Hello March! Are you looking to put a spring in your step and in need of an energy boost? Nature is really starting to wake up and is getting ready to burst into spring but some of us may be feeling lethargic and still in hibernation mode. Low energy can be put down to lack of sleep, stress, inadequate nutrition or other lifestyle factors. If your energy levels are feeling depleted, here are some simple, natural ways you can help your body to feel re-energised and ready to take on the brand new season and the better days which are coming our way!

Alternate Breathing

How you breathe can have an impact on how energised you feel. By breathing slowly and deeply, you’ll maximise oxygen intake which will increase your energy levels.

How to do it:

• Breathe in & close your left nostril with your left thumb
• Breathe out through your right nostril, then inhale through right nostril
• Close your right nostril with your left little finger & ring finger so that both nostrils are closed
• Hold your breath for a few seconds, then release your thumb, breathing out through your left nostril
• Inhale again through your left nostril, then close it with your thumb
• Hold your breath for a few seconds, release your fingers & breathe out through the right nostril, then in again
• Repeat eight times

massage your ears

I always carry out some ear massage towards the end of my Indian Head Massage treatments and there’s a reason for it. Aside from feeling incredibly relaxing, there are more than 100 acupuncture points in the ear which all represent different organs and parts of the body. By massaging your ears, you can stimulate different acupoints and activate vital energy.

How to do it:

Massage both ears at the same time for 1-2 minutes. Start with your earlobes and rub all over the whole surface firmly, using your thumbs, index and middle fingers. Then pull each earlobe down and twist your ears one way and then the other.

Tap your thymus

Your thymus is located in the upper chest, behind the sternum and about 7cm beneath the throat. It regulates your body’s immune system by secreting defence hormones (lymphocytes) and you have more energy when your immune system is strong. It is common practice in China to tap your thymus first thing in the morning to increase energy levels and  reduce stress and anxiety.

How to do it:

Sit upright and breathe slowly and deeply. Using your fingertips or fist, tap on your sternum for 60 seconds. Repeat this several times a day for an instant boost.