Waters Of India
Prasenjit Chowdhury
It is well documented that in 1978, Morarji Desai, then prime minister, spoke at length on CBS 60 Minutes explaining how urine therapy was the perfect medical solution for the millions of Indians unable to afford medical treatment. He claimed drinking his own urine cured his piles. Earlier this year, the RSSs cow protection department invented a new urine-based soft drink it hoped would promote its health-giving properties to a wider market. It was about to be marketed late this year. But with the poll prospects of the NDA drowning in the Ganges, the idea of such a funky drink has gone whiffy in the summer heat. Wikipedia tells us that in Roman times, there was a tradition among the Gauls to use urine to whiten teeth and that in China, the urine of young boys was regarded as a curative. The French customarily soaked stockings in urine and wrapped them around their necks in order to cure strep throat. A religious Sanskrit text in India called the Dhaamara Tantra under the heading of Shivaambu kalpa vidhi is known to contain 107 stanzas on the virtues of urine as a medicament.
We all came upon this earth nourished by the amniotic fluid that bathes the human foetus, of which urine is the main component, in our mothers womb. But, besides inducing a scatological distaste, the very idea of using ones urine as drinkable water must make everybody puke. The idea cant be scoffed at though, as late last year a urine processor was delivered by NASA to allow astronauts to live on the international space station via the space shuttle Endeavour. This equipment converts urine and sweat into drinkable water. Samples of the processed urine, sweat and condensation were to be brought back to earth and to be tested, so that the purified water could be made of use later. Water is such a precious commodity that one cant help thinking about how, back home, we dont care a hoot about making water in public. For India, with the help of the new-fangled urine processor , water conservation has immense possibility. How many gallons of purified water could we recycle had this fabulous contraption been imported or indigenised in India, which, detractors say, happens to be the largest public lavatory in South Asia And for those who earn their living by the sweat of their brow, not a drop of their labour, literally, could have been lost.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
10 superfoods for shedding weight
10 superfoods for shedding weight (Getty Images)
It's time for a new slim-down funda: Eat more to weigh less. Eating the right foods help you shed weight by increasing your calorie burn and cutting down food cravings.
1. Steak : Contrary to popular perception, eating a beef stake may help you drop weight. In a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, women on a diet that included red meat lost more weight than those eating equal calories but little beef. The protein in steak helps you retain muscle mass during weight loss.
2. Eggs : Dig in to eggs, yolks and all: Eggs do not harm your heart, they can help you trim inches. Women on a low-calorie diet who ate an egg with toast and jelly each morning lost twice as much weight as those who had a bagel breakfast with the same number of calories but no eggs, a study from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge reports. Egg protein is filling, so you eat less later in the day.
3. Oats : "Oatmeal has the highest satiety ranking of any food," Grotto says. Unlike many other carbohydrates, oats—even the instant kind—digest slowly, so they have little impact on your blood sugar."
4. Lentils : Lentils are a great tummy flattener. "They're high in protein and soluble fibre, two nutrients that stabilise blood sugar levels," says Tanya Zuckerbrot, R.D., author of The F-Factor Diet (Putnam Adult). Eating them helps prevent insulin spikes that cause your body to create excess fat, especially in the abdominal area."
5. Apples : An apple a day can keep weight gain at bay, finds a study from Penn State University at University Park. People who chomped an apple before a pasta meal ate fewer calories overall than those who had a different snack. Apples are high in fibre—4 to 5 grams each—which makes them filling. Plus, the antioxidants in apples may help prevent metabolic syndrome, a condition marked by excess belly fat or an "apple shape."
6. Chiles : A great reason to spice up your meals: You'll increase your metabolism. A compound in chiles called capsaicin has a thermogenic effect, meaning it causes the body to burn extra calories for 20 minutes after you eat the chiles. Plus, "you can't gulp down spicy food. Eating slowly gives your brain time to register that your stomach is full, so you won't overeat.
7. Yogurt : Dietitians often refer to plain yogurt as the perfect food. With its trifecta of carbs, protein and fat, it can stave off hunger by keeping blood sugar levels steady. In a study from the University of Tennessee, people on a low-calorie diet that included yogurt lost 61 per cent more fat overall and 81 per cent more belly fat than those on a similar plan but without yogurt.
8. Parmesan : Women who had one serving of whole milk or cheese daily were less likely to gain weight over time, a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds. Lowfat-dairy fans didn't experience the same benefit. Whole dairy may have more conjugated linoleic acid, which might help your body burn fat.
9. Avocado : Don't let the fat content of an avocado (29 grams) scare you—that's what makes it a top weight loss food. The heart-healthy monounsaturated fat it contains increases satiety.
10. Olive oil : Like avocados, olive oil has healthy fat that increases satiety, taming your appetite. But that's hardly its only slimming feature. Research shows it has anti-inflammatory properties.
1. Steak : Contrary to popular perception, eating a beef stake may help you drop weight. In a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, women on a diet that included red meat lost more weight than those eating equal calories but little beef. The protein in steak helps you retain muscle mass during weight loss.
2. Eggs : Dig in to eggs, yolks and all: Eggs do not harm your heart, they can help you trim inches. Women on a low-calorie diet who ate an egg with toast and jelly each morning lost twice as much weight as those who had a bagel breakfast with the same number of calories but no eggs, a study from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge reports. Egg protein is filling, so you eat less later in the day.
3. Oats : "Oatmeal has the highest satiety ranking of any food," Grotto says. Unlike many other carbohydrates, oats—even the instant kind—digest slowly, so they have little impact on your blood sugar."
4. Lentils : Lentils are a great tummy flattener. "They're high in protein and soluble fibre, two nutrients that stabilise blood sugar levels," says Tanya Zuckerbrot, R.D., author of The F-Factor Diet (Putnam Adult). Eating them helps prevent insulin spikes that cause your body to create excess fat, especially in the abdominal area."
5. Apples : An apple a day can keep weight gain at bay, finds a study from Penn State University at University Park. People who chomped an apple before a pasta meal ate fewer calories overall than those who had a different snack. Apples are high in fibre—4 to 5 grams each—which makes them filling. Plus, the antioxidants in apples may help prevent metabolic syndrome, a condition marked by excess belly fat or an "apple shape."
6. Chiles : A great reason to spice up your meals: You'll increase your metabolism. A compound in chiles called capsaicin has a thermogenic effect, meaning it causes the body to burn extra calories for 20 minutes after you eat the chiles. Plus, "you can't gulp down spicy food. Eating slowly gives your brain time to register that your stomach is full, so you won't overeat.
7. Yogurt : Dietitians often refer to plain yogurt as the perfect food. With its trifecta of carbs, protein and fat, it can stave off hunger by keeping blood sugar levels steady. In a study from the University of Tennessee, people on a low-calorie diet that included yogurt lost 61 per cent more fat overall and 81 per cent more belly fat than those on a similar plan but without yogurt.
8. Parmesan : Women who had one serving of whole milk or cheese daily were less likely to gain weight over time, a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds. Lowfat-dairy fans didn't experience the same benefit. Whole dairy may have more conjugated linoleic acid, which might help your body burn fat.
9. Avocado : Don't let the fat content of an avocado (29 grams) scare you—that's what makes it a top weight loss food. The heart-healthy monounsaturated fat it contains increases satiety.
10. Olive oil : Like avocados, olive oil has healthy fat that increases satiety, taming your appetite. But that's hardly its only slimming feature. Research shows it has anti-inflammatory properties.
Choose your own workout
Choose your own workout
Yoga is a fantastic way to improve suppleness, strength and de-stress the mind. Use the following information to select the best option suited to your body needs, suggests Namita Jain
Confused about which type of exercise is right for you This exercise directory tells you what to expect from different workout trends.
Spinning
Burns fat
Builds aerobic stamina A spinning class gives your heart and lungs an intense workout while also building strength in the legs. It is an excellent for fat burning. But you do need to feel confident on a bike. The instructor takes you through hill climbs, sprint races, time trials and group races.
Step/floor aerobics
Burns fat
Builds stamina This workout improves cardiovascular stamina and burns fat. Hand and leg coordination is required.
Boot camp
Burns fat Builds muscle Tones the body Builds aerobic strength This workout is derived from the tough physical training of the army. This workout involves squat thrusts, sit-ups , sprinting and other intense exercises.
Kick-boxing
Burns fat and builds muscle Builds aerobic stamina Kickboxing involves kicking and punching moves. This exercise needs great coordination and power to keep up with the fast changing drills and routines. As the routine picks up speed, the heart rate rises and workout becomes cardiovascular.
Yoga/pilates/tai chi
Increases flexibility
Tones muscles
Is therapeutic Yoga is a fantastic way to improve suppleness and destress the mind. Pilates concentrates on developing strong stomach and back muscles. Tai chi is almost like a meditative exercise form. In Chinese philosophy, Chi is the energy force that gives the body vitality
Aqua-aerobics
Burns fat
Builds aerobic stamina
Tones muscle
Increases flexibility The resistance of water makes this workout effective. The body is lighter in water so there is less stress on joints. The aerobics involves dynamic movements against the water to increase the heart rate. Floats and paddle are added to increase resistance.
Yoga is a fantastic way to improve suppleness, strength and de-stress the mind. Use the following information to select the best option suited to your body needs, suggests Namita Jain
Confused about which type of exercise is right for you This exercise directory tells you what to expect from different workout trends.
Spinning
Burns fat
Builds aerobic stamina A spinning class gives your heart and lungs an intense workout while also building strength in the legs. It is an excellent for fat burning. But you do need to feel confident on a bike. The instructor takes you through hill climbs, sprint races, time trials and group races.
Step/floor aerobics
Burns fat
Builds stamina This workout improves cardiovascular stamina and burns fat. Hand and leg coordination is required.
Boot camp
Burns fat Builds muscle Tones the body Builds aerobic strength This workout is derived from the tough physical training of the army. This workout involves squat thrusts, sit-ups , sprinting and other intense exercises.
Kick-boxing
Burns fat and builds muscle Builds aerobic stamina Kickboxing involves kicking and punching moves. This exercise needs great coordination and power to keep up with the fast changing drills and routines. As the routine picks up speed, the heart rate rises and workout becomes cardiovascular.
Yoga/pilates/tai chi
Increases flexibility
Tones muscles
Is therapeutic Yoga is a fantastic way to improve suppleness and destress the mind. Pilates concentrates on developing strong stomach and back muscles. Tai chi is almost like a meditative exercise form. In Chinese philosophy, Chi is the energy force that gives the body vitality
Aqua-aerobics
Burns fat
Builds aerobic stamina
Tones muscle
Increases flexibility The resistance of water makes this workout effective. The body is lighter in water so there is less stress on joints. The aerobics involves dynamic movements against the water to increase the heart rate. Floats and paddle are added to increase resistance.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Beat fatigue and feel fresh
[ 
Tips to beat fatigue and feel fresh (Getty Images)
Fatigue is a common fall-out of urban living. If you are also feeling bogged down with this ugly consequence of modern and busy lifestyle, we bring expert advice to help you beat fatigue and feel fresh...
Music director Pritam has been so fatigued lately, that he had to take time out and go to Kolkata. Such has been the pressure on the composer that his smoking habit spiralled out of control and he’s been advised a prolonged holiday.
If you thought stress was bad, meet its extreme cousin – fatigue.
WHAT’S FATIGUE?
“Fatigue is another word for extreme exhaustion of both mental and physical strength,” says psycho-therapist Salma Prabhu. “You feel you can’t...
- go on or even talk to anyone,
- short breaks don’t help and
- you need to take a longer break to relax.”
Mental fatigue is caused by any prolonged activity along with high level of stress and emotions. It’s seen among individuals who work on tight deadlines for long duration and carry out tasks that require continuous attention and effort. It results in mistakes, affects decision making skills and drops performance drastically. One can prevent fatigue by defining limits and sticking to them. If you know the physical and mental threshold of work is say, eight hours, and include music, a walk or reading, then fatigue will rarely set in. People who exercise regularly, meditate, practice yoga and pranayam hardly experience fatigue. Many offices have soft music in the background, gym or cafeteria, all of which help alleviate stress.
SURE-FIRE CURES
Do this once a week
- get a massage & listen to soothing music
- eat light and go for a brisk walk to pump up blood circulation.
- avoid phone calls.
Scent for help
- Cut open, peel or deeply smell citrus fruits such as lemon, orange or lime between tasks.
- Carry rosemary, lavender, tulsi or lemon grass in cloth sachets or crush them and inhale deeply.
- Dab eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief, or crush leaves by hand and inhale.
- Keep a bunch of jasmine, desi roses and champa near your workspace.
Music director Pritam has been so fatigued lately, that he had to take time out and go to Kolkata. Such has been the pressure on the composer that his smoking habit spiralled out of control and he’s been advised a prolonged holiday.
If you thought stress was bad, meet its extreme cousin – fatigue.
WHAT’S FATIGUE?
“Fatigue is another word for extreme exhaustion of both mental and physical strength,” says psycho-therapist Salma Prabhu. “You feel you can’t...
- go on or even talk to anyone,
- short breaks don’t help and
- you need to take a longer break to relax.”
Mental fatigue is caused by any prolonged activity along with high level of stress and emotions. It’s seen among individuals who work on tight deadlines for long duration and carry out tasks that require continuous attention and effort. It results in mistakes, affects decision making skills and drops performance drastically. One can prevent fatigue by defining limits and sticking to them. If you know the physical and mental threshold of work is say, eight hours, and include music, a walk or reading, then fatigue will rarely set in. People who exercise regularly, meditate, practice yoga and pranayam hardly experience fatigue. Many offices have soft music in the background, gym or cafeteria, all of which help alleviate stress.
SURE-FIRE CURES
Do this once a week
- get a massage & listen to soothing music
- eat light and go for a brisk walk to pump up blood circulation.
- avoid phone calls.
Scent for help
- Cut open, peel or deeply smell citrus fruits such as lemon, orange or lime between tasks.
- Carry rosemary, lavender, tulsi or lemon grass in cloth sachets or crush them and inhale deeply.
- Dab eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief, or crush leaves by hand and inhale.
- Keep a bunch of jasmine, desi roses and champa near your workspace.
YOGA TO THE RESCUE
YOGA TO THE RESCUE
Is the daily routine of juggling a busy day at work and a demanding family getting to you Feeling exhausted Body aching This could help...
MITALI PAREKH
Yoga can relax your mind and body, ease stiff joints and muscles and make you feel good. It can also tone up your body and help you look great. Yoga trainer Yogesh Chavan prescribes the following asanas to handle everyday pressures on the body...
JALANDHAR SHUDDHI KRIYA
Under pressure, lactic acid accumulates around our neck. Exercising it frees up the nervous system since all the nerves branch out from the base of the neck.
Rotate your neck clockwise and then anti-clockwise . Sit cross-legged on the floor. Drop the neck forward , chin should touch the chest, roll your face to your left, then drop your head back, roll to the right and come back to the starting position. Repeat in anticlockwise . Repeat five to six times in each direction.
To relieve tired collar muscles, rest your hands on your thighs and roll your shoulders front to back and then back to front. Repeat five to six times.
JATHAR PARIVARTANASAN
The lower back feels the strain if you are on your feet, or sitting in the same posture for too long. Twisting it flexes the spine. Lie on your back and pull your knees up. Drop your knees to the left such that the left knee touches the floor and the right thigh and knee rests on it. Twist your head to your right side and your hands should be near your ears, and your mouth should be as if youve just yawned. Hold for a count of seven and then change directions . Repeat three times for each side. Then sit up for a short session of Pranayam
PRESSURE POINT
The energy regeneration point is located on the middle of the inside of the right forearm. Press, roll and pump it with your left thumb to energise it.
Is the daily routine of juggling a busy day at work and a demanding family getting to you Feeling exhausted Body aching This could help...
MITALI PAREKH
Yoga can relax your mind and body, ease stiff joints and muscles and make you feel good. It can also tone up your body and help you look great. Yoga trainer Yogesh Chavan prescribes the following asanas to handle everyday pressures on the body...
JALANDHAR SHUDDHI KRIYA
Under pressure, lactic acid accumulates around our neck. Exercising it frees up the nervous system since all the nerves branch out from the base of the neck.
Rotate your neck clockwise and then anti-clockwise . Sit cross-legged on the floor. Drop the neck forward , chin should touch the chest, roll your face to your left, then drop your head back, roll to the right and come back to the starting position. Repeat in anticlockwise . Repeat five to six times in each direction.
