Nothing you do is going to replace the natural energy benefits of a healthy diet and a good sleep routine, but if you are lacking energy and need to work on your firefighter promotional exam prep give these a try.
Drink Water
If you are feeling drained before a study session, grab a glass of water and drink it before you begin. If you are dehydrated, even a little bit, you may feel cranky, tired, and have trouble focusing just to name a few things. The best way to benefit from the wonderful effects of water is to drink it consistently throughout the day so your body does not reach the point of mild dehydration. Drinking a glass of water before a study session, and having more handy, will keep you feeling energized and focused throughout
Eat!
Another way to boost energy naturally is with food. Certain foods, such as fruit, vegetables, yogurt, eggs, fish, chicken, grains, beans and so on are great snacks to enjoy when you are feeling low on energy. Grab a healthy energizing snack before or during a study break and see if you feel a difference in your energy level during your study session.
Exercise
Exercising, or moving your body, is an excellent natural energizer. Exercising boosts energy by delivering “oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helping your cardiovascular system work more effectively.” When your heart is working more effectively so is the rest of your body, giving you an increase in energy to tackle your firefighter promotional exam studies.
Take a Cold Shower
There are so many benefits to taking a cold shower, but the big one is the big boost of energy you feel after. This energy boost occurs because the cold water causes an increase in blood circulation in the body, similar to exercise. The cold shower gets your blood pumping and your body ready to tackle the day. A cold shower can also help alleviate any muscle soreness, reduce stress, and is great for your hair and skin.
Stop and Smell the Rose…mary
Did you know smelling certain things can make you feel better? They can! Rosemary specifically has been shown to, “fight physical exhaustion.” The smell of rosemary can also help with your memory. Go get yourself a rosemary plant or some essential oils and give it a good sniff, or even better keep it on your desk while you are studying, and see what happens.
Stand Up
Most people sit while studying and working at a desk but I encourage you to try standing. Set your study area up at a kitchen counter or somewhere higher, they even make standing desks now because the idea of standing while working has become so popular. Sitting while studying (or doing anything for that matter) slows your entire body down. When you are working on your firefighter promotional exam work that is the last thing you want to happen, you want your blood flowing and brain working at its best. Standing increases the blood flow throughout your body, including to your brain. It will also improve your posture and your back will thank you.
Avoid These To Stay Energized
Alcohol
Processed Foods
Smoking
Caffeine
Inactivity
The Takeaway
There are so many ways to give yourself the energy boost you need without resorting to unhealthy energy drinks or massive amounts of caffeine. Next time you sit down (or stand) to study for your firefighter promotional exam try one of these energy boosting activities to keep you going until you finish your work.