I did a stupid thing.
I had to pull an all-nighter to complete an assignment, so I went to the bookstore and bought seven chocolate bars.
I did this because, even if I ate all of them, it would still be healthier than drinking a Monster.
With the stress of finals coming up and many students either planning or needing to do the same, I began brainstorming with co-workers and checking the Internet about ways to stay up all night without destroying one’s cardiovascular system.
One tactic seen multiple times was eating. Not necessarily chocolate bars, but the act of eating or chewing can keep a person awake and kicking. Along those lines, drinking (water) will also keep a person awake. If the act itself isn’t enough, the need to urinate will be.
Another common thread is movement, specifically exercise. Ten pushups can provide an energy spike comparable to a sugary treat, with side effects including a stronger core and arms instead of a headache and mild addiction. Also, after the crash, you can do it again. Or go for a run, if it’s a clear night.
Finally, a proper environment to stay awake is important. This seems like a given, but lights must be on. Don’t blind yourself, but it’s much harder to go to sleep when the area that you’re in is bright and colorful. Music or a movie will also help keep one’s mind moving.
Everything must be done in moderation, of course. America already has an embarrassing obesity problem, so keeping it to vegetables or gum would be advisable, though don’t be scared of something real. Salts and minerals are expelled in urine as well as excess liquid, and urinating too much can become hazardous. Don’t tear any muscles doing pushups, and don’t get distracted singing along with your music or watching a movie.
It is important to note that students should always plan on getting some sleep, be it a nap before the study session or in the wee hours of the morning. Heading to your test with no sleep at all will guarantee failure because of a lack of focus, no matter how hard you studied.
I never ate my chocolate bars. As I knew in my heart of hearts all along, Kill Bill was everything I needed to stay awake until all hours. Like many things in life, needs vary from individual to individual.
Of course, the best method for all-nighters is to spread your studying out over the semester and avoid them entirely.
