So after a lot of hit and trial. I finally found that increasing the animation speeds by 20% seemed to make the combat a bit more engaging.
Plus added a new mechanic in which the player is able to block only for a limited time only until there is enough energy left. Once the energy runs out, it will be a stun lock for a few seconds leaving the player vulnerable. Hence be wise to use it.
Also, the energy bar can also be used to initiate better attacks that will do more damage but at the cost of the energy which will leave you to have less energy to block.

The recharge happens automatically however, you can't block or if you do, you can't recharge.