Tag: healthy living

YOGA AND LIFESTYLE

In a first for East India, Visva Bharati varsity commences PG diploma course in yoga studies - Education Today News

Indeed , it is an astonishing fact that a yogic tradition , which is more than five thousand years old , has recently become a popular way of life . Presently , people consider that yoga is a significant means to achieve a healthy as well as a positive lifestyle . In fact , the power of yoga lies in its simplicity , flexibility and diversity . As a matter of fact , yoga helps in improving our flexibility , lowers our stress level and increases our confidence and finally contributes to a healthier lifestyle on the whole . There are various lifestyle diseases like obesity , diabetes , asthma , hypertension , back pain , migraine and depression which can be prevented and treated up to some extent with the help of certain yogic exercises .

Asanas As Preventive Measures

52,455 BEST Yoga Poses Male IMAGES, STOCK PHOTOS & VECTORS | Adobe Stock

According to Patanjali , asana means , “sthiram sukham aasanam “ i.e,. ” that position which is comfortable and steady ” . In Brahamanopanishad , “ To sit in a comfortable position or posture for everlasting period is called asana “. Asana is that state of body in which the body may be positioned easily . As a matter of fact , the ability to sit comfortably for an extended period of time in any position is called asana . In asanas , body is kept in various positions in such a way that the activities of organs and glands of body become more effective and eventually the health of mind and body is improved .

In fact , asana is a means through which physical and mental development is achieved . Prevention of diseases and delay in ageing are the desired effects that can be achieved through yogic exercises .

There are different types of asanas which include meditative asanas , relaxative asanas and corrective asanas . Regular practice of the above- mentioned asanas significantly affects various systems or organs of our body . Asanas can be used as preventive measures because they provide the following physiological benefits , which ultimately help us in avoiding various lifestyle diseases such as diabetes , obesity and cardiovascular diseases .

BALANCED DIET

Balanced Diet - Components, Types & Benefits - Safar Medical

No doubt that everyone wants to remain fit and healthy . Food and nutrition play a very vital role in our growth and development . These are helpful for maintaining good health . The requirement of nutrition is essential for every individual but it is indispensable for the individuals who actively participate in games and sports . With the help of appropriate nutrition , sportsperson can enhance their performance . Even some supplements are also required to provide proper nutrition to sportsperson.

Meaning of a Balance Diet

A balanced diet refers to the intake of edibles which can provide all the essential food constituents necessary for growth and maintenance of the body , in definite amount in which they are required by the body .A balanced diet means eating the right amount of foods from all food groups .

“A diet which consists of all the essential food constituents , viz., protiens , carbohydrates , fats , vitamins , minerals and water in correct proportion is called a balanced diet.”

In other words , ” Balanced diet is that diet which contains of various constituents of food in accurate and appropriate quantity and quality according to the requirement of an individual .”

A Balanced Diet – The Ultimate Guide - lyonsdenfitness

In fact , every individual does not require same type of diet . The diet differs from individual to individual . The following points sum up a balanced diet .

  1. A balanced diet must contain all the essential constituents in adequate amount
  2. There must be definite proportion between the different constituents of food .
  3. The food should be easily digestible .
  4. Cooking of food is necessary because it sterilizes foodstuff and makes it palatable and easily digestible.

NATIONAL DOCTORS DAY

July 1 is celebrated as ‘National Doctor’s Day by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). commemorating the iconic and internationally renowned medical practitioner, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy who served as a physician, a freedom fighter, an educationist, and a politician. Amidst the pandemic, while India is still battling with the deadly virus, our Frontline Warriors are too fighting to save our life, and one of those heroes are our doctors. There’s no better day than today, National Doctor’s day to express our gratitude for our medical saviours. This pandemic has made us realize how important doctors are for a country. everyone who has survived corona is due to these frontline warriors who saved lives without even worrying for their own lives and their families.

This day was first celebrated in 1991 to honour the chief minister of Bengal, dr BC Roy. He played a great role in establishing medical institutions like Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital, Victoria Institution (college), Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital and the Chittaranjan Seva Sadan for women and children. He was also referred to as the first medical consultant in the subcontinent of India who was more successful and dedicated than his contemporaries in several fields by British Medical journal.

We celebrated this day to express our gratitude towards all the doctors who work endlessly to keep our country and families healthy.

Minimalism

What is Minimalism?

