7 Steps to Having More Energy

By Melanie Mendelson, (c) 2005

 

1. Get enough sleep.

Sleep deprivation is the most common cause of low energy and fatigue. Most adults need 8 hours of sleep every night. If you are sleeping in late on weekends, it's a sign that you don't get enough sleep during the week.

If you have to wake up early in the morning, go to sleep earlier in the evening. Going to bed even 30 minutes earlier can make a huge difference in your energy levels during the day!

 

2. Reduce clutter.

Not being able to find anything among out-of-control piles of papers is stressful. Clothes that you never wear, papers that are falling everywhere and useless items that you feel sorry to throw out can invade your space and take over your life.

Clutter causes stress and saps away energy. Dump all unnecessary stuff in a big garbage can, and you'll be able to breathe easier and have more energy.

 

3. Drink more water.

Being dehydrated makes you feel tired and irritable. If you are not thirsty, that does not mean that you drink enough water. By the time you feel thirsty it's too late - you are already dehydrated.

Most people need at least 8 cups of water per day. The easiest way to know that you are drinking enough is to buy one of those "8 glass" water-bottles that they sell in most drugstores.

 

4. Take a walk.

Sitting in the chair all day can make you feel stiff and tired, and then you'd feel too lazy to get up, creating a vicious cycle of inactivity.

Make it into a habit to take a walk every day, and your energy levels will increase.

 

5. Break a routine.

Having the same old routine every day sucks out your soul and steals your energy.

Do not allow yourself to get stuck in a rut! Do something new on a regular basis.

 

6. See a friend.

Isolation is a recipe for bad mood and low energy. Even when you don't feel like dealing with anyone, spending time with a person whose company you enjoy will energize you.

 

7. Lose weight.

Carrying excess weight puts additional strain on the body. Even an extra 10 lbs are hard to carry. Try lifting a 10 lb sack of potatoes! Now imagine it being permanently attached to you - day and night.

If you are overweight, your body has to work hard to constantly carry around the extra pounds. Shed the excess fat, and you'll feel lighter and more energetic.