6 Lesser-Known Ways to Boost Your Energy Throughout the Day

Pinpoint the Energy Zapper

Before reaching for a strong cup of coffee, pause and pinpoint what’s causing your dip, said Lisa Kaplin , PsyD, a psychologist and life coach who helps clients live full lives. There are many reasons why you might feel drained and depleted. For one, it’s normal for energy to wax and wane throughout the day, according to Joyce Marter , LCPC, a therapist and owner of Urban Balance , a counseling practice in the Chicago area. Other common culprits include hunger, thirst, not enough sleep or physical activity and even your mindset, Kaplin said. “When you are frustrated, angry, upset, fearful [or] resentful, your emotional energy dramatically decreases and with it your physical activity.”

Even positive stressors can make you tired. This usually happens “after the body comes down from the adrenaline rush,” Marter said. She experiences this kind of fatigue following her 3-hour lectures at Northwestern University. Once you identify your trigger, make a positive change. Drink a bottle of water, eat a nutrient-rich food, go to bed early, or give yourself a rest after rigorous tasks. On the days Marter lectures, she leaves the afternoons unscheduled.

Practice Mindfulness

“Meditation and mindfulness practices [help] to quiet ‘mind chatter’ and connect with your deeper essence,” Marter said. If you’re new to meditation, start by sitting in a comfortable position, closing your eyes and taking several deep breaths. Say a mantra – such as “peace” – or visualize a calming image – such as the ocean. You’ll also find many different meditations online to guide your practice. Our energy naturally ebbs and flows, Marter said. “The ebbs are necessary for reflecting and rebooting ourselves.” There are many physical and emotional reasons your energy dips. So before reaching for a fix, figure out what’s triggering your dip. Then make the change.