Don’t feel bad for your sleepy vibes and tired eyes mid-afternoon. Feeling sleepy at this time is biological. It’s human nature for that 2pm nap urge to come on and totally natural to want do so (even more if you had a carb heavy lunch!). We experience dips in energy based on circadian rhythms. That mid-afternoon energy dip only lasts about two hours, but it can be tough to fight through.
What do I do when a quickie nap isn’t an option? My afternoon “pick me ups”, sometimes one works, sometimes I need a combo.
- Brew a cup of Organic India Tulsi Tea
This delicious tea made from Holy Basil is an adaptogen that provides energy without the jitteriness. In its natural state, it is considered to be an herbal stimulant, yet is caffeine free and my go-to drink of choice at the office.
- Legs up the wall pose (particularly beneficial in the privacy of your office or if your workplace is “cool like that”)
It’s just what it sounds like. You lay on your back, place your booty as close to the wall as possible, extend your legs up the wall in a way that allows you to relax the legs, and what happens afterwards is central nervous system magic.
For the most benefit, I hold the pose for at least ten minutes, but even just hanging your feet up the wall for five minutes will make a difference.
- Matcha Magic or Magic Latte
While all green tea naturally contains caffeine, the energy boost received from Matcha is largely due to its unique combination of other nutrients. When matcha is absorbed, the catechins increase the time it takes for the caffeine to break down in your bloodstream, leaving you with prolonged energy without the crash, but not enough to make sleep impossible. Matcha Green Tea can last up to 6 hours and because of the effects of L-Theanine, Matcha drinkers experience none of the usual side-effects of stimulants such as nervousness and hypertension. It’s good, clean energy.
You can find my favorite DIY Matcha Latte Recipe here.
Elissa’s Matcha Magic
Ingredients:
1-2 tsp. high quality organic Matcha powder (I recommend DoMatcha or Kenko brands)
10 oz. filtered water
1-2 inches fresh ginger, juiced (or use a high quality ginger powder, like this one)
2 tsp. Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar
juice of one fresh lemon
cup ice
4-5 drops organic stevia (I recommend Body Ecology Stevia)
Shaker or bamboo whisk (optional)
Directions:
Add ingredients into a shaker, shake well, pour over ice. If no shaker, whisk matcha into filtered water, add ginger, lemon, and apple cider vinegar, stir vigorously and pour over ice. Sweeten with a couple drops of organic stevia.
Matcha will naturally separate over time, if that happens simple stir to re-blend.
The first two words that comes to mind when I hear B-complex….”Energy Boost”, which makes sense as B-12 is the vitamin responsible for energy production 😉 Long term, B-12 supports cardiovascular function and is linked to a decreased risk for degenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s. Short term, B-12 supports adrenal function and energy production.
Take 1 dropper full daily in the early afternoon.
- Run out for a Reflexology Foot Massage
It may sound more like a segway to naptime than an energy boost, but reflexology massage is simultaneously relaxing and energy boosting. The method of applying pressure to certain points sets in motion impulses throughout the nervous system and opens up energy pathways. Reflexology works directly with the energy system to facilitate energy flow and nourish the central nervous system, so never feel guilty about stepping away for a little foot rub.
- Take a whiff of Grapefruit Essential Oil
Grapefruit oil is one of the best essential oils for stimulating energy and all you need is to breathe in a few whiffs.
- Step outside and soak up some sunshine
I’m a big believer that sunshine can cure almost anything, even the afternoon slump. If you’re trapped inside an office most of the work week, mandatory daily sunshine is a must. If you can utilize 15 minutes of your lunch break to spend outside, your energy and mood level will greatly benefit.
- Add a pinch of sea salt…in particular into a lemon, chia water
For a boost of caffeine free energy, pull out the sea salt. A pinch of real sea salt (important that you leave the Morton’s out of this one!) provides vital minerals that act as an conductor to deliver electrolytes directly to your cells.
Lemon, water, and a pinch of real sea salt is what I call “Liquid Sunshine”. It promotes energy and is nourishing for the adrenals. When you add a spoonful of chia seeds, you further maximize the energizing power. Chia seeds have been used historically for their energy and endurance benefits.
Add 1 tsp. chia seeds to 16 ounces filtered water with a pinch of Himalayan or Celtic sea salt. Allow chia seeds to soak for 2-3 minutes, stir, and enjoy.
