Running Out of Energy? Check Your Lifestyle
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us try to do too much every day and make it work somehow. Lately I have found that does not work as well as it should for me. I get a lot done, but at night I am totally exhausted and really wonder if it was worth the effort.
If you can relate, it may be time to take a closer look at your lifestyle habits to see if they are undercutting your energy. Here are a few questions to ask yourself from Harvard Health.
Are you stressed out much of the time? - When stress becomes a nonstop phenomenon in your life, cortisol, a stress hormone can increase inflammation in your body. Take your stress seriously and find some way to let go of the tension. Turn up the volume on your favorite symphony or jazz. Use short yoga sessions morning and evening to stay focused and toned. Check out an online session of tai chi and give this gentle swaying exercise a try. Whatever works to reduce stress will make your day a lot better.
Are you forgetting to add the fruits and veggies? - Sometimes when the day has been too long it is all too easy to order pizza and collapse on the couch. Eating too much processed food can reduce energy and increase inflammation. Also, eating too much at one time can trigger blood sugar surges and create more tiredness. Fix everything with many small meals of protein-loaded foods. Serve chicken, fish, veggies, fruits, nuts and seeds and choose healthy oils such as olive oil.
Are you skipping your daily workouts? - The body weakens and loses muscle strength when we let our fitness routines slide. Refocus your daily walk, stretching sessions, or strength exercises and build them into your daily schedule. Pick the most comfortable time to make them happen. If you miss a morning workout, make sure you do an evening one. If you can't do 30 minutes, try three 10-minute exercise sessions. Whatever you do will lift your spirits and keep your body strong.
Are you sleeping soundly every night? - Talk to your doctor to see if you have any sleep issues. Then make your bedroom your sleep retreat. Shut down electronics at least two hours before bedtime. Upgrade your mattress and pillows and use air filters to cleanse the air and screen out noise. Go to bed the same time every night, including weekends, and skip spicy foods, smoking, or alcohol right before bedtime. Develop a sleep ritual with a warm bath, simple stretching exercises or soft music.
Whatever you do to upgrade your lifestyle should work to fuel your energy.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Flower Mound, Tex.