Minimalism is defined as a design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect. Minimalism had its origins in the arts—with the artwork featuring simple lines, only a few colors, and careful placement of those lines and colors. More recently, it has become representative of a lifestyle that aims to remove clutter from all facets of life. 

Minimalism is all about owning only what adds value and meaning to your life (as well as the lives of the people you care about) and removing the rest. It’s about removing the clutter and using your time and energy for the things that remain. We only have a certain amount of energy, time, and space in our lives. In order to make the most of it, we must be intentional about how we’re living each day.

There are many different approaches to minimalism, but it’s really just a tool to help you prioritize what’s important in your life.

Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist offers this definition: “Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things that bring you joy and the removal of those that do not.” It might be called simple living, tiny living, intentional living, and a myriad of other things—but there is at least one common thread: the idea of curating the things we own to best reflect our priorities and vision for our lives.

If the idea of minimalism sounds intimidating to you or if you’ve seen some images and thought, “that’s a nice idea, but I’d never want to live like that,” don’t worry. You can benefit from applying minimalism in your life whether you live in a tiny home, suburban house, or a mansion. You can use minimalism as a guiding philosophy and customize based on what works best for you.

Common Misconceptions of Minimalism

Contrary to what some people think, there aren’t any actual rules to minimalism. There’s no official board of minimalism to determine whether or not you’re doing minimalism right. Minimalism truly looks different for everyone.

You don’t have to own below a certain number of items. You can still have nice things, and no, you don’t need to get rid of your favorite collection—whether it’s books, shoes, or music. Minimalism doesn’t have to look like white-walled, modern and sparse homes you’ve probably seen in magazines and videos, a common minimalism mistake. Minimalism is also not a one and done project. It is a a continual practice to ensure everything in our lives is working for us in our vision, not against us. Its used over the years to make substantial changes in our careers, home, lifestyle, buying behaviors, etc.

Everyone can benefit from applying the principles of minimalism to their lives. It’s a process of removing distractions and things that no longer add value to our lives.

Why Minimalism Is An Effective Tool For Living An Intentional Life?

In the end, minimalism is less about owning fewer items and more about actively making choices on what kind of things truly matter to you.

We exist in a society that creates false value on owning more stuff and having no time to use them much. The constant pursuit of bigger and better is an endless cycle. There will always be a nicer car to buy, a bigger boat, a larger home, and or a faster private jet. Did you know that there’s a website for billionaires to shop? Yeah. It never ends.

It may seem like an overwhelming challenge at first, but as you untangle the life you built around owning more things, you’ll find the stress disappearing and the world starting to slow down. Those choices you make will begin to build a muscle that will fundamentally change the way you live your life.

OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER(OCD)

Diagram chart of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder .

Obsessive compulsive disorder is a mental health disorder that affects people of all ages and walks of life . It occurs when an individual gets caught in a cycle of obsessions and compulsions . It can be said that person with OCD are plagued by constant thoughts of fears that cause them to perform rituals or routines . The disturbing thoughts are called obsessions and rituals are called compulsions .

In simple words , OCD is a type of mental of disorder that causes repeated unwanted thoughts . To get rid of the unwanted thoughts , he/she performs the same task/activity again and again . For example, a person may fear that everything he/she touches has germs on it . So , to get rid of that fear he/she washes his/her hands again and again . Persons suffering from OCD might understand that their obsessions are unreasonable , but trying to stop or ignore them causes anxiety and stress . There are some symptoms of OCD , which may range from mild to severe . Some of the obsession and compulsions are mentioned below.

Main obsessions

  • A fear of harm to yourself or loved one .
  • A fear of contamination by germs .
  • A forceful or driving need to perform things perfectly or correctly .
  • Having excessive doubt on any individual .
  • A fear of being embarrassed .
  • A fear of getting dirty .
  • A fear of making mistakes.

Main compulsions

  • Repeating things or always moving items to keep them in exact order .
  • Bathing or washing hands several times.
  • Checking things over and over again.
  • Repeating specific words.
  • Hoarding .
  • Constant praying.

Causes of OCD

The exact cause of obsessive compulsive disorder is still unknown . Research studies suggest that there may be a problem with the way one part of the brain sends information to another part . Serotonin is the chemical in the brain that sends messages from one part to another . Insufficiency of serotonin may help in causing OCD . Stress and anxiety do not cause OCD but they may worsen the symptoms of OCD.

