However, consuming caffeine can cause insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, or upset your stomach. Fortunately, there are natural yet effective ways to stay awake.
1. Brisk walking
A brisk 10-minute walk can increase oxygen to your brain, veins, and muscles. Thus, it can boost your energy.
This surge of energy can last for several hours. If you have a desk job, have your eyes peeled to the computer screen or are doing lots of paperwork, taking periodic breaks to walk about in the office is advised.
When it’s lunchtime, why not walk to a nearby restaurant for a meal or if you’ve packed something from home, have your lunch in a nice spot – a garden area or at the balcony.
2. Eat healthy ‘energy’ foods
Low blood sugar can make you feel tired and make it hard to focus on work. Foods with some sugar content however can quickly increase your energy.
However, it’s best to eat foods that provide a quick boost of energy but which are also good for your health. These foods include:
• Yogurt
• Fresh fruits
• Whole wheat crackers
• Celery sticks
• Nuts
• Low-fat cream cheese
Remember not to eat too much sugary foods as this can raise your blood sugar levels too high.
3. Strike up a conversation
If you are sleepy, start a conversation with a friend or colleague. Talk about anything you are interested in from fashion, food, to business, politics or religion.
This will help keep you awake while giving you some fun and sometimes, information, too.
4. Make use of breathing techniques
Taking a deep breath can help increase blood oxygen levels. This can make your heart beat slower, lower your blood pressure, promote blood flow, and boost energy.
To take a deep breath correctly, your abdomen should rise as you inhale. You can do this exercise any time, anywhere.
To start the exercise, sit straight. Place one hand on your belly. Inhale through your nose until you feel your belly rise. Your chest should not move. Then breath out through your mouth.
5. Get some light
Turn on the lights in the room or increase its brightness. You are more likely to feel sleepy in environments with dim lighting.
That is why you should turn off the lights when you go to bed. Bright lights can help you fight off sleepiness and make you feel more alert.
Daylight can help influence your sleep-wake cycle. You should spend time outside exercising, walking around the park, or sitting at the balcony and taking in some fresh air.
You may stick to coffee in order to combat sleepiness as long as you are aware of its negative effects.
To avoid its unpleasant effects, try these natural methods instead. They are safe and effective.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com and was reviewed by Dr Duyen Le. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.