Plan Ahead to Stay Awake on New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve is one of the most exciting nights of the year. As the clock strikes midnight, we ring in a new year full of possibilities and hopes for the future. However, New Year's Eve also brings the challenge of staying awake until midnight to celebrate the moment.
Planning ahead is key to making it to the countdown awake and alert. Here are some tips to help you stay awake on New Year's Eve.
Take a Nap During the Day
One of the best ways to ensure you'll make it to midnight is to get in a nap during the day on December 31st. Even just 20-30 minutes can give you a boost of energy to start the night. The ideal nap time is early afternoon between 1-3pm when we tend to experience post-lunch sleepiness. Set an alarm so you don't oversleep.
Stay Hydrated
Fight fatigue by staying hydrated all day leading up to your New Year's Eve celebrations. Dehydration can cause lethargy. Drink plenty of water and unsweetened drinks like tea or seltzer. Avoid too much alcohol too early in the night as that can lead to sleepiness later on.
Eat Small Meals
Don't weigh yourself down with a heavy meal late at night. Eat small, protein-rich snacks leading up to midnight to give yourself energy. Good options include yogurt, fruit, vegetables, nuts, or a piece of toast with peanut butter. Avoid simple carbs and sugars that can cause your blood sugar to crash.
Get Moving
Incorporating physical activity into your New Year's Eve plans is a great way to energize yourself. If you're going to a party, choose one with dancing or plan an activity like bowling or ice skating. Movement will get your blood pumping and help you stay alert.
Take a Caffeine Nap
A caffeine nap is a great hack for staying up late. Drink a caffeinated beverage like coffee or tea about 20 minutes before your afternoon nap. This allows the caffeine to kick in as the nap re-energizes you. Time this about 5 hours before midnight.
Use Lighting Tricks to Stay Awake
Lighting plays a big role in keeping our bodies awake. Use these lighting tips starting in the late afternoon to make sure you stay alert and energized all night.
Get Outside in the Sun
Spend some time outside in natural sunlight during the late afternoon before evening sets in. Exposure to bright light tells your brain to suppress the sleep hormone melatonin. Just 20-30 minutes can re-set your body clock.
Turn on all the Lights
Keep your environment brightly lit with overhead lights, lamps and other light sources. Dim, cozy lighting signals to your brain that it's time for sleep. The brighter the lights, the more awake you'll feel.
Avoid Blue Light Before Bed
Blue light from phones, TVs and computers tricks your brain into thinking it's daytime and inhibits melatonin production. Avoid blue light as you get closer to bedtime by turning off devices or using amber-tinted glasses.
Use Sound & Activity for Alertness
Use these tips involving sound, movement and interaction in the late night hours to keep your mind engaged and your body awake.
Listen to Upbeat Music
Create a lively playlist for the night filled with your favorite upbeat songs. Sing, dance and move around while listening to keep your energy levels up. Faster tempos and energetic music prevent the brain from feeling sleepy.
Have Engaging Conversations
Spending time with others and having fun conversations is a great way to make the time pass quickly. Interacting socially keeps your mind stimulated and delays feelings of sleepiness. Laughter also releases endorphins that energize you.
Play Games & Stay Busy
Stay active and entertained by playing games that involve movement like charades, hide-and-seek or dancing. Or play card and board games that keep your brain engaged. Any social activity will make the time go by faster.
Use Caffeine Strategically to Stay Awake
Caffeine is a useful tool for staying awake, but should be used strategically for maximum effectiveness. Time your intake wisely and avoid over-consumption.
Drink Coffee Before 9 pm
Coffee, tea, energy drinks or caffeine pills can all help give you a boost, but avoid drinking them too late. Caffeine's effects taper off after several hours, so have your last caffeinated beverage by 9 pm.
Take Smaller Doses
Rather than loading up on caffeine all at once, take smaller amounts spread out. This provides sustained alertness rather than just a temporary spike. Alternate coffee with tea or other lower-caffeine options.
Stay Hydrated
Caffeine can be dehydrating so complement it by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration leads to fatigue. Have a glass of water for every caffeinated drink to stay energized.
Know When to Call It a Night
While these tips can help you stay awake, don't force yourself if you feel exhausted. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
Take a Break
If you start to feel yourself fading, take a 20 minute nap or rest to recharge. Set an alarm so you wake up refreshed and ready for the midnight countdown.
Recognize When You Need Sleep
Trying to stay awake when your body desperately needs rest can be unsafe. Pay attention to signs of extreme fatigue like nodding off uncontrollably or blurred vision.
Don't Drive Drowsy
Never drive if you notice signs of sleepiness no matter the occasion. Call a cab or arrange alternate transportation. Drowsy driving causes thousands of accidents every year.
Staying up late on New Year's Eve can be fun and exciting. Planning ahead using healthy tips for alertness will help you celebrate midnight awake while listening to your body's needs for rest. Here's to an energetic and happy new year!
FAQs
How long before midnight should I nap?
Take a 20-30 minute nap in the early afternoon around 1-3pm. This gives you time to wake up and be energized for the late night ahead.
What foods help keep me awake?
Eat small snacks like yogurt, fruit, veggies, nuts and peanut butter leading up to midnight. Avoid heavy meals and simple carbs that can make you sleepy.
Should I avoid caffeine after a certain time?
Yes, avoid caffeine after 9pm since the effects will wear off just as you need alertness most. Time your last coffee, tea or energy drink before then.
How can I use lighting to stay awake?
Keep your environment brightly lit, get sunlight in the late afternoon, and avoid blue light from devices at night to regulate your body clock.
What should I do if I'm really exhausted?
Listen to your body. Take a nap, stop forcing yourself to stay awake, and don't drive drowsy. Safely getting rest is most important.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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