Coping Strategy #3: 2 Min Workout

If you’ve ever felt your energy crash in the afternoon, you’re not alone. I found a tiny yet mighty trick to keep myself alert without resorting to long naps or endless cups of tea. It’s so simple you might think it’s too obvious, but I promise it works.

In this episode, I share why we often get stuck in that sleepy slump and how one straightforward tactic can help you feel more awake. You’ll also hear tips for putting it into practice without adding complications or extra steps. Sometimes the best solution is the simplest.

The Big Afternoon Hurdle

Do you ever notice your mind go fuzzy after lunch? That’s the moment your productivity and focus dip. Many people try to push through, but it often makes things worse. Your brain and body need a quick break or change of pace to reboot.

Coping with dyslexia, ADHD, or any learning difference can make that slump more intense. It’s easy to get frustrated or blame yourself. But the afternoon dip is a natural part of most people’s day. You’re not alone in feeling like a zombie at 2 p.m.

A Simple Tactic That Works

This approach is almost too easy. It’s a small movement you can do during that energy crash. I started doing it a few months ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Without giving the whole thing away, I’ll say it involves changing your posture in a brisk, deliberate way.

“This tactic is so simple you might be tempted to overcomplicate it. Don’t. That’s where the magic is.”

In the podcast, I explain exactly what to do and why it works. The short version is that it resets your mind by jolting you out of autopilot. It’s like hitting a mental refresh button.

Breaking the Pattern

One reason you might dismiss this tactic at first is that there's a tendency to think more complex means more effective. But piling on steps can create friction, especially for an ADHD or dyslexic brain. Keep it simple or you’ll be less likely to do it at all.

• Stop overthinking. The simpler, the better.
• Give yourself permission to pause for a minute.
• Return to your work feeling recharged and more present.

You’ll realise you can slot this micro-break in anywhere—at your desk, in the kitchen, or during a quick trip outside. Consistency is the key. If you use it daily, you’ll begin to look forward to that short reset.

Putting It into Practice

The easiest way to start is to set a reminder when your energy usually dips. You don’t need a fancy app. Just place a sticky note somewhere you’ll see it. Then, when the slump hits, take that 30 seconds to do the move. It’ll feel almost too quick, but you’ll notice the difference.

1. Mark your usual slump time (say 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.).
2. Stop what you’re doing. Stand up or shift position.
3. Perform the movement you learnt from the episode.
4. Take a deep breath and notice your body wake up.
5. Continue your day with renewed focus.

This tactic doesn’t replace proper rest, hydration, or healthy living. But it does help you push past that dreaded afternoon fog. Over time, you might find it boosts your overall mood too.

• Give yourself a one-minute break to reset.
• Keep it so simple you never skip it.
• Use your body to re-energise your mind.

Key Takeaways

• Your afternoon slump is natural, especially with dyslexia or ADHD.
• A brief physical reset can boost your focus.
• The simpler the tactic, the easier it is to do regularly.
• Overthinking often leads to skipping the strategy.
• A tiny habit can spark a big energy shift.

If you want to hear the full story and the exact method, head to the podcast player above and give this episode a listen. I share how I discovered the tactic, why it works, and how you can adapt it to fit your life. If you found this helpful, consider supporting the show on Patreon.

And don’t forget there’s more to discover at The Truth About Dyslexia, where you can take our quiz and join our awesome community. Plus, our friends at Remarkable Minds are here to support you on your journey. Until next time, stay curious and keep waking up your mind piece by piece.