Recent studies have indicated that there may be considerable genetic basis for OCD. Depression is also thought to be the cause of OCD but the experts’ opinion is split .

POST COVID PHASE

“Courage above all is the first quality, by a warrior” – Karl Von Clause

Kudos to you for going through the pain and struggles caused by the covid virus and completing the quarantine period. Yes, that’s a brilliant effort from your side. The virus would have lost its power and is of no harm anymore. But the effects caused by the virus in the past 2 weeks would persist in your body for quite a period. That may sound hard to believe, but it’s the ground reality. No worries, a warrior is prone to struggles and he might easily overcome them,

Common effects post covid:

  • Tiredness: Most people feel tired for two to three weeks post covid. They might feel that they do not have the same energy to do their works or might feel pain while walking even for a shorter distance.
  • Weight loss: If you are prone to diarrhea, vomit, and high fever for more than one day, you might surely suffer from this. You might have shed two to three kilograms of weight. Do not freak out by this. Think in an alternative way. You have reduced your wait without the efforts you would usually put on a gym.
  • Hairfall: Yeah you have heard it right. Hairfall is more common in the post covid phase. This will be happening for two weeks.
  • Shortness of breath:  will be the for a long time. In case if you have used oxygen support during the treatment, then it would take time for your lungs to breathe normally. It’s natural that if our body metabolism is affected by an external factor, it would have an edge off in it. 

Do’s and Dont’s post covid:

  • Although you might have been bored sitting in one place with mere physical activity in the past weeks, you must not actively involve in physical activities which involve huge efforts. Avoid lifting heavy weights, staying up late, and watching a digital screen for a long time.  
  • You might have done a regular exercise or a walk of over three kilometers of cycling for an hour daily. Do not expect the same energy at the initial phase. Try to start with a walk of half a kilometer and increase the distance day by day. 
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Practice simple breathing exercises which you could find on youtube to strengthen your lungs. It is better to practice them early in the morning. Sunlight might shower you with additional benefits.
  • Plan a diet of protein-rich foods. If you feel that you are not able to eat properly due to throat pain, eat in bits. Vegetable salads, fresh juices, mushrooms, nuts, milk, eggs would help you to regain your stamina. 
  • Avoid going out frequently for a month. Even if you have a necessity, follow all the safety precautions. 
  • Reduce talking over phones for more than an hour. You will feel shortness of breath.

All the effects will gradually fade away after a month and you start to  feel better, Have a great recovering phase ahead. 

7 Best Juices For Weight Loss!

(By Bhoomika Saini)

Drinking fresh juice is a great way to load up on your nutrients which aid in revving up metabolism. This way you’ll be able to burn more calories thus, promoting your weight loss goals. Here are some tasty juices that will boost up your immune system.

Amla juice

To manage weight, it is often suggested to drink Amla juice on an empty stomach. Add a drop of honey to keep you active throughout the day.

Bottle gourd juice

A summer superfood, it is well a known vegetable to cut down flab. It contains less calories with no fat and also keeps your body cool.

Pomegranate juice

It is good for your skin as well as promotes weight loss. It contains compounds that helps to burn fat and boosts metabolism.

Orange Juice

It is considered as a negative calorie fruit. It contains fewer calories than what your body requires to burn it. Simply, you burn more than you drink.

Cabbage juice

It helps in relieving a lot of stomach problems like indigestion and bloating and clears up your digestive tract. This juice also aids your weight loss process.

Watermelon Juice

This juicy fruit provides 30 calories per 100 grams and keeps you hydrated. It is rich in amino acid arginine which helps in weight loss.

Bitter gourd Juice

Drinking it daily stimulates the liver to secrete bile acids which are required for metabolizing fat. Moreover, this juice is very low in calories.

You don't have to eat less, you just have to eat right!

Benefits of the Evergreen Neem

(By Bhoomika Saini)

This popular medicinal plant Neem, is famous for its healing properties. Neem, also known as Indian Lilac is commonly known for its antiseptic, anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains great sources of fatty acids, minerals and vitamins that has some medicinal properties that could be beneficial for you in many ways.

Either you have skin problems, hair problems or any other, Neem is here for the rescue. Let’s take a glance at the great benefits of this evergreen herb that could provide you many benefits.

