Increase Your Energy Levels

What is Energy?

Whatever we do, our body needs energy; energy is the fuel of life. The more fuel we have, the more that we can accomplish. Children have a nearly endless supply of energy. However, as we grow older, we lose a lot of the enthusiasm of our youth and the energy that came with it.

We generate energy at all levels of our being. Not only does our physical body produce energy, but so do our emotions and our minds. For example, taking care of yourself and living a healthy lifestyle will generate physical energy. Something that deeply inspires us will generate emotional energy and learning something new or challenging, or embracing a new belief or personal value will produce mental energy.

What affects our energy levels and how do we increase it?

Lack of energy is unpleasant and most people try to avoid it whenever possible. There is evidence to indicate that tiredness creates the most undesirable moods. However, there are many different ways to bring back our old energy, or further increase our current energy: 

Breathing

Using ‘proper’ breathing is great for stress management and tension reduction. Proper breathing can be learned relatively easily and, once you’ve got it, it can have an amazing effect on your energy levels.  

Food

It is important monitor what you eat, as consuming insufficient calories will substantially influence energy level. Eating the right amount of calories at regular intervals throughout the day will leave you feeling energised and fuelled for the day. 

Fluids

It is important to have ample fluids for fuel and stamina. You can get these fluids from a variety of sources: the foods you eat, the beverages you consume and the plain, pure water you drink. Ideally you should drink 8-12 glasses of fluids a day and at least 5 of those glasses should be water.

Health 

Research has shown that people with low levels of energy have a high propensity for being more vulnerable to illness, while those with high levels of energy are more resistant. Maximal health is associated with increased energy. 

Sleep

According to experts, hitting your snooze button over and over again is a really bad way to feel rested. National commission on sleep disorders research suggested that the majority of adults need at least 7 hours sleep, however most individuals need at least 8 hours of nightly sleep. Attempt to go to bed earlier every night to ensure you are getting enough sleep.

Clothes 

It is believed that wearing the correct clothing can correlate with increased energy. When we wear clothes that we look and feel good in, or wear colours that enhance our mood or receive compliments from others about our clothes, our self-esteem raises and so does our energy. 

Warm Shower 

Some studies suggest that a warm bath or shower is an excellent way to reduce tension and increase energy. It relaxes the muscles and wakes us up. It is not, however, advised to stay in the water with a temperature above 40 degrees Celsius for long periods of time as it can leave you in a somewhat lethargic state. 

Meditation

A bad day at work, negative thoughts and connections with others during the day can be very draining. Relaxation of your mind and body will assist you in restoring your energy levels.

Fulfilment   

We can seek to develop a real aspiration for something in our lives, or we can learn something challenging and new that will inspire us. Using these and other practical strategies will not only generate enthusiasm, drive, and will in our lives, but unleash a vast reservoir of raw energy.