Coffee dependence is real, and it may not be the most ideal solution for folks working from home if consumed excessively. After all, our home-based workstations can make us feel nestled into our comfort zones.
The temptation to laze around or to sneak a quick nap looms and that is dangerous for our productivity. It would be highly beneficial if we were to incorporate other methods to stop us from dozing off at our cosy workstations.
Below are a handful of alternative approaches we can use to keep our bodies and minds alert while eschewing coffee intake.
1. Breathwork
This breathing exercise allows the diaphragm to be stimulated, making the body more alert. As you close your mouth, inhale and exhale quickly through your nose with speedy breaths for about 10 seconds before alternating to regular breath patterns. Repeat the process a few times and you’ll be sure to perk up.
2. Exercise
Move! If you feel lethargic, stand up and take a quick walk around the house or catch some instant sunlight with a speedy stroll outside, if possible. This works because exercise promotes the secretion of norepinephrine, a chemical that helps one feel more awake.
Put on your favourite song and dance it out for a couple minutes; you could even film a TikTok video while you’re at it. Even a few body stretches can go a long way.
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3. Nut it Out
If you’re about to doze off, perhaps “going nuts” might just do the trick to keep you awake. Feast on some almond or walnut snacks to enjoy a healthy dosage of Omega-3 which is great at keeping your alertness levels high.
You’re essentially spoilt for choice when you have the freedom to pick between delicious pistachios, cashews, hazelnuts and more.
4. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Sometimes, it’s best to go back to basics. Make sure that your body gets adequate levels of H20 and try to substitute coffee or other sodas for a glass of classic sky juice. Now, what water does is that it speeds up the energetic processing of our body, making it a calorie-free way to nourish yourself.
You don’t have to stick to the rule of drinking eight glasses a day, as long as you feel your water intake is sufficient. Filling a bottle with water works too!
5. Having a balanced, regular diet
Part of why you feel lethargic or fatigued during working hours could be influenced by what you eat, and how often. You should not skip meals as you’ll lose out on the energy that you need throughout the day, which might prompt you to overeat when it’s time for a subsequent meal.
It's important to keep blood sugar levels at a steady rate, whilst ensuring your body gets all the nutrients it needs to function optimally.
In a nutshell, there are plenty of ways to fight off sleepiness without a cup of joe. Too much of anything - including coffee, proves to be detrimental for us all. It all comes down to how we oversee our eating routines as well as our intake and habits - so we have far more control than we know.