The shortened daylight hours and cooler temperatures this time of year leave many feeling zapped for energy. But before you reach for that extra cup of coffee or a sugar-loaded energy drink, check out these natural energy boosters that can help you power through these fall and winter months.
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ToggleEat Magnesium Rich Foods
Magnesium is a key mineral needed for hundreds of biochemical functions in the body, so even a slight depletion can lead to an energy slump. For a natural increase in magnesium, turn to nuts (particularly almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts), as well as grains and fish (especially halibut).
Adding these mineral rich foods to your daily diet can restore your magnesium levels and help you get energized the healthy way.
Take a Power Nap
A quick power nap in the middle of the day can ward off a foggy brain in the evening. This time of rest allows your brain to recuperate from information overload, and actually helps you to think more clearly and retain information better.
Just be sure that you’re limiting your nap to no more than 60 minutes, otherwise you could end up going into a deeper sleep cycle and it will make it harder to get up and get back to work.
Stay Hydrated
Just like you can often mistake thirst for being hungry, feeling fatigued may actually be a sign that you aren’t getting enough water. Staying well hydrated allows your body to function better and can help fend off lethargy.
Keep in mind that if you are consuming a lot of caffeine or alcohol, this will also affect your body. Limiting these fluids in addition to increasing your water intake will yield the best results. You don’t have to completely ditch your morning cup of joe, just be sure to balance it with proper hydration.
Get Moving
If you’re feeling tired, sometimes the best thing you can do is get up and get moving. A brisk walk around the block (or the office), a quick climb up a few flights of stairs, or any other burst of activity will help get your blood pumping and your mind cleared.
Have 4 minutes to really get your heart rate up? Try a Tabata workout where you alternate 20 seconds of high intensity activity (like burpees, squats, push ups, jumping jacks, etc.) with 10 seconds of rest, for a total of 8 rounds.
Don’t rely on sugar or caffeine to push you through the day, they only to lead to a crash later. Try these natural energy boosters to get energized the healthy way.