Low energy levels can really put a drag on your day and keep you from enjoying your daily activities. The causes of low energy are numerous, but it usually results from the stress of living in this modern world.
Coping with stressful situations requires a lot of energy and can leave the average person feeling drained and even depressed. Discover six amazing ways you can restore your energy below.
1. Energize with a Blockbuster Breakfast
We have all heard that “you are what you eat,” but it’s also true that you are when you eat. The human body follows a circadian rhythm, and because of this, the same foods eaten at breakfast and lunch are assimilated differently than when they are eaten later. Start the day right with a breakfast that gives you the energy you need to function strong all day long.
Studies have shown that when you eat your daily protein and fat at breakfast, you tend to lose weight and have more energy; conversely, eating the same things at dinner increases your tendency toward weight gain, increased blood pressure, and heart disease.
2. Sustainable Energy with Snacks
Most people eat too many foods that supply a rapid burst of energy in the form of simple carbohydrates and sugars – which burn out fast, leaving us depleted – rather than foods with a more sustainable energy content.
Eat a snack at mid-morning and another one at mid-afternoon. Good ones to choose are nuts, seeds, fruits, or protein-rich foods like hummus made from beans; these will help you sustain your energy and prevent low blood sugar from setting in. Make your own trail mix with almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, dried cranberry, raisins, or any other combination.
3. Ginseng Restores Falling Energy
The most famous of energy tonics, Panax ginseng, has been prized and used for 5,000 years in Asian medical traditions. Ginseng’s popular uses include increasing physical and mental endurance, decreasing fatigue, and gently boosting energy. Unlike coffee, which stimulates the central nervous system, ginseng elevates energy gently.
Rather than encouraging a wired or nervous energy, my formula for “High Performance” builds your reserve of Chi, thus providing energy that is substantial, focused, and sustained. High Performance contains ginseng, select Chinese herbs, and brown rice, but no stimulants and therefore prevents the “crash” that can result from overly stimulating products. With intensified Chi, you will be propelled to perform your best and able to realize your full potential. For more information on “High Performance” formula go to www.taostar.com. It is also available at the Wellness Store.
4. Flush Out Toxins
One cause of low energy is a buildup of toxins in the system. Water is very important in properly flushing the system and hydrating the cells to prevent buildup of toxic waste products. Drink at least eight glasses of room temperature water per day. Better yet, drink teas made with herbs such as peppermint, chrysanthemum, and dandelion that will gently cleanse your body.
5. Proper Posture Promotes Energizing
Your mother was looking out for your health when she told you to stop slouching. Slouching not only makes you look older than you are, it also leads to a huge drop in energy by decreasing your oxygen intake. When you compress the diaphragm and ribs, full respiration cannot take place and the blood flow is slowed to your brain and extremities. To get proper posture, pull your chin inward and pretend there is a string pulling straight up from the top of your head.
6. Raise Your Energy with Exercise
Getting enough exercise is crucial to maintaining a high energy level. Exercise helps us deal with daily stresses; without it, the body is rapidly depleted of vital energy. There are many opportunities throughout your day to be active. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a few blocks away from your destination. Walk briskly, run, or ride your bike instead of driving. Sweep the floor with a broom instead of a vacuum. Cut your lawn with a manual mower. Take a break from sitting to stretch or do a set of squats.
To really jumpstart your energy, try this: Jump rope for five minutes every hour throughout the day and drink a glass of water afterward. This will increase your circulation, get more oxygen into your body, and remove toxins.
May you Live Long, Live Strong, and Live Happy!
Dr. Mao Shing Ni, best known as Dr. Mao, is a bestselling author, doctor of Oriental Medicine and board certified anti-aging expert. He practices acupuncture, nutrition and Chinese medicine with his associates at the Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica, a Wellness Medicine group that won the “L.A.’s Best” Award. Dr. Mao and his brother, Dr. Daoshing Ni founded Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica over 25 years ago. In addition, he is the cofounder and Chancellor of Yo San University in Venice/Marina del Rey. To subscribe to a free newsletter please visit www.taoofwellness.com To make an appointment for evaluation and treatment please call 310.917.2200 or you can email Dr. Mao at contact@taoofwellness.com