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The clock strikes 2 p.m. and the after lunch sluggish feeling sets in; if you are working from a home office like me your fluffy comforter beckons you from the other room. Not an opportune time as your online calendar prompts you for a client call. Fear not, we are not alone; a study conducted by Medical News Today suggests that 40% of workers experience afternoon fatigue.
When it comes to a nap or tending to the excel report the choice is an obvious one, but I’ve tried and been successful with five slump busters to stave off afternoon fatigue to share with my fellow ‘yawners’.
- Have an afternoon snack. A handful of almonds or an apple with peanut butter is low in sugar and high in protein providing the body with sustaining energy vs. high in sugar products like candy bars that burn off fast.
- Stay hydrated. Less than 32 ounces of water a day can keep a body feeling consistently sluggish. Keep a BPA-free water bottle at your desk for quick refills and as a friendly reminder.
- Play a game. A time restricted distraction like online Tetris or watching a 15 minute video can give your mind a mini-vacation and leave you feeling focused and alert when returning to work tasks. Stick to the time restriction as to not get absorbed, if this doesn’t suit you – take a 15 minute walk around the block for some fresh air.
- Stay organized. Having a place for everything eliminates the need for expending extra mental energy trying to track down say that container of paper clips.
- Have a jam session. Listening to a favorite upbeat song can instantly change your mood. So plug in that iPod. If you work in an office with other people, see if those around you want to schedule regular rock out sessions after lunch.
Do you have any other suggestions for beating the afternoon slouch?
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