"The Power of Three"

blog.kir.com

Find your perfect blend of diet, exercise, and lifestyle!

Managing your weight in a healthy way is more complicated than it looks. It comprises of a balanced mix of three elements: diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices. And while some people like to pick just one of these elements and focus on it to get healthy, that never really works. Just focusing on diet without doing any exercise or resting may well give you results when it comes to weight loss, but this is rarely sustainable. More often than not, the minute the diet is over, the weight comes back.


Then there are those who like to concentrate on just intense working out. While that may result in burning calories and building some muscle, it’s really a waste of time if those gymaholics are chomping down cheeseburgers and pizzas right after their workouts. Even those who try to live a clean lifestyle cutting out the alcohol and late nights are not really gaining any health benefits if they are leading a sedentary lifestyle with no restrictions on diet at all.

When it comes to getting it right it is vitally important to remember that it’s the whole package that matters. That means you need to think about all three aspects of your life when you want to get the best results. For instance eating right is not simply about going on a binge diet every few months during which time you starve yourself in order to fit into that killer dress. Instead, one needs to evaluate the way we make our food choices on a daily basis. Homemade meals versus those meals eaten out, the kind of preparation we use to cook our foods (frying, steaming, raw), and even the mix of grains, meats, fruits, vegetables, and sugars we consume. Looking at food through this multi-angled lens then allows you to be more aware of what and how you are eating.

In the same way, as long as exercise is a “chore” or something you dread, it will never be a permanent part of your life. For that to happen, you need to figure out some physical activity that you truly enjoy doing. Dancing, swimming, running, yoga, soccer, weights, pilates, kickboxing, squash, the list of choices is limitless. Just find what you love, and do it. The calorie burning, muscle power, and strengthening will all follow naturally.

Finally, the pyramid of three gets perfected once you are able to balance your lifestyle choices to complement the exercise and diet you like.

"Play Time"

doggypads.com

Best friends. Who says they have to be human? After all, many of us share our closest friendships with creatures who are often much more loveable, huggable, cuddly, and definitely more forgiving that most high-maintenance humans we know. And while it’s a joy unlike any other to come home to that friendly wagging tail, and those puppy dog eyes that can melt the hardest soul, its also true that with that joy comes responsibility. Just like you need to look after your own health, its vital that you ensure your furry friend is getting the right kind of food and exercise as well! And hey, while you are at it, why not burn some calories of your own? Look at it this way, not only are you ensuring that your darling doggie gets to like a long, happy and healthy life, you are also getting to spend quality time with your best friend WHILE you work off that chocolate cake! It’s play time folks.



Jogging: Choose between an early morning run or a sunset jog with your four-legged friend and enjoy burning those calories while giving him that energizing run. Especially perfect for those with bigger, more athletic dogs who need the exercise.

Swimming: If your Fido likes the water, there’s nothing for fun than enjoying some pool time together. You can do your 20 laps while he does the doggy paddle.

Park play: got a playful puppy? Nothing makes them happier than chasing an object flying across a field. Play Frisbee or even Go Fetch and teach him to catch and bring it back to you so you can keep the game going. A great way to work those arms and get puppy tired enough to sleep through the night!

Walking: Probably the safest, most comfortable form of exercise for all pets and owners. Take your pooch out to a pet-friendly track, hook up your ipod and get yourself a nice long power walk.

Dancing: Having tried this one myself, I can honestly say, it’s got to be the most fun way to stay fit with your pet. Just put on a rocking new track (say “I gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas), pump up the volume, and shake what yo mama gave you! Your dog will love it and so will you :)

Hiking: for those of you who love the great outdoors, why not take your dog along? You’d be amazed how fast they take to natural surroundings while you are exploring new places.

"The Return of the Packed Lunch"

delight.com

It’s officially been a month into the new year and you’ve just about got things under control. Work is going full swing while all the relatives and friends who were visiting for the holidays have returned to their homes. New Year’s resolutions of diets, quitting those bad habits, and exercising regularly are all going strong and yes, you are feeling pretty darn good about things. So where’s the problem?


Well, for some reason it feels like despite all your attempts at a regime of healthy breakfasts combined with light dinners, your jeans don’t seem to be getting any looser. Instead, they fit just the same as they always have, sometimes even tighter than they were BEFORE you began your diet. The villain in this scary picture? Lunch. And by lunch I mean your office lunch. That greasy, oily, fatty, calorie-loaded, monster of a menu which offers only food geared to give you early cholesterol.

You need to lose that lunch people. Don’t panic. I am not advocating you skip meals to get skinny. Now that’s a really bad idea. No, what I am suggesting is that you get smart about your lunch and make it a power packed one. Think about it, not only will you end up saving money by using what’s already in your fridge or shopping smart instead of wasting money on a huge amount of unnecessary calories, you will also get a super-healthy, yummy lunch that’s fresh and fantastic. Picture this. A multi-grain sandwich made with pesto, rocket, sundried tomatoes and maybe a little grilled chicken. A lightly tossed salad with mung sprouts, cucumber, red, green and yellow peppers doused with a dressing of lemon and olive oil. Even a creative pasta salad topped with some crunchy pine nuts using leftovers from last night.

Take a month to try it, and thank me after those jeans show you the difference. :)

"The Salty Facts"

todaysseniorsnetwork.com

Today I want to talk to you about one instance where you can literally have too much of a good thing. Salt. Containing the ingredient sodium, salt is actually very good for our bodies when consumed in moderation. Sodium helps the body to balance its fluid absorption and also works to help muscles and nerves to perform their functions effectively. In short, we do need the stuff in our daily diets. About a teaspoon or so every day is probably the healthiest amount of us to intake on a daily basis.


So where’s the problem? And why avoid the salt anyway? For starters, too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, an increased risk of heart disease, kidney problems, and stroke. Additionally, it also causes water retention which can make you feel and look bloated – not so nice when you are working hard trying to lose those extra pounds, or even trying to maintain your weight levels.

Ah ha. Well the problem lies in the fact that even when we are careful about the amount of salt used in our own kitchens, it is not always possible to know the salt content of other foods. In fact, you would be surprised to discover the unexpected places we can find this tasty fiend.

Breakfast cereal: always read the label. Some brands of corn flakes can contain up to 340mg of sodium per cup serving! And if need be, buy a sodium-free option so that you can enjoy your morning meal without worrying about upping your salt intake.

Soups: they may taste the nicest on a cold winter day but those packaged soups promising health and fitness usually come loaded with sodium. Again, check your labels twice before you decide you want soup for lunch every day. And if so, make it a home cooked option!

Sauces: ketchup, chilly sauce, teriyaki, mustard, sweet sauce, even your mum’s home made pickle all tend to contain huge amounts of sodium so watch the general amount of dousing you do on a regular basis. Looking for an option to make your meal more interesting? Try a little lemon or even some vinegar.

Nuts: although nuts are generally a great choice when you are looking to carry a healthy snack on the go, buyer beware. Some of the packaged nuts sold in the stores have a ginornous amount of sodium in them, literally making it a health hazard to eat too much of them! So next time, just look for the label that says ‘low-sodium” or even better, buy the unsalted variety and munch away :)

Other “goodies” you would be smart to watch out for when it comes to the salt factor include all your regular potato chips, baked snacks, pre-cooked meals like instant noodles and “ready to eat” foods of any kind!

