most Americans are in a constant state of
dehydration from filling up on coffee, tea, and sodas with
caffeine. This is very stressful to the kidneys and can cause
irritation to the bladder. Keep a sports bottle filled with your
favorite flavored water or just plain and keep it with you at
all times. Set a goal- empty by lunch, refill, empty again by
the time work is over. Carry plenty of water in the car too for
you and your family.
5) Exercise regularly. This is easier said than done with a busy
schedule. A poor conditioning level causes you to be
short-of-breath and your heart to race when just doing simple
things like climbing a flight of steps or doing household
chores. Park farther away when shopping and walk Dust off that
exercise machine or get an exercise tape to play when weather is
bad. Set an example for the rest of your family and maybe they
will join in too!
6) A joke a day keeps the doctor away. Seriously, laughter has
many beneficial effects on the body. The brain chemicals for
experiencing pleasure, happiness, and peace increase with good,
hearty laughs. Live alone? Get a funny movie or watch a
light-hearted comedy on tv. Nothing sarcastic or put-down,
however.
7) Avoid confrontations and situations with negative people. You
know who they are. They are not going to change but they will
bring you and your mood down. The complainers, gossipers, and
generally unhappy souls we all have to deal with on a day-to-day
basis drain our energy if we allow them. Be polite but avoid
arguing or getting hooked into listening to their constant
problems.
8) Take regular, daily supplements of the highest quality. Our
food and diets simply do not meet the amounts needed for maximum
health. There is a difference between avoiding nutritional
deficiencies and optimum performance.
About the author:
Author: Katherine A Martin, D.O. - Board Certified Family
Practice Physician. Medical Coaching and Consulting. Health for
the whole person. Visit my web site at
http://www.DO-Medicine.com