To relieve tired collar muscles, rest your hands on your thighs and roll your shoulders front to back and then back to front. Repeat five to six times.
JATHAR PARIVARTANASAN
The lower back feels the strain if you are on your feet, or sitting in the same posture for too long. Twisting it flexes the spine. Lie on your back and pull your knees up. Drop your knees to the left such that the left knee touches the floor and the right thigh and knee rests on it. Twist your head to your right side and your hands should be near your ears, and your mouth should be as if youve just yawned. Hold for a count of seven and then change directions . Repeat three times for each side. Then sit up for a short session of Pranayam
PRESSURE POINT
The energy regeneration point is located on the middle of the inside of the right forearm. Press, roll and pump it with your left thumb to energise it.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
MOUTH ULCERS
How to ease mouth ulcers
Gargle with a solution made from salt mixed in warm water. A saline mixture has a sterilising effect on mouth blisters and sores.
Avoid caffeinated drinks and hot foods that contain sodium or spices.
Rubbing garlic directly onto the ulcer also helps. It may sting initially, but the ulcer will be gone before you know it.
Add a tsp of honey to a glass of water and use it to gargle or gargle with coconut oil.
Mouth ulcers can be the result of a lack of vitamin C. Drink plenty of orange juice or take a supplement.
Raw onions are good for ulcers as they contain sulphur. Munch on them alone or eat them in salads.
Take a glass of chilled water and one glass of hot water and gargle alternately with both.
Gargle with a solution made from salt mixed in warm water. A saline mixture has a sterilising effect on mouth blisters and sores.
Avoid caffeinated drinks and hot foods that contain sodium or spices.
Rubbing garlic directly onto the ulcer also helps. It may sting initially, but the ulcer will be gone before you know it.
Add a tsp of honey to a glass of water and use it to gargle or gargle with coconut oil.
Mouth ulcers can be the result of a lack of vitamin C. Drink plenty of orange juice or take a supplement.
Raw onions are good for ulcers as they contain sulphur. Munch on them alone or eat them in salads.
Take a glass of chilled water and one glass of hot water and gargle alternately with both.
DENTAL CARE
Happy smiles
A perfect smile makes the best first impression at your workplace. iDiva tells you how you can get happy, healthy teeth
Avoid sticky foods and drinks like tea, coffee, red wine and colas.
Flossing is as important as brushing and should be done at least once a day.
Clean your tongue regularly to avoid bad breath.
Use a mouthwash after every meal.
Chewing gum cannot be a substitute for brushing or teeth whitening.
Chewing sugar-free gum can help teeth by stimulating saliva. Saliva neutralises acids that contribute to tooth decay .
Tooth whitening gums contain bicarb soda, also found in tooth-whitening toothpastes. To maximise the benefits of chewing gum, chew after meals or after eating something sweet, if you cant find a brush.
Visit your dentist every six months for routine cleaning and check ups to ensure oral health.
Myth:
Teeth get loose after professional teeth cleaning.
Fact:
Regular cleaning helps maintain good oral health and also controls inflammatory respiratory disorders.
Myth:
Using toothpicks after meals can widen gaps between teeth.
Fact:
Toothpicks do not cause gaps between teeth, but be careful when using toothpicks because they can damage your gums and other soft tissues.
A perfect smile makes the best first impression at your workplace. iDiva tells you how you can get happy, healthy teeth
Avoid sticky foods and drinks like tea, coffee, red wine and colas.
Flossing is as important as brushing and should be done at least once a day.
Clean your tongue regularly to avoid bad breath.
Use a mouthwash after every meal.
Chewing gum cannot be a substitute for brushing or teeth whitening.
Chewing sugar-free gum can help teeth by stimulating saliva. Saliva neutralises acids that contribute to tooth decay .
Tooth whitening gums contain bicarb soda, also found in tooth-whitening toothpastes. To maximise the benefits of chewing gum, chew after meals or after eating something sweet, if you cant find a brush.
Visit your dentist every six months for routine cleaning and check ups to ensure oral health.
Myth:
Teeth get loose after professional teeth cleaning.
Fact:
Regular cleaning helps maintain good oral health and also controls inflammatory respiratory disorders.
Myth:
Using toothpicks after meals can widen gaps between teeth.
Fact:
Toothpicks do not cause gaps between teeth, but be careful when using toothpicks because they can damage your gums and other soft tissues.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Anti-aging drug could add 20 years to life
Anti-aging drug could add 20 years to life
Discovery Of Elixir Of Life Biochemical Found In Easter Island Soil May Lead To Eternal Youth
Scientists have inched closer to a genuine anti-aging pill with the discovery of an elixir of life biochemical , according to a study published in the journal Nature. The wonder pill could extend the lifespan of people by up to 23 years.
The elixir of life anti-aging drug was made from a compound found in the soil on Easter Island one of the most remote places on Earth which is created by a microbe living in the soil.
Experts have been clamouring for years to unlock the secret of eternal youth. But now researchers have been able to stop cells aging by using the compound to block damaging proteins responsible for the process. It is hoped that the findings could lead to the creation of drugs that dramatically slow down aging, allowing people to be healthier for longer, reports the Daily Express of UK. The Easter Island compound called rapamycin after the islands Polynesian name Rapa Nui was found to extend expected lifespan by 38% when tested on mice.
Arlan Richardson, director of the Barshop Institute, said: Ive been in aging research for 35 years and there have been many so-called anti-aging interventions over those years that were never successful. I never thought we would find an anti-aging pill for people in my lifetime. Rapamycin shows a great deal of promise to do just that.
Lynne Cox, researcher with the University of Oxford, said: This is a very exciting study where a single drug with a known cellular effect increases the life expectancy and lifespan of mice. In no way should anyone consider using this particular drug to try to extend their own lifespan as rapamycin suppresses immunity. While the mice were protected from infection, thats simply impossible in humans.
The drug is currently used to suppress immune systems of patients who have had transplant operations to stop their bodies rejecting organs. It is also used in heart operations and is being tested for its anti-cancer properties. Although it is not yet suitable for use on people, expert say it opens the door to the first generation of pills that will extend lifespan.
Until now, the only way to extend a mammals life was to tinker with its genetic make-up or restrict its diet. But rapamycin appears to partially shut down the same molecular pathway as restricting food intake or reducing growth factors.
The astonishing findings have been published in the journal Nature following research carried out at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, in the United States.
The latest anti-aging experiments found that adding rapamycin to the diet of older mice increased their lifespan.
Scientists tested 2,000 laboratory mice aged around 600 days old roughly the equivalent to a 60-year-old person. About one quarter were given a normal diet while the others were given the drug. Once treatment began, it was found to extend the females life expectancy by 38%, and males by 28%. What amazed the scientists is that the mice only started to get the drug in middle and old age. AGENCIES
Discovery Of Elixir Of Life Biochemical Found In Easter Island Soil May Lead To Eternal Youth
Scientists have inched closer to a genuine anti-aging pill with the discovery of an elixir of life biochemical , according to a study published in the journal Nature. The wonder pill could extend the lifespan of people by up to 23 years.
The elixir of life anti-aging drug was made from a compound found in the soil on Easter Island one of the most remote places on Earth which is created by a microbe living in the soil.
Experts have been clamouring for years to unlock the secret of eternal youth. But now researchers have been able to stop cells aging by using the compound to block damaging proteins responsible for the process. It is hoped that the findings could lead to the creation of drugs that dramatically slow down aging, allowing people to be healthier for longer, reports the Daily Express of UK. The Easter Island compound called rapamycin after the islands Polynesian name Rapa Nui was found to extend expected lifespan by 38% when tested on mice.
Arlan Richardson, director of the Barshop Institute, said: Ive been in aging research for 35 years and there have been many so-called anti-aging interventions over those years that were never successful. I never thought we would find an anti-aging pill for people in my lifetime. Rapamycin shows a great deal of promise to do just that.
Lynne Cox, researcher with the University of Oxford, said: This is a very exciting study where a single drug with a known cellular effect increases the life expectancy and lifespan of mice. In no way should anyone consider using this particular drug to try to extend their own lifespan as rapamycin suppresses immunity. While the mice were protected from infection, thats simply impossible in humans.
The drug is currently used to suppress immune systems of patients who have had transplant operations to stop their bodies rejecting organs. It is also used in heart operations and is being tested for its anti-cancer properties. Although it is not yet suitable for use on people, expert say it opens the door to the first generation of pills that will extend lifespan.
Until now, the only way to extend a mammals life was to tinker with its genetic make-up or restrict its diet. But rapamycin appears to partially shut down the same molecular pathway as restricting food intake or reducing growth factors.
The astonishing findings have been published in the journal Nature following research carried out at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, in the United States.
The latest anti-aging experiments found that adding rapamycin to the diet of older mice increased their lifespan.
Scientists tested 2,000 laboratory mice aged around 600 days old roughly the equivalent to a 60-year-old person. About one quarter were given a normal diet while the others were given the drug. Once treatment began, it was found to extend the females life expectancy by 38%, and males by 28%. What amazed the scientists is that the mice only started to get the drug in middle and old age. AGENCIES
The Navel chakra
Way to improve instincts
The Navel chakra is where you gather prana. When the chakra is active, your instincts and timing improve, says Master Del Pe
This is a very simple yet powerful way to quickly centre yourself while awakening internal stamina essential in this highly competitive climate. The Navel chakra is where you gather and alchemize prana, or life force. It is a storehouse for synthesized chi. When the Navel centre is active, your instincts and timing in life improve. Heres how you can do Navel Centre Breathing. Sit in a lotus or semi-lotus position (a crosslegged sitting posture) on the floor. Form a circle with your hands in front of the Navel, the left hand on top of the right hand and the tips of your thumbs touching. Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply while focusing on the Navel. Do not visualize or over concentrate. Do this for five minutes. Practicing Navel Centre Breathing leads to circulation of energy around the body while you charge the Navel and its storage bins . To help you ground, do this while standing, with the knees bent slightly. This technique will automatically centre you and your consciousness from over-thinking while improving instincts.
Navel Breathing with Om
Navel breathing can also increase your rate of vibration and align your consciousness to the soul by sounding the sacred words Om, or Amen. Start with synchronized breathing: Inhale rapidly through your nose as you tilt your head upwards. Exhale rapidly through your mouth as you bring your head down. Do this 10 times. Keep your head vertical and concentrate on the centre of your chest, mid-brow and top of the head. Do 3 sets. Use the same mudra as before. Verbally or mentally recite Om . Hold your breath for a few seconds between inhalations and exhalations. While reciting Om , focus on the top of the head, mid brow and heart simultaneously as you inhale slowly. Do this for 2 minutes. For the next 3 minutes, be aware that you are the soul or the divine self.
The Navel chakra is where you gather prana. When the chakra is active, your instincts and timing improve, says Master Del Pe
This is a very simple yet powerful way to quickly centre yourself while awakening internal stamina essential in this highly competitive climate. The Navel chakra is where you gather and alchemize prana, or life force. It is a storehouse for synthesized chi. When the Navel centre is active, your instincts and timing in life improve. Heres how you can do Navel Centre Breathing. Sit in a lotus or semi-lotus position (a crosslegged sitting posture) on the floor. Form a circle with your hands in front of the Navel, the left hand on top of the right hand and the tips of your thumbs touching. Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply while focusing on the Navel. Do not visualize or over concentrate. Do this for five minutes. Practicing Navel Centre Breathing leads to circulation of energy around the body while you charge the Navel and its storage bins . To help you ground, do this while standing, with the knees bent slightly. This technique will automatically centre you and your consciousness from over-thinking while improving instincts.
Navel Breathing with Om
Navel breathing can also increase your rate of vibration and align your consciousness to the soul by sounding the sacred words Om, or Amen. Start with synchronized breathing: Inhale rapidly through your nose as you tilt your head upwards. Exhale rapidly through your mouth as you bring your head down. Do this 10 times. Keep your head vertical and concentrate on the centre of your chest, mid-brow and top of the head. Do 3 sets. Use the same mudra as before. Verbally or mentally recite Om . Hold your breath for a few seconds between inhalations and exhalations. While reciting Om , focus on the top of the head, mid brow and heart simultaneously as you inhale slowly. Do this for 2 minutes. For the next 3 minutes, be aware that you are the soul or the divine self.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Vinegar is a fat buster
[ 
Vinegar may live up to its folk reputation as a fat buster and health promoter. (Getty Images)
The vinegar used to garnish salad dressings, pickles and other foods, may live up to its folk reputation as a fat buster and health promoter.
Japanese researchers Tomoo Kondo and colleagues noted that vinegar has also been used as a folk medicine since ancient times, for a range of illnesses.
Modern research suggests that acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, may help control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and fat accumulation.
Their new study showed that lab mice fed a high-fat diet and given acetic acid developed significantly less body fat (up to 10 percent less) than other mice, said an American Chemical Society (ACS) release.
Importantly, the new research bolsters evidence that acetic acid fights fat by turning on genes for fatty acid oxidation enzymes.
The genes churn out proteins involved in breaking down fats, thus suppressing body fat accumulation in the body.
These findings were published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Japanese researchers Tomoo Kondo and colleagues noted that vinegar has also been used as a folk medicine since ancient times, for a range of illnesses.
Modern research suggests that acetic acid, the main component of vinegar, may help control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and fat accumulation.
Their new study showed that lab mice fed a high-fat diet and given acetic acid developed significantly less body fat (up to 10 percent less) than other mice, said an American Chemical Society (ACS) release.
Importantly, the new research bolsters evidence that acetic acid fights fat by turning on genes for fatty acid oxidation enzymes.
The genes churn out proteins involved in breaking down fats, thus suppressing body fat accumulation in the body.
These findings were published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Feng Shui to tap on your inner energy
Feng Shui to tap on your inner energy
6 Jul, 2009 0000hrs IST [ TNN ]
Fighting fatigue with Feng Shui (Getty Images)
The whole basis of Feng Shui is to channelise the energy movement—chi in and around your place of dwelling to ensure harmonious living.
However, we do not think much of the inner chi, which needs to be maintained to ensure happiness. When the chi of your eyes is bright, your vision is clear; when the chi of your ears is robust, your hearing is sharp; when the chi of your mouth is strong, your speech is enticing and when the chi of your mind is dazzling, it penetrates all directions, thus taking the individual to great heights.
The flow of chi should meander like rays of light into the body, thus activating the chakras in a positive cycle. When the chi stagnates within the body, it is like a room deprived of fresh air and it creates depression and disease.
Thus, spiritual chi is precious and one needs to constantly replenish and empower it.
Some ways to enhance the inner chi...
1. Enjoy the beauty of the world around you by opening your eyes and mind.
2. Expose yourself to different sights and sounds.
3. Avoid spiritually unhealthy environments and people who generate negative chi.
4. You might have experienced fatigue when you go to crowded places like shopping malls and places of high activity. This could be due to varied fields of energy levels, which depletes your inner energy. One way to avoid such feelings is by sealing the chakras. Stretching exercises are good to get rid of fatigue. Stretch yourself like a cat and feel all the muscles expand and then relax.
5. While lying down, concentrate on the seven chakras and imagine a flow of white light into them. This will send fresh vital energy to protect your aura.
6. Specifically focus on the chakra on top of your head and visualise a white sun disk above your head. Next, focus on the base chakra and repeat the visualisation.
7. Now, you imagine that the two ends are sealed and next visualise a force field around your body and think that ‘nothing negative will be able to penetrate the force field around my body created by me’. Stay still for a few minutes and slowly open the eyes.
8. To cleanse your aura, you could place a small glass of water mixed with rock salt next to you. This will not only help you sleep well, but will cleanse the aura of all negative vibrations picked up during the day. Throw out the water the following day and avoid touching the water as it will imbibe negative vibes.
9. You can also place 200 gm of rock salt in a bowl, dip both your hands into it and start rubbing them till you feel the tingling of salt crystals. Then place both your hands above your head, palm facing downwards a few inches above your head. Move the palms down the body moving from top of the head to feet.
10. While doing this, feel the negative vibrations leaving your aura. Repeat three times to both the left and right side of your body and again thrice from front and back. Shake off your hands and wash it in rock salt water and soap. Try out the cleansing method weekly and you will realise that it has enhanced your inner Feng Shui.
6 Jul, 2009 0000hrs IST [ TNN ]
Fighting fatigue with Feng Shui (Getty Images)
The whole basis of Feng Shui is to channelise the energy movement—chi in and around your place of dwelling to ensure harmonious living.
