How to beat the afternoon slump

Do you find yourself yawning, stretching and craving for a nap around mid noon everyday? According to a recent study published in The Journal of Neuroscience, the brain's reward system dips at around 2 pm, which results in what is known as the afternoon slump. Mornings, according to the study, are when the brain is the most active as its reward-processing system is at the highest. However, there are some ways which can help you get out of this grumpy rut and improve
productivity.

Go for a walk: Walking is a great way to get yourself out of a rut. Take a short walk outdoors, take a walk in the sun. This will reduce the amount of melatonin, the sleep hormone that your body produces. And vitamin D gives a boost to your mood. A walk will also get the blood pumping and make you feel energised. You could also stretch. This is also a great way to get blood pumping.

Drink water: Lack of hydration is another reason why your body could be feeling a slump. Drinking water can quickly make you feel refreshed. You could even sip on some green tea and take benefit of all the antioxidants or opt for a fruit juice that is low on sugar.

Keep healthy snacks handy: Sometimes, when you are feeling drowsy, a good dose of energy is what you need than a nap or caffeine. And as tempted you might be to reach for some cake, avoid it. Sugar will only leave you feeling drained eventually. Raw veggies and fruits like carrots and apples, cheese cubes, dark chocolate, dry fruits and nuts are great choices for office snacks.

Eat a smart lunch: Avoid lunch with simple carbs; instead focus on a balanced meal with complex carbohydrates and lean protein. This will slowly release energy into your bloodstream, making sure you don't feel low during the later half of the day.

Clear your desk: You probably are least productive when you feel the afternoon slump. This is the best time to do other tasks you have been meaning to do. Like, clear your desk of clutter and organise it. Reply to all pending emails and read online stories that you might have been saving for later in the day. A change in pace will help you move on to completing other important tasks at hand.

Make a phone call: Feel like putting your head down for a catnap? Pick up your phone and make that phone call you have been putting off. It could be a call to your spouse or just to your friend or a sibling to say 'hi'. A quick chat will put you in a great mood and energy for you to get on with the rest of the day.

Listen to music: Sometimes, good music is all you need to pump up your energy. Listen to a few upbeat tunes—use your headphones of course and say bye to sleepiness.