The definition of vitality is, exuberant physical strength or mental vigor. Do you feel the exact opposite of this? You’re not alone.

According to a study by the CDC, women were nearly twice as likely as men to often feel very tired or exhausted. It’s easy to see why this would be so. As women, we are often caregivers, house cleaners, grocery shoppers (don’t forget about nose wiper, meal prepper, teen counselor...), often while being full-time workers at the same time. It’s no surprise that we aren’t feeling energized and invigorated.

At Kardish, we appreciate all that you do, and we want you to feel your very best while you do it. Here are our top strategies to feel empowered, positive and energized.

Addressing adrenal fatigue

The adrenal glands help us to manage stress but when we are chronically stressed and anxious the adrenals become exhausted. Symptoms of adrenal fatigue/exhaustion are weight gain, difficulty coping with emotions, the need for stimulants like coffee and waking in the middle of the night. A product like ADRENAsmart is designed to support the adrenal glands and improve symptoms.

Getting more of the sunshine vitamin

Vitamin D plays an important role in our mental health, and according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, “about 2 to 3% of Canadians will experience SAD in their lifetime. Another 15% will experience a milder form of SAD”. Adding vitamin D to your supplement regime can be a simple step in improving mood and mental wellbeing.

Doing something for you

You can take all the supplements in the world, but they will be of no use if you continue to do everything without taking time for yourself. Your family may think you’re super woman, but it’s time to recognize that you can’t do it all. Learn that it’s okay to say no and to take time for yourself. Go get a message, take a trip to the spa or go read a book at your favourite cafe.

Support a whole food diet

Eating a well balanced diet rich in whole foods is important, but sometimes life happens and we struggle to get our 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables. A multivitamin like New Chapter or MegaFood is made from fruits, vegetables and herbs and complement a nutritious diet.

Improving sleep hygiene

The biggest factor in poor sleep is simply a lack of sleep. We recommend taking the tv out of the bedroom and getting an old fashioned alarm clock instead of using your phone. Keeping electronics out of the bedroom will stop the temptation to scroll through emails or send a quick text. The artificial light from screens can reduce melatonin and excite your brain, which negatively affects our sleep quality.  If you need a bit of help with getting to sleep try melatonin or an herbal blend like Flora Sleep Essence.

Keep hydrated all day long

Start each day with a glass of water mixed with lemon juice and maybe even some powdered greens. Water is a vital component of every process within our body. Without enough water our mental focus, digestion and mood would be affected. Keep a reusable water bottle like S’well or jar at your desk and around the house to remind you to drink up. There are even free apps that remind you to get your eight cups a day.

Incorporate gentle exercise

If you are dealing adrenal fatigue, intense exercise may cause symptoms to worsen. Gentle exercise like yin yoga and tai-chi can improve flexibility, support lean muscle mass and decrease stress.

Balance blood sugar levels

Disglycemia is a term that refers to abnormalities in blood sugar levels. Many women deal with blood sugar irregularities on a daily bases; I like to call this “riding the blood sugar roller coaster”. Stabilize your blood sugar levels by eating macronutrient-balanced meals and snacks (this means protein, complex carbohydrates and fats). A smoothie with frozen berries, protein powder, chia seeds and coconut milk is a great example.