yawnI’ve been sooo sleepy lately. I don’t know whether it’s the fact that I’ve decided to start cutting back on the coffee or what, but I’ve been feeling incredibly lethargic. Thus, it seemed like utter kismet that I found this Redbook article, which offers "22 ways to tackle life’s biggest energy zappers." Now, some of them may seem obvious, but if you’ve been suffering from lack of energy like I have lately, it’s probably a good idea to brush up on the basics, plus learn a thing or two. Couldn’t hurt, right? Here are a few highlights from the list:

  • Have breakfast, no matter what - even if you’re not hungry. I’m pretty good about eating breakfast, but I know a lot of people skip it because they’re just not hungry in the morning. Just eat something small! Cereal, a banana with peanut butter…anything is better than nothing.
  • Eat smaller meals more frequently. Big meals make you sluggish, and going for long periods between meals can mess with your blood sugar. I’m definitely guilty of going too long without eating during the day. I said I was good about breakfast, right? Well, not so much with lunch. Or midday snacks.
  • Eat more fiber! I always thought fiber was mainly for digestive issues, but I was wrong. It really helps sustain your energy levels too.
  • Drink lots of water. Again, something that I definitely skimp on during the day, and something that I don’t really associate with feeling fatigued (even though the two are closely intertwined).
  • Don’t dress like a slob just because you feel like one. Okay, I’m paraphrasing a little here, but that’s the essence of this tip. And it’s so true! As the article says, "…it helps to look in the mirror and see an energizing image — not a deflating one that confirms and reinforces your internal state." How often do you throw on jeans a boring t-shirt and then run out the door with no makeup and wet hair when you’re feeling tired and rundown? Me too! Looking nice will elevate your mood, though, so hop to it.
  • Breathe from your belly, not your chest. This is something I’ve been trying to master for a while, actually, because it helps when you’re trying to sing, as it engages your diaphragm. Make sure your belly inflates when you inhale and deflates as you exhale. It gets more oxygen into your lungs, which wakes you up and calms you down.
  • Do a little de-cluttering. Again, such a great tip! I know that when my surroundings are messy, I feel totally out of control and I have trouble falling asleep. But instead of trying to do it all at once, which can feel insurmountable, just tidy up a small corner or throw out a pile of papers. Accomplishing something worthwhile will make you feel better about yourself!
  • Turn off the TV and the computer after 8 PM. This one is especially hard for me, but I think it’s one of my biggest late-night problems. Staring at a bright screen suppresses your melatonin production, which basically makes it impossible to fall asleep. Switch it off and open a book before bed instead.
  • Don’t obsess about the clock. Redbook recommends turning your alarm clock away from you or covering it up. Not only will you not be able to obsess about how late it’s getting, but you’ll also be shielded from the intrusive light of a bright digital display.
  • Make sure your sleeping quarters are on the cool side. Ideally, your bedroom should be between 54 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Like I said, it’s August. It’s been hot. Stuffy rooms lead to poor sleep! Boo.
  • Exercise. Duh. It energizes you immediately and then tuckers you out by the time you’re ready to go to bed. Perfect! (Just don’t exercise too late in the evening, or you’ll be too hopped up on endorphins to fall asleep.)

If you read all 22 tips, it’ll probably become pretty apparent which of these culprits are your personal energy zappers. I have my work cut out for me! And remember, nothing boosts your energy quite like a good night’s sleep.