When to Take Vitamin D Supplements: A Timely Approach to Optimal Health

The pandemic has changed the planet forever. A huge part of the populace was locked down for a significant time. Inhabiting an unnatural environment compulsively affected a lot of their health negatively. 

One of those effects is vitamin D deficiency. Apart from that, lifestyle choices or compulsions can also result in the deficiency of vitamin D. Most probably, you are reading this article because either you or someone close to you is suffering from it. So, this article would try to provide comprehensive knowledge about vitamin D. 

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for augmenting intestinal absorption and retaining essential minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, phosphate, etc.

Vitamin D is also known as “sunshine vitamin”. It is a nutrient that your body forms when exposed to vitamin D, and you can consume it via your food intake too. 

Why Vitamin D is Your Best Friend?

Vitamin D shoulders the responsibility to improve our overall health. It’s quite common knowledge that it facilitates the strengthening of bones and teeth by aiding in calcium and phosphorus absorption. 

Vitamin D also factors in the risk reduction of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, it elevates immunity and dampens inflammation. Recent research also suggests that it improves your mood and thus takes care of your mental health too. 

How Much Vitamin D Do We Need? 

For an adult akin to you, the vitamin D requirement is 10 micrograms per day. If you have a baby below the age of one year, their requirement would be 8.5 to 10 micrograms daily.

Microgram is denoted by the Greek symbol μ plus the letter g, resulting in - μg. If you are more comfortable with International Units (IU), then you should know that one microgram equals 40 IU.

What Are the Best Sources of Vitamin D?

For people living in most parts of India (apart from the regions with extreme weather), the natural sunlight should suffice the vitamin D requirement. Our bodies automatically create vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Apart from that, here are some vitamin D-rich foods that you may consume-

• egg yolks
• fatty fish, such as herring, mackerel, salmon, and sardines
• fish liver oils
• fortified foods like breakfast cereals
• milk
• mushrooms

How Can I Get Enough Vitamin D if I Don't Spend Much Time Outside?

If the above question pops up in your mind, then here’s the solution:

Open up your spaces

Try to open up the space where you are. It implies that if you are in a car, you may consider opening up its windows or sunroof. Similarly, try to open the windows of your home and office too.

Get exposure early in the morning

Try to witness the sunrise and bask in the first rays. You can couple this action with a walk or even while enjoying your favourite beverage. The morning sunlight is generally mellowed. And it is a great way to meet a significant part of your daily vitamin D requirement.

Add fish to your diet

As you may have noted before, some fishes are a great source of vitamin D. So adding them to your diet would certainly be a wise decision.

Consume complete eggs 

A lot of the populace believes unjustly that egg consumption has a negative effect on our health. This list also includes some fitness enthusiasts and influencers. However, as you have read earlier, egg yolks are a rich source of vitamin D.

Should I Take a Vitamin D Supplement?

People suffering from vitamin D deficiency need to take vitamin D supplements. Apart from that, the following may also require it-

• Elderly people
• Expectant women and nursing mothers
• Obese people
• People suffering from chronic kidney disease
• People suffering from parathyroid disease 
• Post-menopausal women
• Men and women on long-term steroids

What Are the Risks of Taking Too Much Vitamin D?

Akin to the universe, your body also thrives on balance! Hence, too much intake of vitamin D would do you more harm than good. One such consequence is hypercalcaemia, a build-up of calcium in the blood; it may cause frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Also, it may result in bone pain and kidney problems (like the formation of calcium stones).

In conclusion, we can say that beyond the common thought that vitamin D is not only good for our bones and teeth, it is a guardian angel for our overall health (including our mental health as well). However, we should be careful not to overdose on it. Striving for a balance, per a person’s specific condition, would secure the optimal outcome.

6 Tips To Stay Healthy During Lockdown

Lockdown, the product of the ongoing pandemic, has curbed the natural human instinct to mingle and venture out of their havens. As a result, it has affected both the physical and mental health of the populace in a deteriorating fashion. However, you do not have to fret. To tackle this tricky situation, here are our tips to stay healthy during the lockdown.

