We’ve all been there. It starts around 3 p.m. The yawning, the heavy eyelids. You just want to crawl under your desk and take a nap. If you’ve found yourself contemplating the George Constanza under-the-desk-sleeping method, here are five tips for avoiding the afternoon slump.
If the weather allows, try to spend your lunch break outside. A little sunshine and some fresh air are just what you need to recharge your batteries.
If you find yourself feeling sluggish, you may be dehydrated. Water Increases Your Energy Level! “In general, dehydration leads to fatigue, which slowly eats away at the bodily functions you need to get through the day. The more water you drink, the more awake and alert you’ll feel.”
Chances are if you eat a 12 oz. steak, 3 lbs of pastrami, and a loaded baked potato for lunch, you’ll be in a food coma shortly after finishing your meal. Keep it light! Try a lean piece of chicken with steamed veggies, fresh juice, or a chickpea salad.
Sitting all day isn’t good for us. So try and get out of your chair, stretch, and take a quick jaunt around the office, up a few flights of stairs, or around the block. You’ll avoid the health risks of being in a chair all day and get that quick burst of energy to get you through the rest of the day!
Make time in your life for an exercise routine. Working out regularly can help increase your energy levels, reduce stress and anxiety, aid with sleep, and give you long-lasting energy throughout the day.
Chances are, if you stayed up until 3 AM binge-watching the most recent season of Orange is the New Black — you’re going to be extremely tired in the morning. Spending the entire day in a zombie-like state sounds pretty dreary and unproductive, and no amount of coffee is going to get you back to a normal energy level. So make sure to get your 8 hours of sleep, Netflix can wait!
Take a moment to remember what’s most important in your life and dial-up someone you care about. Hearing the voice of a best friend, a sibling, parents, or your spouse may be just what you need to put some pep back in your step.