When 2 p.m. hits, do you find your mind drifting off and your productivity taking a nosedive? Are you struggling to stay focused and energetic? There are some easy steps you can take to sharpen your mental and physical energy throughout the day.
Just like exercise revives the body, the following 7 tips will help boost your brain power and help you combat that afternoon slump:
1. **Meditation**: You’ve probably heard a lot about meditation, and for good reason. Research shows that meditation can boost gray matter in your brain, improve health and wellness, and give you an instant energy lift. There are guided meditations specifically designed to increase energy, focus, and concentration. Start with just five minutes a day and work your way up to 20 minutes to achieve better awareness and energy throughout the day.
2. **Sleep**: Poor sleep doesn’t just make you tired and irritable; it increases your risk for heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. On the flip side, quality sleep leads to more energy, fewer injuries, better health, improved sex, and enhanced memory and mood. Make sleep a priority and try to keep the same sleep schedule throughout the week and weekends.
3. **Balanced Diet**: A diet rich in lean proteins, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and whole foods will help maintain a steady energy supply. Brain-boosting foods include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, blueberries, red grapes, eggs, avocados, and whole grains. Avoid sugar, processed foods, and fast food, which can drain your energy and brainpower. If you struggle to eat these foods daily, consider trying a brain-boosting supplement like Alpha Brain to improve memory, focus, and clarity.
4. **Cold Showers**: Taking a cold shower for at least two minutes, ideally up to eight, can rejuvenate your mind. Cold showers can boost circulation, aid in weight loss, relieve stress, and even act as an antidepressant. Give it a try for a week and notice the refreshing results.
5. **Fresh Air**: Spending time outside can recharge your body and mind. Nature can enhance energy, improve concentration, boost short-term memory, and relieve stress. Activities like biking, enjoying a cup of coffee outside, having walking meetings, or simply taking a longer route to your car can make a big difference. Make it a goal to spend time in nature every day.
6. **Hydration**: One major cause of fatigue, especially at work, is dehydration. Not drinking enough water can lead to headaches, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If you’re feeling sluggish, grab a glass of water. It’s recommended to drink about 10 to 15 cups a day.
7. **Coffee and Napping**: Both coffee and naps have their benefits, but combining them can be a game-changer. Drinking coffee just before a quick 20-minute nap can help you wake up feeling more refreshed and energized, as the caffeine kicks in just as you wake up.
Whether it’s mid-afternoon or first thing in the morning, keeping your mind and body energized can be challenging. By fueling your body well, making time for yourself, and maybe even trying a cold shower, you’ll find yourself on the path to maintaining all-day energy and focus.