Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are widely used in fields like environmental monitoring and healthcare, but they face challenges like energy constraints and limited network lifetime. Inefficient cluster head (CH) selection and routing often result in premature energy depletion. This paper addresses the problem of how to improve energy efficiency and extend the network lifetime through optimized CH selection and multi-hop routing. We propose an energy-aware communication protocol integrating Elite Opposition-based Shark Smell Optimization (EOSSO) for CH selection and the Improved Mine Blast Algorithm (IMBA) for optimized multi-path routing. EOSSO selects CHs based on residual energy, node degree, and distance to the base station, while IMBA discovers energy-efficient routes. Simulations show that this method extends network lifetime by 29%, reduces energy consumption by 42%, and improves packet delivery ratio by 18%, outperforming existing protocols like LEACH, Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), and Mine Blast Algorithm (MBA).