Written by: Anna Lawrence, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
As Spring is here and Summer quickly approaches in the Northern hemisphere, we are moving out of a period of natural rest and into one of activity. Due to the restful nature of Winter, you may be experiencing some type of fatigue, whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional.
Here are 3 common Ayurvedic practices that you can add to your routine to shake it off and energize naturally for the uplifting and active summer season.
1. Perform Daily Abhyanga (oil massage)
A massage can often feel like an out-of-reach treat due to the high prices and time commitment. But, what if I told you that didn’t have to be the case? Okay, I’m listening! YOU can gift yourself with a daily massage to support your overall health and well-being. I know it’s not the same as getting pampered by someone massaging you, however, it can be just as relaxing, detoxifying, and healing as a paid massage is.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ and has so many healing and mood-elevating properties, like peptides, nerve receptors, and immune modulators. The act of massaging your whole body has been proven to improve your immune function and sleep quality, reduce pain, and increase energy levels.
The proper functioning of your nervous system and endocrine system are so important for your overall health as well as for sustainable energy levels and mental focus. A consistent practice of abhyanga can be a powerful building block for sustained and focused energy! And you get to know your body in a whole new light while saving hundreds of dollars. Sounds like a win-win to me!
But how do I perform Abhyanga? Great question! Here is a six-minute video tutorial on Abhyanga. And here is my favorite oil to use.
2. Daily Grounding Sessions
Now that the earth is thawing and the spring flowers are blooming, this is a perfect time to get outside daily and connect with Mother Earth’s energy. Ayurveda is built on the five elements ‒ space, air, fire, water, and earth ‒ and recommends synchronizing your daily and seasonal routines to nature’s cycles of rest and activity.
Prana, the life force energy, is strong during this time of year because so much of the world is in bloom again. Be intentional about the time you spend outside and stay present by using your five senses. Walk around in your bare feet on grass, picturing the grounding energy of Mother Earth coming up through your feet and energizing your entire being. Stargaze at the night sky, or take a daily walk in nature, lovingly touching the grass, flowers, and trees, and listening to the flow of water nearby.
Having nature this accessible is a privilege, so if this is not available to you, trick your mind into thinking you are in nature! Hang up pictures of the outdoors in spaces you spend the most time. Set up a small water fountain on your desk, or play sounds of nature on Youtube while working or cooking. The more connected you are with nature’s powerful energy, the more you can utilize that for your energy and spirit.
3. Daily Mindful Movement For Your Dosha (Mind-Body Type)
Raise your hand if you’ve been personally victimized by HIIT workouts, *raises hand*. Finding a workout routine that feels good for you can be tough. The media is so focused on selling you the instant six-pack or dropping a few pant sizes, that most workouts are not sustainable and leave many people feeling even more fatigued than before. The key to success is to work out for your unique mind-body type or dosha. If you’re not sure what yours is, take the FREE quiz here!
If you are a Vata type, you’ll want to favor slow-moving and grounding exercises. Some great examples are gentle yoga, tai chi, walking, short hikes, and dancing. Avoid exercises that are too intense or fast-paced. For the Pitta types, you’ll want to choose more medium-paced activities like walking or jogging, skiing, kayaking, and dancing. Try to avoid sports that have a lot of competition, as that can be aggravating to the fiery Pitta. For Kapha types, you’ll want to choose exercises that are fast-paced and energizing! Think aerobics, brisk walking or running, dance cardio, strength training, and vigorous yoga. Avoid slow-moving exercises, as this can create more lethargy and tiredness. Walks outside and yoga are two exercises that can be balancing for all doshas.
As we continue to move into the summer months and the pace of life starts to pick up, remember to check in with yourself and what needs your body is seeking. It’s okay to make adjustments to your routine. It’s okay to try new things. Challenge yourself to be aware and present each day.
Anna Lawrence ‒ Total Well-being Coach & Instructor of Ayurveda ps.
Want to learn more about which Ayurvedic practices have been known to manage fatigue and support sustained energy? Download my FREE ebook here!
Keep an eye out for my self-paced, Ayurvedic health online course, Fatigue Free: A Roadmap For Female Entrepreneurs to Regain Their Energy Naturally Using Ayurveda, launching in June of 2022. Sign up for early bird discounts & access here.
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Anna Lawrence, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Anna Lawrence is a certified Chopra Health (Ayurveda) and Primordial Sound Meditation Instructor, as well as a Total Well-Being Coach. In 2017, Anna was diagnosed with Hashimotos, an auto-immune disease, and dealt with chronic fatigue, digestive issues, and fear of never feeling like herself again. The daily fatigue and digestive issues got in the way of accepting a full-time offer at her ski instructing job, and doctors told her she would never be able to eat wheat or dairy again. Anna realized that her health was preventing her from living the full life she always wanted, so she sought out a solution. In 2021, she completed the Chopra teacher & coach training programs and her whole life shifted. When she learned about the Ayurvedic healing system, she realized how out of balance her mind-body system was and how that imbalance was the source of her dis-ease. She has always been passionate about natural healing and wants to help other fatigued female entrepreneurs regain their energy naturally and find balance in their life through Ayurveda.
