You may be expecting to see a list of things that can increase your energy, but that isn’t all you will find in this post. Sure, I’ll include some known energy boosters. The most valuable thing you can do when you are tired is so simple you probably will laugh. Ready? When you are feeling tired….rest. This is really hard for many of us. There is just so much to do, right? I get it. I really get it.

It is the beginning of the school year, and I really get it! I have found myself feeling more tired than usual this last week after getting back into the routine of school. If you have just joined me on the blog, you may not know that in addition to writing, spiritual teaching and life coaching, I’m also a public school music teacher and single mom.

I used to be chronically tired. But then I realized it didn’t have to be that way even if I had a lot on my to-do list.

When you are tired…

When you are tired you will find yourself less productive, more emotionally reactive and prone to making mistakes. For example, research has shown that driving while drowsy (or tired) is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of a substance. In fact, some research says it is even more dangerous.

Being tired can influence our healthy (or not so healthy) choices. When you keep working  when you are tired you may find yourself reaching for some type of relief from the fatigue. You might try to find that relief in a dish of ice cream, a glass of wine, or in a bag of tortilla chips.

Not only do some of our decisions regarding our health suffer but our actual health suffers. When we sleep, our bodies naturally reinforce their immune systems. If we are short on sleep we are short on immune function. This is actually dangerous if you have a chronic condition or are fighting an illness. You need sleep to heal. You need sleep to stay well.

Being tired can make it difficult for you to think clearly. This means you might make mistakes in your work. You might also find yourself in the midst of an argument you didn’t anticipate with someone you love. Ever tried to have a serious conversation with your spouse or partner just before you drift off to sleep and get surprised to find yourselves an argument? Me, too.

Have you heard about Ariana Huffington’s new book on sleep? I haven’t had a chance to read it yet, but I’m intrigued by the premise. In interviews she tells about being exhausted while she was working to build The Huffington Post. She was so exhausted she fainted, hit her head and face on her desk and broke her cheek. It was the beginning of a new and healthier way to live for her.

Strategies to rest and re-energize

If you can swing it, sleep is the best course of action. Even a 20 minute power nap can change your day leaving you refreshed, energized and ready to go.

Set yourself up to get quality sleep each night. 7-8 hours of sleep is best for most of us. Set a wind-down period each evening before going to bed of at least 30 minutes where you can rest. This will help you fall asleep. If you find that your mind won’t shut down, jot everything on your mind down in your journal just before you go to sleep. Then give yourself permission to let it all go until morning. Then you can pick up your journal and complete the tasks needing completion. The beautiful thing is, most of those tasks won’t look nearly as hard in the morning.

Drink some water. Fatigue is often a symptom of dehydration. Drink at least a cup of water when you think you might be dehydrated. If you feel even a little better, drink lots more! Many times I can re-energize myself just by drinking water.

If you don’t have time to rest or sleep, try putting your legs up the wall. Sit on the floor as close as you can to the wall with your legs parallel to the wall. Gently swing your legs up the wall and lay down on your back, allowing your knees to bend as much as you need to be comfortable. Set a timer for 5-7 minutes and shut your eyes. You will be AMAZED at how much better you feel after flooding your brain with nutrient rich blood and allowing your body to rest even for a short time.

Avoid caffeine as a rest replacement because it can disrupt your sleep when you have the opportunity to sleep. Instead, try rooibus tea. It has naturally energizing properties that will give you a boost without giving you a buzz. My favorite it Yogi Tea Chai Rooibus with a splash of almond milk. Eating an apple can also refresh and energize you. I don’t know why, but I guarantee it works. Exercise is also a known energy booster. Even a 10 minute walk outside will leave you refreshed and invigorated.

I hope this serves you. If you like it, please click like or consider sharing. My mission is to spread love and light far and wide. Every time you like or share, you are also helping to spread love and light.

All my love,

Brenda

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