1. Maintain a Routine

With WFH and flexible timings, it is easy to fall apart in terms of maintaining a schedule. However, sticking to a routine allows you to hold on to a structure in life. Furthermore, you would find it easier to execute your tasks in a timely fashion. As a result, there would be a spike in your productivity. Consequently, you would be free to utilize your spare time on other productive means, such as to acquire a new skill or try to get in better shape.

2. Eat Right

We are a product of what we consume. Hence, it is critical that you consciously consume a balanced diet. Eating right doesn't only mean that you solely focus on foods you should eat but also means proactively avoiding some edibles, such as processed food. 

The right amount of nutrition is imperative to improve immunity, which would aid you to combat germs and diseases. Akin to that, avoiding foods that may feel delectable to your taste buds but are potentially harmful may save you from possible medical conditions.

3. Stay Hydrated

We tend to overlook, especially during hectic hours, the intake of sufficient fluid. On average, we should consume a minimum of 2.5 to 3.5 litres of fluid for proper functioning. A good chunk of that can be water, but you may also supplement it with healthy juices and beverages.

 

4. Exercise Regularly

Though your regular trip to the gym may not be possible, you can still do freehand exercises and yoga regularly. Regular exercise not only keeps you physically fit but is also beneficial for your psychological well-being.

5. Remain Connected

Evolution has shaped human beings as social animals. So, proactively reach out to your family and friends. Be in touch with them to avoid the depressing feeling of isolation. You may also arrange virtual parties and dates to further spice up your interactions.

6. Take a Break

Just because you are working from home doesn't mean you don't need a break. Take breaks at regular intervals. The same principle applies to your digital ecosystems as well. Stay away from your digital devices and protect your eyes. If you share your place with peers or family, you may bring in board games to add the fun factor to your breaks.

Despite ticking all the boxes, it is not a guarantee for anyone that they would not fall sick or stretched physiologically. If it happens to you, don't hesitate to seek support not only from your near and dear ones but neighbors too. You may also call helpline numbers (of both government and NGO's) if the situation gets out of hand. We have to remember that such testing circumstances can falter anyone. And, we humans, as a species, would have to brush aside our inhibitions and perceptions to come out stronger from this ordeal.

Impact Of Covid-19 Pandemic On The Mental Well-being

Source: Unsplash

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant mental health risks all around the world as a major virus outbreak in the twenty-first century. To say the least, this pandemic has pushed people to the brink. While patients and healthcare personnel receive psychological support, the mental health of the general populace also needs attention.

As the epidemic progresses, continuing and required public health policies and actions expose an ever-growing number of people, from all walks of life to scenarios that are connected to poor mental health conditions, such as isolation and job loss.

Children

Children, compelled to be at home, away from school, friends, and schoolmates, may have many questions regarding the outbreak, and they turn to their parents or caregivers for answers. Children and parents do not all react to stress in the same way. Anxiety, distress, social isolation, and an abusive environment can affect a child's mental health negatively in the short or long term.

Young Adults

Anxiety, despair, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thoughts have all become more prevalent among young adults (18-24 years of age) as the pandemic has progressed. They also had to deal with a slew of adverse pandemic-related effects, including university closures, switch to remote work, and loss of income or job, all of which may wreak havoc on one's mental health.

Elderly

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 outbreak for clinical and social reasons, such as weakened immune systems or other underlying health concerns. The enforced isolation from their relatives and friends is also a critical factor, which affects their mental well-being adversely. Medical professionals state that people aged 60 and up are more likely to contract the disease, and their condition may deteriorate to serious and life-threatening levels, even if they are otherwise healthy.

Adults

Many people, across the globe, have lost their jobs or businesses due to the pandemic, which had a negative impact on their mental health. People who lost jobs during the pandemic have consistently exhibited higher rates of anxiety and/or depressive disorder symptoms than their counterparts who managed to hold on to their jobs.

According to a poll in July 2020, many adults are reporting specific negative effects on their mental health and well-being, such as difficulty sleeping (36%), or eating (32%) due to worry and stress over the coronavirus, increases in alcohol consumption or substance use (12%), and worsening chronic conditions (12%). 

