All of us have moments or even periods when we feel drained and our energy level is extremely low. Not only the lack of sleep is responsible but also many other tiny things that you do (or not) can lead to general exhaustion. A few examples below:
- You skip the physical exercise when you feel tired
If you also think that you will save energy if you do not go to the gym when feeling drained, you are wrong: regular exercise boost your well-being and increases your level of energy on long term.
- You do not drink enough water
Moderate dehydration – up to 2% – is to blame for a slight drowsiness. Dehydration causes a decrease in the blood volume, therefore a bigger effort for the body to carry the oxygen to muscles and organs.
- Your diet does not contain enough iron
An iron deficiency can cause irritability, weakness and concentration problems. The lack of iron in blood hampers the transport of oxygen in cells. It can be found in foods such as beef, tofu, eggs, vegetables, nuts.
- Perfection wears you out
Trying always to be perfect can be exhausting and contributes to a constant state of dissatisfaction that affects the general condition of the body. Set realistic objectives and leave room as well for mistakes or unforeseen events.
- Making a mountain out of a molehill
Exaggerating some situations and pessimism cause anxiety which eats up your energy without you noticing. Before seeing the worst case scenario, take a moment and try to look on the bright side. Protecting your state of mind, you will have more resources to find a solution if something really goes bad. Meditate, take a walk, talk to someone who can help you see things more objectively.
- You skip breakfast
During the night our body rests, but it still consumes resources. This is why a breakfast rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins or whole-grain cereals is the best first time in the morning investment for your wellness and energy for the whole day.
- Fast-food is your first option
The fast food contains a lot of sugar or a lot of salt and simple carbohydrates that rapidly raise blood sugar level. Sudden variations in this index are followed by similarly sudden drops that cause imbalances in the functioning of the body.
- You cannot say no
Many of the things you accept out of diplomacy or of the fear to say no wear you out. Refuse to do overtime if you do not have to, refuse obligations that are a waste of time, do not wait for people who are late. All these contribute to a decrease in energy level and an increase in anxiety.
- You do not keep your things neat and tidy
The tidier your work area, the better you will concentrate, so you will save time and resources.
- You work during your free time
Checking your e-mails during you free time keeps you connected to work, so it does not really charge your batteries, but on the contrary, it will have the opposite effect when you get back. Moreover, total disconnection on holidays, at weekends or outside office hours increases productivity and creativity, therefore you will be more efficient in a shorter period.
- You drink too much coffee
Having one coffee in the morning is even advisable, two are welcome and three (if weak) are almost acceptable. But a continuous t intake of caffeine throughout the day keeps your brain permanently alert, and the quality of your sleep is low which can bring you to a vicious circle of exhaustion.
- You ruin your resting rhythm at weekends
Lost nights cannot be compensated with a long Sunday sleep but they only turn your biological rhythm upside down making the next days’ morning extremely difficult. It is preferable to wake up at your usual daily time and to sleep 20 minutes at noon. The energy infusion is more efficient than a long sleep ruining your rhythm.