"Can you Chew on this?"

peopletv.org

Ever wonder why certain foods are almost always shown in those advertisements for eating healthy and living longer? Usually there are a bunch of the greenest vegetables ever shown falling into a pan, and often to break up the green, you see a hint of colors, usually red or yellow. More often than not, that flash of red is our familiar old carrot. Which got me thinking…what is really the big deal about these long, semi-sweet, not really detestable, but then again not really loveable, vegetable?


Honestly speaking, the only thing that really comes to my mind when I think about your average carrot is the fact that Bugs Bunny was obsessed with them. Which prompted me to dig a little deeper, and boy, do I have news for you!! Here’s why we need to give those simple little carrots on our plates some more credit!

Antioxidants: just like we hear about the innumerable benefits from sipping of green tea all day long, carrots also contain a large amount of disease fighters including the super star beta carotene. This substance has been linked to the prevention of heart disease, proven effective in lowering cholesterol levels in the body and has even been shown to ward off certain kinds of cancer.

Improves eyesight: no, it’s not just an old wives’ tale girls and boys. Munching on carrots regularly, which happen to be rich in vitamin A, has shown to benefit the vision.

Anti-aging: another plus from eating something containing those antioxidants, which also prevent cell degeneration. Translation? You get to keep your youthful looks longer!

 Skin saver: Making a tasty mix of carrot juice and drinking it with your breakfast in the morning is also a great way to keep your skin looking fresh and acne-free. Added bonus? It’s also keeps your hair and nails looking strong and healthy!

"Winter Skin Woes"

pure-by-chance.com

Don’t get me wrong, I love the cool mornings, the chill in the air, the fresh veggies, all characteristic of a wonderful winter, but there are some things I wish I could do without. Like feeling like my body has lost all its moisture entirely. Not to mention the scratchy dry skin, the constantly chapped lips, and the oh-so-pretty cracked heels! Luckily, I did some research and guess what? There are some secrets to fixing these skin torments during the winter folks. Read on and yes, you can thank me when they work for you :)


Drink lots of water: while I know winter isn’t usually the season which makes us feel too thirsty, the fact is that the skin needs hydration to combat the dry season. And the best way to quench that thirsty skin is to drink up.

Lip love: carry some petroleum jelly or chap stick in your bag wherever you go. Not only will this guarantee you have kissable lips all winter long, you will also avoid those painful days of chapped, burning lip syndrome! Vaseline or Nivea are great option I have tried myself.

Soothing socks: the simplest way to handle cracked, sometimes even painful heels? Rub a generous dollop of petroleum jelly on them at night before you go to bed and then put on a pair of socks. Give it three days and see the difference.

Hand holding: Unlike other parts of the body, the hands are often exposed almost all of the time during those cold winter days. To protect them, make a habit out of using a heavier hand cream three or four times a day.

Lather up: during the months of winter be sure to prevent further dryness of the skin by using a moisture-rich soap which moisturizes the skin while cleansing it. Dove works great for me!

Body basics: unlike the summer, when you can make do with a light body lotion, during the cooler weather it would be a smart idea to switch to a heavier body lotion which protects your skin from dryness longer.

Shower time: although most of us love nothing more than lounging under a steaming hot shower when there’s an early morning nip in the air, the truth is that hot showers are not exactly the best skin for the skin. In fact, hot water tends to rob the skin of its moisture, leading it to feel dry and itchy. Your best bet? Cool to lukewarm showers that stay short.

Double the dose: Invest in a small bottle of baby oil, and use it post your shower and before you towel dry your body on a daily basis. This extra dose of rich moisture helps to lock the water into your skin, keeping it hydrated longer.

"The Low Down on Low-Carb Diets"

aww.ninemsn.com.au

Low-carb diet. Its one of those phrases everyone seems to be tossing around these days. You hear the babes from the bollywood brigade swear by it. You listen to the fitness gurus talk about it. Heck, you even overhear the aunty on the treadmill next door to you showing off her “latest” knowledge to the aunty speed walking next to her!


So what exactly is the so called “low-carb diet” and is it really all that its been made out to be? Or are there some things about it which might not be all that great for you after all? Fear not boys and girls, for I am here to break it down for you. To begin with, the low-carb diet is just that. Exactly what it sounds like. It’s a diet that focuses on keeping the amount of carbohydrates consumed to a lower amount. And what do I mean by carbs? Rice, roti, pasta, noodles, bread, muffins, cake, cereals, upma, poha, idli, puris, dosa, pizza, and basically anything that has something of a thick (or thin) doughy consistency. Now there are different variations of this sort of diet. Some people will eat their carbs in the day time and choose not to touch any food containing carbs after 7pm (so that they can burn the carb calories during the day which is easier than during the night, when the body is generally at rest). Others will choose to avoid carbs entirely and design there meals around larger amounts of proteins (chicken, dals, soya) and veggies instead.

While it is a fact that changing ones diet to a low-carb diet for a temporary period of time does aid in weight loss, and has also been proven to lower blood pressure for people who suffer from high blood pressure, its important to understand that this diet should be followed only for short periods of time and not attempted on a permanent basis. I for one believe that there is nutritional value to be gained from all food groups, and banishing one from your diet forever could lead not only to a deficiency of some sort, but also to a host of physical problems. Instead, its most essential to keep a sense of balance in your diet. Even if you do decide you would like to cut down on your carb intake, consider perhaps switching to the whole wheat version of certain kinds of carbs, for instance brown rice, whole wheat pasta, even multi-grain bread, all of which contain healthy doses of fiber which promote good digestion and provide the body fuel. Also, last but not least, always talk to your doctor before you decide to make any drastic changes in your daily diet. You have just one body boys and girls, so do yourself a favor and respect it.

"Vacation Work Out"

vacationspot.com

It’s what you’ve been waiting for all year. Dreaming about the shopping. Fantasizing about the sun-kissed beaches. Salivating over the different kinds of yumminess you are going to get to eat. It’s literally been on your mind 24/7 for the last six months! And its almost here. Your annual long vacation.


So what could possibly be a dark cloud on this perfectly sunny dream holiday? Absolutely nothing. Except, perhaps, just maybe, an eensy weensy chance that after all those deliciously long, dessert filled days, you might come home with more than just overweight suitcases. Ummm, you might just come home with an oversized ass….et other than summer sale shopping.

Sorry girls and boys, don’t mean to be a drag, but the truth is that after all those weeks, scratch that, months, of working out to get into that perfect bathing suit, do you really want to throw it away on a few days of indulging? You know what? I am here to tell you that in this case, you can literally have your cake and eat it too. All you need to do is to be a little smart about it!

How? It’s simple, you just work out on your vacation.

Hahaha before you freak out, don’t. I am not here to tell you to pack your weights with you, or even ask you to join the local gym on that gorgeous Goa beach you are on. Just follow a few of these simple tricks and stay in shape no matter how many days you’ll be away!

