Ways to Boost Energy

Whether you are a full-time working mom, part-time working mom, or a stay at home mom – you know what I mean!  Monday through Friday is a BIG blur (throw in travel and it becomes a whirlwind).  For me, a typical weekday is:

Wake up, get ready, get kids ready, drop kids off at school, go to work, come home from work, eat dinner, do homework, bath time, reading time, fall face-first on the bed.  Rinse and repeat.

I am always on the lookout for hints and tips on how I can gain more energy to make it through the week, happy and awake.

Here are ways to boost energy:

• Try hard to get up before the kids do and get in some cardiovascular exercise.  Walk around your neighborhood, or pop Just Dance into the Wii.
• COFFEE in the a.m. along with a breakfast that is a combination of protein and fiber.
• Make a to-do list – not to freak yourself out at how much you have to do – but to organize the 5 million thoughts that are going through your head.
• Try to take short walks during the workday – get your blood flowing, clear your mind.
• Sit in front of a computer all day like me?  Every 20 minutes take a break for at least 20 seconds and look at something 20 feet away (20-20-20 rule).
• Afternoon slump – mine starts at 3 p.m.  This is when I go for the unhealthy snacks, while my mind is screaming, “DON’T DO IT!!”.  Instead of coffee, opt for green tea.  Try snacks such as a banana with peanut butter; apple slices and cheese, hummus and veggies, guac and chips, or edamame.
• Limit carbs during dinner, turn on the radio/MP3 player, and start to unwind.
• When the kids go to bed, try your hardest to wind down.  Do a super fast clean up of the kitchen/living room/etc. and get your PJs on.  I unwind by reading a book.  Some people like to watch TV – may I recommend HGTV?  LOL  Watch something light…
• Can’t sleep and it is the middle of the night?  If you are up because you have so much on your mind, keep a notepad and pen on your nightstand.  Jotting down what I need to do the next day “releases” it from my mind for the time being.

I hope this helps you!  What do you do to get more energy?