"Kick that flab to the curb"

bangkokfitnesstraining.com

Wishing you could back into those super sexy skinny jeans? Sick and tired of the same old, boring workout routine week after week? Trying to figure out a way to lose those extra kilos without starving yourself silly? Let me tell you about a total body workout that literally kicks butt! Combining a way to build your stamina, flexibility, strength, and core power which listening to your favorite tracks: It’s intense, powerful, and leaves you exhausted and aching. But boy, does it work. And yes, it gets your mojo going again. Welcome to the world of kickboxing.


But, just like anything else, you need to know your facts about this form of exercise before you go into it guns blazing. Kickboxing, unlike aerobics, or your generic body workout, is an old martial art that finds its roots dating up to 2000 years ago. Which makes it a true blue form of fighting. It takes a lot of energy, strength, and ability to endure the sometimes severe aches and pains which go along with learning to master the basic forms in kickboxing. Besides keeping your body at a supremely fit level, kickboxing has other benefits. According to some studies, you can burn anywhere from 350 to 450 calories an hour with kickboxing! Now if that’s not motivation, then I don’t know what is 

In addition, kickboxing also reduces and relieves the effect of stress. Think about it, the power and skill needed to perform this demanding and rigorous workout — controlled punching and kicking movements carried out with the discipline and skills required for martial arts — is the perfect way to deal with a tough day at work. It’s the perfect remedy to release your frustration and anger so that it doesn’t stay inside your system and do some serious damage. Practicing kickboxing moves on a regular basis also help to improve balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

Another bonus especially for the ladies: Kickboxing , while being an awesome way to get a total body workout, also teaches you some fierce self defense tactics, helping you feel more confident. So get out there and jab, punch, and kick your way to your highest fitness level!

"Swine Flu Myths"

dionsdailydeal.com

                                         

                 Swine Flu: Now know the Facts from the Fiction

Its much worse than your average flu: In fact most doctors agree that swine flu has the same effect as a normal seasonal flu. It does happen to be slightly more contagious, and that’s because unlike other strains of the flu (to which many of us have been exposed to at some time or the other), we don’t have any immunity against the swine flu. However, the symptoms are very much the same as one has with a regular flu.


Masks protect you: Again, most experts agree that walking around with a mask on when you are not infected with the virus does not make you any less susceptible to it. In fact, many doctors will argue that safer than the mask is to ensure that you are regularly washing your hands with a good anti-bacterial soap. Only if you are infected with the swine flu might it make sense to wear a mask so that you can prevent spreading the virus to others through airborne transmission.

If you get swine flu, go straight to the emergency room: Patients would have a mild case of swine flu would be much better off staying at home and taking the regular medicine for flu they would otherwise take (or else taking those medications prescribed to them by a doctor). Chances are if you go to the hospital, you risk increasing your exposure to other infections, as well and exposing those around you to the swine flu virus. Of course however, if you are concerned about any risk factors you might have which can result in flu complications, its best to contact your doctor and get the right advice.

If you are young and healthy you can't get it: This virus actually tends to infect people under the age of 60 more than those above it. According to doctors its because older people tend to have been exposed to some strain of the H1N1 virus at some point in their lives, which increases their resistance to it. However, regardless of your age, the smartest thing to do would be to ensure you make a habit of washing your hands several times in a day, avoiding people who have the infection, and be aware of any symptoms (body ache, fever, throat ache, cough, cold, fatigue) you might develop. If you begin to feel fluish, do not ignore the messages your body is sending. Be smart: stay at home, talk to your doctor about the right medicines, eat well, drink lots of liquids, and rest until you are well again.

Head back to the office once you feel better: Despite what you might think, the flu virus can stay in your body (and therefore be able to spread to others) for upto 24 hours after your fever has gone and you are off any medications for fever.

"The Good News on Chocolate"

rivercitygiftco.com

I am a foodie. My mom is a foodie, my dads a foodie, even my dogs a foodie. One thing about us as a tribe (and indeed, foodies make connections in the most random parts of the world over things like a love for blueberry smoothies!) is that we are emotional eaters. And no, by that I don’t mean that we raid the fridge every time life gets tough or use snickers to fill our inner void (trust me, that habit can come with a big, big price – not to mention waistline!). What I mean by emotional eaters is simply this; that eating good, tasty food, makes us happy :)


So you can imagine the super warm and fuzzy feeling I got in my belly when I discovered the news about chocolate. Turns out, the stuff is not all trans fat, acne, and butt enhancing after all! Actually, researchers have discovered that eating chocolate can have the effect of relieving aches and pains in the human body. In fact, they go further to say that eating or even drinking anything for pleasure (read chocolate, caramel custard, honey nut crunch ice-cream) can literally act as a natural painkiller, and thus make us feel a little better when dealing with physical discomfort. Now you know why its called comfort food. Or why it just feels better to eat something a little decadent when you are dealing with those awful monthly cramps ladies.