Healthcare Professionals

Doctors, nurses, and paramedics acting as the vanguard soldiers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic are increasingly vulnerable to mental health issues. Long working hours, a lack of protective gear and supplies, high patient load, a lack of effective medication, death of colleagues by exposure to the disease, social distancing, the dire situation of their patients, and isolation from family and friends may all have a negative impact on health workers' mental health. 

Mental Healthcare

The ongoing crisis, due to COVID-19, highlights new and existing barriers to mental health, given the pandemic's implications for those with new or pre-pandemic mental health disorders. More than 20% of people with anxiety and/or depressive illness reported requiring but not obtaining counseling or proper treatment during the epidemic. In part, this is owing to a present scarcity of mental health experts, which has been aggravated by the pandemic. With the influx of COVID-19 patients, in masses, needing hospital beds, the pre-pandemic shortage of psychiatric hospital beds has intensified.

The COVID-19 pandemic is linked to high levels of psychological stress, which in many situations, is alarming as it either exceeds or meets the clinical criteria. Its harmful impact on mental health is a global public health priority. Even if new cases and deaths attributable to the pandemic subside, policymakers and authorities must brainstorm and address how to meet the increased need for mental healthcare, which would likely remain a challenge for the long term.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Image source @ Pixy.org

Psychodynamic therapy is a type of depth psychology known also as insight-oriented therapy. It zeroes on unconscious processes that are manifested in a person’s persona and behavior. The main motive of this therapy is to obtain the unconscious content from the psyche of a client to alleviate psychic tensions. More than other forms of depth psychology it depends on the interpersonal relationship between therapists and clients. In short, this approach enables the client to understand unresolved symptoms and conflicts that arise from past dysfunctional relationships and how these may manifest in the form of need and desire to abuse substances. This form of therapy lets the therapist work with ease on clients with weekly or bi-weekly sessions.

Design of Different Types of Bicycle Frames and Their Effect on Drag

QUESTION: 

How does drag affect the different types of bicycles with respect to their frames?

Contents-

Abstract

Introduction

Terminology

Investigation

• Manufacturing

• Type of cycles

• Cycle racing and modification of bicycle frames

Abstract: 

Bicycles, as well as most modes of transport, came into existence in order to ease the commutation of human society. Bicycles are still a necessity for poor people, especially those living in rural areas. Cycle riding is also now the uber-cool trend, especially in developed countries. Cycling (especially racing) is a popular game all over the world. It has its place in the Olympic games. The most popular cycling race on the planet is- Tour De France. 

Image source- http://www.dailymail.co.uk

People have been trying to lessen the effect of drag while racing since the time the bicycle was first invented. They could hardly imagine that something which was not visible but can only be felt was the major barrier. The people having a vested interest in racing started looking at the problem of drag seriously. They started coming up with different types of frames to reduce drag. I plan to look at the ways drag affects different types of bicycles with respect to the frames.

The aim of this essay is to figure out the effect of drag on the different types of bicycles with respect to their frames. My investigation started with consulting multiple resources relevant to bicycle racing. To serve my purpose, I have emailed multiple companies, engineers, designers, and racing teams. After collecting enough material, I started comparing the answers and the results. I also set a couple of tests to observe the theories first hand.

Introduction: 

Irrespective of the fact that human beings have invented numerous vehicles, the bicycle though only human-powered remains the most popular choice for the human race. The total number of bicycles on the planet is about 800 million, far exceeding any other vehicle. A cycle as though limited by human power is also the most energy-efficient. A cycle is not only used for commutation or racing but for fitness and touring as well.

Since the invention of bicycles with the ‘Running Machine’ in 1817, there has been a race going on to improve the security and speed of bicycles. Once, the cycles became relatively safe, the focus mostly shifted on how to improve the speed. The reason for this shift in focus is the innate competitiveness of human nature. Be it, kids, teenagers, or professional cycle racers everyone wishes to get ahead of the competition. The cycle makers do take part in this obsession and further fuel it by introducing new models, relevant advertisements, and the latest technologies.

