Boost That Energy

Having high energy these days is a virtue that seems to be getting lost among the deadlines, workouts, kids, and bills. If you want to get things done, you better have 5 shots of espresso along with the 3 coffees you had before lunch. You get to a point where you are so burnt out that you can't even see straight, but then, a gift from above is handed to you in the form of a three-day weekend. Thanksgiving is a prime example of this glorious situation and it's one of the best examples because you get to stuff your face with mashed potatoes and then go crash. Take this next long weekend to reset your energy levels so you can go back to work afterward full force.

On day one, try to avoid staying up super late Go to bed around 11 p.m., and set your alarm for 10-11 hours later. One study showed that for every 1 hour of sleep lost, you need to sleep 4 hours to make up for it, so getting 10-11 hours of sleep is a great place to start on night one. During the day make sure you get enough water and carry a water bottle with you. Also, incorporate veggie-filled meals into your day; that will provide an energy boost alone. Even though you are going to groan at this suggestion, do some housework to keep yourself busy and in a productive state of mind. Wash your bed sheets and clean up your room. Your bedroom is your sacred place, so show it some respect.

On night number 2, go to sleep at 11 p.m again, and set your alarm for 9-10 hours from when you hit the hay. You will still be sleeping in, but it will start to prepare you for only getting 7-8 hours later on when you are going back to work. With almost 10 hours of sleep in 2 days being caught up on you should be starting to feel like your energy is coming back again. Research shows it takes two to three days to start to feel totally normal again.

On this last day focus on whole foods and veggies again but cut back on caffeine. Eat foods that combat fatigue, like trail-mix, hummus or even jerky. Yum. On night number 3 make sure that you schedule time in to fully unwind and get yourself ready for bed. During the day you should have avoided any temptation to nap and got in a good walk or other physical activity to make sure you were good and ready for bed. Having a consistent bedtime routine that starts 15-60 mins before your bedtime will cue your brain in that it's time to shut down for the day.