3 simple ways to boost energy

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Heather

The constant drain of our energy levels

City life manages to further drain our energy levels. Depending on where you live and work, you’re probably struggling to breathe in polluted air, sitting in endless traffic jams or struggling with unreliable public transport. If you have kids, you’re probably also grappling with impossible and endless demands, if you’re in a relationship you’re also trying to compromise, adapt and keep the whole damn thing alive, and if you’re single, well then you’re likely desperately running around searching for Ms or Mr Right. And pretty much everyone is being bombarded with a crazy rollercoaster of global politics, terrorist events, gossip, social media and general “trying to keep on top of things” in a mad paced world..

The stress of trying to do it all

The strain of trying to do so much can also have pretty disastrous effects on our bodies. Stress can trigger the release of hormones including adrenaline and cortisol, which can play havoc with your health, and result in anxiety, depression, sleep problems, headaches and weight gain, amongst other symptoms. And even if we have it all under control, we probably feel tired and run down.

Don’t we all feel just a little bit under the weather, most of the time?

Here are 3 really simple ways to help increase energy levels :

1. Start saying “no”

Most of us aren’t very good at saying no. We don’t want to offend people, and most critically, we have a superman or woman reputation to keep up. It’s important that we learn to say no, nicely, when we’re asked to do something which we know in our heart of hearts will only sap us of energy. If “no” is too brave, then start by saying you’ll do something, but negotiate on delivery dates and timelines.

2. Schedule “de-stress time” with your friends

Though it sounds counter-intuitive to arrange social events when you’re tired, the right kind of “night out”, with a close group of friends can take your mind off the everyday, mundane stuff which constantly demands our time and attention. Talk about fun stuff, gossip, have a glass of wine if that’s your thing, but most importantly, allow your mind to be free and react in the moment for a while.

3. Drink loads of water

This is such an obvious one, but we all forget to do it. Busy lives require lubrication, and the tea, coffee and alcohol we often reach for have short lived “highs” and only serve to dehydrate us further. Drinking water helps to prevent cells in your body shrinking, so they function efficiently, avoiding fatigue. Keep a bottle on your desk, and set an alarm to remind yourself to drink regularly. Carry your water bottle with you wherever you go. Drink hot water with lemon first thing in the morning. Drink a glass of water with your meals.