And getting back to the matter at hand, chocolate (specifically dark chocolate) also contains antioxidants which protect the body from the damage done by free radicals (which cause aging and cancer among other things). Studies have found that consuming a bar of dark chocolate everyday can reduce blood pressure in individuals who suffer from high blood pressure. They also say that eating moderate amounts of the dark stuff is good for the cardiovascular functioning of the heart and that consuming it regularly has been shown to reduce LDL (the bad cholesterol) by up to ten per cent! Chocolate also contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant, and stimulates the production of endorphins in the body, which give you that “feel good” sensation. And now for the best part : it tastes grrrrreat :)

"Just Dance"

tech2.com

Ballroom. Ballet. Jazz.Hip-Hop. Salsa. Classical. Modern. And perhaps best of all and my personal favourite, Freestyle.


Dance. Its more than just movement to music. Its freedom. Its an expression of the spirit. It’s a release. Its an escape. And yes, it does the body good.

Dancing gets your body moving,your blood pumping, your heart beating, and your pulse racing. Not only does it burn calories (a half hour can burn between 200 and 400), as an exercise it can be as effective as walking, swimming and even cycling. It also works as a great way to increase your flexibility and agility. Think about a typical belly dancing class, which focuses on the isometric movement of the hips, improving not only the muscles in the hip joints, but also working on the strength of the core. Similarly, Salsa teaches one how to move with speed and grace, keeping the back firm and body in perfect alignment while twirling, twisting, dipping, and side-stepping! Most forms of dance require dancers to perform moves that require bending and stretching, so dancers naturally become more flexible by simply dancing. Yet another benefit from dancing is the fact that it builds stamina. The more you dance, the greater your endurance. The greater your endurance, the longer and stronger your body can go without feeling fatigue. The less fatigue you feel, the healthier and fitter you feel. And finally, what I believe to be the most important benefit to dancing. ITS FUN.

So go out there, find your flavor, and get moving :)



And just to get you started, here is a list of my current Top ten dance tracks!



I gotta feeling –Black Eyed Peas

Love in Gone –David Guetta

Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough - Micheal Jackson

Sexy Chick –Akon feat. David Guetta

Dhan tha nan – Kaminey Soundtrack

Fire Burning the Dancefloor –Sean Kingston

I know You want Me –Pitbull

Just Dance – Lady Gaga feat. Akon

Love Today – Mika

American Boy – Estelle feat. Kayne West

"Lime Zinger"

photographyblogger.net

It makes you smack your lips with its zing. Its got that burst of something something which adds just what you cant put your finger on to your chat, your mixed vegetable sabzi, those chicken kebabs, and even plain water! Calorie-free, inexpensive, easily available and filled with goodness, it’s the perfect condiment. Introducing the one and only Lime.


Here are some of the fantastic benefits from that little green guy!

Skin Saver: loaded with vitamin C, lime acts as a natural anti-aging remedy for your skin, preventing wrinkles and other signs of aging. Drinking a glass of lemon water daily also serves to refresh and rejuvenate dull and tired skin!

Tummy Trimmer: acting as a safe aid for those who are looking for weight loss, lime (again mixed with lukewarm water and honey) also works to improve the digestive process, helping to shed those extra pounds. For the best results, drink a glass first thing every morning.


Flu Fighter: Have a throat ache? Just dilute one half-lime juice with half a glass of water and gargle. The natural antiseptic power of the lemon can help to fight and improve throat infections. Drinking lime water also helps to reduce a fever, flu or cold by increasing the amount of perspiration in the body, thus ridding it of the toxins of infection.

Stomach Soother: Due to the strength of its curative powers, lime also helps to relieve many digestive ailments including constipation, heartburn, indigestion, and bloating. So go ahead and add a little to all your meals!

"A Change is Coming"

webecoist.com

Rainy evenings. Light fog. Chilly mornings. Sweltering days. Seems like there’s a malfunction up there in the abode of the weather gods? Or maybe the gods really have gone crazy this time.


All I know is, Its that time of the year again. When everyone you meet says “there’s something going around” Here are some simple ways to dodge those mid-season viral/flu attacks!


Remember your ABCs – this is the time when taking your daily dose of multivitamins really counts. If you are regular about getting your supplements , you are sure to see a healthy resistance to those awful sneezy, coughing, bouts your friends and collegues all seem to be getting around you. So make sure you are getting enough vitamin C (through oranges, juice, even green chillies), calcium (from milk, cheese,yoghurt and other dairy products) and other essential vitamins (best through a multivitamin).


Bundle Up – feel like your body thermometer has gone out of whack? Walk out of the house in a tee feeling hot as hell, and yet a few hours later start feeling like there’s a chill in the air? Its just one of the signs of the changing season. To avoid getting catching a chill, make sure to carry a light jacket or a shawl with you when you leave home in the morning. A small umbrella you can carry in your bag isn’t such a bad idea either. You never know if its going to be one of those freakish rainy days in December!


Raw Power – raw fruits and veggies. Why? Because the nutritional content of vitamins and minerals found in raw foods is much, much higher than it is when foods are cooked. So try and get a bowl of salad into your lunch and dinner if possible. Mix some lettuce, red and green capsicum, bean sprouts, and maybe some mushrooms to make a wholesome appetizer. And for dessert? Go for some melon, banana, grapes, oranges, or an apple. Getting enough of these two food groups ensures your body has the fighting power it needs to block off any unwanted infections in the air.

