Natural support on these shorter, darker days. Are you an afternoon coffee drinker? Did you know that after your first sip, it takes about 20 minutes to have a stimulating effect on the body. Once in the body it takes about 6-10 hours for one half of that caffeine to be eliminated!! (anyone wonder why they can't sleep at night?) Caffeine is a stimulant so it increases alertness. But it can also cause anxiety, irritability, rapid heartbeat, insomnia and other sleep disturbances as well as a 'caffeine crash' once the effects wear off. Here are some natural ways to boost energy that don't involve caffeine. One of my favorite ways to get through the afternoon slump is to drink a big glass of water, take a short walk outside and use aromatherapy. Studies have shown just smelling essential oils such as peppermint, lemon, rosemary and eucalyptus can naturally increases alertness and gives a boost of energy. They are also metabolized quickly out of the body within 2-3 hours. And are caffeine free (and not addictive) so you don't get the cons that come with that cup of caffeine.