We’ve all been there – feeling drained, sluggish and uninspired. Maybe you had a bad night’s sleep, or a stressful day at work. Whatever the reason, sometimes we need a quick pick-me-up to boost our mood and energy levels.
Believe it or not, just 5 minutes of exercise can make all the difference. Here are 5 easy exercises to instantly lift your mood and energy:.
1. Jumping jacks
Jumping jacks are a classic exercise that get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. To do a jumping jack, start with your feet together and your arms by your sides. Then jump up, spreading your feet apart and bringing your arms up above your head.
Jump back to the starting position and repeat. Try doing 10 jumping jacks in a row, then take a short break and do another set. You’ll be surprised how quickly this gets your heart rate up and wakes you up!.
2. Squats
Squats are another great exercise that work your legs and core, while also boosting your mood and energy levels. To do a squat, start with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms by your sides.
Then lower your body down, as if you’re sitting on a chair, keeping your back straight. Once you reach a 90-degree angle, push back up to the starting position. Try doing 10 squats in a row, then taking a short break and doing another set. You’ll feel the burn, but also a rush of endorphins!.
3. Push-ups
Push-ups are a classic exercise that work your chest, shoulders and triceps. They’re also a great way to quickly lift your mood and energy levels.
To do a push-up, start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet together. Then lower your body down, keeping your elbows close to your sides, until your chest touches the ground. Push back up to the starting position and repeat. Try doing 5 push-ups in a row, then taking a short break and doing another set.
You’ll feel the burn, but also a sense of accomplishment!.
4. High knees
High knees are a fast-paced exercise that get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. To do high knees, start standing with your feet hip-width apart. Then, one leg at a time, lift your knee up towards your chest, while also hopping on the other foot.
Continue alternating legs and hopping for 30 seconds to a minute. You’ll feel energized and maybe even a little silly!.
5. Lunges
Lunges are a great exercise that work your legs, glutes and core. They also require balance and coordination, which can help boost your mood and energy levels. To do a lunge, start with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips.
Then step forward with one foot and lower your body down until your back knee almost touches the ground. Push back up to the starting position and repeat on the other side. Try doing 5 lunges on each side, then taking a short break and doing another set. You’ll feel the burn, but also a sense of accomplishment!.
Conclusion
These 5-minute exercises are easy to do and require no equipment. They’re a great way to instantly lift your mood and energy levels, whether you’re at home, at work or on-the-go.
Next time you’re feeling drained and uninspired, try one or more of these exercises and see how it makes you feel!.