How to Get Energized (Without Caffeine!)

One of the biggest changes in my lifestyle after entering college was my sleep cycle. I’m now wide awake at 3 am and unable to keep my eyes open at noon. It’s especially hard to stay energized during finals week. I down a couple cups of coffee and feel jittery and energized for a few hours before experiencing a crash. On top of caffeine not allowing me to feel very well, it has many negative side effects- immediately and long term. So, here is some things you can do to wake-up without risking your health!

Eat Breakfast: 

I believe this is the most underrated meal of the day by most college students. We normally wake up 15 minutes before a class and grab a granola bar (if we’re lucky) and run out the door. But breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. It fuels you for the rest of the day and also gets your metabolism going, which can even lead to weight loss.

Clear Clutter: 

Before a study sesh try clearing some clutter from your desk. Cleaning out a drawer or just making your bed can lead to you feeling happier and accomplished. This will make you just want to get even more done. It’s amazing what a clean work space can do.

Eat Healthy Fats:

Food like avocado, almonds, olive or coconut oil, and fish are all super healthy fats that are powerful brain foods. They fuel your brain, which can lead to better clarity and focus to help you hone in on what you need to finish for the day.

Get Outside: 

Even when it’s cold and bitter out in the middle of winter, getting outside can benefit you greatly. The fresh air and bright sunlight is a great pick-me-up. Try taking a w
alk or jog for at least 15 minutes. It will get your heart beating and blood flowing, which will allow you to be more energized.

Get (and stay) Hydrated:

Drinking water helps flush toxins from the body, leads to clearer skin, and better digestion.  Being dehydrated can lead to being tired because of the lack of oxygen circulating your blood stream. You can read more on the benefits of water in my other blog post “3 Health Benefits of Water”

Sleep Cycle: 

Try to keep a decent sleep cycle. Making sure you get at least 7 hours of sleep is important and keeping a constant sleep pattern and try to go to bed and wakeup around the same time everyday will allow your body to stay on a routine.

Hopefully you can use these tips for finals week and beyond to stay
awake and energized when you need it most!