2020 was by far one of the most tiresome and draining years in recent memory, with Covid impacting almost every facet of our everyday lives from our health, to the time spent with loved ones and all the way through to our finances. This has had major effects on our energy levels and as we enter the new year under yet another nationwide lockdown that is set to carry on to mid February, this is a problem that is sure to be perpetuated, leaving many with feelings of stagnation, exhaustion and a lack of motivation.
Nationally representative research conducted by Revvies, has even found that 37% of Brits claim their energy levels are the lowest they have ever been. Now, Brits across the UK are looking for ways to re-energise and enter the year under fresh momentum, and now face the challenge of rebuilding their energy levels, fighting fatigue and combat this epidemic of exhaustion.
John Nolan-Neylan, co-founder of energy specialists Revvies, offers his tips to re-energise Britain as we enter our third nationwide lockdown.
1. Get up early and exercise outdoors
The right amount of exercise and sleep will bring the most benefits to your energy levels. According to a study conducted by Appalachian State University, the best time to exercise for weight management and better sleep is at 7 am. Exercising and sleeping well can make yourself more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning which is sure to make you more energised to get through the day. During lockdown it might be worth just moving this back to daylight hours because of the next point.
2. Vitamin D and light exposure
Being confined to our homes during the winter months is sure to have an impact on our Vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is known to help our bodies keep healthy and fight infections; as such, exposure to light is really essential- especially during this lockdown. To perk yourself up, and to get a break from the indoors, try to spend your lunch breaks outside- go for a walk and give yourself a change of scenery. If the weather doesn’t allow you to do so, make sure your food is rich in Vitamin D-oily fish, mushrooms, fortified dairy and non-dairy substitutes.
3. Use caffeine to your advantage
Revvies Energy Strips contain either 40mg or 100mg of caffeine in each serving – which is roughly equivalent to either a cup of tea or coffee respectively. Dissolving on the tongue in seconds they provide a faster pick me up to help you perform at your peak. Used by professional sports teams and Olympic athletes, you can take them without any water for a convenient and rapid boost of energy. Taking a Revvies sugar-free strip in a moment of fatigue, or just at the end of the working day, will give you the alertness and energy you need to help you make the most of your day.
4. Have some ‘mindful’ me time, and meditate
Practicing mindfulness, and particularly engaging in a simple meditation practice, has been linked to a host of cognitive benefits. Allowing yourself some time to relax, quiet the mind, and focus on regular, smooth breathing can boost the brain’s executive functions, reduce impulsive and emotional behaviour, improve mood, and leave you feeling energised. This is an especially effective technique after a draining workday to achieve a productive, feel-good evening.
5. Drink plenty of water
A study conducted at the University of Connecticut’s Human Performance Laboratory found that being even mildly dehydrated can have effects on your mood, energy level and ability to think clearly. Fatigue can be caused by the lack of hydration in your cells; in order to optimise the production of energy from food, it is essential you drink enough water and avoid being dehydrated at all times.
6. Eat well
A good diet is a very easy way of making sure that your energy levels are up- while we are at home, learning to cook and trying new recipes is sure to be fun, and can also help to stimulate your brain! To make sure you are fuelling your body with energy, you must make sure that the foods you are eating benefit your gut microbiome- try incorporating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit into your everyday meals. A good mixture of protein, iron, fibre and carbohydrates will help your body release the energy it has gained slowly throughout the day- helping you stay energised for longer.
7. Take a power nap
A power nap is just that – powerful! Research shows that you can make yourself more alert, reduce stress, and improve cognitive functioning with a nap, particularly around the middle of the day. A power nap is especially effective if you’ve not managed to get a good night of sleep – even a short, 20-minute nap will re-energise you and help you to power through the end of the working day and beyond.
John Nolan-Neylan further comments on the impact last year has had on our energy levels and how to utilise Revvies as a way to re-energise:
“The entirety of last year has had a huge strain on all of our energy levels, and further restrictions have many of us feeling down in the dumps. In order to overcome this hurdle, it is really important for us to perk up and stay positive during these tough times.
“This might seem really difficult for us, especially with Seasonal Affective Disorder coming into effect, but we are hoping that these tips will help to keep Britain’s energy levels high. Revvies Energy Strips are another fantastic way to remain energised and alert – used by elite athletes and sports people across the globe. We are really proud to be able to offer the same, high-quality performance supplements to the average person looking to boost their energy levels and fight fatigue. Revvies is the fastest and most convenient way to experience a great boost of energy, without the hassle and side effects of sugary energy drinks and gels.”
