Get out of that energy slump!

What it’s all about:

10 tips to get out of a slump:

Tip 1: Try to find the cause of your lack of drive
Tip 2: Go for a walk in nature
Tip 3: Be mindful and try to be in the moment during a walk
Tip 4: Consciously take small time-outs from everyday life and treat yourself to something nice
Tip 5: Make use of your time and engage in meaningful activities
Tip 6: Set priorities
Tip 7: Have the courage to change
Tip 8: Make sure you eat a balanced diet, drink enough fluids and get enough sleep
Tip 9: Set goals, take care of yourself and stay active
Tip 10: Dancing isn’t just a workout for the body, it’s balm for the soul

Tried everything and still lacking energy?

A lack of drive can affect anyone at any time and in all kinds of situations. It often creeps up on you and catches you off guard; it can also be the result of other physical and /or psychological conditions. All of a sudden you find yourself in an energy slump, and some good advice is very much needed. This post explores different ways, tips and tricks to get out of an energy slump.

Getting out of a slump with new energy

There are many different reasons why you might be in a slump at the moment. It’s important to know that this is a temporary state, it doesn’t  have to stay this way and there are ways to get out of this slump. The following section shows you several positive ways to get new energy and find your way out of that slump.

Tip 1: Try to find the cause of your lack of drive

Lethargy can be the result of both physical and mental conditions. If the cause of your lethargy is physical, you must seek treatment for your illness. If the cause is psychological, you can counteract your lack of drive with lots of small building blocks.

Tip 2: Go for a walk in nature

Exercise in the fresh air will get your circulation going and the daylight will help you fill up on vitamin D. This vitamin D and time out in nature will revitalise your mind, body and soul. Try to consciously experience nature with your senses. What can you see? What can you hear? What smells can you detect? What can you touch? You might hear a bird singing, or see a flower or tree that you are drawn to. You will return home in a better mood.

Tip 3: Be mindful and try to be in the moment during a walk

When you go for a walk in spring, look out for the blossom bursting into life. You might even be able to smell them.

If you’re out and about in the summer, you could, for example, walk barefoot across a meadow. Consciously try to notice and feel the earth with the soles of your feet with every step you take. In autumn you might appreciate the interplay of colours in nature. But winter also has many surprises in store. When walking in the snow, try to notice the snow under your feet as you walk. Hear the crunching, and take in the snowy air that has a magical smell all of its own.

Tip 4: Consciously take small time-outs from everyday life and treat yourself to something nice

Consciously create small pockets of joy that allow you to escape from the stress and grind of everyday life. Small breaks will revitalise you. Do something nice for yourself during these breaks, something that brings you joy and makes you feel good. This might be some relaxing music, a good book, or even a hot cup of tea. Power napping, especially after lunch, can also help to recharge your batteries. It’s also good to plan ahead for things you’re looking forward to. This could be a date with a loved one, a concert or museum visit, a catch-up with friends, a nice evening out or a wellness weekend. A short holiday might also be something to look forward to, an oasis away from the daily humdrum of life.

Tip 5: Make use of your time and engage in meaningful activities

Try to make a daily plan and structure your day so you’re not just stuck on the sofa or spending time in bed. You might also want to try something new; learn a new language, an instrument or try a new sport. You could also sign up with a charity and volunteer to help. Such organisations are always on the look out for people who are willing to work for their causes. This way you get to engage in meaningful activities and enjoy the feeling of being needed. Animal shelters are also always in need of help. You could, for example, walk a dog regularly. The dog will love you for it and you get to enjoy some fresh air.

Tip 6: Set priorities

Don’t get overwhelmed, do one thing at a time. You’re allowed to say no sometimes. Listen to your inner voice and say no to things that aren’t good for you. Focus on tasks that help you improve your quality of life. You can conquer your lack of drive and get out of your slump by doing something you want to do and know why you’re doing it.

Tip 7: Have the courage to change

Sometimes changing small things can help, sometimes the changes required are bigger. Changing jobs, ending a relationship or moving house can often have a positive impact. Addressing unhappiness with your own body can also be helpful in ending listlessness and getting out of your slump. A new hairstyle, a new partner or a pet could all be further options. Don’t let setbacks drag you down; try to see the positive and look to the future with optimism.

Tip 8: Make sure you eat a balanced diet, drink enough fluids and get enough sleep

Try to eat a healthy and varied diet. Sugar can be another reason for your lethargy. It gives you a quick burst of energy and a rush at first, but it doesn’t take long for the low to set in. The reason is that your blood sugar level rises quickly, but then drops again just as quickly. The sugar shock is inevitably followed by a phase of fatigue, poor concentration and a drop in performance. Therefore, you should manage your sugar intake and use products without added sugar. If you’re craving something sweet, you can try a Chiefs® Protein Bar or Chiefs® Protein Pudding instead. Drink enough fluids; water or unsweetened tea is best. Getting enough sleep is important for overall well-being.

Tip 9: Set goals, take care of yourself and stay active

Don’t overtax yourself and take small steps. The important thing is to get your mind and body into good shape. Both body and mind need to have sufficient time to recover. It’s essential to find the balance between relaxation and activity. The more active you are, in whatever field, the more experience you gain. And this in turn helps to combat anxiety.

Tip 10: Dancing isn’t just a workout for the body, it’s balm for the soul

Put on some good music; Latin American rhythms are particularly great for finding ways out of an energy slump. Salsa, bachata and the like enchant with their rousing, soulful and emotive nature, and just listening to them will change your state of mind in a positive way. If you then manage to move to this music, you’ll notice how your energy comes back, both mentally and physically. Just let the music work on you and don’t think too much when you move. Your body knows what to do, because the movement is in you. Give your body and soul the chance to have a new positive experience and find a sure way out of your lethargy.

Tried everything and still lacking energy?

If you’ve made the needed changes to your day-to-day life and tried everything possible but the lethargy is still there, or perhaps even dominating your life, you should definitely seek help from a doctor. There may be another underlying problem that needs to be treated. Don’t be afraid to get help! You don’t have to manage everything on your own!

To summarise: First try to pinpoint the background and causes of your lethargy. What are the reasons behind your slump? What caused it? Then it’s helpful to develop a plan and, taking care of yourself, put your own plan into action. If you need help from a specialist, accept this support.