Master Coach, Writer, Podcast host, OB/GYN at Prescribing Possibility ™ at The Physician Wayfinder
Answered 2 years ago
Find time to go outside. Whether it is a quick walk alone, sitting at the lake reading a book, or taking the dogs to the park to admire the beauty, I am hard pressed NOT to find myself recharged and happy after being outside in nature. The sounds of the birds singing to each other. The warmth of the sun on my skin early in the morning. The depth of my breaths lengthening. The smell of rain. Nature recharges the batteries of happiness. With ease.
One technique I find particularly effective for recharging my energy and maintaining happiness is taking long walks with my dog. During these walks, I enjoy listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or spiritual sermons. As a Christian, integrating my faith into these activities, especially through spiritual content, deeply reinvigorates me and reinforces my sense of happiness. This simple practice helps me stay connected with my beliefs in nature, providing me with a peaceful and uplifting experience. attribution: Samantha King or Travelling King (https://www.travellingking.com/)
Unplugging. Taking time to disconnect keeps my energy up and makes sure I stay balanced, which helps me be happier and more productive when I get back to work. It's all about hitting that sweet spot between work and fun.
While you may be looking for a quick fix, research indicates that people really do need an average of 8 hours of sleep each 24 hour day. Consistent rest improves mood, energy levels, immune system response, blood sugar levels, blood pressure levels, skin rejuvenation, cognitive function and with it executive function, helps you lose weight and gain muscle along with exercise and diet, lowers inflammation and can reduce chronic and acute pain responses. If you are allowing for enough time to sleep (8-9 hours) and still not feeling energetic - figure out if the problem lies in getting to sleep, staying asleep, or getting good quality sleep. Audio sleep aids, meditation, and breathing exercises can help with getting to sleep. If staying asleep is an issue once you identify what wakes you up, you can work to modify your behaviors or environment to mitigate the disturbances. If the quality of your sleep is left wanting then consider getting tested for sleep apnea which is very common, and often undiagnosed. If your air flow isn't the issue, then you can modify your environment to help you feel more comfortable, safe, and secure so you can sleep more deeply and way more rested each day. Your wellness is the balance of movement, consumption, creation, and rest that works well for you. So make sure you are getting what your body and mind need in each of these categories to help you achieve your best possible mental and physical health.
One technique I've found particularly effective for recharging my energy and maintaining a sense of happiness is practicing mindfulness meditation. This method allows me to detach from the fast-paced demands of daily life and refocus my mind, which is crucial for long-term emotional and mental well-being. Mindfulness meditation involves setting aside a specific time each day to focus purely on the present moment, usually through guided thoughts and controlled breathing. This practice helps in reducing stress by lowering levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and enhances overall mood by boosting serotonin levels, which can improve feelings of happiness and well-being. For example, I dedicate about 10-15 minutes each morning to this practice. This routine starts my day on a calm note and gives me clarity and peace that help navigate the day's challenges more effectively. Over time, this habit not only boosts my daily productivity but also improves my resilience, making it easier to handle stress and stay energized and happy regardless of external pressures.
Finding Happiness in the Great Outdoors One technique I consistently rely on to recharge my energy and cultivate happiness is spending time in nature. Whether it's taking a leisurely hike through the forest, enjoying a peaceful walk along the beach, or simply sitting beneath a canopy of trees in a local park, immersing myself in the natural world never fails to rejuvenate my spirit. Drawing from personal experience, I recall a particularly challenging period when work demands and personal stressors left me feeling depleted and overwhelmed. However, I found solace and renewal by spending a weekend camping in the mountains. Disconnecting from technology and immersing myself in the beauty of the natural surroundings allowed me to quiet my mind, gain perspective, and reconnect with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the world around me. Engaging with the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature not only recharged my energy but also brought a profound sense of joy and peace to my heart.
Meditate for 20 minutes everyday. This allows me to slowdown for a short period each and everyday, which calms my mind, and ultimately makes me happier.
Spending time outside is one technique to recharge my energy and be happy. Walking in the park, hiking a trail, just sitting in the sunshine, and being in nature help me feel refreshed and energised. It's like a natural energy booster that lifts my spirits and brings peace and happiness. I also interact with my close ones to feel motivated.