"Detox Dilemma"

watchmojo.com

Fatigue. Dull skin. Dry or greasy hair. Brittle Nails. Irritability. Depression. Low resistance to flus and viruses. Mood swings. Sleep problems. Stress. Digestive problems. Mouth ulcers. Muscle and joint pain. Migraines. Dark circles. Nausea.


Sound a little too familiar? If you have two or more of these symptoms, chances are you are suffering the consequences of a build of toxins in the body. And where and how do these toxins come from? Well they come both internal and external environments. Some toxins are a result of the waste products naturally created by our own body’s digestive systems, while others are a product of certain harmful presences in our external environments. And what might these be? Cigarettes, alcohol, pollution in the air, medications, and preservatives in food, artificial flavors and coloring are the most common culprits.

But wait a minute, isn’t the body meant to be able to get rid of these toxins on its own? Well, yes, that is indeed true. But, and this is the kicker, if there the levels of toxins in the body are too high, our body’s simply are no match for these nasties. Instead, the body begins to struggle in its resistance, the organs begin to slow in their function, and slowly you start to notice that you are showing some of the symptoms listed above  So how does one solve these problems of physical and mental deterioration without getting weaker and more agitated?

That’s where Detox come in. There are two common goals which form the basis of almost any detox plan. They are the cleansing and the rejuvenation of the body. The principles are essentially as follows: you cut down on the amount of energy you take in through food, reduce if not completely stop the intake of any toxins into your system, drink loads of water to drain the body of toxins, eat a healthy and nutritious diet, and get regular exercise. And research shows that if done safely and for a reasonable length of time, most detox plans have a beneficial impact on our physical well-beings. But, and this is important girls and boys, make sure you understand one thing clearly and that’s the following. Although some detox plans do have the effect of some weight loss, they ARE NOT to be confused with weight-loss plans.

So I know what you are thinking. It’s all too complicated; you wouldn’t know what to cut and what to keep.Want to start with something doable? Some of the simplest detox plans would include cutting out the following from your diet: meat, alcohol, coffee, tea, and processed sugars (ie any of those sugary desserts and soft drinks!). Of course you would have to make sure you are getting loads of fresh vegetables (both cooked and raw), plenty of water, fruit juices, and some fruit as well.

You could try it for a week and see if you notice any differences in how your body (and mind) feel!

Remember, your body is a temple. Treat it gently and with respect, and it will be kind to you all through your life :)

"Party Smart"

embridge.gov.uk

The festive season. Diwali, Christmas, and New Years Eve. The best friends wedding. Your brothers birthday. Not to mention so-and-sos anniversary. And of course their sons 1st birthday! The list goes on and on and on…..and so does the eating, the drinking, the merriment, and the mayhem.


And after a few short weeks you start to notice the not-so-small things. Those jeans that don’t zip up as easily. That dress that now fills out in all the wrong places. The suit that fits a little too snugly. Welcome to the festive season - in which you mourn the loss of your waistline, your 6-pack, and that oh-so-toned butt! So whats a party animal to do?

Not to worry, I am here to help :) Its time to take control ladies and gentlemen. Here are a few simple tricks to surviving this party season with your waistline (and party reputation!) intact



Pre-Dinner Dinner! Want to know where the worst damage from this season of celebration comes from? Steaming hot, usually fried, superloaded with sugar, ghee, cream, snacks aka dinner party meals that are served during this time of the year. Think about it. If you are planning a party inviting 50 odd people who you want to impress, the last thing you are going to offer them is a plate of steamed veggies and salad right?! That’s exactly why you tend to see an assortment of chips, pakoras, parathas, kebabs, and other heavy dishes served at these events. Now, I am not saying be a saint and don’t touch the stuff. Instead,I would suggest, grab a little something light and healthy to eat at home before you head out to the party. Call it a mini-meal, maybe a bowl of sabzi with a little dal. This way you kill 2 birds with one stone: the first being that you don’t attack the buffet the minute you see it (which is usually past ten at most parties) since you are already full from your earlier meal. And when you do decide you indulge a little (and hey we all should since the season only comes around once a year!) you can keep things under control (just one pakora and not 4).Secondly, your stomach is well lined before you begin to drink up.


Liquid Diets – Which brings me to tip number two. If eating out is the cause of your greatest downfall in this season, then drinking is the sneakiest, most stealthy adversary out there. To tell the truth, most of us would never have guessed that even if you are balanced with your eating, and carefully watch what you fill your plate with at parties, you can often get more calories from a couple of drinks than from all that stuff on your plate. Shocking, but sadly, true girls and boys. Hard alcohol, particularly whiskey, vodka, and rum, can all set you back a couple of hundred calories per drink. In contrast, beer and wine are lower in caloric count. So beware of any cocktails that sound like they belong in a travel catalogue “Sunset in Paradise” or have multiple alcohols “Long Island Iced Teas”.while they may look like the prettiest and taste more like dessert than drinks, they are most often loaded with sugars and syrups, and usually the culprit for getting a little “too happy”.

