Life
7 Ways to Naturally Up Your Energy Without Caffeine
When you’re feeling low on energy, there’s nothing more promising than a steamy cup of coffee. A caffeine boost can bring you from a bleary-eyed zombie to a productive and motivated extrovert in just the blink of an eye. But despite its superhero-like abilities, sometimes caffeine just isn’t an option.
Whether you woke up late and don’t have time to grab your favorite latte, or it’s the mid-afternoon and it’s too late to have caffeine, there’s nothing worse than spending the rest of your day slumped over your desk trying to keep your eyes open. Although it may not seem fathomable, there are other ways that can help you naturally boost your energy when you can’t have caffeine. We’ve gathered a list of seven easy tips to help you get back on your feet when feeling lethargic.
Take a Walk
If you’re feeling a bit under the weather, head outside and take a short 20-minute walk. Studies have shown that quick, low-intensity workouts help people increase their energy and decrease their fatigue. Why step outside instead of just pacing around the office? Research has also shown that being outside in nature can be revitalizing to people’s energy levels as well.
Drink Some Water
Even the mildest dehydration can cause fatigue and moodiness, so be sure to drink up to feel your best. Consume lots of water throughout the day, whether it be juice, tea, or just plain old tap water to increase your focus and keep your spirits up.
Have a Healthy Snack
Instead of reaching for a sugary afternoon boost, try eating something like a high-fiber fruit or whole grain snack. Studies have shown that those who fill up on complex carbohydrates feel more alert throughout the day than those who eat lower fiber and higher fat meals.
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Chew on Gum
Don’t feel hungry? Instead of a snack, try popping a piece of gum instead. Studies have shown that people who chewed gum for 15 minutes increased their focus for longer than those who didn’t have the chewy treat.
Turn On a Light
If you’re feeling sleepy or sluggish, you may want to brighten up your room. Light reacts with your brain to make you feel more stimulated and aware. If possible, try to stick to blue lights, which have the greatest effect on your brain chemistry.
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Power Nap
Nap time isn’t just for kids anymore. Taking a 20-minute nap in the afternoon can help alleviate fatigue, increase alertness, and improve mood. As long as you don’t sleep too early in the day or for more than 30 minutes, you should be good to go and feeling revitalized in no time.
Image: Bustle Stock Photo
Laugh Out Loud
Watching some stand-up comedy or joking with friends may actually be more beneficial than you thought. Humor has been proven to increase one’s energy, maintain alertness, and improve attentiveness. Now you have no reason to feel guilty about watching that stupid cat video on YouTube.
