Sleep Sapper: Sloppy Bedtime Habits
Surprise, surprise: The number one reason most of us are exhausted is that we're simply not sleeping enough. How to tell? "If you wake up feeling groggy instead of refreshed, you're not getting enough sleep," .... While some people can get by on just a few hours, it's best to shoot for at least eight hours a night. To ensure an adequate amount of shut-eye, practice good sleep habits: Go to bed and get up at roughly the same time each day (even on weekends), use your bed for sleeping only (and for sex, of course) and put the kabosh on any noises or lights that could be disturbing your slumber.
Sleep Sapper: A Stimulating Diet
There are six common dietary pitfalls that can affect your energy level throughout the day...not drinking enough water (dehydration makes you feel sluggish), eating too little protein (protein keeps organs functioning and energy levels high), eating too few or too many carbohydrates (carbs keep blood sugar levels in check so you feel wide awake throughout the day), relying on caffeine (if you need it to be alert, you're drinking too much — try to limit your intake to approximately one cup of coffee or two diet sodas per day), not timing meals well (waiting too long to refuel results in low blood sugar and energy levels) and not eating a balanced diet (which means you're probably missing out on important vitamins and minerals). Make just a few of these changes...and you'll feel more vigorous almost immediately.
Sleep Sapper: Lack of Exercise
Contrary to popular belief, exercise shouldn't make you feel more tired; indeed, working up a sweat is actually energizing. Physical activity conditions your body so that everyday tasks are more effortless... For maximum sleep benefits, try to work out at least three times a week for at least 20 minutes a shot.
On days when you're especially weary, try some simple stretches, to relax you and get your blood pumping.
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