Feeling tired all the time and in a need of an injection of energy? If you feel your batteries need recharging there are some simple steps you can take to put a spring in your step and help improve your general health and wellbeing.

Whether you simply suffer from an afternoon energy slump or have genuinely found yourself feeling a bit run down, these fatigue-zapping solutions should leave you feeling refreshed and full of vitality.

• Energise your eating – Eating foods that balance your blood sugar is said to be the most effective way to avoid any slumps in the day. Start the day with a healthy breakfast, like eggs and wholemeal toast or fruit, yoghurt and handful of nuts. Snack on foods like avocados, oranges and peaches which all contain the immune-boosting amino acid glutathione.
• Drink plenty of water – If you often have a dry mouth, suffer from fatigue and a flushed complexion, you could be dehydrated. Drinking the recommended eight glasses a day might take some getting used to, but you could supplement some of these with herbal tea to keep your water levels up.
• Take to the floor – The huge success of programmes like Strictly Come Dancing has given ballroom dancing a big boost. Why not get together with some friends and boogie on down to a little salsa or try to tango. You'll have a great laugh together and be boosting your energy levels without even realising!
• Say no to energy vampires! – Do you have friends who always seem to drain your energy, or someone at work who leaves you feeling low? While it's good to share your problems, don't underestimate the draining effect of having someone off-load on you all the time. Make sure your relationships are evenly balanced!
• Get a good night's sleep – Ensuring a good night's sleep, preferably seven hours uninterrupted, is one of the simplest ways to boost your energy. But how many of us manage that? If you're having problems sleeping try not to eat for at least two hours before bedtime, read a book in bed, or better still get your partner to give you a massage!
• Make the most of the daylight – Natural daylight is known to increase our number of T-cells, which are vital for body maintenance. Now the days are getting longer get out and about in the sunshine as much as you can.
• Learn to meditate – We use up so much energy when we let things get to us. Finding the time and motivation to mediate can help you become more balanced and you'll soon find it easier to cope with whatever life throws at you.