How To: Boost energy naturally

If it's all you can do to drag yourself through the day, why not increase your stamina with these time-honored techniques. Watch this video to learn how to boost energy naturally.

Step 1. Eat protein for breakfast

Start the day with protein, like eggs, yogurt, or peanut butter. People who ate mostly protein for breakfast reported higher energy levels than those who started the day with a carbohydrate-rich meal.

Step 2. Skip the "energy" drinks

Skip the so-called energy drinks in favor of water. A British study found that the caffeine in energy drinks makes you more sluggish in the long run. Ditto for the sugar in soda and many fruit juices. Above all, stay hydrated: Dehydration is a powerful energy sapper.

Step 3. Get some plants

Put some plants on your desk. One study found that when workers had greenery nearby, they were 12 percent quicker at a given computer task and their systolic blood pressure lowered by one to four points.

Step 4. Splash on some cold water

Hold your wrists under cold water for 20 seconds and then dab some on the back of your neck. This athlete's trick increases your heart rate a bit, providing a quick energy boost.

Step 5. Sniff peppermint

Take a whiff of peppermint essential oil. Studies show it provides an instant pick-me-up.

Step 6. Practice deep breathing

Practice deep breathing by counting to four while inhaling, holding for five seconds, and then exhaling to the count of four. Do this several times a day and it will give you more energy by providing you with more oxygen.

Step 7. Put on some music

Put on some loud music. Research shows it combats fatigue and helps relieve stress.

Step 8. Get a check-up

If you've taken all these steps and you still have no get up and go, get yourself to a doctor.

FACT: About one in five college students who use energy drinks reported experiencing headaches or heart palpitations.