4 easy ways to recharge your energy and stay motivated during the pandemic

“I can’t concentrate anymore. I don’t have any energy. I am just not myself at the moment”.

If you can relate, especially while the corona pandemic is still upon us and lockdowns are in place – you might be suffering from “lockdown fatigue”. This is a phenomenon a lot of people around the world have been experiencing over the past two years. It is primarily caused by the effects of social distancing, including a lack of social contact with friends, family and co-workers, as well as constant restrictions and an ever-changing flood of information.

Lockdown fatigue can negatively affect your ability to concentrate, and you might have noticed a decline in your memory, focus and work performance. 

We have collected a few simple but very effective tips that will recharge your energy, heighten your daily motivation and get you out of negative and depressing thoughts. Here goes!

1. Structure your days

As obvious as it may sound, most of us have lost some structure due to Covid restrictions… working from home amongst a myriad of distractions, is one common cause. To regain structure and purpose, start by establishing some very simple morning routines:

1. Get up at the same time every day, and kick off with some basic body stretches
2. Use a planner to write down appointments and goals to achieve each day (keep them realistic)
3. Note down all of your successes, big and small, as a source of extra motivation when you’re feeling low
4. Maintain a regular sleep routine - don’t stay up too late, switch off all devices and aim for that golden 7-9 hours of shut eye nightly

For more insights on how to achieve better quality sleep for better overall health, you can check out our previous blog post 5 simple sleep tips.

2. Stay hydrated and eat well

A key element for you to feel energised and ready to tackle your day involves the simple act of drinking water. Sufficient fluids - approx. 2 litres a day (depending on your activity levels) keeps you hydrated and helps to prepare your body for a sound, undisrupted sleep.

Important: Don’t drink all your fluids at once but rather spread them over the whole day and avoid drinking too much right before you go to bed. Too much water can alter your electrolyte levels as well as waking you up during the night… so consume your fluids gradually.

Eating healthy, balanced meals will give you more energy as your body metabolises the beneficial nutrients they contain. We’re not suggesting that you start a diet, but actively inject more wholesome foods including fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and protein, into your day. Keep a fruit bowl in sight so that when you have that sweet craving, it’s an easy choice. 

Small changes to your daily food intake will make a big difference over time - you’ll feel more energised, focused and alert, and more productive in the process. 

3. Get outside and move your body

Don’t forget to go outside! Going outside means leaving your work environment (whether your home or workplace) and getting fresh impressions. Often, we get so caught up in work and forget we’ve worked through lunch, or we get into a state of melancholy where every little movement seems too much. Either way, taking a break to step outside is the solution. The fresh air clears your mind and sunlight provides you with a natural source of vitamin D - essential for improving your mood and heightening your senses. 

How much outdoors do I need? This can range from a 15 minute brisk walk twice per day, some simple yoga and stretching exercises, or a run, swim or bike ride to stimulate your circulation, oxygenate the blood and refresh you. Other ways to inject more activity into your day with minimal effort include parking your car farthest away from the shops, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or getting up from the sofa and walking to turn your TV off instead of using the remote control. It’s these little bits of activity repeated frequently that will make an impressive difference over time! 

Tip: Set an alarm that reminds you to go out for a walk or exercise. In time you won’t need the reminder and will look forward to your daily outdoors escape time to truly nourish your body and mind.

4. Schedule Me-Time

Last but certainly not least, take time out just for you. Whatever it is that you need to slow your mind, body and soul, you should make space for that. This may include caring for your body with a warm bath, face mask, or soothing skin care products. The key is to choose an activity that you really enjoy and that relaxes you. 

Remember: Me-time doesn’t mean that you have to be alone. If you are the most relaxed and happy when you socialise then schedule a phone or video call with friends and family, do a virtual cooking session together or find games you can play together online.

By giving your special me-time a fixed place in your routine you ensure that you are looking after yourself and you create something to look forward to each day. That’s certainly something to smile about!