Walk: while you shop, when you are going to that special dinner, when you want to go dancing, when you want to find a nice sunset spot, just walk wherever you can. And guess what? Chances are, you will get to see the prettiest places that way as well!

Mix it up: while walking will get your feet moving, it goes only so far to get your blood pumping. So while you are soaking up those rays why not do a little bit of dancing, swimming, beach volleyball, or even some snorkeling so you can watch the beautiful marine life while burning some of those extra calories. Whatever the activity, pick something you enjoy and it will be like your vacation, and not work!

Serving sizes: ok so don’t worry, I am not telling you to ban anything from your diet on your dream trip. It is your vacation after all, and just as important as it is to be disciplined during the rest of your year, holidays are made for some naughtiness, so go ahead and order those desserts. Just ask for a couple of extra spoons. Sharing is an amazingly easy way to get a taste of all those sugary delights, while eating smarter. :)

"What to Eat to Look Great!"

static.flickr.com

There are all kinds of lists in life. Laundry lists. Grocery lists. Lists of Things to Do (by 6pm this evening). Invitation Lists. Gift lists. Even wish lists. Some lists make you want to pound your head on the wall (think list of bills you need to pay) and some lists are somehow, well, just a little sweeter.


And those are my favorite’s girls and boys. So of course when I came across a very special list of foods which make you look gorgeous on the outside AND feel fantastic on the inside, I knew I just had to share the sweetness :)

Here’s a list of the special stuff:


Grapefruit: Loaded with antioxidants which help fight all kinds of disease and infections including cancer, this is also known as one of those “fat-burning” foods. Add it to your breakfast in the morning and get a little extra zing in your day.

Red Peppers: Called a “superfood for the skin” by some, this veggie contain generous doses of Vitamins A, C and E. Just chop it up and brighten up that boring old green salad.
Lemon Water: Boost the effects of your workout and diet by starting your mornings with a glass of lemon water. Pectin, an ingredient found in the peel of lemon, has been shown to aid in weight loss, so just squeeze a little into your water every day and lose those extra kilos faster.

Watermelon: Meant to be a natural way help protect against the harmful rays of the sun, this juicy fruit contains lots of lycopene (a powerful antioxidant) which works to boost your immunity while also keeping you hydrated!

Cherries: Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that the anthocyanins in dark cherries reduce belly fat and lower cholesterol and blood sugar so yayayayaya go grab a bowl of cherries for your breakfast tomorrow!
Prunes: These wrinkly little dried fruits are rich in vitamin K and a top source of the mineral boron, and you know what? Turns out, we need both for strong bones.

Dark Chocolate: Because it is a filled with something called flavonoids, dark chocolate is believed to improve the health of the heart “reducing platelet activation, affecting the relaxation capabilities of blood vessels”…. In other words, go get yourself a guilt free bar and munch away today :)

'Rinse and Repeat!"

collegecandy.files.wordpress.com

It’s definitely one of the worst things that can happen to you in an office. You’ve just finished your lunch break and gone into a meeting with a colleague when bang in the middle of your explanation of something, you lean in to emphasize a point, and thud. It hits you like a cannonball moving at full speed. The breath of garlic, onion, mustard topping on something giving your otherwise perfectly pleasant co-worker the exhaling powers of the devil himself. Powerful enough to wipe out a town. There’s only one thing worse than dealing with a friend with bad breath post a garlicky lunch. And that’s having the toxic breath yourself. So here I am folks, to help you save the day. Mouth wash. It’s the easiest, simplest way to prevent ever worrying about anyone in the office avoiding you for after-lunch meetings.


And besides the obvious help it will do for your social life (trust me, minty fresh-smelling breath is a big turn on for all types), here are some other reasons to enjoy a rinse after each meal.


Kills germs: Just like having bad breath can do some real damage to your social and office life, using a good mouthwash after you eat can help kill germs because it is able to reach the spots between your teeth and gums that your toothbrush cant.
Cleans out the mouth: Eating a pasta or any other sticky food? Rinsing your mouth after helps to loosen up any food caught between your teeth, which if not spat out or swallowed, can eventually create trouble of all kinds!

Helps to prevent cavities: Anything that prevents you having to sit in that “special chair” at the dentist faced with the sight (and sound!) of those terrifying drills must be a good thing right? Using mouthwash at leas once a day helps to prevent the build up of plaque in the mouth, which is what causes all those nasty, painful cavities.

So this time, say with me: rinse, rinse, and repeat!

"Banish Binges"

i.ehow.com

It happens to the best of us. There you are behaving like a perfect angel, living a balanced life in which where are being careful about what you eat, getting the right (healthy) portions of all those carbs, proteins, fruits, veggies, and more on your plate at the right time of the day, and of course supplementing all this good behavior with regular visits to your gym, ensuring that you are getting a good 45 minutes on the treadmill or maybe even an hour at the new aerobics class. When suddenly it happens. Seemingly out of nowhere, the attack is a surprise. It’s unexpected, and catches you off guard.


And oh no, you didn’t see it coming. The big fat binge.

Before you know it, you are sitting at your desk surrounded by empty packets of chips, candy wrappers, and (god forbid!) multiple, now empty, boxes of pizza….And here comes the guilt.

Now you feel like kicking yourself. How did you let that happen? All those weeks of working out and healthy salads gone down the drain. You may as well give up right? Wrong.

Its time to take control people. I am here to tell you that not only can you have total power over those crazy cravings that have a habit of attacking when least expected, but you can avoid the moments of wanting to drown your sorrows in even more ice-cream entirely. I am talking about living a binge-free existence baby.

First things first, the worst thing you can do is to cut out everything sinful out of your life completely. We all have certain weakness, mine personally is chocolate. So what do I do? Allow myself to have those couple of pieces every couple of days…and you what? I ain’t obese. On the other hand, I can handle it when I come face to face with a ginormous Cookie Monster size cake. Plain and simple, if you love something, leave a little room for it in your life. That way you won’t go nuts every time your will power to fight it fades!

Second rule, avoid emotional eating. You just had a fight with your boyfriend. Your boss just yelled at you. Someone just called you “plump”. Do not, I repeat, do not take it out on all the junk food you can find. Stuffing your face full of high-fat, high-calorie food that’s poor in nutritive quality is not the answer girls and boys. Instead, give yourself a time out. Step outside for a couple of minutes if you can, trust me the fresh air can work wonders on a pissy mood. Drink a couple of glasses of water to quell the automatic need to eat something “bad”. In short, find a way to cool down. You’ll find the food choices you make to be dramatically different once you do so.

Finally, don’t fight it. No, I don’t mean load up on fried samosa the next time you feel the urge. I mean, stock up you desk drawer with a few healthy goodies (granola bars, unsalted nuts, baked snacks, digestive biscuits). The next time you get a need to binge, break out the baked stuff baby.

Eat and enjoy :)

"Live a Little"

junkfoodnews.net

Its wafting through the air and right up to you. As you close your eyes, you can literally picture that pizza in all its perfection…dripping with hot, melted mozzarella cheese, topped with garlic, chicken, mushrooms, and jalapenos. Delivered to your office desk in under 30 minutes or else your money back. And guess what? After being a diet and exercise nazi for a whole three months, you are totally, utterly and completely entitled to a little (ok big!) treat. Yummy, yummy,yummy, its time for a little Dominoes for your tummy.


