Often, tiredness stems from stress, inadequate sleep, a poor diet, and other lifestyle factors.
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Try these practical self-help tips to boost your energy and feel more refreshed.
1. Eat Regularly
Maintain your energy by eating balanced meals and snacks every 3-4 hours. This keeps blood sugar levels steady, helping you avoid energy dips caused by heavy, infrequent meals.
2. Stay Active
Exercise, even when you feel tired, can boost your energy in the long term. Start with short activities like a 15-minute walk and gradually increase. Aim for 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, each week for best results.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Carrying extra weight can drain energy and put additional stress on your heart. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you reach a healthier weight, improving both energy levels and overall well-being.
4. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for staying alert and energetic. Try to:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.
- Avoid daytime naps if possible.
- Unwind with relaxing activities before bed, like reading or listening to calming music.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress can drain your energy. Incorporate relaxing activities into your routine, such as:
- Going to the gym, practicing yoga, or tai chi.
- Spending time with friends or listening to music. Whatever helps you relax can help you feel more energized.
6. Consider Talking Therapy
If stress or low mood is contributing to fatigue, talking therapies like counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may help. You can discuss options with a healthcare provider for referral or look into private therapy options.
7. Cut Back on Caffeine
Caffeine can make you feel more awake, but it also disrupts sleep and can lead to daytime tiredness. Reduce your intake gradually, especially in the evening, to avoid caffeine’s stimulating effects on your sleep.
8. Limit Alcohol Intake
While alcohol might make you feel sleepy initially, it can disrupt deep sleep, leaving you feeling tired the next day. Aim to limit alcohol before bed and take alcohol-free days during the week. The NHS advises men and women to avoid exceeding 14 units of alcohol weekly.
9. Stay Hydrated
Mild dehydration can cause fatigue, so be sure to drink enough water throughout the day, especially after exercise. A glass of water can quickly restore your energy when you feel sluggish.
By integrating these habits into your routine, you can improve your energy levels, better manage stress, and support a healthier lifestyle.