7 Ways to Deal With Low Energy Levels

When we’re running on empty, it can feel incredibly challenging to work through that to-do list, handle family pressures, or give your very best at work. 

Having low energy is different from just feeling a bit tired, and can be brought on by a whole range of factors including poor diet, not getting enough exercise, a vitamin deficiency, lack of quality sleep, an overwhelming workload, a toxic relationship – and even the weather.

Struggling with low energy levels can have a pretty sizeable impact on your mental health and overall wellbeing, and leave you more susceptible to feeling unwell. But the good news is there are plenty of steps you can take to give those energy levels a welcome boost.

How to Increase Your Energy Levels 

After more than 18 months of isolation, health concerns, and worries over finances brought about by the pandemic, it’s no wonder that so many of us are feeling a little depleted right now. But it’s time to take back control with our 7 simple steps to reigniting your vim and vigour. 

#1: Up the exercise.

When we’re low on energy, exercise often takes a back seat. While you might not be able to think of anything less appealing than hitting the gym, going for a run, or stretching out in a yoga session when you’re feeling drained, exercise is actually one of the best ways to boost your endorphins and rediscover your get-up-and-go. Even taking the dog for a walk every day (or going on a nature walk if you don’t have a dog) can make all the difference. 

#2: Tackle tasks in ‘bitesize’

Overwhelm is one big energy-drain. If you have a lot on your plate right now, you might feel like you’re treading water and getting nowhere fast – which creates even more overwhelm, and leaves you in a vicious cycle of never having enough energy to clear the decks. So be realistic. Write down a comprehensive to-do list; get everything out of your brain and onto paper, prioritise the most important tasks, then break these down into manageable chunks.

#3: Have your vitamin levels checked

Low energy levels can be your body’s way of telling you that something’s wrong. If you’re deficient in iron, magnesium, potassium, Vitamin B or Vitamin D, it can make you incredibly sluggish. Get your blood levels checked if you feel exhausted all of the time, because a simple supplement or change in diet can, quite literally, change your life. 

#4: Adopt a sleep routine

Not getting enough sleep, getting too much sleep (yes, really), or having a series of disturbed nights can all leave you seriously low on energy. If you struggle to fall asleep, try having a relaxing bath before bed, read, rather than watching TV, sip on a camomile tea instead of alcohol or coffee, and explore some natural sleep aids – such as lavender pillow mist. If you find yourself waking up often, you might actually be going to bed too early. Experiment with your bedtimes, and consider investing in some blackout curtains or a new pillow for a more tranquil night’s sleep.

#5: Eat well, and often

Skipping meals can leave you low on calories, while leaving long gaps between eating can cause your blood sugars to drop. Try to eat little and often throughout the day; incorporating healthy snacks like fruit, peanut butter, protein bars, raw veggies, and nuts. Limiting your alcohol intake and drinking plenty of water will also help you to feel far more energetic.

#6: Talk it out

Stress is all-consuming, and one of the first things to suffer when we’re stressed out is our energy levels. Talking to a therapist can help to alleviate stress, anxiety and depression, whilst equipping us with the tools to manage pressures that contribute to energy-drain. Relaxation therapies – including hypnosis, meditation, mindfulness and Tai Chi – can also be really effective here. 

#7: Consider a mind/body health check

Because our energy levels are dependent on so many factors, it’s really important to try and hone in on what’s causing your fatigue. If your diet is good, you’re getting regular exercise, you’re not stressed or overworked, your vitamin levels are fine, you’re sleeping well, and yet you’re still feeling exhausted, it might be time for a check-up. Mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety, OCD and bi-polar disorder – can all contribute to energy-drain; while food allergies, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and a whole host of other chronic health conditions can leave you extremely low on reserves.

The important thing to remember is that in the vast majority of cases, there will always be something you can do to improve your energy levels and put that pep back in your step. And if you need a little help along the way, Fettle is here for you.