You know what? It’s all good. Sometimes, it’s a good, no, it’s a great idea to break the rules with your “sensible eating” habits and go a little crazy. In fact, chances are if you don’t give in to your cravings every so often that you will either totally overboard when you do come face to face with that chocolate cake, else you will just turn into a person who is constantly in a bad mood. It’s true. Have you ever noticed how some of the skinniest people you meet tend to be the most ummm, shall we say sour-faced? I personally think they have taken the whole “size zero” thing so seriously they are always bitter and angry about the fact that everyone around them gets to eat the good stuff and they don’t!

No matter what, girls and boys, remember this. If you cant take a little time out from your regular “balanced life” to enjoy some of the delectable things in life (your mums gooey chocolate brownies, freshly made pesto pasta, a Spanish omelets made from country-grown farm eggs), then you aren’t living. And trust me, this stuff always, always tastes supremely mind-blowing when you make eating it on a special occasion. Once you are done, just go back to the good life of nutrition and exercise and smile knowing you have total control. Not just on your waist size, but much, much more. That’s what I call doing things in moderation :)

"Sink or Swim"

wallpaperbase.com

These days people are constantly talking about one of two things. Working out and eating right. Everywhere you go, all you hear are the names of the latest machines which can miraculously literally melt all of your body fat right off or the names of the latest diets which magically make you lose 10 kilos in 10 days (god, please don’t go anywhere near that one if you are smart girls and boys!). Its all about the newest gadgets and the latest scientifically proven research to show what foods combine to get you the maximum weight loss!


But how about going back to the classics? Something which has been tried and tested and always proven to show effective results giving you a fantastic body with curves in all the right places without even going near a machine of any kind? In fact, this form of exercise burns hundreds of calories without you feeling a moment of sweaty heat and ickiness! You’ve all seen it, and most of you have probably even done it a couple of hundred times in your lives. Swimming. One of the most effective ways to get a total body workout. How so? Simply because it forces ones to exert every single part of the body while practicing it. Besides the fact that swimming is great for increasing lung capacity as well as for the cardiovascular system as a whole, it also increases the flexibility and strength of the body as a whole (which is why it’s a great TOTAL body workout!).

Consequently, it protects the body from heart disease, stroke and diabetes while working to control blood pressure and cholesterol. In addition, regular swimming also means the body will benefit from a higher muscular stamina, which basically means you are able to work that much longer without muscle aches and pains. Swimming also helps when recovering from certain kinds of back injuries (even a slipped disc) because it works to strengthen the muscles around the spine in a safe and gentle manner.

So this spring don’t wait for the latest weight control fad to burn a hole in your wallet. Join your neighborhood swimming club instead and enjoy your water therapy coz trust me, it’s the coolest one :)

"Something Smells Good"

spicy99.com

The aroma of fresh aloo paratha comes wafting through the air and as if you were in a time machine, you are immediately transported back to your childhood home. Your face breaks into a soft smile at the scent of the first rains, again reminiscent of bunking school on those rainy days of your youth. But god forbid you get a whiff of Hugo Boss for men…which somehow makes your face contort as you have a flashback of that awful mistake of a boyfriend from college. Smell. A seemingly innocent one of our five senses (for a quick reminder for those who drowned out their bio teachers they are sight, sound, smell, touch and taste people!). Yet, smell can often have a deep and profound impact on our daily lives.


We associate scents with people, memories, even emotions. In fact, according to some scientists, if you were to do a blind taste test of say a cola versus a lemony drink with your nose held as well (therefore being unable to smell the product), your tongue would actually be unable to differentiate between the two!! There is a whole industry based on the idea that we can actually use certain kinds of aromas to promote a variety of feelings and emotions. Aromatherapy claims that using blends of essential oils fused with specific ingredients (usually flower or plant based) can help to relieve both physical and mental conditions that we as a super-charged race in the twenty first century suffer from on a regular basis. I say, hey, its worth a shot.

 If smelling a nice scent every evening when I come home or during my yoga sessions helps me to relieve anxiety then why not? Here’s a short list of some of the fragrances out there for you to try (I would give the trial period at least two weeks). Essential oils are available at Forest Essential stores across the country. Just ask the sales consultant about usage and let me know what you think!

Chamomile: calms irritability and anger, soothes anxiety and depression.

Jasmine: eases the symptoms of depression and promotes a sense of optimism and happiness.

Lavender: produces a soothing and calming effect on the mind and body. Helps to alleviate depression and anxiety.

Lemon: Helps increase mental clarity as well as a sense of energy. Eases stress and depression.

Sandalwood: Promotes a sense of deep calm and peace. Helps to relieve signs of stress and anxiety. Also meant to be an aphrodisiac.

"Blame it on the Rain!"

weatherpicturesweatherphotos.net

So it’s a brand new year and you wake up with a smile on your face. There’s a definite spring in your step as you bounce out of bed and you know you got it. This time your new years weight loss resolution (2010 is my year to slink into those sexy skinny blue jeans!) is going to work and there’s nothing, nothing that can stop you from making it real.


Nothing that is, but the weather. Tip tip tip. Drip drip drip. Cold, grey, cloudy, and windy. No, unfortunately I am not describing the background to a scary ghost story about a haunted house on a hill. I am talking about the reality of life right outside your front door. Make that dripping from your ceiling.

Too bad. Too sad. Guess the gym is going to have to wait for another day and you can put those sneakers back in the closet right? Wrong.

It’s time to take control people. So what if it looks like doomsday outside your window? Who says you can’t do something super-energetic and calorie-burning right there in your living room? I am here to tell you that you don’t have to be a slave to the gym or be disheartened because the weather isn’t on your side today. When you want to work off all that guilt from your holiday eating, you just have to work out. And honey, when you can’t get to the gym, you just got to make that gym come to you.

Here are 4 fabulous ways to keep your fitness resolutions this year!

Push ups: you can choose between girly style (on your knees lifting your torso weight only) or good old military style (on your toes lifting your entire body weight evenly). Either way, you are going to get your heart pumping and your body screaming --- in a good way! Do two sets of 10.

Squats: Get your posture right by practicing with a trainer or someone experienced with the exercise the first few times. Once you have your positioning right you can try and go for 4 sets of 15 each of these free squats. Amongst one of the most efficient movements for a full body workout, these killers work all the way up from your calves and hamstrings right to your abdominal core. Burn baby burn.

Jumping Jacks: Get back to the old days of PT in school! Boosting the blood pumped to the heart this works as a great cardiovascular workout when you don’t have access to a treadmill. Also, it can actually be a lot of fun. Think 2 to 3 sets of 20 reps each depending on how much you want to push it.

Spot Jogging: Cant get to the park? Rain upto your knees keeping you from your beloved treadmill in the gym. Use your very own bedroom floor instead. Just crank up some Tiesto on your ipod dock and start running. While you stay in the same spot. Keep jogging till your tune is done. Then lie down, relax and breathe.

