Rechare in 10 minutes o less with these unexpected brain and body booster.
Some days you’re so tired you whole body hurts. But you can actually trick your brain into feeling awake and alert, says Jon Gordon, author of Energy Addict: 101 Physical, Mental, & Spiritual Ways to Energize Your Life. Check out these weird boosters and see for yourself.
■ See red When your eyes see fiery hues like red or orange, our pituitary gland pumps up energy production, according to a branch of alternative medicine called color therapy. So to stay energized, keep these power color in your line of vision: Buy red place mats, keep an orange coffee mug or your des, or view the world through rose-tinted glasses.
■ Tell stupid jokes Go ahead and giggle: Laughing pushes energizing endorphins into the body, according to a study published in the journal Psychological Reports. And it causes your brain to pump out extra serotonin—your body’s natural antidepressant—making your feel more alert and alive. To get a lift, catch The Daily Show on Comedy Central, or encourage your kids to tell knock-knock jokes around the dinner table.
■ Go get lost…in nature Here’s why: When you walk in the woods, you breathe in invisible particles that are believed to boost your energy. These molecules, called negative ions, are also found near mountains, waterfalls and beaches. Negative ions increase the levels of oxygen entering your brain an boost serotonin levels, making you feel wired—in a good way. Don’t live near the slopes or seashore? Spending an extra ten minutes in your steamy morning shower will give you a mini ion blast, too.
■ Get all mixed up Doing something as simple as driving a different route to work or switching the toppings on you salad can give you extra oomph. When you try something new, your brain responds to the exciting stimulus by releasing adrenaline—a natural upper that makes you more alert. Make one tiny change in your routine tomorrow and enjoy the extra adrenaline kick.
reference: Nicole De Coursy
