6 ways to beat the afternoon slump

The post-lunch, early-afternoon coma: We’ve all been there. And believe it or not, there’s some science behind it.

Your energy and concentration levels naturally take a dip at about 2 or 3 p.m. It's a regular part of your circadian rhythm, or natural sleep and wake cycle. You may also feel sluggish in the afternoon because you ate a lunch full of carbs, you’re dehydrated, or you’ve been sitting at work or school all day.

But drinking your third cup of coffee may not be the solution for low energy, partly because a late jolt of caffeine can keep you from falling asleep later at night. Instead, beating a slump may be as simple as grabbing a snack or watching a funny video. Here are some quick—and easy—ways to shake off that sluggishness.