With all of the festive events and planning, December can be a really busy month. So, what can you do if you are beginning to feel run ragged during the holiday season? Nicki Williams, founder of Happy Hormones for Life, shares five simple ways to get an energy boost in no time at all.
Breathe
Whenever you have a minute, pop on a meditation soundtrack and take some time to breathe.
"Even if you don't have a lot of time during your day, you can easily do 10 deep belly breaths every morning and every night - this can really help reduce your stress hormones and give you more energy," she insisted.
Have the right breakfast
Starting the day with a balanced breakfast can make all the difference to energy levels.
"Include protein such as eggs, natural yoghurt, oats, nuts, seeds, as this will help stabilise your blood sugar until lunchtime so you don't have a mid-morning dip," the award-winning nutritionist noted. "Or make a quick protein shake with some almond milk and a good quality protein powder. Easy to take with you, filling, and nutritious."
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Eat and cook with coconut oil
If you're ever unsure about what cooking oil to use, then opt for coconut.
"This is a good fat that won't make you fat – it helps to increase your metabolism and give you energy. It's one of the healthiest oils to cook with. You can add it to smoothies for a great energy boost too," said Nikki.
Minimise your exposure to toxins
While candy cane and pine scents are everywhere during the festive season, they aren't necessarily the best fragrances to be around for our health.
"Filter your water, eat organic, switch cleaning and laundry products to natural brands, and get rid of 'fake smells' like scented candles and air fresheners," the expert advised.
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Eat energy-producing nutrients
Even when you are eating out or on the go, try to add some veggies and fruits to each meal.
"B vitamins, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium are all required nutrients to produce energy in your body. These can all be found in vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans/lentils, fish and meat. Get your iron and B12 levels tested at the doctor as you may need to supplement," she added.
(Cover Media/Reuters)