Crossroads Fitness Blog

Everyone knows what it’s like to feel tired. Fatigue is our body’s way of telling us it is time for rest. But with busy schedules that include work, meetings and deadlines as well as children and their activities, it’s common to ignore these signs and power through with another cup of coffee or energy drink. 

These quick fixes merely subdue the symptoms of fatigue for a brief period. The feeling of tiredness should come naturally. Depriving your body of its required rest will leave you with symptoms that aren’t only unhealthy, but also unproductive. 

Sure, you can resist the urge to sleep to accommodate your busy lifestyle for a short amount of time. You can stay up late and get up early. But you could discover you actually accomplish less. 

Studies show adults need 6 hours to 8 hours of sound sleep daily. Without this allotment, the brain and body won’t properly function. Work becomes complacent, family time scarce and workouts nonexistent. 

While they sound like contradicting impulses, exercise improves the fight against fatigue. According to researcher Patrick O’Connor, more than 90 percent of studies showed the same thing. Sedentary people who completed a regular exercise program reported less fatigue compared to groups that didn’t exercise. Moreover, the effect remains consistent.

When you are find yourself in the middle of a fatigue battle, move. If you can’t make it to the gym, do something to release those endorphins. Complete a series of jumping jacks or take a brisk walk. Moving will keep you going. 

The best choice is to set aside a time in your day just for physical training. Whatever your fitness level, start doing something.

You are what you eat. If you hurriedly scarf down a fast food burger and fries every day for lunch, your body will treat you accordingly. If you prepare meals ahead of time that consist of all the food groups, you’ll have more time to enjoy the nutrients you give yourself. Your body works hard for you all day. Give it the essential things it needs, and it will provide the energy you need. That’s a diet full of real food, not processed. 

Combat the urge to eat sugary snacks. Chose foods that are sustainable and will help you feel full mid-day. Try a rice cake with almond butter rather than a candy bar.

Being dehydrated also leads to feelings of fatigue. Keep that full bottle of water near you and sip on it all day. Sometimes you aren’t even hungry, just thirsty. It works.

Fatigue can also come from stress. Try taking a yoga class.  The breathing and stretching can help you feel better and more centered and confident.  

To become the productive, family oriented and present individual to which you aspire, make yourself a priority. Get 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night, eat healthy meals, stay hydrated and exercise 30 minutes at least five days a week. You’ll stay focused on tasks and enjoy the life you live with the people who matter most. Making yourself a priority will make you a better you.