In todays world we all feel the pressure to work harder, study harder, multitask quicker, and get more things done. We live in a hyper-speed world that shows no signs of slowing down…to keep up people are drinking more coffee, downing energy drinks, and even doing drugs like cocaine and meth. Here are some ideas that will help you get through your day without all of the caffeine and adverse side effects:
- Get a good night sleep.
While this is obvious, most people don’t sleep a restful, full night of sleep, enough. This is why you feel the need for caffeine. If you don’t sleep well then you need something to wake you up in the morning. - Eat breakfast.
There have been thousands of studies on the importance of breakfast. This is how your body gets it’s initial energy for the entire day. If you cut that out your metabolism does not kick start and you are bound to feel tired and lethargic later in the day. So instead of drinking coffee for breakfast have a good meal that will keep you satisfied through the morning hours until lunch. One of the best breakfasts to get your metabolism revved up and keep you satisfied is steelcut oatmeal with fresh berries on top. - Eat lunch and even snacks if need be…let me explain
Part of the reason you feel you need caffeine is because your busy at work or school and know you still have tons to do. Instead of heading for the coffee machine or cracking open an energy drink have a small healthy snack. When a person’s tired it’s because their blood sugar levels have dropped super low. This means you need brain food, not tons of sugar, which will only cause your blood sugar to shoot up for a short period only to crash even harder…making you even more tired. This doesn’t mean grab a doughnut…try nuts like almonds or a piece of fruit. - Take a short nap to recharge.
If you have the time in your day, try taking a power nap for about 20-30mins to recharge. Any longer and you will probably feel lethargic afterward. A power nap gives your mind a much needed break so try it! - Meditate in the morning or anytime for that matter.
Meditating for 10-20mins in the morning before work or in the middle of the day will refresh your mind and give you a sense of relaxation. There are several easy ways to meditate that work into the busiest of lives. - Take a short walk midday or whenever you need a pick me up.
Exercise releases endorphins, which give you energy. The quickest way to gain some energy is to take a brisk walk. This could mean parking your car farther away than usual and walking briskly to and from your car on your lunch break. Or taking the five flights of stairs up to your classroom rather than taking the elevator. Not only are you burning calories and keeping your metabolism fired up, but you are gaining much needed energy. - Take a breather at your desk.
If you’re stuck at your desk drop what you are doing and take a minute to look outside. Take a few deep slow breaths and relax. Try to empty your mind and just focus on the beauty of nature out you window. There is overwhelming evidence that just being in or seeing nature is calming and invigorating.So the next time you start making a b-line for the nearest Starbucks think about all the other wonderful options you have.
