5 Coffee Alternatives to Get You Through the Day

We don’t have anything against coffee. Never fails to get the job done, and studies have shown that it’s got its share of health benefits. However, we’re also of the opinion that a hardcore habit of triple espressos, shooting boiling water through plastic pods and drinking six or more cups a day is probably a tad much (according to a recent study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, five is the ideal limit for heart health).

Whether you’re looking to cut back, or merely swap out a mug or two a day, here are five alternatives that will offer a proportional energy boost, with some added physiological perks to boot.

Mental Exercises

• Effective, free and available anytime, anywhere
• At your desk: Actively breathe by inhaling deeply, holding the breath for a few seconds, releasing, then repeating
• Away from your desk: Meditation apps (Headspace), expert techniques (Wim Hof) or a 20-minute power nap

Physical Exercise

• Squeeze in a workout (or even a brisk walk to get the heart rate up) during lunch and you’re golden
• Lunges, crunches, calf raises and push-ups can be done right at your desk
• No time to leave the office? Take stretch breaks.