Editor's Note: A form of this article was originally published in The ChalkBoardMag, for whom founder Shrankhla Holecek has written a series of articles on Ayurveda and its powers of natural healing.
Within Ayurveda, energy is a function of the Kapha principle. Lack of energy, lethargy, and listlessness can be attributed to an imbalance in the body’s Kapha. As we delve into understanding Kapha imbalance and how to counter it, it is interesting to note that the Kapha principle also governs the anabolism function of the body (anabolism is defined as constructive metabolism, in which larger, more complex molecules are formed from smaller ones). Excess Kapha leads to increased anabolism. It should come as no surprise that poor energy and sluggishness is often accompanied by another symptom of the Kapha imbalance: weight gain.
To beat fatigue, we’re going to draw upon a comprehensive approach rooted in Ayurveda wisdom that focuses on lifestyle habits, diet, meditation, and natural remedies.
Honor Your Emotions
I'd like to talk about your emotional lifestyle. Within Ayurveda, we are encouraged to observe emotions and allow them to dissipate. Repressing emotion will cause mental imbalance which invariably manifests itself into imbalances of a physical nature, causing discomfort and disease. The Kapha principle naturally tends to create traits of attachment, possessiveness, greed and envy. So is the recommendation to exhibit these traits in full force as they arise? Not quite, and the distinction from repression is subtle, though very powerful. When we experience these feelings—which are often considered socially-unacceptable—instead of going with our knee-jerk reaction of hiding them away in the darkest parts of memory, we must allow ourselves to observe and release. Let’s say you’re feeling greed come on: allow yourself to become aware of it, watch the greed unfold, learn about it, watch it reach its natural peak, and then release it. Once you stop judging your emotions, you will find it easier to not repress them, and eventually to release them fully. Naturally, your Kapha will become balanced (or, in the case of other feelings, Vata- and Pitta- imbalances will similarly heal) and you will find yourself delightfully energized.
Follow an Ayurvedic Diet
Consider Yoga and Pranayama
Kapalabhati Pranayama or “Cleaning Breath” is a powerful breathing technique to stimulate energy. Start by sitting in a comfortable position and taking in a deep inhale. Exhale rapidly in quick, short powerful breaths (some inhalation after each exhale is to be expected and normal). Perform for 5-6 minutes, alternating one minute of breathing exercise with one minute of rest. This exercise is also believed to help tremendously in fat metabolism.
Incorporate Natural Herbs and Botanicals
Alfalfa (try it in a tea!) and Aloe Vera are excellent natural remedies for balancing an aggravated Kapha. Cinnamon is a detoxifying herb that also strengthens and energizes tissue. A decoction of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and clove is a powerful Kapha balancer. Essential oils have a long history of providing great support to improving your energy levels, and in fighting fatigue. Peppermint, Rosemary and Eucalyptus can help naturally unlock healthy energy reserves that will last you through the day. Uma’s Pure Energy Wellness Oil blend harnesses the powerful effects of these and six other carefully selected essential oils formulated in expert traditions to provide all day health energy, all naturally.
