Healthy Ways to Get Energy

Healthy ways to get energy without caffeine may seem dubious at best, however, this is far from impossible. Being aware of the alternatives is the first step to becoming less dependant on your old caffeine standby, whether it be coffee, cola, or some other caffeinated drink. Here's a few of my old standby suggestions from being in the retail health food business.

Dark Chocolate

Eating a couple squares of dark chocolate can be a great way to get energy without drinking a beverage that has triple the chocolate's boost power. This caffeine choice has less of a powerful punch than does your favorite latte, but maybe that's all you really need to get yourself moving. It also has a stimulant called Theobromine in it. This substance is great for keeping you awake and alert, and can help those with asthma because it helps clear breathing passages in the lungs.

Exercise

How many times do you have to hear that exercise gives you energy? I don't know how many times I've said this to customers in consultation or those just looking for some advice in my store. Exercise is the best way to stimulate the bloodflow and keep your brain and central nervous system in top shape. I can feel the difference in my thought process after running. The fog seems to lift and my thinking then becomes clearer and more efficient.

Peppermint Oil

When I was in the health food business, we always touted the energizing benefits of sniffing peppermint essential oil. It was known for helping to create energy when sniffed. I had many clients telling me that the energy they got from was noticeable and seemed to be significant. Personally when I've used this method to wake up, I've been pleased with the results as well. I always get a bit of a boost from peppermint.

Doodling

If you're falling asleep while at a meeting or waiting for an appointment, you can always doodle to keep yourself stimulated and alert. Doodle something whimsical that keeps you stimulated and amused to maximize your mental alertness.

Healthy ways to get energy are at our fingertips. Becoming aware of them is the key. We can then minimize our caffeine consumption and stay alert naturally.