Lifestyle

September 19, 2018 Lifestyle

Natural Ways to Boost Energy

Busy days have you dragging? Fight back against the afternoon slump with these Natural Ways to Boost Energy.

As a WAHM of two busy girls, I’m always on the go (aka in the car), and I find myself struggling to be productive and stay motivated midday. So, I actively figure out how boost my energy naturally. As much as I’d love to squeeze in a yoga session or afternoon coffee with girlfriends, most days those options aren’t in the schedule. So, I came up with ideas to naturally increase my energy when I need a quick boost of motivation.

5 Ways to Increase Your Energy Naturally

High quality snacks.Natural energy comes from good food, but how do you plan for it on the go? I always pack wholesome snacks. Since my days are so jam packed with activities, eating breakfast is key to kicking off my day and making my morning happier.
Move. Our psychology is directly tied to our physiology, meaning– moving your body can change your entire outlook. This is super simple to do in a few minutes. Play theme music from a musical and dance with the kiddos, or go for a walk with the stroller or a co-worker at lunch, or even just get up from your desk and do a few stretches. It all counts.
Appeal to your senses. Little changes make a big impact. Light a candle or turn on a diffuser. A light, bright scent will help wake you up. Eating fruit is another great way to wake up your senses.

Get outside. If at all possible, spending a few minutes outside will certainly wake you up. If you’re at home with the kids, getting outside is a must. And if you’re typing away at a computer all day, you’ll be surprised how a little time in the sun will boost your energy.
Grab some “me time”. Doing something you love will always increase your energy. Chat with a girlfriend, scroll through some Insta Stories, or even read a chapter of a book. Each of these activities can be 10 minutes or less and will do wonders for your mood. When my energy dips, I grab a snack or iced coffee and watch a few YouTube clips. I pick something funny or light-hearted, and it totally refreshes me.

faqs

How can you boost your energy fast?

There are many ways to boost your energy fast. Exercise, listen to lively music, talk to friends, act energetic, and get something done!

How can you boost your energy after 50?

Take vitamins, take a walk, drink water, get enough sleep, but most importantly, start where you are (don’t compare where others are in their health).

Why is my energy so low?

Lifestyle factors can cause low energy levels, such as sleep patterns, exercise, and diet. These are the most common factors, but if you adjust these and are still experiencing low energy then speak with your doctor.

Hope this gave you a few new ideas for when your energy is lagging! Remember, we’re all in it together. Grab a coffee and let’s do this!

August 11, 2018 Lifestyle

Self Care Ideas for Moms

Desperate to slow down and get some time to relax? Let’s get clever about it! Today we’re talking Self Care Ideas for Moms and ways to find more “me time” every day.

ways for moms to find more "me time"

Self Care for Moms

If you’re anything like me, being a new parent meant everything was about the baby. As your child grows up, you gain more confidence as a parent. Maybe you have more kids, life gets busier… and you start to realize, you need time to focus on yourself too. As I type this, I’m taking some time to myself while the hubby takes care of the kiddos. I’ll come back refreshed and ready to be MOM again. Keep on reading for some excellent self care ideas for moms!

ways for moms to find more "me time" journals

So how do we find time to relax and recharge? Well, we have to get clever about it.

Clever Ways For Moms to Find More “Me Time”

Early in the AM or late PM. Preferably early in the morning (to avoid being a zombie), take some time before the kids wake up to sit with a cup of coffee and a good snack.

ways for moms to find more "me time" with coffee 2. Head to the park with earbuds. When you & the kids need some fresh air, pack it up and head to the local park. Pop one earbud in and listen to music or a podcast while the kids run out their energy. So simple and so effective. Refreshes you right up.

3. Babysitting Swap. Childcare is expensive, but I’m sure you have a friend or neighbor with kids who would do a babysitting swap so each of you could an hour or two to yourselves. And bonus, the kids get playmates to keep them busy!

4. Limited Time Toy Bin. Fill a box, bin, or bucket with inexpensive toys/crafts that the kids can only access when you give permission. That way, you can pull out the special toy bin when you’re desperate for a break and you know it’ll keep their attention. It gives you a few minutes to yourself, guilt-free. Put your feet up and take a tip from me—grab a coffee or iced tea. You’ll feel energized and ready for the rest of your day!

faqs

How can moms take care of themselves?

Some self care examples are asking for help, sharing the load, being grateful, doing something just for yourself daily, and avoiding wishing away the moments and embrace the time.

Why is self care important for mothers?

Self care for moms is important so moms can recharge and be present for all the things they need to do for others. Moms need time to take care of themselves to be good mothers.

How do I start a self care routine?

You need to make a self care routine and stick to it. To do that you need to choose something you don’t hate, plan ahead and schedule it, keep your routine simple, and remain flexible.

Love these Self Care Ideas for Moms? Check out Easy Ways to Get Morning “Quiet Time”.

November 28, 2017 Healthy

How to Boost Your Energy

Busy parents rejoice! Find out how to boost your energy, and own your day.

As a busy mom, it is priority for me to take care of myself and make lifestyle choices that will give me the energy to do all the things. How do I find the energy to power through my days? I’ll let you in on my hacks for getting more energy…

Boost Your Energy

Drink More Water The research on this is solid, drinking more water gives you more energy, almost immediately. We all feel the effects when we don’t drink enough water. I like to drink a full glass after taking my vitamins, or use a water bottle with timers on it to know where I am at all day!

