Do you feel tired, drowsy groggy or irritable right after lunch? Do you crash at 3:00 pm? This is the so-called the afternoon slump where you find yourself repeatedly yawning, feeling ready for a nap or having problems concentrating on your work.

Afternoon slump may be due to fluctuation in hormone levels, inadequate sleep, unbalanced meals, too much stress and physical inactivity.

Here are some tips on how to pick up your energy level:

1. Go outside
Take a few minutes to step outside, exposure to the sun will increase your wakefulness.

2. Take a nap before or after lunch
A short rest of 15-45 minutes can reduce sleepiness and make you more alert and responsive.

3. Get enough sleep
Have a regular sleep schedule and go to bed early.

4. Eat healthy
Avoid foods packed with sugar and carbohydrates.

5. De-stress
Nourish yourself with loved ones, pets, prayer, reading, fishing, singing, hiking or making pottery.

6. Move your body
Fight off tiredness during midafternoon energy lag with some stretches or a quick walk around the block. It will get the blood flowing and force your senses to become sharper and more focused.

If afternoon slump or daily fatigue persists, consult your doctor to rule out any potential underlying causes.