Drag is the greatest barrier faced by every cyclist. Drag is the resistance offered by air/wind that a cyclist has to overcome in order to move forward. The drag accounts for 70 to 90% of the total resisting force a cyclist has to come to terms with. The velocity of a cyclist propelling the cycle forward would always have the limitation of human power. Thus, the aim is always to reduce drag.

As competitive cycle racing started getting popular, the cycling engineers/manufacturers and even individual racers started pondering how to reduce the drag in order to increase efficiency and speed. As expected most of the innovations came from the people/firms participating in the cycle races. In order to reduce the drag, the innovators realized that they need to make major improvements in bicycle frames. The technology and materials used in the manufacture of the latest cycles have taken enormous leaps. As we discuss the topic, professional designers, engineers, cyclists, and visionaries keep on trying to find the best/optimum ways to design bicycle frames.

Terminology-

Find below the explanation of some important terms which are a requisite for this essay- 

1. Drag- Drag is the total resistance a cyclist faces when he tries to pedal forward. Please find below the diagram demonstrating the drag- 

2. Friction- Friction is the resistance a surface provides to the other substance/object when the latter tries to move on it.

3. Aerodynamics- Aerodynamics is the study of the movement/motion of air around a solid body.

4. Pneumatic tires- Air-filled rubber tires.

Investigation-  

I decided to investigate the following- 

1. Manufacturing

2. Type of cycles available

3. Cycle racing

Manufacturing- 

                                                                      Image source- Wikipedia

Cycles when they were first manufactured, were made up entirely of wood. No need to say that those cycles were not very practical for the regular use of common folks. Drag was certainly not a major factor as in order to move forward, one has to push the ground using one’s feet. The paddles were missing in this cycle. The rider could mount the cycle only when he is moving downhill. That’s the only time he can feel the drag working against his momentum.

Image source- Wikipedia

The ‘Velocipede’ was the first cycle to contain the paddles. It was a highly risky prone cycle. It was also the first bicycle to be mass-produced. It, however, enabled the rider to paddle the cycle and experience the drag even on any type of ground. Still, the major issue with the Velocipede was certainly safety. No one was wondering about the drag a rider has to face while riding a velocipede.

Image source- Wikipedia

The ‘Roadster’ which was the safest cycle till that date with pneumatic tires was the first bicycle to be used for races. The initial races were mainly for recreational purposes. The frames of these cycles were generally made up of steel. The most interesting part is that the diamond-shaped frames used for the first time on these bicycles are still used in most cycles including the latest racing cycles.

The frames of the latest racing bicycles are made up of carbon fibers and other exotic metals like Titanium, Aluminium, etc. The frames made up of carbon are far lighter and more aerodynamic. The aerodynamic carbon frames greatly reduce drag. Due to the significant weight reduction, the rolling friction reduces too. The latest carbon frames aid the cyclist to combat the resisting drag. It is thus imperative that the research to find the best/optimum designs for bicycle frames must go on. 

The involvement of these new materials allows manufacturers to use aerodynamics to their maximum effect. They can now come up with unusual curves that were not even imaginable a few years ago in order to minimize the drag. 

 

Image source- http://www.gaadi.com

Types of Cycles with Unique Frames- 

There are multiple types of bicycles available as options for the modern rider. Let us consider the effect of drag on each, one by one-

1. City Bicycles- Ironically though the model is called City Bicycle, nowadays it is mostly used in rural areas of India. These bicycles are mostly designed for comfort. The identifying feature of these bicycles is the raised handlebars. As it can be easily noticed that the frame over here in this type of model supports the upright body position while riding. I tried both the gents' and ladies' models. Due to the nearly straight backbone position of the rider, this position is quite comfortable. As I have tested myself the rider feels more in control of the cycle as the handle grips are relatively close to the body. Also, he/she can use the complete force of his legs while peddling. Sheer this type of riding position increases though increases the drag. The reason being the large surface area the rider’s body provides as resistance to wind. The chain cover which protects the chain from dust also increases the resistance. It is very hard to accelerate quickly in this cycle. The maintenance of the speed though is a bit easier in comparison. The materials which are generally used for these bicycles frames are steel and aluminum.

