Wake Up Your Workday
In 15 Easy Steps

Okay, so you’ve hit that sluggish point of your day but before you reach for another cup of coffee or nod off at your computer terminal, try the following tips to refresh yourself:

1. Give yourself a beauty break. Go the ladies room, brush your hair, splash cold water on your face and reapply your make-up.
   
   
2. Run an ice pack (the one you use in your lunch bag will work great) or a cold beverage can over your neck and forehead. The strong chill should revive you instantly.
   
   
3. Liven up your taste buds by popping cinnamon gum or a strong peppermint in your mouth.
   
   
4. If you are like most of us, you hit a late afternoon slump. Try tackling the harder tasks first thing in the morning when you are most refreshed and leave the easier stuff for later in the day.
   
   
5. Grab a quick dose of fresh air by walking around the block.
   
   
6. Keep fresh fruit handy. Citrus fruit is especially useful as you can also savour its fragrance as you eat it.
   
   
7. Send your mind on vacation – momentarily that is. Close your eyes, put your head on your desk and picture yourself relaxing on a tropical beach, sipping a fruity cocktail.
   
   
8. Do some deep breathing. Slowly take several deep breaths. Inhale through your stomach and slowly exhale to the count of ten.
   
   
9. Stay hydrated. Keep an eight ounce bottle of water on your desk and refill it several times a day.
   
   
10. If you crave a warm drink, forget the coffee and try a cup of green tea instead. Non-caffeinated, this beverage is sure to revive you.
    
    
11. As often as possible, try to fit in a lunch time workout. For many there’s nothing more refreshing than a workout followed by a midday shower.
    
    
12. Keep a few eucalyptus branches in your office, their energizing scent will help keep you alert.
    
    
13. If you are unable to leave your desk during the day be creative on the spot with a little weight lifting. Use five-pound hand weights or two similarly weighted books and do a few arm curls.
    
    
14. Regardless of the season, use a fan to give yourself a burst of cool air.
    
    
15. Get a good night’s sleep. For many people eight hours of shut-eye a night is mandatory. Anything less will leave you feeling drained the next day.