How to get through World Cup-induced sleep deprivation

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. How to get through World Cup-induced sleep deprivationImage source, Getty ImagesByAmy Walker and James Gallagher, Health and science correspondentPublished13 minutes agoYou know the score. You stayed up late at the pub in the early hours of the morning, or set your alarm for after midnight to watch England in its nail-biting match against Mexico. The result was worth it, but the euphoria alone might not get you through the next few hours if you have not managed to net the day off.

Now you are blinking at the screen, as unread emails or your boss's requests morph into visions of Jude Bellingham's flying header. But fear not, while you are bound to feel groggy or more irritable today, there are some ways you can feel more alert. Be wise with your caffeine intakeIt sounds like a no-brainer, especially if you are scrolling through these tips on your fifth flat white of the day.

The Details

Whichever way you get your caffeine intake - coffee, tea or energy drinks - you may find yourself reaching for more, because the drug changes the way the brain works so it stops paying attention to the signals saying we're tired. But be wise with it to make sure you can catch up on sleep tonight. The stimulant lingers in the body for a long time and scientists recommend having your last dose roughly eight hours before bedtime.

So, reader, if you are wanting an early bedtime - knock that espresso order on the head now. Get some daylightWhile the thought of braving the outside world may feel like the last thing you want to do, daylight can be a saviour when you are tired. Get outside as soon as you can.

Light sets our circadian rhythm, or 24-hour body clock, which tells us when to wake up. It means early light will tell your tired brain it is time to switch on, and it also tells your body to feel sleepy when daylight fades. Have a strategic napStrategic napping is also a power move to help refresh the brain for the afternoon.

What Experts Say

If you can wing it on your work break, the perfect nap time is just after lunch when the body takes a natural dip in so-called 'alerting signals' that regulate your sleep and wake. Dr Victoria Revell, an associate professor in transitional sleep and circadian physiology at the University of Surrey, says this strategy can "help reset the build up of sleepiness you will be experiencing". She also advises that you set your alarm so you do not nap for too long, to get "a boost without affecting tonight's sleep".

For those who can not find a private spot to curl up this afternoon, finding somewhere to sit quietly for 10 minutes or so can also be helpful. Importantly, try to go to bed around your normal time this evening to prevent long-term sleep disruption. Get movingTempting as sprawling on the sofa might be, a bit of exercise will make you feel less tired in the long run.

No-one is asking you to run around a pitch for 90 minutes today. Even a 15-minute walk can give you an energy boost, according to the NHS.

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