Bottom Line: If you're coming out of the holidays feeling a little sluggish and low on energy in Chicago, you're not alone! Any changes to your regular sleep and exercise routine can impact your energy levels and leave your body struggling just a bit to keep up without that seemingly necessary caffeine fix. Not to worry! As we head into the new year, we’ve prepared a list of some simple steps you can take to enjoy a healthier, happier, and less exhausted, more energized 2022!
Why it Matters: When you're feeling exhausted, you might notice some obvious aches and pains. However, what you might not so easily notice is the impact that exhaustion is having on your brain and immune system function. This is especially important with the rise of Covid cases. Those are just a couple of the reasons taking proactive steps to boost your energy is so important for your overall health and wellness. Without further ado, here are our top 3 go-to strategies to help get you from exhausted to energized....
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Strive for Daily Exercise. Yes, exercising when you feel exhausted might seem like the quickest route to being more tired, but the opposite is true! Exercise can actually increase your energy levels and brain activity and may even help support your immune system function. There are many at home options for exercise, most just require you! Also remember walking counts!
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Set Your Sleep Schedule. Your body runs on daily cycles called circadian rhythms, and these 24-hour cycles are part of your internal clock. Prioritizing your sleep and going to bed and getting up around the same time each day helps maintain those cycles. Let's strive for at least 6 hours a night, ideally we would get 8!
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Eat Right. Keeping your blood sugar balanced is key to supporting your overall energy levels. Sugary foods can provide a quick spike in energy... but very quickly leave you feeling wiped out. Eating more whole foods and reducing your sugar intake can help keep your energy levels more consistent and balanced throughout the day. A simple switch can be having a source of protein (hard boiled egg, jerky, nuts etc.) instead of a carb. or artificial fruit.
Next Steps: Taking proactive steps to boost your energy levels will positively impact both your body and your mood. If you can't tackle all of them at once, we recommend you start by getting some exercise and moving your body. Tomorrow, take the next step, and then the next! And if you’re near Edison Park and you've been living with some aches and pains that are impacting your ability to exercise or sleep, be sure to schedule a visit with us today. We’ll work side by side to create a wellness routine that can help you move better and feel less exhausted and more energized so you can enjoy a happy new year ahead!
Science Source(s): 7 Tips to Live a Happier Life. Mayo Clinic. 2020.