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[231] - The ‘I'll Just Rest My Eyes’ Struggle - Staying Awake During Your Shift
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Are you guilty of “just resting your eyes” during a night shift… only to wake up 15 minutes later in a panic? It’s a struggle every shift worker knows too well. But staying alert doesn’t have to mean guzzling energy drinks or fighting sleep with sheer willpower.
Shift work goes against our natural biology. As creatures built to sleep at night and work in daylight, overnight shifts can throw your body’s rhythm into chaos. In this episode, we’ll dive into why fatigue hits so hard during shifts and share practical, science-backed strategies to fight back.
Caffeine—the double-edged sword of the shift worker’s toolkit. While a quick espresso can seem like a lifesaver, it impacts your sleep for up to 9 hours, fueling a cycle of poor rest and caffeine dependency. But used strategically, like sipping small amounts throughout your shift, caffeine can actually boost your energy without the crashes.
What’s even better than caffeine? Power naps. A well-timed 20-minute nap before or during your shift can massively improve alertness without leaving you groggy. Combine that with simple techniques like light stretching, protein-rich snacks, and hydration, and you’ll be equipped to tackle fatigue head-on.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The science behind why shift work is so tough on your body and mind.
- How to use caffeine wisely to avoid the dreaded energy crashes.
- The secret power of power naps and how to time them for peak performance.
- Quick, effective recovery strategies like movement, hydration, and protein to keep you sharp.
Your health and performance shouldn’t suffer just because you’re on the clock at odd hours. Tune in and discover how these evidence-based strategies can help you manage fatigue, stay alert, and feel better on your next shift.
Listen now to learn how to take control of your recovery and perform at your best—no more “pushing through” exhaustion!
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ANNOUNCING
"The Shift Workers Collective"
https://join.ahealthyshift.com/the-shift-workers-collective
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Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional. Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.
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Chapters
1. The Fatigue Battle Explained (00:00:00)
2. Strategic Caffeine Use for Alertness (00:04:26)
3. Power Naps: The Shift Worker's Superpower (00:08:21)
4. Movement and Hydration Strategies (00:10:16)
5. Smart Eating and Brain Engagement (00:11:52)
6. Quick Wake-up Techniques and Closing (00:13:41)
242 episodes
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