HEALTH + WELLNESS
AYURVEDIC LIFESTYLE PRACTICES
IMPROVE YOUR ENERGY
BY KAMIE SLEGERS (SHE/HER)
W
hat do you do to boost your energy and rejuvenate? Do you grab chocolate, a soda, or a strong cup of coffee? These provide a buzz for the moment, but quick fixes lead to crashing consequences on long-term health. As the body’s first alert systems, low energy and fatigue urge us to take a closer look at what we do or neglect to do. Plenty of demands drain our energy. Constant stimulation and fixation on electronics preoccupy our attention. When always on-the-go, many people feel depleted and overwhelmed, proudly trading time for self-care for physical and emotional exhaustion. Ayurveda’s holistic approach to wellness and energy considers whether
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we overstimulate, underuse, or abuse our bodies, minds, and emotions. It examines social life, daily routine, nutritional habits, and spiritual practices, searching for the root cause of health concerns rather than treating the manifesting symptoms. When “dis-ease” appears, poor choices can overload or even obstruct the movement of vital energy. Fatigue, lethargy, loss of interest in life, inadequate digestion, aches and pains, depression, anxiety, and lack of energy result as a consequence. To find unlimited energy, we must understand the underlying cause of fatigue.
Build a foundation with the four pillars of Ayurveda. Begin with reasonable lifestyle practices, quality sleep, proper nutrition, and energy management.
inclusive of practices supporting energy needs, required nutrition, and coping skills to manage stress.
• Have a regular bedtime and rise at the same time each morning. The body’s internal circadian clock knows when to release the right hormones for sleep and wake.
• Eat meals at regular times. Breakfast
before 9 a.m., a meal between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and an evening meal before 6 p.m.
• Proper rest and activity are critical to
preserving health and having energy to thrive. Allow time to start the day with exercise and end with a gentle walk or yoga to unwind.
• Bookend each day. Start and end the day the same way. Build a routine
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