Tired at work

Some days I get so tired at work that I can hardly keep my eyes open. Naps would be nice. Some of us have even talked about where we could lay our "kindergarten mats".

We have discussed the idea of implementing afternoon naps and locking up the front door for an hour or two to our boss Kari and she doesn't really like the idea - something about us not being productive or something like that if naps were part of the day.

It has been suggested that studies show that if a person is able to take a short nap, productivity goes up. Kari still isn't buying it.

I came across an article entitled "Five ways to beat fatigue at work" and I think some of these things may help.

1. Eat a TINY square of chocolate.

(It was emphasized TINY - I guess because other wise the FAT in fatigue would be emphasized.)

Chocolate, it is said, "boosts our moods by releasing energy or feel good endorphins." (I always knew there was a reason why chocolate tastes so good.)

2. Drink two glasses of cold water.

The article said even small cups of water will work. I drink water throughout the day but it is not usually cold - room temperature. Apparently one of the major causes of exhaustion is dehydration. You may not even know you are suffering from dehydration but if you are feeling quite sluggish, this could be the reason. Another reason I thought of that water helps a person get over the exhaustion feelings at work is because we have to get up to use the restroom after too many of those little cups of water.

3. Doodle. If you're yawning," the article says, "consider doodling." Apparently this can help the brain focus. (Watch out though - you could offend someone with those cartoon characters you are drawing of them.)

"When you're focused on what you're doing, you're less likely to be zoning out and thinking about a nap." Ok, who knows, some of those doodles could turn in to fantastic art pieces.

4. Snack on something vitamin C rich. Oranges or lemonade are suggested. (I suppose it wouldn't be a good idea to have a lemonade and gin or orange juice and vodka...)

5. Stretch. The article suggests doing forward bends at your desk. According to the Chinese, stretching can activate a reserve of sustaining energy that rests between the kidneys. I don't know about this one - it sounds more like a full kidney from that water and lemonade we are instructed to drink.

I don't know. I really would rather just take a nap. We will continue to work on Kari to push this one through.

* Lorri Glawe is a member of the Pilot-Tribune news staff. Reach the columnist at lglawe@stormlakepilottribune.com