 

City Bike- Gents

Image source- http://www.bikesdirect.com

City Bike- Ladies

Image source- Hero Cycles

2) Road Bicycle- These bicycles are generally designed for proper concrete/cement roads. The structure of these cycles enables the rider to ride in the Obree position. The position, which was first introduced by Graeme Obree to break the world record. As I tried this cycle, I felt that though this position is quite uncomfortable it drastically reduces the surface area of the body exposed to the air/wind. This drag is thus considerably reduced in these types of cycles. The road cycles are generally recognized by their dropped handlebars. The dropped handlebars are actually quite helpful in the reduction of drag. The air friction which I felt was mainly into my face, head, shoulders, arms, and a bit on the back.

                                                     Image source- TREK

3) BMX Bicycle- This cycle is mostly used for stunts and off-road biking. As I mounted the cycle and pushed forwarded I felt a lot of drag. Probably I faced the maximum drag as I was paddling the cycle without sitting on the seat. Literally, my entire body was facing the drag. 

Image source- https://www.trackandtrail.in

4) Mountain Bicycle- These types of bicycles though are excellent on rough terrain they are the worst in terms of resistance. One is better off walking during windy weather than trying to run out of breath trying to peddle this cycle. I noticed that the handlebars were straight which provides the maximum surface area to the air pressure. I tried moving downhill and could easily feel the aerial force against my chest, arms, face, and abdomen. The thick tires also do resist more in comparison to other cycles. Even the thick shock absorbers on the frame offer maximum resistance due to their thickness.

Image source- https://www.trackandtrail.in/

5) Hybrid Bicycles- These cycles were designed to provide the best of the world features. These are essentially a mix of mountain cycles and road cycles. These cycles generally feature straight handlebars but come up with slick tires. The frames are also thicker in order to maintain sturdiness. I felt that the open-chested riding position increases the drag as well as the thick triangular stem. Most of the friction, I felt was on my face, chest, and arms.

Image source- https://www.evanscycles.com

6) Racing cycle (Pro)-  The latest racing cycle that we come across in major pro cycle races is nearly as aerodynamic as a modern airplane. These are tested in the same wind tunnels. As it can be noted from the picture below the biggest advantage of it is clearly the ‘Superman’ position it allows its riders to assume. This position is possible due to the raised seat and the handlebars protruding in front of the cycle. These cycles are made up of exotic materials like carbon, aluminum, titanium, etc. I was excited to try this cycle. Luckily, I came to know about a distant cousin, a cycling enthusiast who posses this expensive cycle. The cycle moved very smoothly especially on artificial turf. Due to the superman position, I have to be in, in order to ride the cycle, most of the drag I felt was on my back. The drag was far less in comparison to all the cycles. 

Image source- https://www.specialized.com/

Cycle Racing- It is important to discuss a bit about cycle racing as surely this is the most important and immediate reason that the need for improvement in cycles in order to combat the drag arose. The first recorded race was held in Parc de Saint-Cloud, Paris on May 31, 1868. James Moore of England won the 1200 meter race riding with a frame made up of wood and iron tires. Racing was so risky that the term ‘breakneck speed’ was coined to refer to the injuries the rider might have to bear in case he is moving at a high velocity.

Presently there are not only multiple types of tournaments but also multiple forms of competitions. These races range from road racing, track racing, cyclocross racing, BMX bicycle racing, and mountain bicycle racing, etc. Most of these competition does have different athletes and different form of bicycles competing in it.

Image source- http://eu.ironman.com

 

How To Improve Immune System Naturally And What Are Weakness Symptoms?

The immune system is generally defined as the defense system of our bodies. The immune system detects external pathogens and internal issues. It also combats the antigens and pathogens and helps us to recover quickly.

