Natural Ways to Keep Yourself Awake

Sleep is a naturally recurring state of unconsciousness; whereby the sensory activity is greatly reduced, as is the voluntary physical activity of almost all muscles. It rejuvenates and revitalizes the mind and body and it is necessary to function properly as a human. Long periods without sleep cause lethargy, decreased cognitive and physical performance -- and in extreme cases -- it can cause hallucinations and even be dangerous to mental and physical health.

Teas and Vitamins

• Various teas and natural vitamin supplements are marketed as great ways to stay awake; and many are considered to be a more healthy and natural alternative to the traditional heavily-caffeinated beverages. Ginseng teas, green teas and herbal supplements can all be found in natural health shops -- and many will be specifically for the purpose of body and mind rejuvenation. Ensuring your body has all the necessary minerals it needs to function energetically, is also important.

Air

• The quality of air that you take-in has an effect on keeping you awake. Obviously the body needs oxygen to function -- and the less of it you get -- the more drowsy you will feel. Make sure the room you are in has good ventilation. Open the windows or doors, or use the air-conditioning to keep air circulating. Air filters improve the quality of air. Try going for a brisk walk outside to breathe in some fresh air, and even breathing exercises at your desk can help you stay awake. Inhale and exhale deeply to draw in as much oxygen as possible to oxygenate your brain cells.

Diet

• A healthy well-balanced diet is an important lifestyle factor that will help you stay awake more easily. Too much sugar and alcohol is not good for staying alert. Complex carbohydrates are good for boosting energy; so foods like oatmeal and whole grain breads are ideal. Bananas, apples and other fruits are also good; as is the importance of drinking lots of water to keep your body hydrated. Dehydration leads to drowsiness.

Exercise

• One of the best ways to stay awake, is to engage in some light to moderate physical activity. Not only will being fit give you more energy on a day-to-day basis; but a light workout will get your blood flowing and increase the oxygen supply to your brain. Heavy or arduous exercise will cause exhaustion and drowsiness. If you are stationary at a desk or workstation, get up and move around every so often to get the blood circulating. Being motionless can put your muscles into a state of rest and your brain can follow -- so keep moving regularly.