6 healthy ways to boost your energy naturally
This post was originally published in December 2021.
If you’re like many people, you have a list of goals you’d like to achieve. Whether you’d like to lose some weight, get organized or learn a new hobby, you’ll need an extra dose of energy to get there. Rather than reaching for more caffeine or the latest energy-boosting fad, try these six health tips for naturally achieving all-day energy. These tips will not only help you enhance your energy levels, but they’ll also help you lead a happier and healthier life!
1. Control your stress to protect your energy
Stress consumes a huge amount of energy, so diffusing internal tension can give you a natural boost. There are many ways to reduce stress; you just need to find what method works best for you. Meditation, yoga and stress-relief apps are all helpful tools to try. Some people find that simply spending quality time with a loved one is the best way to relieve tension.
2. Exercise to increase energy
Exercise for more energy? It sounds backwards, but exercising is one of the most effective ways to increase your energy levels. Working out helps you sleep more soundly while also circulating oxygen, giving your cells more energy to burn, and releasing mood-boosting endorphins. Even just a brisk walk outside can give you a lift! If cold weather slows you down, check out these tips for maintaining an exercise regimen during winter months.
3. Avoid overwork and burnout
If you’re stretched thin because of professional, family and social obligations, your energy level can suffer. Set your priorities and eliminate activities that are less important. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends and colleagues if you need to lighten your load.
4. Eat foods that boost energy
Technically, all foods boost your energy, but sugary drinks, candy and pastries put too much sugar into your blood too quickly, leading to a crash. Instead, eat complex carbs, healthy fats and proteins, which provide slow and steady streams of energy. Here are some energy-boosting foods to try:
- Complex carbohydrates: oatmeal, fruits, vegetables
- Protein: eggs, chicken, beans
- Healthy fats: nuts, fish, vegetable oils, avocados
5. Drink water to fight fatigue
If your body isn’t getting the water it needs, even mild dehydration can drain your energy. There’s no one-size-fits-all amount of water everyone should be drinking, but a general guideline is about 11.5 cups of total fluids a day for women and about 15.5 cups for men, including fluids from food and other drinks. If you struggle with hydrating enough, a motivational water bottle that reminds you to sip your way through the day may help.
6. Get enough sleep
If you don’t get enough sleep, your energy level will suffer. However, if you get too much sleep, your energy can also suffer! Keeping a regular sleep schedule of seven to nine hours of sleep per night is your best bet for keeping up your energy levels throughout the day. Practice the same bedtime and wake time every day for the best results.
Use your Washington National wellness benefits!
If you’re doing everything right to keep your energy levels up but you still feel like you’re dragging, there could be an underlying health issue. Your doctor may be able to help you get to the root of the problem. Your Washington National policy may provide coverage for wellness visits with your doctor. Wellness visits can help your physician understand your family history, discover new and developing health risks, create a wellness plan to reduce your risks, and recommend steps to improve or maintain your health. Reach out to your Washington National agent if you have questions about your benefits.