This post covers five ways to beat afternoon tiredness. Have you ever sat at your desk in the afternoon struggling to keep your eyes open? There are things you can do to regain your energy and get through the rest of the day until it’s time to finally go home.
11 Easy Ways To Beat Afternoon Tiredness
Go For a Walk
Our bodies are not designed to stay productive and alert for eight hours straight. Your cortisol levels fluctuate, which can result in that dreaded afternoon slump that makes you long for your bed. A good way to get your blood flowing and reboot your energy is by going for a brisk walk around the block. A change of scenery is just what you need to get you back on track.
Have a Cup of Green Tea
Green tea is natural and contains a tad more caffeine than soda, not to mention all the health benefits it provides. It also contains catechins that give your body a wonderful antioxidant boost.
RELATED: 7 Herbal teas you should try for their health benefits
Eat a Proper Breakfast
Are you guilty of skimping on breakfast, or often give it a miss altogether? If that’s the case, your body is missing out on essential nutrients that assist with problem-solving, concentration, and being productive. It can also make you over-indulge during lunch which can result in elevated sugar levels. This will make you feel hungry a few hours later.
Drink Enough Water
Your body needs water to operate efficiently. When you’re not getting enough, it causes your body to slow down. A drink of water can replenish you and make you feel less tired by transporting oxygen and nutrients to your cells. Drinking plenty of water can also keep heartbeat and blood pressure levels regulated.
Reduce Your Sugar Intake
Similar to the effects of caffeine, sugar also gives you an easy, quick boost, however, it doesn’t last and you’ll soon experience a drop in blood sugar levels and energy. Steer clear from unhealthy sugars found in sodas and sweetened fruit juices. Rather boost your sugar with 100% natural fruit juice or fresh fruits.
Do Some Yoga Stretches
Yoga involves deep breathing and slow movements which are excellent for getting your blood moving. Yoga also helps to get rid of tension in the body, and with many poses, you don’t even have to get down on the floor. A few neck shoulder or neck rolls while standing up or staying seated can help. Remember to take deep breaths.
RELATED: 13 Different Kinds of Yoga Styles
Grab a Snack
An afternoon snack can combat that afternoon sluggishness, especially if you focus on energy-boosting snacks with the right vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Grab some crunchy veggies, fresh fruit, or yogurt.
Take a Break
When you’re feeling tired, your body is trying to tell you something – perhaps that you need a break, even if it’s tempting to keep pushing on. When you give your body and mind a few minutes to rest, you’ll be more productive when you come back and be more focused.
Let Some Light In
Never underestimate the value of light. Our bodies take cues from light that alerts us to wake up or when it’s time for bed. When tiredness overcomes you at work, a light therapy lamp or simply bright sunlight can do wonders to make you feel more alert and awake.
Take a Short Catnap
A quick 15-minute nap can go a long way in resetting your body and making you feel more refreshed. Close your office door during lunchtime and set a timer for 15 minutes. Always take a nap before 3 pm otherwise you might struggle to fall asleep at night.
Try Chewing Gum
The physical action of chewing increases blood flow to the brain and helps with getting your heart rate going. This will wake your body up and make you feel more focused and alert.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it – 11 easy ways to beat afternoon tiredness! Why not give some or all of them a try and let me know if they worked for you? Have you got any additional tips and tricks that you know work? Please share them with me in the comments.
Sending you much love, light, and refreshing vibes!
Anthea