Each of us has a certain time of the day that is a little less productive. For some, getting motivated in the morning can be tough; for others, the last hours of the day seem to drag by. All you need is a little boost of energy to get yourself on track, but finding that at work can be difficult.
There are a few things you can do to raise your energy and get back to being a productive member of the team, no matter what time of day seems to be your downtime. What is even better is that it is possible to get that boost without caffeine, energy pills, or other unhealthy alternatives. Try a few of these suggestions the next time you find yourself in a slump at work.
1. Get some fresh air – Plants start to wilt without sunlight and oxygen and people do, too. Try and find a way to escape outside for a few minutes to enjoy a few minutes of fresh air and sunshine, and then return to the tasks at hand feeling refreshed and invigorated.
2. Have a healthy snack – Many find that when their blood sugar level drops, their energy level goes right along with it. Keep a few healthy snacks at your desk for occasions when you need a boost to get you through. Fruit bars, granola bars, crackers, or fresh, raw fruits and vegetables are great options that are easy to munch, without the need for utensils or creating a huge mess.
3. Take a walk – Indoors or out, a brisk stroll can do wonders for your energy level. Walk around the office, the building, or the block for a few minutes and get some much-needed exercise that will re-energise you and help you through the rest of your day.
4. Give yourself a massage – Rubbing your head, neck, and shoulders can benefit you two-fold. Not only will it get your blood flowing and boost your energy level, but it can also help your muscles to relax and combat some of the stress of the day.
5. Smell something good – Certain scents can work to improve your overall mood and give your energy level a little push in the right direction. Keep a candle, bottle of essential oil, or pot-pourri at your desk, and breathe deeply. Some scents to try include grapefruit, orange, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus. Be certain, however, that no one in the surrounding area is sensitive or allergic to scents before unleashing an aroma into the whole office!
6. Have a good laugh – Go in search of something to lift your spirits. Subscribe to a joke of the day email newsletter and read it when you are feeling low. Talk to a co-worker who always has a story that will have you laughing hysterically. It has always been said that laughter is the best medicine and it can work to boost your energy, as well.
7. Turn up the air conditioning – If you can control the climate in your office area, turn turning down the heat or turning up the air a couple of degrees during your slow time. When you are feeling warm, you are more likely to get overly relaxed and sleepy. Even sipping a cool drink can help, in many cases.
8. Change your position – Sitting in the same place and doing the same thing all day long can cause anyone to feel a bit sluggish and tired. If permissible, try standing for a while, sit on the floor, or even bring in a balance ball to use as an alternative to your chair. Get as creative as your office will permit.
9. Squeeze in some desk exercises – While doing a quick workout when you are tired sounds like a lot of work, it can help you to get back the energy you need to make it through the day. A few squats, jumping jacks, simple stretches, and even some shoulder and neck rolls can do wonders for your body and energy level.
10. Sneak in a nap – If all else fails, take a short catnap - if you can pull it off. Close the office door and set a timer or get a trusted co-worker to wake you in a few minutes. Even a brief snooze can feel like a full night’s sleep, some days. If you do get caught and reprimanded, ask your boss if they would rather see you take a 10-minute nap and double your productivity or spend the next few hours dragging through and doing a mediocre job at your tasks. Good luck!
Recommended Reading
For more information and advice on healthy energy boosts, take a look at the following books:
The 7 Day Energy Surge
The 150 Most Effective Ways to Boost Your Energy
Energy Medicine for Women: Aligning Your Body’s Energies to Boost Your Health and Vitality
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