Has Your Get-Up-And-Go Left For The Day?

If your energy is tanking, here are 3 quick science-based pick-me-ups you can do right now.

First, stop what you’re doing and go for a 10‑minute walk. According to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, a brisk 10‑minute walk is so revitalizing, it can increase energy for the next 2 hours.

Another quick pick-me-up: Grab a stick of gum. A study from the UK found that chewing gum, especially mint or cinnamon, raises alertness and improves concentration. It’s because the act of chewing increases blood flow to the brain. Plus, the stimulating properties in cinnamon can help fight mental fatigue, and improve concentration and focus. And mint invigorates the mind, promotes concentration and stimulates clear thinking.

One last energy hack: Take a mini-break, like 90-seconds every half hour. Say by standing up, stretching, or watching a short, funny video. University of Illinois researchers found workers who took short breaks every half-hour performed better than those who worked straight through the hour without a break.