by Miss Mindful, Joan Moran
In a previous article we talked about the increased use of caffeine to kick-start your day, and how there are many natural energy-boosting techniques that you could turn to instead.
Here are Four more natural techniques you can add as replacements for caffeine.
1. Green Drinks: The Energy Elixir.
I’m a devoted follower of the Green Drink brigade. A green drink that is rich in vitamins and minerals is a natural anti-aging elixir, and can boost your immune system and your energy far more than caffeine. I’ve just experimented with it and it’s true. Every morning I get up and make my blended smoothie with kale and spinach. I add Organic Barley Juice Powder, fruit (especially those high in antioxidants), flaxseed or hemp seeds, and alkaline water or coconut water. I’m partial to the smoothie as opposed to the juice because it’s higher in fiber. There are many recipes and a great variety of choices and you can get creative with them. Gaiam Life recommends a green drink a day, and, according to teachings of Dr. Ann Wigmore, nutritionist and holistic health practitioner, “consuming chlorophyll is like receiving a healthy blood transfusion.”
2. Stretch For an Energy Boost.
Stretching is an elixir for your body. It reduces stress and clears your mind. Breathe deeply into your stretches for 3-5 minutes and your muscles will get stronger and you body will be toned. Apply some modified stretching at our work desk for a quick energy boost during the day. Try hanging upside down for an ultimate boost! It stimulates neurotransmitters and gives you a shot of adrenaline and dopamine. Try gentle yoga, says Vyda Bielkus, yoga instructor and founder of the Health Yoga Life studio in Boston. “You’re moving the circulatory system and awakening the nervous system — basically bringing new life into the body. “When you’re stuck in an afternoon slump or waking up…try an invigorating Sun Salutation or Virabhadrasana (Warrior II), it could be exactly what your body needs to fight fatigue.
3. Take a Break from Electronics When Fatigue Overwhelms.
Humans are connected on an electronic grid that pretty much controls the way we think, feel and respond. We twist and turn from smartphones to computers to find data that helps us function in this fast paced world. It’s an unrelenting fatiguing and exhausting state of mind. There is more to life than that. So step away from electronics at night and take quiet time to embrace your inner life and surroundings. Enjoy nature, speak face to face with a friend, and please don’t look at your phone when dining or conversing. Last year, a Swedish study found that young people who used technology heavily had a pronounced risk for mental health problems like depression, stress, and sleep disorders. Other research has suggested that social media does not have its intended effect of drawing us together; rather it can make us lonely, jaded, jealous and mentally unhealthy.
4. Look Fabulous, Darling, You’ll Never Be Tired.
I used to watch my mother get up every morning and get dressed “to the nines” for work and put on her makeup. When she made an appearance in the kitchen to cook breakfast, she was ready to rock and roll! My mom was the rock star of energy and poise. You don’t have to be a genius to understand that looking fabulous gives your self-esteem a huge boost and that means your energy is high and mighty. I never leave my apartment without my earrings and a smile on my face.