Morning Tips for All-Day Energy

Have you ever noticed that some days your energy levels are just fine, while others your energy tanks by lunch time (even after a good night's sleep)? I started paying attention to what I did each morning and how I felt later, and it turns out that what I did early on made a huge difference for the rest of the day.

Here are the three things that moved the needle the most for me. 

 Number 1 → Eat a protein-rich breakfast.

It’s so easy to rely on carbohydrates and caffeine, but that combo can give you a quick boost followed by a crash. A protein-rich breakfast helps stabilize your energy and appetite keeping you going all day. Some simple options:

→  Greek yogurt with berries

→  Eggs with spinach

→  Cottage cheese with fruit

→  A smoothie made with protein powder and greens (not with a fruit juice base)

→  Leftovers from last night’s dinner!

Number 2 → Get natural light within an hour of waking up (or as soon as the sun’s up, if you’re an early riser like me!).

This one’s easy.  Just go outside for a few minutes or stand by a window with real daylight. Natural light helps regulate your internal clock, wake up your brain, and improve your sleep later. It’s one of the easiest ways to boost your mood and your energy.

Number 3 → Move your body

This one is honestly one of my biggest energy creators. On days when I sit behind my desk most of the morning, it’s really hard for me to get moving later! Being intentionally active (a walk, some stretching, even doing chores or errands) during the morning makes a big difference. Try: 

→  A 10-minute walk (give yourself extra time, because chances are you’ll want to go longer).

→  A few strength exercises - wall squats, pushups or lunges is you can do them.

→  A simple stretch or yoga routine – if you start with just a couple of poses or stretches, it will feel good and you might want to do more than you thought. 

All of these actions work together to keep your body clock tuned and your blood sugar steady, all of which can bolster your energy. Choose one of these three habits and make it a morning priority this week.

I notice a difference almost immediately when I do these things…and I’ll bet you will, too.