An Active Social Life – I like to think of the famous quote “work hard, party harder” and tweak it slightly to make it “party hard, work out harder” :) this ones a no brainer people. In order to stay in somewhat decent shape through the season of overindulgent, utterly decadent, over the top parties, you need to literally put your back into it! So get yourself into those walking shoes and get your morning jog, power yoga class, gym hour, kickboxing going in high gear and combat those killer calories coming your way!

"The Truth about Tattoos"

tattoo-ebook.com

So you feel like being bad. Rebelling. Making a statement of your very own. And what better way than to express yourself than getting something etched into your skin for the whole world to see?


Today, tattoos are all the rage. Its as if in the last 5 years have seen a revival of this raw, albeit painful, almost amimalistic art form. But just like any other major decision in your life, this is a biggie. So take some time to prepare yourself before you make that final call.


Think about it – do your research: Think very carefully about what you want as your tattoo. Remember that these things are permanent (unless you have a lot of extra cash for painful laser removal which isn’t of course without its own risks!) and you really want to be sure of what it is you want put on your skin.


Plan, plan, plan (where, how, when) – clean, cleaner, cleanest: say it with me guys. The single most important thing to consider when trying to decide which parlour to get your skin inked at is its hygiene standards. Make sure to check that the artists there are minimizing the health risks of tattooing by using disposable needles and sterilized instruments, as well as maintaining a superclean environment in general. You also want to go to a place which has a reputation for its craft (ie. Make sure if you are going through all that pain – and trust me, there is some pain --- you want the job to look fantastic and not like some schoolkid scribbled on you with a needle!).



The Big Decision - Numbing gel vs None: Basically you have a choice. You can either choose to go with using a numbing gel, which dulls the sensation in that area of the skin which is getting tattooed. Or you can choose to go gel-free. It really depends on the kind of person you are, and how you look at the whole process. I for one, felt strongly that a crucial part of my getting my tattoo was to be present, and fully aware of the entire experience. And after two and a half hours of work, I don’t regret my decision for a minute. But here again, if you are a person with a low tolerance to pain (hmmm, so a tattoo, really??) you would probably be better off using the gel.


After Care: Almost as important is picking the right, reputable, clean place to get your tattoo art done, is what you do after the job is done. You need to treat your tattoo just like an open wound. Make sure to follow the instructions given to you by your tattoo artist. These would include to clean it regularly with damp cloth, use anti-bacterial soap and cream, and avoiding direct sunlight on it for a few days. Do this with a strict discipline and you can be sure you will have a gorgeous new tattoo to show off, infection-free and something you can be proud of :)


Alternatives: Finally, if you are not 1000% (yes that’s a thousand and not a typo) sure of wanting to get that tattoo done, just don’t do it. Wait. Think it over, and wait some more. Maybe try some fun alternatives to see how you would like it. Stick-on tattoos usually last about a week and can look pretty convincing too! You could also try a henna tattoo which lasts even longer. And when, and only when, you are sure, go ahead and get yourself inked!

"Running Tips from the Insider"

scrapetv.com

Want to make the most of your morning run? Here are some easy ways to add a spring to your step and keep you smiling mile after mile after mile!


Move that body - Create a fun, energized playlist on your ipod. Work it out so each track builds a tempo, slowly building up to a peak, helping you to push that much harder when your bodys beginning to ache. (some awesome tracks include “I gotta feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas and “Dhan ta nan” from the film Kaminey!)* find my current playlist below

Light and easy - Always wear comfortable, fuss-free running gear! Reebok, Nike and Adidas all make dri-fit clothing which allows the body to breathe while absorbing sweat fast!

Drink up! Make sure you take breaks to drink a couple of sips of water every few kilometers, this keeps you hydrated and allows you to run further.

Heel to toe - Make sure those feet are properly cushioned and protected from painful blisters by wearing the right shoes – there is no room for substitutes here people, if you are going to start running outdoors or even on your treadmill, make sure you are wearing a pair of comfortable, well made running shoes (and yes, they are different from basketball, track, football, and aerobic shoes).

Run Safe – Always keep an eye (and an ear if you are using your ipod) out for the traffic around you when you are running on the road. In fact, the smartest thing to run is to find a route where you are running against the traffic so that you can see the cars/crazy bus drivers/Micheal Schumacher wannabe heading in your direction, and carefully jog out of the way. Also, and this is more for the ladies, try and avoid running in the dark or in any lonely areas where the chance of unfun encounters of the slimball type are kept to the minimum – remember run safe, and you run smart!

Running Tracks that keep me Going (and going and going and going…!)

Harder, Better, faster, stronger – Kayne West
Ruby – Kaiser chiefs
Fire Burning the Dancefloor – Sean Kingston
Let it Ride - Kevin Rudolf feat Lil Wayne
Shine On – RIO
I know you Want me – Pitbull
Smooth Criminal – Micheal Jackson
Dhan Ta Nan – Kaminey
American Boy – Estelle
Love is Gone – David Guetta

"Learn your ABC's"

healthorg.com

Ok so we all know that deep friend pakoras, double-cheese burgers with fries on the side, and double friend eggs are not necessarily the way to eat yourself to good health.