Most importantly, always, always, enjoy your work out!

"Dairy Diet"

thejewishstar.files.wordpress.com

All of us like a bit of variety. Something different to look forward every day so that it doesn’t feel like you are reliving the same 24 hours again and again and again. And lets face it, that’s why we like to eat out or order in. Just the change in menu from the regular ghar ka khana to something a little more exciting (say Chinese or Italian…yummm) can make for a nice break in the average mundane week. And why not, absolutely nothing wrong with stimulating the taste buds with a little something out of the regular fare I think. As long as you are still getting your daily basics on your dinner plates that is.


So what are those basics? Well, simply put, they are your carbohydrates, proteins, fruits and veggies, and oh yes, your dairy. Now you know enough reasons why it’s super important that you get your daily dose of those first three categories, but what about the fourth? Why do you really need to bother with dairy after you pass the age of 15 when your mom finally stopped yelling at you about drinking your milk so that you could grow “big and tall and strong”?

The truth is that despite all the bad press they may get from dietaholics (oh yes, I do believe that’s a valid term to use for those obsessed with calorie counting, for gods sake, we are NOT all going to walk around calculating every breath of air we take!) dairy products really do contain a bunch of good stuff. Lets start with calcium, the main ingredient found in all dairy products, helps to keep the body strong and prevents brittle bones, nails, teeth and hair as well as decreases the chances of osteoporosis later in life.

Dairy also contains high amounts of protein, which is the main nutrient needed for good muscular health. Vitamin D is another important reason to get that dairy on your plate as it works as an important aid in the absorption of calcium by the body, increasing its bone density and strength. Research has even shown that those people who consume healthy amounts of dairy products on a regular basis are less likely to develop high blood pressure over a period of time than those who have a low intake of dairy.

Last but not least, where oh where do you find this vital nutrient for your daily diet? Good sources of calcium, protein, magnesium, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 can be found in milk, paneer (cottage cheese), cheese, butter, yoghurt and even in ice-cream (low-fat) --- but go slow and reach for the low-fat versions so that you avoid the extra saturated fat, calories and cholesterol and still get all the rest of the goodies you need.

"Soups Up"

blog.sigsiv.com

It’s the perfect meal when you want to go light. It’s the ideal feel-good food when you are feeling far from good. It’s the winter food which keeps you feeling warm. It’s all the nutrients and health you need fitting perfectly in a bowl.


Undoubtedly, one of the nicest benefits to adding soup to your regular diet is the fact that even though it fills you up with its yumminess, it can easily be a low-calorie; nearly fat-free meal in itself. A good example is any clear vegetable soup. Basic rules say if the soup is clear it means it doesn’t contain any cream, butter, or milk --- which means its practically water people! Instead just adding some boiled veggies to some clear vegetable stock soup can make for a super-delicious meal. So not only do you get a taste of something warm and nourishing, adding comfort to your day, you get a healthy way to lose those extra kilos :)

And here’s another reason why you should think about soup. Since soup is more or less liquid in form, you can put all kinds of wholesome goodness into the blender and add it to soup making sure its packed with all the vitamins, antioxidants, and immunity boosting foods you need to keep you fighting fit. Which is why soup is also a smart thing to eat if you are ever feeling a little under the weather. Take your pick from a wide range of ingredients to make tomato, spinach, pea, mixed veggie, broccoli, beetroot, pumpkin, cabbage, even lentil soup! If you are a carnivore who cant do without meat on your plate you could consider adding a little shredded chicken, or some shrimp into your bowl as well. So the next time you are wondering what to have for lunch, just think about all the wellness power in that little bowl of soup and drink up!

"Hope for Bad Hair Days"

inxecovier.com

Its summer time again and just like every year, your hair seems to be going through some sort of angst. Maybe its the dry air, or maybe its swimming in the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, or maybe its just that you haven’t had a chance to condition it in ages, but there definitely something that needs to be done!

Here are my 3 Golden Rules for happy hair.



Feed your hair: just like you worry about the way your body looks and think about what it is that you put into your body, your hair needs to be looked after in the same way. Some foods which encourage healthy hair growth while giving you lustrous and lovely locks include egg (or egg whites if you are watching the cholesterol), salmon (vitamin B-12, iron and omega-3 fatty acids), dark green veggies (spinach, broccoli both of which have vitamin A and B) brown rice, cottage cheese, and even lentils (loaded with iron and zinc).So the next time you are loading up your plate for lunch – don’t just think about thin thighs, think about happy hair!


Nourish your hair: Picking the right products for your hair is almost as essential as making sure you are giving it the nutrition it needs through your diet. The first step to correct product use is to identify the kind of hair you have, so the next time you are at the parlor just ask your hairdresser whether you have dry, oily, damaged, or normal hair. Next, find the brand which works for your hair. if all brands did the same work we would all be walking around flipping our hair like the girls in the Sunsilk ads, but this is not the case so we can only rely on trial and error to get it right. Again, ask your hairdresser what they may recommend and try that, if you don’t think its doing much for your hair, try something else. If you have over-treated or sun damaged hair, make sure you invest in a good deep conditioner that you use once a week to help soften the hair.


Save your hair: Yet again, our mothers were right. Too much blow drying really does damage the hair. Not only does it dry out the hair, it also robs it of precious moisture and sheen, leaving it looking dull, dry and very brittle. Another thing we really shouldn’t get too much of? Permanent colors and strong treatments like rebonding, perming, and repeated highlighting. I'm not saying ban the beauty parlor for good, but exercise some restraint with the product pile-up in your hair girls and boys. If you do like to go visit the salon every so often, then make it a weekly protein treatment, or better yet, a nice oil massage!

"Breathe Easy"

thehealthylivinglounge.com

It happens to all of us. Some days it just feels like the world has woken up on the fast train and some how you are stuck on a verrry slow donkey trying to catch up. Its almost as if there aren’t enough minutes in the day to finish all of the zillion things you need to get ticked off of your “To Do List”! Blame it on the heavy meal you had the night before. Or maybe the extra glass of wine that you really could have done without. Or the fact that the alarm just didn’t ring this morning causing you to wake up and move straight into fifth gear to get into the office on time. The point is, your world seems to be spinning out of control today and you have a bad feeling things are just going to collapse all over you. Like a house of cards.


Here’s what you have to do. Just Breathe.

It’s actually as easy as that. Close your eyes. Now take a deep breath in, taking your own time to breathe in all the oxygen you can. Try and count the number of seconds it takes you to get this nice, full breath of air into your lungs, focusing on the physical movement in your lungs while dong so. Once you have taken in a complete breath, slowly, with awareness on all the sensations of your body, begin to exhale. Keeping the eyes soft and closed, gently allow the breath to leave your body and once you have completed your exhalation, begin to breathe in deeply once more. Continue to breathe in this way for about five more breaths counting one complete inhalation and exhalation as a single breath.

