It’s that time of the year when the seasons change, holidays are around the corner, end of the year deadlines are approaching, yet you feel run down, tired and grasping for energy. Are you waking up in the morning with the first thought in mind being “I’m so exhausted!” and the day hasn’t even begun? You finally make it out of bed and find yourself looking in the mirror noticing puffy eyes, dark circles, swollen cheeks, dry skin and frizzy hair. Not to worry, this is often normal and there are simple ways to combat fatigue and find ways to stay energized during this season.

1. Get-Up and Get-Moving

I know this is probably the last advice you want to read, especially when you are feeling too tired to even get up, but it’s the key to feeling better. It doesn’t have to be a hard-core 1-hour exercise at the gym. Start with a brisk walk outside instead. Studies have shown that exercise boosts energy levels and puts your organs back to work. You will instantly feel not only more energized but also more confident and will notice an obvious radiance in your face. To get back in the routine, begin with short walks turning them into speed walking and eventually try running. Each day try a different exercise to keep it interesting and get your body moving in different ways. If you don’t like the gym, pick a sport you enjoy and put your body to work. Trust me you will find it very rewarding.

2. Meditate

Physical movement and exercise of the body is important, but don’t forget about the mind. Meditation helps to eliminate stress, anxiety, boosts your immunity, mood and brings mental clarity. It is important to get rid of stressful thoughts that keep our mind occupied and tired. With a clearer mind and less mental clutter, you will feel refreshed, less tired and more engaged in important tasks that require your attention. It will also increase your mental strength and focus helping with memory retention and better cognitive skills. To meditate doesn’t necessarily mean you have to attend classes or pay for sessions. Easy at home, or in the office exercises require only a bit of your time and can make a big difference over time. Sometimes, just taking a few minutes to yourself, closing your eyes and practicing breathing is a great step towards a clear mind.

3. Make a Homemade a Face mask

Dry, tired skin? The best remedy is to apply a hydrating, nourishing and antioxidant-rich face mask to replenish tired skin and give it a nice new glow. I’d recommend a home-made rejuvenating mask made from avocado and honey. Mix 1 small ripe avocado with 2 spoons of honey and apply to clean face for 15-20 minutes. Both avocado and honey are great antioxidants that provide the skin with moisture, vitamin E, and brightening factors. It helps to even out skin tone and bring tired skin back to life.

4. Apply tea bags to eyes

Steep some green or black tea (2 tea bags) and while you can sip on another great antioxidant don’t forget to save the tea bags. Once you steep your tea, place two tea bags in the fridge until they cool down. By the time you are done drinking your tea, you can relax and apply the cold tea bags on your eyes. This will reduce swelling and irritation around the eyes, soothing and calming them while you relax. Sit back and enjoy.

5. Eat Antioxidants & Energy boosting foods

When feeling tired and stressed, diet plays an important role in keeping your body energized and well functioning. Including as many antioxidant-rich foods in your diet as possible is crucial to keep your body healthy and free from damaging toxins. It is also important to incorporate immune-boosting ingredients to keep the body functioning and protect it from illness. Iron-rich foods including lentils, beans, spinach, and broccoli give the body energy and deliver oxygen to cells. Keep your diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein as it will help balance your body and give you more energy. Try to switch coffee, which causes high and low peaks of energy, with green or black tea instead. It’s important not to skip breakfast and eat a nutritional first meal filled with healthy protein such as eggs, yogurt with antioxidant fruits, oatmeal or nuts. Overall, to stay healthy and energized keep your diet as wholesome and nutrient rich as possible throughout your day. Avoid highly processed, high in sugar foods that will only make you more tired and drain your energy.

6. Water! Water! Water!

I know this may be an obvious one, but we often don’t realize that dehydration drains your energy and causes fatigue. It also decreases concentration and alertness. Always remember that you should consume 8 glasses (8oz) or 2 liters of water per day. Drinking enough water is also essential for keeping your body detoxified and cleansed from toxins in your body.

There you have it. Try out these 6 tips over the upcoming weeks and see if you notice a difference in your energy levels right before the Holidays.

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