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4 Ways to Stay Awake Without Coffee

Love coffee much? Perhaps you've already had six cups today and decided that's about enough. Or maybe you're training for a multi-day athletic event. Or reducing coffee is one of your new health goals. Here are some tried-and-true tips for you:

More: 25 Nutrition Tips to Improve Your Diet

1. Raw Hot Chocolate

Did you know there's caffeine in chocolate? Go for some raw cacao powder from your local health food store or natural grocery store. Combine 2 cups of liquid (water, almond milk, or coconut milk) with 2 to 3 tablespoons of raw cacao powder, a pinch of sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of sweetener (like honey or maple syrup). Warm it up in a saucer for a mild and steady caffeine fix that won't have you going bezerk.

More: Enjoy a Heart-Healthy Cayenne Chocolate Chai Latte

2. Hysterical Laughter

Read articles or watch YouTube videos that make you L-O-L. Or have someone tickle you. This is a positive way of waking up. By the time you stop laughing, you'll be brimming with the animation you need to stay awake. Also, laughing cuts back on stress; it's good for the heart, soul, and body.

More: 7 Foods to Keep the Stress Away

3. Cold Showers

Make it is as cold and as uncomfortable as possible. Or stand outdoors in cold weather for a few minutes. This can jolt you awake.

More: 6 Extra Energy Sources

4. 11 p.m. Benchmark

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, if you make it up past 11 p.m., your body is ready to stay awake for at least three more hours. This is why some doctors recommend going to bed before 11 p.m.

And remember: sometimes you really do just need the sleep.

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About the Author

Erica L. Robinson

Erica L. Robinson is a student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.
Erica L. Robinson is a student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.

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