When 2 p.m. hits, do you find your mind wandering and your productivity dropping? Does everything start to feel a bit foggy? If you’re feeling both mentally and physically drained, don’t worry—there are some easy steps you can take to stay sharp throughout the day.
Just like exercise boosts your body, these seven simple tricks can help keep your mind energized:
You’ve probably heard a lot about meditation and how it seems like everyone’s doing it. And with good reason—research shows that meditation can increase gray matter in the brain, improve your health, and give you a quick energy boost. There are loads of guided meditations specifically designed to enhance energy, focus, and concentration. Start small with just five minutes a day, and gradually work up to 20 minutes. This can give you the awareness and energy you need to finish the day strong.
Sleep is crucial. Poor sleep habits make you tired and irritable, and they can also increase your risk for heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Good sleep, on the other hand, offers countless benefits like more energy, fewer injuries, better health, improved mood, and even better sex. Make sleep a priority and try to stick to the same sleep schedule every day, even on weekends.
Your diet matters too. Eating foods rich in lean protein, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and whole foods can keep your energy levels steady. Great brain foods include leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, fish, blueberries, red grapes, eggs, avocados, and whole grains. Try to avoid sugar, processed foods, and fast food—they sap your energy and brainpower. If you can’t get enough brain-boosting foods, consider a supplement like Alpha Brain, which is designed to enhance memory, focus, and clarity.
Taking cold showers might not sound fun, but they can wake up your mind. Cold showers can also boost circulation, aid weight loss, relieve stress, and maybe even act as a mild antidepressant. Try it for a week to see the refreshing benefits yourself.
Fresh air is fantastic for both body and mind. Spending time in nature can restore your energy, improve concentration, enhance memory, and reduce stress. Enjoy a bike ride, sip your coffee outside, have a walking meeting, or just take a longer route to your car. Prioritize time in nature every day to reconnect with the world and sharpen your focus.
Stay hydrated because dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If you’re feeling off during the day, grab some water. Aim to drink 10 to 15 cups per day.
Combining coffee with a nap can work wonders. Coffee can wake you up and a nap can refresh you, so why not do both? Drink a cup of coffee and then take a 20-minute nap. This combo can be much more effective than either on its own.
The mid-afternoon slump can be challenging, but with the right fuel and habits, you can maintain energy and focus all day long. Breathe deeply, maybe try a cold shower, and you’ll be well on your way to all-day focus and energy.