If you’re tired of feeling flat,
refresh your mind and body with our simple tips
Drink water
Your body needs water to transport oxygen
to its cells, so if you don’t get enough, you could feel tired and experience headaches.
Recent research by the University of Connecticut showed that even mild
dehydration can alter a person’s mood, energy and concentration. Aim to drink
two liters of water a day to stay topped up.
Dose
up on sunshine
Gloomy weather can drain your body of
vitamin D, which not only fights fatigue, but tackles low moods, too. If you’re
not getting enough sun (think 10 to 20 minutes a day), try Vitabiotics Ultra
Vitamin D ($7.65, vitabiotics.com).
Get moving
Yes, it’s hard to motivate yourself to exercise
if you’re feeling low, but the pay-off is huge: a shot of happy hormones, a
smug face and an energy boost, all in one! A fast, high-intensity cardio
circuit is all you need for an instant endorphin high, but if you’re short on
time, a quick stroll will do the trick. A study by California State University
showed that a brisk, 15-minute walk improved mood and energy for up to two
hours. Result!
15-minute
walk improved mood and energy for up to two hours
Eat smart
As tempting as it can be to reach for a
sugary snack for a quick pick-me-up, it’ll only lead to a nasty slump later. Go
for snacks high in protein, fiber and healthy fats such as avocado or cheese to
keep your energy on a slow and steady burn.
Power nap
Catching a few zzs during the day (ideally
for no longer than 20 minutes) can help to re-energize your mind and body.
Nowhere to nap? Get away from your computer screen. A study from the University
of Melbourne showed that ‘short and unobtrusive breaks’ made workers more
productive. Tea, anyone?
Catching
a few zzs during the day (ideally for no longer than 20 minutes) can help to
re-energize your mind and body.
Sing it out
Multiple studies show that music is an
effective mood booster and it’ll help your workouts, too. Crank up your
favorite tunes for a hit of endorphins.
Adjust your posture
A simple switch in pose can instantly lift
your mood. A study in the journal Biofeedback found that walking or sitting
with a slouched posture can lead to decreased energy levels and low mood, so
pull those shoulders back!
A
simple switch in pose can instantly lift your mood.
Make scents
Did you know that a whiff of zingy lemon
can improve blood flow to the brain and improve focus? If you’re after more
energy, try a spritz of peppermint - the zingy scent has the power to beat
fatigue and boost concentration.
Get fishy
The omega-3 fatty acids in oily fish boosts
your brain function to keep you alert. Try a tasty salmon and asparagus dinner
or pop a few anchovies in your salad to support your grey matter. If you don’t
like fish, try Bioglan Red Krill Oil ($26.9, hollandandbarrett.com).
The
Omega-3 fatty Acids in oily-fish boosts your brain function to keep you alert.
Clown around
Book in quality time with your friends.
Laughter is a great good mood trigger and there’s nothing better than a giggle
with your mates to lift your spirits.
