Early May can be a weird time. It's not quite summer, but spring is on its way out; as a result, the weather is finicky, and you're like, "When is it okay for me to wear my bathing suit under my clothes as a ~fashion statement~, even though I definitely didn't go to the beach today?" One event that you do not have to wait for, though, is happy hour at Starbucks. Obviously, your next question is, "When is Starbucks Frappuccino Happy Hour?", since I just said that it's "a right now" event. Well, not, like, right now (unless you're reading this a few hours in the future). But today, definitely.
Beginning today, May 3, 2016, and running through May 15 (almost two whole weeks!), Starbucks patrons can roll up to any participating store between the hours of 3 and 5 p.m. local time and receive half off a Frappuccino — any Frappuccino. All Frapps are half off during Happy Several Hours, so indulge your craving as much as you like. And hey, if you're a Starbucks Rewards member, you even have a little extra time: For you, Frappuccino Happy Hour goes until 6 p.m. Now might be the perfect time to give one of Starbucks' summer-specific Frapps a shot; Caramel Waffle Cone and S'mores are both available now, and they sound magnificent.
Now, yes, that discount only applies to Frappuccinos, but I think most of us would probably agree those are definitely the best midday pick-me-ups. However, if you do not agree with this universal truth (which... fine..), here are a few more ways you can give yourself a little midday boost of energy, whether you're at the office or in between classes.
1. Get Up
The midday slump is a very real and recognized phenomenon. Best way to ensure you don't fall asleep at your desk? Get up from your desk! If your building has a stairwell, try doing four to six flights of stairs. If that's not an option, do a few lunges or squats. Anything to get your blood pumping and provide you with a brief change of scenery.
2. Hydrate
OK, yes, water is important, we all know, but sometimes drinking enough of it can be really tedious. I know that sounds really privileged, but it's true. I usually have to trick myself, and by tricking myself, I mean making a pitcher or a water bottle of water and a whole lot of fruit (citrus options are my favorite), letting it sit in the fridge until midday, and then treating it like a treat. You know, a water... treat.
3. Snack On It
If you're not going to be getting a Frappuccino during Starbucks Frappuccino Happy Hour (which, again... why not?), then consuming another sort of snack can give your body just enough fuel to make it to the end of your day. Go for high-protein, lower-carb fare, like this list of portable, healthy snacks, including cheesy kale chips and nut-heavy trail mix.
4. Aromatherapy
You guys, I know this makes me sound like your kooky, crystals-loving aunt, but aromatherapy is the bomb. Scents like peppermint and orange help energize and de-stress, centering you for a kickass afternoon. You can find either of these scents in concentrated essential oil form in health food stores, grocery stores, drugstores, and online. Try putting a drop on each middle finger and massaging into your temples when you can feel your energy dipping.
5. Stretch
Don't like the idea of running up stairs, but still need to get out of your seat? Stretch. Begin by rolling your shoulders forward and then backwards for two minutes, accompanying each roll with a deep inhale and exhale. If you need more of a structured routine, check out this stretching series made just for people who sit a lot.
Images: Getty Images; Giphy (5)
