Dear Just be: Maybe its the rain and weather lately but I feel lethargic. Any suggestions of how to rejuventate myself?

It is amazing how the weather can sometimes effect our mood and energy levels. You can combat this lethargy with staying in motion-exercising. There is a simple movement called the Swimming Dragon from the Qigong tradition, which you can do in the privacy of your own home (no battling the weather outside required.) The practice is for rejuvenation and stretches out the entire body, working your spine, strengthening your back, adjusts the internal organs and can even help reduce weight.

The Swimming Dragon is practiced with gentle, slower, and deliberate movements, which in turn can help calm the mind, promote energy and balance. Additionally, this exercise increases metabolism and reduces appetite.

Follow these simple movements, outlined below, for 5-20 minutes - depending on your needs.

1. In a comfortable, quiet place stand with your feet together and ankles touching, or as close together as you can get them. Bring hands over your head, with palms together and fingers pointing up. Keep your palms together during this entire exercise.

2. Inhaling, push your waist out to the right side while keeping your head and upper torso straight. Simultaneously move your right elbow to the right, so that it rests at shoulder height.

3. Exhaling, push your waist out to the left side while keeping your head and upper torso straight. Simultaneously move your left elbow fully to the left at shoulder height.

4. Repeat this movement several times. Every time you move your waist to the right, bend your knees slightly more, lowering your entire body as you squat. Be sure to keep your upper torso and head straight.

5. With each right movement, move your hands lower, keeping your palms together and fingers pointing up. When your arms reach your chest, turn your fingers toward the ground and continue the movement.

6. When your arms reach your knees, you should be squatting.

7. Continue the movements, now rising with each right movement until you reach the standing position. When your arms reach your chest, switch the direction of your fingers so that they’re pointing up again.

Throughout this exercise, your hands should produce an S-shaped movement and your body should do a rhythmic belly dance. Remember to inhale on the rightward movement and exhale to the left. Only do this exercise on an empty stomach. Begin slowly and increase speed, warming up the whole body, but not to the point of perspiration.