Nurture Yourself
Acting from your heart and nourishing yourself boost your wellspring of joy. Women in particular need to consciously refuel their inner resources, say experts. "There's a tendency for women to give until there's nothing left. That's why it's essential to make time for things that nurture you," says Simon. Begin with this advice.

Get a Relaxing Massage
You no longer need to justify splurging on that decadent spa treatment. "Gentle, loving touch does wonders," says Lonsdorf. Remind yourself that you're simply investing in your ojas, and in doing so are replenishing the very sap that keeps you vital.

Speak "the Sweet Truth"
Vedic literature says that telling the truth generates ojas. You don't need to inform your friend that her hair's a disaster, or go on and on about your husband's bad breath. What we're looking for here is "sweet truth," says Lonsdorf -- in other words, tactful, kind, loving honesty. "We need to cultivate tenderness." Being genuine with people will free up internal space that might otherwise be cluttered with guilt and anxiety.

Let Go of Grudges
Whether it's the guy who cut you off in traffic this morning or the mother who failed you as a kid, let it go. Resentment and stored-up rage burn ojas and cloud the mind. "Giving energy to anger destroys your health and happiness," says Lonsdorf. Practice forgiveness whenever possible; in the heat of the moment, take some deep breaths until the anger cools, then speak.

Connect with Nature
Think of the times in your life when you've felt most alive. Chances are at least a few of those memories include an ocean, forest, or mountain as their backdrop. "The body needs to plug into nature for rejuvenation," says Mehta. You don't need to sell your city apartment and head for the hills, necessarily, but look for simple ways to stay in touch with the natural world. Hike on the weekends, plan a family camping trip, or spend time in the garden.

Follow Your Passion
Whether it's through meditation, politics, religion, yoga, or art, it's important to transcend your personal sphere. "Some people get there through charity or devoting themselves to learning, others practice Transcendental Meditation. Whatever connects you with something greater than yourself is good for your ojas," says Lonsdorf.

Take a Long, Luxurious Bath
Sure, you could clean out the fridge or weed the garden, but taking time to unwind has major benefits. Don't underestimate the power of simple, sumptuous pleasures: They're essential. "Ojas is our spark of life -- it contains everything we truly want," says McIntyre. If taking care of ourselves guards that precious spark, isn't it worth making an effort to slow down?