Fatigue is so common among Americans that it almost feels normal. A new report from Harvard Medical School says that although the underlying cause of persistent fatigue can be hard to identify, that doesn’t mean the fatigue is imaginary.

According to Harvard Medical School experts, fatigue often signals that something is wrong, physically or emotionally. Still, most people – even those being treated for fatigue-producing illnesses – can take steps to boost their energy.

The Harvard Medical School experts offer the following strategies that can help:

• Control stress. Relaxation therapies like meditation, self-hypnosis, yoga and tai chi are effective stress-reduction techniques.
• Lighten the load. Have a prioritized list of “must-do” activities, and pare down less important tasks.
• Exercise. Exercise almost guarantees sound sleep. It also causes the body to release hormones that boost energy.
• Eat for energy. Small meals or snacks every few hours can reduce the perception of fatigue by ensuring a steady supply of nutrients to the brain.
• Don't smoke. Nicotine speeds the heart rate, raises blood pressure and stimulates brain-wave activity associated with wakefulness, making it harder to fall asleep. Furthermore, its addictive properties can awaken the body with strong cravings.
• Enjoy the outdoors. Gardening, hiking or walks along the beach can help restore body and soul. There aren’t any scientific studies documenting that communing with nature can actually fight fatigue, but some scientists are exploring this theory.

Source: Harvard Medical School