From massaging a specific part of your body to timing your coffee – six tricks to boost your energy

YOU would be forgiven for thinking that energy drinks help keep your eyes open.

But new research suggests they’re messing with our sleep.

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One study found that 18- to 35-year-olds who drank them daily slept about 30 minutes less than those who drank them occasionally or not at all.

The more a person drank, the fewer hours of sleep they got.

Kirsten Jones has some easy tips to help you stay alert without energy drinks – and you won’t wake up at night.

Massage your ears

OUR holes are not just for listening. According to experts, the ears are full of pressure points that increase blood flow and postpone the need to take a nap.

Using your index finger and thumb, gently rub back and forth along the edge of each ear.

The rubbing motion awakens the nerve endings and brings more blood to the head, making you feel more alert.

Light a cinnamon candle

WHO knew scented candles were so useful? More than just a mood booster, the aroma of cinnamon is believed to make you feel more motivated and energized.

If cinnamon isn’t your thing, try essential peppermint oil or drink peppermint tea.

The minty freshness is enough to give you a short-term cerebral blast power.

Do not drink coffee before 10:30 am

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MOST of us reach for the kettle straight away.

But wait a few hours and you may feel a greater benefit.

Studies state that our cortisol levels – also known as the stress hormone – are highest between 8 am and 9 am.

Drinking your favorite latte at 10:30 a.m. gives your cortisol time to calm down, and the energizing boost you get from your cup of tea will have a better effect.

Wear red

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The color red is generally associated with danger – think of all those red warning signs and traffic lights – but it’s not all bad News.

Scientists claim that when we see color it jolts our muscles and makes our reactions faster and more intense.

It may only be a short-lived effect on our energy levels, but every little bit helps!

Watch a funny show

The saying “a laugh a day keeps the doctor away” may be true, especially if you enjoy a good old comedy.

When participants in an American study viewed 12-minute comedy clips, they reported feeling less tense and more energized compared to when they watched non-funny clips.

Now there’s an excuse to watch Friends for the umpteenth time. . .

Switch hands to do tasks

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Have you ever tried brushing your teeth with the other hand? It’s a challenge, but your brain will reward you.

Scientists say you can trick your brain into releasing dopamine – the happy hormone that keeps you alert – simply by trying something new.

Drink your cup of tea with your other hand and feel refreshed.