It’s that time of year again when people tend to experience a post-holiday slump. If you’re struggling to adjust to being back at work, the winter weather is getting you down, or your motivation to stick to resolutions is already waning, you need a pick-me-up. Here are some quick and easy ways to boost your energy levels and lift your mood.
Get your body moving
If you’re feeling sluggish, or you’re tired, the last thing you may feel like doing is playing sports or hitting the gym. It’s natural to have days when you want to curl up on the couch or stay indoors rather than going for a jog or doing a workout, but moving your body could be just the tonic you need. Exercise is a powerful natural mood-booster and it can also supercharge your energy levels and help to reduce stress and anxiety. Even a brisk walk at lunchtime or a 20-minute spin or HIIT session can make a huge difference. If you’re finding it hard to muster up the enthusiasm, give yourself a pep talk and think about how you’ll feel after your workout.
Rehydrate and boost your nutrient intake
Dehydration and a poor diet are common causes of low energy levels and a lack of get-up-and-go. If you’ve partied hard during the holidays or your diet has slipped and you’ve overindulged, it’s natural to feel a little flat and lethargic. Rehydrate and boost your nutrient intake. Drink plenty of water and follow a healthy eating plan. You may also want to consider taking a trip to an IV bar or adding supplements to your diet. It’s wise to consult your doctor before changing your diet or taking supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Try to get into the habit of drinking at least 2 liters of water per day and ensure that your diet is balanced. Using an app to keep a food diary can help you identify areas for improvement, for example, increasing your intake of fiber and protein or reducing sugar consumption.
Spend time outdoors
Being outside is proven to benefit mental health. If you go for a walk, sit in a park or take a hike, for example, you should find that you feel more alive and alert and less stressed. Spending time in nature can help to lift your mood and make you feel happy and it can also provide opportunities to increase your activity levels. There are all kinds of sports and pursuits you can enjoy outdoors, including kayaking, surfing, walking, climbing, cycling, swimming, rafting, and rowing.
Prioritize sleep
Research suggests that around a third of US adults don’t get enough sleep. If you don’t get the rest you need, this can cause tiredness and it can also put you at risk of physical and mental health issues. Try to prioritize sleep. Set yourself a routine and take time to relax before you go to bed. Go to sleep and get up at the same time each day and allow yourself time out to de-stress and unwind. Listen to music, run a bath, or read when you get home from a long day at work.
January can be a tough month. After the excitement of the holidays, it’s back to work and contending with long days and wintry weather. If you’re feeling sluggish, there are some very simple ways to boost your energy levels. Move your body, spend time outside, rehydrate and prioritize nutrition and sleep.
