Why Am I So Tired?
by Samantha Roehrig
In this issue, our focus is energy. Where does
it go? How can I get more? Let's face
it...energy is everything. A lack of energy
effects you physically and emotionally. It holds
you back from accomplishing your daily
objectives - such as getting the kids ready for
school, cleaning the house, getting in a good
workout, taking the kids the park, running
errands, preparing dinner, helping the kids with
their homework, and preparing for the next day.
Do you have the energy to tackle each day with
alertness and vigor, and without fatigue? If
you're like most moms, the answer is often "No."
Most moms are tired. In fact, I bet that's one
of the most common complaints about motherhood -
"I'm always tired, and there's just so much to
do!" Given the long days and often short nights,
most moms think their bodies just need more
sleep - maybe sneak in a little catnap. While a
good six to eight hours of sleep is important,
it's just one factor and often an excuse for a
bigger energy problem. In fact, you are likely
doing small things each day that wreck havoc on
your energy levels. Are you guilty of the
following?
Skipping Breakfast. You are running around in
the morning taking care of your family, and you
just forget or don't have time. No big deal you
think, I'm not really that hungry anyway. Wrong!
You are depriving your body of the fuel it needs
to run efficiently and be productive. Plus, your
body is slowing down its rate of metabolism to
preserve energy.
Lack of water. Even mild dehydration can trigger
fatigue. Proper hydration is essential for your
body to function optimally. A good rule of thumb
is to consume half your body weight in ounces
each day. Do the math real quick and think about
how much water you drank yesterday - are you
drinking enough? It's best to consume small
amounts throughout the day. Four ounces of water
– every 30 minutes to one hour – is more
balanced than guzzling all at one time.
Lack of exercise. I know, you're too busy and
too tired. Even though you think you don't feel
like exercising, it will always make you feel
better. Movement will get you energized - not
make you more tired! Even if it's just 20-30
minutes each day, find an activity that brings
you joy and get moving. Exercise also reduces
stress and helps you sleep better.
Too much caffeine and refined sugar.
What's your poison? Coffee, diet cola, sweets? This stuff is fake energy and
poison. They will give you an artificial high
followed by an inevitable energy crash. Plus,
these stimulants can cause insomnia, poor sleep,
anxiety and disease. The solution - break the
cycle. I know this may seem daunting if you rely
upon that morning coffee and afternoon cola to
get you through the day. You'll feel much better
if you generate natural, sustained energy
through wholesome eating and exercise.
Poor nutrition. How are you eating? Are you
getting less than five to nine servings of
fruits and vegetables each day? Do you
frequently consume refined, frozen, canned or
processed foods? Do you eat a lot of dairy
products? Do
you eat a high-fat diet? Do you eat empty
calorie foods such as soda, candy, cookies and
cake? How about white bread, white flour, white
pasta, etc.? If you're nodding your head, your
food choices are negatively impacting your
energy. Healthy, wholesome eating is the key to
maximizing your energy levels.
Too Much Stress. Physical and mental stress can
drain your energy levels. Even during a hectic
day, make time for yourself. It's there, you
just need to allow yourself to take it. Usually,
personal time is the last item on your to-do
list - an indulgence only allowed if all the
tasks are done. This is no good - move yourself
up that list. Do something you enjoy - maybe get
some fresh air, exercise, play with your dog or
get a massage.
Do you want more energy? Aren't you tired of
being tired? Look at this list of energy busters
and commit to making some changes. Maybe just
start with one - integrate it into your
lifestyle and then add another. Allow yourself
to build momentum and feel great. Give yourself
the energy to achieve your personal best.
If you have any questions, you are welcome to
contact me at
samantha@optimomfitness.com.
Thanks for your support, Samantha.
Samantha Roehrig
Vitality Coach
Optimom Fitness
Because Motherhood Is An Endurance Sport
samantha@optimomfitness.com
