Get Some Get-Up-and-Go!

Try peppermint, recommends Bryan Raudenbush, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at West Virginia's Wheeling Jesuit University. His research indicates that the smell of peppermint enhances performance and alertness and can reduce fatigue. Try Burt's Bees Peppermint Shower Soap when you lather up each morning.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Studies have found that people who switch to high-fiber diets report feeling generally more energetic. And recent research from Cardiff University in Wales finds that consuming just 6 grams of fiber at breakfast can make you more alert throughout the day. Try 1/2 cup of Kellogg's All-Bran Cereal with Extra Fiber, which has more than double that amount.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Heavy traffic can make your commute an energy zapper. Loud music relieves stress and fights fatigue, according to a study in the sports psychology journal Athletic Insight. And let out your inner Mick Jagger, too — the deep breathing from singing relieves tension in your body and nourishes your brain with fresh oxygen.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

While coffee gives you an initial boost, it also raises stress hormones, which can drain your energy supply. To make a cup of rosemary tea: Place 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves in 8 ounces hot water; steep for 2 minutes, inhaling the wonderful, head-clearing aroma, then strain and sip.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Hunching over your keyboard can prevent deep breathing and good circulation — both energy boosters — and strain your spine, causing backache and fatigue. Get up once an hour to walk around and stretch your legs. This will encourage circulation in your muscles, prevent stiffness and give you an instant energy lift.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Workers who have plants on their desks report feeling more productive and less stressed out, according to recent research from Washington State University. If you want a plant that is low-maintenance, two of your best options are a Chinese evergreen or cast iron plant.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Bananas are the perfect snack to stash at your desk — they contain norepinephrine and serotonin, two brain chemicals that make you calmer and happier.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

According to this tradition, touching acupressure points on the body can remove negative energy, reduce stress and increase vitality.

Use your knuckles to tap rhythmically on your sternum (the center of your chest) to the beat of one heavy tap followed by two lighter ones.

You can also clear your head by rubbing your earlobes, which are a rich source of acupressure points.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

When the stress of having too many things to do at work becomes overwhelming, say "Stop!" sharply to yourself, or out loud if the situation permits. Then breathe in, hold your breath for a count of 10, breathe out slowly and relax your shoulders and hands. Breathe in again and, as you exhale, relax your forehead and jaw. When you resume what you were doing, make an effort to do it more slowly. You should feel more invigorated.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Women who attend church regularly and see good friends often are the healthiest because they feel less stressed out and have more emotional support and energy, according to researchers at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Make regular social meetings with your church group or book club a priority for staying more pepped.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Not only does it aid digestion, but a short walk can also boost your mood and increase your energy level for up to two hours, according to research from California State University. That's just enough time for you to help the kids with their homework and get them ready for bed — or to spend time reading a juicy book or something else that's just for you.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

Research from the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center reveals that taking a weekly yoga class — even one just 20 minutes long! — can reduce sleep disturbances by a whopping 28 percent. Study participants fell asleep faster and slept longer than their nonpracticing counterparts — yielding instant energy! To give it a try, sign up for a class in your area or check out a yoga DVD, such as Zyoga, The Yoga Sleep Ritual, $28, barnesandnoble.com.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.