Caffeine, such an innocent addiction.
Unless I’m doing a detox, I begin every day with a strong cup of coffee.
Do you faithfully begin your day with a cup of coffee?
Statistics say over 2 billion cups of coffee are consumed worldwide each day, so chances are, you’re a coffee drinker. Sometimes it feels like the only way to add some pep in your step is to fill up your mug with some fresh coffee, doesn’t it?
My youngest son begins his day with a huge cup of coffee and can drinks a pot or two a day. Then he grabs an energy drink or two along the way. I fuss, he drinks – caffeine that is.
Why do we think we must begin our day with a caffeine fix?
A cup of coffee isn’t a bad thing, but having an arsenal of ways to boost your energy without caffeine is beneficial,
so here are some ways to do just that…
See the sunshine
Pop open your curtains and let the sunshine light up your mood. This is especially helpful if you have seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and can help to reset your biological clock. Let the sunshine in while you get ready for work, and you’ll find you have a much sunnier disposition.
I love the sunshine so much, that I have replaced all the curtains in our home with frosted window cling coverings. We enjoy the prism of colors that bounce off the walls and floors as the sun shines through the windows.
Try rosemary
Rosemary essential oil has been shown to help boost brain function. On top of that, it smells delightful. Diffuse rosemary frequently and allow the aroma to infuse your home to feel more positive and alert.
Upon rising every morning, I go to the kitchen and drink my warm apple cider vinegar and turn my diffuser on with rosemary. This is such a great way to begin the day without cups and cups of coffee.
Have a protein-rich beginning
Breakfast that’s rich in protein is going to give you that jumpstart you need. Protein controls your blood glucose levels so get those on an even keel before you even head out the door.
I like to have eggs and protein waffles for breakfast. This keeps me energized until it’s time for lunch.
What’s your breakfast of choice?
Turn up the music
Maybe there is something to singing in the shower while you get ready. It helps liven you up and boost your spirits all in one! Make a playlist on your phone of your favorite songs that amp you up, and listen to it during your morning routine.
I keep a tablet in our bathroom and listen every morning as I get ready for the day.
Try the Breath of Fire
In the practice of kundalini yoga, there’s a technique called Breath of Fire. It involves taking short, fast breaths in through your nose while contracting your diaphragm. It gets your heart rate up and gets the blood flowing.
Do this throughout the day and notice a big difference in the way you feel.
Drink some water
Especially in the morning, water is excellent for cleansing away toxins and waking up our organs. More water means less dehydration, something that can sap your energy fast. For even more of a boost, add lemon to your water for more flavor and a dash of vitamin C, or be brave and drink organic apple cider vinegar with warm water and a dash of cayenne pepper.
Check in with your eating habits
What we eat has a significant impact on our energy. If you tend to eat large meals that take a lot of effort to digest, you can feel weighed down and sluggish afterward. Lighten things up by eating a lighter lunch and breaking your meals up throughout the day to keep you feeling sustained.
The next time you feel like your energy is tapering off, try one of these caffeine-free ways to stimulate your mind and body and get that energy flowing!
Which one are you going to try next time you need a perk up?
What’s your typical way of boosting your energy?
If I’ve been sitting for a while, I’ll get up and walk for at least 10 minutes, eat a few almonds or walnuts and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
By following these natural energy boosters, I’ve been able to keep myself to one cup of coffee in the morning and then one cup in the evenings. Now, if I can just get my son converted – SIGH.
Jump in on our Facebook members group – Healthy Living for Life and share what you’re excited about trying for a boost of energy.