Whether you have an epic to-do list, a slew of important meetings, or an infant to care for, you need energy to accomplish the goals that are important throughout the day. Below are 12 habits contributing to your feelings of sloth and sluggishness:
1. Forgetting breakfast. Starting with the obvious. A healthy breakfast gets your metabolism going. Whether it’s oatmeal, an omelet or a smoothie, start the day off with fuel!
2. Skipping your daily workout when you’re tired. At least go for a walk when you’re feeling sluggish. Working out will reward you with energy! Of course, over-exercising can deplete your energy too, so balance is key.
3. Overdoing it on coffee and booze and shirking your duty to drink enough water. Dehydration thickens your blood and makes it less efficient in transporting oxygen and nutrients which makes you more tired. Before bed, beware of alcohol as it creates a boost in the adrenaline system when it’s metabolized.
4. Eating too much before bed. A full belly can cause indigestion, making sleep uncomfortable.
5. Trying to be like Martha Stewart. It’s OK to make mistakes. If you’re striving for perfection in all that you do, it’s bound to wear you out – and you may start making things worse instead of better. Set a time limit for your projects and make finishing your goal in under 30 minutes your new form of perfection.
6. Expecting worst case scenarios. Worrying about situations that probably won’t occur is zapping tons of your energy! Shift your perspective and focus on a more positive (and more likely!) outcome. Diffuse a tense situation with a breathing technique like this one.
7. Feeding the sugar monster. Extreme spikes and drops in blood sugar wear a person out! Foods loaded with sugar and simple carbohydrates are high on the glycemic index, meaning that they rapidly increase blood sugar. Lean protein and whole grains help to keep things stable.
8. Saying “yes.” It’s OK to say “no” to events and commitments that won’t enrich your life. Why waste energy on something that isn’t truly important to you or those you care about?
9. Checking your phone in bed right before you fall asleep. Cut it out! End screen time an hour before going to bed because that warm glow of the tablet, TV or smartphone throws off your sleep regulating hormone, melatonin.
10. Not managing those medications. While prescription medications can be absolutely necessary and life-saving, some drugs can make you feel sleepy, especially if you’re starting a new course of medication. Talk to your doctor to make sure that your energy isn’t effected by your medication.
11. Ignoring your body’s need for iron. Symptoms of iron deficiency include sluggishness and irritability. Be sure you get enough iron with foods like spinach, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
12. Committing the sin of clutter. Messy room, messy mind! Keeping your desk uncluttered allows you to start your day feeling clearheaded and proactive rather than reactive. This philosophy extends to every area of the house whether it’s the kitchen or your closet.
If you're guilty on all charges and not sure how to start, we're here to help! Make an appointment to talk through your current lifestyle and we can help you restore your vitality through simple lifestyle adjustments!