Feeling strung out and exhausted? Surviving on caffeine and protein shakes alone isn’t going to give you the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed look.
Between castings, fittings, and the occasional “just one drink” that turns into three, life is a runway, and you’re strutting down it at full speed. And if your energy levels are crashing faster than your phone battery, it might be time for a different approach.
Instead of getting by on espresso shots, models and creatives are turning to holistic medicine as part of a long-term strategy to stay energized without burning out. Taking its cue from natural therapies, this ancient form of traditional medicine is practiced by many healthcare professionals.
And no, it doesn’t mean giving up your oat milk latte. It’s thinking bigger than quick fixes.
Here’s how to stay fabulous and functional, with no mental health crash required.
#1. Move Smarter, Not Harder
Contrary to popular belief, running yourself into the ground at the gym won’t magically cure exhaustion.
Overexercising can lead to fatigue and heightened stress levels. Harvard Health reports that light to moderate activity, yoga, and walking can improve energy and mood by increasing oxygen flow and releasing endorphins.
Incorporate small movements throughout your day instead of pushing through one exhausting session.
Bonus: It gives you more time to practice that signature catwalk strut.
#2. Sleep is Non-Negotiable (Sorry, Not Sorry)
Late nights are inevitable, but consistently poor sleep? That’s a one-way ticket to burnout city.
WebMD explains that sleep deprivation doesn’t make you tired; it messes with your memory, immune system, and mood. And you can’t “make up” for it all on the weekend.
Set a bedtime alarm, invest in blackout curtains, and wind down like it’s a ritual. Herbal tea, journaling, or a no-phones-in-bed rule should have you sleeping like a baby.
Natural Medicine of Denver emphasizes that specialty lab testing can get to the root cause of sleep problems. A naturopathic doctor reviews your labs from a functional medicine approach rather than just what is expected as “normal.”
#3. Adaptogens: Nature’s Energy Elixirs
Feeling foggy by mid-afternoon? Before grabbing another energy drink, consider a more balanced method.
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and cordyceps help the body adapt to stress and support sustained energy without the crash.
These herbs have been used in holistic medicine for centuries to boost vitality and restore balance.
Try them in teas, capsules, or smoothie boosters. Be sure to check with your medical doctor first if you’re on medications, as nature’s not always conflict-free.
#4. Ditch the Energy Drinks
We know that citrus-blast-zero-sugar-hyper-caffeinated potion feels like a lifesaver. Spoiler alert: it’s probably zapping your energy in the long run.
Cleveland Clinic warns that energy drinks can spike your blood pressure, disrupt sleep, and create dependency. Not exactly the wellness glow-up you’re going for.
Opt for hydrating alternatives such as coconut water, green tea, or warm lemon water. Even better? Make a DIY “energy elixir” with herbal teas like ginseng, peppermint, or tulsi.
Trust us, your heart and your skin will thank you.
#5. Breathe Like You Mean It
When was the last time you took a deep breath? Breathwork, a staple of many holistic practices, helps oxygenate the blood, calm the nervous system, and sharpen your focus.
It’s a reset button built into your body.
Start with a simple technique: inhale for four, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold for four. (It’s called box breathing, and it’s oddly addictive.)
Even one minute can make a difference, according to wellness practitioners featured in Bold Journey. Think of it as a mini vacation without leaving your chair or smudging your eyeliner.
#6. Feed Your Energy
You can’t power a photo shoot or a Tuesday on a muffin and matcha.
Balanced meals with complex carbs, healthy fats, and protein help keep your blood sugar steady and your energy high. That means avocado toast is still in, but pair it with eggs or tofu and skip the third croissant.
Health.com says that nutrient-rich foods like oats, leafy greens, and nuts support long-term energy production.
Throw in some B12 and iron-rich snacks. Think pumpkin seeds or dark chocolate. Yes, chocolate. You’re welcome.
Slow Is the New Hustle
You don’t have to choose between being fabulous and being functional. Staying energized is about sustainable choices and not last-minute fixes.
Complementary and alternative medicine reminds us that burnout isn’t a badge of honor but a warning sign.
So go ahead and be fashionably late, if you must. Yet, show up fully present, rested, and with your glow intact.
The world doesn’t need another tired icon. It requires a radiant, recharged one who ate and left no crumbs.