However, we do not think much of the inner chi, which needs to be maintained to ensure happiness. When the chi of your eyes is bright, your vision is clear; when the chi of your ears is robust, your hearing is sharp; when the chi of your mouth is strong, your speech is enticing and when the chi of your mind is dazzling, it penetrates all directions, thus taking the individual to great heights.
The flow of chi should meander like rays of light into the body, thus activating the chakras in a positive cycle. When the chi stagnates within the body, it is like a room deprived of fresh air and it creates depression and disease.
Thus, spiritual chi is precious and one needs to constantly replenish and empower it.
Some ways to enhance the inner chi...
1. Enjoy the beauty of the world around you by opening your eyes and mind.
2. Expose yourself to different sights and sounds.
3. Avoid spiritually unhealthy environments and people who generate negative chi.
4. You might have experienced fatigue when you go to crowded places like shopping malls and places of high activity. This could be due to varied fields of energy levels, which depletes your inner energy. One way to avoid such feelings is by sealing the chakras. Stretching exercises are good to get rid of fatigue. Stretch yourself like a cat and feel all the muscles expand and then relax.
5. While lying down, concentrate on the seven chakras and imagine a flow of white light into them. This will send fresh vital energy to protect your aura.
6. Specifically focus on the chakra on top of your head and visualise a white sun disk above your head. Next, focus on the base chakra and repeat the visualisation.
7. Now, you imagine that the two ends are sealed and next visualise a force field around your body and think that ‘nothing negative will be able to penetrate the force field around my body created by me’. Stay still for a few minutes and slowly open the eyes.
8. To cleanse your aura, you could place a small glass of water mixed with rock salt next to you. This will not only help you sleep well, but will cleanse the aura of all negative vibrations picked up during the day. Throw out the water the following day and avoid touching the water as it will imbibe negative vibes.
9. You can also place 200 gm of rock salt in a bowl, dip both your hands into it and start rubbing them till you feel the tingling of salt crystals. Then place both your hands above your head, palm facing downwards a few inches above your head. Move the palms down the body moving from top of the head to feet.
10. While doing this, feel the negative vibrations leaving your aura. Repeat three times to both the left and right side of your body and again thrice from front and back. Shake off your hands and wash it in rock salt water and soap. Try out the cleansing method weekly and you will realise that it has enhanced your inner Feng Shui.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Look pretty in the rain
Look pretty in the rain
A bit of care, and a routine maintenence of your skin can help you glow even during the chip-chipa monsoon weather
We love the monsoons, but we dont like what it does to our hair and skin. Perfectly blow-dried hair goes limp and clean-and-moisturised skin gets greasy and lifeless uff!
The main culprit is the excess moisture in the air that is absorbed by our skin and hair. And beware; heat and humidity breeds germs and bacteria.
So, how do we combat these monsoon menaces To begin with, lets deal with the skin. Read on to find out...
Skin shield
Ever asked your friends what are the skin problems that they face during the rains The obvious answer would be dirty feet, greasy skin and breakouts !
On SOSing iDivas skin expert Dr Apratim Goel, we learnt that rain water is loaded with bacteria which cause the break-outs and it's also acidic which is harmful for the skin.
So, she suggested a daily skin care regime for different skin types:
For dry skin
Hydrate it by drinking loads of water and applying a good moisturiser . Use a cream cleanser and avoid toners during the rain because the alcohol in a toner will make your skin drier.
During the day, use a sunscreen that is fortified with a moisturiser and at night use a night cream rich in AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acid) and most importantly hyaluronic acid which allows the skin to absorb moisture.
For oily skin
Keep your face clean to avoid break-outs . In case of a break-out avoid make-up and use a face wash that contains Salicylic acid. Use a good gel-based moisturiser at night and do not forget to apply a sunscreen (for oily skin) during the day.
For normal or combination skin
Use a facial foam to clean your skin. Do not use a toner during the monsoons. Remember, to apply a good moisturiser before going to bed and a non-oily sunscreen during the day.
Well, basically as long as your skin is clean, well moisturised and protected with a good sunscreen, you'll chase away skin problems during the rains.
A bit of care, and a routine maintenence of your skin can help you glow even during the chip-chipa monsoon weather
We love the monsoons, but we dont like what it does to our hair and skin. Perfectly blow-dried hair goes limp and clean-and-moisturised skin gets greasy and lifeless uff!
The main culprit is the excess moisture in the air that is absorbed by our skin and hair. And beware; heat and humidity breeds germs and bacteria.
So, how do we combat these monsoon menaces To begin with, lets deal with the skin. Read on to find out...
Skin shield
Ever asked your friends what are the skin problems that they face during the rains The obvious answer would be dirty feet, greasy skin and breakouts !
On SOSing iDivas skin expert Dr Apratim Goel, we learnt that rain water is loaded with bacteria which cause the break-outs and it's also acidic which is harmful for the skin.
So, she suggested a daily skin care regime for different skin types:
For dry skin
Hydrate it by drinking loads of water and applying a good moisturiser . Use a cream cleanser and avoid toners during the rain because the alcohol in a toner will make your skin drier.
During the day, use a sunscreen that is fortified with a moisturiser and at night use a night cream rich in AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acid) and most importantly hyaluronic acid which allows the skin to absorb moisture.
For oily skin
Keep your face clean to avoid break-outs . In case of a break-out avoid make-up and use a face wash that contains Salicylic acid. Use a good gel-based moisturiser at night and do not forget to apply a sunscreen (for oily skin) during the day.
For normal or combination skin
Use a facial foam to clean your skin. Do not use a toner during the monsoons. Remember, to apply a good moisturiser before going to bed and a non-oily sunscreen during the day.
Well, basically as long as your skin is clean, well moisturised and protected with a good sunscreen, you'll chase away skin problems during the rains.
10 MINUTES to a fab you
10 MINUTES to a fab you
You dont have to spend hours in front of the mirror to look your gorgeous best. Just try these easy tricks
By RINKY KUMAR
Hydrate your skin
Makeup artiste Meghna Butani recommends using a face scrub, following it with a skin primer. A primer creates a smooth base and ensures that your makeup stays longer. It also shields against oiliness and camouflages blemishes, large pores and fine lines. If you have dark circles, use a little concealer and top it off with some loose powder. Once the base of your skin is hydrated, any makeup will look good, says Meghna.
Blush on
Add some colour to your cheeks with the right blusher . Reema Sablok, makeup artiste, says, Avoid using a shiny blusher during daytime. The best bet is a peachy matte blush that brightens up your cheeks instantly.
Tip to toe
You can keep those cuticles at bay by brushing your nails with a loofah. Opt for a hand and foot cream to moisturise your tips and toes. Sablok advises to always carry a nail buffer. A buffer gives you shiny nails instantly.
Get baby soft skin
Butani recommends the age-old recipe of curd, honey and milk to get baby soft skin. You can also opt for baby oil and wash it off with a scrub.
Kissable lips
Dry, chapped lips are a huge turn-off . But you can get soft lips within two minutes. Just brush your lips with your toothbrush. The toothbrush brushes away all the dead skin and leaves you with soft, supple lips. Top it up with a lip gloss or a lip stainer. Butani suggests, If you have thin lips, use a lip plumper.
Hair and about
If your hair is cut in layers and you want a wet look, then take mousse and scrunch it with your hands. Hair expert Simi Keer suggests, If you want a softer look, use a serum on damp hair as it gives good texture . If you want to tie up your mane, simply comb your hair upside down, then spray some hair spray, take two-three pins and tie up a French roll. If you have curly locks, comb it once only when its wet. Then take some mousse to scrunch it up. The mousse enhances your curls. Avoid combing your locks often as the more you comb, the frizzier it becomes. If you have long, silky hair, then use some serum, comb your hair and let your locks flow naturally.
Let your eyes do the talking
Its imperative to curl your lashes with a lash curler and use mascara. Sablok says, Everyone should ideally have a lash curler. It can instantly bring out your eyes and make them look bigger. She also suggests that if you have light eyebrows, then fill them up with an eyebrow pencil. It always helps!
You dont have to spend hours in front of the mirror to look your gorgeous best. Just try these easy tricks
By RINKY KUMAR
Hydrate your skin
Makeup artiste Meghna Butani recommends using a face scrub, following it with a skin primer. A primer creates a smooth base and ensures that your makeup stays longer. It also shields against oiliness and camouflages blemishes, large pores and fine lines. If you have dark circles, use a little concealer and top it off with some loose powder. Once the base of your skin is hydrated, any makeup will look good, says Meghna.
Blush on
Add some colour to your cheeks with the right blusher . Reema Sablok, makeup artiste, says, Avoid using a shiny blusher during daytime. The best bet is a peachy matte blush that brightens up your cheeks instantly.
Tip to toe
You can keep those cuticles at bay by brushing your nails with a loofah. Opt for a hand and foot cream to moisturise your tips and toes. Sablok advises to always carry a nail buffer. A buffer gives you shiny nails instantly.
Get baby soft skin
Butani recommends the age-old recipe of curd, honey and milk to get baby soft skin. You can also opt for baby oil and wash it off with a scrub.
Kissable lips
Dry, chapped lips are a huge turn-off . But you can get soft lips within two minutes. Just brush your lips with your toothbrush. The toothbrush brushes away all the dead skin and leaves you with soft, supple lips. Top it up with a lip gloss or a lip stainer. Butani suggests, If you have thin lips, use a lip plumper.
Hair and about
If your hair is cut in layers and you want a wet look, then take mousse and scrunch it with your hands. Hair expert Simi Keer suggests, If you want a softer look, use a serum on damp hair as it gives good texture . If you want to tie up your mane, simply comb your hair upside down, then spray some hair spray, take two-three pins and tie up a French roll. If you have curly locks, comb it once only when its wet. Then take some mousse to scrunch it up. The mousse enhances your curls. Avoid combing your locks often as the more you comb, the frizzier it becomes. If you have long, silky hair, then use some serum, comb your hair and let your locks flow naturally.
Let your eyes do the talking
Its imperative to curl your lashes with a lash curler and use mascara. Sablok says, Everyone should ideally have a lash curler. It can instantly bring out your eyes and make them look bigger. She also suggests that if you have light eyebrows, then fill them up with an eyebrow pencil. It always helps!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
EXERCISES FOR THE LOWER BACK
What is core training
Muscles that circle the body just under the belt line are known as core muscles. To maintain balance and posture, it is important to strengthen these muscles, says Namita Jain
Core training is often described as movement flowing out from a strong centre . Your centre band of muscles that circles the body just under the belt line is the foundation for all movements. It consists of muscles of the abdominals, lower back and hips.
Balance and posture
If you think about how you sit or stand, you will realize that you sink most of your weight into these areas. It is important to adequately strengthen these muscles in order to maintain good balance and posture.
How do I know whether I am exercising correctly When you work your core muscles, you should feel them contract. If you feel a strain in your back and neck, alter your training technique.
What is the one best exercise for abdominals There is no one best exercise for training the abdominals. Focus on doing the movement right so that the exercise works for you.
I just cant get rid of the layer of fat around my mid-section . What should I do The best way to burn fat is through diet modification and exercise. Cut out empty calories and eat sensibly. Simple exercises like walking, swimming, cycling or running are effective.
Exercises for core muscles
Single leg stretch
Lie on a mat Lift the head and neck off the floor and contract abdominals Take hold of the calf muscle of your right leg; extend the left leg in front of you Switch legs and repeat Do 2 sets of 12 repetitions
Boat pose
Lie on your back and lift your upper back and legs off the floor Your hands are by your side and your head and toes are on the same level Hold for 30 to 60 seconds Slowly return to starting position
Locust pose
Lie on the stomach, arms by the side of your body Lift head, chest, legs and arms off the floor Hold for 30 to 60 seconds Slowly, return to starting position
Muscles that circle the body just under the belt line are known as core muscles. To maintain balance and posture, it is important to strengthen these muscles, says Namita Jain
Core training is often described as movement flowing out from a strong centre . Your centre band of muscles that circles the body just under the belt line is the foundation for all movements. It consists of muscles of the abdominals, lower back and hips.
Balance and posture
If you think about how you sit or stand, you will realize that you sink most of your weight into these areas. It is important to adequately strengthen these muscles in order to maintain good balance and posture.
How do I know whether I am exercising correctly When you work your core muscles, you should feel them contract. If you feel a strain in your back and neck, alter your training technique.
What is the one best exercise for abdominals There is no one best exercise for training the abdominals. Focus on doing the movement right so that the exercise works for you.
I just cant get rid of the layer of fat around my mid-section . What should I do The best way to burn fat is through diet modification and exercise. Cut out empty calories and eat sensibly. Simple exercises like walking, swimming, cycling or running are effective.
Exercises for core muscles
Single leg stretch
Lie on a mat Lift the head and neck off the floor and contract abdominals Take hold of the calf muscle of your right leg; extend the left leg in front of you Switch legs and repeat Do 2 sets of 12 repetitions
Boat pose
Lie on your back and lift your upper back and legs off the floor Your hands are by your side and your head and toes are on the same level Hold for 30 to 60 seconds Slowly return to starting position
Locust pose
Lie on the stomach, arms by the side of your body Lift head, chest, legs and arms off the floor Hold for 30 to 60 seconds Slowly, return to starting position
Friday, July 3, 2009
SANATAN KRIYA
Let Gloom Not Be Doom
Use Sanatan Kriya to inhale positivity and exhale negativity. Make your life, your world a brighter, chirpier, shinier place even as recession hits global happiness...
YOGI ASHWINI
The human mind seems very complicated but is, in essence, a very simple yet very powerful device. It can indeed shape the destiny of the body. Its a fact that what we fear most usually happens... Sanatan Kriya, a practical tool for harnessing the brains powers , tells us how.
It is a medical fact that for righthanded people, fingernails of the right hand grow faster than of the left; it is also a medical fact that people with low self-esteem normally suffer from stomach ailments. Psychosomatic ailments are proof of the ability of the human brain to cause disease. If we take the flip side, then it would be easy to deduce that the brain can also cause health. If thoughts can cause gloom, they can also cause joy. Yoga and Sanatan Kriya say that these very thoughts can change your destiny and your environment .
Let us try and get out of some gloomy situations. Here are some techniques from Sanatan Kriya, which is also the foundation for great healing arts like Reiki and Pranic Healing.
We are all energies, controlled by the power of our thoughts. Let us lie on a bed and inhale the colour green from all plants and trees around. Then, let us exhale brown. Let us now inhale saffron from the sun, and exhale brown. Then, inhale blue from the ocean and exhale brown. Then, inhale joy from chirping birds, whistling winds and childrens laughter and hold the breath and spread it in our body, exhaling all negative thoughts. Continue this process for five minutes and feel surrounded by all that you desire. Sanatan Kriya can transform your thought patterns in five minutes flat! Long-term practice under a gurus guidance can actually change all the gloom and sadness in your life into joy and progression .
Use Sanatan Kriya to inhale positivity and exhale negativity. Make your life, your world a brighter, chirpier, shinier place even as recession hits global happiness...
YOGI ASHWINI
The human mind seems very complicated but is, in essence, a very simple yet very powerful device. It can indeed shape the destiny of the body. Its a fact that what we fear most usually happens... Sanatan Kriya, a practical tool for harnessing the brains powers , tells us how.
It is a medical fact that for righthanded people, fingernails of the right hand grow faster than of the left; it is also a medical fact that people with low self-esteem normally suffer from stomach ailments. Psychosomatic ailments are proof of the ability of the human brain to cause disease. If we take the flip side, then it would be easy to deduce that the brain can also cause health. If thoughts can cause gloom, they can also cause joy. Yoga and Sanatan Kriya say that these very thoughts can change your destiny and your environment .
Let us try and get out of some gloomy situations. Here are some techniques from Sanatan Kriya, which is also the foundation for great healing arts like Reiki and Pranic Healing.
We are all energies, controlled by the power of our thoughts. Let us lie on a bed and inhale the colour green from all plants and trees around. Then, let us exhale brown. Let us now inhale saffron from the sun, and exhale brown. Then, inhale blue from the ocean and exhale brown. Then, inhale joy from chirping birds, whistling winds and childrens laughter and hold the breath and spread it in our body, exhaling all negative thoughts. Continue this process for five minutes and feel surrounded by all that you desire. Sanatan Kriya can transform your thought patterns in five minutes flat! Long-term practice under a gurus guidance can actually change all the gloom and sadness in your life into joy and progression .
