RENEWED, RECHARGED & READY FOR THE NEW NORMAL
An Energetic Life
What you eat is important. But so is how you live. If you’re strained, drained and just-plain pooped, try these whole-body ways to increase physical, mental and emotional energy
Oxygen is vital to physical stamina, as well as stress-reduction and overall wellbeing. Try simple deep breathing exercises: inhale slowly into the abdomen to the count of four, gently hold the breath for two, then exhale for six. Set a timer for every hour or so, to remind you to breath.
2 / HYDRATE.
Like oxygen, water is essential to promote alertness and fight fatigue. Being even slightly dehydrated can drain energy and decrease focus and strength. Shoot for 64 ounces a day of pure, filtered water; add a splash of grapefruit or pomegranate juice to make it tastier.
3 / Sprint.
Interval training—intense bouts of exercise like sprinting or cycling fast for 30 seconds, followed by a slower pace for 60 seconds—boosts stamina and encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals.
4 / STIMULATE.
Exercise your brain, as well as your body; mental stimulation improves concentration, focus and energy. Learn a language, read one non-fiction book a week, do crossword puzzles or take an online dance class; learning new moves enhances brain activity (and you’ll get a little movement and fun).
5 / MEDITATE
Chronic stress saps energy, dampens mood. A simple daily meditation practice can ease tension and calm your mind. Try five minutes of focusing on your breath every morning, or try a meditation app with guided imagery.
6 / SLEEP.
Even small amounts of sleep deprivation increase fatigue, lessen productivity and dampen mood. Establish a steady evening routine, go to sleep at the same time every night, and keep your bedroom dark and quiet; use roomdarkening shades, earplugs and sound machines. If you haven’t slept, take an afternoon nap; a siesta can boost alertness, performance and mood. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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PHOTO BY BY LZF/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
1 / BREATH.
