Up your energy

It is sometimes hard enough just to get through a workday, never mind find the energy to still go out and exercise after work. But energy that lasts all day does not have to be an impossible dream.

Most people experience a slump in their energy levels at some time during the day. Fatigue is the body’s way to slow you down so that you cannot drive it to sheer exhaustion. People who work in spite of their tiredness may suffer the consequences, such as being more susceptible to illness. For this reason, it is important to identify when your energy levels tend to dip and when they soar. Use this information to move aside surplus energy all day long. But, no matter what hour you get stuck in ‘low gear’, here are some quick and easy ways to get you fired up again.

Early morning
The best way to wake yourself up is to stimulate your senses. Make a cup of tea, listen to lively music, sing in the shower, and use a body wash with an invigorating scent.

Afternoons
Don’t spend lunch hour at your desk. Sitting in the same position for a long time drains your energy. Take a short walk, get out into the fresh air, talk to other people and if you have to, take a short nap of no more than 20 minutes.

Evenings
You may feel tired but you still have chores to do. A cup of coffee may be tempting, but resist the urge. Having coffee and fizzy drinks even three to four hours before bed can keep you awake. A better idea is to run up and down the stairs or around the house for a quick energy surge.


Tip: if you are hungry before bed, you may have a hard time falling asleep or keep waking up. Have a light snack, such as cheese and crackers, or yoghurt and juice before bed to ensure that this does not happen.