Take Care Of Your Bone And Joint Health In Winters

Health News

Summer Eye Care Tips

It's crucial to take care of your eyes as well as your skin as summer approaches. Due to their sensitivity, eyes can develop a number of disorders from prolonged exposure to the sun, dust, and pollution. Numerous eye issues, including corneal burns, retinal damage, chemical conjunctivitis, and corneal infections, are known to be brought on by hot weather, excessive UV exposure, and chlorinated water. According to Dr. Vandana Jain, Regional Head - of Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, Vashi, Mumbai, "Summer is the time when we enjoy the outdoors, but we often forget to take care of our eyes. Summers can be very challenging for our eyes, as excessive exposure to UV rays can cause cornea burns, retinal damage, and other eye problems. Also, spending too much time in air-conditioned environments can cause eye dryness, while chlorinated water in pools can lead to chemical conjunctivitis and corneal infections. Moreover, the swinging temperature during summer can cause viral and allergic conjunctivitis, leading to eye discomfort and irritation. Therefore, it's essential to take necessary precautions to protect your eyes from these potential threats during the summer. Dr. Jain suggests the following eye care tips to protect your eyes during summer: Wear Larger Sunglasses with 100 percent UV Protection: Invest in sunglasses that provide full protection against harmful UV rays. Wraparound frames are the best as they give protection even from the sides. Use Wide Brimmed Hat: In addition to sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat will give you additional protection from the sun. Stay Hydrated: Drink at least two liters of water to prevent your skin and eyes from getting dehydrated. Apply Sunscreen Carefully: While applying sunscreen, ensure that it does not get into your eyes as it can cause discomfort. Avoid Mid-Day Sun: The sun is at its strongest between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and it's best to stay indoors during these hours. If you must go out, don't forget to wear sunglasses and a hat. Protect Your Eyes in the Pool: Chlorinated water can irritate your eyes. Wear swimming goggles every time you jump into the pool and wash your eyes with fresh clean water after swimming. Use Lubricating Eye Drops: The increased use of air conditioning can cause dryness in your eyes. Use preservative-free eye drops to give comfort to your eyes. Wear Protective Eye Gear: During outdoor activities, always wear protective eye gear to prevent eye injuries from flying debris. Dr. Vandana adds, "These simple eye care tips will help you enjoy summers without any eye problems. Remember, prevention is better than cure, therefore, scheduling regular eye check-ups to detect and treat eye problems early is very important. Also, people should avoid smoking, as it can increase the risk of various eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. So, this summer, protect your eyes and enjoy the outdoors with caution. (Agency) Read More►What are the 8 Factors Causing You Wrinkles?
Nirog Health Tips

Natural Herbs For Youthful, Glowing Skin

The ancient knowledge of Ayurveda has reemerged, offering a revitalizing and holistic approach to skincare in a world dominated by modern beauty products and invasive surgeries. The traditional Indian medical system known as Ayurveda understands that true beauty comes from taking care of the body from the inside out. Ayurveda offers a time-tested treatment for aged skin that values authenticity and sustainability by utilizing natural treatments and antiquated traditions. Aging skin requires care, especially natural solutions that don't let your skin give away your age. Let's explore the various herbs that help achieve a youthful glow, better known as the age-old Nani ke nuskhe: Turmeric: A Golden Treasure for Skin Enhancement This radiant spice has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Create a golden paste by mixing turmeric powder with honey or milk, and gently apply it to your face. Let the transformative magic unfold as the paste reduces inflammation and reveals a newfound radiance. Simply apply the turmeric-infused paste on your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off the mask with warm water and unveil an improved complexion that beams with natural beauty. Aloe Vera: Nature's Soothing Elixir for Skin Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera replenishes lost hydration and leaves your skin soft, supple, and glowing with vitality. Simply apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your skin and experience its refreshing and nourishing effects. Gently massage the cool gel onto your face. Regular use of aloe vera gel can even help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a youthful and radiant complexion. Neem: Nature's Shield for Clear and Healthy Skin Neem, within the realm of skincare, is known for its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a remarkable guardian for your skin. This extraordinary plant offers a natural solution for treating acne and combating various skin infections. Harnessing its power is as simple as creating a paste by grinding neem leaves with water and gently applying it to the affected area. Allow the paste to work its magic, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off. Experience the transformative effects of neem as it revitalizes your skin, providing a natural solution for clearer and healthier skin. Sandalwood: A Fragrant Marvel for Rejuvenating Skin Sandalwood is versatile, catering to different skin types. For dry skin, create a paste with sandalwood powder, honey, and olive oil. It soothes and moisturizes skin, revealing a refreshed complexion. For oily skin, mix sandalwood powder, fuller's earth, and lemon juice. It absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores, leaving a fresh, matte finish. Apply the mask to your skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. After the mask has dried, rinse it and experience the transformative effects of sandalwood for radiant and balanced skin. Rosewater: A Gentle Elixir for Skincare Revitalize your skincare routine with the enchanting properties of rosewater. This gentle elixir effortlessly harmonizes with your skin, maintaining its pH balance and providing hydration. Experience its calming effect as it reduces redness and reveals a refreshed complexion. Enjoy the convenience of using rosewater as a natural makeup remover, allowing your skin to breathe freely and luxuriate in the soothing essence of roses. Let rosewater be your go-to elixir, infusing your skincare ritual with its delicate and transformative touch. Shatavari: Nourishing Elixir for Skin Health In the realm of Ayurvedic skincare, Shatavari, though not traditionally used directly on the skin, holds incredible potential to nurture your skin's health through internal consumption. Available in various forms, such as powder, capsules, or liquid extract, Shatavari is often consumed as a dietary supplement. Indulge in the timeless ritual of taking Shatavari orally, either with warm water or milk, to unlock its holistic benefits. In a world where quick fixes and instant results often dominate, Ayurveda offers a profound reminder to slow down, connect with nature, and prioritize our inner health. The Ayurvedic beauty secrets for aging skin provide a natural and sustainable path to achieving youthful, glowing skin that radiates from the inside out. It's the perfect time to incorporate the goodness of Ayurveda into our daily beauty regimes. (Dr. Kriti Soni) Read More►Stress and Ayurveda
Nirog Health Tips

