Getting Through that All-Nighter

By Donna Kostiew

There are so many reasons that may cause you to stay up later than usual at night. Perhaps you are a college student and are studying into the wee hours of the morning to prepare for the next day’s test. Or maybe you are putting the final touches on a speech that needs to be presented in the morning, in front of your boss, and his or her boss as well. It’s during times like these in which we often feel guilty just for taking a bathroom break, or breathing for that matter. But although you may feel more prepared with pulling an all-nighter, it’s not the best for your health, and it certainly can be difficult to manage. So consider changing things up a bit and get the most from your hard work.

Staying Healthy and Equipped for an All-Nighter

Here are some tips on how to incorporate some new habits that will help you better manage those nights when you have to stay up late.

• Try some healthy snacks instead – Skip the bags of chips and cookies because as we all know, it is best to snack on healthy foods, especially if we need some fuel for our brain. Choose peanut butter/banana wraps, oatmeal, or veggies.
• Burn some calories while working – A sedentary lifestyle is never good. Incorporating movement during your day is a great way to break that habit, and can still be accomplished when you are up late studying or working. Standing, walking, or getting on a treadmill is a guaranteed way to not only stay awake but to also keep your blood pumping and your focus on point.
• Keep a water bottle next to you – Water has been shown to help your brain work faster and function at an optimal level. So not only are you avoiding the extra sugar from some of those other drinks, you are also improving your concentration and attention to detail.
• Don’t forget to take a break – Catching yourself reading the same sentence over and over and over again? Perhaps it will do you some good to stop and take a break. Take a walk, get some fresh air, or wash your face, anything that will give you some time off without thinking.
• Keep the lights on – Studying or working in bright light is best, as poor lighting can lead to irritability and stress. It can also cause your eyes to become tired, and soon enough, you may find yourself nodding off. So keep the lights turned on and the room as bright as possible.

Finishing homework, studying for class, or completing that last-minute project can be exhausting, especially if the workload carries over into your time for sleep. But with some proper brain-food and some simple tricks, you will be sure to make it through the night unscathed. Just remember to catch up on your rest later!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, seeyour local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Franklin, Tenn.