How to Boost Your Energy Level in the Afternoon

By eHow Health Editor

Rate: (8 Ratings)

Sometimes called the afternoon slump, it's the time of day when you feel tired and lethargic, and you have increasing difficulty staying alert and focused. There are many options to help you feel more refreshed and invigorated.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Take a walk or get some form of activity during your lunch break. Even a 15-minute walk can greatly enhance your energy level.
Step2
Drink more water. Dehydration can often leave you feeling sluggish.
Step3
Choose lunch options wisely. High-fat or high-carbohydrate meals may leave you feeling sleepy.
Step4
Grab an afternoon snack. Low blood sugar can often contribute to lack of energy and difficulty concentrating. Choose a snack that's not high in sugar.
Step5
Take a quick nap. A brief 15- to 20-minute catnap can be time well spent.
Step6
Go outdoors. A few minutes of fresh air and natural light can work wonders.
Step7
Spray a rejuvenating aromatherapy mist on your face or in your room. There are many kinds of sprays with fragrances like rosemary or cinnamon clove that smell and feel invigorating.
Step8
Examine your office or room setup. Principles from feng shui can help you organize your space to enhance the way you feel in your office.
Step9
Get a seated massage. Ten to fifteen minutes of massage can help stimulate blood flow, relieve tension and refocus your energies.
Step10
Eat or drink something with caffeine in it. Caffeine is known to increase alertness and can be found in colas, coffee, chocolate, mints - even some brands of bottled water.

Tips & Warnings

  • Know what's appropriate for your workplace.
  • Clear or light yellow urine is an indicator of being well-hydrated.
  • Use caffeine and sugar sparingly.
  • A good night's sleep can help ward off the afternoon yawns.
  • Always consult with your health care provider before trying any herbal or medicinal product.
  • Caffeine is a stimulant and should be used with caution. It is also a diuretic, meaning it increases the amount of urine you produce, which can lead to dehydration.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 I eat a piece of fruit every afternoon. I keep a very pretty fruit bowl in my office and it's always full. Take the piece of fruit outside somewhere and relax while eating it. I stay outside for at least 15 minutes. I really look forward to my afternoon fruit breaks and this way I am assured to have fresh fruit daily.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Perform a short stretch session to get the tension out of your muscles and get the blood flowing again.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Available from aromatherapy shops - a little peppermint oil on your temples, or all around your hairline, perks you up and gets rid of headaches as an added bonus!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Slip in a workout session during your lunch break. It will boost your energy levels and give you time to do other things in the evening.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Eat little snacks like granola bars and skittles.

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eHow Article:  How to Boost Your Energy Level in the Afternoon

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

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