Re-energize naturally

Pick up healthy habits to feel more energized:

Here's how:

Get more daylight:

- Make sure to catch some sunrays every day. Sunlight and darkness respectively trigger the release of hormones in your brain. Sunlight triggers serotonin, boosting mood and helps a person to feel calm and focused. Nighttime triggers melatonin, which helps a person to sleep. Without enough sun exposure, your serotonin levels can dip. Low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of depression triggered by the changing seasons, also known as SAD.

Get more movement:

- Exercise almost guarantees you'll sleep soundly, which equals more energy

- It can also lead to higher brain dopamine levels, which helps elevate mood and productivity

Eat for energy:

- Eat foods with a low glycemic index, like whole grains, high-fiber vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils such as olive oil

- High-carb foods have the highest glycemic index. Proteins and fats have a glycemic index close to zero

- Remember to hydrate. If your body is short of fluids, one of the first signs is a feeling of fatigue

Practice stress relief:

- Stress induced activities consume huge amounts of energy

- Explore relaxation therapies like meditation, self-hypnosis, yoga, sports

- Try to streamline and prioritize your must-do activities, delegate where possible

- And remember to breath - take deeper breaths anytime you feel the stress is hitting you to actively calm down