Day to day life can often be hectic, as well as draining, on both the body and the mind. Going through the day feeling tired and burdened by swarming thoughts and worries is no fun.
The following are a few simple ideas to help you ‘recharge’ on a daily basis.
Meditate
While meditation is more commonly associated with relaxation than energy, the two go hand in hand. A restless mind can make it very difficult to fall asleep at night, as well as to focus on your day to day responsibilities.
Taking a few moments to meditate before you go to sleep at night can help you let go of the swarm of thoughts and worries of the day, so that you can enjoy more restful sleep, and wake up refreshed.
Meditation is also associated with lowering stress levels, and high stress levels have been linked to reduced melatonin, the hormone which signals your body that it is time to sleep. If you reduce your stress through meditation, your melatonin levels will likely regulate, which contributes greatly to quality sleep.
Meditating in the morning can help you center your mind for the day ahead. Additionally, if you find yourself feeling drained or overwhelmed in the afternoon, and do not have time for a nap (as many of us don’t) taking a few moments to meditate can relax and reset your brain enough to provide an additional burst of energy to keep you going.
Take a walk in the sun
If the weather permits it, a walk, even a short walk, in the fresh air and sunshine can do wonders. Many people are lacking in sufficient levels of vitamin D, which can cause fatigue. The sun is the best source of vitamin D available.
A study performed at the University of Newcastle found that vitamin D boosts muscle function, as well as energy levels. Dr. Akash Sinha, the study’s leader, hypothesizes that vitamin D deficiency impairs the functioning of the mitochondria, the energy center of our cells.
Even if the sun is not shining, a walk can still be highly beneficial. The cardiovascular exercise of walking can itself provide energy, as well as get you in better shape!
Give herbs a try
One excellent, energy-providing herb that makes a great-tasting tea is yerba mate, which hails from the South American rainforest. Yerba mate contains low levels of caffeine, and is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and polyphenols. Yerba mate has also been associated with improved immune system function and greater mental clarity.
Korean ginseng is another herb that has been used since ancient times to provide the body with natural energy. Talk to a natural health professional to determine the amount of ginseng you should take that is appropriate for your individual health and body composition.
Eat for optimal health and energy
A whole, organic diet can go a long way towards improving your overall health, as well as giving you sustained energy throughout the day. Healthy proteins, such as beans, nuts, chickpeas, wild-caught fish, and grass-fed meats are key, as are a rainbow of organic fruits and veggies.
Superfoods, including blue-green algae, blueberries and kale, provide a broad spectrum of nutrients to your body, keeping you fueled with the right ‘stuff’ to face any challenge.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://eocinstitute.org/meditation/meditation-for-increased-energy-how-why-it-works/
http://www.naturalnews.com/035888_herbs_energy_boost_natural.html
http://www.ncl.ac.uk/press.office/press.release/item/vitamin-d-proven-to-boost-energy-from-within-the-cells
