Do you feel tired throughout the day? Is that tired feeling effecting the quality of your work? We all get sleepy every now and then, but if that sleepiness is a constant in your life, you might be suffering from something more serious: fatigue. Fatigue is a national epidemic that affects millions of Americans, and can result in poor productivity and poor health. The good news is that fatigue is often treatable. There are steps that you can take today that will help you feel more rested and more refreshed. Read below to find out what those steps are, from caffeine intake & sleep habits to exercise and floor matting.
Get Plenty of Sleep
This sounds like an obvious answer, and it is. The sad news, though, is that many Americans fail miserably in this regard, getting less than seven hours of sleep at night. In order to get the sleep you need, you must make it a priority. Many Americans sleep less than they should because they are constantly on the go. If your busy schedule is preventing you from sleeping, it is time to reprioritize. Consistency helps too. Remember when you were a kid, and your parents insisted that you go to bed at the same time every night? You may have complained – and even thrown a fit or two – but the fact is your parents were doing you a favor. Apply that consistency to your adult life as well.
Some people have trouble sleeping because of medical conditions. Sleep apnea is a disorder where you stop breathing for short amounts of time, while you are sleeping. Not only is this dangerous, it interrupts your sleep cycle, so that you wake up feeling like you have hardly slept at all. If you suspect this to be the case, contact a medical professional to get the condition diagnosed and treated.
Go Easy On The Caffeine
A shot of espresso in the morning can be a great pick-me-up. That said, drinking too much caffeine can actually contribute to fatigue. For one, drinking it late at night can make it more difficult for you to go to sleep. Additionally, you can become dependent on caffeine, which can cause you to become extremely sluggish when you are unable to get some. Instead, try to get more energy from healthy, natural sources, like fruits and vegetables.
Lose Weight And Exercise
Speaking of health, staying in shape is a great way to reduce fatigue. Obesity is one of the primary causes of chronic fatigue (along with a host of other health issues), and as your waistline goes down, you will see your energy levels go up. Also, if you are having trouble sleeping, regular exercise can help ensure that you will sleep as soon as you hit the pillow.
Outfit Yourself Against Fatigue
There are also many products you can buy to aid you in the fight against fatigue. Many workers complain of constant fatigue on the job, due to working long hours and having to stand all day. Having the right pair of comfortable shoes can be a great help here. Additionally, putting down interlocking anti fatigue mats can help you feel more comfortable and less tired when standing all day. These mats provide a comfortable cushion that reduces soreness, stiffness, and – in turn – fatigue.