Steps to Improve Immune System Naturally

Quit smoking

Smoking is harmful to every organ of your body. It contains tar and other harmful chemicals. Smoking causes false alertness in white blood cells, the foot soldiers of your immune system. If this alertness is prolonged (especially in chain smokers), it may lead to strokes, heart attacks, or cancer. You can negate all these serious ailments by simply kicking this bad habit.

Consume a lot of fruits and vegetables

You should consume a lot of fruits and vegetables to replenish the necessary vitamins and minerals, which are essential for your immune system. They also provide other bioactive compounds, like– antioxidants, oils, fibers, and acids which aid to fight inflammation and infections.

Exercise regularly

Besides keeping you fit and energetic, exercise also improves your immunity. Exercise decreases inflammation. It helps to control your diabetes and hypertension. It also reduces stress and anxiety. Exercise supports you to lead a healthy life and slows down your aging process.

Maintain a healthy weight

It is imperative to maintain a healthy weight to stave off serious illnesses, like– diabetes, high blood pressure, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Research also shows that the immune system of obese people tends to lag in comparison to their slim counterparts when it comes to resisting invading diseases.

Quit or moderate your alcohol consumption

Alcohol consumption harms you in multiple ways. It hinders the production and effectiveness of antibodies. Apart from that, alcohol is also the reason for hangovers, headaches, and stomach-related problems.

Get proper sleep

Lack of proper sleep results in stagnant production of cytokines, a necessary protein needed to combat inflammation and infections. Sleep deprivation also results in a reduction of antibodies.

Maintain proper hygiene

Poor hygiene makes you susceptible to infections and antigens. Studies also show that poor hygiene hampers the production of cytokines. One still needs to be careful not to overdo the act. Studies show that using soaps or other cleaning agents excessively to maintain hygiene may result in infections or fever.

Cook your meals thoroughly

You must ensure that you cook your meals thoroughly, especially if you are preparing a meat dish. Improperly cooked food may cause indigestion problems or contain some harmful pathogens. Properly cooked food, on the contrary, will act to keep you healthy and improve your immune system.

Try to minimize stress

Everyone goes through stress sometimes in their lives. It is, however,
essential to manage and try to minimize stress levels. The hormone linked with stress – corticosteroid, decreases the number of lymphocytes and hence weakens the immune system. Stress thus reduces the ability of immune systems to counter antigens and pathogens.

Weakness Symptoms

Weakness is usually a feeling of being exhausted, tiredness, or experience of strength loss. It
can be caused due to a lot of factors – cold, flu, thyroid infection, anemia, insomnia, cardiovascular
diseases, side effects of meditation, inflammation, medication overdose, poison, and other serious
diseases. These are the weakness symptoms that you should be wary of- 

Dizziness

Dizziness is generally one of the most common symptoms of weakness. One feels light-headed or unbalanced due to dizziness. It generally affects sensory organs like the eyes and ears.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a state wherein one feels exhaustion. Fatigue can be due to boredom, overwork, poor sleep, or even lack of exercise. Even mental issues like anxiety and depression can cause fatigue.

Fever

Persistent fever is a sign of weakness. Fever signifies that your antibodies are working against the invading pathogens. Furthermore, it also acts as a signal that something is not right with your bodily system. Generally, fever vanishes with the successful treatment of the root disease.

Breathing difficulties

Breathing difficulties are generally a symptom of neuromuscular weakness. Heart and lungs conditions are usually the culprit behind breathing difficulties. Usually, one can get rid of this problem by engaging in cardio exercises and physical activities regularly. 

Loss of appetite

Loss of appetite generally accompanies weakness. There are a lot of causes for the loss of appetite including the common cold, flu, infections, digestive problems, stress, medicinal side effects, abuse of addictive products, hormonal imbalances, and pregnancy.

Tremors

Tremors are involuntary movements of body parts, which mostly occur in the limbs. One can easily note that the limbs of elderly people sometimes tremble. This perhaps is the most common example of tremors. Accident victims and patients suffering from serious diseases also show signs of tremor during the recovery period.

