Non-Caffeinated Ideas to Stay Awake

Everyone gets tired due to various reasons (poor sleep, up late, not enough sleep, etc) but we all have lives that we can't just put on hold because we would rather spend a few extra minutes (okay, hours) in bed. So here are some tips to help you keep your focus and stay awake, even if you're doggone tired. 

• If you work in an office (or a job where you sit a lot), try to get up and walk around at least every 30 minutes. Sometimes this isn't possible so you could also try desk yoga. These are simple stretches to keep your blood circulating and your body alert. (Rather than try to describe the different methods, I'll let you google about them. Some are really simple like tipping your head back and forth and some require you to get out of your chair. Try whatever works for your situation). 
• Drink plenty of water. You may be tempted to grab that caffeine or sugary drink but both of these will lead to a crash later. Staying properly hydrated is very important and water can help you stay awake. 
• Keep yourself busy. This not only distracts you from being tired (depending on the task) but also that feeling of getting something done can give you a second wind.
• If possible, get some sunlight. Maybe this means opening the blinds or maybe it means going for a walk during your lunch break. I'm sorry this isn't possible on rainy days (which may be why rainy days seem so perfect for naps!). 
• Don't skip breakfast. This can help give you energy throughout the day. Same goes for lunch. However, don't have a heavy meal at lunch or you may feel more tired. You could also snack on high protein snacks throughout the day (not constantly, just every couple hours). 
• Chew gum or ice to keep your mind working. I know this sounds odd but it gives your body something to do other than the task at hand. 
• Splash water on your face or wrists. 
• Try to avoid getting too warm. I know this makes me sleepy but you can't always control the temperature of your environment. Perhaps dress in layers, splash water on your wrists, have a desk fan, etc. 

Hopefully these will help you but of course it's easiest to just not get tired in the first place. That's easier said than done and there will always be times when we are unable to keep our usual sleep schedule, throwing us off the next day.