If you’ve noticed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you don’t have as much mental strength, and you tire much more quickly, then you are not the only one. The stress caused by isolation, lack of job security, and no end in sight make our lives filled with stress.
Unfortunately, even though in the short term, stress can be beneficial, helping us to find additional ways to overcome challenging situations, if you are stressed for a longer period of time, eventually, you’ll see that your productivity gradually drops. Seeing that this situation will stay with us for a little bit longer, we have prepared a list of tips to improve your energy levels.
Eat food that gives you energy
Foods that contain a lot of sugar, protein, and fat are the best to eat when you are in a situation where you need to replenish your energy. Foods like crackers, chocolate, and chips are especially good, but make sure that you don’t overindulge in them. If you do, then you will start to feel bad.
Drink beverages that give you additional energy
Drinking coffee is a great way to improve your mental strength and energy level. It helps you to concentrate better, so that you can finish tasks faster. If you can’t drink coffee (because of a health condition, for example), then there are other drinks that you can drink. These include tea, which helps you to calm down and let go of stress, as well as those that will refresh and energize you. You can even get a CBD energy drink now that helps you focus and gives you that extra get-up and go to survive another day!
Watch TV or listen to music
Some studies indicate that watching TV or listening to music can increase your energy level. It can help you relax and forget about the stressful situation you are in for a little while.
Get yourself in a positive mood
Emotions can have a profound effect on your energy level. If you are in a positive mood, then you will be able to think much more clearly, and this will help you to be more productive. If you are in a negative mood, then you will find it hard to focus on your work, and you won’t get anything done.
Delegate tasks to others
If you are in a situation where you are very stressed out, then it is not a good idea to take on more tasks. Instead, try to delegate some of the work to others. This will allow you to be more effective at completing your tasks.
Take breaks from your work
Even though it is good to take breaks from your work, make sure that it is not too often. If you take breaks too often, then it will be hard for you to get back into the flow of work. It is best if you take breaks after completing several tasks. This will allow you to refresh yourself and feel much more energised.
Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is very important for your energy levels. If you don’t get enough sleep, then you will be tired throughout the day, and this will make it hard to concentrate on your work. It is best if you get at least seven hours of sleep each night.
Take a Shower or Bath
Taking a shower or bath can help you relax, and it can also help you feel better about yourself. Studies show that taking a shower or bath can increase your energy level for up to two hours after taking a shower, and it can increase your happiness level for up to two days.
Meditate
Studies have shown that meditation can help your brain to function better and can help you to focus better on your tasks. This will allow you to be more productive.
Listen to music
Listening to music can have a profound effect on your energy level. It can make you feel relaxed and happy, so that you will have the energy and focus that you need to complete your tasks.
Workout
You’ve heard it all before, but getting regular exercise is one of the best ways to get more energy. Try different activities until you find something you enjoy. And then make it a habit. If you can’t exercise at home, look for a gym or community center that offers affordable classes or equipment rental. Cycling, walking, swimming, skipping rope, dancing, and yoga are all great exercises for the whole body and mind. Every little bit helps. Even if you can’t do much at first, try adding a few minutes each week until you’re up to 30 minutes a day.
Takeaway
It is clear to see that there are a lot of ways that you can use to increase your energy level. If you use these tips, then you will be able to get more done during the day, and this will help you to feel less stressed and more positive.
Tommy Williamson did his degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. He has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.
