The Secret To More Energy

As human beings, we are driven by an inherent desire for self-improvement, constantly seeking ways to enhance our performance. This innate drive has evolved over our history and is closely tied to our survival and adaptability. While animals primarily rely on instinctive behaviours, humans possess the unique ability to consciously seek self-improvement.

This quest is intimately connected to our desire to achieve higher energy levels. Often, it leads us to explore various avenues, one of the most popular being the search for food and substances to boost our energy levels. Caffeine, sugar, and energy drinks stand out as some of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances. Their promise is heightened alertness and increased energy.

Many of us kickstart their day with a cup of coffee, using it not only for its flavour but also to maintain heightened energy levels. Caffeine, sugar, and similar substances act as central nervous system stimulants, increasing the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, positively influencing our attention and mood. But the effects come at a cost.

In the long term, these substances are ineffective. The body develops a tolerance, requiring larger quantities to achieve the same effect. It's a common observation that, despite the perceived boost in energy, many people still find tasks as simple as climbing three flights of stairs to be a challenge.

Luckily, there is a more sustainable approach → Increasing mitochondrial cells.

The principle is straightforward: participating in physical activities consumes energy, which in turn gradually enhances strength and stamina.

Wether engaging in regular physical exercise, taking multiple walks a week or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, you’ll prepare your body for the next physical challenge.

The Role of Mitochondria in Energy Production

At the heart of energy production lies mitochondria, the cell's powerhouse responsible for generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the cell's energy currency. Aerobic exercises stimulate the creation of new mitochondria in muscle cells, known as mitochondrial biogenesis. This increase in mitochondria means a greater capacity for energy production, leading to improved endurance and energy levels.

Essentially, by expending more energy than we think we have, we enhance our mitochondrial density. Just like running, the more you train, the further you can run with less effort. When building muscle through training, the same principle applies. Making something appear effortless is the result of years of hard work.

The transition from struggling through a short run to comfortably completing a longer one, exemplifies the body's remarkable adaptability. Consistent exercise transforms the body, making it more efficient in energy production and utilization. Besides increased mitochondrial density, these adaptations include, improved cardiovascular function, enhanced oxygen utilization, and strengthened muscle endurance.

At first glance, the idea that exercise can make you feel more energized may seem counterintuitive. The key lies not in the immediate aftermath of exercise, which can and should of course leave you tired. The benefits come from the long-term bodily adaptations to regular physical activity.

Nevertheless, it's crucial to strike a balance. Overexerting oneself beyond limits can impede recovery. In a state of heightened exertion, our body fails to develop the necessary mitochondrial cells needed for progress. As with most goals, taking gradual steps is the way to go.

Optimizing our energy levels also hinges on cutting down on needless energy expenditure. It's vital to limit activities that drain energy substantially. Everybody is different. But with a bit of self-reflection and observation, striking the right balance between energy intake and output is achievable for everyone.

Some pointers to lead you in the right direction:

• Identify Excessive Energy Expenditure: Become more conscious of where you are sacrificing energy. This could be physical or mental activities that drain more energy than they should. Take a look at your calendar the past month. Which activities were energy-giving and which were energy-draining? Try to plan more of the former and less of the latter.

• Increase Physical Activity: If you feel lethargic, make sure it doesn’t stem from inactivity. Incorporate more movement into your daily routine to boost energy levels. An added benefit: Better mood.

• Rethink Dietary Choices: Pay attention to food choices. Some foods demand more energy to digest and can contribute to a feeling of sluggishness. People’s bodies react very differently to distinct types of food. Experiment, take note of your intake and how you feel after meals.

An otherwise often overlooked aspect of energy conservation is physical posture and muscle balance. Proper posture and balanced musculature enable efficient force distribution throughout the body and will make your life easier. The human body, operates as a complex lever system, a concept rooted in physics. Understanding and utilizing this system can significantly enhance our ability to perform tasks like carrying, pushing, or transporting objects.

Physically speaking, properly leveraging body mechanics can allow someone to push a 50kg stone with just 10kg of strength effort. This efficiency not only makes lifting and pushing objects easier but also conserves energy, allowing for increased activity, forming a positive cycle of energy use and additionally reduced risk of pain and injury.

The highest energy wins

Managing energy effectively involves a holistic approach that includes being mindful of energy drains, optimizing physical health, and understanding the mechanics of our body. This approach leads to a sustainable cycle of energy conservation and utilization.

Challenging our bodies not only enhances our physical capabilities but also taps into a deeper pool of vitality, empowering us to navigate life with greater vigor and enthusiasm. Therefore, when considering skipping a workout to conserve energy, remember that you are not merely spending energy; you are investing in a more energized future.

Questions

This week we want to leave you with 2 questions:

• Which activities were most energy draining in 2023?

• Which activities were most energy giving in 2023?

As always, thanks for reading.

Feel free to get in touch by emailing us at [email protected].
Stay tuned for our next update,
Anoush & Yann