10 Ways to Increase Energy and Reduce Stress

We have every reason to be stressed out these days. I'd say it's a pretty rational response to what's going on in the world. But stress comes not just from the stressor (i.e. the economy, the job market) but also from how we react to it. If our energy and vitality remain high, we'll be more likely to see the opportunity in any crisis.

Remember, some people are going to do just fine in this downturn and some are even going to thrive and prosper. Why shouldn't you be one of them?

And it all starts with attitude and energy.

Here are ten simple "to-do's" from my latest book The 150 Most Effective Ways to Boost Your Energy. Beginning immediately, you can use them to banish the low-energy/high stress doldrums:

#1: No more multi-tasking! Focus on the task at hand-even if it's as simple as organizing your paperwork-- and finish it.

#2: Have a protein shake for breakfast. I personally recommend PaleoMeal or Whey Cool Protein and this is my favorite quick recipe: 1 scoop high-quality whey protein powder; 1 cup water; 1 cup frozen blueberries or strawberries; 1 tablespoon uncooked oats (optional) and two tablespoons Barlean's Forti-Flax. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

#3: Double or triple the amount of water you drink. How much should you drink? Use this formula: Take your weight and divide by 2- aim for that number of ounces per day. (Being even partially dehydrated will sap your energy like nobody's business.)

#4: Do something for someone else. Examples: A genuine compliment, an act of forgiveness, a donation of food or clothing. (Trust me on this one!)

#5: Eat plain nuts as a snack instead of hitting the vending machine. Nut butter on an apple is also energizing and delicious.

#6: Tell the truth. Deceit takes a lot of psychic energy. The truth will not only set you free, it will also fire up your energy tanks.

#7: Begin the No Frills, No Excuses, Anytime, Anywhere Workout. The No-Frills Workout is the simplest way to get a huge energy boost with a 20 minute investment:
Run a mile. Do some squats. Do some push-ups. Do some crunches. (If you can't run a mile, do some jumping jacks till you're out of breath and then continue with the rest.)

#8: Create a new soundtrack: Music energizes everyone, and can change your mood in a heartbeat. (It can even influence your shopping behavior as most boutiques have figured out.) Your soundtrack can be your favorite year in pop music, or an all-disco extravaganza or the best of Guns and Roses mixed with Lawrence Welk- whatever turns you on. Make it your soundtrack and get buzzed just listening to it (perhaps while doing your workout or dancing).

#9: Dance! If you're an exhibitionist, do it on the front lawn. If you're shy, turn off the lights, double lock the door, pull the shades, and begin!

#10: Have sex. And if for whatever reason this just isn't the time, start enjoying the sexy foods I talk about in "Boost Your Energy", so you'll be more than ready for the next opportunity: almonds, avocados, celery, chile peppers, chocolate (in moderation, of course), oysters (only if you can afford the extra bucks), figs, and nutmeg.

You'll find even more tips- 150 of them in fact- on how to boost your energy and well-being in The 150 Most Effective Ways To Boost Your Energy. I hope you'll check the book out and even more important, I hope you'll benefit from the information inside!