If you frequently feel drained and cannot pinpoint a reason, it’s important to consider both physical and non-physical potential causes. A trip to your physician can help uncover any physical issues contributing to your low energy. Common physical causes to examine include:
- Low thyroid hormone
- Congestive heart failure (reduced blood flow capacity)
- Anemia (low oxygen-carrying capacity)
- Adrenal fatigue (low cortisol)
- Chronic viral infections (such as hepatitis C)
- Insomnia (resulting in daytime fatigue)
- Hypoglycemia (temporary low blood sugar spells)
- Excess weight
- Consuming too much refined or processed food and insufficient whole foods or fresh produce
A poor diet is the most frequent physical reason for low energy levels and often accompanies a sedentary lifestyle. To improve your diet, try incorporating fresh juice and fruit smoothies, which can become complete meals by adding nuts, eggs, and stevia. Cut back on dairy, refined sugar, and bread products, and establish an enjoyable exercise routine accompanied by your favorite tunes.
Although physical reasons can impact your energy levels, behavioral and emotional factors are usually the prime culprits. What you think and feel directly affect your energy levels. Begin every day by noticing how you feel the moment you wake up. If your mood is affecting your energy, you can alter this state by visualizing positive images and experiences that bring you joy. Focus on the positive feelings this practice generates as it helps set the tone for the rest of your day.
Relationships can also impact energy levels. Concentrate on the positive relationships in your life and allow happy thoughts to permeate your day. At the same time, let go of any negative feelings or arguments that only serve to drain your energy.
Other factors that can reduce your energy include:
- Over-committing to duties and responsibilities
- Allowing other people’s expectations to govern your life
- Believing other’s critical opinions of you
- Guilt or shame, which can prevent you from moving forward (remember that your past is a learning experience and not an accurate representation of your present self)
- Comparing yourself enviously to others and criticizing yourself
- Worry or chronic fear
If you want to regain your energy, it’s crucial to honestly evaluate the factors that drain it and find ways to eliminate or adjust these areas. Incorporating pleasure and fun, nurturing positive relationships, discovering new experiences, and engaging in mindful or spiritual practices will help fuel your energy and vastly improve your quality of life.
