Natural Energy Boosters

Instead of caffeine, try some of these natural energy boosters to avoid that exhausted feeling:

Jump out of bed in the morning...

Instead of grudgingly throwing off the covers, get up fast. Jumping from bed as opposed to hesitantly edging out provides you with an immediate burst of energy to start your day off right.

Drink more water...

Water keeps the sinuses hydrated and blood pressure normal, preventing headaches. Since muscles are 70% water, your muscles will be stronger and function better. Stronger muscles equals more energy to get things accomplished during the day.

Move it...

Get your blood flowing in the morning with a walk around the block or half an hour on the treadmill. When you get moving early in the day, you boost your metabolism which gives you tht extra energy kick you're looking for. When you hit that middle-of-the-stupor, pull yourself out it with a brisk walk.

Alternate showers between cold and hot...

Alternating the temperature of your shower increases metabolism and boots circulation, ridding your body of lethargy and giving you the pep you need. Taking a short bath at the end of the day can also hep to recharge your batteries and give you energy to finish the day.

Eat an apple...

Eating an apple in the morning can help wake you up. The chewing action required and the monosaccharide sugars that move right into your bloodstream get your body working fast.

Start a new hobby...

Try something as simple as joining the neighborhood tennis team, sewing, or learning to play an instrument. The thrill of getting out of the old routine provides an extended adrenaline rush and a new medium for excitement.

Show those pearly whites...

Laughing releases the chemical serotonin into your brain, reducing stress hormones and boosting your immune system. Intense laughter can provide a total body workout, and it's fun.

Spice it up...

There is no herb that increases blood flow faster than cayenne, and more blood means more oxygen coursing through your body giving your metabolism a big boost. Add cayenne to your meals or take a supplement that contains it.

Go outside...

Whether you garden, hike, bike ride, ski, skate, or play with the kids, escaping to the outdoors gives you a chance to breathe int he fresh air and rejuvenate. Planning a day away from the television and telephone will do wonders for your mood and fre you from those sluggish feelings that come from being trapped inside.

Take a 26-minute power nap...

Who says naps are just for kids? NASA did a study that showed pilots' performances improved by one-third after a twenty-six minute snooze. Naps over thirty minutes are harder to wake from and can make you groggy afterward. If you can't get away for a nap during the day, make sure to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep at night.

via Jenni Gasparrini