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5 Ways To Overcome That Afternoon Slump

Hey everyone!

Welcome back to Stridi Towers. Today we’re going to discuss the best ways to overcome that afternoon slump.

We all know that feeling. Lunch was an hour ago. 

We’re laying back in our chair, waiting for ideas to come to us. We haven’t touched that spreadsheet in front of us for the last ten minutes. 


Our mind feels fuzzy. Our eyelids are heavy. We’re craving caffeine.

Here’s five great ways to get the ideas flowing again:

       1. Avoid caffeine. Drink water.

Hydration is one of the best ways to revive a tired mind. 


 

Whilst it may be tempting to turn to trusty tea or coffee, caffeine is a short-term fix which can cause other problems, such as interrupted sleep.

Tea and coffee are also diuretics, meaning they actually increase dehydration. So, if your body is lacking in water, caffeine can be a counterproductive move.

However, this doesn’t mean that you have to avoid hot drinks altogether.

Organic herbal teas, hot water with a squeeze of lemon or lime, and even green tea can be invigorating. The latter does contain a bit of caffeine, but not as much as ordinary tea or coffee, and so it can be a healthier option. 

2. Move your body. Do some exercise. 

Don’t worry, I’m not suggesting that you run a marathon during your break. But being sat at your desk, in front of a screen for hours, can lead to lethargy, poor energy levels and stiff muscles. 


 

Even a bit of stretching for a few minutes can help to loosen your stiff muscles and get the blood flowing again, which will also help to refresh your mind.

A ten minute walk around the block, some simple stretches on the floor, even some deep breathing exercises can give you a boost of energy.

3. Have a smaller, lighter lunch.

We all know that feeling after a heavy lunch. All we want to do is have a nap!

Although, as much as it can be tempting to indulge that rumbling tummy - having a heavy lunch can lead to lethargy later in the day.

Bring a packed lunch, maybe a salad or some rice cakes and some fruit. Not only will you give yourself a bit of extra time during your lunch break, for a quick stroll or to read the paper, but you’ll also be likely to have better energy throughout the afternoon.


 

The only word of warning for this one, is it’s a great idea to bring some healthy snacks in case you get a bit peckish later. The downside to a lighter lunch is it doesn’t always keep you full up all afternoon.

4. Listen to music.

Now, I’m not suggesting that you set up an office karaoke on a Tuesday afternoon (but if that is your Tuesday afternoon thing in the office, then fair dos!). 


 

But, if you’re allowed to use headphones in the office, then plugging yourself into your favourite tunes can give you a huge mood lift – which in turn can revitalise your energy levels.

5. Meditate.

We often advise meditation in our blog posts, simply because it’s an awesome way to revitalise your mind and body, and it has many other health benefits. 


 

The best thing about meditation is you can do it from anywhere. Even on the bus. If you’re a beginner, there are some handy guides online to get you started. 

But much of meditation is focusing on your breathing and being aware of the world around you. 

Simple, but effective.

That’s it for today! We hope these tips will be useful for your working day and, as always, let us know if you’ve got any strategies that someone may find useful.

Have a great week.

Matt 

 

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