Stress and Ayurveda

Stress is the body and mind's physical reaction to an event that is happening in our lives. Stress is referred to in Ayurveda as SAHASA, and it lowers immunity and makes the body more susceptible to disease. Stress can be caused by eating unhealthy foods, following an irregular or incorrect routine, and having uncontrolled mental emotions like fear, rage, or grief. Emotions and body organs are said to be intimately related in Ayurveda. When we repress negative emotions, they are not processed and cannot be released, which puts stress on the organs and causes diseases. According to Ayurveda, stress is a nerve system disturbance that the Vata dosha governs. Ayurvedic techniques for managing stress not only keep the body and mind in harmony but also gradually increase the level of inner fulfillment. Ayurvedic treatments have basically two aims: Maintain the health of a healthy person and Cure the disease of an ill person. Ayurvedic lifestyle recommendations for stress management achieve both of the objectives mentioned above. Life, in accordance with Ayurveda, is a harmonious union of the body, mind, and soul. Ayurveda advises making lifestyle changes to reach a balanced condition, such as scheduling activities like sleeping and waking up, following a balanced meal plan, engaging in appropriate exercise, and getting enough rest. Literally meaning mental peace, treatments for stress management work to relieve the ill effects that come from the burden of mental strain-stress, insomnia, lack of concentration, fatigue, and headaches, and help in improving your mental health. The treatment course for Manashantichikitsa/treatment follows the 3 stages, Poorvakarma - the preparatory phase, Shodana - the cleansing or eliminating phase, and finally Samana which is the corrective and rejuvenation phase. In the first step, internal and external oleation (Snehanam) and therapeutic sweating (Swedanam) prepare the body for the removal of toxins. After the body has been prepped, the doctor will choose the cleansing procedure or panchakarma treatment based on each patient's body type and overall health. The doshas (body constitution) imbalances will be stabilized during these two stages of treatment. The body is gradually pulled out of the extreme cleansing and elimination stage during the third and final stage of treatment, Samana or Paschatkarma, by correcting medications, moderate therapeutic treatments, a healthy diet, and yoga asanas to revitalize the body. (Dr Jayan, Sr. Doctor, Kalari Kovilakom) Read More►10 Ways to Protect Your Hair During The Intense Summer Heat
Ayurveda News

AIIA and CCRAS Jointly Organize An Interactive Meeting on Research and Education in Ayush

