Tips to Combat Office Fatigue

Finding yourself exhausted at your desk or falling asleep after an after-lunch meeting are typical symptoms of a typical workday. For most office workers, an afternoon slowdown is a result of a natural circadian rhythm or body clock. When these symptoms become frequent, it may be a sign of office fatigue—a condition that may be exacerbated by several lifestyle factors. The good news is that office fatigue can be fought and conquered by taking simple steps to boost your energy.

Think Ergonomics: Whether seated, standing or on the move, your posture influences how quickly or slowly you experience fatigue. Sitting in an ergonomic chair without slouching and with your feet planted firmly on a footrest or on the floor is one of the best ways to prevent your muscles from tiring. Holding an improper posture that causes body weight to be unequally balanced while standing can also tire you out. Simple conscious choices to maintain the right posture can go a long way in helping you beat fatigue.

Adequate Sleep: A good night’s sleep is an effective remedy for a plethora of stress-induced conditions and is one of the most powerful ways to combat office fatigue. An average of eight hours of sleep helps your body heal and re-energize for the day ahead. Poor sleep habits disrupt your body clock and lead to fatigue at work, making you less productive and prone to exhaustion.

Balanced Lunch: While breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, studies in the area of workplace nutrition reveal that a light lunch comprising a lean protein, fresh vegetables, and unrefined carbohydrates are helpful to stave off exhaustion. Amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine are supplied by lean protein and help you stay alert and boost your energy levels. Avoid the temptation to load up on heavy gravies and fatty foods that sap your energy and cause the spike in blood sugar that makes you drowsy.

Dissipate Stress: Unnecessary stress can cause you to feel mentally and emotionally drained, and chronic stress can manifest as fatigue. Practicing meditation and relaxation techniques, and maintaining a healthy social environment at work helps you focus your mind and put away unhealthy stress. Avoid smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages and needless worry to keep your mind healthy.

Get Moving: Half an hour at the gym can do a lot to get you in shape and combat fatigue. A sustained exercise regimen releases endorphins, giving you a sense of well-being and boosts your energy levels. However, while exercise is beneficial to overcoming office fatigue, overdoing it can often exacerbate the condition. Pick the early hours of morning or evening for your fitness regimen and watch your energy levels soar through the afternoon.