When I discuss health and well-being with an individual, the subject of energy is a key part of the conversation.  If this conversation takes place during an intake or follow-up session I usually ask for an idea of the individual's energy level on a scale of 10.  So what does this mean? 

            In the article on Connections last month, I stated my belief that we are all connected with a universal source that fuels our growth spiritually, vibrationally, energetically, and physiologically.  Our energy is produced under the influence of an electromagnetic field that surrounds each of our individual bodies and co-mingles when we are near each other.  At a lower level this electromagnetic field influences energy yielding processes in our cells including respiration, glycolysis and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and the action of our little energy factories in our cells known as mitochondria that are involved in a process called electron transport. 

            Energy can be derived frenetically as well.  When we are under stressful time-constrained circumstances we may feel energized in the moment, yet at the end of the day tend to collapse from exhaustion.  This is what I call “running on fumes”.  This kind of energy is actually very draining of our accumulated energy banks.  It derives from adrenaline and cortisol produced by our adrenal glands.  However, the supply of this energy is far from infinite and adrenals can begin to fatigue and weaken under chronic fight-or-flight circumstances (STRESS).  Yet, all is not lost. 

            Calming meditation, deep-breathing, yoga, and other mindfulness practices can help us regenerate our furnaces.  We can rebuild!  More cardio exercise benefits us by dissipating adrenaline and cortisol as these help to fuel our exercise.  Also, perspiration helps us detox.  If you are just overwhelmed and flustered, another way to reduce your cortisol levels and feel better is to cry.  No judgment.  A good cry can be very healing.

            Another way we can re-energize is through shared common interpersonal energy, the fulfillment we receive from closeness with others.  Although this effect may be lessened for an introvert as opposed to an extrovert, we generally experience a resurgence as our mutual energies converge, which helps to diminish the effects of our stressors.  Combining mindfulness and closeness allows us to find our own individual centers, grounding us within the common pool of our energies.  So, this type of synergy can lead to more energy.

            Of course, an energy level goal of 10 out of 10 on an on-going basis may be optimal, but if we have not achieved this goal our efforts toward mindfulness and fitness can help us move up the scale.  Wellness, including energy levels, will grow as we mindfully shift our consciousness and understand the many factors affecting our health and well-being.  Such practices help us to increase the depth of our self-understanding and to tune into the energies around and among us.  Thus, our energy levels can give us insight into how well we are doing on our own personal paths to wellness.