May 2016 | Page 106

NEVER SKIP A WORKOUT You should be working out several days a week for at least thirty minutes. I’m a big advocate for always getting in a good workout that works up a sweat, but even a two-mile walk after dinner or on your lunch hour can do wonders for your energy levels. This will improve your sleep, too! in the day when coffee wears off. Also, sugary drinks, alcohol, and large meals can negatively affect your energy levels, so beware of those as well. DRINK ENOUGH WATER Not drinking enough water can make you feel sluggish, bloated, and tired. Have a water bottle on hand and be sure that you’re filling it regularly, getting at least sixtyfour ounces each day. TAKE TIME TO RELAX People try to pack too much into their days and suffer the consequences when it comes to energy and brain power. You will be more productive and more able to take on complicated tasks if you take some time to decompress each day. Try yoga, meditation, or just quiet reflection, and make it a point to let go of the feelings that hold you back and slow you down. THE DON’TS Avoid using caffeine to give you energy. In the long run, people end up relying on caffeine, then have to keep adding more to get the same boost, or have a bad crash later STAY POSITIVE Looking forward to a fun summer and plenty of sunshine and fresh air? On track for a special event, milestone, or vacation this year? Remind yourself of the things you’re looking forward to and let yourself enjoy the positivity of enjoying the journey. If you’re feeling fatigued lately and finding that you don’t have enough energy to make it through these early spring days, try to find what’s bothering you and make a positive change. You may be taking on too much or sabotaging yourself by using time stressing when you should be relaxing or organizing your day. Summer will be here before you know it, and now is the perfect time to set a schedule that will work for you as we enter the warmer months! Vanessa Chamberlin is a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Lifestyle Coach, and author of The FireDriven Life: How to Ignite the Fire of Self-Worth, Health, and Happiness with a Plant-Based Diet. For more information, please visit www.vanessachamberlin.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VanessaChamberlin/ or Twitter @vkchamberlin. 106 | Eydis Magazine