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We all hit that difficult part of the afternoon when our energy dips, our concentration flags, and it feels like we're not going to be able to stay awake until the end of the workday without crawling under the desk to take a nap. At times like this, we reach for a cup of coffee or any product that has copious amounts of sugar to perk up. Unfortunately, we're all too familiar with the dreaded sugar crash that follows very shortly after...
There are healthier ways to beat that afternoon slump. Here are some suggestions for keeping your inner engine purring steadily until the commute home.
Move Around
Instead of reaching out for that caffeine fix around 2 pm, try changing the scenery and environment. Going for a small afternoon walk can help clear your head and wake you up for those remaining hours of the day. You'd be surprised just how effective seeing some new people go by the street can be.
If you have any work related errands to run outside- even better. It gives you a chance to stretch your legs while still checking off some tasks on your daily routine.
Conversation
If you lack the time to go out of the office an easier alternative is to have a good old fashioned conversation around the water-cooler. Catch up with individuals in different departments and try and keep the conversation as light hearted as possible. A few laughs can help brighten up the day and send you back to your desk in higher spirits.
Office Yoga
Lori Wiley, a certified yoga instructor and administrative assistant for HER Real Living, a corporate real estate firm, recommends doing a little rejuvenating yoga at your desk to battle the yawns. Here's Wiley's favourite pick-me-up:
While sitting at your desk:
- Raise your arms straight up above your head.
- Flap your hands really fast.
- Breathe in and out quickly.
Do this for as long as you can manage – or until your co-workers notice.
Eat Right
Your diet can make a big difference in your energy level throughout the workday. To avoid the slump in the afternoon - make sure you have a decent breakfast.
Sure - you've heard the whole "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" line before but there is much wisdom in those words. After a good night's sleep your body needs energy to get through the day. Depriving yourself of this meal will not only make performance sluggish, you'll be irritable and frustrated very quickly.
You should also try to avoid a very heavy lunch - in the steak type categories. Don't overdo the carbohydrates either, as you'll find yourself sleepier and deeper in the slump than you were before.
Finally aim to have a few snacks near your desk. If you feel like you need a quick pick me up and can't get away from your desk, a few munchies should get you going for the short term. Avoid sugary sweets and go for the natural offerings like some fresh fruit and vegetables.