Is it just me, or has the pace of life gone into overdrive lately?

Our job — or simply finding a job — demands more focus, ingenuity and brain power. Our family life requires more attention and participation. And most of us are bombarded by hundreds of messages and requests each day. This kind of pressure can leave even the best of us feeling exhausted, frazzled, scattered and anxious.

It’s no wonder the energy drink market has exploded. But as we’re learning, this form of ‘cheap energy’ can take its toll on our overall energy level, our health and our well-being. Many of today’s popular energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and sugar that result in side-effects ranging from nervousness and irritability, to abnormal heart rhythms and seizures, to that infamous ‘crash.’

Luckily, there are a number of natural and highly effective ways to boost energy that won’t result in the jitters, irritability or that dreaded crash. None of them require a lot of money or time, and they all have health benefits that extend beyond providing that boost of energy we sometimes so desperately need:

1. Breathe – Improve your energy level, focus and stamina by simply sitting up straight and taking slow and deep ‘belly breaths’ to increase oxygen to your brain.
2. Eat – Keep energy levels high and steady by eating small meals with small snacks in between that include complex carbohydrates (such as whole wheat crackers or bread) and protein (such as lean meats or cheeses and peanut butter).
3. Supplements – Find a formula from a reputable company, such as Clear N·R·G Plus, a blend of homeopathic ingredients and herbs formulated to naturally, safely and effectively increase energy and mental alertness, boost physical performance and reduce stress.
4. Drink – A cool glass of water with mint or a wedge of orange will boost energy. There are also natural drinks and teas formulated to boost energy.
5. Walk – If you are in the middle of an extended period of work or concentration and feel yourself getting tired or burnt out, take a 10-15 walk in the fresh air to clear and rejuvenate your mind.

It is important to understand that some methods will work better than others depending on the individual. Therefore, I suggest you keep a journal where each day you record what steps you took to increase your energy and the resulting effects.
Have you used any of these methods to increase your energy? Do you have other tried and true methods? Please take a moment and share your experience with us. Thank you in advance for your contributions.

Writen by Stas’ T. Ozog III, L. Ac. (Licensed Acupuncturist), Dipl. A. & Dipl. C.H. (NCCAOM) [Diplomate of Acupuncture and Diplomate of Chinese Herbology (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine)], MTOM (Masters in Traditional Oriental Medicine)