6 healthy ways to boost your energy
The New Year is approaching, and if you’re like many people, you have a list of goals you’d like to achieve. Whether your resolution is to lose some weight, get organized or learn a new hobby, you’ll need an extra dose of energy to achieve your new goals.
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 in 2022!
1. Control your stress
Stress consumes a huge amount of energy, so diffusing internal tension will help give your body a boost of get-up-and-go. 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
Exercise for more energy? It sounds backwards, but exercising is one of the most effective ways to increase your vigor. Working out helps you sleep more soundly while also circulating oxygen, giving your cells more energy to burn, and raising mood-boosting dopamine levels. Even just a brisk walk outside is sure to give you a lift! Check out these tips for maintaining an exercise regimen during winter months.
3. Avoid overwork
If you’re stretched thin because of professional, family and social obligations, your energy level is sure to 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 energy-boosting foods
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 carbohydrate: oatmeal, fruits, vegetables
- Protein: eggs, chicken, beans
- Healthy fats: nuts, fish, vegetable oils, avocados
5. Drink water
If your body isn’t receiving the H2O it needs, one of the first signs is a feeling of fatigue. There’s no one-size-fits-all amount of water everyone should be drinking, but consuming eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day is a reasonable goal. If you struggle with hydrating enough, a motivational water bottle that reminds you to sip your way through the day may help.
6. Mind your Zzzzzs
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.