Elevate your energy (no caf feine required!)

Dial up your va-va-voom this winter with our expert tips

Even if you’d describe yourself as “in your element” at this time of year – your christmas food delivery slot was booked back in october, you’ve already wrapped and labelled all your family’s presents (including one for your husband’s cousin’s dog), and your winter wardrobe is full of sparkle – bursting with energy, you probably are not. short days, dark nights, battered immune systems and a lengthy to-do list mean our batteries are drained. But there are actions you can take to maximise your energy. try these!

Rise and shine

Your mornings can dictate your energy levels for the rest of the day, so it’s important you start it right. Follow these five steps to feeling fresh first thing.

1 Love Your Alarm (Yes, Really!)

most of us hate the sound of our morning alarm. To avoid that dreaded ring, set your top tune as your alarm tone. Studies published in Nature Neuroscience found that when you hear your favourite song, your brain

releases significant amounts of dopamine. Plus, music causes the entire brain to light up on 3D scans, which means it makes you feel more alert. Or why not try the Snoozle app (free), where you can wake up to a message from your loved ones?

2 Feeling Dreadful First Thing?

Then drag yourself out of bed and bend into a Downward Dog. Place your hands on the floor beneath your shoulders and push up into an inverted V – you’ll feel full of zing in no time. “The Downward Dog is a great morning yoga exercise, as it’s an inversion (done upside down!),” explains yoga expert Caroline Sandry (carolinesandry.com). “It sends blood to your brain, lifting your energy and helping you focus, while also stretching out the whole back of your body.”

3 Be a sunseeker

The “shine” is key in your “rise and shine” routine, as exposing yourself to daylight first thing will send a memo to your body’s internal clock that it’s time to feel wide awake and get moving. Simply eating your breakfast by a bright window can do the trick.

4 Get a (citrus) Burst Of Energy

The scent of oranges, lemons and grapefruit boosts your body’s production of happy hormone serotonin, reduces stress hormone norepinephrine and has a powerful effect on mental fog and irritability. For an instant pick-meup first thing, shower with a citrusscented body wash. For an all-natural shot of motivation, try Neom Energy Burst Body & Hand Wash, £16.

5 Go Green

Who said you can’t bottle energy? Ditch the usual morning coffee and turn over for our revitalising smoothie. “It’s packed full of vitamins and minerals,” says dietitian emer Delaney. “Plus, the avocado and spinach will release a continued source of energy throughout the day, to keep you feeling alert.” >>

“The Downward Dog yoga exercise sends blood to your brain, lifting your energy, while also stretching out the whole back of your body”