Beating fatigue with Ayurveda
Within traditional Ayurveda, a person lacking energy and feeling lethargic is believed to have an imbalance of the body’s Kapha.
The Ayurveda principles encourage individuals to observe emotions and allow them to dissipate. Repressing any feelings can cause a mental imbalance, which can then lead to further imbalances physically, causing disease and discomfort.
The Kapha principle naturally creates traits of possessiveness, greed and jealousy. While these are not necessarily positive personality traits, allowing yourself to “observe and release” can help you regain control.
When you stop judging the state of your emotions, it can become easier to release them. Doing this will naturally rebalance your Kapha, leaving you feeling delightfully energised and refreshed.
Here are some tips to incorporate Ayurveda in your daily routine and boost your energy levels.
Eat an energising diet
Foods such as cheese, yoghurt and ice cream can increase Kapha in the body, as can fruits including grapes, oranges and grapefruits. In traditional Ayurveda, sweet potatoes, cucumbers and tomatoes are avoided, as is pork and beef.
If this seems like a lot, don’t panic – recommended foods include apples, apricots, pears, asparagus, garlic, mushrooms and leafy greens.
A discipline popular in Ayurveda is that when eating, your stomach should be filled one third with food, another third with water and the final third with air.
Yoga and Pranayama
Yoga and Pranayama have been found to be effective in boosting energy levels and fighting fatigue. Starting the day with an exercise creates a healthy rhythm and helps the body unlock energy reserves. This supports a balanced energy flow and promotes a healthy metabolism throughout that common afternoon slump.
“Cleaning breath” is a powerful breathing technique used to stimulate energy. Sit in a comfortable position, breathing in deeply. Exhale rapidly in short, powerful breaths and continue this pattern for five minutes, alternating each minute of breathing with one minute of resting.
Natural remedies
Aloe Vera and Alfalfa (delicious in tea!) are natural remedies effective in balancing an aggravated Kapha, while cinnamon is detoxifying and can strengthen and energise tissue. Essential oils in Ayurveda have a long history of fighting fatigue and boosting energy levels. Rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus can help to naturally unlock the body’s energy reserves, keeping you refreshed all day.