Life is busy and winter is cold, dark and gloomy, so you may be looking to find easy tips for more energy. Well, you’re in the right place! While I believe that the change of seasons does a body good, I can’t pretend that I don’t struggle with feeling sluggish during the winter months when sunshine is at a premium.

I’m a wellness junkie who has a chemical free home, makes my own personal care products, and only eats organic. So, when I need an energy boost, you won’t find me reaching for caffeine or other stimulants. In fact, some of my tips will sound counter-intuitive, but stick with me and give a few of my suggestions a try. You’ll see a difference!

Easy tips for more energy 

If you find yourself lagging (and have been checked out by your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions), then join me in the natural energy club.

Fix your sleep cycle 

People who wake up early are happier and more productive, but if you’re already sluggish than the thought of waking up at 5 am probably sounds like a nightmare. However, if you go to sleep earlier and avoid screen time before bed, then you’ll be able to adjust your sleep cycle and reap the health benefits.

My doctor always tells me that the sweet spot for sleep is 7 hours per night. Even though it’s vital to health and well being, it’s often one of the first things to be sacrificed when you feel pressured to complete your to do list. But when you’re tired, you’re more likely to make mistakes and simple tasks take even longer.

Stay hydrated 

If you’re dehydrated, it can impact your mood, energy level and and even brain function. If you have a hard time remembering to drink enough water during the day, get an app to remind you or a bottle that measures your intake.

Ditch the caffeine 

Don’t stop reading or revolt. Hear me out. Caffeine taxes your adrenal glands and spikes your cortisol, creating the same environment as acute stress. It also interferes with your natural energy spikes throughout the day.

I get it. Your coffee masks your tiredness, but you’re not actually more awake. Rather than feeding your addiction, ditch the stimulant and let your body naturally regulate your energy levels. The withdrawal sucks, but it’s so worth it. I’ll never go back from decaf.

Exercise 

When you’re tired, the last thing you want to do is break a sweat. But you can benefit from the endorphins with something as simple as taking a walk. You don’t have to become a HIIT junkie, but you do need to move. The benefits for your energy level, heart, weight and overall well being are so worth it. If you’re looking to create an exercise routine, check out Jillian Michaels or YouTube for some inspiration.

Reduce your alcohol consumption

First I took your coffee, and now I’m taking your booze? I’m afraid it’s true. I drink water 99% of the time because it’s the only liquid my body really needs. I understand the holidays can be booze-y and some people tout the benefits of red wine.

However, my personal research and the opinions of my health team lean towards abstaining completely. If that’s not something you’re willing to do, at least consider reducing your consumption to avoid the sedative, drowsy effects.

Ditch sugar 

By now, we all know that refined sugar is poison. If you’re struggling to lose weight, remember that sugar makes people fat. From an energy perspective, you’ll get a short term spike, but that crash is coming and you’ll be even more exhausted.

Eat real food

Processed food affects your overall health and your energy levels. Choose foods that are going to fuel your body for the day ahead, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and lean, organic meat. For a natural energy boost, eat a banana, some fatty fish, brown rice, sweet potatoes, eggs, apples, dark chocolate, quinoa, oatmeal, avocados, oranges, seeds, beans, matcha, nuts, and leafy greens.

Quit smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your health and I can’t believe we’re still having the conversation in 2020. If you still haven’t kicked the butts and cancer isn’t scary enough for you, you’re also more likely to be sluggish because of the damage to your lungs and reduced efficacy of moving oxygen through your system.

What are your best easy tips for more energy? 

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