No matter the time of day, sometimes you need a quick burst of energy. Whether you need to gear up for a big presentation or just need to power through the rest of the afternoon, we’ve got you covered. Try out a few of these tips for a quick energy boost:
1Take a coffee break.
Instead of having just regular coffee, try adding some coconut oil. You’ll get a quick burst from the combination of caffeine and MCTs. Don't like coconut oil coffee? Give cold brew coffee a try for a refreshing, cold version.
2Try aromatherapy.
Some essential oils like peppermint and citrus may help deliver a natural mental boost. Try sniffing the oils straight from the bottle or adding a drop mixed with carrier oil on your wrist.
3Eat a quick meal.
No time to cook a big breakfast before work? Take 10 minutes in the morning and have something low-prep and portable—a whole wheat muffin, toast with peanut butter and a banana, or even cereal with some milk. Eat something that will help fuel your body!
4Skip the elevator.
When possible, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Taking a couple minutes to walk up and down the stairs can help get your heart pumping and blood flowing.
5Play some mind games.
Puzzles like crosswords and Sudoku help you focus on one task, which helps get your brain energy flowing.
6Stretch.
If you’ve been sitting at a desk all day, make sure you stretch your muscles. Not only will this increase your energy, but you’re also less likely to suffer from backaches and headaches if you stretch throughout the day.
7Have a smoothie.
The smoothies that you can buy from a stand or store contain more sugar than you need and may send you crashing from a sugar high a few hours later. Try making your own and bringing it to work. Get some recipe inspiration by checking out the best smoothie ingredients.
8Get some sun.
Sitting under fluorescent lights all day long? Go for a quick walk outside or eat a small snack on a bench. Clean air will help refresh your brain, and even a few minutes of sunlight can support your body’s vitamin D and serotonin levels.
9Take a visual vacation.
Close your eyes and imagine your most peaceful place. Breathe deeply as you visualize the details: Where are you? What do you feel? What do you smell and hear? Once you have relaxed, count to three and ease yourself back into the present.
10Read.
Read a poem or a funny short story to help refresh your thinking.
11Go for a walk.
Use a pedometer to keep track of your progress, and set manageable goals for yourself. Walking will get your blood flowing and your mind active.
12Eat a healthy snack.
Skip the vending machine and snack on something light with protein. An apple with a couple of tablespoons of peanut or nut butter or whole wheat crackers with cheese will give you an energy boost to tide you over until your next meal with some protein and carbs.
13Laugh.
Chat with a friend, watch a funny video or read a funny blog. Laughing may not have proven benefits, but there’s no denying that it makes you feel good.
14Cool off.
Splash some cold water on your face for a quick pick-me-up.
15Drink some green tea.
The antioxidants in green tea deliver multiple health benefits from healthy weight management to cardiovascular support.
16Try some supplements.
After checking with a doctor, try relaxing herbs like ashwagandha or panax ginseng, which can help your body deal with stress.
17Start and keep a journal.
How many New Year's holidays have gone by with the resolution to keep a journal? If you set aside 10 minutes a day to write in it, it may be more doable. Journaling can help give you a better perspective on whatever is on your mind.
18Listen to some music.
Make a playlist or two of invigorating music to listen to whenever you need a boost or break.
19Eat some chocolate.
Chocolate is a mild stimulant and can satisfy sugar cravings.
20Feng shui your space.
Take 10 minutes to organize your space. Calmer surroundings will help you feel less stressed and work more efficiently.
21Take some deep breaths.
We often forget to breathe deeply throughout the day, especially when sitting constantly. Sit up straight and breathe deeply through your nose, hold it for a few seconds and breathe deeply out through your mouth.
What do you do for a quick energy boost?
Need a little more of an energy boost? Consider using one of these supplements for energy.