Change Your Body Physiology What does that mean? In general terms, if you physically change your state, then your body and mind will change with it. That’s why a kitchen dance party with your kids puts everyone in a better mood. Simple movements like getting up to stretch or walking around the block gets your body warmed up, and instantly gives you a fresh outlook.

Vitamin Routine I mentioned above how daily vitamins have supported my system since I started using them regularly. I highly recommend checking out vitamins that fit with your health goals.

Protein + Fiber Snacks My next tip might be an obvious one, but it’s always a good reminder. Just like our kids need good snacks, so do we. Reach for snacks with both protein & fiber (trail mix, for example) when needing foods that boost your energy.

Change Your Surroundings You’d be surprised at how much your environment affects your mood, work efficiency, and energy levels. By simply lighting a scented candle, using an oil diffuser, turning up the lights, or listening to upbeat music… you can turn the whole mood around.

faqs

How can I get instant energy?

Some easy ideas are to workout, drink coffee, eat chocolate, take a quick nap, and take deep breaths.

How can I increase my energy and focus?

Limit alcohol, exercise, control stress, eat protein packed snacks, or take supplements.

Why is my energy so low?

Your energy can be low because of lifestyle factors like lack of sleep, bad diet, and lack of exercise. It can also be because of medical conditions.

Hope these tips give you some fresh ideas for increasing your energy and busting through that “To Do” list!

June 14, 2016 Lifestyle

Your Ideal Morning Routine: Stress Less & Get More Done

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #IDSimplyPure #CollectiveBias

A year ago, my whole life was in flux. My oldest was starting first grade, my baby had become a toddler, and my part-time job was becoming busier each month. Desperate to find quiet, uninterrupted writing time, I worked late into the night, stayed up even later to wind down, and dragged myself out of bed every morning at the last possible minute.

I felt overwhelmed, frazzled, and overworked. I was getting tons done everyday, but always felt behind. My days started off frantic and never really got back on track.

Did I mention that I’m a terrible morning person? I don’t hate mornings… especially these days. But, I am far more pleasant to be around after about a half an hour. Anyone else feel the same? I need a chance to grab a glass of water and my COFFEE. Yes, COFFEE in all caps. It is vital to my days running smoothly, particularly my mornings. Coffee time is so important to start my day off right.

I knew I needed a better routine. I didn’t want to start the day off in a rush. And I especially didn’t want to be crabby with my family. They deserve to wake up and see me at my best, or at least, happy to see them. Which happens after some quiet time in the morning, including some hot coffee and delicious International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer (Caramel is my fave).

Coffee fuels my day. It gets the morning started right. Everyday, I stir in International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer. Each of their three favors: Vanilla, Hazelnut, and Caramel tastes indulgent. I like to use all three in my coffee stand and switch it up.

So tasty. I love how Simply Pure doesn’t lose its flavor. You just add your preferred amount of cream.

So now that I have time to sip and savor my favorite morning beverage, how did I get here? How do you figure out your ideal morning routine that helps you stress less and get more done?

Identify Your Goals: What are your overall life goals right now? Where do you need to be spending your time and energy? Your kids? Your job? Taking care of an elderly relative? Or did you just come out of a stressful period in your life and simply need to rest and recharge your batteries?

Whatever your goals may be, identify them and use them as priorities in your new morning routine.

For me, my focus is on my kids, finding time for work (without feeling overwhelmed), and getting in some extra time for myself. These goals help me live a fuller life in a healthy way.

Create Your Schedule: Now that you know where your priorities lie, pick 3-5 activities that you will do each morning to work toward your goals. The amount that you can get done each morning depends on how much time you allot for a morning routine and which activities you pick. Tossing in a load of laundry takes less time than going for a jog, for example. Allow a little extra time in your schedule, more than you think you’ll need. The whole idea is move away from feeling rushed.

Even an extra 15-20 minutes each morning can be helpful in your routine. Take as much time as you have each morning.

Here’s my schedule that I’ve created over the past year. It’s really done wonders for my productivity (& sanity!):

Drink glass of water & make coffee (with International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer– just the way I like it!)

Empty dishwasher, make school/camp lunches, tidy up kitchen

Balance checkbook/ Online banking

Computer work (I try to give 15 minutes to new projects that don’t get time during the day)

Go over day’s schedule & To Do list

Activity for stress relief: journal, read an inspiring book, adult coloring book, etc.

Exercise (few days a week)

Notice that I have list, rather than a timed schedule, per say. It’s easier for me to start with the important items and work my way down. If I don’t get to the last couple items on the list, no biggie, I try again tomorrow. Which leads me to my last point…

Adjust as Needed: If it’s hard to get up earlier or get on a new routine, give it time. Change can be tough. I promise you, though, that creating a morning routine will change your entire day for the better. You can’t help but feel accomplished when you wake up early enough to tackle your goals and give yourself time to breathe. Preferably while enjoying a coffee with your favorite International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer…

International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer is made with real real milk, cream and sugar. Simply Pure has only five natural ingredients! You can really taste the goodness.

Pick up all three flavors: Hazelnut, Caramel, and Vanilla at Walmart. Find your favorite and make your morning coffee that much more special.

For more info on International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer, visit HERE.

Which flavor of International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer would you enjoy in a hot cup of coffee?