The energy and vitality of body, mind and spirit are continuously affected by the energy around us: weather, the environment, daily news, violence and challenges, the moods and struggles of our family and friends, the negative or angry energy in groups. Learning how to be present to ourselves and others, clear and current in the moment, can help us to live full lives with peace and wellness no matter what is happening around us.
The following exercises are tools to awaken, focus and boost energy at times when we feel drained, scattered or depressed. The challenge is to build them into our lives and lifestyle, so they become second nature and can be called upon whenever we are aware of stress, energy drain, depressed feelings or loss of our center. We can easily boost energy by stretching, dancing or mov- ing our bodies, or by using traditional movements of Tai Chi, Pal Dan Gum or the Salute to the Sun. All of these movements serve to open and balance the flow in the meridians or channels of energy throughout the body.
Open to the Heavens
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hands hanging loosely at your sides. Breathe in deeply and raise your palms outward and upward, stretching your arms upward to embrace the heavens. Breathe out your stress, problems and depression, and breathe in the energy of the heavens. Imagine the light and grace of the heavens flowing down into the top of your head, then flowing throughout your body, filling the tired and stressed parts, cleansing and clearing your cells and your entire being. Continue this exercise until you feel peaceful and full. Then slowly lower your arms, exhale deeply, relax and let go into the moment.
Stretching and Moving like a Tree
Trees and nature are tremendous sources of energy for grounding and healing us. Remove your shoes and place your feet on the ground (or imagine doing so). Breathe in, imagining that your feet are like roots of a tree running deeply into the earth. Breathe up the earth energy into your feet, and breathe out stress, tension and pain. Now raise your arms upward like the limbs of a tree. Stretch upward and outward toward the sun. Imagine the energy of the sun filling your limbs and renewing and energizing your entire body.You can also move your body like a tree. Imagine that you are a tree flowing with the breeze, moving your limbs and leaves, gently releasing any tension or body pain.
Freeform Movement & Dancing
A simple fun way to boost energy is by freely moving and dancing to some lively music. This also helps to balance all of your energy centers. While moving imagine a time when you were feeling happy and joyful. As you dance you can also sing openly and freely to a favorite song.