4 Tips to Help You Beat that Afternoon Slump
It might look like you’re doing very little, but sitting behind a desk all day, grinding away at mentally challenging, or even mind numbing, tasks can take its toll on your energy levels. We’ve all experienced the dreaded afternoon slump, whether in the office or out and about. Your body and mind work together to create the best possible version of you but if your body isn’t functioning optimally, it’s incredibly difficult to keep your mind on-track. Want to feel more energised all day long? Here are four simple tips to help you avoid the afternoon slump.
1. ‘Deskercising’!
When you’re stuck at a desk all day, your body can get restless. To increase blood flow, try going for a walk or do some desk squats (they’re not as bad as you think!). Just shift your chair back a bit and place your feet shoulder-width apart, then bend your knees into a sitting position until you feel the chair beneath you and stand back up. Repeat a few times and you should be good to go!
2. Eat strategically
Pairing good carbohydrates with protein can help you sustain energy for longer periods of time, stimulate your brain and help maintain focus. Wholegrain carbs take longer to digest in your body meaning you’ll maintain that bout of energy over a longer period of time. Adding protein along with leafy greens like spinach or kale gives your body vitamin B folate and vitamin K, both of which contribute to ultimate brain functioning and focus. Rather than grabbing a chocolate bar or bag of chips, snack on a handful of berries which are packed with fibre and good sugars to avoid that drop in energy levels.
3. Take a deep breath in…
Partaking in a few simple breathing exercising will increase your oxygen intake, relax you and allow you to work more effectively and with more focus. Take a seat on a chair with a backrest and place your shoulders firmly against the back of the seat. Sit up straight and breathe out as much air as your lungs will allow. Inhale slowly from the diaphragm (near the sternum area) and take in as much air as your can. Hold for five seconds and slowly exhale fully. Repeat 10 times and you should be sorted!
4. Reach for that Red Bull… It’s OK!
Caffeine has the incredible ability to clear your head, improve focus and wake your body up. Red Bull contains 80mg of caffeine (around the same as a cup of coffee) and slows down the compound in your brain, adenosine, that makes you tired. Red Bull also contains a ton of B-group vitamins which fight fatigue and help increase mental alertness – the perfect pick-me-up!
These simple but effective tips and tricks are bound to help get you through the last part of your afternoon – try them out next time you’re having a downer!
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