All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) jointly organized an Interactive meeting for Research and Education in Ayush with a focus on R& D, Education, and capacity building today at New Delhi. The objective of the interactive meeting was to brainstorm and set goals to capitalize on the expertise and experience of the Chairs in academic and research avenues. The participants discussed the research education ecosystem in Ayush Colleges, at both graduation and post-graduation levels. The meeting was focused on Research & Development, Education & capacity building in the Ayush sector. All the Directors presented their success stories. On this occasion, Vd. Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, said “Today we all have gathered here to brainstorm how we can collectively use the expertise and knowledge of the distinguished chair and set up the goal for the future. The pandemic allowed Ayush to develop their science, and Ayush did it by developing Ayush 64, etc.”. Pramod Kumar Pathak, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, said “This meeting will help researchers to get the insights from Ayush Distinguished Chairs and know their experience in their field. An initiative like today’s was the need of the hour. The Ministry of Ayush is working to promote Ayush’s patents and research”. Welcoming everyone Prof. Tanuja Nesari, Director of AIIA said, “It is a historic movement when Administrators, Policy makers, Education experts, Researchers, and distinguished Scientists have come under one platform. This platform gives us an opportunity to create an evidence-based Ayurveda creating disciplinary model and integration. Prof. Vd Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General CCRAS, said “When we compare Ayush with Chinese alternative method of treatment, it has much more potential to go high. During COVID time Ayush system has registered more clinical studies, in comparison to the Chinese system of medicines. It is high time to give much priority to research,”. The meeting was attended by Heads of all Ayush National Institutions, Research, Councils, and advisors of MoA, Chairman of NCSIM Vaidya Jayant Deopujari, and NCH Dr. Anil Khurana including five newly- distinguished appointed scientists Ayush Distinguished Scientist Chairs Dr. Nandini K. Kumar (Interdisciplinary Clinical Research), Dr. Arvind Chopra, (Public health and Epidemiology), Dr. Sharmila Shekhar Mande (Ayurveda Biology and Basic Sciences), Dr. Madhu Dikshit (Pharmaceutical Drug Development) and Dr. B.N. Gangadhar (Consciousness and Cognitive Sciences). The meeting occurred in the August presence of Sec Ministry of Ayush Vd Rajesh Kotecha, Special Secretary P.K. Pathak, and Prof (Dr) Tanuja Nesari, Director, AIIA, Prof. (Vd.) Rabi Narayan Acharya, Director General (CCRAS) MDNIY Director Dr. Ishwar V. Basavaraddi and Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan, National Ayush Chairs, Directors of National Institute, and research councils. Read More►Journal of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences Focused on “Impact of Mann ki Baat on Ayush Sector”
Nirog Health Tips

10 Ways to Protect Your Hair During The Intense Summer Heat

It is common knowledge that the scorching summer heat is bad for your skin and hair. It is essential to protect it at all costs. Long-term exposure to the harsh sunlight of summer can cause weathering and oxidative damage to the scalp. This leads to hair that is dry, brittle, and stiff. While covering your head with a cap or scarf is a must when outdoors. Mihir Gadani, Co-founder, of OZiva, shares ten ways to successfully protect your hair from the burning summer heat. Do not apply too many cosmetic or colouring dyes to your hair during summer. It has been seen that coloured hair can undergo considerable changes during summer. Therefore, it is best to avoid excess chemical and chemical treatments during this time of the year. Even if you want to colour your hair during summer, it is recommended that you use organic compositions and do it for at least a couple of months before the mercury levels go off the charts. Is hair becoming too dry due to the sun? The ideal way to secure your hair from the heat of the sun is by wearing a cap or scarf. If you don't want to wear a scarf, ensure that you at least use a leave-in conditioner with SPF. If your profession comprises working outdoors, use hair products that pack enough SPF. You can also select a special hair mask or sunscreen product that is customised for your hair type. However, once you reach home make sure you wash your hair with water. Go for a rinse-out conditioner that can rejuvenate your hair by reinstating its original moisture and life. You should always choose a conditioner that compliments your hair texture and hair type. Excessive use of shampoo is detrimental to your hair. Do not apply shampoo every day as it will do more harm than good by drying up your scalp and weakening the hair. If you sweat more profusely in the scalp region and have hair that gets easily greasy, you should opt for a mild shampoo. Remember to apply the shampoo only on the scalp and not the hair or it will become dry. Who doesn't love going for an afternoon swim to cool the body during summer? But did you know that your hair can get easily damaged due to the concentrated levels of chlorine in the water and UV radiation from the sun? The best thing that you can do is make sure you apply a leave-in conditioner before and put on a swimming cap, post-swimming use a nice shampoo to reduce the damage done to the hair from the chlorinated water. Go easy on the blow dryer as it emits excess heat that can harm your hair during summer. If need be, wash your hair half an hour earlier than usual so that it has sufficient time to dry in the air. Steer clear of styling irons and curlers and allow your hair to be in its natural state. It is often the tips of your hair that sustain the highest damage during summertime heat. It is common for people to witness a lot of split ends and dry tips during this period. Therefore, this is the best time to go for that new haircut. In case you do not want to cut your hair short, you can settle for a small trim that will take care of the ends and reinvigorate your hair. Co-washing or conditioner washing is a must during the summer months. As your hair gets dirtier during summer due to the copious amounts of sweat and dirt, regular hair cleansing is imperative. During this period, merely shampooing your hair does not suffice. Make sure you wash your hair with a good quality replenishing conditioner. After wetting your hair, apply for two minutes and then rinse with soft water for the best result. If you suffer from oily hair, then regular co-washing is bound to make your hair greasy. Shifting to dry shampoos is a good option in such cases. You can also apply a little sprinkling of baby talc on your scalp and hair and then comb it out. This has to be one of the simplest yet most effective hair care tips for summertime. While practising all the above tips, make sure you follow this advice to the letter. Drink lots of fluids. The significance of keeping yourself well-hydrated during peak summer months cannot be stressed enough. Drinking sufficient water is key to good hair and skin health. You should also eat a lot of fresh seasonal fruits and green vegetables as they not only hydrate the skin but are also loaded with a number of essential vitamins and minerals. Along with maintaining a good and clean diet, you can also add plant-based biotin supplements to your routine as it supports healthy, nourished hair, skin, and nails. One thing to swear by when it comes to haircare and skincare is to invest in clean and plant-based products that will protect your hair and skin irrespective of the season. Whatever the reason for hair damage is, add products that are vegan and free of harmful chemicals like sulphates, parabens, dyes and artificial fragrances, in your daily hair care routine to get maximum results. Follow the aforementioned tips diligently and you will have very little to complain about when it comes to hair health. While these recommendations operate mostly on the external level, make sure that you power yourself internally as well by drinking lots of water and eating natural and organic foods that can keep you cool during the heat. (Agency) Read More►Shilajit's Benefits For Cardiovascular Fitness
Health News

