8 Ways to Feel More Energized

Amidst the hustle & bustle of work, family & everyday life it's no surprise that we can feel drained & lose our spark.  Here are eight ways to grab more gusto... naturally!

• FACT:  56% of women rely on coffee to rise and shine in the morning, according to a 1,008-person poll sponsored by the natural products company ChromaDex.  Not super surprising considering modern women are so exhausted, but you don't  have to rely on caffeine to feel perkier in the A.M.  Just try these expert-recommended natural energy-boosting tips.

1.  Light Up!  Light is nature's way of telling your internal clock that it's time to start the day, says Michael Terman, Ph.D., author of the upcoming book Reset Your Inner Clock.  Leave the shades open or flip on a light switch in the morning to simulate sunlight.

2.  Hop Out of Bed!  Resist the urge to hit the "snooze" button - those extra minutes of sleep will just leave you groggy later, says Terman.  You're much better off getting out of bed when you first wake up.

3.  Get Moving!  And once you're up, do some morning yoga, suggests Kimberly Kingsley, energy coach, author of The Energy Cure.  

4.  Eat Something with Coconut Oil!  The triglycerides in coconut oil are a fast-acting energy source that your body can use more quickly than coffee, says Kingsley.  

5.  Have a Protein-Rich Breakfast!  A protein-packed A.M. meal helps your brain cells function properly, says Joy Bauer, R.D., author of The Joy Fit Club.  Protein helps to crush cravings all day long.

6.  Avoid Late-Night Eats!  Eating a heavy meal right before bed can leave you with a "food hangover" the next morning, says Bauer.  If you're itching for a late-night bite, keep it light and under 150 calories so you won't feel bloated & tired in the A.M.

7.  Guzzle Water!  Skimping on H20 can leave you feeling drowsy, says Bauer. 

8.  Sleep More Every Day!  The only way to make up for lost ZZZ's is more sleep.  Terman suggests getting to bed 45 minutes earlier Monday to Friday, which adds up to four hours of extra sleep for the week - so there's no reason you won't feel fully rested!




Reposted from:  http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/natural-energy-boost