While it can be tempting to just accept that your body is aging, there are many ways to boost your energy levels. So, no matter where you fall on the energy and activity spectrum, read on to find simple ways to beat fatigue and increase your energy to live a healthy, active lifestyle.
Exercise
This might seem counterintuitive since exercising requires exerting energy, but moving your body is a proven way to boost your energy levels. Light exercise every day releases endorphins, making you feel happier and more awake. If you’re starting to feel tired, take a walk or light jog. This will allow you to stretch your legs, enjoy the weather outside and invigorate your mind by making your body physically move into a new environment.
Lifting weights is another way to boost your energy and promote healthy living. Strength training through lifting weights or resistance exercises help you build your muscle mass and maintain your strength. Weakened muscles can make even the simplest tasks feel draining. Building muscle mass makes your body more efficient and increases your metabolism, making you feel overall more energized.
Drink water
Drinking water may seem like a given, but so many people are dehydrated and not taking in enough water every day! Staying hydrated helps to increase your metabolic rate and allow your organs to function to their full capacity. You should be drinking at least 64 oz. of water per day, ideally spread out throughout the day to maximize the effectiveness on your body. The recommended schedule is to drink two glasses of water after waking up to help activate internal organs. Then, drink one glass of water 30 minutes before a meal to avoid overeating and aid digestion. Drink one glass of water before bed to help prevent muscle cramps and allow your body to rest and heal from the day.
Create a good sleep schedule
There are many different sources that recommend different amounts of sleep to be the most energized, but the most important thing is consistency. Go to bed around the same time each night and wake up around the same time each morning. Sleeping in until noon one day and then going to bed at 1 a.m. and waking up at dawn the next day is draining on your body and can leave you feeling more exhausted, even if you got more sleep. Stick to a consistent schedule so that your body knows when to expect to get rest and can adjust to that routine. You’ll find that you won’t need to nap as often if you get the proper amount of sleep each night.
Find a hobby
As people age, they become increasingly isolated and attached to their daily routine. Step outside your usual pattern at least once a week to do something that excites you. Go to a lecture, learn how to crochet, or join a book club! You can also improve your energy by giving it to someone else through volunteering. Pick a place that could use your service and spend a few hours a week there, whether it’s at an animal shelter, food bank or women’s shelter. Any of these activities will allow you to break the monotony of your daily routine and give you the fulfillment of accomplishing something that you put your time and energy into, which will, in turn, increase your endorphin level and make you overall happier and more energetic. If you aren’t able to drive yourself, About Care Home Care offers services to take you to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and more.
One at a time
Don’t compare yourself to anyone else’s energy or activity levels. Start today by making one simple change and take things one step at a time. By slowly changing your routine and implementing these tips, you can progress to feeling more energetic each day. What’s most important is to focus on embracing your own self-care and working towards living a healthy and energized life.