If the long winter, cold days and lack of vitamin D have given you an energy slump, don’t worry, you are not alone. You may be wondering how you can give your energy levels a good boost to make you feel more alive and less lethargic, and luckily, there are many natural remedies that can be of help to you at this time.

Below are 5 steps to help you feel a sense of renewal and vitality this springtime and onwards….

Look at your sleep routine

I recently read something that said, ‘There are not many things you can’t heal with a long sleep and a good laugh.’ And, it’s quite true! Sleep is something that gets ignored when you are busy and need to meet deadlines. However, it’s something you should prioritise so that your days aren’t spent feeling tired and lethargic.

It’s recommended that you get 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night, with a consistent bedtime and wake time to get your body clock in sync. Try this for the next few weeks and see if you notice a difference in your energy levels? The bright spring mornings should also help to give a little boost as you wake up too.

Find ways to deal with stress & anxiety

Periods of stress, worry and anxiety can take their toll on your body in more ways that one. Stress can cause bodily functions to work in overdrive, hence causing exhaustion and fatigue over time.

Finding ways to combat stressful situations can help to minimise pressure on the body. Exercise in the morning can help to create positive energy to start your day. Mindfulness and meditation, as well as certain breathing techniques, can help to increase energy levels mid-way through the day when your energy levels might take a drop.

If you are feeling extreme stress or anxiety, which you are finding hard to control yourself, then talking therapy, hypnotherapy or acupuncture are all natural therapies that could help you to ease the symptoms over time.

Stimulate acupressure points

Similar to what you would experience during an acupuncture session, you can self-stimulate certain acupressure points around your body to boost energy levels as well as improve other systems simultaneously.

Applying firm but gentle pressure to your Zu san li acupressure point – (also called Stomach 36) is helpful to increase energy levels as well as improve digestion and help relieve stomach pain and indigestion. The location of this acupressure point is located on the outside, high end of your shin bone. Run your fingers up the outside of your shin until you reach the top lumpy area, just below your knee where you might feel a small dip. Move your middle finger to this point and press down on it for up to 10 deep breaths (around one minute). Try to keep the finger still in position rather than massaging the area.

Increase your water intake

 It’s not only the peak of summer when you need to drink more water. Keeping hydrated is essential at any time of year to ensure you make up for the water you lose throughout the day.

Dehydration can affect your mood, your brain function and your energy levels in a big way, so aim to drink at least 6 – 8 glasses of water a day to stay on top of your hydration levels.

Exercise often

If you’ve been hibernating inside this winter, then now is the time to dust off those trainers and head outside for some fresh air exercise. A brisk walk, a gentle run, a cycle or an outdoor yoga session can all give your energy levels a much-needed boost. You don’t need to exhaust yourself to feel the benefits. The NHS recommends you do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week as well as breaking up long periods of not moving or sitting at your desk.

If you are still struggling with reduced energy levels, despite following these guidelines, then it might be worth speaking with a medical professional to rule out any other causes. If you are interested in finding out more about acupuncture treatment to help with stagnant energy, then please get in touch to arrange a free consultation.