Constipation

Constipation, fatigue, and weakness frequently accompany each other. People suffering from constipation generally suffer from bowel movements or, to be precise, lack of it. If left untreated, it may turn severe and cause complications.

Poor blood circulation

Poor circulation of blood is a serious issue. It may cause damage to blood vessels. Poor blood circulation can be improved by increasing and physical activity and exercise.

Poor skin quality

Poor skin quality is a sign of weakness. White patches on the skin are signs of the immune system battling melanocytes, the skin’s pigment manufacturing cells. Yellowing of skin is most likely a symptom of Jaundice. It is a serious issue, wherein the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver cells.

Stiffness in muscles

Stiffness in muscles can be a sign of an underlying health issue and symptom of weakness. The patient’s movement is restricted due to the stiffness in the muscles. Stiffness in muscles or muscle weakness can also be a symptom of nervous system malfunction.

You should exercise regularly, be free from addictions, and lead a healthy lifestyle to improve your immune system naturally. Along with all of that, be selective while accepting advice or counseling from physicians and have a preference for herbal medicines.

Secrets Of Ayurveda

The elderly seniors in India tend to bless the youngsters to live a long life. This is not merely a wish. There are myths and legends across India which depict warriors or sages living 100s of years. Not too far in the past, there are proofs of sages and monks crossing the 100-year barrier.
These monks generally lived their life, on the lines of traditionally self-disciplined lives. They performed yoga and meditation regularly to keep both physically and mentally fit. The secret to their long life was - proper diet, sleep, and self-control, i.e., the basics of Ayurveda.

Aim to Live Long

It is indeed strange that though we call the world a global village, the distances between the people are larger than ever. People do not feel real connections with each other. Unlike the western values which though progressive are materialistic, the old Indian system was more familial and based on bonding. The youngsters used to listen to old people. In fact, it is the old and wise who used to dominate. Hence, people would actually look forward to old age. Modern life revolves only around the youth or till the time you are in charge. In the modern world, we see the ugly shade of people trying to avoid old age. The domination of anti-aging products in the global cosmetic industry is a witness to it.
To live long is an intrinsic desire which emerges from the basic instinct of survival. History is filled with examples of super successful people, especially monarchs, longing to live forever.

Consume Healthy Foods

Food is a basic necessity for human beings. Humans can’t survive without food. In the modern era, humans due to the age of abundance (at least in the western world) have reduced food to a matter of taste. Food will always be one of the most important factors in the life span of a person. It secures both physical and mental health.

Get Adequate Sleep

It all started with Edison’s invention of electric bulbs, which have changed how human beings went on from being afraid of the dark to being semi-nocturnal. In today’s world of cutthroat competition, people hardly have time for rest and sleep. However, even modern research shows that proper sleep is absolutely essential for us to function properly.

It is nice to see that people are making a ‘U’ turn. Vegan food is a craze among young females nowadays. The modern generation has made put yoga into one of the major physical exercises. Meditation is also gaining popularity with every passing day.

Importance of Health

“It is health that is the real wealth, and not pieces of gold and silver.” – Mahatma Gandhi. The quote from Gandhi summarises the importance of health in a nutshell. Still, here are a few pointers to accentuate the significance.

Protects from suffering

If you are not taking care of your health, then it would gradually deteriorate, and your immunity would be weakened. Sooner or later, you would bear the consequences in the form of diseases. Diseases would trouble you in the form of ache, disability, deformity, and even death. In contrast, you can avoid such suffering by taking proper care of your health.

Improves you psychologically

Healthy people due to the absence of health problems are generally comfortable and thus happier than their unhealthy counterparts. Good health also improves their ability and energy levels. They enjoy their personal lives and intimacy better too. Overall, they are more in control of their lives.

Finally, let's conclude with a saying from B.K.S. Iyengar, which redefines health and also reveals its importance – “Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind, and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.” 

