After a morning at the office, you need an afternoon pick-me-up. When you’re searching for something besides a cup of coffee, the following tips can help. These ideas are sure to boost your mood and give you a kick for the rest of the day. Try mixing and matching them for the perfect addition to your afternoon schedule!
- Eat Dark Chocolate
An afternoon snack is an excellent lift for the mind and body. If you ask us, it’s easier to make wholesome choices when your snacks taste good. Vegan chocolate is perfect for a p.m. pick-me-up because it’s plant-based and nutritious. There’s no guilt with this treat; just eat in moderation and be sure to choose dark chocolates with a high cocoa content.
High cocoa chocolate bars have plenty of fiber and essential minerals to help you power through the afternoon. Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants and a small amount of caffeine. You can make your afternoon chocolate experience more enlightening with fudgy cacao truffles or a dark chocolate bar with fruit-forward notes.
Ingredients like almond butter and sea salt will take your snack to the next level. If you’re looking for a healthy pairing for your dark chocolate, try whole fresh blueberries or raspberries. Other tasty choices include pretzels or walnuts.
- Take a Walk Outside
Working inside all day can leave you feeling exhausted. You can get the natural boost you need by taking a walk outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that physical activity offers immediate benefits for your energy and brain health. It can also help to reduce short-term feelings of anxiety.
When you walk, you’ll give yourself a change of pace from your usual environment. Remember, you don’t have to travel far from your desk to reap the benefits. Take a stroll outside your office or your home. Breathe deeply and clear your mind to restore yourself from the effects of overstimulation. While you may want to stay cool in the shade, consider spending a few moments in the sunlight.
A few minutes in the sun will give you a daily vitamin dose. Plus, you’ll have more energy to get through the afternoon when you get enough vitamin D. Walking can give you a much-needed break and motivation to finish a meeting or a project. As you get more exercise, you’ll help to enhance your overall well-being.
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- Try Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is another way to invigorate your mind. Certain essential oils can be especially inspiring for an afternoon pick-me-up. Choose bright and energizing scents like lemon or grapefruit. Other tantalizing citrus oils include tangerine and sweet orange. If you enjoy scents inspired by your favorite morning tea, pick the essential oil bergamot.
Lemongrass oil is clean and uplifting, while ginger oil is inspiring yet grounded. Or awaken your mind with peppermint essential oil. Choose scents like rosemary or cedarwood to encourage focus. Essential oils are convenient, but make sure to practice aromatherapy safety. Choose high-quality oils and never apply them to sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
When applied to the skin, you must dilute your essential oils with a carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil. Do not eat or consume your essential oils. Furthermore, always start with a small amount before increasing. Some ways to enjoy aromatherapy include jewelry diffusers and essential oil diffusers. You can also enjoy essential oils through aromatherapy sprays or body care products. Talk to a doctor if you have any questions about using aromatherapy safely.
- Enjoy a Cold Drink
A healthy cold beverage can help to keep you hydrated and awake on a hot day. It’ll also help to enhance your energy while stimulating your mind and body. Start with your favorite drink on ice.
If you’re looking for a natural boost, water is the healthiest and most hydrating drink you’ll find. Make it more inspired when you infuse it with strawberry pieces or slices of cucumber. Or jazz it up when you give it a simple squeeze of lime or lemon.
Get a steady and natural boost when you drink iced green tea. Pack it with plenty of ice and omit the sweetener. You’ll refresh yourself for the rest of the afternoon, especially when you flavor it with fruit or drink it in a fun reusable cup with a straw.
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- Listen to Music
Sometimes you need an upbeat song to help power you through your day. When you take your afternoon break, listen to your favorite music. Find a track that motivates you or gets you excited. You’ll feel inspired to finish the day and get back in the car for more of your favorite songs.
If you sit at a desk, create an afternoon playlist. Think of the songs that energize you while helping you focus. If you’re stumped, you can brainstorm genres or bands. Then create a compilation that keeps you moving without distracting you. Instrumental music and playlists with nature sounds can do wonders for those last few hours of work.
Tune out distractions with a quality pair of headphones. It may energize you further to get out of your desk. Stand up and stretch while you sing to your favorite tracks. You may find that your afternoon goes by faster. You’ll also help to distract yourself from sleepiness or stress.
Power Through the Afternoon
Everyone has their idea of an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether you need a snack or a break from your to-do list, there are plenty of ways to stay energized and inspired. Try one of these unique tips and ideas next time you need a boost. With a bit of experimentation, you’re sure to find your favorites. The best part about this list is it gives you natural and wholesome solutions to feel good about!