Looking at your to-do list and wondering how you’ll get it all done? Struggling to get up and going in the morning? Feeling tired or stressed? You’re not the only one.
Most people today struggle with some, or all, of the above challenges. It’s a real battle to keep yourself energised and motivated, but its something that often gets swept under the rug. Yet, the consequences can be far reaching and have many negative consequences. In this article we’ll give you 4 practical tips to help boost your energy levels, so you can start enjoying life once again.
Tip 1: Minimise Stress
Let’s face it, most of us live busy lives, running from one activity to the next. A survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics highlighted that 72% of Australians feel that stress has a negative impact on their physical health. Research shows that ongoing exposure to stress results in high blood pressure, chronic fatigue and eventually leads to depression.
Take action
Take a critical look at your weekly schedule and decide which activities are not necessary. Create regular downtime to give yourself a break from work and other responsibilities.
Tip 2: Improve Sleep
The role of sleep cannot be overestimated. Most people today don’t get enough sleep for a variety of reasons, with devastating consequences. A lack of sleep is directly linked to poor physical health, higher levels of stress and decreased brain function. You’ll tend to feel lethargic, grumpy and tired.
Take action
Avoid screen time close to bedtime as this visual stimulation makes it hard for your brain to switch off. Don’t have alcohol or caffeinated drinks before going to bed as these are stimulants.
Tip 3: Increase Exercise
The Australian Government reports that more than half of all Australians don’t get enough exercise. Countless studies show the benefits of exercise for your physical and mental health. Exercise stimulates chemicals that improve your mood and the parts of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
Take action
Australian guidelines recommend 30 minutes of moderate to intensive physical activity for adults every day. It doesn’t mean you need to get a gym membership. The key to regular exercise is choosing an activity you enjoy e.g. walking or cycling.
Tip 4: Drink More Water
Drinking plenty of water is important for good health. Reality is, most people today don’t drink enough water, resulting in dehydration. Extensive research has shown time and again that even minor dehydration affects our physical and mental health. Women are advised to drink at least 8 cups of water per day while men need about 10 cups.
Take action
Start monitoring your water intake by using a water bottle or have a cup of water within reach. Record how much you drink every day and aim for the recommended amount for adults every day.
Conclusion
Boosting your energy levels isn’t going to happen overnight. Start with making small changes to your lifestyle by putting our top 4 tips into practice. Minimise stress, improve sleep, increase exercise and drink water to beat the tiredness and get your motivation back.
Over to you
We’d love to hear from you, whether you’re trying out just one, or all of our tips.
