5 Ways to Have More Energy this Week

by Josh Tremblay

During the past couple weeks I’ve been reflecting a lot on health and energy. I hope you can take at least one of these strategies and apply it to your week in a way that makes a meaningful difference.

1. Drink more water.
Yes it’s simple, redundant, and I know you’ve heard it before. But are you doing it? I don’t believe there is a one size fits all approach to how much water is enough. Your needs will be different from the next person. Factors such as exercise, environment, climate, stress, and more will determine what’s right for you. Try this: Drink 10-12 ounces at least fifteen minutes before each meal this week.

2. Eat flax.
Flax seed is a superfood. High in Omega 3′s and 6′s, this little wonder seed will do wonders for your energy. I prefer to buy it whole (the entire seed). Then turn it into a powder using a coffee grinder. I grind about a week’s worth of flax powder, then refrigerate it for use in a daily smoothie.

3. Drink your meal.
Digestion takes energy. Especially when we’re talking about digesting “heavy” foods such as meat or dairy. Eat less, drink more. Try having a smoothie for lunch today. Load it up with healthy nourishing “live” foods. Do something different. Try this one on for size: almond milk or soy-milk, frozen bananas, almonds, spinach, and flax powder. Whip this treat up in less than 5 minutes and voila, you have a green smoothie. Delicious! The result? Less energy used for digestion. More energy for other things.

4. Give your body the gift of sleep.
When’s the last time you had a really awesome night of rest? One in which you woke up truly energized? How many hours does your body require? My body functions best with 7 to 8 hours of sleep. How many hours of solid, undisturbed rest does your body require to function optimally? Give your body the gift of sleep.

5. Fast.
Fasting is a wonderful way to create more energy. Your body needs a rest from food sometimes. Fasting one day a week will give it that rest. Try it. You’ll be amazed.

Bonus: Try Maca. This plant which grows high in the Andes of Bolivia and Peru is known to increase energy, enhance sexual function, and improve hormonal function. I learned of Maca through Brendan Brazier, canadian endurance athlete, and advocate for a plant-based diet. I tried it, like the results, and still take it today. Take Maca as a powder or capsule, whichever you prefer. I prefer powder. The type you want to get is gelatinized Maca, rather than normal Maca. The gelatinized form is easier to digest because the starch has been removed. You can find Maca at your local Vitamin Shoppe, Whole Foods, or health food store for less than $20. Give it a try. You will be Wowed!

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Photo: TiffanyWashko