Depressed Energy & Fatigue

Physical and emotional fatigue can take a toll on the body and can be either the cause or the effect of other disturbances. Fatigue means lacking energy or strength and can be accompanied by:

• Drowsiness (sleepiness)
• Lethargy, Malaise or Tiredness
• Weakness (including muscular weakness)
• Lack of Motivation
• Depressive Moods
• Sleep Disturbances
• Appetite Changes
• Low Libido

Acupuncture: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), enhancing an individual's vital energy, nourishing the blood, and strengthening the spirit are core components of the therapeutic strategy. TCM philosophy considers symptoms of fatigue and exhaustion as originating from weakened organs. Chinese medicine employs an amalgamation of techniques to manage chronic fatigue. Utilizing a combination of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, moxibustion, and lifestyle changes (including dietary prescriptions, exercise, rest, and meditation) helps the body combat fatigue. Acupuncture, herbs and nutritional therapy act in synergy with the body to establish a lasting state of harmony.

Naturopathy: Nutritional deficiencies may contribute to depressed energy and fatigue. Correcting underlying deficiencies through a healthy diet is an essential component of treatment. Supporting the body with nutritional supplementation is vital, as the body utilizes more nutrients during times of stress. Furthermore, diet therapy can be used to strengthen the ailing immune system of individuals suffering from chronic or other types of fatigue. Certain diets, such as an elimination diet, may be prescribed to aid in identifying food sensitivities or intolerances that place an added burden on the immune system. Long term, this burden becomes extremely taxing on the body as a whole and manifests in generalized symptoms, such as depressed energy and fatigue. Tissue salts and homeopathics can be used to alleviate such symptoms and spur recovery in mild cases of fatigue. Herbs may also be used to enhance immunity and provide support to the body and mind.

Massage: With chronic or mild cases of fatigue, the deeply relaxing effects of a massage can help restore your energy and vitality. As circulation and lymphatic flow increase, ischemic areas are flushed with oxygen and other nutrients, and waste products are more effectively processed. Consequently, more energy is available to keep you healthy and revitalized. Specific techniques are designed to restore balance to the body’s vital energy. Studies show that massage therapy can help relieve anxiety and depression often associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. A study published in the Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome found that after ten days of massage therapy, patients with chronic fatigue experienced fewer somatic symptoms and less difficulty sleeping as cortisol levels decreased and dopamine levels increased.

Self Treatment Techniques: Like other symptoms, fatigue is a physical manifestation of an imbalance in the body’s systems. Hence, it becomes essential to bring awareness to one’s whole body by evaluating dietary patterns, genetic predispositions, sleep habits, posture, stress levels and other lifestyle components such as physical activity and overall sense of wellbeing.

Your body is a unique entity, thus your treatment should be tailored specifically to your needs. You should always seek the advice of your health care practitioner to guide you along the path of optimal wellness.

To regenerate your body, we recommend:

• Eat or snack every three hours to provide your body with adequate fuel.
• Reduce or eliminate stimulants such as caffeine and sugar, including artificial replacements. Stimulants provide short-term bursts of energy; however, long-term exposure to these substances depletes your body’s energy reserves and leaves you feeling more fatigued.
• Do something you love everyday!