Increase your energy levels

To perform your best at work, in the gym, at home and out and about, takes energy. Follow these simple steps if you are feeling lethargic or low in energy.

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Sleep
I know that this is a no brainer but so many of us do not get an effective 8 hours rest.

Do not eat straight before you hit the sack, give yourself at least two hours.

Make sure your bedroom is dark, I always have the best nights sleep in those hotel rooms that have the thickest curtains so no light is let in at all. Leave your bedroom window open during the day so the room feels fresh.

Get to bed early. Studies have shown that we get the best hours sleep between 10.00pm and 6.00am. Read a book or simply chill out before bed rather than watch TV.

Meditate
It is only very recently that I have started daily meditation. I thought that exercise and eating correctly was enough to keep me balanced, happy and energised. I was so wrong! I have discovered that through meditation I am able to quieten my head, my inner chatterbox. I had no idea how exhausting this constant inner dialogue was until I was given the tools to quieten it for a while.

I meditate 20 minutes in the morning and 20 minutes in the evening every day. I have found that my energy levels have gone through the roof. I am training more effectively, I am working more effectively and I feel calmer.

Simply take time out to be by yourself, close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Try Diaphragmatic Breathing, this is simply when you try to use all of your lungs (filling your diaphragm) when you inhale and exhale. I say to my clients ‘breathe into your belly’. When thoughts come, simply try and concentrate on your breaths. Trust me if I can do it so can you. Have a go. Have a look at our Meditation ‘How to Video’ for more information.

Regular Exercise
It is well documented that regular exercise increases your energy levels unless you have hormonal problems or severe adrenal fatigue. See ‘Reduce Stress’ info for more on this.

Dehydration
One of the most common reasons for low energy is not drinking enough water. Make sure you have a bottle at your desk and keep refilling it up through the day. Going to the bathroom will also give you an excuse to stretch your muscles and walk around to increase circulation and energy levels before resuming your work.

Go ‘out of range’ for 20 minutes every day
Leave the laptop, mobile, Ipod, magazine, book etc at home or at the office and simply spend a bit of time on your own every day without external stimulus. Feels nice to just be.

Eat well
Stay away from sugary foods, too much caffeine and energy drinks. They  will spike your sugar levels and therefore energy levels in the short term, but bring you down with a bang when they wear off. This will also aid in weight loss if that is your goal.

A life balance will make you live better, move better, work better. If you have low energy levels, your body will tell you, listen to it and take care of it to stay healthy.