JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Research shows that the reason why we crave coffee isn't just because we're tired, its genetics! Six genetic variants are responsible for coffee cravings, but there are other ways to boost energy without the dark stuff.
Chewing gum can increase heart rate, blood flow to the brain and can increase alertness. Make sure to grab the minty stuff. Mint stimulates nerve fibers keeping you alert longer.
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Another way is to simply eat breakfast! Whole grains at breakfast will give you a real energy boost. Just don't go overboard, overdosing on whole grains triggers a surge of serotonin which can make you feel sluggish, try to eat less than six servings a day.
Give massaging your ears a try, because all of your body's energy passes through
your outer ear, applying pressure to your ear may help invigorate your entire body. Simply pinch the rim of each ear between your thumb and pointer finger and rub.
And if the light in your office or room is dim, change it. A brighter light will help keep you focused. Blue light will give you a calm alertness while a red light bulb will give you an afternoon wake up call.
Now for tip number five: exercise. Exercise is proven to give you the boost you need while also burning calories. They don't call it runners high for no reason.
But if you don't have time to run a few miles, tip number six is to try singing out loud. Music is naturally energizing and researchers have found that singing solo increases energetic arousal and decreases tension. Or try this, sing while you exercise for a double dose of energy.