You know the feeling, don't you? That sluggish heaviness that settles in when life feels overwhelming. No matter how much you try to water yourself with coffee or force productivity, the energy just isn't there. It's a reminder that, like plants, we need the right conditions to thrive. We're not machines—we need nurturing too.

Like plants, we too can experience a rejuvenation when we find the right conditions to thrive. This metaphor has felt particularly apt lately. Here in the UK, we've had about a month of no rain, which meant watering the plants became yet another daily task on my already long to-do list. I'd head out with the watering can and hosepipe every evening to keep them going in the lovely, but relentless sunshine. Through it all, I felt like those wilting plants desperately trying to keep up with life's demands. When the rain finally arrived, I can't tell you how grateful I was for that sweet relief of one less thing on my to-do list. Admittedly, after a couple of hours of rain, the Brit in me was already wishing for the sun to return!

Like plants, our energy needs regular care and attention to stay vibrant. When life runs dry for too long, we have to find ways to soak up what we need. Over the years, I've realised that energy isn't just about how much sleep you get or what you eat (although these certainly help). It's about the delicate interplay between your mind and body. When one is out of sync, energy drains away like water through a leaky bucket. But there's good news—we can easily patch those leaks. Today, I want to share the science of energy and some powerful ways to restore and sustain it naturally. Remember, even small daily changes can make a big difference in recharging your energy.

What is Energy, Really?

We often think of energy as something we either have or don't have, but it's more complex than that. At its core, energy is your body's ability to perform work—to move, think, and simply "be." Physically, it's fuelled by the food you eat and the oxygen you breathe. Mentally, it's about focus and resilience.

But here's the thing—not all activities cost the same amount of energy. I like to think of it as an energy budget. Like spending money, some things are affordable while others feel like splurges. A quiet afternoon reading a book might only cost a small amount of mental and physical energy, leaving you recharged afterwards. On the other hand, a full-on social weekend or a frantic day of back-to-back meetings might be the equivalent of spending your entire week's energy allowance in one go.

For example, think about running errands. The energy cost can feel steep if you're juggling the food shop, popping into the chemist, and sorting the school uniform before the next day. Contrast that with doing something restorative like a gentle Pilates class, which might give you a return on the energy you've "spent" by leaving you feeling renewed rather than depleted.

Even emotional activities carry energy costs. A heartfelt conversation with a friend can feel uplifting. At the same time, a difficult discussion with a boss or partner might drain your reserves entirely. Recognising these differences can help you plan your day better and avoid burning out. It's about balance, spending your energy wisely, and replenishing it when needed. Remember, understanding where your energy is going is the first step to taking control of it. Energy isn't infinite, and when we push past our limit repeatedly, we're left running on fumes or, worse, completely drained. The good news? You can make deliberate choices to recharge when needed.

Understanding where your energy is going is the first step to taking control of it. Energy isn't infinite, and when we push past our limit repeatedly, we're left running on fumes or, worse, completely drained. The good news? You can make deliberate choices to recharge when needed.

Three Practices to Recharge Your Energy Naturally

When my energy reserves run dangerously low, I turn to three powerful practices that make all the difference: Pilates, breathwork, and EFT (the Emotional Freedom Technique). These may seem simple, but they massively impact my ability to recharge.

1. Pilates for Physical and Mental Vitality

Pilates has been my go-to for rebuilding both strength and energy. Why? Because it's not just about movement; it's about mindful movement. The slow, deliberate exercises don't just tone your body; they wake it up. I always leave a session feeling lighter and more aligned, like someone has turned my inner light switch back on.

Try this simple Pilates move to get started: The Roll-Down.

Stand tall, take a deep breath, and slowly roll your spine forward one vertebra at a time until your hands dangle near your toes. Pause, breathe deeply, then slowly roll back up, re-stacking each vetebra of the spine, finishing by rolling your shoulders down and back to return to good posture. This move helps release tension and improves blood flow, giving you a little energy boost when you feel sluggish.

Come experience the benefits of Pilates in one of our Pilates classes taught at the Wellness Studio. 

2. Breathwork to Oxygenate and Calm

I'll never forget trying breathwork for the first time during a particularly stressful and anxious period. After a few rounds of purposeful, focused breathing, I didn't just feel calmer—I felt sharper and more awake. Breathwork isn't just about relaxation (though that's a bonus); it's a way to oxygenate your cells and reset your nervous system.

One easy technique is box breathing. Here's how you do it:

• Breathe in for a count of four.
• Hold for a count of four.
• Exhale for a count of four.
• Pause for a count of four. Repeat this cycle for a few minutes, and your body and mind will feel refreshed.

If you'd like to explore breathwork further, join Marie for our 4-week Breathwork Course starting Friday, June 6th, from 7–8 pm. The course will be followed by further sessions on June 13th,20th, and 27th. It's just £48 for the four-week course, including support between sessions to help you get the most out of it. Placed are limited, so please email me, and I will send you further details.

3. EFT to Release Emotional Drains

Our lack of energy is often not physical at all—it's emotional. Have you ever had a day when everything feels exhausting, even if you've done little? That's emotional depletion. EFT, or tapping, is a tool I've used time and again to clear those emotional blocks and restore my vitality.

Here's a quick way to try EFT:

1. Identify an emotion or issue that's weighing you down.
2. Use your fingertips to gently tap on specific points (email me if you'd like an illustration of the tapping points) while voicing how you feel. For example, "Even though I feel completely drained, I accept myself and how I feel."
3. Repeat the process while focusing on letting go of the negative emotion.

It sounds unusual, but trust me, it works. The combination of tapping and verbalising releases trapped emotions, making space for renewed energy.

Want to explore EFT with support? Join our Introduction to EFT Workshop at the wellness studio on Sunday, June 1st, from 2pm to 4 pm. The workshop is £49 and perfect for beginners and those curious to explore EFT further. Click HERE to learn more and to secure your place.

Crafting Your Recharge Plan

Recharging your energy isn't about overhauling your life overnight; it's about finding tiny moments of reprieve throughout your day. Here's how you might begin:

1. Morning Movement: Start your day with 5-10 minutes of Pilates or stretching to energise your body.
2. Midday Breather: When you feel the midday slump creeping in, take a few minutes to practise box breathing.
3. Evening Release: Use EFT to process any lingering stress or emotions before bed, ensuring a more restful night. Try journalling beforehand to identify the areas you need to tap about more easily.

Remember, this isn't about creating more tasks for yourself. It's about weaving energy-restoring practices into what you're already doing.

Final Thoughts

You don't have to chase energy like a dog chasing its tail. It's already within you, waiting to be unlocked and nurtured. Whether you're like that wilting plant desperate for cool water or just looking for a little boost, these practices can help you recharge in a gentle and sustainable way.

Until next time, cheering you on to wellness success

Katie x 

P.S. Are you Struggling to figure out where to start, or are you reading this after the events have taken place? Click HERE to read about upcoming events at The Wellness Studio in Timperley, Altrincham, or send me an email, and we can schedule a chat to discuss your needs further.