Instead, the emphasis of almost every sane diet (yes, I am NOT a believer in crazy “5 walnuts for lunch” and “Cabbage soup for a week” diets working in the long run!) is on fresh foods, lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as proteins and carbohydrates. So we know where to get all our amazing, wonderful, super healthy vitamins from but we still don’t really know why we need them! Here’s the short version of a loooooong list of the greatest reasons to keep going back for more of these goodies in your daily diets!



Vitamin A – helps in the healthy formation of bones, skin and teeth.

Vitamin B2 - Promotes growth and helps in reproduction. Helps to get healthy hair,skin, nails, and works to burn carbohydrates, fat and protein

Vitamin B3 - very effective in lowering LDL or “bad cholesterol” and raising HDL also called “good cholesterol”, it also promotes a healthy digestive system, increases blood circulation, reduces high blood pressure, also is a possible cancer inhibitor

Vitamin B5 - Helps in normal growth and development.

Vitamin B6 - Works to metabolize protein and helps the functioning of the nervous system.

Vitamin B12 - Essential for blood formation and a healthy nervous system.

Vitamin C – Is a powerful antioxidant which may protect against certain types of cancers, cataracts and heart disease. Also fights infection and helps the body heal faster. Vitamin B1 – Helps in digestion of carbohydrates, key for the normal functioning of nerve tissue, muscles and heart.
Vitamin D – helps in the absorption and use of calcium, builds bone mass and prevents boss loss, strengthens the nervous system, protects against muscle weakness.

Vitamin E – promotes healthy skin, helps to keep a good circulatory function, is a strong anti-oxidant, and strengthens the immune system.

Vitamin K – helps in the clotting of blood and prevents excessive bleeding. Also helps in the absorption of calcium in the body.

"Flower Power"

upload.wikipedia.com

Alright guys, today is your LUCKY day! I am here to give you a little insight as to how to get the attention, and I mean make-her-melt -at –the-very –thought-of-you, of that one girl who makes your heart melt like butter….you know who she is! It’s a little secret which isn’t so secret and yet, very few men seem to remember. And if used right, it guarantees success in any venture, be it the romantic kind or otherwise.


Women love flowers.

That it. Women. Love. Flowers.

And trust me, when they say actions speak louder than words, this is what they are talking about! I have yet to meet a women who hasn’t smiled, laughed, cried, squeeled with glee, or just “ooooooooooooooooohhhed” when she opened the door to see that simple, yet, perfect gift. Whether its from the elegant florist down the street or handpicked from the garden doesn’t matter, coz really, truly, no matter how corny it sounds,

In this case, it’s the thought that counts :) and flowers make everybody feel special. And that’s the kicker….its that feel good sensation which leads to a gamut of the good stuff…happiness, and a sense of heightened spirits allows for the body to feel energized and ready to go. It boosts the immune system, and makes people feel better. So there you have it, happiness, really makes you healthier! Heres a low down on the different kinds of petals and what they represent:

Birds of Paradise – Joyfulness, magnificance

Jasmine – elegance, grace

Red Roses – love, passion, desire

White Roses – Eternal love

Yellow Roses - friendship

White Lily - purity

Tulips - declaration of love

Orchids - rare beauty

Sunflowers – pure thoughts, adoration

Carnations – pride, beauty, deep love

Daisy – innocence



So what are you waiting for?? Get happy and make someone smile – just Say it with flowers…..

"Color me Crazy"

upload.wikipedia.com

I don’t know about you, but I live my life in technicolor! My moods can literally be affected by the colors on and around me, and guess what, turns out I am not the only one of my kind.

Blues make me feel cool and refreshed, like I am lounging in the Greek Islands.. .Green makes me feel iike I am connected to nature, revitalized and fresh! Yellow, of course, is the color of sunshine :) you cant help but smile when you are around it! And white gives me a sense of purity, balance and calms my sometime frazzled nerves! On the other hand, I stay away from Red, which just feels too hot and exhausting for me, while Grey --- well, it just that --- a little too dull for my taste!

 Think about it, how many times have you bought something (think phone, clothes, bag, shoes, even a car) totally, if not partially based on if you like its color. I mean of course other qualities matter; functionality, brand, quality etc, but doesn’t it give it that much more of an edge if you like the particular shade of pink in which it comes? And why is it that people get depressed when they spend too much time in rooms which have dull, faded paint on the walls? This ability to affect things can go as far as the actually playing a role in enhancing the mental frame of mind of people and it makes me think, if colors can play such an important part of our lives, I for one, would like to learn a little more about the stuff..


Heres some interesting stuff researchers have found associated with specific colors:

Red – powerful color linked with ambition and vitality and is believe to overcome negativity. However, if used in excess Its also associated with anger! Buyer beware!

Turquise – this shade of blue/green is believed to be revitalizing and calming. Meant to reduce physical and mental fatigue and inspire greater creativity, and better communication. Perfect for solving romantic stress don’t you think?

Orange – it’s the happy colour! Believed to stimulate the mind and encourage positive thinking! Guaranteed to bring that “bounce” into your daily grind

Pink – believed to be a colour which is emotionally soothing and calming. For those days you want that “warm fuzzy feeling” girls and boys!

"Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger"

 

images.teamsugar.com

Fact: Running outdoors can burn up to 40% more calories than running on the treadmill in the gym.

It’s the ultimate in its “feed-good” factor. It challenges you each time to do it. It works the ENTIRE body. And, oh yes, it guarantees you look…F-I-T.

Getting started – at the onset, you may find yourself getting breathless very easily making it difficult for you to jog continuously. In this case, I would suggest jogging at an even pace for one minute, and then walking at a brisk pace for four minutes. As your endurance increases, you can increase the amount of time spent running vs walking.

Going outside – Road running can be hard on the body. Because of the fact that you are dealing with a constantly changing incline in the road, with shifting wind patterns, not to mention the outdoor weather (verrrry different from your 21 degree air-conditioned gym temps!), you need to run smarter. First off, start by running on a softer surface like mud or a running track in a park. This is kinder on the knees while getting you used to the external environment. Then, gradually begin to run on asphalt, keeping it slow and steady so as not to injure yourself or overdo it too soon!

Finding your path – Its always a good idea to spend some time thinking about the details of your running route: how long its going to take, which part is going to be tough, the bit that’s a little easier, and where you’ll need to push yourself. If you prepare yourself for the run mentally, it will give you that much more ability to put it your 100% effort.

Mixing it up – Change the speed, distance covered, and terrain of your run by spending some days working on distance, others covering flyovers (increased incline), and some just running fast on shorter distances. Avoid doing the same route more than twice a week if possible – it will keep you from getting mentally fatigued and will also boost your body’s fitness by forcing it to adapt.

So get out there and do something which really gets the body going, believe me, it will leave you feeling fitter, and better than ever before!!

"The Goods on Green Tea"

topnews.in

So how many of us don’t quite feel completely human (or at least not ready to have a sane conversation with anyone) until we have had that daily morning fix? That oh-so- familiar whiff of chai floating around the house, or maybe if you lived down south, it was the strong smell of a good cup of coffee, just the right stuff to get your day off to a kick start! Or is it?? Guess what guys, there’s a new kid on the block of morning/afternoon/break time beverages…and its called Green tea.

The last decade has seen researchers discover benefit after benefit of green tea, with particular emphasis on its potential to fight cancer and heart disease. It has also been linked with the ability to lower cholesterol, aid in weight loss and possibly preventing diabetes and stroke. Its biggest claim to fame is the fact that it is filled with powerful antioxidants, that help the body build resistance and fight off all kinds of harmful infections and disease. Sounds like its worth a try right?


Having been a regular drinker of green tea for the last five years, I could definitely claim to be a convert to the stuff. It does, however, have a different flavor, a little bitter depending on the kind of green tea you are drinking, which could take some getting used to. Most importantly though, ever since I began to drink it, I have seen an improvement in my digestion (particularly if you drink a cup after your lunch and dinner) as well as general feeling of calm and balance in my body in general. Maybe its psychological, but hey, maybe not! Generally I would not suggest mixing it with either sugar or milk, rather I would say, just add hot water to the leaves or dip the tea bag in a cup and leave it to brew for about 5 minutes. Then just sip and enjoy your cuppa :)

You can buy Twinings Green Teabags in two flavors (Lemon or Mint) from your neighbourhood store for Rs 110/pack.

"The Five Golden Rules"

bodyfitnesshealth.com

Want to know the secret of how A-listers (read Megan Fox and Cameron Diaz) get the optimum BOOM from their power workouts? Here’s 5 ways to make yours count!


a. Fuel Up – Never work out on an empty stomach. You could choose between a fruit like an apple or banana or a light carb breakfast such as a bowl of cereal, a while before exercising, ensuring you have the energy you need for that workout. Additionally, you could try to drink a glass of water about 10 minutes before you start your jog – its meant to quicken hydration by pushing the water into the system more effectively, leaving you running better, for longer 

b. Don’t watch that Clock! Not only will the minutes pass by faster if you don’t keep your eyes glued to that clock, you are also more likely to slow the pace if you know you only have a few minutes left. If you are one of those people who absolutely has to check on the time, then set yourself a goal of completing a certain distance (or number of calories burned) within that time frame so you stay motivated to work hard!

c. Keep the Body Guessing.... All the experts agree that bodies get used to the same cardio. And what happens when your body is doing the exact same thing in the gym everyday at 7am?? It simply stops responding as well. The best way to avoid this problem? Mix it up. In other words, keep changing the kind of cardio you are doing! So instead of running on the same speed on the same treadmill every day, spend two days doing a spinning class and the other three on the treadmill changing your speed and incline each time! The more variety you add to your workout, the more your body will respond, and the more fat you’ll burn.

d. Breathe your way ---- to a flat stomach! Surprise, surprise! But getting that flat stomach is as much to do with your breathwork as it has to do with eating well. One sure fire way to toughen those core muscles is to breathe out (even blow out audibly) when curling up while doing sit-ups. The less air in the lungs, the more forcible the muscle contraction = flatter, stronger abs you can be proud of!

e. ….And Stretttchhh - In my books, this is THE MOST IMPORTANT post-workout exercise you can do. Not only does the stretching align the muscles to give your body that great, lengthened appearance while increasing your strength and flexibility, it also allows for the release of lactic acid to help the muscles recover correctly.

