With the year gradually winding down and the festive season just around the corner, this last lap of the year can be the hardest. If you’re feeling particularly rundown, we don’t blame you. Here are five ways you can combat fatigue and finish the year strong.
Get moving
We know it may feel like we’re asking for too much, but physical activity can do wonders for your health. Studies show that exercise boosts energy, lungs, heart and brain functionality. You will notice that consistent, moderate exercise will better maintain your energy throughout the day.
Hydrate
Our bodies are mainly comprised of water, so dehydration can affect our metabolism, causing us to feel sluggish. To avoid this, you needn’t drink six to eight 250 ml glasses of water per day as has been recommended in the past. Healthy adults simply need to drink to thirst, or if you need a marker – to chardonnay-coloured urine. If you exercise often, make sure you replenish with more water.
Make a conscious effort to eat better
Too much of the wrong food can lead to nutrient deficiencies and conditions that affect your metabolism and cause chronic fatigue. Make sure you are eating a variety of whole foods (foods that have been processed or refined as little as possible and are free from additives or other artificial substances) like fruits, vegetables, fish, eggs, unrefined carbs etc. It’s good to eat high-fibre and anti-inflammatory foods.
Whole foods are low on the glycaemic index, which means their sugars are absorbed by the body slowly and provide longer-lasting energy – as opposed to processed foods that spike your blood sugar and result in you crashing early in the day.
Enjoy the outdoors
Take a break and go for a stroll outside to refresh your mind and stimulate circulation. It will improve your mood and concentration and give you the jolt of energy you need to regain focus.
Sleep
As obvious as it may seem, getting between 7 – 9 hours of good quality sleep is crucial for you to keep energized throughout the. Try to get to bed earlier and maintain a sleep schedule that has you sleeping and waking up at the same time every day.
You might also want to read this post on the importance of exercise for mental health.
References
https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-017-0261-y
https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/workouts/boost-your-energy-level-with-exercise.aspx
https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/get-energy-back#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-stop-feeling-tired
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/quiet-your-mind-and-get-sleep/201501/11-ways-fight-fatigue
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nomanazish/2018/09/25/how-to-overcome-mental-fatigue-according-to-an-expert/#54c324521644
