I’ve been thinking a lot lately about fatigue and energy, especially how so many of us are constantly running on empty. It’s crazy how often we feel tired, even after a full night’s sleep, and I know I’m not the only one struggling with that. I’ve done a little digging, and I want to share some things that I think could really help. It’s wild how many factors go into how energized we feel every day.

First up, what we eat plays a huge role in our energy levels. It’s tempting to grab quick fixes like sugary snacks or processed foods when we’re feeling tired, but those can actually make things worse. They cause our blood sugar to spike and then crash, leaving us more exhausted than before. Instead, focusing on whole foods—think leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins—gives us more sustained energy throughout the day. Plus, keeping an eye on hydration is huge. Even mild dehydration can make you feel sluggish and unfocused. So, drinking enough water throughout the day is key to keeping your energy up. How much is enough? My rule of thumb is half your bodyweight in ounces, minimum.

I also found out that gut health is a major player when it comes to energy. I knew the gut was important for digestion, but it turns out it does a lot more than that. A healthy gut helps us absorb nutrients properly, which directly impacts our energy levels. If our gut is off, it can lead to feeling tired all the time. Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented veggies, along with fiber-rich foods, can help balance your gut and improve how you feel.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I have struggled with candida overgrowth for the last 20 years or so. I cleaned up my diet, and then over the years this lesson eased its way out of my mind. About five years ago, I began “eating healthy” again. I choose the best, clean whole foods. I made my own sourdough bread, I ate clean fruits & veggies and my “candy” was dates.

Unfortunately, this “healthy diet” was making me sick! My Candida Monster came back in full force, creating chronic fatigue, bloating, anxiety, and depression. I began blaming all of these symptoms on various other things happening in my life, including hormone imbalances and then it hit me: it was candida overgrowth! I went back on a strict candida diet and started a 30 day Cleanse & Restore and within the first week my energy levels and mood were back on track! Next group cleanse begins Sept 30  2024. Email me for questions and guidance for your cleanse. 

Of course, exercise is a big one, too. Even when we’re feeling wiped out, moving our bodies can actually give us more energy in the long run. It doesn’t have to be intense—something as simple as walking or a quick yoga session gets the blood flowing and delivers oxygen and nutrients to your cells, which is super energizing.

Speaking of quick boosts, essential oils can be a lifesaver. I’ve been using peppermint and wild orange lately, and I swear they work wonders when I need a pick-me-up. Whether I diffuse them or just apply a little to my wrists, they give me a natural energy lift that feels way better than reaching for coffee.

But it’s not all about food and movement—sleep quality is another big piece of the puzzle. I know we hear it all the time, but getting deep, restorative sleep makes such a difference. Poor sleep leaves us dragging through the day no matter how many cups of coffee we drink. Setting a solid bedtime routine can really help with this, especially if stress is keeping you up at night.

Speaking of stress, it’s probably one of the biggest energy drainers. Chronic stress keeps your body in fight-or-flight mode, which can make you feel constantly tired. Practicing mindfulness, whether it’s meditation, deep breathing, or just taking a few moments for yourself, can reduce stress and restore your energy. Check out my Yoga2Life Online Studio schedule for classes that will work for you.

Lastly, sometimes fatigue isn’t just about lifestyle—it can be linked to hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies. Things like low levels of iron, vitamin D, or B12 can cause extreme fatigue, so it’s always a good idea to check with a doctor if you suspect something’s off. I have fallen in love with dōTerra’s LifeLong Vitality daily smart supplements. Within a week of taking these I felt more energetic. I won’t go a day without them!

At the end of the day, fatigue can come from so many different places—what we eat, how we sleep, how we manage stress—but making small changes in these areas can add up to a big energy boost. I hope this helps and that you can start feeling more energized soon!