Deep breathing is one of the easiest and simplest ways to get back that sense of balance when you are feeling over flustered or stressed. Proven by research around the world, this form of breath work helps to give the mind a feeling of calm and even reduces blood pressure when practiced on a regular basis. The best part is that the next time you are having one of those crazy days, you don’t have to go to a doctor or worry about falling to pieces in the middle of your office. All you need to do is breathe :)

"Go for the Green"

musikality.com

Sometimes the simplest solution is the one that’s right there staring you in the face. As human beings living in the times of instant cash, instant noodles, and yes, even instant fixes we are all moving at the speed of light. All the time. Answering phone, replying to emails, sending texts, even “poking” or “pinging” each other literally every minute of the day. So when the moment of burnout comes, and yes, it does come for us all girls and boys, what’s the best way to escape the chaos around? Like I said, its so simple, it scares me. Just step outside.

I mean literally, leave the four corners of your air-conditioned worlds and get outside (where the animals live). Reconnecting with nature has been proven time and again to have several benefits both from the physical point of view as well as from an emotional/mental/some could call it spiritual perspective.

Think about how good you feel when you are driving out of the crazy city traffic on those weekends to the beach or the hills. It almost feels like the minute you leave the intensity of the urban life and start moving towards the quieter strength of nature, that you begin to feel a sense of calm. If you can’t manage to take a weekend break too often, find a park near your home or office and just spend a half hour walking there after work. Trust me, you will get home with a fresh feeling of optimism and energy. Walking not only gives you a great form of calorie-burning exercise, the time spent outdoors and away from the constant demands of the laptop and phone gives you something special.

Of course you can find this sense of space in other ways. Some people are literally spa-aholics, for whom missing their weekly massage is equivalent to the apocalypse. What I am selling is free. And from my experience, the best way to rejuvenate the tired body, mind , and spirit.

It’s out there for all of us to enjoy – the magic of mother nature.

"Bursting Bladder?"

travelblog.com

Ever feel like you are just dyyyyyying to pee? Usually when you are stuck in a seemingly endless meeting. Or when you have spent about an hour commuting from one side of town to the other travelling on the super bumpy roads of our cities. Even when you step out from a room in which the ac in turned on “high cool” to the sweltering heat outside? Sometimes I really wonder if adult diapers might just be the solution to my almost daily stress to running into some restroom or the other to pee! So if you have the same worries, these next tidbits of news are going to make you very happy.
The experts have found that the consumption of certain things can actually make your bladder feel like its bursting even more, so read on to know how to avoid dying-to-pee syndrome the next time you are about to step into that meeting!



Caffeine: Keep a count on those coffee breaks people. Research has found that caffeine actually stimulates the bladder and acts as a diuretic, producing more urine. But don’t panic, you don’t have to quit that little coffee habit you’ve got going altogether, just cut down on the cups, or even better, switch to deca!
P.S. Guess what else contains caffeine? Chocolate. Enough said.


Too much liquid: While I am all for staying hydrated, research says two liters is a very decent amount of fluid for the body to intake on a daily basis. If you are one of those water enthusiasts, try and avoid drinking too much in the evenings, it will save you those midnight trips to the bathroom!


Too little liquid: Contrary to the assumption that if you don’t drink too much, you won’t need to pee, and that will solve the problem, too little fluid in the body can actually irritate the bladder and cause an infection. The key is to drink enough to stay balanced and hydrated. And don’t forget, you also get a good portion of your daily fluid needs from food itself – about 20 percent! Food which contains high amounts of fluid? Fruits, salads, soups and dals.

Alcohol: Although it is dehydrating, alcohol also makes you tend to pee a lot more frequently while you are consuming it. In fact, it can also induce the brain into sending mixed signals to the bladder, making you feel like to need to pee when you don’t! So remember to drink responsibly girls and boys.


Other culprits I bet you didn’t know about, but all of which can make a nervous bladder even worse, aerated drinks (fizzy drinks and sodas), acidic fruit and juices artificial sweeteners and spicy food!

"Good vs Evil: The 2 Sides of Holiday Foods"

maxwebber.hunter.cuny.edu

Its that time of the year again people. Pool parties, birthday bashes, annual extravaganzas, and crazy music festivals. Its officially party time. You know what that means don’t you? Cake, pudding, chocolate pie, strawberry cupcakes, butter cookies, and much much more… Ok, you can stop the drooling! Before you reach for that second, make that, THIRD slice of the caramel toffee cake stop and take a second to read on. For I have for you a neat little list of the not-so- goodies on our holiday plates, just to help you know when its worth another bite, and when its most definitely not!


And I am not just talking about a little big of struggling to get into those fitted jeans. According to statistics, the average person puts on about a half kg every festive season (make that 1kg for us Indians since we like to party during Diwali and at the end of the year!), and most people do not end up losing that extra kg, leading to progressive weight gain year after year!

Listen up, and learn girls and boys.

Chicken with the skin on – you’ll be surprised to learn that the skin of the chicken actually contains a whole lot of saturated fat which is usually the stuff that likes to clog up your arteries, not to mention add some ummm…bump to your backside. Another warning – pick white meat (chicken, turkey, pork) over red meat (mutton, beef) when possible since the latter has more fat per bite than the former!

Mashed, soft –as-heaven potatoes – you can bet your last rupee this stuff has got dollops of butter and other creamy delights inside its innocent looking exterior and trust me, you don’t want to go there. If you want to eat potatoes, pick the grilled or even the roasted kind…yummy, without the tummy.

Pecan/Apple Pie – don’t fool yourself into thinking that because its named after a healthy fruit or nut, its super light and healthy. On the contrary, these desserts usually come loaded with all kinds of fatty stuff like butter, milk, cream, sugar and corn syrup. On average, one slice of a pecan pie can be between 500 and 800 calories. Now how long does it take to work that off on the treadmill?? Hmmm, about 90 minutes for most of us!

So before you attack that buffet table at random, think twice people.

"Post Party Syndrome"

blueshoeart.com

It happens to the best of us. So there you are coasting through the party season feeling pretty darn good about things. Birtday party here, Christmas party there. Housewarming get together this week, rooftop barbeque next week. Until it happens. When your “switch”, as I like to call it, malfunctions. Plainly put, the “switch” is what usually works to keep you rocking but not swaying, singing but not slurring, and nibbling but not stuffing yourself silly.


And sometimes, the “switch” just fails to operate properly. You know this has happened when you wake up in the morning feeling like you have a dozen oompa loopmas drilling jackhammers into your brain. This is usually accompanied by a dull, but real sense of nausea, the inability to focus the eyes, and poor hand eye coordination. The icing on the cake is that your digestive system seems to have turned violently against you and all is not well with your tummy.

Here’s how to save the day….or at least what’s left of it, and feel like a human being again.

Drink up: it’s a simple, but golden rule which NEVER fails me boys and girls. Begin the morning with a liter of water. And just keep it going. Try and see if you can get at least 6 bottles of water into your system. The science is simple; all that peeing which is bound to ensue the guzzling, brings out all those extra toxins in the system and help to cleanse the digestive tract.

Vitamin C: here’s a trick which a friend taught me. When you wake up with an extra heavy head, usually caused by one glass of vodka too many, drink a glass of orange juice. Am not sure how or why, but the vitamin c in the stuff, just helps clear that fuzzy brain feeling right up!