BACK PAIN
BACK IN BUSINESS
Your humble back goes a long way in helping you deal with your daily chores. Are you giving it the attention it deserves Get back to the basics...
Its something we all keep cribbing about yet love to ignore! Yup, that niggling backache. But ignorance is not always bliss. Give your back the much-needed TLC it needs. And get back with a bang What say
BACKACHE BASICS
A backache could be a result of many things, from osteoarthritis (a condition caused by the loss of cartilage in the joints) and slipped disc (the result of twisting your body while lifting something heavy) to rheumatoid arthritis (a painful condition that leads to backaches) and referred pain that may not be directly linked to your back, but may affect it.
TO GET BACK TO WORK...
Eat Healthy:
Till the age of 30, your body produces proteoglycans, which protect the bones. Once you hit 30, you must consume foods rich in protein and calcium to counter the bodys dipping production. Include fruits, veggies, milk and grains.
Move your body:
Exercise, that is! A regimen of gentle back exercises and stretches keeps your spine flexible.
Get Flab-Free :
Excess weight can cause back injuries and lead to backache. Shed it, now!
And Stress-Free Too:
Stress leads to muscular tension. Counter it. Practise yoga. Meditate.
Mind Your Posture:
Dont keep sitting at a particular place for long. Get up and walk. Also, when you lift something, bend at the knees and sit on your haunches instead of bending over completely. It reduces the strain on your back considerably.
HOT Tip:
Heres a quick mantra to energise you in seconds. Loosen yourself , arch your back, and stre-e-e-tch !
Your humble back goes a long way in helping you deal with your daily chores. Are you giving it the attention it deserves Get back to the basics...
Its something we all keep cribbing about yet love to ignore! Yup, that niggling backache. But ignorance is not always bliss. Give your back the much-needed TLC it needs. And get back with a bang What say
BACKACHE BASICS
A backache could be a result of many things, from osteoarthritis (a condition caused by the loss of cartilage in the joints) and slipped disc (the result of twisting your body while lifting something heavy) to rheumatoid arthritis (a painful condition that leads to backaches) and referred pain that may not be directly linked to your back, but may affect it.
TO GET BACK TO WORK...
Eat Healthy:
Till the age of 30, your body produces proteoglycans, which protect the bones. Once you hit 30, you must consume foods rich in protein and calcium to counter the bodys dipping production. Include fruits, veggies, milk and grains.
Move your body:
Exercise, that is! A regimen of gentle back exercises and stretches keeps your spine flexible.
Get Flab-Free :
Excess weight can cause back injuries and lead to backache. Shed it, now!
And Stress-Free Too:
Stress leads to muscular tension. Counter it. Practise yoga. Meditate.
Mind Your Posture:
Dont keep sitting at a particular place for long. Get up and walk. Also, when you lift something, bend at the knees and sit on your haunches instead of bending over completely. It reduces the strain on your back considerably.
HOT Tip:
Heres a quick mantra to energise you in seconds. Loosen yourself , arch your back, and stre-e-e-tch !
BALDNESS
LETS FACE BALDNESS
HAIR LOSS AND BALDNESS IS AFFECTING BOTH MEN AND WOMEN TODAY. FIND OUT THE REASONS BEHIND THIS AND WHETHER YOU CAN REALLY GET YOUR LOST HAIR BACK
The primary function of hair is protection and hence if we see pictures of our ancestors, youll always find men covered with thick bushy hair as a protection against the vagaries of nature, but today we are living in the world of diminishing returns as far as the hair is concerned, both men and women are facing the harshness and reality of scanty hair and baldness.
Hair in todays world is not only your crowning glory but a measure of ones self image, prestige and confidence. A persons body language has a lot to do with the way a person perceives himself or herself to look and hair plays a great role in this perception.
Baldness can lead to body dismorphic disorder, which is characterised by the patient being preoccupied by a perceived flaw in the appearance of the hair specially thinning and balding.The patient may spend an inordinate amount of time in front of the mirror or may refuse himself / herself to look in the mirror. He / she may avoid social contact, refuse to have photograph taken and experience extreme self-consciousness eventually leading to depression.
Trichology, the science of hair and scalp care, offers hope to millions of people suffering from baldness and its associated health problems through,
1.
Proper diagnosis
2.
Correct counselling
3.
Treatment process
THE TREATMENT PROCESS
Baldness is broadly classified into:
1.
Androgenetic alopecia
2.
Non-Scarring alopecia
3.
Scarring alopecia
ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA
As the name suggests, androgenetic alopecia is a baldness triggered off by the action of the male hormone on a weak gene.
ACTION PROCESS:
The male hormone, androgen is to blame. Androgen starts flowing freely in the body in the post-pubescence stage. Ironically, it is the same hormone, which causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to baldness.The hair follicles are attacked; the hair begins to fall off.The person begins to go bald and is diagnosed to be suffering from Male Pattern Thinning (MPT) or androgenetic alopecia. Unfortunately, one cannot tamper with ones genes and taking anti-male hormones to destroy the male hormones could have potential side effects like sexual dysfunction and depression.
Women have both androgen (which is responsible for hair growth all over the body) and the female hormone oestrogen. In men, androgen ironically causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to this kind of baldness. Fortunately for women, the hormone oestrogen counteracts and stops this negative action of androgen. However, in periods when the oestrogen level falls, androgen starts attacking the hair follicles and as the hair follicles are destroyed, hair starts to thin.
For example, before menopause, the production of oestrogen is high.This acts as protection against the small amount of androgen that women produce. After menopause, when the production of the oestrogen slows down dramatically or stops altogether, Female Pattern Thinning (FPT) in women begins.This thinning may also be triggered off by stress, the consumption of oral contraceptives, after a hysterectomy, childbirth, or hormonereplacement therapy.
BALDING PATTERN:
Male pattern thinning usually begins during the late teens and early 20s and affected men are well on the way to baldness at early 30s . Male pattern thinning is easily recognised by its location on the scalp and by the manner in which it occurs.The thinning of the hair occurs at the temples and / or the thinning of the hair occurs in the front crown areas of the scalp.The final stage of such a loss leaves a band of hair around and back and the sides of scalp and baldness over the rest of the scalp.The diagrammatic representation of the stages of baldness to the extreme left shows us the progress of this disorder.
In women, androgenetic alopecia appears as diffuse hair loss or thinning in the fronto-vortex region (i.e. - on top of the frontal region) and the frontal region is spared in most cases (Above graphic).This hair loss happens at a slower rate than in men and it happens at a much later time in life. But age does not make it less traumatic for a woman, especially if she has had luxuriant hair before.
STAGES IMAGE MALE AND FEMALE
How to face baldness:
In their anxiety to look good and feel better, people leave no stone unturned right from applying snake oil to elephant teeth to standing on ones head or applying the so called magical lotions for re-growth of hair.
Re-growth is possible only in nonscarring alopecias and is never possible in androgenetic alopecia or scarring baldness like pseudopalade. Ninety per cent of all baldness in the world are of Androgenetic type and science today has progressed so far as to control the balding process i.e. to keep you where you are for a longer period of time. It is important to understand that male pattern thinning is a progressive disorder and hence the earlier the diagnosis, the better and longer the chances of controlling the problem.
THE DISCOVERY OF NATURAL DHT BLOCKERS
It was found that nature had some natural DHT blockers, which could control the action of the male hormone on the hair. Green tea and a berry seed called saw palmetto, which grows in North America and Australia were the two most prominent DHT blockers found. Saw palmetto and green tea processed as a food supplement called Serenoa Complex has turned out to be one of the most potent treatments for controlling male pattern thinning.
The monitoring of male pattern thinning:
The follicular count method is used by trichologists all over the world to help patients monitor the control of male pattern thinning.The process involves counting of the number of hair follicles in the fronto-vertex area and monitoring the count every three months.
Hair camouflage techniques like single hair follicular grafting (surgical), carefree systems (non surgical) and hair fibres (temporary) have been developed to help you regain your lost hair.
With proper care, which includes proper diet, healthy lifestyle, adequate sleep, early diagnosis and proper treatment by your trichologist, Baldness can be faced by one and all. Have a Great Hair Day!
People leave no stone unturned in their anxiety to look good and feel better. Right from standing on ones head or applying the so-called magical lotions for re-growth of hair. Re-growth is not possible in androgenetic alopecia or scarring baldness like pseudopalade. It is important to understand that male pattern thinning is a progressive disorder and hence the earlier the diagnosis, the better and longer the chances of controlling the problem.
HAIR LOSS AND BALDNESS IS AFFECTING BOTH MEN AND WOMEN TODAY. FIND OUT THE REASONS BEHIND THIS AND WHETHER YOU CAN REALLY GET YOUR LOST HAIR BACK
The primary function of hair is protection and hence if we see pictures of our ancestors, youll always find men covered with thick bushy hair as a protection against the vagaries of nature, but today we are living in the world of diminishing returns as far as the hair is concerned, both men and women are facing the harshness and reality of scanty hair and baldness.
Hair in todays world is not only your crowning glory but a measure of ones self image, prestige and confidence. A persons body language has a lot to do with the way a person perceives himself or herself to look and hair plays a great role in this perception.
Baldness can lead to body dismorphic disorder, which is characterised by the patient being preoccupied by a perceived flaw in the appearance of the hair specially thinning and balding.The patient may spend an inordinate amount of time in front of the mirror or may refuse himself / herself to look in the mirror. He / she may avoid social contact, refuse to have photograph taken and experience extreme self-consciousness eventually leading to depression.
Trichology, the science of hair and scalp care, offers hope to millions of people suffering from baldness and its associated health problems through,
1.
Proper diagnosis
2.
Correct counselling
3.
Treatment process
THE TREATMENT PROCESS
Baldness is broadly classified into:
1.
Androgenetic alopecia
2.
Non-Scarring alopecia
3.
Scarring alopecia
ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA
As the name suggests, androgenetic alopecia is a baldness triggered off by the action of the male hormone on a weak gene.
ACTION PROCESS:
The male hormone, androgen is to blame. Androgen starts flowing freely in the body in the post-pubescence stage. Ironically, it is the same hormone, which causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to baldness.The hair follicles are attacked; the hair begins to fall off.The person begins to go bald and is diagnosed to be suffering from Male Pattern Thinning (MPT) or androgenetic alopecia. Unfortunately, one cannot tamper with ones genes and taking anti-male hormones to destroy the male hormones could have potential side effects like sexual dysfunction and depression.
Women have both androgen (which is responsible for hair growth all over the body) and the female hormone oestrogen. In men, androgen ironically causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to this kind of baldness. Fortunately for women, the hormone oestrogen counteracts and stops this negative action of androgen. However, in periods when the oestrogen level falls, androgen starts attacking the hair follicles and as the hair follicles are destroyed, hair starts to thin.
For example, before menopause, the production of oestrogen is high.This acts as protection against the small amount of androgen that women produce. After menopause, when the production of the oestrogen slows down dramatically or stops altogether, Female Pattern Thinning (FPT) in women begins.This thinning may also be triggered off by stress, the consumption of oral contraceptives, after a hysterectomy, childbirth, or hormonereplacement therapy.
BALDING PATTERN:
Male pattern thinning usually begins during the late teens and early 20s and affected men are well on the way to baldness at early 30s . Male pattern thinning is easily recognised by its location on the scalp and by the manner in which it occurs.The thinning of the hair occurs at the temples and / or the thinning of the hair occurs in the front crown areas of the scalp.The final stage of such a loss leaves a band of hair around and back and the sides of scalp and baldness over the rest of the scalp.The diagrammatic representation of the stages of baldness to the extreme left shows us the progress of this disorder.
In women, androgenetic alopecia appears as diffuse hair loss or thinning in the fronto-vortex region (i.e. - on top of the frontal region) and the frontal region is spared in most cases (Above graphic).This hair loss happens at a slower rate than in men and it happens at a much later time in life. But age does not make it less traumatic for a woman, especially if she has had luxuriant hair before.
STAGES IMAGE MALE AND FEMALE
How to face baldness:
In their anxiety to look good and feel better, people leave no stone unturned right from applying snake oil to elephant teeth to standing on ones head or applying the so called magical lotions for re-growth of hair.
Re-growth is possible only in nonscarring alopecias and is never possible in androgenetic alopecia or scarring baldness like pseudopalade. Ninety per cent of all baldness in the world are of Androgenetic type and science today has progressed so far as to control the balding process i.e. to keep you where you are for a longer period of time. It is important to understand that male pattern thinning is a progressive disorder and hence the earlier the diagnosis, the better and longer the chances of controlling the problem.
THE DISCOVERY OF NATURAL DHT BLOCKERS
It was found that nature had some natural DHT blockers, which could control the action of the male hormone on the hair. Green tea and a berry seed called saw palmetto, which grows in North America and Australia were the two most prominent DHT blockers found. Saw palmetto and green tea processed as a food supplement called Serenoa Complex has turned out to be one of the most potent treatments for controlling male pattern thinning.
The monitoring of male pattern thinning:
The follicular count method is used by trichologists all over the world to help patients monitor the control of male pattern thinning.The process involves counting of the number of hair follicles in the fronto-vertex area and monitoring the count every three months.
Hair camouflage techniques like single hair follicular grafting (surgical), carefree systems (non surgical) and hair fibres (temporary) have been developed to help you regain your lost hair.
With proper care, which includes proper diet, healthy lifestyle, adequate sleep, early diagnosis and proper treatment by your trichologist, Baldness can be faced by one and all. Have a Great Hair Day!
People leave no stone unturned in their anxiety to look good and feel better. Right from standing on ones head or applying the so-called magical lotions for re-growth of hair. Re-growth is not possible in androgenetic alopecia or scarring baldness like pseudopalade. It is important to understand that male pattern thinning is a progressive disorder and hence the earlier the diagnosis, the better and longer the chances of controlling the problem.
Watch out for cervical cancer
Watch out for cervical cancer
Early diagnosis usually means an excellent prognosis, but this opportunity is often missed in India where women are usually detected with this cancer at the advanced stage
The incidence of death due to cervical cancer is the highest in India. One of the key reasons for the large number of fatalities is the lack of awareness in the country about cervical cancer. Currently 365.71 million women in India are above the age of 15 years; each one of them stands a high risk of developing cervical cancer. WHO reveals startling figures for India according to their surveys about 132,082 women are annually diagnosed with cervical cancer, out of which about 74,000 die.
What is cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is the cancer of the mouth of the uterus called cervix.
All sexually active women stand at the risk of contracting it.
The good news here is that cervical cancer is one of the very few cancers for which the cause is known and the cancer itself is preventable.
If the cancer is detected at an early stage, i.e. the pre-cancerous stage, it can be treated with a very high success rate. Unfortunately in developing countries like India, women are usually detected with this cancer at the advanced stage by when it becomes incurable . Early diagnosis usually means an excellent prognosis; but this opportunity is missed as women in India are rarely screened. The absence of symptoms and screening often means that women become aware of the cancer only after it has reached a fairly advanced stage. But by then, treatment is extremely difficult.
What can women do to protect themselves from the risk of cervical cancer
At an individual level watch out for a few signs such as pelvic pain or pain during intercourse, bleeding between periods, post-menstrual bleeding and discharge from the vagina.
Increase awareness of cervical cancer and adopt a preventive health-seeking behaviour amongst other women.
Regularly visit your gynaecologist and insist on a screening such as PAP smear and other available options.
In the event that you have an abnormal PAP smear, make sure you follow up on this.
Early diagnosis usually means an excellent prognosis, but this opportunity is often missed in India where women are usually detected with this cancer at the advanced stage
The incidence of death due to cervical cancer is the highest in India. One of the key reasons for the large number of fatalities is the lack of awareness in the country about cervical cancer. Currently 365.71 million women in India are above the age of 15 years; each one of them stands a high risk of developing cervical cancer. WHO reveals startling figures for India according to their surveys about 132,082 women are annually diagnosed with cervical cancer, out of which about 74,000 die.
What is cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is the cancer of the mouth of the uterus called cervix.
All sexually active women stand at the risk of contracting it.
The good news here is that cervical cancer is one of the very few cancers for which the cause is known and the cancer itself is preventable.
If the cancer is detected at an early stage, i.e. the pre-cancerous stage, it can be treated with a very high success rate. Unfortunately in developing countries like India, women are usually detected with this cancer at the advanced stage by when it becomes incurable . Early diagnosis usually means an excellent prognosis; but this opportunity is missed as women in India are rarely screened. The absence of symptoms and screening often means that women become aware of the cancer only after it has reached a fairly advanced stage. But by then, treatment is extremely difficult.
