Best Ways to Invigorate Your Weary Brain and Body

May 8, 2013- The American Institute of CPAs offers nine tips on how hardworking CPAs -- or employees in any career -- can get an energy boost to improve their performance on the job.

Along with eating right and getting plenty of exercise, here are highlights from the top 9 “best practices” list:

  • Kick Start the Day with Breakfast – Your body is running on empty and you need to refuel it. Coffee or a sugary treat doesn’t cut it, so go for long-lasting healthy proteins (eggs or low-fat yogurt), then add complex carbohydrates (like whole wheat toast), and toss in some fruit. Now you are good to go.
  • Work in a Workout – Many people give up fitness routines as work levels increase. Think again. When you build time for a 20-30 minute workout each day, you will get that time back and then some. Your body will perform at a higher level, keeping you more focused.  
  • Check Your Posture – Did you know that your posture could be sabotaging you? When you sit up straight you can increase your oxygen intake by up to a third. That means more energy goes to your noggin and your muscles.
  • Take the Stairs – Raise your endurance throughout the day by taking the stairs in place of the elevator. Unless you work in a skyscraper, choosing the stairs can actually save you time.
  • Catch Some Rays – Spending just a few minutes outside can do wonders. It reduces stress and blood pressure. Sunshine helps you produce vitamin D, which is important to good health and serotonin to improve your mood and help you sleep.  
  • Stay Hydrated – If you want to be sharp, stay well-hydrated. Doing so can bolster your memory and problem-solving ability while keeping up your mood. Scrap the energy drinks and sodas.
  • Give It a Break It’s easy to get bleary-eyed while looking at the computer all day. Recharge by stepping away from your desk regularly. Ten minutes is all it takes.
  • Create Your Own Vending Machine – Need a mid-afternoon snack? Avoid the vending machine and keep your own healthy stash on hand. Consider apples, pistachios, air-popped popcorn, dark chocolate, tangerines and hummus.
  • Refuel While You Sleep – Getting enough sleep is essential to elevate your energy level throughout the day. For most of us, 7-8 hours is enough, although levels vary.

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