Simple ways to boost your energy

Four great ways to boost your energy levels throughout the day:

Lighten up

According to neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago, Alan Hirsch, M.D., exposing yourself to two minutes of bright light immediately after you have woken up will halt the production of melatonin. Melatonin is the body’s sleep hormone and the brain releases throughout the night to keep you sleepy. However, giving the eyes a blast of bright light first thing in the morning will signal to the brain that it is time to stop.

Straighten up

Standing tall, smiling and making eye contact will fool the brain into producing energising transmitters which will make you feel good.

Sweep up

Cleaning the house requires small bouts of activity which can be more energy boosting than a trip to the gym or a jog round the block. Researchers from top US University Yale have said the reason for this is because although one long workout will energise you for a few hours, smaller bursts of activity spread throughout the day will provide a steadier and longer lasting boost.

Brush up

A good nights sleep is one of the best ways we can ensure we are full of energy and it just so happens that personal grooming can help to achieve this. The simple act of brushing your hair works to stimulate thousands of nerve endings whilst relaxing tense muscle. According to the University of Miami this act can cut the production of stress hormones in half whilst helping people to drift off to sleep faster.

View the original article and full list of tips at ivillage.