When you were in college, staying awake was an art form. But, missing out on shuteye
gets old really quickly
in the real world. Here are some tips to help you stay awake when you need to without
using medication.
Sleep is very important. Many people sacrifice it to
get more work done, have more fun and to do just about anything else. But, the body uses sleep as a time of restoration for the body. When you don’t get the right amount of sleep, then it is hard to stay awake
when you need to, like at work.
It is not uncommon to see people reaching for over-the-counter medications as a remedy for sleeplessness or to keep them awake when they have things to do.
However, these could have side effects from constant use.
When problems staying awake occur on a regular basis,
it’s time to try something else.
Let’s begin with the following tips:
* Get a good night’s sleep – The best way to stay awake is to sleep at night.
The average adult needs between seven and eight hours of sleep a night.
Then you can wake up naturally and have a better chance of staying awake.
* Get up and stretch – When you are tired at the office, take a break from
looking at the
computer screen.
Rub your eyes, stand up and take a walk around the office.
Do a few stretches to get the blood flowing again and to give you a
burst of energy.
* Introducing the power nap – When you are really tired, sometimes a fifteen or
twenty minute break will do you good.
It may be hard to justify this at your job but when you are off of work and
facing a long drive,
take the time to shut your eyes and let your body relax.
The purpose is to recharge your mind and body. Set an alarm if you
need to so that
you don’t overdo your power nap.
* Take a walk – Some people recharge their batteries by taking a walk at lunchtime.
It is part exercise and part energy boost. Breathe deeply and let your brain absorb
all that good oxygen.
Eating less at lunch in favor of a walk will also make you less
likely to be sleepy when you return.
* Listen to upbeat music – This will help in the car when staying awake is essential.
Slow instrumental music lulls you asleep. Music that makes you
feel like moving also
energizes you and will keep you awake.
* Lower the temperature – Turn down the temperature if you want to keep your eyes open. Warmer temperatures encourage the eyelids to drop.
If you work in a cubicle, try turning on a fan to cool things off.
There are ways to keep yourself awake without resorting to medication.
Try these tips first and see if any of them will work for you.