Protecting Mental Health While Pregnant

Pregnancy is a life-changing experience for women, as they prepare to bring a new life into the world. It is a time of great joy and anticipation, but it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. Mental health issues are common during pregnancy, and it is essential to take care of your mental health to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Mental health issues during pregnancy can take many forms, including depression, anxiety, and stress. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, relationship problems, financial stress, and physical discomfort. Whatever the cause, it is important to address mental health issues during pregnancy to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby. According to Shivangi Sagar, Counselling Psychologist and Co-Founder of HopeQure, a platform for counselling and therapy consultations, mood swings are normal during pregnancy but if you feel nervous or down all the time, it could be a sign of something deeper. She says, "Stress over being pregnant, changes in your body during the pregnancy, and everyday worries can take a toll. Depression and anxiety are the two most common and prevalent disorders faced during pregnancy. The prevalence ranges from 8 to 30 per cent all over the world." "Antenatal depression i.e., depression before the birth of the child is a strong predictor of postnatal depression. Depression is sadness or feeling down or irritable for weeks or months at a time. Someone may have depression before getting pregnant. But it also can start during pregnancy for a number of reasons -- for example, if a woman isn't happy about being pregnant or is dealing with a lot of stress at work or stress at home. Whereas, anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear over things that might happen. If you worry a lot anyway, many things can stress you out during pregnancy. You might worry that you won't be a good parent or that you can't afford to raise a baby," says Shivangi. "Perinatal and antenatal mental issues have been associated with many poor outcomes, including maternal, child, and family unit challenges. Infants and young children of depressed mothers are more likely to have a difficult temperament, as well as cognitive and emotional delays. Among mothers who have a history of depression and decide to stop taking their antidepressants during the perinatal period, the majority suffer from relapsing symptoms. If depression continues postpartum, there is an increased risk of poor mother-infant attachment, delayed cognitive and linguistic skills in the infant, impaired emotional development, and risk for behavioural problems in later life." While there is a probability of adverse mental health concerns in mothers during pregnancy, it is of chief importance that these symptoms can be managed. Here are seven ways Counselling Psychologist Shivangi suggests you protect your mental health while pregnant: Seek Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal care is critical to identify mental health issues early on and providing support and resources to address them. Prenatal care can also ensure that both the mother and the baby are healthy throughout the pregnancy. Prenatal yoga is a powerful tool for managing depression. It can assist in elevating the mood during pregnancy and provide strength to the body, especially the pelvic floor, hip, and abdominal core muscles. It gives the mother a healthier pregnancy and research has confirmed that a healthy mother is more likely to have or give birth to a healthy baby. Increase Awareness: It is important to take notice that you are facing mental health issues. It can be helpful to talk to a professional and help you deal with your specific issues. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Sometimes writing a few positive affirmations and reading them aloud can help in uplifting the mind. It is significant that pregnant women should focus their attention on positive things. Communicate Openly: Talking about what is causing you stress with your partner, family, friends or a professional can help you understand your stressors and how you can manage them. It will also help your loved ones support you during this period. Having a strong support system during pregnancy can provide valuable emotional support and connection. Joining a support group for pregnant women can also provide a valuable source of support. Prioritise Self-Care: Taking care of oneself during pregnancy is essential to reduce stress and promote positive mental health. This can include getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. Taking time for oneself to relax and engage in activities can also help reduce stress. Breathing Exercises: You can try breathing exercises and help you calm yourself in times of stress and anxiety. You can also try mindfulness and meditation techniques to regulate your emotions. Seek Professional Help: If you are experiencing severe or persistent mental health issues during pregnancy, it's essential to seek professional help. This can include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Healthcare providers can help identify the best treatment options for individual needs. (N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe) Read More►Benefits of a Hot Shower?