MAGAZINE ARTICLES
September 2008
Spring Energy Tips
1) Sleep Easy
A good night’s sleep can make or break your energy levels during the day. Create the optimum sleeping environment by not eating 2 hours before bedtime, keep lighting low and circulate fresh air around the room. Establish soothing routines such as meditation, reading a book, relaxing music or massage to unwind rather than activities that stimulate your mind such as watching TV or working too late.
2) Break the Fast Every Morning
A healthy breakfast is the only way to kick-start your energy levels for the whole day. Choose one that includes wholegrain, fruits and protein for the most effective energy hit, which will also curb cravings later in the day for unhealthy snacks.
3) Choose Your Meals Wisely
Reach for protein packed food at lunchtime such as fish, poultry, beans or vegetables to keep your energy levels up and carry you through the day. As tempting as it might sometimes be, try not to overeat at any mealtime as your stomach will struggle to digest the excess food and make you lethargic.
4) Ditch the Fad Diets And Eat Fresh Produce Often
Yoyo eating habits and fad diets simply don’t work as they aren’t sustainable in the long term. At best you will drop a couple of temporary kilos and at worst you will do long term damage to your metabolism and energy levels. It simply isn’t worth it, especially when a responsible and balanced eating plan with loads of fresh produce is far more likely to have long-term benefits.
5) Watch Your Caffeine Intake
Whilst the initial hit of caffeine may help kick-start your day, over indulgence can have a negative impact on your energy levels and affect sleeping patterns. Moderation is key and keep in mind that your intake may be higher than thought if you consume coffee, tea, chocolate and certain soft drinks.
6) Slow Down
Many of us feel pressured to always run at full speed in fear of losing control or disappointing others but the truth is everyone needs time to chill out and recharge our energy levels. Take time every day to relax, breathe and simply exist in your surroundings.
7) Know When To Speed Up Too
Pay attention to the saying “If you don’t use it you lose it!” Exercise is fundamental in overall health and goes hand in hand with a balanced dietary plan. Just 30 minutes per day of cardiovascular activity is proven to improve physical performance and weight-loss and reduce depression, exercise will keep your energy levels high and your body in top shape.
8) Set Goals…and Reach Them!
Think about what you want to achieve over the next 12 months and then get started! Be it a promotion, a holiday, a course, a dress size, whatever. Create a realistic plan, keep to it and don’t forget to enjoy the journey as well as the rewards.
9) Come On, Get Happy
If you are feeling flat, give your serotonin levels an instant boost by getting outside and active. Surround yourself with your family, friends, pets and anyone else that makes you feel good. Indulge in your passions, enjoy life to the max and your mood and energy levels will follow.
10) Give Your Life An Energy Make-Over
The best way to maximise your energy levels and see immediate results? Try not to pick and choose from the above tips but embrace all of them and find ways to fit them in your life. The winning combination of your new attitude plus NIVEA’s Energy Fresh deodorant will give you unstoppable confidence and protection to embrace the day.
