Beat the daily blues
Most of us have a low point during our day. This is a time when we feel down in the dumps in the middle of the day. Our spirits go down and the energy flags. Many of us have been searching for a solution to this mid-day blues phenomenon. Well, help is at hand. The following few tips will have you raring to go whenever you need a pick-me-up.
1. Try to get up early in the morning. This is more in sync with our natural body clock. Also, get a good dose of the natural morning light. There’s nothing like natural light to beat the blues. You can use light-boxes to expose yourself to good amount of light, too. Take a stroll outside and feel the sun on your face.
2. Reduce the amount of carbohydrates in your diet. Although this might seem to go against the prevailing wisdom, recent research indicates that reduced amount of carbohydrates and increased amount of protein in the diet helps one feel more energetic. So, daily intake of carbs should be kept below 150 grams.
3. Delay the morning coffee. This might seem totally counter productive to some, but there is sound logic behind it. The effects of morning coffee wear out by the time you really need a jolt of energy, generally late in the afternoon. A little before that time is the perfect time to have that cuppa, as it will tide you over that critical time.
4. Keep regular eating habits. Our body expects its intake of fuel at specific mealtimes. So if you do not provide it the expected source of energy when it requires, you will start feeling a lack of energy. Sticking to regular mealtimes will take care of this problem.
5. Relax regularly. You don’t have to devote hours to relaxation, not even 15 or 30 minutes. You can actually take the relaxation doses in short bursts! And this is more helpful. Find a place where you won’t be disturbed, close your eyes, observe your breath, and think happy thoughts. Do this for 2-3 minutes a few times every day.
6. Take a walk if you are not feeling that great. This will get your blood flowing and also expose you to some natural light.
7. Listen to some music. Your favorite music has amazing restorative powers.
8. Try not using the computer before bedtime. Close exposure to bright light may delay your sleep and make you feel groggy the day after.
Try out these simple suggestions, and feel the surge of energy within right when you need it!