What can women do to protect themselves from the risk of cervical cancer
At an individual level watch out for a few signs such as pelvic pain or pain during intercourse, bleeding between periods, post-menstrual bleeding and discharge from the vagina.
Increase awareness of cervical cancer and adopt a preventive health-seeking behaviour amongst other women.
Regularly visit your gynaecologist and insist on a screening such as PAP smear and other available options.
In the event that you have an abnormal PAP smear, make sure you follow up on this.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
POST PREGNANCY WEIGHT LOSS
Fit for a mom
With a little change in diet you can shed off those extra post-pregnancy kilos and get back in shape
SONAL VED
Putting on weight after you give birth to your bundle of joy is inevitable . But while most new mums resort to crash diets or spend extra hours at the gym, they must know that it is most important to maintain basic fitness levels. Use a little tact and you can easily become your slim self again. We show you how.
MAKING UP FOR THE LOSS
In any normal delivery at least 300 to 350 ml of blood is lost. When the blood loss exceeds 500ml its termed as postpartum hemorrhage . After pregnancy the body needs to build up on the lost hemoglobin.
Secondly since the mother will be breastfeeding the baby, the body also needs an extra dose of calcium, proteins and vitamins.
WATCH YOUR DIET
Small meals
Consume small frequent meals i.e. five to six mini meals instead of three main meals. Make sure you eat something filling like a tall glass of milkshake, sprouts, soup or a plate of fruits.
More liquid, cut caffeine
Caffeine is permitted in moderation i.e. not more than two cups of coffee a day. Instead, opt for other liquids and drink gallons of water. Add to your diet fresh fruit juices and milkshakes, especially with fruits such as apple and banana that will make up for the calcium requirement. Also swap whole milk for skimmed milk; it has proteins minus the fat.
Restrict fried foods, not fats
One needs to understand the difference between good fat and bad fat. Its best if you avoid fried foods like salty chips, bhajiyas, vadas, etc but give your body essential fats through nuts, home-made ghee (two to three tsps), paneer and olive oil.
Build on animal protein
Proteins from lean white meat such as chicken and fish (deskinned) are a good option for lactating mothers. Whereas cholesterol rich red meat and organ meat that contain fats along with proteins should be consumed sparingly . For vegetarians, animal protein can come through curds, chaas and lassi.
Healthier substitutes
You need not skip food, instead substitute it for healthier options. Like jaggery for sugar, watermelon juice for cola and brown rice for its polished cousin.
Increase fibre
Keep away from refined flours like maida and its products such as noodles, spaghetti and bread. Foods like spinach, methi, gourd, pumpkin, lady finger, brinjal, bitter gourd, peas, mushroom and bellpeppers are packed with fibre. Fibre improves digestion, controls sugar, promotes satiety, and provides anti-oxidants and vitamins that are important post-pregnancy .
EXERCISE
For women who have undergone cesarean surgery , its best to stay away from exercise for six months after the delivery. But exercise can usually begin 40 days after a normal delivery. You can do the following:
Walk
Brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes is good enough for a beginner.
Yoga
Post-pregnancy , yoga is the best way to improve posture. Regularly practise surya namaskar, cobra pose or the inverted-V .
Dance and group Aerobics
Dancing or working out with music releases happiness hormones in the body.
With a little change in diet you can shed off those extra post-pregnancy kilos and get back in shape
SONAL VED
Putting on weight after you give birth to your bundle of joy is inevitable . But while most new mums resort to crash diets or spend extra hours at the gym, they must know that it is most important to maintain basic fitness levels. Use a little tact and you can easily become your slim self again. We show you how.
MAKING UP FOR THE LOSS
In any normal delivery at least 300 to 350 ml of blood is lost. When the blood loss exceeds 500ml its termed as postpartum hemorrhage . After pregnancy the body needs to build up on the lost hemoglobin.
Secondly since the mother will be breastfeeding the baby, the body also needs an extra dose of calcium, proteins and vitamins.
WATCH YOUR DIET
Small meals
Consume small frequent meals i.e. five to six mini meals instead of three main meals. Make sure you eat something filling like a tall glass of milkshake, sprouts, soup or a plate of fruits.
More liquid, cut caffeine
Caffeine is permitted in moderation i.e. not more than two cups of coffee a day. Instead, opt for other liquids and drink gallons of water. Add to your diet fresh fruit juices and milkshakes, especially with fruits such as apple and banana that will make up for the calcium requirement. Also swap whole milk for skimmed milk; it has proteins minus the fat.
Restrict fried foods, not fats
One needs to understand the difference between good fat and bad fat. Its best if you avoid fried foods like salty chips, bhajiyas, vadas, etc but give your body essential fats through nuts, home-made ghee (two to three tsps), paneer and olive oil.
Build on animal protein
Proteins from lean white meat such as chicken and fish (deskinned) are a good option for lactating mothers. Whereas cholesterol rich red meat and organ meat that contain fats along with proteins should be consumed sparingly . For vegetarians, animal protein can come through curds, chaas and lassi.
Healthier substitutes
You need not skip food, instead substitute it for healthier options. Like jaggery for sugar, watermelon juice for cola and brown rice for its polished cousin.
Increase fibre
Keep away from refined flours like maida and its products such as noodles, spaghetti and bread. Foods like spinach, methi, gourd, pumpkin, lady finger, brinjal, bitter gourd, peas, mushroom and bellpeppers are packed with fibre. Fibre improves digestion, controls sugar, promotes satiety, and provides anti-oxidants and vitamins that are important post-pregnancy .
EXERCISE
For women who have undergone cesarean surgery , its best to stay away from exercise for six months after the delivery. But exercise can usually begin 40 days after a normal delivery. You can do the following:
Walk
Brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes is good enough for a beginner.
Yoga
Post-pregnancy , yoga is the best way to improve posture. Regularly practise surya namaskar, cobra pose or the inverted-V .
Dance and group Aerobics
Dancing or working out with music releases happiness hormones in the body.
Friday, June 26, 2009
home tricks for happy, healthy skin and hair.
LETS GET FRESH!
Herbal beauty expert Suparna Trikhas easy DIY home tricks for happy, healthy skin and hair...
GO GLOW:
Mix 1 tbsp milk with 1 tsp each of honey, oatmeal and sandalwood powder. Add a few drops of lemon juice. Apply to your face. Let dry. Dab on some rose water and scrub off.
HAIR DO:
Make a paste of 20 hibiscus leaves with 2 tsp each of powdered triphala, amla, reetha and shikakai. Add tsp ground black pepper. Apply to scalp and hair ends. Wash after 30 minutes. This counters hair fall.
BAN THE TAN:
Mix 2 tsp sandalwood powder, 2 tsp grated cucumber and 2 tsp Fullers earth with some milk and apply to your face. Scrub and wash off with cold milk when semi-dry .
PIGMENT PURGE:
Add 5 tsp almond paste, a pinch of camphor, 1 tsp red lentil powder and 1 tsp chiraunji paste to some milk and apply to the affected area. Scrub off when dry.
Herbal beauty expert Suparna Trikhas easy DIY home tricks for happy, healthy skin and hair...
GO GLOW:
Mix 1 tbsp milk with 1 tsp each of honey, oatmeal and sandalwood powder. Add a few drops of lemon juice. Apply to your face. Let dry. Dab on some rose water and scrub off.
HAIR DO:
Make a paste of 20 hibiscus leaves with 2 tsp each of powdered triphala, amla, reetha and shikakai. Add tsp ground black pepper. Apply to scalp and hair ends. Wash after 30 minutes. This counters hair fall.
BAN THE TAN:
Mix 2 tsp sandalwood powder, 2 tsp grated cucumber and 2 tsp Fullers earth with some milk and apply to your face. Scrub and wash off with cold milk when semi-dry .
PIGMENT PURGE:
Add 5 tsp almond paste, a pinch of camphor, 1 tsp red lentil powder and 1 tsp chiraunji paste to some milk and apply to the affected area. Scrub off when dry.
BODY CHECK
BODY CHECK
Does one fine line around your eyes make you rush to your beautician Why not look at the real problem instead...
If you think that a parlour procedure will make you look like a supermodel, then wake up and smell the coffee. Dermatologist Dr Rishi Parashar advises, Dont think of a makeover. Youll be what you are. Dont get depressed if a facial is not getting the desired result. The problem could be something else. Find out the real culprit...
DULL SKIN:
Means you need to take more Vitamins C, D and E, via fruits and green veggies in your diet. Also, you need more fluids. Your water intake decides your skin texture. Bottoms up, then!
MELASMA:
Melasma (brown patches on face) could be a result of hormonal changes (pregnancy period), iron deficiency or liver problems. Dr Parashar says, Many parlours suggest laser therapy for melasma but the problem can crop up again. Take a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants and use ample sun protection.
PIGMENTATION:
It could be a result of sun exposure , poor diet, hormonal changes, diabetes, sudden weight loss and thyroid imbalance.
ACNE:
Acne is often a result of hormonal imbalance , poor diet, polycystic ovary disease, constipation and over-active sebaceous glands.
HAIR FALL:
Hair fall can be a result of some illness, abnormal thyroid gland, hormonal imbalance and fungal infections of the scalp.
Does one fine line around your eyes make you rush to your beautician Why not look at the real problem instead...
If you think that a parlour procedure will make you look like a supermodel, then wake up and smell the coffee. Dermatologist Dr Rishi Parashar advises, Dont think of a makeover. Youll be what you are. Dont get depressed if a facial is not getting the desired result. The problem could be something else. Find out the real culprit...
DULL SKIN:
Means you need to take more Vitamins C, D and E, via fruits and green veggies in your diet. Also, you need more fluids. Your water intake decides your skin texture. Bottoms up, then!
MELASMA:
Melasma (brown patches on face) could be a result of hormonal changes (pregnancy period), iron deficiency or liver problems. Dr Parashar says, Many parlours suggest laser therapy for melasma but the problem can crop up again. Take a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants and use ample sun protection.
PIGMENTATION:
It could be a result of sun exposure , poor diet, hormonal changes, diabetes, sudden weight loss and thyroid imbalance.
ACNE:
Acne is often a result of hormonal imbalance , poor diet, polycystic ovary disease, constipation and over-active sebaceous glands.
HAIR FALL:
Hair fall can be a result of some illness, abnormal thyroid gland, hormonal imbalance and fungal infections of the scalp.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
menstrual problems
Fight the pain
Do you dread that time of the month Heres how to deal with menstrual problems
ZEENIA BARIA
Theyre the most dreaded days of the month even the men in your lives will think twice before trying to cross your path! Millions of women across the globe suffer from several menstrual problems and while they cant be completely avoided, there are many things you can do to ease the pain and discomfort. The most common menstrual problems women face today are:
Menorrahgia: When there is an abnormal increase in bleeding.
Polymenorrhea: When a patient has frequent menses.
Oligomenorrhea: When there is scanty bleeding.
Delayed menstrual cycle.
According to gynaecologist, Dr Anjum Sayyed, some of the most common symptoms that women face during the menstrual cycle are Dysmenorrhea, which is a condition when a woman experiences cramps in the abdomen during the menstrual cycle, headaches, mood changes, vomiting, fever, giddiness and leg cramps. There are various ways to overcome these problems like a balanced diet, exercise, adequate vitamin supplements, and hormonal treatment , says Dr. Sayyed.
Birth control pills are composed of low dosages of female hormones, which create a false alarm of pregnancy and stop the ovaries from releasing new eggs. And so, birth control pills affect the menstrual cycle by decreasing the bleeding, decreasing dysmenorrhea and regularising it.
Your diet also plays a large role in determining hormonal and menstrual health. If your body is depleted in nutrients, you will have a difficult time maintaining balance both physically and emotionally, says dietician, Mehar Panjwani. Certain dietary guidelines are ideal for the continuing well being of all women, but particularly for those who suffer from Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS), endometriosis and dysmenorrheal, fibroids, cysts, PID and an irregular cycle. As a general guideline, you need to give yourself at least three months on your new diet to allow for any health changes. Lay more emphasis on whole foods (brown rice instead of white rice and brown flour rather than white flour) and minimally processed foods. Opt for make fresh vegetables, legumes like lentils, kidney beans, chick peas, lima beans, black beans, split peas, seeds, nuts and seasonal fruits should be taken in plenty since they are a good source of vitamins and fibre and will ensure adequate intake of vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium and potassium oils. Try and use unrefined oils like olive oil (virgin only), safflower oil and sesame oil for every day use. Particularly rich sources of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) are flaxseed (linseed), evening primrose, and the oil in fatty fish. Make sure you drink lots of water since it flushes out toxins from the body and helps prevents premenstrual headaches, which are related to dehydration.Go in for soups or blenderised, not strained vegetable juices. Besides being careful about your diet, its also important that you avoid alcohol, smoking , spicy foods, caffeinated drinks, refined and processed foods. Cut down on your salt and sugar intake, too. Include brisk walking and weight training in your daily routine it will help regularise the secretion of all the hormones responsible for menstruation thereby minimising the menstrual disorders, ends Mehar Panjwani.
Do you dread that time of the month Heres how to deal with menstrual problems
ZEENIA BARIA
Theyre the most dreaded days of the month even the men in your lives will think twice before trying to cross your path! Millions of women across the globe suffer from several menstrual problems and while they cant be completely avoided, there are many things you can do to ease the pain and discomfort. The most common menstrual problems women face today are:
Menorrahgia: When there is an abnormal increase in bleeding.
Polymenorrhea: When a patient has frequent menses.
Oligomenorrhea: When there is scanty bleeding.
Delayed menstrual cycle.
According to gynaecologist, Dr Anjum Sayyed, some of the most common symptoms that women face during the menstrual cycle are Dysmenorrhea, which is a condition when a woman experiences cramps in the abdomen during the menstrual cycle, headaches, mood changes, vomiting, fever, giddiness and leg cramps. There are various ways to overcome these problems like a balanced diet, exercise, adequate vitamin supplements, and hormonal treatment , says Dr. Sayyed.
Birth control pills are composed of low dosages of female hormones, which create a false alarm of pregnancy and stop the ovaries from releasing new eggs. And so, birth control pills affect the menstrual cycle by decreasing the bleeding, decreasing dysmenorrhea and regularising it.
Your diet also plays a large role in determining hormonal and menstrual health. If your body is depleted in nutrients, you will have a difficult time maintaining balance both physically and emotionally, says dietician, Mehar Panjwani. Certain dietary guidelines are ideal for the continuing well being of all women, but particularly for those who suffer from Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS), endometriosis and dysmenorrheal, fibroids, cysts, PID and an irregular cycle. As a general guideline, you need to give yourself at least three months on your new diet to allow for any health changes. Lay more emphasis on whole foods (brown rice instead of white rice and brown flour rather than white flour) and minimally processed foods. Opt for make fresh vegetables, legumes like lentils, kidney beans, chick peas, lima beans, black beans, split peas, seeds, nuts and seasonal fruits should be taken in plenty since they are a good source of vitamins and fibre and will ensure adequate intake of vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium and potassium oils. Try and use unrefined oils like olive oil (virgin only), safflower oil and sesame oil for every day use. Particularly rich sources of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids) are flaxseed (linseed), evening primrose, and the oil in fatty fish. Make sure you drink lots of water since it flushes out toxins from the body and helps prevents premenstrual headaches, which are related to dehydration.Go in for soups or blenderised, not strained vegetable juices. Besides being careful about your diet, its also important that you avoid alcohol, smoking , spicy foods, caffeinated drinks, refined and processed foods. Cut down on your salt and sugar intake, too. Include brisk walking and weight training in your daily routine it will help regularise the secretion of all the hormones responsible for menstruation thereby minimising the menstrual disorders, ends Mehar Panjwani.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Preventive health strategies
Preventive health strategies
Employers can play an important role in changing sedentary lifestyles of their employees by providing a place where employees can regularly get into fitness, says Dr Lalita Sekhar
Physical wellness can be achieved with the help of preventive health strategies such as:
Nutrition:
Eating a healthy balanced diet to avoid obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and heart disease.
Exercise:
To prevent osteoporosis and muscular pain and maintaining normal metabolic parameters by reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Immunization:
Is required for prevention of serious infective illnesses like hepatitis, tetanus, pneumonia and influenza.
