Facing an afternoon energy slump is something that happens to most of us. It may be entirely normal for you, but in some cases, it can reflect a health issue. If your low energy levels affect your quality of life, you should talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying possible health conditions.
Even outside of medical conditions causing your fatigue, it can be dangerous to have low energy levels or feel fatigued at times when you shouldn’t.
For example, many car accidents and also accidents involving big trucks occur because of fatigue.
We think of fatigue as something that’s not a big deal, but it’s essential that you stay on top of it.
With that in mind, the following are some ways that you can naturally get past an afternoon energy slump.
Don’t Consume a Lot of Carbs at Breakfast and Lunch
You should choose healthy breakfast and lunch foods to keep you fueled throughout the day. If you opt for items that are high in carbs and low in protein, it can cause a spike in your blood sugar.
That spike can then reduce your energy levels.
Along with choosing healthy meals, don’t have many sweet snacks during the day and stay hydrated.
Many people are surprised to realize how much what they eat plays a role in their energy levels.
Be Aware of What Your Peak Productivity Times Are
In some cases, if you can’t altogether avoid your energy crash, you might at least want to find ways to work around it. For example, if you tend to be most alert in the morning, do your tasks requiring the most concentration during those early hours.
That way, if you do start to feel your energy waning, you might be able to do things requiring less concentration and focus.
For some people, learning to work with the rhythms of their body is more effective than trying to work against them.
Another way to work around your energy slump is to do collaborative work in the afternoon. The reason for this is that when you’re working with other people, it can help you stay more engaged instead of trying to do work on your own when you’re already feeling tired.
Go Outside
Sunlight and fresh air are good pick-me-ups when your energy is on the decline. You don’t have to go far. Just step outside for a few minutes and walk around your house or office building. If you’re driving, you might want to stop your car on the side of the road and take stretch breaks every hour or so.
If you move for just five minutes, it can improve your mood and help you feel better. It doesn’t have to be much to help you see benefits.
Use Essential Oils
Stimulating your senses can help you when you feel tired. Essential oils are a simple way to get a sense boost. You can smell an invigorating oil like peppermint oil and see if it makes you feel any better. You can also put just one drop under your nose, as long as you keep it away from your eyes.
Have a Cup of Green Tea
You might not want to have too much caffeine in the afternoon because it can keep you up at night, but if you drink green tea, it gives you a bit of caffeine and some other health benefits as well. For example, green tea has something called phytochemicals. These are energy boosters that don’t contribute to insomnia.
Rest Your Eyes
Eyestrain can be a factor that leads you to feel tired in general. Try to keep your computer screen at least an arm’s length from your eyes. Every 20 minutes, shift your eyes and look at something at least 20 feet away to avoid too much eye strain.
Turn On Music
One very simple and effective way to feel more alert and promote better memory and attention is to turn on music. Choose uplifting and energetic music. If you want to concentrate at the same time, go for music without lyrics.
Finally, if all else fails, try to set aside time in your schedule for a quick power nap if at all possible. Not everyone can do this either because of work or because naps make them feel more tired, but if you’re someone who can truly nap for just 20 minutes and you feel better then rather than feeling guilty about it, go for it. It can help you stay productive the rest of the day.
