5 Tips to Beat the Afternoon Slump

Lunch is over, and you've already had enough caffeine for the day, and now your eyelids are getting heavy. Before you grab that Diet Coke or indulge in a sugary treat from the vending machine, remember there are much healthier ways to beat the afternoon slump. Most of us can't pause for a nap, so try these 5 easy tips to stay motivated and get through the 3 p.m. slump. I get this way everyday and when i was working i was dragging in the afternoons. these are some pretty good tips. ENJOY! 

Don't OD on caffeine

How often do you get the triple venti and finish it off before even getting to the office? Instead of guzzling the entire thing at once, try to enjoy smaller servings of caffeine throughout the day. When you quickly drink a large coffee, the caffeine peaks in your bloodstream much sooner than if you spread it out over time.

Take a lunchtime walk

Just as sunshine helps you wake up in the morning, exposure to some natural light later in the day can help blunt an energy dip. Step outside for a short walk around noon, before you start feeling sluggish—the combination of sunlight and heart-pumping exercise can't be beat.Try to fit in a 10-minute walk during your lunch break, or even take a walking meeting. If you can't get outdoors, sitting next to a window and looking out is the next best thing.

Avoid fat, sugar, and grease

All of your favorite things, you say? Well, no longer. Instead, make sure each meal contains a balance of whole grains, monounsaturated fats, and fruits and vegetables. At snacktime, instead of cookies or chips, opt for a banana with a tablespoon of peanut butter for a dose of the energy-boosting minerals potassium and magnesium.

Drink more water

Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to keep energized and focused. Additionally, thirst is sometimes mistake for hunger as well, so it's very beneficial to drink your 8 glasses. Aim to refill your glass every hour or two.

Get some green in your office

Beating the afternoon slump can be as easy as plopping a plant in the office. Research from Texas A&M discovered that volunteers who kept a vase of vibrant flowers on their desks, along with green plants elsewhere in the office, generated more creative ideas than those in a vegetation-free setting.