In human development terms, we have not yet adapted to working inside. Over millions of years, our bodies have been programmed to shut off after a few hours of being in the dark.

But what is “dark”? “Dark” is related to lux levels inside vs outside and is effectively pretty much anywhere inside a building beyond a meter or two of a window.

By lunchtime, most people in modern caves (more commonly known as buildings) effectively have their bodies trying to shut down for the night.

For anybody who blames their sleepiness in the afternoon on too much food, then I would point them to a summer BBQ. Despite stuffing your face with food, how often do you feel sleepy when being outside at a BBQ all day (and if you do, I’d probably suggest you blame it on the booze not the food 😉!).

Therefore just like your teachers and parents probably told you, go and run around outside at lunchtime and you will be so much more productive in the afternoon!

Written by Matthew Edis