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We all wish we could have an endless supply of energy and motivation that fueled us throughout the day. While some of us may resort to coffee for this energy reserve, let’s face it: coffee alone cannot always supply the energy and motivation that we need.
When we’re energized and motivated, we feel happier. We’re more productive. We have a more positive outlook and perspective on life. We see solutions that we wouldn’t otherwise see if we were drowsy and down in the dumps.
So how do you feel more energetic and motivated throughout the day minus all the extra coffee?
The next time your energy and motivation levels are low, try one of the below 12 techniques.
12 Healthy Ways to Feel Instantly Energized
1. Though you may not feel energetic, act like it. Did you know you can actually trick your mind into feeling more energetic? How we outwardly act affects how we inwardly feel. So by simply acting more energetic, you’ll feel more energetic.
2. Exercise. Get an instant pep boost by getting your heart rate up and your blood flowing. Go outside for a quick 10-minute walk, or do 5 minutes of jumping jacks. It doesn’t matter what you do-just get moving!
3. Listen to upbeat music. Research has consistently touted the positive effects of listening to upbeat music. Not only has music been shown to be mood lifting, but it also can improve your overall well-being. So the next time you feel yourself slowing down, put on a happy playlist of songs, or try one of Spotify’s playlists, like “Wake Up Happy,” or “Confidence Boost.”
4. Choose your food wisely. Stay away from the carbs throughout the day to avoid drowsiness. Instead, opt for protein-rich meals and, believe it or not, coconut snacks. The triglycerides in coconut are fast-acting energy sources that your body can utilize at a quicker rate than coffee.
5. Drink your coffee or tea strategically. There’s nothing like a boost of caffeine to stimulate you and get your energy flowing. Avoid the afternoon slump as well with a cup of tea after lunch. Just be sure to cut yourself off by 2 p.m. to avoid insomnia that night.
6. Take a power nap. A power nap can instantly improve your mood, boost your creativity and productivity, enhance your overall health, and refresh your energy levels. So go ahead, flop on the couch for a few minutes. Or if you’re at work, nap in your car over lunch. Just 20 minutes will lead to a more productive, energetic afternoon.
7. Meet up with your squad. Hang out with your friends, or simply call one of them up and chat for a few minutes. Humans are able to reflect others’ emotions, so if you have a peppy squad of friends, they’ll instantly rub off on you.
8. Tick off items on your to do list. There’s nothing that will make you feel more productive and energized than actually being productive.
9. Bask in the sun. The sunlight is you natural alarm clock. Go outside in the sun and get some rays. This will signal your internal body clock that it’s time to wake up and get moving.
10. Drink a glass of water. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day and drink plenty of water. Dehydration leads to drowsiness, which can kill your energy and motivation.
11. Break your work up into chunks. Realistically, the majority of us can’t stay focused on anything for more than 90 minutes, so break up your work into chunks. Schedule specific tasks to be completed within certain time periods to avoid loss of energy and motivation.
12. Stretch it out. Increase your blood flow and energy by doing some simple stretches every hour or two. Raise your arms above your head. Roll out your ankles and your neck. Bend over and touch your toes.
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