Most of us have experienced an afternoon slump at some point. You know the feeling. First, your day starts off super productive, and you get many things done. Then, like clockwork, your energy plummets around 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. The afternoon lack of energy can lead to lost productivity and unnecessary mistakes.
Even though it’s normal to experience an afternoon slump due to Circadian rhythms, it can feel a bit frustrating to feel so sleepy when you have many more things to do.
Think it is time to just give in to the afternoon slump and have a nap? Here are fast ways to fight the afternoon fatigue as soon as it starts.
- Stand Up And Move
Sitting for many hours is shown to cause tiredness. To combat the sluggishness, get up and move around a bit. Doing so is incredibly simple and will do wonders! You can climb the stairs, walk down the hall, or even just take a walk in the office. If it’s possible, you should aim to take a walk outside since getting some fresh air is shown to revive energy even quicker. But even if going outside isn’t a feasible option, a quick stroll in the building will also increase energy levels immensely!
- Stay Hydrated
Dehydration causes many symptoms including sleepiness and fatigue. Next time you are feeling that afternoon slump, drink some water. Trying to ensure that you sip enough water throughout the day can help prevent an afternoon slump altogether. Not only will staying hydrated help you feel energized, it’ll also help you feel healthier overall.
- Give Your Eyes A Rest
Eyestrain has become a very common problem due to the fact that people use digital devices and look at screens all day long. Eyestrain can make your eyes feel tired, as well as cause headaches, fatigue, and sleepiness. To help give your eyes a break follow the American Optometric Association’s 20/20/20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and shift your eyes to something at least 20 feet away. Doing so will significantly reduce eyestrain, thus reducing your afternoon fatigue.
- Listen To Some Music
Turning on some music will help keep you from dozing off and will boost your energy levels and alertness. Listening to some energizing music will help you feel more positive, as well as improve your attention.
- Eat A Smaller Lunch
A big lunch contributes to your afternoon slump. A big lunch may seem like a good way to boost your energy, but it actually does the opposite. Next time, try eating a smaller lunch with food that will actually boost your energy. Some examples of energy-boosting foods include eggs, hummus, avocados, beans and leafy green vegetables.
- Don’t Skip Breakfast
Skipping breakfast is actually shown to contribute to afternoon fatigue. Breakfast is an extremely important meal, and ensuring that you eat breakfast will make all the difference in how you feel throughout the day. Ideally, your breakfast should include healthy protein such as yogurt or eggs, as well as a source of carbs such as whole grain bread.
- Stretch
Stretching has the power to remarkably increase your energy levels. Stretching increases blood and nutrient flow in your body, consequently helping you feel refreshed and energized. There are even plenty of stretches you can do at your desk!
- Have An Energizing Snack
Eating a healthy midday snack can be an absolute lifesaver when you’re feeling super sleepy in the afternoon. Healthy snack ideas include watermelon, celery sticks, carrots, mixed nuts, or apple slices with peanut butter.
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