Exercise For Alertness!

     I just finished reading an article on boosting alertness and it really hit home since I tend to work different shifts and long hours.  I have been known to rely on coffee to keep me going and when I overdo caffeine I end up feeling like shit.  Since law enforcement calls for shift work, I know I'm not the only one in this situation.  There are officers relying on all types of beverages with crazy stimulants that are jacking up their adrenaline unnaturally.  Overtime this will takes its toll.  So what is one to do to stay alert in a natural way?

     One of the best natural ways is through any form of activity or exercise that will slightly increase your body's temperature and the release of epinephrine, the adrenaline in your brain.  This doesn't have to be anything strenuous.  Simply getting out of your patrol car for a walk or touring your area at work can be enough.  How about a little light exercise on your lunch break?  Crazy idea, right?  Since you are unable to take a nap during work then this is the next best thing.  "Physical activity is especially helpful between 1:00 and 3:00 P.M., when your circadian rhythm, your brain's alertness cycle, naturally takes a dip.  Around that time, the cells in your brain that influence vigilance fire less rapidly," explains Doug Livornese, M.D. at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.  

     So stop being so sedentary at work and move.  Your body will thank you!