Our experts offer five ways to boost your energy and make the most of a busy week..
Get going in the morning
Boost your circulation in the shower by sweeping a loofah or body brush up from your feet towards your heart and down from your shoulders. This will make you feel “alive and energised”, says well-being expert Liz Tucker. For an aromatherapy energiser, put a few drops of citrus oil, such as lemon, orange or grapefruit, on the floor of your shower cubicle before stepping in. Feeling brave? Turning the tap to cold is an unbeatable ‘wake-up’ tonic.
Make an energy-boosting playlist
Studies show listening to ‘uplifting’ music boosts stamina, and tracks with a reading of 150 beats per minute are most effective. If you’re facing a busy day, plug in your iPod while driving or take a walk while having a listen to reap the musical benefit as well as the increased levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin.
The Ultimate Feel Good Songs Playlist
Chew peppermint gum
The scent of peppermint is known to help decrease fatigue. Studies have found that chewing gum boost alertness and concentration. Research from the University of Northumbria in the UK found that in a test involving word recall, peppermint-gum chewers’ scores were up to 36% higher than those of non-chewers.
Keep a bag of mixed seeds or nuts
Your body needs a ready supply of nutrients, including B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals such as zinc and iron to make the best use of the energy found in the carbohydrates you eat. Keep a bag of mixed seeds or nuts in your handbag for a nutrient fix, or try roasting pumpkin and sunflower seeds with soy and spices. Sprinkle on salads and stir-fries.
PLUS: Find Out If You Could Have A Nut Allergy
Make a refreshing drink
A super smoothie is filling and will boost your energy- try these delicious combos.
Banana and strawberry: Combine 1 frozen banana (cut into chunks), 125g natural, low-fat yoghurt and 225g fresh strawberries in a blender and whizz until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into a glass and sprinkle with grated nutmeg to taste.
Melon and orange: Combine ½ small melon (peeled, deseeded and chopped), 1 large orange (peeled, deseeded and pips removed), juice of 1 lime, a handful of fresh mint (optional) and 2tbsp natural, low-fat yoghurt in a blender and whizz until smooth and creamy.
