By Yasmine Zapp

Many dread this time of year, when we turn our clocks ahead one hour. Sure, it may seem like we lose an hour of sleep, BUT we gain an hour of daylight — which is a good thing.

For those who find the adjustment a challenge, don’t despair! Here are a few tips on how to get the energy you need without missing those “extra” Z’s.

Breakfast: Fill your body with foods that are high in protein and chock full of fiber. Your body will metabolize them slowly and give you hours of energy. Wheat toast, oatmeal, bananas, yogurt, scrambled eggs with veggies. Think comforting, healthy food.

Another foodie trick: Be sure to snack every 3-4 hours to keep your energy stabilized. Choose almonds or apples. The crunch will also perk you up.

Exercise: Get sweaty! It will help you kick that dragging feeling to the curb. Try to do it outdoors. A run, walk, or hike will put you in a great frame of mind for the day. That sunshine (a.k.a. Vitamin D producer) delivers a great mental boost. Drink it in.

Get Silly: Laugh. Make time for a friend. Sing out loud in your car when driving to work. Have lunch out or catch a movie. A happy body is one that also stays in motion.

Meditate: If you don’t already, you should start today. For 15 minutes give yourself a time out. Breathe deep and try to stretch. Clear your mind and look ahead to the bright future.

As much as you may want to, try NOT to sleep in. Instead, welcome the bright new day and get out of bed early — that would be a good time to meditate.

When it does come to bedtime, keep your same winter routine and try to not bring the laptop into bed with you. Give your eyes and mind a break.

While it may take 2 – 3 days for you to get into your new routine, hang in there! Remember: Summer is just around the corner.

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