We’ve all had days like these. Staying up into the wee hours, finishing that project or binge-watching that show, or soothing that fussy baby, only to wake up the next day feeling like the walking dead. And if it just happens to be a day when deadlines need to be met and there’s no coffee at hand…well, you know how that’s going to go.
While we can’t promise a magical replacement for some much-needed sleep, here are five ways to jolt your system into alertness for the short term.
A firm tugZoning out in front of the PC or over your books? Lean back, close your eyes, take a deep breath, grab your hair and give it a firm tug. This gets the blood flowing in your head and can give you a much needed jolt of energy. The effects are temporary, but hey, when times are desperate, even a little action goes a long way.
Head rushThis one uses the same principle as the tip above. Stand up, plant your feet a little more than shoulder-width apart, knees straight, bend down and try to look back between your legs. The blood rushing to your head will refresh you. Slowly straighten up to prevent dizziness. This step has the bonus effect of giving your limp hair a short term volume boost.
A bit of refresh-mintAlways keep some mint-flavoured gum or candy handy. In addition to giving you fresh breath, the effervescent flavour can revive you. If there’s no mint handy, swizzling some mouthwash or toothpaste can have the same effect (another reason why brushing your teeth in the morning is important). Since anything vaguely minty or menthol-y has the same effect, smelling Vicks or a menthol inhaler can also have the same effect.
Cold realityIf you’ve run out of coffee, this one can help. Run to the fridge and pour yourself a tall glass of cold, cold water. This will bring your core temperature down and force you awake. The effects are more short-lived than that of coffee, so repeat it at intervals to stay awake and stay hydrate. You can maximise the effect of the cold water treatment by dropping some lemon or lime slices in your water and storing it in the fridge. The infusion of citrus oils into your drinking water will add extra kick.
Move itIf you can afford to take a break, step away from the bed or workstation, get up and stretch. From neck to back to limbs, give those muscles a tug, and then go stand outside and look at the sky for a few minutes. The combination of movement, which sends blood flowing through your muscles, and the direct sunlight on your face will rejuvenate you.
