Your morning coffee may fill you with energy, but if you’re like most people, you start to drag some time after lunch. The morning pep has left your step, and all you want to do is take a nap or grab another cup of caffeine. Don’t do it! We’ve got some tremendous energy-boosting strategies to help you get through the afternoon.
- Have a laugh. Genuine laughter can increase heart rate, relieve stress, lower blood pressure, improve your mood, and boost endorphins, leaving you energized and motivated.
- Take a walk. Walking for 10 to 15 minutes boosts your energy more effectively than coffee.
- Make your breakfast healthy and your lunch petite. A high-protein, low-carb breakfast, followed by a small, energizing lunch of foods like nuts, eggs, or beans, can help keep your energy levels steady.
- Get some exercise. A midday workout may improve your afternoon energy and productivity.
- Pop in a piece of gum. Chewing gum has been shown to enhance alertness and attention and improve mood and cognitive function.
- Turn on some tunes. Upbeat music can boost alertness and attention, and if you can sing along, you’ll feel less sleepy.
- Sniff some citrus. The smell of lemons or oranges may help you feel more awake.
- Take regular breaks. If you know you’ll lag in the afternoon, be proactive earlier. A short break every 90 minutes should keep you from hitting the wall in the afternoon.
- Catch a nap. A quick power nap, 10 to 30 minutes long, can combat drowsiness, make you more alert, and improve mood and cognitive performance. However, beware of longer naps that can leave you feeling groggy.
- Hydrate all day long. Even a 1.5 percent loss in normal water volume can lead to fatigue and a lack of focus, so sip water throughout your day.
- Walk away from your desk. Leave your workspace for a few minutes to look out a window, go up and downstairs, or head to a different room. It will help you relax and put you in a better mood.
- Get outside. Even if you don’t have time for a walk, stepping outside for a breath of fresh air and a dose of vitamin D is beneficial.
- Meditate. Taking five minutes to breathe and do a short mindfulness exercise can help you regain your energy and focus.
- Smell some peppermint. As with citrus, smelling peppermint oil can give you a boost.
- Work around your slump. If you can’t seem to shake afternoon fatigue, plan your to-do list around it. Schedule your hardest tasks when you have the most energy, taking a break when you need it most.
At the Wellbridge Family of Athletic Clubs, we’re committed to providing the information and supportive environment you need to live your best life. At our clubs, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team before you’re challenged and motivated by top-notch instructors in our fitness classes. You’ll make new friends because you belong here. So join today or contact us to learn more.