Sleep: you need to rest your body after a crazy few nights of partying. The more quality sleep you get, the easier it is to recover. So even if you wake up early, have a bottle of water, and go get another house to snooze time (assuming it’s a Saturday/Sunday, if not, then good luck at the office!)

Carb fest: you need to absorb the excess in your body, and the best way to do that is you have a slice of toast or maybe a portion of rice/roti with your meal. Guaranteed to make you feel a little bit more like yourself and less like someone who has been hit by a truck.

So this season be sure to party hard, but party smart!

"Believe it or Not!"

 tombronk.com

1.25% of your bones are located in your feet

2. Walking on hard dirt can burn up to 7 percent more calories than walking on the pavement

3. A sneeze can travel as fast as 100miles per hour.

4. Contrary to what most believe, chocolate does not cause acne

5. Crushed cockroaches can be applied to a stinging wound to help relieve the pain.

6. From the age of 30 onwards, human beings gradually begin to shrink!

7. If you unfolded your brain, it could cover an ironing board.

8. A lung from the human body, when rolled out flat, would be the size of a tennis court.

9. If the stomach failed to produce a new layer of mucous every two weeks, it would digest itself.

10. It takes 17 muscles to smile and 43 to frown

11. Just like fingerprint, every one has a “tongue print” which is unique to them!

12. A common ingredient found in lipsticks: fish scales

13. Dreams can last between 5 to 20 minutes.

14. The average person has 1460 dreams every year.

15 .More people use blue toothbrushes as compared to red ones

16. One out of every 20 people has an extra rib

17. Pain travels through your body at 350 feet per second

18. Sweat has no smell: it’s the bacteria on the skin which creates the odor.

19. The average human body contains enough fat to make 7 bars of soap.

20. The average office desk has 400 times more bacteria than a toilet.

21. A taste bud in the human mouth lives for only ten days before it dies and is replaced by a new one.

22. The most push-ups ever performed in a day was 46,001

23. The strongest muscle in the human body: your tongue.

24. During your lifetime, you will eat about 60.000 pounds of food, that’s the weight of about 6 elephants!

25. When a person blushes, the lining of their stomach turns red too.

26. You have no sense of smell while you are sleeping!

27. Hair grows faster in the morning than at any other time during the day!

28. Apples are 25 percent air.

29. Bananas aren’t fruit – they’re a kind of herb!

30. Food can only be tasted if it is mixed with saliva.

"In a Nutshell"

 

sanfransiscostuff.files.wordpress.com

There are a few moments of truth in life when you experience a joy which you can really, truly relish. For me, one of these moments was the day when I discovered that nuts --- wait for it --- are actually good for you. Hold the phone, not only are they good, they’re freakin GREAT for you.  

Coming from someone who has had to spend more or less all of her adult life (am talking college years and on!) battling to keep my jeans the same size, this is fantastic news baby. The thing is, I know I have lots of company out there. Almost every adult I meet deals with the same issue: how the heck to figure out whether what you are putting into your mouth is going to save you from god-knows-what-new-disease , or if its going to, simply put, kill you. 

So how wonderful is it that I can share these tasty nuggets of information about our crunchy friends with you? Salted, roasted, toasted, or even eaten raw…just a handful of nuts every day is proven to be able to reduce cholesterol levels from two percent up to a whopping 16 percent! 

Here’s the scoop on the best of the superfood snacks.

Almonds: jam-packed with calcium and antioxidants (as much as found in a cup of green tea!), they also contain high amounts of Vitamin E which help maintain the health of the hair, skin and nails.

  

Pistachios: Filled with lutein and beta carotene, antioxidants which are known to lower cholesterol levels in the body. Some studies even claim that eating up to three servings a day can help reduce the physical and mental effects of stress on blood pressure– hmmm, know anyone who might need some of that?

Walnuts:  its not called brain food for nothing people, these nuts contain the highest concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids, proven to improve the health of the heart and strengthen the body’s immune system.

Hazelnuts:  Another great source of “good fats” these nuts are also a rich source of disease-fighting antioxidant power. Grab a handful everyday and keep all those nasty flues far away!

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and GO NUTS!

"Go for the Green!"

You know how your mom always told you to eat your vegetables? Yet again, it turns out that she was bang, smack right on target about what was good for you. Not only in your childhood, but throughout your life, it’s a smart idea to keep vegetables a part of your daily diet.

And just like all other things, not all vegetables are created equal. Indeed, some of these guys are the equivalent of an S-class Mercedes when compared to other Santros around. This brings us to the best, most high-grade green guy you can put on your plate this winter season: the broccoli.

Looking like its cousin the cauliflower, except with beautiful dark green florets, the broccoli is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, calcium, and fiber. In short, it’s designed to protect the body fight all kinds of disease (including cancer) and also helps to promote strong bones and teeth. Having a high concentration of vitamin C means this green friend of ours also helps the body to absorb iron, prevents the development of cataracts, and also eases the effects of the common winter cold (no more sniffly, sneezy Monday mornings yay!). Being a rich source of fiber, broccoli is also great for digestion, helping to lower levels of cholesterol, and makes a delicious addition to your salad bowl too! 

You can pick from simple methods of preparation to enjoy this green gift from Mother Nature:  steam it, sauté it, stir-fry it, bake it, or just toss it in a salad and enjoy! Bonus tip: broccoli tastes fantastic when seasoned with just a little garlic, salt, and olive oil so try it with any cooking method.

Happy eating :)

"The Traveller's Diet"

  demelzahill.com

So part of your job requires that you travel. And so you find yourself on a flight once a week. Mumbai-Delhi. Delhi-Bangalore. Bangalore-Chennai. Or maybe it’s a train to Surat, Patna, or Calcutta. Maybe you aren’t one of those (un)lucky people who get to rack up their frequent flier miles. Instead, maybe you deal with a two hour commute to your office desk everyday. And a two hour commute back home. Not to mention the client meetings thrice a week which means another hours taxi/train ride to the other side of town. 

Whatever your choice of vehicle may be, it’s safe to say that you find yourself travelling from point A to point B fairly frequently. What’s the first thing you end up missing out on with all that movement? Yes, that’s right; it’s your regular meals. Inevitably what ends up in your hands is a bag of friend potato chips, or worse a so-called “happy” meal which promises to deliver you from your hunger pangs. Words from the wise girls and boys: the last thing that greasy gunk is going to do is make your body happy. 

So here’s a short list of healthy, sensible snacks you should try and eat while rushing from one airport to the next, or commuting to those endless client meetings without a break!

Nuts – the best energy food there is people. And the best part is, they can be bought in a box, so its mess-free and easy to carry! Try and get a bag of mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, and cashew nuts are all great) and just eat a handful when you have a few minutes to spare. They fill you up, and work to boost your strength and immunity, not to mention they are a great source of healthy fats!

Biscuits (Marie gold, digestives) – Looking for something a little sweet, but also a little salty? Digestive biscuits are the perfect solution to cravings for some sugar with a hint of salt. Marie now makes low-fat versions which come in a handy small pack, while….Digestives are delicious bites of sweetness with fiber for your nutritional needs.

