Avoid that afternoon slump with these 10 tips…
Mid-afternoon can be the time where many of us feel a lack of energy. A time when we grab a biscuit for a sugar kick or consume that extra cup of coffee to get our mind and body to the end of the day.
But ask yourself…is your brain and body asking for something else rather than false stimulants? Like a battery – you need to be charged up every day. The most powerful sources of clean energy include raw, organic vegetables and supplements. Most people know that raw fruits, vegetables and superfood supplements are good for health – however, they are often not consumed correctly in order to get the full benefit.
Read our top 10 tips to improve your energy, concentration and keep you feeling focused for the whole day…
Tip 1 – Add Chlorella to your daily routine
Chlorella is a freshwater, single-celled algae that grow in freshwater.
The algae, which is a popular food supplement in Asia has been used as an energy-producing food for centuries. The vitamins and minerals in Chlorella means that this supplement has a mood-enhancing effect on your brain and reduces tiredness and fatigue.
KIKI Health Organic Chlorella comes in both powder and tablet form. Why not add a tsp to a glass of water or to your lunchtime juice? Alternatively, start your morning with 2 tablets to keep you energized for the rest of the day.
Find out more about KIKI Health Organic Chlorella here
Tip 2 – Take a quick break
When you’re in a hurry to make a deadline, taking a break may seem counterintuitive, but it has the potential to boost your productivity. Taking a break might be as simple as grabbing a cup of tea or as complex as making a phone call, walking around the office, or simply staring out the window.
Alternatively, do something that strengthens your connection with your workplace, such as praising a coworker or brushing up on your skills.
Tip 3 – Add some Raw Cacao to your diet
If you want a healthy brain, don’t cut chocolate out of your diet! Cacao is the purest form of chocolate you can consume as it is less processed and raw. It also contains a wide range of health benefits due to the variety of minerals it contains.
It is high in iron, copper, magnesium and potassium, all of which can boost energy and combat fatigue.
Make our raw chocolate brownies here
Tip 4 – Drink Fluids
Dehydration is a big contributor to fatigue, which is why it’s a good idea to keep a water bottle or herbal tea nearby while you work. Try to limit your intake of sugary beverages and caffeine in the afternoon if you have trouble sleeping at night.
Tip 5 – Incorporate Camu Camu powder into your day
This fruit is packed with more natural vitamin C than any other food source recorded on the planet. Some health care practitioners have reported that Camu Camu has same day mood-balancing effects. Because Camu Camu powder is about 15% Vitamin C by weight it can support an increased serotonin level in the brain.
Top tip: Add a tsp to your lunchtime smoothie or yoghurt to feel the full effects of this energy-boosting berry.
Find out more about this sweet and sour berry here
Tip 6 – Get Outside
The Attention Restoration Theory proposes that spending too much time on a repetitive job might cause us to lose concentration. This occurs as a result of being exposed to nature or even seeing nature photographs. Experiencing the natural environment can also help to alleviate emotions of stress and anxiety, according to research. It doesn’t take long for these benefits to kick in. Even just 5 minutes of sitting outside in nature may help you get over the afternoon slump.
Tip 7 – Snack on Blueberries
Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among all fruits, vegetables, spices and seasonings. There is exciting new evidence that blueberries can improve memory.
Try our Blueberry Chia Pudding
Tip 8 – Get active
Using a brief session of activity (13), such as sprinting up and down the stairs, can help you get out of your afternoon lump. It is important to both your body and your brain to engage in activities that keep you from sitting (14) for extended amounts of time. Try to keep yourself moving throughout the day by taking brief restroom breaks or stretching a few times. Yoga postures and deep breathing (15) are also effective ways to recharge your batteries, as they help to reduce stress while increasing energy and attention span.
Tip 9 – Have Spirulina for breakfast to keep you charged for the day
Enjoyed thousands of years ago by the Aztecs who referred to spirulina as ‘tecuitlatl’. They supplied it to their athletes and warriors for added strength and endurance. Spirulina contains an abundance of valuable nutrients, including over 65% protein, fibre and chlorophyll, which makes it a great detoxifier with incredible effects on wellness and energy. Dubbed a complete protein, spirulina contains all essential amino acids—meaning those not already produced by the body.
Make our Spirulina Smoothie Bowl. Find the recipe here
Tip 10 – if you going to snack have a handful of walnuts
Walnuts can improve concentration, cognitive flexibility and memory! Snack on a handful in the afternoon to fight against brain fog and fatigue. Packed with a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid called omega-3, they boost brain and cardiovascular function.
Always have a bag stashed in your bag or desk draw