We are all familiar with that time of day when we just want to take a nap. We’ve been busy for half the day and our energy has been spent. It is very tempting to down a big cup of coffee or an energy drink, but there are more natural and healthy ways to stay awake and alert. Here are five easy ways to become more energized throughout the day:
Stretch it out
If you spend all day sitting, it is easy to want to drift off. By moving around, you get your circulation going and warm up your muscles. Stretching is an easy and pain-free way to wake yourself up, and a daily exercise routine like yoga can even help reduce anxiety and depression.
Have a snack
Low energy is often due to low blood sugar. When you feel drowsy, eating a snack with protein, fat, and fiber is a great way to boost your energy. Some ideas include peanut butter and crackers, or yogurt with almonds or cashews. Adding more magnesium into your diet (found in fish and whole grains) is another way to fight long-term fatigue.
How to Stay Alert Without Coffee or Energy Drinks: Try aromatherapy
Try aromatherapy
The smell is very powerful. Certain smells can make us feel sleepy or more alert. A fragrance like lemon stimulates the body, so keeping some lemon essential oil or even just a lemon-scented candle or diffuser on hand can help jolt you out of the midday slump.
Drink more water
Most people do not drink enough water, and being even a little bit dehydrated can make you feel tired. If you’re feeling drowsy, drinking a big glass of water can boost your energy and sharpen your mind. Drinking a lot of caffeine counters the effects of water, so if you drink coffee or caffeinated tea, be sure to add more water alongside.
Get more sun
Too many offices and cubicles are far away from windows and natural sunlight. If you start to feel droopy, get out into the sun. Sunlight exposes you to Vitamin D, which has been linked to increases in energy and halts the production of melatonin the body, which makes you sleepy.
