How to Restore Your Energy After Illness or Stress – A Chinese Medicine Perspective
I’m Dr. Shiroko Sokitch, integrative physician, owner of Heart to Heart Medical Center, and author of Healing When It Seems Impossible: Seven Keys to Defy the Odds. Today, I want to talk about something that so many of us experience—feeling low energy, especially after a tough flu season or during stressful times.
Even with all the supplements and support I take, I recently went through a lingering cough that lasted for weeks. And I know I’m not alone. So many people have shared the same struggle—exhaustion, slow recovery, and that dragging feeling even after the worst of the illness is over.
The Chinese Medicine Take on Fatigue
In Chinese medicine, illness—especially a virus—can deplete your energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”). If not supported properly, your recovery can be drawn out. The goal is to restore your Qi so you can return to living your life fully.
Qi is the vital energy that flows through your body along specific pathways called meridians. When your Qi is low or blocked, you feel tired, sluggish, or even emotionally off-balance.
There’s also a deeper source of energy located in your lower abdomen called the Dan Tian—our “sea of Qi.” This is your life force energy, and nurturing it is key to healing and rejuvenation.
Acupressure Techniques to Build Your Qi
Here are a few simple techniques you can do daily to start rebuilding your energy:
1. Massage Below the Belly Button
- Place your hands about 2 inches below your belly button.
- Massage in a clockwise circular motion, starting from the right side.
- Do this in odd numbers—start with 7 circles, or go up to 49 (7 x 7) for a deeper effect.
- This area is known as the sea of Qi—massaging here helps activate your core energy.
2. Support Your Low Back
- There’s a corresponding energy point on your lower back, around lumbar vertebra 4 (L4).
- Place one hand on your lower back and the other below your belly.
- Massage gently while breathing deeply.
- Visualize energy flowing up from the Earth as you inhale, and back down into the Earth as you exhale.
3. Remember to Breathe
It sounds simple, but many of us forget to breathe deeply throughout the day—especially when we’re focused. Make your breath intentional. Visualize it circulating your energy and recharging your system.
Move Gently to Build Energy
If you’re low on energy, over exercising can actually make things worse. Instead, try:
- Restorative yoga
- Gentle yoga
- Qigong
- Tai Chi
These gentle, flowing movements help circulate and build energy rather than deplete it.
Fuel Your Body with the Right Foods
What you eat—and when you eat it—matters!
Start Your Day with Protein
- Eating high-quality protein within an hour of waking helps stabilize blood sugar and sustain energy throughout the day.
- Skip the muffin and coffee combo—instead, opt for:
- Eggs
- A protein shake
- A piece of chicken
- My personal favorite: a homemade hot chocolate drink with collagen, monk fruit sweetener, and alternative milk.
Eat Clean
- Stick to whole, nourishing foods: lots of veggies, clean proteins, and foods you cook yourself.
- Cut back on processed foods and sugar which can cause energy crashes.
Final Thoughts
To recap, here’s your energy restoration toolkit:
- Daily acupressure on your lower belly and back
- Deep, mindful breathing
- Gentle movement practices
- Protein-rich breakfast
- Clean, nourishing meals
And above all, listen to your body. Healing takes time, but with the right support, you can bounce back with renewed vitality.
🎥 Want to watch the full video?
Catch the entire session with all the tips and demos on my YouTube channel:
👉Watch full video here: Acupressure Building for Energy – Relieve Fatigue & Reclaim Vitality
Ask me anything!
Let me know if you have any questions that I can help you with. I’m here for you during these unpredictable times and have set up a telemedicine service to get you the help you most need. Call my office at: 707.524.9640
You can also head over to my YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook and leave a comment or message me about your questions or concerns! I love hearing from you.
With all my love,
Shiroko Sokitch
