How to Increase Energy: The 12 Minute Energy Break

As a mom, I often find myself worn down by the demands and sheer energy of my children. Um, plus the sleeplessness, the sicknesses that hit everyone in the house and everything else that’s part of being a mom.

I’ve wished someone would invent a magic energy pill.

Lifestyle habits affect our energy levels and research shows there are small things we can do to keep our energy level sustained throughout the day. Yes!

The 12 Minute Energy Break is great for those times when you are feeling sluggish or fatigued. Just 12 well- spent minutes can help boost your energy and get you going again.

 

Research shows there are small things we can do to keep our energy level sustained throughout the day. The 12-minute energy break is great for those times when you are feeling sluggish or fatigued. Twelve well-spent minutes can boost your energy and get you going again.

 

1. Hydrate.

Why it works:  According to the Mayo Clinic, minor dehydration is one of the most overlooked causes of low energy… and the easiest to fix.  Even slight dehydration can result in an energy nosedive. So before you do anything else, down a glass of water. Try keeping a water bottle with you for easy access throughout the day and to help track how much you’re drinking. First step… done!

 

2. Take a brisk walk. 

Why it works:   Experiments done by California State University show that only ten minutes of walking will increase your energy level and keep it up for 2 hours!  Make a habit of it and after three weeks you’ll notice overall sustained mood and energy improvement. Furthermore, walking helps clear your mind which also invigorates and refreshes. Now that’s a ten minute investment with a huge payoff!

{P.S. You don’t have to go outside to walk. If weather or napping little ones prevent you from getting out, there are many programs you can do inside your home. I’ve done Leslie Sansone’s program in the past and my current favorite indoor short and sweet is this 7 minute exercise app.}

 

3. Have a healthy snack. 

Why it works:   Food is fuel and the grade you use matters. What you’re looking for here is a combination of protein and produce for both immediate and sustained energy. The simple sugars found in produce are absorbed quickly, giving you an immediate energy boost while the protein will provide staying power. If you can get some fiber in there, it’s even better.

Here are some of my favorite energy snack combo’s:

  • Berries and yogurt
  • Nuts and raw veggies
  • Cheese and fruit
  • Raisins, nuts, and chocolate pieces
  • Hard boiled egg and orange slices
  • Peanut butter with chopped veggies

 

One last tip: Prepare your plan before you need it! Having it ready beforehand will ensure you act on it when the moment of need comes.  Waiting until you are exhausted is a good way to ensure it doesn’t get done.  So quick, take two minutes now to grab a water bottle or cup, decide on your exercise, and plan your snack. 

If you are looking for something more in-depth to address your energy level, I recommend this little guide: Energy Explosion: A 7 Day Guide to Jumpstart Your Energy.

This guide will walk step by step through how to increase your energy in 7 days

 

 

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