It's 2PM. You've had your coffee, maybe two, and you're still reading the same email for the third time. The afternoon slump is common. Here are simple, everyday ways to get through it that don't involve a third cup.
Why the afternoon slump happens
Your body runs on a natural daily rhythm, and many people feel a dip in alertness in the early afternoon. A heavy lunch, a short night's sleep, too little water or too long at a desk can all make it feel worse.
7 ways to get through the afternoon
- Drink water first. Even mild dehydration can leave you feeling flat. Keep a bottle on your desk.
- Go lighter at lunch. Swap a heavy, carb-loaded meal for protein, vegetables and whole grains.
- Get outside for 10 minutes. Daylight and a short walk are a reliable reset.
- Move every hour. Stand, stretch or take the stairs.
- Time your caffeine. Coffee late in the day can affect your sleep, which makes tomorrow's slump worse.
- Protect your sleep. A consistent bedtime does more for your afternoons than anything you drink.
- Build a simple daily routine. Small habits you repeat every day are easier to keep than big changes.
Caffeine-free options from Zehst
If you'd rather not add another coffee, two Zehst formats contain no caffeine:
- Zehst Capsules: one capsule with water, with 450 mg Tongkat Ali. No prep, no sugar.
- Zehst Honey: a sachet of honey with Tongkat Ali and Panax Ginseng, taken straight or stirred into tea.
Already a daily coffee drinker? Zehst Coffee replaces the cup you'd drink anyway rather than adding another.
Not sure which suits you? See Why Zehst for a side-by-side comparison.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you feel tired all the time, speak to a doctor. Zehst is a health supplement, not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and is not suitable for anyone under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with diabetes, high blood pressure or a heart condition.