We can work towards fulfilling our dreams and aspirations only when we have the physical and emotional energy to do so. It is futile to continue pushing our boundaries for the sake of achievement - hence, it is important to find the delicate balance between fueling yourself and stopping right before depletion. Vata, Kapha and Pitta doshas have varying capacities for sustaining and expressing physical and mental energies. Resultantly, it is important to invest time into garnering a better understanding of these physical and mental energies, especially from an Ayurvedic standpoint. Here are some ways in which you can boost your energy with the help of Ayurveda:
Eat Seasonal Foods High in Prana
Prana is what constitutes our life force or vital energy. Our cells, tissues, and organs crave balance, which can be achieved by eating seasonal foods that are brimming with prana. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoid processed or packaged foods, as they are low on the pranic spectrum. Remember, the longer the shelf life, the lesser the prana.
Incorporate Herbs That Reduce Stress
Adaptogenic herbs such as Amla, Ashwagandha and Tulsi, can provide you with the energy required to combat acute stress or anxiety. You can make a concoction of herbal extracts and ingest it whenever you feel drained or stressed. Organic chyavanprash is packed with rejuvenating herbs that grant energy and vitality, amla being one of the key herbal ingredients. Amla is rich in essential antioxidants and helps combat germs by boosting immunity. For instant stress relief and increased blood circulation, one can massage an
ayurvedic hair oil rich in Bhringraj and Neem, as this will stimulate nerve ends and help release mood-boosting hormones like serotonin.rnYou can also give yourself a body massage with essential organic oils such as Ashwagandha or sesame, as this will help strengthen and tone muscles and calm the nervous system. Here is a list of three essential herbs that can help you manage stress and promote relaxation :
Ashwagandha
A popular adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps nourish and strengthen bodily tissues and is known for its relaxing and calming properties. It also has the ability to boost energy levels to a considerable extent.
Mucuna
Mucuna pruriens, also known as Kapikachhu, is a natural source of L-dopa, which is an amino acid that gets converted into dopamine. Resultantly, mucuna is extremely beneficial for the nervous and reproductive systems, both male and female.
Tulsi
Also known as Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum), Tulsi is revered for its sanctity in Indian households. Tulsi is beneficial for all doshas, as it clears kapha in the lungs, pitta in the blood, and vata in the nervous system. Tulsi is also rich in prana.
Have Your Biggest Meal At Lunch
Our bodies have the greatest ability to break down food between 10 AM and 2 PM. This is the time frame when our agni or digestive fire is most potent. Eating a big lunch provides your body with the opportunity to break down food and absorb essential nutrients in the best way possible. If you feel drained during the afternoon, it is a sign that your body needs more food around that time. A big, nutritious lunch will keep you full for a longer time, and grant you the necessary fuel for the rest of the day.
Be Mindful About Your Movements
Regular exercise is vital for holistic wellbeing. However, it is important to remain mindful about the way you choose to expend energy. If you feel physically drained, it is best not to put yourself through a high-intensity workout. On the other hand, if you have a sedentary lifestyle, you will feel emotionally and physically drained all the time. Exercise daily, but make sure to listen to your body, and move around accordingly.
Practise Mindful Breathing
Consciously practising breathing on a daily basis allows you to stay connected with your inner being and helps boost energy levels. Being mindful for five to ten minutes every day will help you focus on your tasks and stay on track - you can practice this especially when you are experiencing an energy slump. Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) and Kapalbhati (skull shining breath) can accelerate energy levels and allow you to accomplish your goals in a proactive manner.
Prioritize Joy and Be Grateful
While life can be abysmal for most of us, it is important to stop and take notice of the smaller pleasures in life. You can derive joy from small, and seemingly insignificant instances, such as a puppy licking your face, or children playing in the park - you will be amazed how one instance of joy can keep you going and motivate you towards finding inner happiness. When you feel mentally sound, you will automatically feel energetic to work towards fulfilling daily obligations. Most importantly, be grateful for what you have. What you consider as a bare necessity for you might be a dream or a luxury for someone else.
Hence, with Ayurveda, you can conquer your goals and live a happier, healthier life. Along with boosted energy levels, you will experience joy, warmth and mental peace.