Feeling tired, drained and slightly de-motivated? We all feel that way from time to time. But before you reach for the caffeine, try these natural ways to boost your energy!
Lack of sleep, working in a stuffy office, nutrient deficiency – there are many reasons why you might be suffering from an energy slump. When your energy levels dip and lethargy sets in, it’s very tempting to reach for a strong coffee. Caffeine is often the ‘pick me up’ of choice. It is however a short-term fix that can make you feel worse in the long-run.
So, what else can you do to get an energy boost?
There are many natural remedies to try out. Everybody is different so it’s important to see what works best for you. If you try one and it doesn’t work fight the urge to throw your hands up in defeat and reach for the caffeine. Energy slumps can vary depending on your situation. Before selecting a natural way to boost your energy, consider why you might be tired. If it’s a long-term issue then you might need to consult a medical expert.
Ready to try a more natural remedy?
Of course, you are! You’ve read this far which is a great start. Keep reading to discover our natural ways to boost your energy:
Natural brain power:
When thinking about tiredness, there are often remedies for physical symptoms. But mental fatigue is just as draining. There are many reasons why your brain might feel exhausted. It can be caused by concentrating for prolonged periods of times for example. It can also happen if you’ve been emotional or angry. Either way, it’s important to firstly take a quick rest to avoid burnout. If you’re near a screen (laptop, tablet or mobile) step away and close your eyes for a few minutes. Take a few breaths and rest for 10 minutes.
Use your rest time to have a quick tea break. But don’t go for standard caffeine-rich tea! Try a cup of herbal tea with brain-boosting natural ingredients. Like this one from my teatime. This blend contains dried blueberries and whole goji berries, two superfoods that are ideal for a boost. Not a tea person? Pop to your nearest wholefoods store and stock up on organic dried berries. Eat whole or whip into a delicious smoothie like this one!
Natural body boost:
Vigorous exercise or endurance based workouts can leave you feeling physically exhausted. I completed a 200-mile charity bike ride a few years ago and my body felt so weak and tired. Physical endurance does build overtime but nobody is immune to physical tiredness. It’s not always caused by exercise! I’m sure at some time or other you’ve felt physically drained following a busy day on your feet, long commute or eventful week.
First things first, if you’re facing a demanding week or intense exercise make sure your body is fuelled. Your body needs fuel to function and a light lunch with limited nutrients won’t give your body much to work with. Eat well and nourish your body with regular meals and snacks. Speaking of snacks, to boost your energy stock up on nuts and seeds. Enjoy a handful whenever you feel your body feels lethargic. Almonds are an excellent choice because they are high in vitamin B2 (riboflavin) which is ideal for boosting energy production.
If you’re going through a physically demanding time, start your day the right way with an energy boost. A light bit of morning exercise is great to get your blood pumping. Try a yoga headstand, here’s advice from yoga specialist, Kelly Maslen (Kin):
“Stand about 3 feet away from a bare wall, place both palms on the floor in front of your feet. Lift one leg and start by jumping on the other leg until you gain momentum to a full hand stand.”
If all else fails and you just need a quick pick up, pop on some energy boosting music. Explore the Spotify pre-built playlists. They are LOADS of energising playlist to choose from. Including playlists to try at work for productivity and playlists for an energising workout.
On-the go boost
A energy slump can sometimes come out of nowhere! One minute you’re highly productive, completing overdue errands and then you have a sudden energy slump. This is when you often find yourself crawling into a coffee shop for a latte. For a natural on-the-go boost, try these quick fixes.
- Give your face a quick spritz!
Ideal if you’re starting to look and feel a bit tired. Go for a vitamin enriched facial spritz (vitamin C is an excellent energising ingredient). Pixi ‘wake me up mist’ is a popular product for a reason. Carry the spritz in your bag for an on the go boost.
- Baobab boost
Baobab is a nutrient dense fruit that is packed with goodness. Besides a whole host of other benefits, it’s perfect if you need an energy boost. These Aduna baobab powder sachets are ideal for an on-the-go pick me up.
- Hydrate yourself
If you don’t have anything else to hand, simply get yourself some fresh water. Dehydration can often lead to lethargy. If you feel your energy dip, sip on water and rehydrate your body naturally.
Give these tips a go! There a plenty to try out whether you are on the move, sat in the office or at home. Let us know if these natural ways to boost your energy work for you. Drop us a comment below or tweet us @totmorganic.