Counselling:
Is done for screening familial diseases like breast, colon and prostate cancers. Genetically-prone individuals are offered tests such as mammogram and colonoscopy for early detection.
Lifestyle management:
Maintenance of weight according to age and build, avoiding excessive alcohol intake and tobacco consumption which can result in chronic liver disease, throat, lung and oesophageal cancers.
Preventive health checks
General health check:
Detailed history and physical test; routine blood, urine, stool tests, liver, kidney and pulmonary function tests and chest X-ray .
Well women check:
Pelvic ultrasound and PAP smear examination.
Heart check:
Lipid profile, ECG, TMT test and echocardiogram.
Cancer detection checks:
For people who have a strong family history of cancers; CEA for colon cancer, Ca 125 for ovarian cancer, and PSA for prostate cancer. People spend more time at work than home. Employers have an important role to play in changing employees sedentary lifestyles. They can provide a facilitating environment and infrastru-cture to motivate employees to undertake physical exercise and stress-relieving measures like yoga or gym, together with regular check-ups and counselling for preventive health care.
Employers can play an important role in changing sedentary lifestyles of their employees by providing a place where employees can regularly get into fitness, says Dr Lalita Sekhar
Physical wellness can be achieved with the help of preventive health strategies such as:
Nutrition:
Eating a healthy balanced diet to avoid obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and heart disease.
Exercise:
To prevent osteoporosis and muscular pain and maintaining normal metabolic parameters by reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Immunization:
Is required for prevention of serious infective illnesses like hepatitis, tetanus, pneumonia and influenza.
Counselling:
Is done for screening familial diseases like breast, colon and prostate cancers. Genetically-prone individuals are offered tests such as mammogram and colonoscopy for early detection.
Lifestyle management:
Maintenance of weight according to age and build, avoiding excessive alcohol intake and tobacco consumption which can result in chronic liver disease, throat, lung and oesophageal cancers.
Preventive health checks
General health check:
Detailed history and physical test; routine blood, urine, stool tests, liver, kidney and pulmonary function tests and chest X-ray .
Well women check:
Pelvic ultrasound and PAP smear examination.
Heart check:
Lipid profile, ECG, TMT test and echocardiogram.
Cancer detection checks:
For people who have a strong family history of cancers; CEA for colon cancer, Ca 125 for ovarian cancer, and PSA for prostate cancer. People spend more time at work than home. Employers have an important role to play in changing employees sedentary lifestyles. They can provide a facilitating environment and infrastru-cture to motivate employees to undertake physical exercise and stress-relieving measures like yoga or gym, together with regular check-ups and counselling for preventive health care.
URBAN LIFESTYLE AILMENTS
Urban tadka
The metro lifestyle could be the reason behind your continual body pains. Ever heard of fibromyalgia an urban ache
Muscular aches and pain are common among people across all age groups. But when this pain is persistent and hinders your dayto-day activities, it could become a cause for worry. Fibromyalgia may not be a household name, but it affects 30 per cent of the population. While fibro stands for fibrous body tissues, algia stands for aches. So, fibromyalgia essentially means continual pain in body tissues. Here's what the problem is all about and how to deal with it.
WHAT IS IT
Fibromyalgia is a muscular ailment that is characterised by muscle pains, fatigue and tenderness in areas such as the spine, neck, shoulder and hips (also known as tender points ). These points hurt throughout the day, especially when one is doing strenuous activities like lifting a heavy bucket, studying with the head bent down or working on the computer.
WHO CAN IT AFFECT
Of the 30 per cent of population affected by fibromyalgia, most are women. Among men it is most likely to affect those indulging in excessive physical activity revolving around one joint.
Even though it can occur at any age, people between the the age of 20-35 years are more prone to fibromyalgia. This especially includes working professionals who have sedentary lifestyles.
SYMPTOMS
Difficulty in sleeping Feeling tired even after sleeping all night Frequent headaches Numbness in the hands and feet Stiffness in the body Difficulty in waking up/laziness Sometimes it can result in irritation and severe depression in the patient Aches in different parts of the body, particularly near the upper back, shoulder blade and neck.
CAUSES
There is no absolute cause that can pinpoint why fibromyalgia occurs. But an accident, childbirth, stress or faulty sleeping habits can trigger it. It can also occur when the muscle or ligaments in the body are severely strained over a period of time. Research has found that deficiency of serotonin in the central nervous system leading to an imbalance is also responsible for its occurrence.
TREATMENT
There are a number of ways to deal with fibromyalgia. There are oral muscle relaxant pills and pain-relieving ointments that are prescribed to the patient.
If the fibromyalgia is on a more serious level, then regular physiotherapy is also administered.
In some cases when fibromyalgia leads to depression, anti-depressants are prescribed.
Clinical healing through heat or vibration treatment can also be given to the patient.
COPING WITH IT
Since fibromyalgia has no permanent cure, only the symptoms can be treated by effectively managing them. Heres how to cope with it.
Stretching exercises:
Fibromyalgia often causes stiffness. This can be treated by doing simple stretching exercises.
Try active stretching (stretching through yoga) instead of using gym equipments. You could even workout on the gym ball. However, make sure you inform your trainer about your weak spots.
Swimming:
Swimming relaxes the mind and energises the body. It will equally help stretch the entire body at one go.
Hot water bath:
If you feel lazy after waking up, massage your body with scented oils and have a hot water bath to refresh yourself.
Relaxation:
Take short breaks while working for a long period of time. This will calm down strained muscles.
The metro lifestyle could be the reason behind your continual body pains. Ever heard of fibromyalgia an urban ache
Muscular aches and pain are common among people across all age groups. But when this pain is persistent and hinders your dayto-day activities, it could become a cause for worry. Fibromyalgia may not be a household name, but it affects 30 per cent of the population. While fibro stands for fibrous body tissues, algia stands for aches. So, fibromyalgia essentially means continual pain in body tissues. Here's what the problem is all about and how to deal with it.
WHAT IS IT
Fibromyalgia is a muscular ailment that is characterised by muscle pains, fatigue and tenderness in areas such as the spine, neck, shoulder and hips (also known as tender points ). These points hurt throughout the day, especially when one is doing strenuous activities like lifting a heavy bucket, studying with the head bent down or working on the computer.
WHO CAN IT AFFECT
Of the 30 per cent of population affected by fibromyalgia, most are women. Among men it is most likely to affect those indulging in excessive physical activity revolving around one joint.
Even though it can occur at any age, people between the the age of 20-35 years are more prone to fibromyalgia. This especially includes working professionals who have sedentary lifestyles.
SYMPTOMS
Difficulty in sleeping Feeling tired even after sleeping all night Frequent headaches Numbness in the hands and feet Stiffness in the body Difficulty in waking up/laziness Sometimes it can result in irritation and severe depression in the patient Aches in different parts of the body, particularly near the upper back, shoulder blade and neck.
CAUSES
There is no absolute cause that can pinpoint why fibromyalgia occurs. But an accident, childbirth, stress or faulty sleeping habits can trigger it. It can also occur when the muscle or ligaments in the body are severely strained over a period of time. Research has found that deficiency of serotonin in the central nervous system leading to an imbalance is also responsible for its occurrence.
TREATMENT
There are a number of ways to deal with fibromyalgia. There are oral muscle relaxant pills and pain-relieving ointments that are prescribed to the patient.
If the fibromyalgia is on a more serious level, then regular physiotherapy is also administered.
In some cases when fibromyalgia leads to depression, anti-depressants are prescribed.
Clinical healing through heat or vibration treatment can also be given to the patient.
COPING WITH IT
Since fibromyalgia has no permanent cure, only the symptoms can be treated by effectively managing them. Heres how to cope with it.
Stretching exercises:
Fibromyalgia often causes stiffness. This can be treated by doing simple stretching exercises.
Try active stretching (stretching through yoga) instead of using gym equipments. You could even workout on the gym ball. However, make sure you inform your trainer about your weak spots.
Swimming:
Swimming relaxes the mind and energises the body. It will equally help stretch the entire body at one go.
Hot water bath:
If you feel lazy after waking up, massage your body with scented oils and have a hot water bath to refresh yourself.
Relaxation:
Take short breaks while working for a long period of time. This will calm down strained muscles.
How to reduce dark circles
How to reduce dark circles
Apply a mixture of almond oil and honey in the night before you sleep. This helps in lightening the skin tone. Another widely used remedy is putting tea bags on the affected area while taking a nap.
Late nights are another cause for dark circles make sure you get plenty of sleep and drink loads of water .
Applying peeled and grated potatoes under the eyes about three times a week also helps a lot. Dip cotton buds in rose water or cucumber juice and place it over the eyes for about 20 minutes. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, ensure that you slather on ample sunscreen to avoid making your dark circles worse.
Apply a mixture of almond oil and honey in the night before you sleep. This helps in lightening the skin tone. Another widely used remedy is putting tea bags on the affected area while taking a nap.
Late nights are another cause for dark circles make sure you get plenty of sleep and drink loads of water .
Applying peeled and grated potatoes under the eyes about three times a week also helps a lot. Dip cotton buds in rose water or cucumber juice and place it over the eyes for about 20 minutes. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, ensure that you slather on ample sunscreen to avoid making your dark circles worse.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Benefits of regular exercise
Benefits of regular exercise
Regular physical activities help fight obesity and control weight, strengthen muscles and bones, increase body strength and promote psychological well being, says Dr Tarun Sahni
Benefits of exercise:
It is a scientific fact that regular physical activity reduces the risk of:
Heart disease
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Colon cancer
Back pain
Feelings of depression
Dying prematurely Regular physical activity helps:
Control weight
Build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints
Increase strength
Promote psychological well-being . Disease specific health benefits of exercise:
Heart disease and stroke:
Regular exercise helps to strengthen the heart muscles, lower BP, raise highdensity lipoprotein (HDL) levels (good cholesterol) and lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (bad cholesterol), improve blood flow and increase the hearts working capacity.
High Blood Pressure:
Reduces blood pressure and body fat.
Diabetes:
Regular physical activity helps to prevent and control diabetes.
Obesity:
Reduces body fat by building muscle mass and improving the bodys ability to use calories. Physical activity combined with proper nutrition can help control weight and prevent obesity.
Back Pain:
Increases muscle strength and improves flexibility and posture
Osteoporosis:
Promotes bone formation and may prevent many forms of bone loss associated with aging.
Psychological Effects:
Improves mood and the way you feel about yourself.
Choice of methods to exercise:
The choices related to physical exercise are innumerable and can vary from a walk to yoga to dancing! Indulging in sports such as golf, squash, tennis, badminton and football provides enjoyment through the sport and through the camaraderie and healthy friendship circles that emerge. If you like to stick to the indoors you could perform aerobics, interval training, circuit training, kick boxing, relaxing stretch, Pilates, yoga and so on.
Regular physical activities help fight obesity and control weight, strengthen muscles and bones, increase body strength and promote psychological well being, says Dr Tarun Sahni
Benefits of exercise:
It is a scientific fact that regular physical activity reduces the risk of:
Heart disease
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Colon cancer
Back pain
Feelings of depression
Dying prematurely Regular physical activity helps:
Control weight
Build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints
Increase strength
Promote psychological well-being . Disease specific health benefits of exercise:
Heart disease and stroke:
Regular exercise helps to strengthen the heart muscles, lower BP, raise highdensity lipoprotein (HDL) levels (good cholesterol) and lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (bad cholesterol), improve blood flow and increase the hearts working capacity.
High Blood Pressure:
Reduces blood pressure and body fat.
Diabetes:
Regular physical activity helps to prevent and control diabetes.
Obesity:
Reduces body fat by building muscle mass and improving the bodys ability to use calories. Physical activity combined with proper nutrition can help control weight and prevent obesity.
Back Pain:
Increases muscle strength and improves flexibility and posture
Osteoporosis:
Promotes bone formation and may prevent many forms of bone loss associated with aging.
Psychological Effects:
Improves mood and the way you feel about yourself.
Choice of methods to exercise:
The choices related to physical exercise are innumerable and can vary from a walk to yoga to dancing! Indulging in sports such as golf, squash, tennis, badminton and football provides enjoyment through the sport and through the camaraderie and healthy friendship circles that emerge. If you like to stick to the indoors you could perform aerobics, interval training, circuit training, kick boxing, relaxing stretch, Pilates, yoga and so on.
SPREAD GOOD AROMAS AROUND YOU
Essential aromas
The fresher the aromas around you, the greater the benefits to well-being !
To perfume your towels, sheets, clothes, etc. place a few drops of your favourite essential oil onto a small piece of cloth and toss it into the washing machine while drying. Add 5 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup fabric softener and place in the centre cup of the wash. Add 10 drops of essential oil to a box of baking soda, mix, let it set for a day and then sprinkle over the carpets in your home. Let it set for an hour or more, then vacuum. An essential oil dropped on a radiator, scent ring, or light bulb will fill the room with a wonderful fragrance. When washing out the fridge, freezer, or oven, add 1 drop of lemon or orange essential oil to the final rinse water. To dispel household cooking odours, add a few drops of clove oil to a simmering pan. Put a few drops of your favourite essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in your vacuum cleaner bag. Lemon and pine are nice. Smelly feet or shoes can be remedied by either dropping a few drops of geranium essential oil directly into the shoes. Rosemary promotes alertness and stimulates memory. Inhale occasionally, during car trips. Place 1 or 2 drops of sleep enhancing oils such as chamomile, lavender, neroli, marjoram, on your pillow before retiring for restful sleep.
A blend of geranium, lavender, alleviate anxiety. Use in a room diffuser or 6-8 drops of this blend in the bath.
The fresher the aromas around you, the greater the benefits to well-being !
To perfume your towels, sheets, clothes, etc. place a few drops of your favourite essential oil onto a small piece of cloth and toss it into the washing machine while drying. Add 5 drops of essential oil to 1/4 cup fabric softener and place in the centre cup of the wash. Add 10 drops of essential oil to a box of baking soda, mix, let it set for a day and then sprinkle over the carpets in your home. Let it set for an hour or more, then vacuum. An essential oil dropped on a radiator, scent ring, or light bulb will fill the room with a wonderful fragrance. When washing out the fridge, freezer, or oven, add 1 drop of lemon or orange essential oil to the final rinse water. To dispel household cooking odours, add a few drops of clove oil to a simmering pan. Put a few drops of your favourite essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in your vacuum cleaner bag. Lemon and pine are nice. Smelly feet or shoes can be remedied by either dropping a few drops of geranium essential oil directly into the shoes. Rosemary promotes alertness and stimulates memory. Inhale occasionally, during car trips. Place 1 or 2 drops of sleep enhancing oils such as chamomile, lavender, neroli, marjoram, on your pillow before retiring for restful sleep.
A blend of geranium, lavender, alleviate anxiety. Use in a room diffuser or 6-8 drops of this blend in the bath.
Fight stress with yoga
Fight stress with yoga
Yoga workouts not only cure ailments and relax muscles, but also help you stay focussed at work and keep you stress free for a longer period, says Dr Surakshit Goswami
More yoga workouts for stress management.
Kati Chakrasana
Lie on back Fold legs at knee, heels touching hips Stretch arms outwards to shoulder level Bend legs to right; turn face to left Inhale; return to starting position Repeat on other side
Benefits:
Good for digestive system, liver and spleen.
Caution:
Avoid in case of recent abdominal or hip injury.
Pawanmuktasana
Lie down on back, legs outstretched Bend legs at knees; bring legs towards chest Exhale; pull legs further towards chest with hands, keeping fingers interlocked Lift head; try touching knee with chin Bring head to normal position, unlock hands and stretch legs again
Benefits:
Excellent for constipation, diabetes, colitis, and indigestion; cures asthma and uterine disorders; strengthens lungs and heart
Caution:
Avoid raising head if suffering from neckache or spondylosis.
Bhujangasana
Lie on stomach, forehead touching ground Place hands, palms facing down, under shoulders Raise elbows While inhaling, raise torso slowly, head and chest arching backwards Keep eyes closed Keep toes and heels joined Return to original position while exhaling and relax
Benefits:
Strengthens neck and spine; useful for kidney, liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung, heart and thyroid; counters backache
Caution:
Avoid if suffering from hernia
Mandukasana
Sit in vajrasana, clench fists keeping thumb inside and pressing with fingers Bring fists towards stomach, fingers facing down Press fists into side of navel; bend forward as far as you can Raise head while keeping eyes closed. Breathe normally Inhale as you slowly return
Benefits:
Excellent for diabetes, constipation, acidity, indigestion, lungs and heart
Caution:
Avoid if having backache and osteoporosis.
Yoga workouts not only cure ailments and relax muscles, but also help you stay focussed at work and keep you stress free for a longer period, says Dr Surakshit Goswami
More yoga workouts for stress management.
Kati Chakrasana
Lie on back Fold legs at knee, heels touching hips Stretch arms outwards to shoulder level Bend legs to right; turn face to left Inhale; return to starting position Repeat on other side
Benefits:
Good for digestive system, liver and spleen.
Caution:
Avoid in case of recent abdominal or hip injury.
Pawanmuktasana
Lie down on back, legs outstretched Bend legs at knees; bring legs towards chest Exhale; pull legs further towards chest with hands, keeping fingers interlocked Lift head; try touching knee with chin Bring head to normal position, unlock hands and stretch legs again
Benefits:
Excellent for constipation, diabetes, colitis, and indigestion; cures asthma and uterine disorders; strengthens lungs and heart
Caution:
Avoid raising head if suffering from neckache or spondylosis.
Bhujangasana
Lie on stomach, forehead touching ground Place hands, palms facing down, under shoulders Raise elbows While inhaling, raise torso slowly, head and chest arching backwards Keep eyes closed Keep toes and heels joined Return to original position while exhaling and relax
Benefits:
Strengthens neck and spine; useful for kidney, liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung, heart and thyroid; counters backache
Caution:
Avoid if suffering from hernia
Mandukasana
Sit in vajrasana, clench fists keeping thumb inside and pressing with fingers Bring fists towards stomach, fingers facing down Press fists into side of navel; bend forward as far as you can Raise head while keeping eyes closed. Breathe normally Inhale as you slowly return
Benefits:
Excellent for diabetes, constipation, acidity, indigestion, lungs and heart
Caution:
Avoid if having backache and osteoporosis.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Your monsoon workout
Your monsoon workout
Dont let the rains stop you from exercising. Just workout indoors
With the monsoons knocking on your door, an indoor workout is an ultra-effective way to convert your home into a gym.
The Home Strength Workout
Warm-up :
Start with a 5 minute warm-up by walking.
Home props
Two 500ml water bottles (As you get comfortable with the exercises , use dumbbells to increase resistance).
Here are 5 exercises to get you in shape
1. BENT-OVER ROWS (WORKS THE MID-BACK )
Stand tall lean slightly forward from your hips. Hold water bottles in each hand. Keeping elbows slightly bent, slowly, lift your hands squeezing your shoulderblades and then lower. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
2. WAIST BENDS (WORKS THE WAIST)
Stand tall with water bottles in each hand. Bend from your waist to the right and return back to the upright position. Repeat 12-16-counts and switch sides.
3. LEG EXTENSION (WORKS THE FRONT OF THE THIGH)
Sit in chair, abs in. Extend left leg straight out until it levels with the hip. Hold for 2 seconds, repeat with the other leg. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts on each leg.
4. CHAIR DIPS (WORKS THE TRICEPS)
With your back to a chair, stand with your feet in front of you. Grip the edge of the chair and bend your elbows so that you descend towards the floor. Use your triceps to push back up to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
5. WALL SIT (WORKS THE HIP AND THIGHS)
Lean with your back against the wall. Bend your knees forming a 90-degree angle and lower yourself as though you are sitting on an imaginary chair. Hold in this position for 30 to 50 seconds. (
Dont let the rains stop you from exercising. Just workout indoors
With the monsoons knocking on your door, an indoor workout is an ultra-effective way to convert your home into a gym.
The Home Strength Workout
Warm-up :
Start with a 5 minute warm-up by walking.
Home props
Two 500ml water bottles (As you get comfortable with the exercises , use dumbbells to increase resistance).
Here are 5 exercises to get you in shape
1. BENT-OVER ROWS (WORKS THE MID-BACK )
Stand tall lean slightly forward from your hips. Hold water bottles in each hand. Keeping elbows slightly bent, slowly, lift your hands squeezing your shoulderblades and then lower. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
2. WAIST BENDS (WORKS THE WAIST)
Stand tall with water bottles in each hand. Bend from your waist to the right and return back to the upright position. Repeat 12-16-counts and switch sides.
3. LEG EXTENSION (WORKS THE FRONT OF THE THIGH)
Sit in chair, abs in. Extend left leg straight out until it levels with the hip. Hold for 2 seconds, repeat with the other leg. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts on each leg.
4. CHAIR DIPS (WORKS THE TRICEPS)
With your back to a chair, stand with your feet in front of you. Grip the edge of the chair and bend your elbows so that you descend towards the floor. Use your triceps to push back up to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
5. WALL SIT (WORKS THE HIP AND THIGHS)
Lean with your back against the wall. Bend your knees forming a 90-degree angle and lower yourself as though you are sitting on an imaginary chair. Hold in this position for 30 to 50 seconds. (
Your monsoon workout
Your monsoon workout
Dont let the rains stop you from exercising. Just workout indoors
With the monsoons knocking on your door, an indoor workout is an ultra-effective way to convert your home into a gym.
The Home Strength Workout
Warm-up :
Start with a 5 minute warm-up by walking.
Home props
Two 500ml water bottles (As you get comfortable with the exercises , use dumbbells to increase resistance).
Here are 5 exercises to get you in shape
1. BENT-OVER ROWS (WORKS THE MID-BACK )
Stand tall lean slightly forward from your hips. Hold water bottles in each hand. Keeping elbows slightly bent, slowly, lift your hands squeezing your shoulderblades and then lower. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
2. WAIST BENDS (WORKS THE WAIST)
Stand tall with water bottles in each hand. Bend from your waist to the right and return back to the upright position. Repeat 12-16-counts and switch sides.
3. LEG EXTENSION (WORKS THE FRONT OF THE THIGH)
Sit in chair, abs in. Extend left leg straight out until it levels with the hip. Hold for 2 seconds, repeat with the other leg. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts on each leg.
4. CHAIR DIPS (WORKS THE TRICEPS)
With your back to a chair, stand with your feet in front of you. Grip the edge of the chair and bend your elbows so that you descend towards the floor. Use your triceps to push back up to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
5. WALL SIT (WORKS THE HIP AND THIGHS)
Lean with your back against the wall. Bend your knees forming a 90-degree angle and lower yourself as though you are sitting on an imaginary chair. Hold in this position for 30 to 50 seconds. (
Dont let the rains stop you from exercising. Just workout indoors
With the monsoons knocking on your door, an indoor workout is an ultra-effective way to convert your home into a gym.
The Home Strength Workout
Warm-up :
Start with a 5 minute warm-up by walking.
Home props
Two 500ml water bottles (As you get comfortable with the exercises , use dumbbells to increase resistance).
Here are 5 exercises to get you in shape
1. BENT-OVER ROWS (WORKS THE MID-BACK )
Stand tall lean slightly forward from your hips. Hold water bottles in each hand. Keeping elbows slightly bent, slowly, lift your hands squeezing your shoulderblades and then lower. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
2. WAIST BENDS (WORKS THE WAIST)
Stand tall with water bottles in each hand. Bend from your waist to the right and return back to the upright position. Repeat 12-16-counts and switch sides.
3. LEG EXTENSION (WORKS THE FRONT OF THE THIGH)
Sit in chair, abs in. Extend left leg straight out until it levels with the hip. Hold for 2 seconds, repeat with the other leg. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts on each leg.
4. CHAIR DIPS (WORKS THE TRICEPS)
With your back to a chair, stand with your feet in front of you. Grip the edge of the chair and bend your elbows so that you descend towards the floor. Use your triceps to push back up to starting position. Do 2 sets of 12-16 counts.
5. WALL SIT (WORKS THE HIP AND THIGHS)
Lean with your back against the wall. Bend your knees forming a 90-degree angle and lower yourself as though you are sitting on an imaginary chair. Hold in this position for 30 to 50 seconds. (
Friday, June 19, 2009
4 yoga techniques to keep you fit
4 yoga techniques to keep you fit
Practicing these asanas will keep you safe from several physical illnesses such as, obesity, asthma, digetive problems, heart diseases and hernia says Dr Surakshit Goswami
Following yoga workouts help you beat stress and stay fit.
Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit in padmasana Keep neck straight Place hands on knees, eyes gently closed Exhale forcefully while pulling stomach in Repeat till tired
Benefits:
Fights obesity; eliminates toxins from air passages; combats asthma and arthritis; massages abdominal muscles and organs
Caution:
Exhale slowly if you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia
Tadasana
Stand erect, heels together Place hands on chest, fingers interlocked Stretch arms ahead; slowly raise them upwards while inhaling Raise heels, stand on toes; stretch entire body upwards Breathe gently Unlock fingers; bring arms down to your sides and relax
Benefits:
Strengthens spine, ankles, knees, thighs, abdomen and shoulders; relieves physical exhaustion. Increases height
Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined Interlock fingers; slowly raise hands upwards Turn left at the waist Hold position breathing normally Inhale and bring body back to erect position Repeat for right side
Benefits:
Bolsters digestive system (stomach, liver and intestines); tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab
Uttanpadasana
Stretch body; keep it taut Inhale; raise legs slowly, placing pressure on hands Hold legs at 60 angle from ground; breathe normally Feel maximum pressure on legs and abdomen Do not tense face or neck Return to original position
Benefits:
Energises digestive organs, lung, heart, stomach, liver and intestine; counters constipation, flab around belly and low blood pressure
Practicing these asanas will keep you safe from several physical illnesses such as, obesity, asthma, digetive problems, heart diseases and hernia says Dr Surakshit Goswami
Following yoga workouts help you beat stress and stay fit.
Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit in padmasana Keep neck straight Place hands on knees, eyes gently closed Exhale forcefully while pulling stomach in Repeat till tired
Benefits:
Fights obesity; eliminates toxins from air passages; combats asthma and arthritis; massages abdominal muscles and organs
Caution:
Exhale slowly if you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia
Tadasana
Stand erect, heels together Place hands on chest, fingers interlocked Stretch arms ahead; slowly raise them upwards while inhaling Raise heels, stand on toes; stretch entire body upwards Breathe gently Unlock fingers; bring arms down to your sides and relax
Benefits:
Strengthens spine, ankles, knees, thighs, abdomen and shoulders; relieves physical exhaustion. Increases height
Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined Interlock fingers; slowly raise hands upwards Turn left at the waist Hold position breathing normally Inhale and bring body back to erect position Repeat for right side
Benefits:
Bolsters digestive system (stomach, liver and intestines); tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab
Uttanpadasana
Stretch body; keep it taut Inhale; raise legs slowly, placing pressure on hands Hold legs at 60 angle from ground; breathe normally Feel maximum pressure on legs and abdomen Do not tense face or neck Return to original position
Benefits:
Energises digestive organs, lung, heart, stomach, liver and intestine; counters constipation, flab around belly and low blood pressure
SPINE TUNING
SPINE TUNING
A firm posture and a strong, supple back are just two asanas away. So, get started on this yogic regimen to bring sexy back!
POSTURE POINTERS
To stand as well as walk correctly, ensure that your toes always point forward; not outwards or inwards.
To sit in a chair correctly, place your feet flat on the floor. Check that your thighs are parallel to the floor, and your knees and hips are on the same level.
A firm mattress will help keep your spine aligned.
PADHASTASANA
Stand erect, inhale and raise your hands. Your arms must be straight and should brush against your ears. As you exhale, bend your body both forward and downward . Place your palms on the floor beside your feet. Try to touch your forehead to your knees, without bending them. Breathe normally. Hold the posture for as long as you can, and then return to base position.
Benefits:
Strengthens the back and abdomen; exercises the spine; boosts blood flow to the scalp, thus promoting hair growth
BHUJANGASANA
Lie on your stomach with your forehead touching the ground. Place your hands on the ground, palms down and tucked under the shoulders. Raise your elbows a little. While inhaling, raise the front part of your torso. Very slowly, raise your head and chest upwards, arching back, without lifting your navel off the floor. Focus attention on your back. Keep your toes and heels joined. Hold the position for as long as you can, and breathe normally. Return to base position while exhaling and relax. Repeat three times.
CAUTION:
Not recommended if you suffer from hernia
Benefits:
Helps strengthen and make the neck and spine more flexible; counters backache ; boosts liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung and heart functioning
A firm posture and a strong, supple back are just two asanas away. So, get started on this yogic regimen to bring sexy back!
POSTURE POINTERS
To stand as well as walk correctly, ensure that your toes always point forward; not outwards or inwards.
To sit in a chair correctly, place your feet flat on the floor. Check that your thighs are parallel to the floor, and your knees and hips are on the same level.
A firm mattress will help keep your spine aligned.
PADHASTASANA
Stand erect, inhale and raise your hands. Your arms must be straight and should brush against your ears. As you exhale, bend your body both forward and downward . Place your palms on the floor beside your feet. Try to touch your forehead to your knees, without bending them. Breathe normally. Hold the posture for as long as you can, and then return to base position.
Benefits:
Strengthens the back and abdomen; exercises the spine; boosts blood flow to the scalp, thus promoting hair growth
BHUJANGASANA
Lie on your stomach with your forehead touching the ground. Place your hands on the ground, palms down and tucked under the shoulders. Raise your elbows a little. While inhaling, raise the front part of your torso. Very slowly, raise your head and chest upwards, arching back, without lifting your navel off the floor. Focus attention on your back. Keep your toes and heels joined. Hold the position for as long as you can, and breathe normally. Return to base position while exhaling and relax. Repeat three times.
CAUTION:
Not recommended if you suffer from hernia
Benefits:
Helps strengthen and make the neck and spine more flexible; counters backache ; boosts liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung and heart functioning
Monday, June 15, 2009
Light The Torch With Practice Of Yoga
Light The Torch With Practice Of Yoga
Nilkanth Maladkar
Yoga can help establish connection between mind and body through the nervous system, aided by spiritual awareness. Cultivating spiritual consciousness requires the activation of the kundalini which is the Vagus tenth cranial nerve lying dormant in the Manipur chakra. A person meditates in stage-wise inverted poses such as the following : Shoulder-Stand Pose, Pelvic Pose, Plough Pose, Corpse Pose and the final Lotus Pose.
In the Shoulder-Stand pose, due to the vertical position of the legs and the trunk, the venous blood drains away by the force of gravity to the right side of the heart and then to the lungs for purification . The purification of the entire blood circulating in the body is the first stage of operation . In the Pelvic pose, the blood accumulates in the pelvic region; the local blood vessels get dilated and flush the gonads situated in this region. Due to gravity, the venous blood returns to the heart. There is a propelling of the whole process enhancing the secretion of sexual glands. It delays the ageing process and strengthens the body for meditation.
In the Plough Pose, there is a stretching of the vertebral column due to which the spinal cord located inside it and also the nerves issuing from it are stretched. It results in an indirect pull on the sympathetic cords that lie on both sides of the spine in the abdomen and are connected with the spinal cord by nervous strands.
Stimulation of the sympathetic system tones up the involuntary organs of the body. A chain of these activities finally activates the kundalini, directing it through a path going to the spinal cord to awaken spiritual consciousness . Thus, we tone up the spinal cord to make it fit to receive and to retain the subtle unconscious impressions dramatically . Along with kundalini, the other six chakras also get activated and start imparting the knowledge of eternal life, Brahmn. However, at the end of inverted poses, the Corpse pose is essential to give recuperative time to the body muscles for relaxation as well as to give the body conscious rest whereby one can vitalise and control the activities of all involuntary organs of the body.
The Lotus Pose is the ultimate meditative pose in which case the foot lock resembles the petals of the lotus due to which flexors of the lower extremities are under pressure as a result of contraction. Therefore arterial blood gets accumulated in the organs of the pelvic region toning up the function of the gonads followed by absorption of the secretions . Now, the person can control his feelings and keep the mind away from worldly temptations . The mind is trained and stabilised to receive the waves of inner voices. One can concentrate on receiving Divine messages . This way, spiritual consciousness is awakened.
As soon as the kundalini is activated , there is a rise in a persons energy level. He can utilise this energy wherever he desires. This is not a miracle but a process affecting a reversal and reabsorption of secreted elixir of life followed by spiritual consciousness . It is an ecstatic breakthrough . If a person follows explicit perfection in the art of reverse yogic poses, he can light the torch of spirituality to reveal the path to the inner soul and the eternal world. One begins to experience the truth of Soham Brahmashri, meaning am that Non-Destructible World .
The writer is a scientist. E-mail : maladkarun@gmail .com
Nilkanth Maladkar
Yoga can help establish connection between mind and body through the nervous system, aided by spiritual awareness. Cultivating spiritual consciousness requires the activation of the kundalini which is the Vagus tenth cranial nerve lying dormant in the Manipur chakra. A person meditates in stage-wise inverted poses such as the following : Shoulder-Stand Pose, Pelvic Pose, Plough Pose, Corpse Pose and the final Lotus Pose.
In the Shoulder-Stand pose, due to the vertical position of the legs and the trunk, the venous blood drains away by the force of gravity to the right side of the heart and then to the lungs for purification . The purification of the entire blood circulating in the body is the first stage of operation . In the Pelvic pose, the blood accumulates in the pelvic region; the local blood vessels get dilated and flush the gonads situated in this region. Due to gravity, the venous blood returns to the heart. There is a propelling of the whole process enhancing the secretion of sexual glands. It delays the ageing process and strengthens the body for meditation.
In the Plough Pose, there is a stretching of the vertebral column due to which the spinal cord located inside it and also the nerves issuing from it are stretched. It results in an indirect pull on the sympathetic cords that lie on both sides of the spine in the abdomen and are connected with the spinal cord by nervous strands.
Stimulation of the sympathetic system tones up the involuntary organs of the body. A chain of these activities finally activates the kundalini, directing it through a path going to the spinal cord to awaken spiritual consciousness . Thus, we tone up the spinal cord to make it fit to receive and to retain the subtle unconscious impressions dramatically . Along with kundalini, the other six chakras also get activated and start imparting the knowledge of eternal life, Brahmn. However, at the end of inverted poses, the Corpse pose is essential to give recuperative time to the body muscles for relaxation as well as to give the body conscious rest whereby one can vitalise and control the activities of all involuntary organs of the body.
The Lotus Pose is the ultimate meditative pose in which case the foot lock resembles the petals of the lotus due to which flexors of the lower extremities are under pressure as a result of contraction. Therefore arterial blood gets accumulated in the organs of the pelvic region toning up the function of the gonads followed by absorption of the secretions . Now, the person can control his feelings and keep the mind away from worldly temptations . The mind is trained and stabilised to receive the waves of inner voices. One can concentrate on receiving Divine messages . This way, spiritual consciousness is awakened.
As soon as the kundalini is activated , there is a rise in a persons energy level. He can utilise this energy wherever he desires. This is not a miracle but a process affecting a reversal and reabsorption of secreted elixir of life followed by spiritual consciousness . It is an ecstatic breakthrough . If a person follows explicit perfection in the art of reverse yogic poses, he can light the torch of spirituality to reveal the path to the inner soul and the eternal world. One begins to experience the truth of Soham Brahmashri, meaning am that Non-Destructible World .
The writer is a scientist. E-mail : maladkarun@gmail .com
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Heart attack! How to react
Body BASICS
Heart attack! How to react
15 minutes could make all the difference between life and death
When confronted with someone having a heart attack, do not panic. A heart attack is a condition when blood flow to the heart gets blocked because of clot formation in an artery. If the flow of blood is not restored quickly, then due to lack of oxygen and nutrients the heart muscle becomes irreversibly damaged. This can lead to death.
Heart attack is a state of medical emergency. The first hour is referred as Golden hour and treatment is most effective.
MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS ARE:
Heaviness or discomfort in the chest
Shortness of breath
Pain radiating to shoulders and/or jaw
Dizziness
Nausea
A low pulse
Sweating
Vomiting
It is often observed that the symptoms can be vague and mild, but it is important to keep in mind that heart attacks producing no symptoms or only mild symptoms can be just as life-threatening as those with severe chest pain. You shouldnt ignore the symptoms attributing them to indigestion, fatigue or stress as it delays in getting prompt medical attention.
YOUR FIRST STEPS
STEP 1 -
Make the patient lie down in comfortable position and give him an aspirin to chew. (It reduces mortality by 15 per cent, but dont take aspirin if you are allergic.)
STEP 2 -
Right away, call for an ambulance to take the patient to the hospital. (Keep emergency phone numbers in your
vicinity.)
STEP 3-
If the onset is sudden , with a full blown cardio-pulmonary arrest (where the heart stops beating), do a Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), even if you are untrained. Imperfect CPR is far better than no CPR at all.
CPR STEPS
Place the patient on his back.
Put heel of your hand midway on the patients chest. Push down so that the chest is pressed inward one-and-a-half inches. Perform 100 pumps per minute (almost two per seconds) until help arrives.
STEP 4 -
As soon as the patient reaches the hospital, get an electrocardiogram (ECG) done.
STEP 5 -
After confirming the diagnosis the patient is given injectable medicines (thrombolytics or clot-busters ) to dissolve any dangerous clots (these can also be given in the ambulance on the way to the hospital). Early recognition helps; every 15 minutes wasted leads to a 30 per cent increase in mortality rate. If the delay is beyond four hours, clot buster drugs do not work. (
Heart attack! How to react
15 minutes could make all the difference between life and death
When confronted with someone having a heart attack, do not panic. A heart attack is a condition when blood flow to the heart gets blocked because of clot formation in an artery. If the flow of blood is not restored quickly, then due to lack of oxygen and nutrients the heart muscle becomes irreversibly damaged. This can lead to death.
Heart attack is a state of medical emergency. The first hour is referred as Golden hour and treatment is most effective.
MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS ARE:
Heaviness or discomfort in the chest
Shortness of breath
Pain radiating to shoulders and/or jaw
Dizziness
Nausea
A low pulse
Sweating
Vomiting
It is often observed that the symptoms can be vague and mild, but it is important to keep in mind that heart attacks producing no symptoms or only mild symptoms can be just as life-threatening as those with severe chest pain. You shouldnt ignore the symptoms attributing them to indigestion, fatigue or stress as it delays in getting prompt medical attention.
YOUR FIRST STEPS
STEP 1 -
Make the patient lie down in comfortable position and give him an aspirin to chew. (It reduces mortality by 15 per cent, but dont take aspirin if you are allergic.)
STEP 2 -
Right away, call for an ambulance to take the patient to the hospital. (Keep emergency phone numbers in your
vicinity.)
STEP 3-
If the onset is sudden , with a full blown cardio-pulmonary arrest (where the heart stops beating), do a Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), even if you are untrained. Imperfect CPR is far better than no CPR at all.
CPR STEPS
Place the patient on his back.
Put heel of your hand midway on the patients chest. Push down so that the chest is pressed inward one-and-a-half inches. Perform 100 pumps per minute (almost two per seconds) until help arrives.
STEP 4 -
As soon as the patient reaches the hospital, get an electrocardiogram (ECG) done.
STEP 5 -
After confirming the diagnosis the patient is given injectable medicines (thrombolytics or clot-busters ) to dissolve any dangerous clots (these can also be given in the ambulance on the way to the hospital). Early recognition helps; every 15 minutes wasted leads to a 30 per cent increase in mortality rate. If the delay is beyond four hours, clot buster drugs do not work. (
Saturday, June 13, 2009
14 ways to stay motivated…
| 14 ways to stay motivated… | ||
| Jamal Shaikh | ||
| May 25, 2009 | ||
Of the few thousand-odd e-mails and letters that Men’s Health receives every month, a sizeable number have little to do with health and fitness, nutrition, sex or any other core topic that the magazine talks about. Instead, they’re questions on resolve, motivation and on how to keep going when the will just isn’t strong enough. Glaring examples of failed fortitude are everywhere, most of all in membership registers of gyms that make their money from people whose enthusiasm dies out after a brief spell. To ensure you don’t add to the casualty count, here are 14 of MH’s choicest tips that will keep you going on and on and on… gender no bar! 1. Blackmail yourself 2. Pre-pack your gym bag 3. Make a workout playlist 4. Pick favourites 5. Buy a year’s worth of proteins 6. Squat 7. Never go alone 8. Do a daily gut check 9. Go public 10. Set small challenges 11. Do a body-fat test 12. Make a “friendly” bet 13. Tie exercise to health 14. Write up your results | ||
Trichology: Care for your hair
Trichology: Care for your hair
Trichologist, Dr Sonal Shah, discusses hair thinning in women
Do you notice that your hair is getting thinner and thinner Does the top of your head seem to be balding Do you find many strands of hair left behind in your comb
Yes, men are not the only ones who go bald, though this was more common earlier. Today, trichologists are noticing an increasing number of women losing hair and that too, at a very young age... Hair is a womans crowning glory and having a crown thats falling apart can cause anxiety and stress in women.
In India and elsewhere in the world, a lot of importance is attached to womens hair. The hair care industry has grown because of this most hair care products are meant for women. This is evident from the advertisements for hair care products. More women, than men, are featured to sell a product. Likewise , the largest consumer base for these products also comprises more women than men. In fact, all of this contributes to a vicious cycle. The significance of womens hair in their beauty is sold to the media and the media, through its advertising, further strengthens the image of a beauty with long, lustrous hair.
There is no doubt that in India , a womans hair is definitely one of her most significant assets. Despite the fact that short hair is often more manageable , as well as very chic, most women hesitate to let go of those long tresses.
Given the importance of hair, women justifiably panic when they start losing their hair. A woman who notices that she is balding will be in agony.
How does female pattern thinning differ from male pattern thinning
In men, the pattern of hair loss is characteristically Ushaped . It starts with thinning on the crown or a receding hairline, which advances to thinning on the top of the head. In women, androgenetic alopecia appears as diffuse hair loss or thinning in the fronto-vortex region (ie, on top of the frontal region) and the frontal region is spared in most cases. This hair loss happens at a slower rate than in men and it happens at a much later time in life. But age does not make it less traumatic for a woman, especially if she has had luxuriant hair before.
When and why it starts
The crux of the problem lies with our hormones. Women have both the male hormone androgen (which is responsible for hair growth all over the body) and the female hormone oestrogen. In men, androgen , ironically, causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to this kind of baldness. This is known as androgenetic alopecia. Fortunately for women, the hormone oestrogen counteracts and stops this negative action of androgen.
However, during periods, when the oestrogen level falls, androgen starts attacking the hair follicles and as the hair follicles are destroyed, hair starts to thin. For example, before menopause, when the production of oestrogen is high, this hormone has a protective effect against the small amount of testosterone that women also produce. After menopause, when the production of the female hormone oestrogen slows down, female pattern thinning in women begins . This may also be triggered by stress, consumption of oral contraceptives, hysterectomy , childbirth or hormone-replacement therapy.
How quickly does the hair thin
The overall rate of hair loss varies from person to person. It is even possible to have some spontaneous but temporary hair regrowth. While some women might take 25 years to reach significant baldness, others might take just 5 years to go bald. Moreover , hormone production varies with the season. Winter is the worst period as testosterone production increases . (Testosterone, when converted to DHT, adversely affects the hair follicles). Added to this, women have a monthly hormone cycle.
Treatment
Unlike in men, where areas of skin may become completely devoid of hair, female pattern thinning, most often, involves diffuse thinning and production of thinner hair fibres. There is less destruction of the hair follicles in specific regions of the skin.
Natural treatments are always the best, as hormone-replacement therapy, which is sometimes touted as an option for hair regrowth, generally has side effects. Dong Quai Complex, made from a plant called Dong Quai, (which has natural oestrogen), has had great results when thinning is due to low oestrogen levels. High androgen levels can be treated by Serenoa Complex (composed of saw palmetto fruit and a stem called horsetail ). Of course, it is best to get your hair condition and its case accurately diagnosed through a tricho-check .
So, the next time you look in the mirror and find your hair growing horribly thin, dont hide behind a scarf in embarrassment . Trichology exists so that you dont have to suffer in silence and in shame. There are some foods which have great estrogenic properties and form a great support system to the treatment. They are: Soya Walnuts Flex Seeds Green tea
Dr. Sonal Shah is one of the worlds leading trichologists and the pioneers of trichology in India and consults at Richfeel Trichology Centre. For further details, contact : 011-45608967 /68/69 (Rajouri Garden); 011-46573434 /37/38 (Lajpat Nagar ); 011-40571457 /9268659088 (C.R.Park ), 0124 - 4229434 / 6469666 (Gurgaon) or 0120 - 4242444 (Noida) or visit our website: www.richfeel.com
Trichologist, Dr Sonal Shah, discusses hair thinning in women
Do you notice that your hair is getting thinner and thinner Does the top of your head seem to be balding Do you find many strands of hair left behind in your comb
Yes, men are not the only ones who go bald, though this was more common earlier. Today, trichologists are noticing an increasing number of women losing hair and that too, at a very young age... Hair is a womans crowning glory and having a crown thats falling apart can cause anxiety and stress in women.
In India and elsewhere in the world, a lot of importance is attached to womens hair. The hair care industry has grown because of this most hair care products are meant for women. This is evident from the advertisements for hair care products. More women, than men, are featured to sell a product. Likewise , the largest consumer base for these products also comprises more women than men. In fact, all of this contributes to a vicious cycle. The significance of womens hair in their beauty is sold to the media and the media, through its advertising, further strengthens the image of a beauty with long, lustrous hair.
There is no doubt that in India , a womans hair is definitely one of her most significant assets. Despite the fact that short hair is often more manageable , as well as very chic, most women hesitate to let go of those long tresses.
Given the importance of hair, women justifiably panic when they start losing their hair. A woman who notices that she is balding will be in agony.
How does female pattern thinning differ from male pattern thinning
In men, the pattern of hair loss is characteristically Ushaped . It starts with thinning on the crown or a receding hairline, which advances to thinning on the top of the head. In women, androgenetic alopecia appears as diffuse hair loss or thinning in the fronto-vortex region (ie, on top of the frontal region) and the frontal region is spared in most cases. This hair loss happens at a slower rate than in men and it happens at a much later time in life. But age does not make it less traumatic for a woman, especially if she has had luxuriant hair before.
When and why it starts
The crux of the problem lies with our hormones. Women have both the male hormone androgen (which is responsible for hair growth all over the body) and the female hormone oestrogen. In men, androgen , ironically, causes the destruction of the hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to this kind of baldness. This is known as androgenetic alopecia. Fortunately for women, the hormone oestrogen counteracts and stops this negative action of androgen.
However, during periods, when the oestrogen level falls, androgen starts attacking the hair follicles and as the hair follicles are destroyed, hair starts to thin. For example, before menopause, when the production of oestrogen is high, this hormone has a protective effect against the small amount of testosterone that women also produce. After menopause, when the production of the female hormone oestrogen slows down, female pattern thinning in women begins . This may also be triggered by stress, consumption of oral contraceptives, hysterectomy , childbirth or hormone-replacement therapy.
How quickly does the hair thin
The overall rate of hair loss varies from person to person. It is even possible to have some spontaneous but temporary hair regrowth. While some women might take 25 years to reach significant baldness, others might take just 5 years to go bald. Moreover , hormone production varies with the season. Winter is the worst period as testosterone production increases . (Testosterone, when converted to DHT, adversely affects the hair follicles). Added to this, women have a monthly hormone cycle.
Treatment
Unlike in men, where areas of skin may become completely devoid of hair, female pattern thinning, most often, involves diffuse thinning and production of thinner hair fibres. There is less destruction of the hair follicles in specific regions of the skin.
Natural treatments are always the best, as hormone-replacement therapy, which is sometimes touted as an option for hair regrowth, generally has side effects. Dong Quai Complex, made from a plant called Dong Quai, (which has natural oestrogen), has had great results when thinning is due to low oestrogen levels. High androgen levels can be treated by Serenoa Complex (composed of saw palmetto fruit and a stem called horsetail ). Of course, it is best to get your hair condition and its case accurately diagnosed through a tricho-check .
So, the next time you look in the mirror and find your hair growing horribly thin, dont hide behind a scarf in embarrassment . Trichology exists so that you dont have to suffer in silence and in shame. There are some foods which have great estrogenic properties and form a great support system to the treatment. They are: Soya Walnuts Flex Seeds Green tea
Dr. Sonal Shah is one of the worlds leading trichologists and the pioneers of trichology in India and consults at Richfeel Trichology Centre. For further details, contact : 011-45608967 /68/69 (Rajouri Garden); 011-46573434 /37/38 (Lajpat Nagar ); 011-40571457 /9268659088 (C.R.Park ), 0124 - 4229434 / 6469666 (Gurgaon) or 0120 - 4242444 (Noida) or visit our website: www.richfeel.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)