12 Energy Boosters

How’s your energy today? Are you feeling joyful and vibrant or in need of a nap? When you’re tired do you suck it up, make another cup of coffee and push through or do you give yourself a break?

Having high levels of energy can be challenging, especially at midlife. If you want to be happy and make your next chapter your best chapter increasing your energy and overall vibration is key.

Here are 12 ways to boost your energy starting today!

1. Energize Your Eating

You wouldn’t drive your car on empty so don’t diet or deprive your body of fuel. Your brain runs on glucose and needs a steady supply throughout the day. Rather than skipping breakfast, skimping on lunch and having a huge dinner, eat small meals and snacks throughout the day.

To stabilize blood sugar and energy choose low glycemic, complex carbs like whole grains, vegetables and eat moderate amounts of healthy fats and lean proteins.

2. Declutter

Clutter is distracting and draining. Those piles of paper, clothes you never wear and stale food bog you down and ignoring it takes up brain space. Get rid of what you no longer need or use. An added benefit is that you will increase abundance by making room for what you do want. You don’t have to tackle everything at one. Start with one drawer or closet or spend 10 minutes a day decluttering. Let less is more be your mantra.

3. Release Worry

Worrying is like praying for what you don’t want so just say no to rumination. While you may think ruminating will help you figure out what do research shows it just keeps you in a worry loop. Use the mantra below to help you let go:  

“May I be happy, May I be healthy, May I be safe. May I free of worry and at peace.”

4. Try 5-HTP 

5-HTP also known as 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is an amino acid that increases levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin which can help to improve your mood and energy levels. The natural supplement may also aid weight loss because it helps reduce cravings for alcohol and carbohydrates. Taking 5-HTP supplements may also reduce the fatigue and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia.

5. Be Wise with Caffeine

A cup of coffee or tea can sharpen your mind and help you feel more energized and alert. However, too much caffeine can stress you out and may have a negative impact on sleep. Limit your intake to 1-2 cups a day and don’t have any caffeine after 2 pm.

6. Do Qi Gong

When I need a lift rather than grabbing a cup of coffee I do a few minutes of qi gong exercises. My body buzzes and I can literarily feel my chi (energy) increase. Click HERE for my favorite 10-minute morning Qi Gong routine from Lee Holden.

7. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the first signs of fatigue, so drink plenty of water.  Keep a filled water bottle with you, and set a timer on your phone or computer to remind you to drink water throughout the day.

8. Go on a Media Fast

Negative news and a beeping cellphone are huge energy drains so turn them off when possible.  Go for a walk in nature and leave your phone at home.

9. Fire the Energy Vampires

We all have those people in our lives that suck the energy out of us.  Avoid them if possible. When you have to deal with them limit your time together and set an intention to respond rather than react.

10. Say no

Do you always says yes to everyone except yourself? I used to do that too. I have a huge heart and mean well, but sometimes I over do it. I’ve learned that it’s okay to say no, and in fact saying no to others means saying yes to myself.

11. Exercise

When you’re exhausted the last thing you may want to do is exercise. However, research shows that regular, low-intensity exercise such as taking a 20-minute walk boosts energy.

12. Get Adequate Magnesium

This mineral is required for over 300 biochemical reactions including transforming blood sugar into energy. When you don’t get enough your body has to work harder to complete physical tasks. The recommended intake for women over 30 is 330 milligrams of magnesium a day. Foods high in magnesium include almonds, whole grains and fish.

Struggling with low energy levels? I’d love to help you. I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach who has helped thousands of women lose weight and feel great. To schedule a complimentary consult click HERE.