1. Have a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time every day. Staying up really late and sleeping in on the weekends may sound like fun, but it is really hard on your body. More and more research is showing that sleep is of the utmost importance for our health and wellbeing. Make it a priority.
2. Have an eating schedule. I know it's starting to sound like I'm suggesting you treat yourself like a toddler, but it's true. Our bodies like routine. We have an internal clock called our "circadian rhythm" that regulates our sleep and appetite schedules. If your eating times are constantly changing your body doesn't know when to anticipate food.
3. Keep your blood sugar stable. Ever been "hangry?" It's not pleasant for you or others around you. Maintain blood sugar by eating 3 meals per day plus snacks in between and combining carbs, protein and fat when you eat. For example, you could have toast topped with peanut butter and banana for breakfast. The toast and banana give you carbs, and the peanut butter has protein and fat.
4. Integrate movement into your day. As backwards as it sounds, nothing beats and energy slump like getting up and moving around. Take a quick walk around the block or do some stretches at your desk. Your body will appreciate the change in positions and the increased blood flow to your muscles.
5. Get some fresh air and sunshine every day. Get outdoors and feel the breeze on your skin, listen to the sounds around you, smell the fresh air. Mindfully engage all of your senses. Learn to appreciate the various weather conditions (which are more pleasant when you dress for the weather). Stand in the rain, crunch some leaves beneath your feet, catch snowflakes on your tongue, feel the beads of sweat run down your forehead when it's hot. There's something about being outside that is nurturing.
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