No More Slump: Energizing in the Afternoon post from Kara Anderson at C3.
Do you ever find yourself crashing in the afternoons? This feeling of fatigue can really put a damper on your productivity putting you behind for the work days ahead.
Our bodies are programmed to feel fatigued midday (2pm) and at night, which is definitely part of the reason you are ready for that cat nap. If your office allows it, taking that nap is a great way to energize. For the rest of us without that luxury, here are 10 ways to beat that midday slump.
1. Take a stroll on your lunch break
Getting outside and soaking up that vitamin D not only will help energize you simply from the exercise, but studies have shown that vitamin D actually boosts your serotonin levels as well.
2. Choose a lighter high protein option
Meals high in carbohydrates and sugar have a direct connection to making you feel weighed down and tired. Choosing an option like a salad with protein, wraps, or tacos with corn tortillas can limit your carbohydrate and sugar intake.
3. Step away from your desk
Did you know that sitting at your desk for more than two hours without a break actually makes you tired and less productive? Our bodies were made to move around not to sit and stare at computer screens. The strain on our body and eyes simply exhausts us. Some offices already have programmed alerts to get up and move, make sure to take it! If your office does not, set and alarm and be sure to follow it.
4. Rosemary plants
Rosemary is the best herb to keep in your office. Not only have studies show that the scent of rosemary can give you and energy boost but it can improve your memory as well! If you’re feeling really tired, rub a sprig between your hands to release the scent and apply to your face and neck.
5. Afternoon snacks to boost energy
If you ate a light lunch and the onslaught of fatigue is approaching, you may need an energy boosting afternoon snack. A piece of dark chocolate not only boosts energy with its caffeine content but, well it’s chocolate! A handful of nuts is also a great high protein snack to boost energy levels. If you had a heavy lunch a cup of hot caffeinated tea without sugar and cream can give you just the right boost to get through your day.
6. Toggling between tasks
Sometimes when we are working on the same task for too long it can but us in a rut. When you notice yourself becoming less productive, try switching to another task for a few hours. The change of pace can give you just the right momentum to get through the rest of your day.
7. Hydration
It is easy to forget about the all too important hydration throughout the day. You may be surprised about how a simple glass of water can boost your energy levels. Try keeping a bottle or glass of water at your desk at all times if possible.
8. Schedule a meeting for the afternoon
Scheduling meetings for the afternoons is a great way to combat fatigue. Direct interaction can stimulate your brain just enough to squash those afternoon blues. Try to make it an interactive meeting so that everyone is actively participating.
9. Start your day with your most dreaded tasks
Most people have the highest energy levels is the mornings. Make sure to knock out your most daunting tasks first thing to avoid having to deal with your least desirable task when that slump hits. Doing all the things you love about your job can help prevent fatigue simply because you are always more enthusiastic about the things you love.
10. Move, Move, Move!
Movement is always the best way to get the blood flowing through your veins. Obviously regular exercise is always suggested and can help prevent afternoon fatigue in general. If you can get up and do at least 30 minutes of activity in the morning, your energy levels will skyrocket throughout the day. Taking a 15-minute walk around the block or simple standing up and stretching for a few minutes at your desk can also greatly improve your circulation giving you the energy to finish out the day.