Nasal Hygiene: Passage to a Healthy Lifestyle

The nose is one of the vanguards of the defense system in our body as it acts as an effective filter. It filters about 15,000 liters of air and tries to keep out the harmful substances whose list includes dust, smoke, pollution of other kinds, allergens, and pathogens that attempt to enter your body through the gateway of the nasal pathway. Proper nasal hygiene is thus imperative to protect your body from diseases. So, here’s a bit of do's and don’ts for you to maintain your nasal hygiene. 

Keep a Clean Environment

A healthy environment goes a long way to preserve your health and nasal hygiene. It is especially true when it comes to the condition of respiratory organs. Here are a couple of tips to diminish the threats in your environment:

-          Avoid usage of carpets in your residence

-          Prevent accumulation of dust in your home

-          Clean your dwelling routinely

-          Abstain from smoking or even being a passive smoker

-          Keep an eye on the humidity level and try to maintain it at optimum (around 55%) 

Use Neti Pot Religiously 

Neti Pot also known as nasal integration, bestowed on us by our learned ancestors in the form of a practice mentioned in Ayurveda would be handy to keep your nasal passage in pristine condition. A clear nasal passage prevents a plethora of pathogens and respiratory diseases including the dreaded coronavirus. This saline nasal spray has benefits aplenty that includes alleviation of sinus headaches, reduction of snoring, and even improvement of smell and taste senses. 

Everything You Need To Know About Glycolic Peel And Microcurrent To Renew Your Skin

"No woman should ever be quite accurate about her age. It looks so calculating, " the quote from the legendary Irish poet - Oscar Wilde is a reflection of the expectation from women by society. As a lady, you look out for ways to preserve your youth and glamour. Flawless skin is crucial to flaunt your inner radiance and confidence.

A dull lopsided sketchy skin is an indication of aging. Youthful skin is smooth and brilliant even from close quarters as the skin can rapidly recover from the continuous replacement of old cells on the surface by fresh contingents. In any case, with age, the skin's recovering ability diminishes, making dead skin cells collect on top resulting in the skin look dull. Further, other natural components like sun and dust coupled with your lifestyle may harm and make your skin look dull, dormant, and rough. These are the primal indications of aging and ought to be handled with the goal that you keep on looking young, vivacious, and, of course, comely.  

Glycolic Peel 

Glycolic acid peel is a pro treatment that can get rid of skin problems aplenty. The main ingredient, Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid obtained from the extracts of sugarcane, sugarbeets, and other fruits. Glycolic peel treatment comprises of application of this mild acid form to cause the skin to exfoliate by dissolving the binding forces between the epidermis cells in your skin. Glycolic peel benefits include its ability to embellish the tone and improve the health of all skin types.  

Glycolic acid for dark circles is in demand and it can be applied as an eye cream to vanquish the creepy marks. Glycolic acid is the favorite ingredient of dermatologists, who normally use it to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, melasma, sun spots, and even scars. Dull skin and its uneven tone can be dealt with adequately by the usage of Glycolic acid peels. It improves the looks of aging skin to expel the external layer of old skin. The new skin that replaces it is normally smoother and less wrinkled in appearance. 

Microcurrent 

The microcurrent facial treatment includes the application of extremely low-voltage electrical currents, which mirror your own body’s natural electrical currents, on a cellular level to repair damaged skin. As an added benefit, it also stimulates collagen and elastin production. The intensity is so low that it would take a million microcurrent machines for a 40-watt light bulb to start emitting light. This treatment is also known as “facial toning.” It is like a workout for your face, wherein the old skin cells are ruptured for a fresh layer to grow back stronger. It is akin to the way your muscles do after you train in the gym with weights. It works to repair collagen in the dermis, which is in the deepest layer of your skin, and simultaneously gently erasing the aging signs in the epidermis, the top-most layer of your skin. According to research, a microcurrent facial can increase collagen production by 14%, elastin up to 48%, and even blood circulation by 38%. 

A microcurrent facial treatment is often also known as a “natural” facelift. “This safe and painless procedure erases fine lines and wrinkles. It firms your skin and installs confidence in you to flaunt your features. It increases cellular activity, improves muscle tone, reduces dryness, and tightens pores. The bottom line is healthier and younger-looking skin, irrespective of your age.