All-natural energy boosters
How to fight fatigue without caffeine
It's no secret that many Americans rely on energy drinks, coffee and other caffeinated beverages to get them through the day. When consumed in moderation, caffeine is generally considered safe for adults, but the monster doses added to energy drinks may not be healthy. Also, little is known about the safety of other ingredients in energy drinks and other products marketed as energy boosters. If you're looking for a little pick-me-up, these all-natural energy boosters are a much safer bet.
Take a short walk
Experts at the Mayo Clinic suggest that a lack of energy is largely due to inactivity. Even small amounts of low-intensity exercise, like a daily walk or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can naturally boost your energy.
Enjoy a healthy snack
Simply put: To the human body, food = energy. A healthy midafternoon snack, such as a piece of fruit or handful of nuts, not only helps curb hunger and cravings, but the calories also give you a natural energy boost to ward off that late-afternoon slump.
Eat your breakfast
A helpful piece of advice doled out by moms and dads around the globe—"Eat your breakfast"—is just as applicable to adults as it is to children. While you sleep, your body is fasting, which means you wake up with your tank at zero. Refueling in the a.m. gives your brain and body the energy they need to perform at their best. And this isn't just a physical phenomenon; eating breakfast can also help you feel better mentally throughout the day.
Rock out to some tunes
Have you ever heard a song that immediately made you want to start dancing or smiling? Studies have shown that music stimulates the brain and body, reducing blood pressure and anxiety and improving mood. Thus, listening to some upbeat music has the potential to boost your mood and your energy levels. If you're fighting fatigue at work, head to your car for a private jam session during your lunch break or listen to your iPod at your desk.
Assume the lotus position
Studies suggest that yoga and tai chi, which involve meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can improve mood, reduce stress and aid sleep. As a result, practitioners may notice an increase in energy. These popular workouts also share several other health benefits, including better digestive health, decreased anxiety and depression, fewer migraines and decreased blood pressure.
Focus on the task at hand
A tendency toward multitasking exists in this increasingly fast-paced world. However, focusing on several tasks at once may actually dilute your focus and energy, causing you to be less productive and more stressed. Tackling one thing at a time can help you conserve energy and stay focused, and you may actually accomplish more.
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