How to Instantly Boost Your Energy Level (Without Coffee or Chocolate)

By Food & Wine
Updated December 29, 2015
Courtesy of PureWow
You’re blasting through emails, brainstorming like a boss and crushing your TPS reports when…bam. It’s 3:00 p.m. and the only thing you want to do is take a nap.Sure, you could fire up the Keurig and make your third (or is it fourth?) coffee of the day, or grab a candy bar from the vending machine. But these quick fixes might make you feel even more tired by dinnertime.Instead, try one of our 11 quick pick-me-ups so you can get back to being a rock star.This piece originally appeared on PureWow.
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Take A Power Nap

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If you can sneak away for 15 minutes, lying down for a quick nap will help you recharge. Just make sure you’re not snoozing for longer than 30 minutes, or you might wake up feeling groggy.

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Look At Something Red

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Keep something bright red — like artwork or a bouquet of flowers – by your desk and look at it when you’re feeling drowsy. Studies show that looking at the color red can help you stay focused on detail-oriented tasks.

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Chew Gum

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When you start to feel your energy drop, pop a stick of sugar-free mint gum in your mouth — it’s a proven way to combat daytime sleepiness.

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Get Moving

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Stretching (even if you’re just standing next to your desk) can give you a quick burst of energy. A few yoga moves might even combat depression and anxiety.

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Sit Up Straight

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If your energy drops throughout the day, it might be your posture. In a study conducted by San Francisco State University, students who slouched noticed a larger decrease in energy throughout the day than students who stood up straight.

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Go Outside

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Been staring at the computer screen for the last eight hours? No wonder you’re exhausted. Escape the fluorescent lights for a few minutes — changing your environment will help you feel more alert.

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Watch A Funny YouTube Video

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Fact: No one’s ever fallen asleep watching Amy Schumer do stand-up. That’s because studies suggest that laughing can help you stay awake. We order you to take a YouTube break immediately.

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Turn Down The Heat

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When you’re feeling exhausted, turn the thermostat down a few degrees. You won’t be as cozy, but it might keep you from falling asleep at your desk.

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Turn Up the Lights

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Eyelids drooping? Turn on every light in your office and open the windows. Exposure to bright light will combat those sleepy feelings.

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Eat Almonds

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Nuts contain magnesium, which will help your body break down glucose into energy. Stick with raw, unsalted almonds for a healthy midday snack.

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Dance Like Beyonce

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Sure, you could do jumping jacks, push-ups or any kind of aerobic activity for a quick burst of energy, but we highly recommend blasting “Crazy in Love,” jumping on your desk and busting a move. You’ll wake up your co-workers, too.

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