Fruit - Need I really say more? Apples, Bananas, Oranges, even Grapes, can all be put into your bag and carried just about anywhere (even on a plane!). Eat at least one helping a day while you are on the move and get your fill of vitamins and antioxidants while filling up on something really good for you :)

Granola Bars - Another great source of healthy energy and fuel for your body; these are a great option when you are rushing from one city to the next. They come in individually wrapped bars and in yummy flavors like Honey & Oats and Peanut Butter. A good bite when you need to answer that rumbling tummy.

"Enough is Enough"

workout-planet.com

You know how fantastic it feels when you have just finished your gym work out? The adrenalin is pumping, the endorphins are flowing and boy, do you feel goooood. I personally rate that first hour after an intense workout amongst the top 3 most amazing feelings in the world. You literally feel unstoppable, unbeatable, and unbreakable. Until about four hours down the line that is.

It happens to the best of us. When you find yourself in the “zone’ of your exercise routine – it could be running, lifting weights, doing squats, or even surya namaskars, you reach a certain point where you are faced with a choice. You could stop and end the session. Or you could push your body just a little further. The endorphin junkies amongst us would choose the second option. And push further. Nothing wrong with this as long as it’s within sensible limits, but once you go there, you have to deal with the consequences. Aching muscles. Pain when you walk, sit down, lie down, get up, and basically make any physical movement other than blink.

And at this point, you need to keep all lines of communications between you and your body clear. It is absolutely essential that you learn to interpret what your body is telling you to ensure that you are not only able to recover from an intense workout, but so that you can come back stronger and fitter. Here are what I like to call the Three Golden Rules.

First things first: ice works. A friend of mine convinced me to start using ice packs on my knees post my outdoor running sessions and since then I haven’t looked back. Trust me, this is the best medicine you could put on any sore muscles you might have after a workout. The cold temperature of the ice works to contract the inflamed muscle tissue and by doing so, prevents that feeling like you cant get out of bed the next day. Just take 15 to 20 minutes post workout to ice the areas which need it and you will be amazed how grateful your body will be. 

Second:  fuel your system. As important as getting an intense workout every so often is making sure you feed your body well after you exercise. During any heavy exercise you are burning a lot of energy, and while its important to burn extra calories, its also important to refuel your system post the workout to ensure that it is able to recover properly. Proteins are the key to efficient muscle recovery so make sure you are getting plenty of egg whites (omelets, boiled, or poached) and chicken (grilled is best) in your diet. If you are a vegetarian, load up on soya, tofu, and pulses (dals, chickpeas, kidney beans).

Third: rest. Perhaps most important of all the rules, this one is also hardest to follow, especially for those of us who looooove to sweat. But the best thing you can do for your body after an intensive exercise session, or a minor injury, is to rest it. Listen to the signals your body is sending to you. Rest it for a day or even two between workouts and you will appreciate how well it can bounce back.

So be smart with your body and come back harder, better, faster and stronger!

"How to Get into those Skinny Jeans!"

 everydaystyle.com

Every one of us has a pair. The ones that fit like a dream. The ones that make your butt look like it could give J-Lo a run for her money. The ones that you literally sweat and toil to get into for those super-sexy parties. The ones that you would never, ever want to break up with. Your favorite pair of jeans. 

Skinny. Boot-legged. Flare. Slim fit. Straight. They could be any style, but they are the one pair that makes you feel like a sexy chica worth about a gazillion bucks.

So it’s understandable that when there comes a day (and yes, ladies, that day will come) when those jeans just don’t seem to button up, you have a literal, actual, honest-to-god panic attack.

But don’t dial 911 just yet.  You call it panic. I call it opportunity.  Let those perfect, hip-hugging jeans be your motivation to do what it takes to get back into them and work it!

And all it takes are a couple of simple strategies. 

First and foremost, you need to recognize that nothing worth anything in life comes easy. It takes sweat. Leg-lifts, crunches, squats, and plank pose are all about to become your best friends. Trust me, a regular routine (say 3 to 5 times a week) of repetitions of these and other exercises that focus on toning the abdominal area and you are golden. Start this routine about two weeks prior to D-Day (also known as the party of the year) and you have a very high chance of slipping into those skinnies like you were born for it.

Second and also important, but not to be taken to extreme levels ladies, is your diet. You literally are what you eat and if you want to get those abs to look fat and fantastic in your jeans, you need to watch what you are putting into your mouths. Good guys: salads, vegetables of all kinds, chicken, fish, brown bread, whole wheat pasta, pulses, eggs, milk, fresh juices, fruits. Bad guys: deep-fried samosas, pakoras, cheese pizza, sugary desserts, colas, alcohol.

Last, but certainly not least, is the biggest secret: it’s the power of your mind. You have to really, truly, 100% believe that you are going to reach your goal (i.e. rock the house in those gorgeous denims) and then, and only then will you be able to works towards guaranteed success. It’s all about making your dreams a reality, bringing what you want into existence, in short going for the gold with no room for doubt!  Enjoy those jeans ladies...

"Take a Break"

 

tropicalvation.com

Picture this. You are sitting at your desk at 3pm. Phones are ringing. Fax machines are beeping. Blackberrys are beeping. People are racing up and down the halls with animal speed and everyone looks like there are on a life-or-death mission. Everyone but you that is. You, for some reason, just can’t to keep your eyes open. Maybe it was the rice at lunch time. Or maybe it was the late night party. Somehow you are finding it supremely difficult to stay propped up. Not to worry girls and boys, it happens to the best of us. Call it a wintertime slow-down of the body, or call it lack of energy, sometimes what you need is a pick me up to get you through the rest of your day with your job intact!

So here are a couple of quick ways to reenergize your systems during that mid-day/morning slump.

Stretch: Stand up with your feet together. Raise your arms up, above your head. Now taking a deep breath in, bend backwards. Maintain this position a couple of seconds, and then slowly bringing your arms with you, bend forward, essentially attempting to touch your toes. Yogic backward bends are one of the most effective ways to energize the entire body and get you going again!

Breathe:  the easiest, safest, and probably one of the best ways to refresh your systems and leave you feeling relaxed. Just close you eyes and take 10 slow, deep breaths in and out through your nose.

Take a walk: Sometimes all you really need is a little fresh air. Trust me, it works to clear your mind, and gives you the pick-me-up needed to continue with the tasks at hand. Even if you can’t leave the office, just take a short walk around there. Or maybe climb a few flights up and down the stairs. And remember, the idea is not to tire yourself out, or walk somewhere, but rather to enjoy the walk.

Get some shut-eye: This is a really simple one. So simple, it’s hard to believe it works. All those hours spent staring at the computer screen, typing frantic emails, even sending funny text messages, can really take a toll on your poor eyes. So take a few minutes to rest them. Just sit at your desk and close your eyes. While doing so, try to consciously focus on your breath, essentially withdrawing your senses from the hectic world around you. Trust me you will love the results – a feeling of peace and quiet in your mind that allows you to have a more productive day ahead.

So just go ahead and take that break. You deserve it.