You may be surprised to learn that the afternoon slump is real. Studies have shown that over 50% of people experience an afternoon slump. In fact, research by Office Freedom pinpointed the time of the afternoon slump as around 14.15 – shortly after lunch break.
The good news is that it’s possible to beat the afternoon slump. You simply need to make a few adjustments to your lifestyle.
1. Start Having Breakfast
You already know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yet, just over half of Brits skip breakfast. It’s understandable, modern life is fast-paced. There’s no time for anything else.
However, if you skip breakfast, you are significantly more likely to experience an afternoon slump.
It doesn’t matter if you choose a smoothie and a delicious Arabica coffee, or opt for cereal and a nice cup of Earl Grey. The key is to choose food and drink with a little sugar and lots of protein.
Caffeinated drinks, like coffee and tea, can help your body get an extra boost for the day.
2. Take An Active Lunch
Most people see lunchtime as a chance to relax, put their feet up and enjoy some quiet time. It may be good for stress levels, but it will encourage a slump. Why? Because your body will relax, you’re likely to feel stiff, and then you’ll feel tired. That will cause a slump shortly after you return to work.
Put simply, you won’t feel like working physically or mentally.
Certainly, pause to eat your lunch, but then do something active, even if it’s just a walk around the block.
3. Reevaluate Your Sleep
Sleep is essential to your well-being. It’s recommended you get between 7-9 hours every night. If possible, create a schedule that allows you to do this. If that’s not possible (and for many it isn’t), consider keeping a track of your sleep debt.
That’s effectively how many hours of sleep you’re missing. Try to keep this below 5 and you’ll find you feel more energised.
4. Hydrate
Hydration is essential as your body is roughly 60% water. What you may not realise is that water is also helpful to your energy levels. It enhances your digestive system, improves the delivery of oxygen around the body (which boosts energy levels), and helps you maintain your temperature.
A simple way to stay hydrated is to keep a bottle of water with you at all times and sip regularly.
5. Switch Roles
If possible, you can arrange to work as part of a team in the afternoon. It will help you stay alert. However, this probably isn’t an option all the time.
Instead, consider switching activities. In other words, if you’re focused on something logical, try switching to something creative. It uses the other side of your brain and can help you feel more alert and potentially more productive.
Research even suggests that using both sides of your brain in this way can help with problem-solving and make you a more rounded individual.
Summing Up
The afternoon slump is real, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with it. Try the simple steps above and see how much difference it makes.
You’ll feel like a whole new person.
This post was originally published on Canary.