"Vital Vitamins: Know Your Foods"

myhealthaid.files.wordpress.com

No matter what background, ethnicity, religion, caste or creed, as kids we all grew up hearing the same phrases “finish up all your vegetables!” “Why? Because its good for you, that’s why!” and “I want to see that plate empty!” Back then all we knew was that ice-cream, cookies, and chocolate cake were always welcome and vegetables, fruit, and milk products ummmmm, not so much!


But today, in the midst of the vegan diet craze, liquid detox, and superfood mania, we are all in need of some simple explanation as to where exactly we can find these nutrients.

Vitamins are called “essential compounds” and cannot be made by our own bodies, so must come from diet. They can be either fat-soluble (vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K) or water-soluble (vitamin B and vitamin C). Ideally, you should be getting enough vitamins from eating a balanced diet, which should include at least 5 portions of fruits and veggies a day, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, fish and poultry. By steaming, pressure cooking, or microwaving your food you are also preserving more vitamins than if you were to boil it.

So here is an easy way to help you keep that plate loaded with all the right stuff!

Vitamin A – Find it in yellow orange fruits and vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, papaya, mango, sweet potato, cantaloupe and spinach.

Vitamin B1 – Find it in sunflower seeds, whole grains, seafood, beans,
Vitamin B2 - Find it in yoghurt, milk, leafy vegetables, fruits, almonds, chicken
Vitamin B3 - Find it in peanut butter, chicken breast, beans
Vitamin B5 - Find it in egg, fish, grains, meat, peas, peanuts
Vitamin B6 - Find it in bananas, baked potatoes, chicken, oats, chick peas, peanuts
Vitamin B12 - Find it in dairy products, eggs, fish

Vitamin C – Find it in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, sweet limes, guava, gooseberry, strawberries, melons, broccoli, red capsicum and green capsicum

Vitamin D – Find it in fatty fish, egg yolk, fortified milk, and exposure to direct sunlight (five to ten minutes, 3-4 times a week)

Vitamin E –Find it in vegetable oils, broccoli, peanuts, whole grains, sunflower seeds, mayonnaise, sweet potato

Vitamin K – Find it in dark green leafy vegetables, potato, beetroot, fruits, dairy products, eggs, seeds, meats

"Stuck in a Rut?"

rlv.zcache.com

Treadmill. Weights. Treadmill. Weights. Treadmill…..Stuck in a rut? Is your workout the same old repetition of cardio and weights which makes you feel like a robot just going through the motions and not really getting that adrenaline rush or even enjoying it? Sure, it was fun when you started, but now, 3 months later, its just sooooooooooooooo borring!


What you need is a c-h-a-n-g-e!

If you are looking for a challenge and want to try something which pushes your body to perform at its peak, then Yoga is your answer. Surprised? Let me guess, you are on of those people who thinks yoga is for old people who don’t really want to break a sweat and all that “breathe in, relax, breathe out”looks too easy breezy for you! It’s a common misconception many people have. Let me repeat: MISCONCEPTION ( also called a delusion!).

Having practiced yoga for almost a decade now, I have personally seen and experienced the amazing benefits one gets from taking up this form of physical exercise on a regular basis. According to yoga, it is through the practice of asanas (postures) that one is able to strengthen the physical body. And let me put it this way, it makes you WORK.

Yoga encapsulates strengthening every, single, part of your body, from the inside out. And there are a myriad of reasons why you should try it. Here are just a few: increased strength, improved digestion, increased metabolic rate, better blood circulation (clear skin and rosy cheeks!), increased lung power, stamina boosting, improved immune function, greater flexibility, the list goes on and on and on :)

The beauty of this form of exercise is that you can make it as tough, or as easy, as you need it to be! Join a power yoga class and burn those calories through repetitions of suryanamaskars. Or take a beginners class and work on static poses which invigorate the body and challenge the core. Add three classes on simple, traditional yoga into your weekly workout plan. Give it a month and watch your body say a BIG thank you!

"The Buzz on Superfoods"

thevyne.files.wordpress.com

Beans, Broccoli, Oats, Soy, Spinach, Blueberries, Oranges, Pumpkin, Salmon, Tea (Green or Black), Tomatoes, Walnuts, Yoghurt, Dark Chocolate, Pomegranate, Asparagus, Brown Rice, Dark Green Vegetables,


Sound like the regular grocery list mom makes when she’s getting ready to go the market?

Not quite. These everyday products, which most of us have eaten all our lives, or at least been forced to eat by mom (read: broccoli and beans!), are now included in an elite group of foods called the “Superfoods”. Something superman eats? Not exactly, but pretty close!! Basically, doctors, scientists, researchers and all those other experts out there have come up with the concept. based on the fact that not all foods are created equal, and indeed, there are some foods that are “more equal” than others, this concept focuses on certain foods which are literally packed with all the good stuff we need! Am talking nutrient values like potassium, vitamin C, antioxidents, Omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, fiber, and more…stuff that essentially builds stronger immunity and resistance to disease, prevents illness like cancer and diabetes, lowers cholesterol and high blood pressure, and keeps the body happy!

