It’s 3pm and you’re struggling to get that burst of energy to make it through to the end of the day – fear not, we’ve got a few unusual techniques to get you back in the zone.

In a world where burnout is a buzzword and stress is a constant companion, feeling fatigued has become a common thread that ties us together. Whether you're a dedicated student, a bustling professional, a parent managing a household, or someone trying to find their footing in the midst of chaos, the struggle to stay awake and alert often feels like a shared journey. Our daily routine can feel like a balancing act, with deadlines on one side and our longing for rest on the other. The demands of work, family, and personal growth can lead to a snowballing effect of stress, and fatigue often rides the coattails of these pressures. But here's the thing: fatigue is not an unconquerable adversary. It's a signal, a red flag waving to remind us that our bodies and minds need attention and care.

Fighting fatigue often requires thinking outside the box. Now, ideally, your approach to preventing the 3 o’clock slump would involve preventative measures like the following:

• Avoiding added sugars
• Avoiding ultra-processed foods
• Eating a protein-rich, healthy fat-rich breakfast like avo and eggs on toast
• Getting a bit of morning sunlight

But let’s say you forgot to stick to these healthy habits and now your struggling to stay awake – what do you do? Here are five unexpected ways to combat tiredness and boost your energy levels:

Chew Gum

Chewing gum might seem like a simple habit, but research suggests that it can actually help increase alertness and reduce feelings of fatigue. The act of chewing stimulates blood flow to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and help you stay more awake and focused.

Splash Your Face with Cold Water

While a cold splash of water on your face might not sound like a ground-breaking solution, it can be surprisingly effective in combating fatigue. The shock of cold water triggers your body's natural stress response, releasing adrenaline and boosting your heart rate, which can help wake you up and increase alertness.

Engage in Microbursts of Physical Activity

When you're feeling fatigued, it might seem counterintuitive to move your body, but short bursts of physical activity can actually provide a quick energy boost. Try doing a set of jumping jacks, stretching, or even just briskly walking up and down a flight of stairs for a minute. Physical movement increases blood circulation and stimulates the release of endorphins, helping to counteract fatigue.

Aromatherapy

Scents can have a powerful impact on our mood and energy levels. Certain essential oils like peppermint, citrus, and rosemary are known for their invigorating properties. Inhaling these scents through an essential oil diffuser, a scented candle, or even by placing a drop of oil on a tissue and breathing deeply can help stimulate your senses and combat fatigue. 

Laugh Out Loud

Laughter truly is a natural energy booster. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones, which can increase your overall sense of wellbeing and help fight tiredness. Whether it's watching a funny video, listening to a comedy podcast, or simply recalling a hilarious memory, a good laugh can provide a quick and unexpected energy lift.

Incorporating these unique approaches alongside healthy lifestyle habits can create a well-rounded strategy for managing fatigue and maintaining optimal energy levels throughout the day.

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