Low energy levels are something that a lot of people can associate with. Busy work/life times combined with high sodium and sugar based food and drink has caused an increase in short term energy supplies. A lack of consistent exercise is also keeping us from having high energy levels. The result is a heighten sense of fatigue and/or lethargy in our busy society.
As the body is powered by oxygen and energy, it is important to make the body want as much energy as possible to ensure it is in top shape. A lack of exercise will lead to a fall in a red blood cell count and a therefore a lack of oxygen supply to the body. A lack of exercise can also cause mild hypoglycemia which will have an effect on overall energy levels. While these are ‘normal’ reactions, if left untreated, this can become a chronic condition that will affect a person for many years.
Exercising has continually been proved to help increase energy levels through a number of reasons, varying from person to person. Firstly exercising will cause an increased need for oxygen and energy and so the body will react by increasing red blood cells to transport oxygen and finding energy sources to send to the muscles to ensure the body is fueled throughout the exercise. Aerobic exercise is the best way to increase your red blood cell counts to reap these benefits.
Breathing exercises or anaerobic exercises that are low intensity will also cause the body to breathe more fully. A normal breath does not utilize the lungs whole capacity. By taking more breaths that ‘fill’ the lungs, an increased level of oxygen can be imported into the bloodstream. Various martial arts, yoga and Pilates stress the importance of breathing exercises as a way of improving overall fitness - ‘exercise for your insides’. Even a few short and long breaths have been known to revitalize the body and increase energy levels.
While the physiological effects of exercise can increase overall energy levels, it is important to consider the psychological effects. By exercising your brain, you will recognize the requirement to adapt to the new surroundings and so will naturally take action to ensure it is equipped to deal with what may come.
There is a psychological affect that is commonly known as “runners high” where after an exercise the body releases endorphins into the body. This causes a natural euphoria and good feeling which can also give a sudden rush of energy to complete other tasks. Aerobic and cardiovascular exercise are best known for releasing endorphins as they do not stress the body too far but increase the heart rate enough to let the body know it is being exercised. Endorphins can be released even after a short period so anybody feeling the effects of fatigue can get a natural boost by only a short 15 minute burst of exercise.
Low energy levels are common in our modern times. However, as health and fitness starts gaining more and more public awareness, the ability to fight off fatigue is more readily available. Exercise has both physiological and psychological effects that can help reduce fatigue and give more energy in the long run.