Life

12 Easy Ways To Instantly Boost Your Energy

by Nathalie O'Neill

We all get that feeling — you're lying in bed on a weekend morning, it's a gorgeous day outside, there are a million things for you to do, yet all you really want is to laze around and do a whole lot of nothing. And sure, sometimes, the powerful call of soft bedding and cuddling with your cat might be too strong to ignore. But other times, we could all go for some easy ways to boost energy that will get us up and moving already.

Since you just know you will be happy you got up and about in the end, I've rounded up a few simple tips to trick your body into feeling pumped. So if you are trying to break free of the endless hours spent mindlessly scrolling through your Instagram feed, procrastinating the day away, keep in mind these 12 easy ways to boost your energy and you'll be sure to feel ready to rumble in no time. And hey, when you've checked off everything on your to-do list, Kendall Jenner and her Instagram selfies will still be there for you to peruse to your satisfied heart's content. Check out the list below and, as the wise T. Swift once said, just shake it off (your low energy, that is).

1. Eat Breakfast

We've heard countless times that it's the most important meal of the day, yet many of us skip it in the whirlwind of weekday mornings. Make life easier — and tastier — with some make-ahead breakfasts you can enjoy on the go.

2. Take a Break

Taking a 10 to 20 minute break to just relax at some point in your day helps you recharge your batteries to take on the rest of your tasks.

3. Exercise

Even a 10-minute power walk every day helps. Working out is a great natural energy booster, since it sends oxygen-rich blood surging through your body to your heart, muscles, and brain.

4. Drink Water

You may not actually need eight glasses a day, but drinking water never hurts. Make sure you always have a glass or bottle nearby to stay hydrated.

5. Breathe

A few deep breaths (think of all those breathing-from-the-diaphragm tricks you learned in yoga class) will get your blood pumping and boost your energy for the day.

6. Get Some Light

Bonus points for the good old sunlight. Natural sunlight reduces stress hormones, lowers blood pressure, and increases serotonin levels, leaving you feeling all happy and upbeat. Take a walk or just lounge in the sun for a few minutes when you feel your energy levels start to drop.

7. Laugh

That silly meme actually helps you release feel-good hormones into your blood stream, which are a guaranteed energy boost.

8. Stand Up Straight

Your parents were right to nag you with this one — simply straightening your spine can give you a great stamina boost.

9. Take a Power Nap

I know, I know, sleeping doesn't seem like the way to beat the lazies, but a quick midday power nap can do wonders for your energy levels. Just make sure to keep it no longer than 20 minutes, otherwise you risk throwing off your sleep cycle.

10. Eat Some Magnesium

Magnesium is a key mineral that helps turn carbohydrates into energy. Snack on some almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts to get your dose. Other good sources include whole grains and dark green vegetables.

11. Stretch

Yoga will do amazing things for your energy, and it helps to eliminate any stress you might be feeling. Some simple desk stretches are a great substitute in a pinch.

12. Turn Up the Tunes

There is nothing like an upbeat song to get your feet tapping and your energy levels up. This one is even more effective if you sing along.

Images: Dương Trần Quốc/Unsplash; Giphy