Does it seem like you’re ready for a nap each day around 2 or 3 o’clock? You feel tired, but it turns out that there are other factors at play. To combat this feeling ahead of time, make sure that you get plenty of sleep each night, and that you eat good quality meals during the day – and no, a cup of coffee or something from the vending machine doesn’t count as a meal!
If it’s too late to prepare and an afternoon nap is already calling your name, here are a few things that you can do to stay awake and increase your productivity through the lull:
Have a snack and a drink
Again, we don’t mean a candy bar and a soda from the vending machine! Instead of a sugar high (and subsequent sugar crash), try eating a food that is high in protein, fiber, or complex carbohydrates, like peanut butter and crackers, vegetables with hummus, or an apple and some string cheese. These snacks will give you a steady boost to your blood sugar and can help keep you alert for several hours.
You may also benefit from some water or a little caffeine. If you’re worried about a soda keeping you up at night, try a beverage with lower caffeine levels, like a cup of tea.
Get some sunshine
If you’ve been stuck in an office all day, a quick ‘reset’ out in the sun can help wake your brain. Take a short walk to your car, around the building, or just sit on a bench for a few minutes to recharge. The change of scenery can help you break out of a rut and feel less tired, plus the sunshine will allow you to absorb some Vitamin D in through your skin!
Do some exercises
A light workout is another great way to recharge when you start feeling sluggish in the afternoon. If you don’t have the time to hit the gym, you can still get in some movement. Take that walk that we mentioned earlier, or just do a few quick exercises or a stretching routine at your desk. Getting in some movement can boost your productivity and improve your mood, making you ready to take on the rest of your day!
Switch activities
As we mentioned earlier, sometimes all you need to get rid of that tired feeling is a change of scenery, or a change of pace. It may not always be possible, but try doing something new when you feel an afternoon nap beckoning. For example, instead of responding to emails, go chat with a coworker (in fact, frequent breaks from computer screens are recommended in order to reduce the risk of eye strain).
Each of these four tips is a tried and true way to get an afternoon pick-me-up during the regular 2 or 3 o’clock slump, so give each a try and find out which of the four works best for you! And if you need a break from the grind and want to check on your home or auto insurance policy, remember that you can always call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655.
