Never-Ending Energy

Everyone has days fueled solely by caffeine and the adrenaline rush of a jam-packed schedule. They’re unavoidable. But, if coffee is your go-to energy boost, try some healthier ways to power through your day.

Get Up With the Chickens

Even if you’re not the perkiest of morning people, you can still get energy flowing early in the a.m.

• Move it. One study showed that 20 minutes of low-intensity exercise at least three days a week boosted energy levels by 20% and decreased fatigue by 65%. It’s worth a try.
• Put your coffee on the back burner. Delaying your morning java may be going to the extreme. Yet, studies show that stress hormones, which are also natural stimulants, are highest in the morning. Postponing your morning coffee habit for two hours after you wake up gives these hormones time to simmer down. Drinking coffee for an energy boost when you don’t need it can make your body more caffeine-dependent.
• Take a cold shower. Not really. But, after you’re shiny and clean, blast the cold water for several seconds for a quick mood-booster.

Slog Through the 3 p.m. Slump

If you struggle to stay awake during a long afternoon at work, you either need more to do (just kidding), or some fresh ways to refresh yourself.

• Light it up. A fun desk lamp with a bright light can do wonders for your energy level. So can taking a short break outside.
• Make your list. Get in the habit of making your to-do list right after lunch instead of at bedtime, when your brain needs rest.
• Remain upright. Sitting up straight can boost your mood and your energy level. Plus, it’s harder to nod off if you’re practicing proper posture.
• Take deep breaths. Breathe in through your nose, and out through your mouth. It’s a quick and easy way to get oxygen flowing to your brain.

Hit Snooze

Winding down at the end of the day restores your energy level so you can get up with the chickens tomorrow.

• Meditate. Start with five minutes each night and increase it as you get more into the practice.
• Sleep it off. If you consistently wake up right before your alarm goes off, congratulations. You’ve found your ideal bedtime. But, if your alarm jolts you awake most mornings, you might need more sleep. Back up your bedtime by 15 minutes each night until you’re waking up right before the alarm most mornings.
• Stretch. Lengthen and relax tight, tense muscles in your back, sides and chest. The supine spinal twist yoga pose stretches all three and feels oh so good. Here’s how:
  • Lie on your back with your arms out to your sides, palms down, creating the letter T.
  • Bend your right knee and place the right foot on the left knee.
  • Exhale and drop the right knee over to the left side of your body, twisting the spine and low back. Keep your upper back flat on the floor. Hold for several seconds.
  • Repeat using your other knee.
• Unplug. Reading negative news and gloomy weather reports right before bedtime can contribute to tossing and turning. Shut off all devices at least 30 minutes before lights out.