Boost Your Office Energy

The average American works more hours today than in previous years, and the fevered pace is taking a toll on our energy levels. Stress and a lack of energy can cause serious problems during your work day. When you've got little to no energy, chances are you're not doing your best. Low energy can lead to mistakes, acting grumpy towards coworkers or letting important deadlines slip through the cracks. The following are a few tips to help combat low energy and regain some oomph during the work day.

Choose Food and Drink Wisely

The all too familiar saying, "You are what you eat," isn't just an old wives' tale. If you think a cup of Joe is the essential energy booster, you're way off. Caffeine and sugar might make you feel alert for a few minutes, but shortly after you eat or drink them, your energy level tanks. So unless you maintain a constant flow of these unhealthy substances, caffeine and sugar only give you a quick fix.

Instead of reaching for a cup of coffee or a soda, eat a few small but healthy meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar levels stable. Enjoy foods high in Vitamin B, such as dairy, whole grains and seafood, which help to increase your body's energy levels.

Try to avoid processed foods such as chocolate, sugar and heavily salted snacks. Instead, opt for an oat muffin, granola bar, dried fruit, green or cinnamon tea, fresh vegetables, fresh fruit or a cup of yogurt.

Catch Some Z's

You've heard it a million times, getting the right amount of sleep is crucial to your health. Try to go to bed early to squeeze in another hour of sleep or take a quick nap during the day. With enough sleep, you'll start feeling more energized. If you simply can't fit any more shuteye into your day, try to schedule important meetings and challenging tasks during your peak-energy times when you're feeling your best.

Get Moving

Exercise increases your blood flow and releases pleasure chemicals in your brain, boosting your energy level. Take a break from your work day to go for a brisk walk outside or up and down the stairs. There are also three-minute aerobic activities you can do right at your desk.

Try Something Different

• Sniff invigorating scents: inhale fragrances such as citrus, mint or cinnamon. These types of scents will boost your energy.
• Energize with color: stare at something bright red or yellow for a few minutes. These colors are known to stimulate the brain.
• Wake up with touch: massage your feet and hands for a few minutes to increase your blood flow.
• Just breathe: for 30 seconds, take several deep breaths and exhale deeply, relaxing all your muscles.
• Stretch out: take a few minutes to stretch. This will loosen your muscles, ease your joints and increase blood flow.
• Catch some tunes: listen to upbeat music at work to get going.
• Drink cold water: hydrating your body will help perk you up.
• Brush your teeth: it helps in the morning, right? Why not try it during the work day.

Mix in different ways to energize yourself throughout the day. Once you learn how to combat low energy, your productivity will increase.

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