4 Ways to Energize Your Day

It's been a dark and gloomy winter of, let's face it, total apathy for a lot of people.  Moving into the spring, though, as sunshine and warmth organically waken our spirits from the depths of hibernation, you might feel a little spark igniting.  An extra smile, a pull to the outdoors, a shift in appetite and inspiration to make plans, can all be signs of waking up to the new season on its way.  

How do you assist your body moving into the spring?  Spring and fall are fantastic times to "detox" or get rid of the garbage - your food, your closet, your mind.  (I'll be running my group program again next month, let me know if you'd like to be on the list).  Cutting out the clutter in each of these areas is a great way to simplify, quiet the mind, lessen distractions, and ease the transition.  

Turning a spark into an inner fire, to help you through the day with energy, creativity, and strength is something that happens more easily with intention.  Here are some suggestions:


1.  Add Protein

• aiming for 100 grams of protein per day helps to keep energy levels stable and prevent dips, crashes and cravings 
• you can use a tool like "My Fitness Pal" website or app to help you gauge your current protein intake and achieve your goal
• protein also provides the building blocks to support healthy muscle tissue and neurotransmitters (like serotonin and dopamine) so it's particularly useful for stabilizing blood sugar levels and mood 
  
  

2.  Get Sunlight

• there is the coolest new research coming out on how our bodies generate our own energy by harnessing the power of the sun with melanin (1)
• Vitamin D is an incredible hormone that impacts mood, energy, joint pain, and the immune and hormonal systems
• more new research shows that sunlight helps to structure the water in our bodies (remember that water is a huge component of our physical makeup), and certain properties of water generate energy, as well (2)
• not to mention, the only way to get sunshine is to be outside, and we can borrow energy from the earth while being in nature
• if sunlight is tricky to get (like on grey & foggy days) then infrared sauna, or red light light or full-spectrum light devices may be helpful too
  
  

3.  Choose Greens 

• I know there's a trend away from greens because certain ones can be inflammatory for some people, so if you notice you react to kale, for example, then don't push it - listen to your body, as always!
• My own personal as well as clinical experience has shown me that greens are still valuable for giving an energy boost, and help to cut back on other quick surges from sources like caffeine and sugar
• Greens powders in a drink or smoothie, chlorophyl in water, steamed or sauteed veggies or a big salad are all ways to get a good dose, I feel it is partially from the mineral content (we are often deficient) but also from the way that plants also store energy from the sun

4.  Look for Energy Leaks

• I often ask "where are you leaking energy"?  This recognition and acknowledgment allows you to reprioritize not only your responsibilities and commitments, but also your down time
• Scrolling on social media before bed is a common answer, and so is worrying - truly, when asked, most people know their leaks without having to contemplate too long or hard about it
• In what Gay Hendricks refers to as "The Zone of Genius" in his book, The Big Leap, there are things we could do all day long without ever feeling tired or bored, that we love to do, and that give the greatest joy 
• Notice the thoughts, activities, places, meals and people that feel revitalizing and choose more of that
  
  
  

To Purchase Greens or Protein Powders, here are some great options

• Click to see Dr Christa's Online Dispensary
• We also have some of these items available at the Clinic or by special order

Energetic Recipes
Blueberry Energy Smoothie
One Pan Turkey, Cabbage & Spinach
Breakfast Protein Bowl (can be eaten anytime of day)
Lentil Chickpea Salad
 

Ready for spring,
Dr Christa

1.  From the work of Dr Jack Kruse
2.  From the work of Dr Catherine Clinton and also Carrie Bennett