Ward Off that Afternoon Funk

Many of us have been working from home for quite a while now *oh hey, Covid* and I'm sure many, like myself, often fall into that dreaded afternoon slump - I call it a funk.

My familiar acquaintance, Ms. Funk, tends to roll up to greet me around 2pm; as soon as she shows herself I just feel like closing my laptop and napping - motivation, gone!

Whether you're working from home, studying at home, watching your professor through your laptop, or have your hands full with your children, try these tips if you feel yourself slipping into a useless abyss:

+ Grab a snack away from your workspace/technology

I'm definitely not the healthiest eater; I tend to reach for something unhealthy. But, those unhealthy snacks can make me happy which then wakes me up. Do as I say, not as I do.

Try to consume a snack that'll recharge your battery - apple + peanut butter, crackers + hummus, granola, etc. Follow these links for some healthy, reenergizing snacks - Snacks Option 1 & Snacks Option 2

+ Get some vitamin D

Take a break and go for a walk, even 10 minutes can do wonders. I worked at a clinic in Portland and there was a wonderful nature trail behind the building. It wasn't always exactly sunny, but getting out and some fresh air really perked me up. Now, I make sure to go outside and play fetch with my dog.

Sunshine, vitamin D and being in nature naturally energizes us.

+ Stay hydrated

Research shows that dehydration can make you feel sleepy even if you're well rested. Make sure you're drinking water throughout your day. If you have difficulty staying hydrated like myself, check out my other blog post for Tips to Improve your Water Intake.

+ Lunch with less carbs

Opt for a protein-filled lunch. Simple carbs raise blood sugar, eventually leading to a sugar crash.

+ Stimulate your senses

Chew some peppermint or spearmint gum

Use certain essential oils to perk you up - peppermint, lemon, rosemary, spearmint

Brush your teeth

Switch to a different workspace/area

+ Rework your schedule

Switch up your to-do list and complete the tasks that require the most focus and attention in the morning, before your afternoon funk hits.