Have you felt a change in your energy levels? You are not alone. Many people begin to notice a reduction in energy starting in their thirties, some in their twenties.
Unlike what most people tend to believe, you probably will not retain your youthful energy well into your forties and fifties. It typically starts to decrease gradually by the age of 35, but for many, it starts even sooner. But why is that the case, and what can you do to combat that?
For many, they start to lose their energy whenever they begin to have less to do, but there are many other contributing factors. Fortunately, personal trainer, Jolene Cherry, as well as the greater fitness community, have discovered several easy ways to raise your energy levels that are not significant lifestyle changes. Here are four of them:
1. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
After the age of 21, most people’s metabolisms begin to slow down, which means you will not be able to enjoy the same fast foods and junk foods you’re accustomed to unless you’re willing to deal with the consequences later.
A poor diet can cause you to feel sluggish, gain extra weight, and cause severe flare-ups with certain chronic illnesses.
The first towards increasing your energy levels should be eating right. Sticking to a well-balanced diet may be difficult at first, but allow yourself to cheat every once in a while – make sure it’s a treat and that it doesn’t become a regular habit.
2. Get More Sleep
Did you know? Up to around a third of the population does not get enough sleep, and the way it affects you only worsens with age.
While the general advice is to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep a night, every person is different, so it is crucial to figure out what works best and aim to get that amount of sleep every night.
If you have trouble falling asleep, try developing a good routine, such as reading a book or drinking a calming tea before bedtime, and limiting screen time an hour before you plan to sleep.
3. Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
You should limit alcohol consumption if you want to stay alert throughout the day and rest well at night. If you do want a drink, the recommended limit is one drink per day, and you should avoid drinking towards bedtime, as it may increase your chances of having to get up in the night to go to the restroom, thus interrupting and affecting your sleep.
That’s because alcohol is a natural sedative and diuretic, which means the more you drink, the more likely you are to be drowsy and have to use it.
4. Start an Exercise Regimen
Though it may sound counterintuitive, building exercise into your lifestyle can significantly increase your energy levels.
It doesn’t have to be a full-on workout, either. If you live a reasonably inactive lifestyle or work at a desk job where you’re sitting for 6-8 hours a day, take the stairs instead of the elevator or take a break and walk around the block or the office.
About Jolene Cherry: Jolene Cherry is the go-to yoga instructor and personal trainer in Portland, Oregon, for those looking to reach physical fitness and harmony in life. Combining her passion for travel, physical fitness, and meditation, she studied with renowned yoga instructors in Thailand as well as Hawaii. Jolene also offers guidance for healthy nutrition to strike a perfect balance in your life.