Build energy levels to get through latest lockdowns
During 2020 COVID impacted almost every facet of our everyday lives from our health, to time spent with loved ones, through to our finances.
This has taken its toll on energy levels and lockdown three is set to bring further feelings of stagnation, exhaustion and lack of motivation.
Recent research found that 37 per cent of Brits claim their energy levels are the lowest they have ever been. But there are ways to re-energise and gain fresh momentum for 2021 to combat this epidemic of exhaustion.
Over a third of Brits say that working from home has made them the most lethargic they have ever felt while 23 per cent claim their normal methods of replenishing energy levels take too much time or cost too much to be realistic.
Tips from an energy specialist on how we can revitalise and regain the feel good factor are as follows ...
1 The right amount of exercise and sleep will bring most benefits to energy levels. According to a study conducted by Appalachian State University, the best time to exercise for weight management and better sleep is at 7am. Exercising and sleeping well can make you more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning. During lockdown move this time back to daylight hours.
2 Being confined to our homes during winter impacts Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D helps our bodies keep healthy and fights infections; as such, exposure to light is essential- especially during lockdown. Try to spend breaks outside- go for a walk. If the weather is poor, make sure your food is rich in Vitamin D-oily fish, mushrooms, fortified dairy and non-dairy substitutes.
3 Use caffeine to your advantage and if you don’t drink tea or coffee, energy strips can provide a fast pick me up to help you perform at your peak.
4 Practice mindfulness and simple meditation for a host of cognitive benefits. Allowing yourself time to relax, quiet the mind, and focus on regular, smooth breathing to boost the brain’s executive functions, reduce impulsive and emotional behaviour, improve mood, and leave you feeling refreshed.
5 Make sure that you drink enough water. A study conducted at the University of Connecticut’s Human Performance Laboratory found that being even mildly dehydrated can have effects on your mood, energy level and ability to think clearly. Fatigue can be caused by a lack of hydration in your cells.
6 A good diet is an easy way of making sure that your energy levels are up- while we are at home, learning to cook and trying new recipes is sure to be fun, and can also help to stimulate your brain! To make sure you are fuelling your body with energy, you must make sure that the foods you are eating benefit your gut microbiome- try incorporating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit into your everyday meals. A good mixture of protein, iron, fibre and carbohydrates will help your body release the energy it has gained slowly throughout the day- helping you stay energised for longer.
7 Research shows that you can make yourself more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning with a power nap, particularly around the middle of the day. A nap is especially effective if you’ve not had a good night’s sleep.
Energy expert John Nolan-Neylan added: “The entirety of last year has had a huge strain on all our energy levels, and further restrictions have many of us feeling down in the dumps.
“To overcome this, it is really important for us to perk up and stay positive. Revvies Energy Strips are another way to remain energised and alert - used by elite athletes and sports people across the globe.”