Meditation is often perceived as a tranquil practice which leads the practitioner into a near sleep-like state. This perception is quite far away from the actual reality; in meditation one might not be outwardly moving, but state of great awareness is there. In this state of alertness it is possible to infuse great energy into your being which will invigorate and refresh you.
1. Breathing
You can begin by trying a simple breathing technique. Observe your breath for a few minutes, watching how it gradually gets slower, calmer and deeper. Then after a while when you breathe in, imagine that you are breathing in energy from the universe into your system, and you are breathing out any lethargy and sluggishness you might have. This might take some imagination at first, but if you pursue the practice with determination, after a few minutes you will be able to feel the reality as you feel more revitalized and energized.
2. Mantras
One great way of invoking the energy you need is by using mantras. With time and usage certain words have taken on the very qualities they describe and repeating them really helps generate that quality inside ourselves. The word 'dynamism' is a very powerful example - when we repeat it with great feeling and intensity, we can feel that we ourselves are turning into a human dynamo. In India and Tibet the mantra 'Aum' (or Om as it is sometimes called) has been used for thousands of years - this mantra embodies the energy of the Universe, so you can imagine that repeating it can be quite powerful! You can repeat this mantra first thing in the morning to give you new energy for the challenges ahead. If you need a quick burst of energy during the day you can also rapidly repeat mantras to yourself.
3. Prananyama
The ancient yogic science of pranayama has also been used for thousand of years as an energizing source. One variant of a pranayama technique involves alternate breathing through the nostril. Placing your thimb against your right nostril so that it is closed, you breathe in through your left nostril whilst saying the mantra 'Aum'. Then using your index finger and thumb, close both nostrils and repeat the mantra 'Aum' four times. Then take your thumb off your right nostril and breathe out whilst saying 'Aum' once, keeping the left nostril closed. If done properly this can generate a tremendous amount of energy; it is actually recommended that beginners do not do this too often as they might not be prepared for the amount of energy they receive.