Struggling to stay awake and productive?
Ever found yourself nodding off at your desk, struggling to keep your eyes open? Whether it’s a long workday, a sleepless night, or just an afternoon slump, feeling tired can drastically affect your productivity. Instead of relying on excessive caffeine or energy drinks (which can do more harm than good), there are simple, natural, and effective ways to stay awake and alert.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best strategies to keep your energy levels high, increase focus, and fight fatigue—without harming your health.
Best Ways to Stay Energised and Alert
Avoid Too Much Coffee or Energy Drinks
It might sound counterintuitive, but drinking excessive coffee or energy drinks can actually make you feel more exhausted over time. While they provide a temporary boost, they also lead to an energy crash. Many energy drinks contain up to 13.5 teaspoons of sugar, which spikes your blood sugar and leaves you feeling drained shortly after. Instead, opt for green tea or herbal drinks for a more sustainable energy boost.
Take a Contrast Shower
If you’re feeling drowsy, a quick hot and cold shower can work wonders. The sudden exposure to cold water wakes up your body by improving blood circulation and stimulating your nervous system. If you’re at work and can’t take a shower, splashing ice-cold water on your face can have a similar effect.
Practise Deep Breathing
Breathing deeply and slowly can oxygenate your brain and help you stay alert. Try this simple exercise:
- Lie down or sit comfortably.
- Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest.
- Inhale deeply through your nose, making sure your stomach rises (not your chest).
- Exhale slowly through your mouth, as if whistling.
- Repeat this 5-10 times to increase alertness.
Studies show that deep breathing improves cognitive function and keeps you more focused throughout the day.
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
This one might surprise you! Eating something cold, like ice cream, in the morning can help wake up your brain. The cold temperature stimulates the nervous system, providing an instant alertness boost. However, this shouldn’t become a habit—opt for healthier cold alternatives like Greek yoghurt or smoothies.
Do Some Morning Exercises
Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to stay awake and energised. A few simple exercises in the morning can increase blood circulation, making you feel more awake. You don’t need an intense workout—just 3-5 quick exercises can be enough to get your body moving.
Use Essential Oils in a Hot Bath
A hot bath infused with essential oils like citrus, peppermint, rosemary, or eucalyptus can awaken your senses and keep you refreshed. The combination of warmth and strong scents stimulates your brain, making you feel alert and focused.
Step Outside for Fresh Air
Spending too much time indoors can make you feel sluggish. Research by Robert Thayer, PhD, from California State University, found that a 10-minute walk can provide more lasting energy than a candy bar. If you can’t go for a walk, simply open a window and take deep breaths of fresh air to recharge your brain.
Plan Your Day Strategically
A well-organised to-do list reduces mental clutter, allowing your brain to focus on tasks rather than remembering them. However, just writing down your plan isn’t enough—you must stick to it. This keeps your mind active and prevents boredom-induced drowsiness.
Limit White Sugar Intake
Foods high in refined sugar give a quick energy spike, followed by a severe crash. Instead of reaching for processed sweets, opt for natural sources of sugar like fruits, which provide a steady energy release.
Ensure Proper Lighting
A well-lit environment is crucial for staying awake. Bright lights stimulate brain activity and keep you alert. If you work in a dimly lit space, consider using daylight lamps to maintain a natural energy level throughout the day.
Take a 20-Minute Power Nap
If possible, take a short nap during the day. Research suggests that a 20-minute nap can improve concentration and productivity. If you don’t have time to sleep, simply closing your eyes for 10 minutes can also help you feel more refreshed.
Chew Gum to Stimulate the Brain
A study in the British Journal of Psychology found that chewing gum increases alertness and concentration. The act of chewing stimulates facial muscles, enhancing blood flow to the brain. Keep a pack of sugar-free gum handy for a quick energy boost.
Laugh More
Laughter isn’t just good for the soul—it also reduces stress and increases energy. Watching a funny video or reading a joke can help you reset your brain, making you feel more awake and engaged.
Try an Unusual Trick: Change Your Socks It may sound strange, but changing your socks in the middle of the day can make you feel refreshed and energised. This method, suggested by Greg Go, co-author of 10001 Ways to Live Large on a Small Budget, helps reset your comfort level, giving you a boost of energy.
