Lifestyle

Nap Breakers

You know what makes you look great to your boss? Falling asleep at your desk. Hey, it’s one less paycheck to sign. We all know the pain of that mid-day slump, but there are a few simple tricks you can use to avoid getting caught snoring on the job. Next time you feel like your face is about to plop down on the clock, skip the Red Bull and try one of these tips instead.

Get Physical
About to start snoring in your chair? Well, we know what it’s time for. No, not that candy bar you’ve got hiding in your desk drawer. Get off your butt! Even five minutes of brisk physical activity will do wonders for your energy level, while that Snickers will have you drifting off to dreamland once the sugar-high burns off. If your boss won’t let you sneak outside with the smokers, do a few laps around the cubicles. A little mild stretching is also a fantastic energy booster, as are high-kicks, cartwheels and flips. Talk about office spirit!

Brain Food
Do your eyelids feel oddly heavy after those mid-day excursions to Burger King? Well, there’s a reason for that. Fast foods are crammed with sugar, fat and salt. And giving your body a large dose of that particularly unholy trinity is a lot like telling it you’re planning on hibernating sometime soon. Next time you’re feeling peckish on the job, skip the fries and opt for foods that’ll fuel your brain instead of sedating it. Almonds, yogurt, dark chocolate, fresh fruit and popcorn are all great snacks that’ll keep your motor running that extra mile.

Coffee Craze
Admit it — what’s the first thing most of us do when we start feeling worn out? Reach for that trusty Cup o’ Joe, of course. But downing the black gold might be like throwing gasoline on a forest fire. Depending on how much coffee you drink during the day, consuming more can actually decrease your energy level. In fact, that lovely burst of energy you get after your first cup is actually the result of how caffeine stimulates your adrenal glands. But pumping your body with too much adrenaline will leave you drained and exhausted. Switch to water — at least after your third cup.

Forever Fit
Fitness has always been a hot topic. I find 60% of my clients who come to me for emotional issues also have weight problems. This actually inspired me to recently add a weight management program to my practice. There are three aspects of your life: physical, mental and emotional. It’s important to determine which you need help with most. Whether your life is full of stress due to a demanding job or the responsibilities of raising a family or trying to keep your marriage from falling apart, balance is crucial. Here are some tips: 1.) Accept weaknesses and find strengths; 2.) Set realistic expectations and goals; 3.) Say “Thank-you” more often; 4.) Learn to shift roles easily and lovingly; 5.) Find ways to minimize stress and maximize memory by balancing work with leisure time; 6.) Build relaxation breaks into your schedule; 7.) Give yourself credit for what you accomplish; 8.) Surround yourself with happy people; 9.) Learn what foods are best for your metabolism; 10.) Exercise as much as you can. In the end, mental fitness begins by simply being thankful for who you are and what you have. There may be challenges along the way. That’s OK! Make the time to care for yourself, your loved ones and be grateful for what you have not lost. You are blessed!

Lisette N. Beraja is a psychotherapist, LMFT, and founder of Beraja Counseling Center, a Florida Supreme Court Family Mediator and an 11th Judicial Court approved Parenting Coordinator. To set up an appointment or consultation with her, call 305.858.7763 or visit BerajaCounseling.com.

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