Exhaustion is a condition that plagues many of us. With all the running around required today, it's no wonder we feel tired and lost at times. With the high-stress, fast-paced requirements of life, it is important to minimize conditions that cause fatigue. Try these tactics to eliminate tired days:

Learn stress management. When a person is feeling stressed, his muscles are tenser and his body uses more energy. Consider taking a workshop, talking to a profes-sional or reading a book on stress management.

Make sure that you are getting enough sleep. If you are putting in eight hours of sleep time but still waking feeling less than rejuvenated watch for slumber-inhibitors. Eat a lighter dinner. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants for at least four hours prior to bedtime, longer if possible.

Exercising 3-5 days a week, for 30 minutes or more, is a great way to increase your energy level. While it may seem you cannot spare thirty minutes, you will have more productive time and be more energetic if you incorporate regular exercise into your schedule. With this new-found energy, making up the time spent on exercising will be a snap. Many gyms now have day care. Or better yet, involve your child in the activity. Jogging strollers and bike attachments are perfect for toddlers. Try a bicycle or two, a long walk or lap at the pool with older chil-dren. This helps create quality time, increases self-esteem and energy, while teaching your child the benefits of tak-ing care of yourself. What a tradeoff for a 1 to 2 hour investment of your time each week.

Watch what you eat and when. Lunches that are high in carbohydrates serve as great pick-me-ups for a couple of hours, but lead to an afternoon slump. Eat a lunch high in protein to avoid the afternoon lull. Also avoid eating after seven p.m., if possible.

Be careful of dehydration. When you become thirsty, your body might be dehydrated. This is a common cause of fatigue. Attempt to drink eight to ten glasses of water each day.

Watch your weight. If you are more than ten pounds overweight, consider making preparations to switch to a more healthy eating regimen. Excess weight leads to fatigue.