Navratri 2023: 7 ways to boost energy levels while fasting
If Navratri fasting makes you lethargic, here are tips and tricks to feel more active and energetic as you fast.
Navratri 2023: Navratri fasting is a great way to detox but eating the right food even during fast is important to keep your energy levels optimum. Many people tend to feel lethargic during their fasts due to change in food habits, over-focussing on a single food group, or eating deep-fried foods. A balanced diet which has high fibre, protein, carbs and other vitamins can help one feel energetic. However, if you still feel low on energy and finding it difficult to go ahead with your day, you can use other tricks to feel more active and energetic. Stepping out in the sunlight, taking a short nap if you are sleep deprived, hydrating yourself well are things that can help you immensely during your Navratri fasting. (Also read: Navratri fasting rules 2023: Dos and don'ts to follow, foods to eat and avoid)
The nine-day celebration of this much-awaited festival started on March 22 and will conclude on March 31 with Ram Navami, celebrated as the birth of Lord Rama. Maa Durga devotees fast either for all nine days during this time or keep vrat in jodas - first two and last two days.
TIPS TO BOOST ENERGY LEVELS DURING NAVRATRI FASTS
To ensure you remain in the best of your moods and energy levels during Navratri, here are some tips suggested by Nutritionist Sakshi Lalwani on how to stay energised during your fasting days.
1. Soak up the sun: The sun’s rays are basically feel-good rays. If you are looking for natural ways to boost your energy for free, it doesn’t get any better than stepping outside. Exposure to sunlight will increase your brain’s release of the hormone serotonin, which is associated with boosting your mood and creating focus.
2. Get the right amount of sleep: It may be easier said than done, but making sure you are getting rest is one of the most important natural ways to boost your energy levels. You should aim for around eight hours of sleep nightly—much less or much more than that can make you feel sleepy and unfocused.
3. Try essential oils: There are several essential oils that are excellent for boosting your energy levels, like peppermint, citrus blends, and rosemary. You can include these in your diet & say bye bye to tiredness!
4. Nourish yourself properly: Make sure you are properly nourishing yourself during your eating window. Whether you are following a Ramadan or Navratri, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, protein, fiber, and healthy fats can set you up to feel better during your fasting window.
5. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is arguably almost as important as sleep when it comes to maintaining energy levels. You may find it beneficial to incorporate electrolyte enhanced beverages as well. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium are crucial to numerous functions of the body and aid in maintaining your hydration status.
6. Stand up and start moving: When you lack energy while fasting, you can often blame it not on the absence of food, but on the absence of movement. In general, people are quite sedentary, sitting in front a computer screen, behind a steering wheel, or on the couch. To start feeling energized, take a walk, do a mini workout, stretch.
7. Laugh more often: The average child laughs more than 300 times a day. The average adult? Only five times. The act of laughing can make your general outlook on life better. This improvement in perspective stimulates energy, so take the time to identify what gets you giggling. After you know what works best, give laughter a try whenever you need a burst of energy. Furthermore, studies have shown that laughter improves mood, boosts endorphins, and improves immunity.