How To Get More Energy – Some Simple Lifestyle Adjustments

by Aviva Natural Health Solutions May 12, 2010

Jennifer Scott

Wouldn't you just love to hop out of bed, full of energy, every day? Unfortunately, this isn't reality for many of us. In fact, after a couple of strong cups of coffee and a hot shower, you might feel just about as energetic as you're going to feel all day, and by the time evening rolls around, you're probably ready to flop on the couch and vegetate until bedtime. If you're often sluggish and it feels like you're dragging yourself through the day, you may be able to recharge your batteries and feel more energetic just by making some simple lifestyle adjustments.

Get Enough Rest

On average, most folks need between seven and nine hours of sleep every night in order to function at their best; however, many people today suffer from chronic sleep deprivation. To combat this, establish a regular sleep schedule. Train yourself to get to bed at about the same time every night, and set the clock to wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Do something relaxing before bedtime each evening; rather than watching television or surfing the internet, read a relaxing book or take a quiet, warm bath. Keep your bedroom at a comfortable, even temperature throughout the year.

Eat Right

Don't eat anything close to bedtime. Consuming frequent, small meals throughout the day of colourful vegetables, fresh fruits, grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats will help keep blood sugar levels stable and help prevent sluggishness. Don't skip breakfast, and eat some lean protein at each meal. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily (more if it's hot outside), and finish well before bedtime to minimize sleep-disruptive bathroom visits. Consume caffeine and alcohol in moderation, if at all. Both are notorious for disrupting sleep, and should be avoided altogether near bedtime.

Exercise Regularly

Although many of us are very busy with work and chores throughout the day, most people aren't getting enough daily heart-pumping exercise and physical activity. This prevents our bodies from naturally releasing excess tension and stress. Moderate daily exercise has also been proven to help people fall asleep faster and deepen sleep. Just make sure you don't exercise too close to bedtime, or the stimulating effect will make falling asleep even more difficult.

See Your Doctor If You're Still Tired

If you're doing all these things right, and you're still not feeling energetic, see your doctor to rule out an underlying medical condition. Your doctor may be able to pinpoint a specific issue that will need to be addressed in order to feel your best. While everyone has sluggish days now and then, it's not normal to regularly feel like you don't have enough energy just to make it through the day.

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