Aging is one of those things that brings plenty of advantages with it. After all, you’re one year wiser, and you have so many experiences accumulated that make you who you are today. There’s nothing to be ashamed about when it comes to acquiring a few extra wrinkles. You can think of your wrinkles as a road map of everywhere you’ve been that’s led you to where you are. 

However, as many advantages may come along with aging, there are certain disadvantages—like having less energy than you once did. When you’re a teenager, and even in your 20s, you seem to have boundless energy with no limits. Fast forward to your 30s, 40s, and beyond, and your energy levels are certainly not what they used to be. 

The good news is that energy levels can be regulated by practicing certain lifestyle habits. Whether you’re living in an assisted living facility or you’re entering your first year of college, the same rules apply. Here are some proven ways to increase your energy levels and avoid feeling sluggish throughout the day.

Move More

When you’re tired, your first instinct may be to sit down and move less. However, the reason for your exhaustion may be due to a lack of movement. That’s right—it may seem counterintuitive, yet the less you move, the more tired you might be. Physical activity creates energy. 

Regular movement like walking or doing light exercises like swimming improves blood flow, increases your oxygen levels, and releases endorphins. All of these things combined combat fatigue and ultimately boost your energy.

Fuel Your Body

Your body relies on food to give it energy. Yet, as we age, our bodies become less efficient at processing certain nutrients. Unfortunately, if you fail to eat the right nutrients, it’s not uncommon to feel sluggish and mentally foggy. Make sure you eat a diet rich in whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and, of course, plenty of whole grains and healthy kinds of fats. 

Stay hydrated, and remember that even though you get most of your nutrients from your food, taking additional supplements can be very helpful—especially when it comes to increasing your energy levels. Supplements like magnesium and B12 can make a big difference in how energetic you feel.

Sleep More and Well

Most people know that more sleep equals less fatigue. However, this isn’t always the case. The quality of your sleep also makes a big difference in how tired you feel. It’s critical that you set up a calm and peaceful sleeping area for yourself, free of any distractions or sounds, and that you aren’t awoken multiple times throughout the night. The temperature will also play a role in how well you sleep, so make sure that your bedroom is at an adequate temperature, or you might wake up feeling sluggish.