The busiest time of the year has arrived. With holiday shopping, cooking, cleaning and entertaining, you'll need to keep your energy levels up. Try these tips for enjoying the season without running out of steam.
• A good night's sleep is essential for energy, but in today's busy world, we're not getting the recommended amount of sleep, according to David Posen, M.D., a stress consultant and author of "The Little Book of Stress Relief" (Firefly, $14.95). Adults need eight to nine hours a night to restore and regenerate their minds and bodies. Children need 10 to 12 hours, and teens could use nine to 10.
• Exercise is the fountain of youth and also gives you more energy. Research suggests that a walk may be better than a nap for boosting energy, and expending energy by engaging in regular exercise may increase energy in the long run.
• Enjoy a cup of coffee, not just for the energy boost, but also for the brain boost. Dr. Miia Kivipelto, an associate professor of neurology at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, and her colleagues tracked coffee consumption in middle-aged men and women and found that those who drank three to five cups of coffee a day were 65 percent less likely to develop dementia than people who drank two cups or less. If your doctor hasn't restricted your coffee intake, you can feel good about enjoying your morning cup of Joe.
If you have a hectic schedule this holiday season, try these tips for celebrating at your energetic best.
Advertisement
Advertisement