Sluggish, worn out, tired, no energy?  Does this ring a bell?  I am sure that many of us feel this way on a regular basis.  “How do I fight that sluggish feeling?” is a question I am frequently asked.  Here are a few tricks to help against this wiped out feeling.

• Take 15 minutes – The energy shortage most people feel comes from hectic schedules.  It could be an unexpected call from your child’s school that your child is sick, a new demand from your boss, unexpected company, loss of sleep.  The body responds by producing a brief, energizing fight-or-flight hormone called cortisol.  Your heart rate and blood pressure rise, which causes  your immune system to take a hit.  Take 15 minutes to recuperate.  Take a walk, sit in a dark room with your eyes closed and breathe.

•Water – If you are dehydrated; you are going to feel tired.  Try to get six to eight glasses of water per day.  You will see a big difference in the way your body feels.  Remember to keep hydrated because once you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

•Food – Overeating can add to tiredness.  Many foods we eat are greasy, sugary and salty.  These types of foods only increase that sluggish feeling.  Make time to cook healthy and watch your portions. The healthier you eat and the more water you drink, the better you will feel.

•Sleep — Something all of us lack.  The average woman needs at least eight hours of sleep to function at capacity.  With this also comes the notion of quality of sleep.  You can lie in bed for eight hours, but, if you are not getting uninterrupted sleep, you will be tired the next day.

•Exercise – Get your blood flowing and wake up with a good workout.  Exercising helps boost your energy level.  It can help zap away sluggishness.

•Allergies — Many people who feel their energy level is low may be due to unknown allergies. Allergies can interfere with breathing, which deprives muscles of oxygen.

•Depression – Even the mildest forms of depression and anxiety are associated with low levels of serotonin, a chemical in the brain, which can affect energy and moods.  If you do feel depressed, it may be a good idea to get help.

•Be optimistic – Surprisingly or not, people who are optimistic have more energy than people who are pessimistic.  When you are happy and your energy rises, your tension will lower.

• Positiveness – Be around positive people.  You know people who are busy but still have the energy of a 5 year old.  It can be contagious, so hang out with them.