Tip of the week: How to function on minimal sleep
Fuel up; Get moving; Power nap
Fuel up. Caffeine boosts alertness, but don’t go overboard with the coffee after an all-nighter—it also causes dehydration and jitteriness. Reach for fruit instead, particularly apples, which have natural sugars your body can use for both instant and longer-term energy. Avoid big meals, though, which will “put you in a food coma.”
Get moving. A quick run “releases a ton of endorphins,” which will make you more alert naturally. Note too that “your brain craves novelty,” so don’t sit still for long and look for fresh ways to engage your senses. “Go smell some smells,” or even spend a few minutes playing some “blood-pumping” video games.
Power nap. This will rejuvenate you only if you keep it brief. Napping longer than 30 minutes produces “sleep inertia” and reduces cognitive function.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Source: Gizmodo.com
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
The Chelsea Townhouse: London luxury feels right at home
The Week Recommends This boutique hotel strikes the right note between sophisticated and cosy
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?
The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower Show
The Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat