We keep moving forward in life because that’s the only option left with us. We may meet new challenges and new obstacles on our path. In this festival of light, may the Divine show us the path, lead us through darkness and protect us in this journey of life and self discovery.
Dear readers, wishing you and your loved ones, a prosperous, joyful and healthy Diwali 2024.
Thanks for reading.
Love and light 🙏
‘Monkey mind’, yes, that’s what the Buddhists called our wondering mind. The more you try to control, the more it wanders. This is the nature of the human mind. It can never remain still. During the day, whenever, we try to be still, the mind races ahead to the future or returns to the past in some old memories. Our mind is always thinking of something or another. Distractions like tasks, jobs, people around, day-to-day stress, entertainment, and social media, all add up to the flickering nature of the mind. Therefore, let’s explore why our mind behaves this way and how we can try to control it, if at all, it’s possible:
1.A wandering mind is quite a normal behaviour and characteristic in nature. The attention shift of the mind from one thought to another is involuntary before even we notice it. In a monotonous daily activity of a boring nature, like studying, in the classroom in case of a student, or doing daily chores, it can happen voluntarily.
2.Studies show that the mind wonders mainly for two reasons: Either the work or activity, we have been doing is not engaging and monotonous and another reason can be that facing obstacles or hard task causes worry and anxiousness.
Sometimes, Scientists, link the wandering nature to creativity, explorative and intuitive mind. However, this becomes problematic. In those times, when we are supposed to be working, we lose focus and attention or think in bed when we are supposed to sleep. Oftentimes, the mind is either daydreaming, imagining things, anxious thoughts worrying about the future or replaying some old memories, stuck in some emotional thoughts.
3.What can be the possible causes of a wondering mind?
*Anxiousness and worrying mind.
*Boring and repetitive activities.
*External distractions like our mobile phones and other gadgets, people around, noises, social media.
*Internal distractions like stress, anger, hurt, sadness. Physical discomfort like fatigue, pain, hunger.
*People with attention deficit disorder have a hyperactive mind.
4.Self-awareness: How can I realise that I have a wondering mind?
Firstly, being aware of your own mental state. Most of the time, if you find yourself, overthinking, worrying, and ruminating thoughts.
Your mind is often, exhausted, being engaged in unproductive thoughts, unable to find solutions to problems or losing your spontaneous problem-solving ability.
Being self-aware, in such a state of mind, can help us to bring about change in our mental state.
5.Taming a wondering mind can be a very difficult task. But, with practice and consistency, everything is possible.
a)Meditation is an effective tool. Again, meditation is’nt easy. Perhaps, sitting still in a quiet place, trying to focus the mind is a hardest task. Focusing on breathing is a commonest method. Other methods can be, focusing or imagining an object like sun, moon, or the ocean. Using a guided mediation or listening to nature sounds, chanting of mantras can be effective.
b)Journaling is a powerful tool to clear the mind. Noting down daily thoughts, thoughts related to job, loved ones, family, future goals, holiday plans, emotional pain, feelings of old memories can be very useful to clear the mind clutter. Writing down can self-help to acknowledge the bothering thoughts and refocus the mind to concentrate on the task at hand.
c)Physical activity like going for a walk, physical movement of the body, legs and hands, watering your balcony plants, spending time in nature, light exercises can be very helpful to reset the mind. Playing an instrument, or listening to a music piece can be rejuvenating to refocus the mind too.
d)Sleep and adequate rest are necessary to clear the mind clutter. Getting a proper goodnight sleep and following a daily sleep routine is mandatory. Making a conscious effort to keep away from our mobile phones, social media distractions, caffeine free, emotional disturbing thoughts, 2-3 hours prior going to bed, can give an adequate sleep.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
Peace and love 🙏
3.Goosebumps are associated with other symptoms in different situations and medical-related conditions.
For the case of :
*Hypothermia, Cold temperature, along with goosebumps, you may experience shivers, pale skin and the urge to be in a warm place.
*Strong emotional responses like fear, nervousness, excitement, sexual desire, and thrilling response: The body reacts with goosebumps, fasting heart rate, fast breathing, tears, and chill.
*In case of an epileptic seizure, along with goosebumps, there can be other symptoms like a confused state, lips smacking, swallowing, and finger motions. In the case of skin conditions like keratosis pilloris, there may be skin patches.
4.Adrenaline: It is this hormone which the body releases from adrenal glands during a fight or flight response which causes goosebumps. Intense emotional responses cause the body to release adrenaline which in turn stimulates the flexing of the tiny muscles of the hair follicles and causes the skin hair to erect. Often people get goosebumps while watching a horror movie, in nervousness, experiencing stressful events.
Dopamine, another chemical which the brain releases while experiencing pleasurable experiences like listening to a good piece of music, receiving rewards, surprises or awe moments, can cause goosebumps too.
5.Rigor mortis: When a person dies, the ATP, adenosine triphosphate which provides energy to muscles and cells suddenly stops, so the cells die and muscles are stiffened causing rigor mortis. As a result, the arrector pili muscles of the dermis are stiffened too, causing the skin to trigger goosebumps.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
Happy Sunday everyone!
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
4.Common symptoms of constipation:
Pain abdomen.
Painful bowel movements.
Feels uncomfortable or bloated.
Bowel movement less than 3 times a week.
5.Generally, constipation is relieved by switching the diet to more fibrous food, more intake of fluid, and exercise. However, if the person is not relieved of the symptoms despite these above- mentioned measures and maybe, there is a history of blood in stool, episodes are more frequent, then, it is necessary to seek medical attention.
Diagnosing constipation is based on medical history, a physical examination which covers an anorectal examination, barium enema, and colonoscopy.
6.Constipation is usually treated by diet and lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle changes include regular exercise, more intake of fluids in the daytime, giving enough time for daily bowel movements.
Dietary intake of at least 20-30 grams of fiber daily, including whole grains, fruits like bananas, pineapple, papaya, oranges, apples, kiwis, berries and vegetables, is recommended.
Changing the existing medication if any.
If the above measures don’t work, then laxatives are prescribed.
7.Certain risk factors which may lead to constipation:
*Mental health issues: Due to depression and stress-related issues leading to unhealthy diet, irregular meal timing, anti-depression medication, lack of exercise, and eating disorders.
*Old age causes weakening of the muscle lining so sluggish bowel movements.
*Pregnancy causes the bulky uterus to press against the intestinal wall making it harder to defecate.
*Eating lots of refined food, junk food and not eating enough fibre causes hard stool. *Medications like iron pills, antacids, blood pressure medicines, allergy medicines, anti- depressants.
*Diseases: Stroke, paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, diverticulitis, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel disease, colon cancer.
8.Constipation commonly occurs in most cases due to dietary changes or lack of physical activity. The condition is resolved usually by changes in diet and lifestyle. But, it can be a warning sign and may require immediate medical attention when:
there is severe cramping pain with sudden onset of constipation.
Blood in stool.
Loss of weight.
Severe pain with bowel movements. Constipation is for a prolonged period.
9.Generally, dietary and lifestyle changes can prevent constipation : Drinking 3-4 glasses of water every day.
Adding vegetables and fruits to your diet every day.
Routine physical activity and exercise is a must.
Eating Probiotics such as curd, yoghurt or kefir daily. Avoiding processed food, processed meat, and fried food. Drinking less alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Not ignoring the urge to poop.
10.There are several different laxatives available, just for your information.
Osmatic laxatives like milk of magnesia cause softening of stool.
Stimulant laxatives increase the speed of bowel movements to help the stool to move through. Lubricant laxatives like mineral oil lubricate the intestine and help to slide the stool along the colon.
Saline laxatives are used as enemas to empty the bowel.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
1.Throughout history, Nigella seeds, known scientifically as ‘Nigella Sativa’, have been utilized in a variety of culinary dishes in South Asian and Middle Eastern regions. These seeds grow from a flowering plant. The taste of these tiny black seeds is similar to that of onion and oregano, but they are slightly bitter. They are known for centuries for their immense medicinal and health benefits. They can be utilized in various forms, such as whole, oil, capsules, or powdered form.
2.Nutrition: Packed full of minerals and vitamins, including iron, calcium, zinc, copper, thiamine, phosphorus, folic acid, and many more, it’s a power meal. Useful fatty acids including linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and arachidonic acids make up the seed oil. Thymoquinone, its primary active ingredient, is extremely beneficial to health.
3.Antioxidants: Nigella seeds are full of antioxidants, which can fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. Studies show that nigella seeds contain several amino acids like carvacrol, thymoquinone, and 4-terpineol, which are powerful antioxidants. Hence, regular intake of nigella seeds can help protect against a wide variety of diseases, like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.
4.Cholesterol: Many studies have shown that taking nigella seeds powder can help to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol levels. This powerful effect can help the body prevent atherosclerotic diseases and ischaemic heart disease.
5.Brain: Nigella seeds have been shown to have the ability to slow down or prevent the progression of certain neurological inflammation in the brain, including Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, encephalomyelitis, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. Some research have also shown that nigella seeds can slow down the progression of dementia and age related memory loss.
6.Anti-cancer: Research has shown that the antioxidant thymoquinone has strong anti-cancer properties. Lung, cervical, pancreatic, prostate, skin, and colon cancers can all be prevented with the use of nigella seeds and their constituents. However, further data and investigation are needed to validate these effects.
7.Anti-bacterial: Studies have demonstrated the anti-bacterial properties of nigella seeds on germs that cause everything from ear infections to pneumonia. Their antibacterial and antibiotic qualities aid in the treatment of skin infections. They can aid in the management of chronic obstructive lung disorders and asthma because of their anti-inflammatory qualities. To manage such problems, people take the oil in capsules. However, further investigation is needed to fully understand these impacts.
8.Skin: Studies have shown that black seed oil can be used routinely to moisturize and skin cleansing. It can help to manage certain skin issues like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, pigmentation and wound healing. It can fasten wound healing, repair tissue damage, reduce skin irritation, heal minor burns, scar tissues. It can also help to moisturize hair, reduce hair loss.
9.Dosage: Nigella seeds have been found to have many health and healing properties and is widely been used. It’s available in capsule, powder, tablets, creams, oil, soaps, shampoos and many more forms. It is safe in small doses , about 1-2.5 gm by mouth on daily basis. But, it is recommended to inform your Primary Physician before using it.
10.Side-effects:
*Bleeding disorder: It slows blood clotting, so it is contraindicated in people with bleeding disorders. *
*Since nigella seeds may interfere with metabolism, it is important to inform the treating physician while using them.
*It can slow down uterine contraction so nigella seeds supplementation should not be used during pregnancy.
*Usually it protects the kidneys but excess consumption like 2000-2500mg daily may affect kidney health.
*The best way to minimize the potential side effects is by incorporating nigella seeds paste or oil in very small quantity in meals to enjoy the immense health benefits, these seeds provide.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
Hello everyone!
1.Creatine is a natural chemical found in the body, specially in the skeletal muscle. It is found in the form of creatine phosphate, around 95% in muscles cells and 5% in brain and testes. It’s main fuction is to provide energy for the muscles. Creatine helps to increase the reservoir of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which store energy in cells. Basically, creatine helps to increase muscle mass, muscle strength and helps healing due to any injury of muscles.
2.The main way that creatine works in muscles is by giving them energy, which alters how cells operate and promotes muscle growth. It promotes muscular growth throughout the long and short terms. Research has indicated that creatine can enhance muscular growth, mass, and strength in people of all ages, including athletes.
3.A number of studies have demonstrated that creatine can boost muscle growth and strength as much as three times faster than exercise training. It can also increase muscle endurance. Thus, athletes have used it extensively. Sports athletes who use creatinine to improve their performance include runners, bikers, soccer players, and swimmers.
4.In addition to muscles, creatine supports the brain’s optimal function by replenishing ATP and phosphocreatine storage. Studies reveal that taking supplements of creatinine can help individuals with injuries to the brain, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
5.There is evidence from clinical trials that creatine may help lower blood sugar, treat fatty liver disease, strengthen the heart, and lessen the risk of stroke. Confirmation requires a great deal of additional study. Among women who have passed experienced menopause, creatine can improve bone and muscular density.
6.Supplementation is often used by older persons, young adults, and athletes, as well as in certain situations under medical supervision. Creatine monohydrate supplements are the most often utilized. According to research, this is the most extensively used, reasonably priced supplement. Generally, under supervision, 20 grams per day for 5-7 days is advised based on each individual’s unique body type and needs. Lowering the dosage gradually in order to keep the ideal levels in the body intact.
7.Regarding safety, there is no proof that creatine damages the kidneys or liver or has any adverse effects on healthy people. People who use creatine supplements during really intensive workouts do report experiencing cramps and dehydration.
8.Animal-based sources of protein such as meat, poultry, and seafood are the primary natural sources of creatine.
For vegetarians, milk and cheese contain very little creatine. Regarding vegans, there isn’t any specific food source for creatine.
9.Since the words “creatine” and “creatinine” sound identical, individuals sometimes confuse them. To be clear, creatine is the energy source for building and strengthening muscle, whereas creatinine is a waste product that the kidneys filter after the muscle produces it. To determine the kidneys’ ideal performance, blood creatinine levels are measured; these levels tend to rise in chronic renal failure.
10.To ensure that we consume enough creatine in our diet, it’s critical to incorporate food sources of the protein so that muscle build in the body is adequate. Creatine helps in recovery of post- trauma muscle fibres, exercise- induced injury recovery, muscle soreness and inflammation.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
1.Originally from Guatemala and Mexico, Chia seeds also called Salba seeds are grown from a flowering plant. Its known widely for its medicinal benefits. These seeds are rich sources of antioxidants and polyphenols like quercetin, chlorogenic, kaempferol and caffeic acid. They are plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, mostly alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) and nutrients rich in calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus that support the immune system. Because of its immense health benefits, it has been commercially grown across the globe to meet the demands.
2.Antioxidant-rich chia seeds can remove oxidative stress by destroying the free radicals in the body. Having it regularly can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, lower the risk of diabetes by improving blood sugar, reduce inflammatory diseases and lower blood pressure. Due to its high calcium content, it helps to maintain bone health, and nerve and muscle function.
3.Though it is a rich source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, but eating only chia seeds may not be enough. Other sources of Omega-3 fatty acids like flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts etc need to be taken to complete the body’s requirement to prevent developing chronic diseases. Research has shown that having regular Omega-3 fatty acids can maintain heart health, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of inflammation like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and eczema.
4.Chia seeds are used mainly for healthy weight management. Since the seeds are rich in fibres, they absorb plenty of water, and expand in the stomach. They give a sensation of fullness in the stomach making you eat less. Therefore, it is good for weight management and reduces bloating and belly fat. The rich fibres in the seeds are also good for gut health by providing food for the gut microbiome.
5.Medications: People who have already known cases of diabetes and hypertension and have been using medication for the lowering of blood pressure and blood sugar can use chia seeds but with precautions. Having a teaspoon of the seeds with the physician’s supervision can cause no harm. However, having in big amount can further lower the blood pressure and blood sugar leading to complications.
6.In spite of it’s great health benefits, chia seeds can sometimes cause some issues. Eating in big quantities can further complicate certain conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, in some cases, they can cause diarrhoea, constipation and bloating. Due to it’s fibre content, the seeds are difficult to digest when having in large quantities. Like other seeds, it can be allergic to some individuals. So, having 1-2 teaspoonfuls is recommended normally rather than having a big quantity to prevent complications.
7.Chia seeds are tiny seeds which break easily. Many people use them in either whole form or in powdered form. Sprinkling a teaspoon full of chia seeds in your breakfast bowl of oatmeal, smoothies, and soups are common. Soaking them overnight and using them as chia sprouts is very beneficial. Chia pudding is commonly used as well by mixing them with milk or juice. Ideally, chia seeds are soaked in liquid or sprinkled over meal so that the seeds expand before eating is useful rather than having them directly.
8.The consumption of a high-fibre diet which is a healthy requirement of the body can cause dehydration due to the pulling of water from the tissues. So, chia seeds can be added to your drinking water which can help you remain hydrated throughout the day and also along with meals, this way, the nutrient-dense of the seeds can also be received.
9.Another cosmetic benefit of chia seeds that needed to be mention is that these seeds are good for skin maintainence, reducing skin pigmentation and dark spots. Due to the presence of omega-3-fatty acids, polyphenols and other nutrients, it can prevent or lessen the UV damage to skin. They are good for hair as well and can be used as hair mask.
10.Like all other superfoods, chia seeds should be consumed daily, not more than 25-30 grams per day, or 1-2 teaspoonful daily. They are cooling agents as they retain water in the body and keep you hydrated. Ideally, they should be consumed after soaking them overnight in water to get the maximum benefits.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
1. Shinrin Yoku is a Japanese idea which means relaxing in nature or forest. So, the concept of Nature bath originated from this idea. The concept simply means spending time in nature or strolling and breathing the clean air in the woods. It’s not about running, jogging or hiking in the woods to lose weight or increase the heart rate. It is a calming stroll or a simple walk in nature, being aware of the surroundings by the five senses. It has been approved by many studies to have tremendous benefits for mental and brain health as well as positive impact on the immune system.
2. For centuries, people were roaming around in forests, and woods for food, livestock, hunting and other purposes. So, this was not a new thing in the human race. But, in today’s time of urbanization stressful life, competition, and spending hours on social media, people hardly have time for a simple walk in the forest or a park nearby. Recent studies by different researchers like Japanese Medical doctor Qing Li have urged the significance and enormous health benefits gained by this simple outdoor activity. Li pointed out that a simple touch, look, listening and smell in the woods can greatly impact the overall wellbeing.
3.Studies show that trees release phytoncides, a chemical which they liberate to protect them in nature from insects, has several health benefits. While strolling in the woods, when we inhale this compound, our body releases more natural killer cells, a type of white blood cells which help in fighting viral bourne diseases and even cancers. It has also anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities and supports the immune system.
4.Several studies have shown that strolling among trees helps to breathe an extra supply of oxygen and take away the daily stress stimuli by lowering the cortisol level. It also means the sympathetic nervous system can be slowly taken over by the parasympathetic nervous system and concentrate on relaxation and healing. The blood pressure, blood sugar and heart rate, all of them, coming back to the normal level.
5. As already mentioned, phytoncides released by plants and trees have a regulatory effect on the human moods too. Studies shows that some types of phytoncides like anti depressant beta-pinene has direct effect on mood and help in reducing anxiety, anger and depression. It has anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Phytoncides helps the mind with clarity, focus and calming effect which makes it better eqipped to handle stress.
6.Other phytoncides named alpha-pinene released from trees and plants have many health benefits. Due to its calming, sedative properties, it has a direct effect on sleep and overall mental health. It improves sleep, releases stress, and reduces body pain, apart from anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which strengthen immunity.
7.According to Dr Qing Li’s book “Forest Bathing”, the healing power lies in connecting the five senses to nature. It is simply a slow walk in nature, leaving behind your phone and other gadgets, and being mindful of the surrounding. Breathing fresh air with an extra supply of oxygen, listening to the chirping of birds, the breeze, the touch of leaves, soil, the smell of the woods, and lying on the ground, all of these simple activities are stress busters.These activities releases the happy hormones and lowers cortisol. The natural inhaling of phytoncides are immunity boosters and powerful healers. A small amount of time spent can have a great impact on health and well-being.
8.You don’t need a forest or woods. Wherever there are trees, anywhere, everywhere, maybe in hot, cold or snowy weather, or maybe in a park or garden, you can do forest bathing.
In case, it is not possible, make some time to spend on your balcony among the planted pots.
In some way or another, nature does have a beneficial impact on health as a stress buster. Other therapeutic activities which can be done in an open environment with trees are meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, painting, pottery and so on.
9.Forest bathing is very helpful in the recovery phase of people affected with various illnesses including cancers. Trees releasing phytoncides aid in immune cell response and help in increasing the responses of anti-cancer proteins like granulysin, perforin and granzymes. It helps in increasing the count of naturally killer cells which helps to fight the tumour cells.
Since it lowers the cortisol, it slows down the heart rate and lowers the blood pressure. It elevates the mood and has a calming effect on mental health.
10.In an urban scenario, people might think that forest bathing is just not possible in a busy life. But,taking a little time off from noisy, stressful environment, without the cellphone and other gadgets for a short stroll in a nearby park or garden can definitely reduce the stress level and have a calming effect on the mood. Any such opportunity in your busy routine life can make a big difference on the health and wellbeing.
Thanks for reading.
Peace and love 🙏
3H:health,happiness,healing 