GirlsGuideTo | 5 Tips to Fight Mid-Day Fatigue

After a great weekend I am always left suffering from a serious case of the sleepies come Monday afternoon. Since I really can't take a nap at my desk, I've discovered other ways to fight the dreaded mid-day slump. Here are 5 tips to keep you productive and energetic all afternoon long.

Drink More Water

Instead of reaching for yet another cup of coffee, do your body a favor and drink some more water. In addition to the bounty of other amazing benefits of drinking more water, it keeps you energized and fights fatigue. If you need a little flavor, try fruit-infused water.

Take Walking Breaks

Exercise not only burns calories and release endorphins, but it will keep up energy levels, as well. A quick walk outside will fight off the mid-day sleepiness and getting some real sunlight will prevent depression, too.

Stop Eating At Your Desk

We are definitely guilty of this one here at the Girls Guide To office. Recent studies revealed that 60 percent of people reported taking 20 minutes or less each day for lunch, and 25 percent didn’t even leave their desks at all. Staying glued to our computers, hunched over our desks leaves us more and more irritable, tired, and distracted as the day goes on. Taking a real lunch break, and leaving your desk or office, means you’ll likely return more energized, focused, and productive for the rest of the day.

Pick Protein Over Sugar

In addition to being much better for your diet, snacking on high-protein foods instead of sugary snacks will keep your sugar levels balanced, thus preventing that mid-day slump. Ditch the crackers and chips for snacks like almonds, edamame, and greek yogurt.

Take Breaks Every 90 Minutes

Our bodies follow an ultradian rhythm, which governs our energy levels. On average, the human body can fully focus on a task for just 90 minutes before breaking down under fatigue. We usually fight the signs, like difficulty concentrating, with more coffee and energy drinks. So, instead of fighting your body’s natural rhythm, try working with it. Focus intensely on one given task for 90 minutes without interruption, then take a short break. The break can be as simple as stretching for a few moments or getting yourself something to drink, and then get back to work for another 90 minutes. You’ll soon realize how much more productive those shorter bursts of work can really be.

Do you suffer from that 3pm slump? What advice do you have for fighting fatigue?