Tips for a High-Energy Afternoon

Health, Home & Family
on December 29, 2002

Feeling sluggish? Do you run out of energy by midafternoon? In todays fast-paced and hectic world of instant everything, feeling tired and rushed is a common complaint. Busy schedules leave many drained emotionally and physically once the afternoon hits, but you can take action to get energized.

Watch your diet. Carbohydrates are used mostly for energy by your body. Experts agree most of your daily calories should be from foods containing fiber and starches such as whole grains, vegetables, and beans. Eating small meals throughout the day energizes weary muscles. Rather than snacking on high-sugar candy bars and greasy foods, pack carrots, celery, raisins, nuts, fruits, and yogurt for quick pick-me-ups.

Napping isnt just for kids. One-half of the American work force reports that sleepiness on the job interferes with work productivity, a National Sleep Foundation poll revealed. If youre not getting at least eight hours of sleep each night, youre more likely to be fatigued the following day. Taking a short afternoon snooze will increase your mental alertness and revitalize energy, studies show. Work breaks are perfect times to close your eyes for a few minutes of relaxation.

Aromatherapy. If the scent of homemade bread or a bouquet of freshly cut roses conjures up fond memories and soothes your mind, then you understand the power of aromatherapy. Smell is a potent mood enhancer. Aromatherapy concoctions are a combination of oils from leaves, bark, flowers, and seeds distilled into aromatic healing scents. Aromatherapy proponents believe the oil mixtures can calm nerves, curb appetite, induce sleep, and revitalize energy. They say basil improves concentration and reduces stress; flowers from the cananga tree have a calming effect; rosemary combats fatigue and stimulates the senses; and peppermint energizes the mind and body.

Exercise. Get moving to rev up energy levels. The American Heart Association encourages exercise as a preventive measure for overall health, along with boosting energy levels. Take a quick walk. Use the buddy system and walk with a friend or co-worker to stay motivated.

Take ginseng. Ginseng has been used for centuries in Asia as a medicinal herb to increase energy, stamina, and stimulate alertness. Ginseng may improve your overall sense of well being, according to the Mayo Clinic. But avoid combining ginseng with abundant amounts of caffeine and other stimulants because it increases the risk of over-stimulation. Talk to your doctor before taking ginseng; people with uncontrolled high blood pressure and other ailments should not use ginseng.

Identifying energy busters, reducing stress, and having a positive attitude all play a role in combating afternoon fatigue. Taking a proactive stance is the key to healthy change.