Tags
How to energize in less than 15 minutes!
I often get the question, “How do you manage to stay energized and motivated?” From working with clients and talking with other wellness practitioners, I’ve learned there isn’t a “one size fits all” formula to energize and motivate.
To complicate the matter, the routine you used last month might not be as effective this month. For example, six years ago, I was in LOVE with yoga and meditation. I was convinced that the energy and flow I felt would last forever. After two years or so, however, this feeling started to transform. The calming effects weren’t as intense, and I didn’t practice as often. Does this mean that they were no longer useful practices? No. It was only a sign that I needed to spice things up a bit in order to feel as energetic and motivated as I used to. Now, four years later, I’m back on the yoga/meditation wagon!
The lesson: To stay motivated and energized, you constantly have to spice up your routine.
Here are some tips to keep you alert, awake, and motivated:
Shake it!
Dancing and getting your body moving is not only fun but also extremely healthy for your bones. The benefits of movement spread well into old age. For energetic movement, try Nia or 5 Rhythms. For low impact, try Qi gong or Tai chi.
Walking/hiking:
Taking a 10-minute walk can really focus the mind, energize the body, and clear out stagnant ideas. Walking meditation has also been shown to boost willpower. Talking a quick walk around the block while working on that tedious assignment no longer seems like a bad idea, eh?
Visualization:
Think of that last trip you took or imagine being at your favourite spot. Hear the water, feel the wind, smell the air, remember that feeling of calm or excitement. Being there, even for a bit, can make stressful days a little more tolerable.
Hydrate:
If your energy is low, try drinking a glass of water. Fatigue is actually one of the first symptoms of dehydration. Adding a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is also great because it wakes up your taste buds and is loved by the liver and immune system.
LOL (laugh out loud):
Has a good belly laugh ever caused you to feel fatigued or unmotivated moments after? Probably not! I aim to have at least one belly laugh a day.
Remember why?
Asking yourself, “Why am I working on this?” will help connect your activities to your goal(s) and keep you motivated. This question will also prevent you from wasting time and energy on irrelevant tasks.
The most important thing is to listen to your body and have fun. Good luck on your energizing adventure!
Michelle Currie (M.Ed) is founder of Meditative Arts and a wellness writer. She works with ambitious but stressed out women who are ready to add harmony, fun, and empowerment to their lives.
