Tired of Feeling Tired? Three Natural Energy Secrets at Our Senior Living Community

Do you feel tired more often than you’d like? You’re not alone. Many residents who now call our senior living community in Farmington Hills, MI, their home once struggled with their daily energy levels, too.

The good news is you don’t need dramatic lifestyle changes. The right mix of strategies and support helps you regain vitality and enjoy more active, energetic days. Let’s look at five natural ways to boost your energy levels while you enjoy the complete care and support at The Commons at Farmington Hills.

1. Jumpstart Your Day: The Power of Natural Light 

The right morning rituals can affect your energy levels by a lot throughout the day. Our senior living community, The Commons at Farmington Hills, has found that a few simple morning practices can make a world of difference in how you feel and function.

Natural light first thing in the morning can jumpstart your day. Seniors benefit from this practice in several ways:

• Regulates circadian rhythms: Morning light helps sync your body’s internal clock with the 24-hour environmental day. Better sleep quality and more stable rest-activity rhythms often result.
• Boosts mood and cognitive function: Morning light exposure links to improved mood, alertness and mental performance in older adults.
• Supports vitamin D production: Your body needs sunlight to make vitamin D, which keeps bones strong and the immune system healthy.

Three ways to utilize natural light:

• Open your curtains or blinds right after waking up.
• Take a few minutes outside in the morning.
• A light therapy lamp might help when natural light is scarce.

Keep in mind that aging reduces our light absorption. People in their eighties and nineties retain only 10% of a 10-year-old child’s circadian photoreception. This makes morning light exposure a vital part of senior routines.

Energizing breakfast choices

Your body needs good fuel after sleep. The proper breakfast provides lasting energy and sets a positive tone for your day. Here’s how to create an energizing breakfast:

• Get enough protein: Add 15-20 grams of protein to your morning meal. This maintains muscle mass, keeps blood sugar steady and fights hunger longer.
• Choose whole grains: Oatmeal, whole wheat toast or high-fiber cereals give you slow-release energy and key nutrients.
• Add fruits and vegetables: Colorful produce boosts your vitamin and antioxidant intake.
• Drink water: A glass of water helps rehydrate your body and supports its functions.

2. Gentle Morning Stretches for Increased Circulation

Gentle morning stretches wake up your body, improve flexibility and boost circulation. Seniors especially benefit from regular stretching, which helps maintain mobility and reduces fall risks. Let’s take a look at some simple stretches:

• Neck rolls: Roll your head gently to release neck and shoulder tension.
• Shoulder shrugs: Lift shoulders toward ears, hold briefly, then release.
• Seated spinal twist: Sit straight, put your right hand on your left knee and twist your left gently. Hold 10-30 seconds each side.
• Ankle rotations: Lift one foot and make circles with your ankle. Switch feet.
• Hamstring stretch: From a chair’s edge, extend one leg and lean forward with a straight back. Hold for 10-30 seconds per leg.

Breathe deeply and move slowly during these stretches. Stop if you feel pain. Talk to your doctor before starting new stretches if you have health or mobility concerns. Everyone has different priorities. The Commons at Farmington Hills helps residents customize their routines with supportive staff and various amenities. 

New habits take time to develop. Try these morning practices for a few weeks to see their full benefits. Soon, they might become essential parts of your day, helping you feel energized and ready to enjoy every moment.

3. The 9-Minute Energy Reset Technique

A quick reset often helps to shake off that sluggish feeling. Our 9-minute energy reset gives you a natural boost without caffeine or sugary snacks.

• Deep breathing exercises (3 minutes): This simple practice gets more oxygen to your brain and helps you feel more alert. Start with slow, deep breaths:
  • Breathe in for four counts
  • Hold for four counts
  • Breathe out for four counts
  • Do this 5-6 times
• Light physical activity (3 minutes): This short burst of movement helps boost your heart rate and energy. Pick one of these quick moves:
  • March in place
  • Do arm circles
  • Try seated leg lifts
• Mindfulness moment (3 minutes): Close your eyes and be present. This brief mindful break can reset your mind and reduce tiredness.
  • Feel your breath
  • Notice body sensations
  • Let go of stress

Creating Your Personalized Energy Management Plan

Everyone’s energy patterns are different and what helps one person might not work for another. The Commons at Farmington Hills encourages residents to try different approaches and find their best fit. Our caring team can support you in your retirement years. Call (248) 477-7400 to learn more.

Your experience toward better energy begins with a single step. Pick one strategy to implement today and add more as your confidence grows. Life becomes more enjoyable with patience and the correct support when you find the energy to participate fully in each day.