Benefits of neem for skin:

1.Soothes irritated skin

Neem has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may pacify irritated skin. With the advantage of getting a cooling effect on the skin, neem is beneficial for treating skin sensitivity. Additionally, neem features a soothing effect on dehydrated or dry skin.

2. Fight signs of ageing

Neem leaves are stuffed with antioxidants, moisturizing triglycerides and vitamin E, which makes it an ideal anti-ageing treatment. They lower wrinkles, fines lines and dark spots and make your skin look firm and toned.

3. Treats acne

The antibacterial properties of neem fight acne-causing bacteria, which helps in the treatment and prevention of acne. Also, it’s extremely useful in controlling oil production in the skin.

4. Tackles blackheads and whiteheads

Neem on your face is helpful to say goodbye to whiteheads and blackheads when used regularly. It pulls back large pores and works as an exfoliating agent to pull out impurities and tighten pores.

Benefits of neem for hair:

1. Relieves itchy scalp

Neem has antifungal properties that may help within the treatment of dandruff. The effective use of neem to your hair can relieve the itchiness, inflammation, and irritation associated with dandruff.

2. Intensify hair growth

The regenerative properties of neem help in reducing hair fall. Gently, massaging your scalp with neem oil can increase the blood circulation in the scalp and help in enhancing the speed of hair growth.

3. Avert premature greying of hair

Neem is rich in antioxidants that curb the action of free radicals that cause premature greying of hair. Regular usage of neem powder or neem oil for the same is also useful.

4. Conditions under nourished hair

Neem contains a significant ingredient called fatty acid which help the scalp to nourish thereby keeping the hair smooth.

So, to get those clear skin goals or to get those luscious hair locks, Neem is all you need.

Yoga- An Ancient Legacy

‘Yoga’ is performed to channelize the energies of body and mind in one direction. Yoga is often misconceptualized by people as mere asanas(postures). But actually, it is a holistic health approach with the harmonization of body and mind with nature, with an essence of spirituality. It is the awakening of conscience with the realization of one’s oneness with the universe.

‘Yoga’ derives its meaning from the Indian classical language of ‘Sanskrit’, which means “union” or “to yoke or join”. ‘Yoga’ has its roots grown around 5000 years ago, long before any belief system started budding. It is believed as an ‘immortal cultural product’ of the Indus Saraswati Valley Civilization- dating back to 2700 B.C. Fossil remains with figures performing Yoga Sadhana indicate the presence of yoga in ancient India.
Yoga practices are also mentioned in the ancient literature like- Vedas, Upanishads, Smritis, teachings of Buddhism, Jainism, Panini, Epics, Puranas, and more. The existence of yoga in ancient India can also be marked by the presence of yoga shlokas in ‘Bhagwat Geeta’, like- Yujuate arena it yoga; meaning “yoga is that which joins”. Yoga joins the individual self with the universal self.

June 21 marks the International Day of Yoga. Every year since 2015, the government of India organizes mega yoga events on this day across the country. Yoga is not only an ancient Indian culture but also a tourist attraction from abroad. The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, in New Delhi has students from parts of India and abroad.
In today’s time where everyone is a sufferer of work pressure and stress, yoga is a great escape. It provides calmness and relaxation to the mind and body. Especially the students can benefit a lot as yoga is said to improve IQ and memory.

The harmony between the body, mind, and soul is what yoga aims at, for a better life experience. It soothes the mind and heals the body. Increases physical flexibility and strength and increases concentration and mental stability, helping you create a calm environment for yourself that shields you from the chaotic and stressful life of today.
In today’s time, more people have become conscious about their physic and physical strength. More people tend to exercise. Many people opt for gyms to exercise than doing yoga at home, without the need for any complex and expensive equipment.

Many people from abroad come here to India to learn and practice yoga. In fact, in this pandemic Americans started online yoga classes to keep people healthy and stress-free. The people there responded enthusiastically to the initiative.

Over the years, yoga has gained international recognition. Especially in this time of pandemic where it is advised to stay indoors, yoga is the best way to stay physically as well as mentally healthy. It is easy as well convenient to perform yoga inside the boundaries of your home, without any load on your pockets to buy any expensive equipment.
Simple breathing techniques contribute a lot to your health. However, it is advised to consult your doctor before performing any yogasnas if you have any underlying health conditions such as asthma, hypertension, or hypotension.