Why Do I Feel Sleepy in the Afternoon?

Many people experience afternoon fatigue even after sleeping for seven hours at night. This often occurs during the late afternoon hours, particularly between 2 pm and 3 pm, resulting in a lack of energy and an urge to sleep. This condition is closely related to insufficient qi and blood. To address this issue, it is recommended to consume more foods that tonify qi and nourish blood in the diet. Additionally, adjusting one's sleep schedule by going to bed at 10 pm and taking a 20-minute nap during the noon hour can help alleviate physical fatigue and improve work efficiency.

Why Do People Feel Sleepy in the Afternoon? Here are Some Possible Reasons:

1. Insufficient Yang Qi: Many individuals engage in activities that deplete their yang qi, such as excessive drinking, smoking, staying up late, and playing games. These unhealthy habits not only weaken the immune system but also accelerate the loss of yang qi. Typically, yang qi is abundant in the morning, resulting in better work efficiency. However, without a noon nap, the yang qi within the body is greatly depleted, leading to afternoon fatigue. In such cases, gently tapping the sides of the spine, particularly the waist area, can help replenish yang qi and alleviate fatigue.

2. Dehydration: Dehydration can cause headaches, increased fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, all contributing to afternoon fatigue. During hot weather, the body is more prone to losing water, necessitating increased water intake. It is recommended that women consume at least 1.6 liters of water daily, while men should aim for at least 2 liters. This refers to plain water, not sugary drinks or juices.

3. Impact of Electronic Devices: Many office workers spend extended periods in front of computers and frequently use smartphones during breaks. These electronic devices can strain the eyes and lead to mental fatigue. Eye fatigue often triggers feelings of drowsiness, increasing the urge to sleep and a sense of physical exhaustion.

4. Late Meal Times: Poor eating habits, particularly skipping or delaying meals, can contribute to afternoon fatigue. Eating lunch too late can result in food coma in the late afternoon as the body redirects blood flow to the stomach for digestion. This can lead to mental sluggishness and increased feelings of fatigue.

How to Combat Afternoon Fatigue? Stimulating the body can be an effective way to overcome afternoon fatigue. Simple stretches and movements, such as straightening the legs, raising the arms overhead while inhaling, and bending forward while exhaling to touch the toes, can help alleviate fatigue and improve mental alertness. Repeating this exercise several times a day can significantly enhance one's energy levels and work efficiency. Additionally, taking a short nap of about half an hour during the noon hour can also help prevent afternoon fatigue.

How Long Should a Nap Be? The duration of a nap varies depending on individual needs and occupational characteristics. Scientific studies have shown that nap durations ranging from 10 minutes to 45 minutes can be beneficial for different professions, such as clerks, pilots, astronauts, and doctors, depending on their work intensity and physical condition. For clerks who engage in lighter tasks like computer work, a 10-minute nap can be sufficient to recharge and eliminate fatigue, enabling them to return to work refreshed and avoid afternoon drowsiness. On the other hand, professionals like pilots and astronauts may benefit from naps lasting 20 to 30 minutes, which can help slow down the heart rate and protect the heart.

It is also advisable to nap in a bed to achieve a deeper sleep, which is more beneficial for heart health. Individuals who nap for around 45 minutes may enter a light sleep state, which can help recharge the brain and regulate the immune system, promoting overall physical and mental well-being. However, it is important to note that nap durations should not exceed one hour, as this can lead to feelings of tiredness and discomfort.