How to Increase Your Energy Naturally

Every day the body goes through energy highs and lows. On occasion it is extra difficult to rise out of the lows; often this happens when we are pressed for time and need energy the most. Before you reach for that energy drink, try one or all of these six easy steps to increase your energy.

First of all, stop what you are doing for a moment. If you are sitting at a desk, get up and walk around.

1. Take deeper breaths. Most people breathe too shallowly. Cells need oxygen to function properly. Don't deprive them of this. Shallow breathing contributes to fatigue.

2. Arm swinging:

This is a technique used in the Chinese health and martial art system Chi Kung (Qi Gong)

Note: Do not attempt this if you have shoulder problems. Do not attempt this if you have ever had a rotator cuff injury. This exercise should be done in a relaxed manner; never force it.

Stand and relax, with your feet approximately shoulder width apart. Gently let both arms swing in unison. Swing them back and forth-- let them swing gently. Time your breathing so that your arms are swinging up and in front of your body on the inhalation, and they are swinging down and back on the exhalation. Don't tense when doing this and don't overextend your arms. Don't swing them vigorously, just in a relaxed and natural motion. Let yourself gently rock up a little on your heels with the motion. Do this 20 times or more, depending on your level of fitness and how your body feels while doing this motion. Arm swinging is said to stimulate blood flow as well as facilitate movement of "Chi" (internal energy) throughout the body.

3.Dance

Take 5 minutes or so, turn the radio up a bit and just dance. Don't do it too long, though, or you will wear yourself out. Do it just long enough to get the blood flowing and the oxygen moving through those sluggish cells. Don't worry about looking silly. Silly is not a bad thing. In fact, being a bit silly can help you get in touch with that boundless energy children have. Being a respectable adult all the time can get tedious.

4.Cold water

Dip a washcloth in very cold water and gently wipe it over your face. If it is a warm day, wipe it over your neck and arms as well.

5.Take a shower

Showers can be relaxing but they can also be invigorating. Falling water creates negative ions. Negative ions are believed to facilitate a positive mood (see webmd.com)

6.Aromatherapy.

Take a whiff of citrus oil or another invigorating oil. If your fatigue is due to being overly stressed, use lavender. If you simply need an energy boost, use citrus oil.

Pet owners: please note that many oils used in aromatherapy can be toxic to pets. Care should be taken to avoid exposing a pet to the oils-- including airborne particles