How many of us, still in the working universe, think we need coffee to boost our energy and jump-start the day? How many of us wake up with a fuzzy brain and think a shot of java will do it for us?
When your energy level falls into the red zone, you probably reach for our culture’s quick fix: caffeine. A recent USDA report reveals that women in their 30s consume about 165 milligrams daily, but by age 50, the average daily leaps to 225 milligrams.
There is an energy crisis of historic proportions going on. We are reaching for anything that will give us energy, and we’re over-relying on coffee now more than ever.
But there are other techniques to naturally boost your energy – not just in the morning but also throughout the day.
Here are five natural energy-boosting techniques to maximize your energy potential:
Meditate When You First Wake Up
Meditation – staying present with emotions, thoughts, and body sensations without passing judgment or reacting – is a way to increase energy and reduce stress. The UCLA Mindfulness Center conducts numerous studies about the value of meditation to your health and wellness. These UCLA scientists believe they have discovered the first neural evidence for why mindfulness produces a variety of health benefits – one of which is increased energy.
Green Drinks: The Energy Elixir
I’m a devoted follower of the Green Drink brigade. A green drink can boost your energy ten times more than caffeine. Every morning, I get up and make my blended smoothie with kale and spinach. I add Organic Barley Juice Powder, fruit, flaxseed, or hemp seeds and combine it with alkaline water, coconut water, or juice.
I’m partial to the smoothie as opposed to the juice because it’s higher in fiber. Green drinks can be a boost to your immune system, in addition to being an anti-aging elixir, rich in vitamins and minerals,
Stretch for an Energy Boost
Stretching is an elixir for your body. It reduces stress and clears your mind. Breathe deeply into your stretches for 3-5 minutes, your muscles will get stronger, and your body will be well-toned. Apply some modified stretching at your work desk for a quick energy boost during the day. Hanging upside down is the ultimate boost. It stimulates neurotransmitters and gives you a shot of adrenaline and dopamine. Try gentle yoga to move the circulatory system and awaken the nervous system. Try an invigorating Sun Salutation to fight fatigue in an afternoon slump or when you wake up.
Take a Break from the Grid When Fatigue Overwhelms
Humans are connected on an electronic grid that controls how we think, feel, and respond. We turn from smartphones to computers to find data that helps us function in this fast-paced world. It is unrelenting, fatiguing, and mind-numbing.
Step away from the grid at night and take quiet time to embrace your inner life. Enjoy nature, speak face-to-face with a friend, and try not to look at your phone when dining or conversing.
Look Fabulous, Darling, and You’ll Never Be Tired
You don’t have to be a genius to understand that looking your best gives you an energy boost. Looking fabulous gives your self-esteem a huge boost, too. I never leave my apartment without my earrings and a smile.
Joan Frances Moran is a creative thought leader exploding with the potential of now. A lifelong learner with an unrelenting curiosity, Joan started teaching yoga at 60 and unlocked the key to cultivating daily happiness. Her signature headstand is not the only thing that leaves audiences in awe.