Best Ways to Stay Energized Throughout the Day

Sometimes, you might need a slight energy boost to work to the best of your ability. Many people use coffee to wake them up and carry them through the day, but those who want to avoid or wean themselves off caffeine still have options.

Try out these methods that will wake you up in the middle of the day the next time you start to slip into a slump. They’ll be sure to energize you and return your focus to the tasks at hand safely and effectively.

1. Exercise First Thing

Try to exercise as soon as you get up in the morning. Working out will wake you up immediately rather than lure you back into bed. Doing this first thing can help you get a productive start to your day, and you won’t have to fit in your routine later when you get busy. Plus, you get the satisfaction of crossing something off your to-do list first thing.

You can also exercise little by little while working. Some equipment can slide under your desk and keep your feet busy so you never have to sit completely still. Having something like this to do can keep you focused and active if you're prone to fidgeting to keep yourself awake.

2. Get Enough Water

Coffee isn't the only drink that can wake you up. Staying hydrated can make you feel more awake, as water is vital to many body processes. The "eight glasses of water a day" saying is outdated — you might require much more than that to be adequately hydrated and alert.

There's a specific formula to knowing how much water you should drink in a day, and much of it relies on your weight. Your needs will vary based on your size and activity level. Staying hydrated ensures your body is alert and has the energy to function properly.

3. Pack a Healthy Lunch

Working outside of the home may leave you tempted to find a restaurant or a snack from the vending machine to eat for lunch. Eating healthy doesn't have to be complicated or break the bank. Packing something from home means you'll have a nutritious, easy-to-make lunch that will keep you energized throughout the day. Be sure to include ingredients like fresh, leafy greens, protein-rich meat and dairy products to ease you past the midday slump.

4. Meditate

You might think meditation would make you fall asleep, but it can energize you when performed correctly. Meditation hosts several benefits, ranging from mental to emotional to physical. It can help you deal with severe mental illness symptoms and even physical ailments. Take time during the day to reflect on what might be causing you stress or anxiety. Then, think about things that will boost your mood, like past achievements and successes. Meditation can improve your life and help you feel calmer, more energized and ready to take on the world around you. Just be sure to do it consistently.

5. Take a Walk

Have you ever felt like you needed to step out of your office to get some fresh air? Nature can boost your mental health and energize you. Stepping outdoors can help you wake up from your midafternoon slump. Walking outside can help you feel calmer and more focused, which is perfect for combatting a lack of motivation. Go out and spend time in the sun to recharge your batteries when you feel the fluorescent overhead lights starting to affect you.

Don't Neglect Your Body

You may need to look into other causes if you're constantly tired. These suggestions are a great way to boost your energy and carry you through the day without the help of caffeine, but they won't work in every situation.

If none of these suggestions help wake you up, the answer may be to take better care of your sleep health. Make sure your bedroom is cool and dark so you can get the most restful sleep possible. A good night of shuteye, when combined with these techniques, can help you stay awake and alert throughout the day.