We all know the feeling. It’s 3pm and you’ve already had lunch. Your afternoon snack is long gone but you’re still feeling the afternoon slump. Aside from sneaking a sugary snack from the vending machine, what can we do to avoid this non-productive slump in the work day?
Here are some different ways you can reenergize your weekday afternoon and defeat the afternoon slump.
1. The powernap
Provided you aren’t already suffering from any sleep disorders, taking a 10 minute power nap in a quiet corner can actually be the key to a successful afternoon of work. In a recent study Dr Leon lack, a professor at Flinders University found that a short nap of 10 minutes can give you a refreshed feeling that lasts for hours. For maximum effect, take 20 minutes to allow for dozing off.
2. Coffee
If you aren’t someone who drinks coffee all day everyday then a coffee in the afternoon can give you the extra pizazz you need to make it through the last few hours of work. Although as coffee is a stimulant, it can affect how well you drift off to sleep at night when consumed in the afternoon, Charlene Eastman of Rush University told The Scientist.
3. Go for a walk
Studies suggest that drowsiness can be overcome by a quick burst of energy that gets the blood flowing, such as going for a brisk walk. A study by Environmental Science and Technology found that a walk outdoors left people feeling more energetic and in a better mood.
4. Chew some gum
According to a study conducted by Cardiff University chewing gum can improve alertness and intellectual performance by increasing blood flow to the brain.
5. Have a light lunch
After eating heavy or rich meals your body puts more energy into digestion. Keep lunch light with vegetables or lean protein. A study by Oxford University found that Vitamin B, B12 and folic acid in vegetables such as broccoli, kale and spinach work to improve brain function. So pass on the chips or pasta.
You might also like:
Healthy snacks that can cure your afternoon slump
Food to eat on Friday to feel good by Monday
How to find time to relax in a busy schedule
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Everything you need to know about online medical consultations
Native ad body.
5 Ways To Curb Your Sugar Cravings
