I will fix you

forget the world

via lala

7 Ways to Boost Your Energy

I feel like I'm constantly searching for more energy, especially around this busy time of year because so much is going on. Here are a few ways to help out!

1. Exercise

- It's the perfect jump start to your day. It boots your brain activity and metabolism. Studies show that working out before breakfast may burn more fat than exercising after you eat.

2. Eat Breakfast

- It will fuel your entire day. It starts your metabolism and keeps it going all day. Oatmeal with nuts and fruit or a scrambled egg with veggies are great combos - packed with protein and fiber to keep you full.

3. Try 5 Mini- Meals a Day

- To keep your metabolism going, opt for three balanced meals and two small snacks in between. Eat every 3 to 4 hours.

4. Drink Lots of Water

- Mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, so drink whenever you're thirsty. It's a sign your body needs more water.

5. Get the Right Vitamins

- Good nutrition can help beat fatigue. Get B12 from salmon or lean beef and B6 from bananas, turkey, chicken breast, whole grains, and tuna.

6. Sleep Enough

- You need 7 to 8 hours a night. To get the best rest, "create a routine", avoid eating too close to bedtime, and wake up at the same time every morning.

7. Go Outside

-To fight an afternoon slump, take a fifteen minute walk after lunch. Exposure to bright light can increase alertness.

Other Tips:

- Take a breathing break! Sit up straight in your chair, inhale for 4 counts, hold for 2, then exhale for 4 and hold for 2. Repeat 10 times. It will get your blood flowing.

- Up your mood by talking to friends or listening to your favorite music.

- Sniff an energizing scent. Jasmine, peppermint, and citrus are known to be great boosts!

* found in People StyleWatch Magazine

nap

via bippity

Sleeping and Dieting

In Allure Magazine, there was an article about a study done comparing sleeping and dieting. I thought it was kind of interesting.

55% less body fat was lost by dieters who slept 5.5 hours per night versus 8.5 hours.

Apparently, sleep deprivation is associated with increased body fat even when you're dieting. Volunteers slept 8.5 hours a per night over two week sessions and then slept 5.5 hours per night in another. During the day their diet and activity were controlled. When they got less sleep they lost less fat mass (1.3 pounds compared to 3), were hungrier, and had high levels of ghrelin, which is an appetite-stimulating hormone. A professor at University of Chicago said these people will also have a harder time keeping weight off because their metabolism was slowing down due to lean muscle loss.

SO...moral of the story, sleep more...you'll lose more fat if you're dieting and you're less likely to cheat!

Plus you'll probably just be happier :)