Three Things - How To Holistically Heal - Low Energy + Protect Your Energy + Awe, Wonder & Feeling Lacklustre

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1. HEALING: When you feel low energy, consider this...

Feeling low on energy can be a real struggle, but understanding the sources of energy can help. The two primary sources of energy in humans are mind and body energy, which power both the physical and mental aspects of functioning. Mind energy is necessary for cognitive tasks such as problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity. It includes mental clarity, focus, and motivation. Body energy, on the other hand, is needed for physical activities like movement, exercise, and daily tasks. It encompasses physical endurance, strength, and vitality.

The mind and body are interdependent, and low energy levels in one can affect the other. For example, if you feel physically exhausted, you may struggle to stay motivated or focused. Similarly, if you are mentally exhausted or stressed, it may lead to physical fatigue and lethargy.

Several factors can lead to low mind and body energy levels. These include relying on simple carbohydrates like sugar and caffeine as a primary fuel source, as well as a lack of protein and carbohydrates in the diet. Changes in diet, such as restrictive diets or a lack of variety, can also contribute to fatigue. Insufficient sleep, staying up late, and hormonal imbalances are other potential causes of low energy.

Infections like viruses and the long-term effects of viral illnesses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, as well as chronic pain such as migraines, can also lead to fatigue. Side effects of medication, poor gut health, including gut dysbiosis, and overwhelming or traumatic experiences such as shock, depression, and dissociation can also contribute to low energy levels.

Burnout, chronic stress, chronic illness, chronic inflammation, a lack of physical activity, thyroid dysfunction, environmental toxins, dehydration, and vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as Vitamin D, Magnesium, B12, Iron, Zinc, and Iodine, can also cause fatigue.

Moreover, a lack of awe and wonder in life (see below) can also be a factor in experiencing low energy levels. It's essential to address the underlying causes of low energy levels to enhance overall health and well-being.

Note: The concept of chi energy, soul energy, or spiritual energy exists in many cultures and belief systems, and it can be described in different ways. In Chinese culture, the concept of chi energy refers to a life force or energy that flows through all living things, and is believed to be responsible for health, vitality, and balance in the body. In Indian culture, the concept of prana refers to a similar life force or energy that flows through the body and is believed to be responsible for vitality and spiritual well-being. This is for another newsletter.

2. REVERENCE: Protect your energy

Your energy is precious and should be protected like a valuable gem. When you feel drained, it's essential to listen to your body's signals and heed its call to slow down, pause, and assess whether you need to conserve your energy or push through.

Protecting yourself is an act of self-care that requires mindfulness and awareness of your needs. It's crucial to recognise when you need to protect your energy levels:

• After a long day
• During difficult times
• During premenstrual symptoms
• When you are feeling under the weather or unwell
• After a poor night's sleep
• When you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or scared
• When you are not ready to hear feedback

Taking the time to protect your energy enables you to move through the world with grace, compassion, and inner strength, knowing that you're in tune with your body and its needs. So, protect your energy, safeguard your well-being, and nurture yourself with kindness, love and rest.

3. EXPLORING: Awe, Wonder & Feeling Lacklustre

Dacher Keltner, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, has identified eight "wonders" of awe-inspiring experiences. Keltner's research has shown that experiencing awe can lead to positive effects on both physical and mental health, including increased feelings of happiness, reduced stress levels, and improved overall energy & well-being. Conversely, a lack of awe and wonder in life can lead to feelings of boredom, disengagement, and lacklustre.

1. Vastness: Experiencing something that is larger than ourselves, such as a stunning mountain range or a star-filled sky, can make us feel small in comparison, leading to a sense of awe.

2. Accommodation: Encountering something that is difficult to understand or doesn't fit within our current frame of reference can lead to a feeling of awe and the need for accommodation.

3. Humility: Awe-inspiring experiences can lead us to question our own importance and ego, leading to a feeling of humility.

4. Curiosity: Awe-inspiring experiences can spark our curiosity and lead us to want to learn more about the world around us.

5. Beauty: Beauty can inspire awe, whether it is in the form of a stunning sunset or a work of art.

6. Connection: Awe-inspiring experiences can create a sense of connection with others, such as experiencing a beautiful piece of music with a group of people.

7. Resonance: Experiencing something that resonates with our values or beliefs can create a powerful sense of awe.

8. Transcendence: Awe-inspiring experiences can lead us to feel a sense of transcendence or connection to something greater than ourselves, whether it is the universe, nature, or a higher power.

By intentionally seeking out experiences that encompass these wonders, we can cultivate a sense of awe in our daily lives, leading to increased energy, enthusiasm, and a greater sense of well-being.

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