Increase Your Energy Naturally

I know I am not the only one, at least around here, that tends to want to hide-out and hibernate in January and possibly February. I believe that most of it has to do with a slight aversion to chilly weather. My house just feels so cozy compared to the chills I'll get outside. I can't complain about it too much because I live in Texas and it certainly isn't bone chilling or frost bite causing weather. Besides the cold, I think the holidays tend to be a bit overwhelming. I may not feel like that while I am preparing or enjoying them, but I certainly feel that way in January when I just want to take it easy.

Because of this slower pace, I think it is the perfect time to do a post on natural ways to boost your energy.

1. Don't Skip Meals (especially breakfast)

It is not a good idea to skip meals on a regular basis. I know several people that skip breakfast and lunch every day and then go overboard from 3 to 9 pm, because they are starving. Keep your metabolism revved up with protein and fiber. Start your day off with eggs and fruit. Several years ago, I read a study about how adding an egg to your morning meal lowers your calorie count for the day.  People tend to eat less throughout the day if they have had an egg for breakfast. After that, I became a much bigger fan of eggs for breakfast. I am also a huge fan of fruits and vegetables in a person's diet. Juice them, eat them raw, cook them or whatever you can to increase your plant intake all day long. Those macro-nutrients are vital.

2. Get Plenty of Sleep

The average adult should be getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Your body needs that time to relax, heal and regenerate. I know that there is never enough time in the day to get everything done, but at least shoot for 7 hours of sleep even if that means you leave a few things undone until tomorrow.

3. Stay Hydrated

I have to admit that this is a huge challenge for me. I think I spent most of my school years training myself not to drink so that I didn't have to take many bathroom breaks. There just wasn't enough time.  Now, I feel like I have to make conscious efforts to even remember to drink water. Adult ladies need roughly 8 - 11 cups of water a day. Warm weather or exercising would of course increase that requirement. Adult males need about 10 - 16 cups.

4. Take a Brisk Walk

A little walk is a quick way to get the heart pumping and the blood flowing.  I think it is even better if you can do it outside so you get the benefit of fresh air and hopefully sunshine.

5. Consider Supplements

Deficiencies in magnesium, iron, iodine, niacin, vitamin B & D, and several others have been linked to lower energy levels along with many other issues. I have been taking supplements made by the essential oil company that I use. I take half of the recommended dose and they still really boost my energy levels. I shared some with my sister last summer and she noticed the increased energy immediately. She now takes them too.

6. Avoid things that cause a spike and then crash

When aiming for an overall more energetic way of life, it is best to avoid things that cause a spike or rush of energy because a crash usually follows. This includes caffeine, cigarettes, drugs, and even sugar (10 Disturbing Reasons Why Sugar is Bad).

7. Essential Oils

In case you were beginning to wonder, there are certainly oils that help with increasing energy levels.  Energizing oils include lemon, peppermint, sandalwood, white fir, spearmint, and wild orange. Applying them topically or diffusing them can really enhance a persons energy level.