My love for caffeine is documented and obvious, but there are times when I can’t rely on it for energy. This usually happens because it’s late in the day and I don’t want to mess with my sleep pattern or I’m trying to detox from it.
I’m also naturally low on iron—which is pretty common, anyone else?—and I’ve been battling depleted energy my whole life. I’m always trying to find ways to get an energy lift, so during the no-caffeine periods I’ve experimented with alternative ways to do so.
And while we’re talking about caffeine, did you know it’s actually better to wait a couple hours after waking before downing it? Hear me out. Your body wakes up and naturally produces cortisol and testosterone, important hormones for energy, so you are waking with it naturally. Scheduling your coffee fix a few hours into your day gives you the lift when your body needs it—as those hormones start to lower.
Beyond that, these are my other favorite ways to add a pep to my step:
Afternoon vitamins
My doctor suggested taking my vitamins (plus a B12 and iron supplement) in the afternoon, as they can aid with stamina. I used to take them in the morning, but like a.m. caffeine, that’s not really when my body needs it. I take them with a snack around 3, when natural vitality starts to fade.
Exposure to light
Supposedly, light in general (artificial or the sun) helps. I personally find it more invigorating to get natural light, so I’ve made it a habit to open blinds right after I get up. A walk outdoors is even better when you have the time. Just don’t forget your SPF, even indoors by a window!
Movement
I’m personally not into vigorous morning workouts because I tend to feel more tired after. BUT, I do love doing something light (brisk walk, yoga—especially sun salutations, pilates, swimming, evening stretching) and it’s known to promote alertness all day long. I save the cardio and more intense stuff for weekends of later in the day.
Single-tasking
Multi-tasking can lead to stress and energy drain for your mind AND body. Think about it, you’re trying to keep up with multiple things so it’s like when you’re running tons of apps on your phone and the battery goes quicker. I’ve made peace with single-tasking and in turn felt less exhausted.
Food
Snacks are my favorite thing in the world and they are actually perfection for slumps. I grab a handful of almonds, apple + honey, a sweet potato, or anything high in iron (spinach, beans) which are all known to help—especially during the 3 p.m. dead zone.
Taking breaks
I’m a firm believer in splitting up tasks. For work I’ve been using this system, and the breaks have been giving me life. I’ve noticed a huge shift in how I feel throughout the day without trying to cram everything in go-go-go style. A break full of sunshine, spinach, AND a walk? It’s ALMOST as good as the best cup of coffee…almost.
What tips do you have? I’m all about gaining as much energy as possible, so share please!
18 comments
Ooh I never knew about taking vitamins in the afternoon, but it definitely makes sense!
http://www.flareaforte.com
I also loved that suggestion! Mainly because fall is starting and I usually start a pack of vitamins during this period of the year 😀
Great post! I love these tips
http://popangelscloset.blogspot.com/
Great tips!
xx
http://www.dylanasuarez.com
I am anemic to Dbear!
Great tips! I also tend to be low on iron and schedule my coffee breaks to rejuvenate. Love the tip about single tasking because I’m guilty of doing this.
I also find that avoiding high sugars during work avoids slumps through my work days.
Interesting tips! But take care with vitamins, always under doctor’s prescription.
Today on the blog a perfect outfit to wear it with tanned skin…with ultra comfortable sandals by Isabel Marant!! 😉
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Just what I needed today! Love the idea of ‘single-tasking’ — sometimes, you just have to take it slow and one at a time!
Jen | affecionada
such a great post!!
xx
http://thedemeler.com
Such a great tips! Thanks dear 🙂
Love, Ev
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
This post was honestly really helpful. I stay away from caffeine because it drastically heightens my anxiety. I have been looking for ways to be more focused and energetic so this post came to the rescue! Thank you for sharing.
xx,
Aïchatou Bella
http://www.stilettosandstandards.com
Where is your top from in the pictures? It’s so cute!
Spot on great article, I am with you on the low iron, I actually do most od these but the idea of taking the vitamins and iron in the afternoon I had not heard of. Will be trying it for sure.
Great post! Always good to be armed with additional ways to boost energy.
Whenever I find myself low in energy I eat a red sweet apple.
I find it is an even better energy boost than coffee. I dont crash after it like coffee and it fills my stomach.
So now I changed the saying to,
“an apple a day
keeps the sleepiness away”
All great suggestions that I will have to try as the afternoon slump can be a challenge. I especially like the movement and light.
Thank you Chelsea! your advice about afternoon vitamins is precious. I will try it!!
Barbara http://www.takecareofyourself.tips
Good tips! Really find myself reaching for a coffee and need to stop!
Jabeen x
http://www.spilling-the-beans.co.uk/
Thank you for sharing your great tips. I would also add some energizing tips that work for me. Finishing off morning shower with cool water. Having Indian spiritual music on when I wake up. It’s upbeat and nourishes the soul. Also a short prayer finished by wishing happiness to all the people in the world.
Remembering to say it to myself during the day too!