10 Quick Ways to Stay Energized at Work
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us start out with energy in the morning, but we may lose power as the day rolls ahead. To cut through that afternoon slump to energize the whole day, make some changes.
Always eat breakfast – Make an egg and muffin sandwich at home with a whole wheat English muffin, egg or egg white and lean ham or low fat cheese. You will have enough energy to last through lunch and not be starved.
Brown bag lunch – Avoid all of the burgers, fries and pizza. Instead, bring avocadoes, tuna salad and leafy greens, plus fresh berries and Greek yogurt, and green or black tea. You will save money and you will still be awake for the afternoon run.
Stay hydrated, snack light - Make afternoon snacks apples, pears, nuts, or raisins with green tea or juice (or water).
Exercise at your desk – Try a desk squat. Stand in front of your chair, bend the knees to sit down, but stand back up instead. Do a desk push-up. Place hands on the desk and step back to create an angle. Then bend the elbows to lower your body to the desk.
Get outside – Eat your lunch outside, or slip out for an afternoon break. Pick up some Vitamin D and enjoy the fresh air. If you have time, go for a walk.
Up your oxygen – Use a breathing exercise to relax and work smarter. Sit up straight and breathe out as much air as possible. Then inhale slowly. Hold for five seconds and slowly exhale.
Try jazz or strings – Ease the day’s tension with your choice of some soft jazz or light symphony strings or flutes.
Change up the day – Try a walking meeting outside or an afternoon roundtable discussion period. When your eyes tire with computer work, take a 10-minute break to walk, stretch, or talk with a friend.
Consider a nap – Short power naps work for some people, helping them to ease the brain and refuel the body.
Overall prep – To be at your best at the office make sure you are getting enough daily exercise, restful sleep and healthy foods. Let go of tension or stress with breathing exercises or simple meditations. If you are still lagging at work, rethink your work schedule, or take an afternoon off.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
