5 Ways to Get Energized, Without Caffeine
by Jessica Petrucci
Working an 8+ hour day gets tiring, and it can be tempting to turn to caffeine when the afternoon slump sinks in. However, drinking caffeinated beverages in the afternoon isn't necessarily the best choice for combatting the afternoon slump. Caffeine can remain in your system for up to 12 hours and can contribute to insomnia, a huge source of stress and a gut-health hazard. Fortunately, there are many ways to avoid the midday lull without turning to caffeine. Here are a few healthy ideas for getting re-energized at work.
1. Have a Healthy Snack
Having a something to munch on at work can help your brain wake up a bit. Stay away from sugary treats that could cause a crash in blood sugar. Low blood sugar produces mental fogginess and lethargy. Check out our list of snacks to get started.
2. Breathe
Breathing exercises raise blood oxygen levels which can help with circulation and ultimately with mental clarity. Check out these breathing exercises that you can do at your desk the next time you are looking to wake up or chill out.
3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration causes fatigue, so it is important to drink lots of water (we suggest 2-3 liters) throughout the day. Instead of that second or third cup of coffee, mix in decaffeinated beverages like herbal tea.
4. Use Essential Oils or Lotion
Scents can be great for mental stimulation. Certain scents work especially well for increasing energy and mental focus. Try the essential oils listed below for an afternoon pick me up. (Note: if you have sensitive coworkers, you can also have scented lotions or even a flavored tea that has an uplifting scent.)
- Peppermint
- Orange
- Bergemont
- Eucalyptus
5. Get Physical
Taking an exercise break gets the blood flowing to the brain and can increase the blood oxygen levels in your body. Exercise can help increase energy and reduce daytime fatigue. Regular exercise also improves quality of sleep. Even if you can’t fit a workout in at lunchtime, you can still reap the benefits of increased exercise in your daily life. By increasing your quality of sleep, you will feel better rested during the day.
Other Resources
About the Author
|
Jessica Petrucci has a background in biotechnology and is a certified yoga instructor. As a collegiate athlete, fitness has always been an important part of Jessica’s life. She takes a holistic approach to health, encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Coming from a place of personal experience, Jessica has seen how lifestyle and stress can take a toll on gut health and overall wellness. She strives to help others realize that, by living a well-balanced lifestyle, they can be the best and healthiest versions of themselves. |
|
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interested in learning more about Ixcela? Check out Ixcela’s microbiome test, personalized nutrition and fitness plans, and other tools to help you optimize your health.
|