I am a very busy person, but health always comes first. People always ask me how I have so much energy, so I've gathered a list of my top seven ways to feel like an updated version of yourself.
1. Shower At Night.
I always shower at night, because it helps me fall asleep more quickly. Another good reason to shower at night is because then you have more time in the morning to get ready. When I have more time in the morning, I tend to start off my day more relaxed, because I didn't have to rush to get out the door. Showering at night also ensures that you have completely cleansed your face, and all your makeup is off. Because your face is thoroughly cleansed, you will probably have less breakouts, which means less stress.
2. Water, Water, Water.
Drink lots of water. Something I always think about to make myself drink water is that it takes one gallon of water to grow one almond, so it must take a lot more water for me. Whenever you feel like snacking or eating candy, just drink water instead, or have water with your snack. Water replenishes your body and makes you feel more awake and alive. At breakfast time, before you start your day, drink at least 16 ounces of water. Water is good, water is great.
3. Drain Your Feet.
If you are feeling tired, and need a little bit of a rest to spring back to life, then drain your feet. Lay down on your back with your legs up against a wall or door. Then, make a 90 degree angle with your legs to the ground. The blood will drain from your feet, and go elsewhere in your body, giving you some more energy for the day. This is a good trick to use midday if you are feeling sluggish. Also, it helps alleviate foot pain! Besides great health benefits, it's nice to just lay down for a bit during the day.
4. Clear Your Head.
At the end of each day, I like to give myself a little time to reflect on the day and stretch out. I like to do a short five minute stretching routine and clear my head of any negativity. First, I start in a butterfly stretch and let go of any useless thoughts. Then, I push out into a diamond stretch with my head to my feet and imagine making a tabletop with my back. Next, I will do both of my splits, and spend a little extra time on my bad side, (my right side). After that I will sit in a straddle, and reach in front of me in a pancake position. In this stretch I like to take deep breaths and push myself further down, until my nose meets the ground. I like to end by stretching my shoulders and ankles and giving thanks for all the awesome people in my life.
5. Plan something to look forward to.
At the start of each week, after I organize my schedule, and manage my time, I like to plan something fun. Especially during school, I always plan something during the weekend that I can look forward to. If you have something fun coming up, it is easier to push through the hard parts of the week. It can be anything that you enjoy doing. For me, I like to plan trips to museums or my favorite mall. You could make dinner plans with your friends, or plan a pool movie night. Just give yourself something exciting to look forward to!
6. Work Out.
In the morning, or at night, do some exercise. Even when you feel exhausted after a long day, it feels so good to work out. Working out helps me clear my mind, and also makes my mind stop thinking for a little while. After you have worked out, you will feel like you can conquer the world. Make yourself work for a fitness goal, and once you reach it, you'll feel indestructible. Working out always gives me more fuel for the day.
7. Embrace New Ideas.
At least once a week, if not everyday, I like to take in new ideas. This means either listening to someone talk about something I am unfamiliar with, or watching an educational video. Some of my favorite videos to watch are TED talks. When I listen to a new idea, or learn something new, I feel enlightened. Or, you can expand your knowledge on something that you already know a little about. Research something that you have always been interested in, and watch a few videos about it. I love learning, so when I get the chance to learn new things, it's like soul food. I always feel so inspired, and motivated to change the world after I watch a good TED Talk. Some of my favorites are by Ken Robinson, Jessica Shortall, and Haley Van Dyck.