Contributed by Michelle H
Feeling drained, tired, over-worked, worn-out, unfocused or downright depressed? My lowest of the lows hit me in the winter time. There’s just something about sunshine, warmth, and light that keeps me in my happy place. Spring brings the promise of longer days, warmer weather, rich green grass and popping tulips. But who am I kidding? We live in the Midwest. Spring also means snow and ice storms if Mother Nature wants to play April fools all month long. While I won’t be changing the weather patterns any time soon, there are a few indulgences in life that can perk up even the droopiest of faces.
Where would we be in life without coffee? Probably in bed. Let’s face it, I’m not sure I would make it out of bed every day without the promise of my over-sized mug of coffee goodness. As it turns out, coffee has its health benefits too. Harvard Health reports that coffee drinkers may have a reduced risk of heart disease, Parkinson’s, and certain cancers and has been linked with a longer lifespan. As if I needed another reason to reach for my coffee in the morning…
On the flip side, maybe we can just go back to bed? For a little while anyway… The National Sleep Foundation reports that a 20-30 minute nap can improve mood, alertness, and performance. Albert Einstein was known to indulge in an afternoon nap on the regular. So, if one of the most intelligent men in history found value in it, sign me up!
Last, but not least, hit up that beach! Take a vacation and fly away to warm seas or snow capped mountains; whatever floats your boat. Not only does this have major perk factor, but it also stimulates our economy. Let that sink in for a minute. You are doing a public service by taking a vacation. It’s a totally selfless act. Or not. But it’s still awesome. Forbes reports that if employees would take one additional day of earned leave each year it would result in an estimated $73 million in output for the U.S economy. That means my vacation supported someone’s job. You’re welcome.
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