You don't need specific foods for specific ailments. A healthy diet incorporating a variety of the above superfoods will help you maintain your weight, fight disease, and live longer. One thing they all have in common is that each and every superfood is going to be a 'real' (unprocessed) food product. In simple speak that means there no preservatives, additives, artificial coloring, or any ingredients which sound like they belong in a chemistry lab instead of on your plate! And guess what the best part of getting your regular superfood fix is? No side effect. Except for all the great ones like healthy skin and nails, increased energy levels, fat and weight reduction, and living a longer and heathier life!

So whats not to love?

"Core Power"

goodhousekeeping.com

So its that time of the year again. The rains are over, and the party season is around the corner. Navratri, Diwali, Christmas, and New Years. Not to mention weddings, engagements, birthdays, and those “oh so page 3” parties. Translation: its see and be seen time people….when its all about the that perfect dress, the shortest skirts, the skinniest jeans, the backless cholis, and of course the Perfectly. Flat. Belly.


Not to worry ladies, we all have hope! Have found, and am (very!) generously willing to share with you some tried and tested (by moi, yours truly) core strengthening moves that are guaranteed to help you get those torsos into shape for the season!

• Stabilty Ball Pull-Ins: Get into plank position, but instead of placing your feet on the floor, prop up your legs with a stability ball. With your ankles on top of the ball and your arms and back aligned, your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your feet. Bend your knees and use your core to roll the ball toward your chest. Pause, then extend your legs to return the ball to start. Repeat 5 to ten times.

• Bridge Pose (Setubandhasana): Lie down on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the ground and pointing straight ahead. Rest your arms by the side of your body with palms facing the floor. Taking a deep breath in, draw in your belly and try to maintain this throughout the exercise. Slowly contract the muscles of the buttocks, and lift your hips off the ground until your hips, knees and shoulders are in one straight line. Hold for upto 20 seconds and slowly lower back down. Repeat upto 5 times.

"To Stretch or Not to Stretch"

fitnessnyc.files.wordpress.com

Hello, my name is Diya and I am an adrenalin junkie. What some might call a “fitness freak”. Challenging my body and mind in different forms of exercise and physical activity is something I have loved ever since the day I first discovered the “feel good” burst of euphoria one can only get from endorphins being released into the bloodstream. And that, my friends, is the ultimate high :) In the last decade I have hiked up Table mountain (South Africa), completed multiple half-marathons, practiced yoga, hot yoga, power yoga, vinyasa yoga, taken salsa classes, kickboxing lessons, and some seriously tough pliometrics (aka army style exercises from hell).


But my point is that throughout it all, aches and pains, sore knees, and stiff muscles, not only was my body able to recover, but it was able to continue. And I attribute it all to the simple action of stretching. To many people, stretching is a waste of time which they are impatient to get through so that they can get to the “real exercise”. A lot of these same people end up with chronic ligament pain, stiffness they cant seem to get rid of, and joints which have little or no ability to stretch, at least not without significant discomfort. In my books, effective stretching plays one of the most critical, if not the most critical, part of any workout regime.

It’s the simple, gentle movements which take only upto a maximum of ten minutes which allow the body to slowly warm up, heating up the muscles and preparing them to engage in more challenging physical activity. In fact stretching post a workout (especially after running or any intensive activity) is the best time to work on increasing the flexibility of the body. Of course, there are also some who feel like stretching prior to exercise can also cause pain since the muscles are cold at this time…I personally do not agree, but would suggest you try it yourself and see how your body feels. Then, go with what feels good for you!

"Move the Body"

images5.exercise.com

Wake to the buzzer at 8am. Jump in the shower. Grab a shot of caffeine. Jump in the train/cab/car. Conference call in your commute. Fix the days agenda. Change the days agenda. Plan meetings. Delay meetings. Run into office by 10am – just in time for your boss’s bad mood. Work.Coffee.Work.Coffee.Work. Coffee. Pack up at 9pm. Lucky you, got out early. Leftovers for dinner. Lights out by mid-night.


Sound familiar? That’s because it is. Too many of us are living the same way: surviving on too little sleep, working on nervous energy, eating the wrong food, and basically headed straight for a heart attack. If this describes your life, you need to do something. Now.

It’s about small changes. They make a huge impact. Get yourself moving. Find a sport you love, join a dance class, start power yoga, or just run in your neighborhood. Don’t make an excuse. You can find the time to do this. Before work, after work, in your lunch break, on the weekends. Just do something. Find something you love, then stick to it. endorphins released in the body after about 35 minutes of cardiovascular exercise are directly related to improved moods. and when you add to that the fact that a regular workout improves the blood circulation and skin tone, giving you that glow and boosts your metabolic rate leading to a leaner, lighter you, it’s a no-brainer.

You’ll find yourself happier, feeling better about your life, working better, and best of all your body will thank you. So, get out there and do something!

"Smart Snacking"

oregonwomensreport.com

Remember when we were kids and ate practically everything in sight without a second thought? Back when we counted scoops of ice-cream and not calories, when “deep fried” and “trans fat” were not evil words, and when we were ALWAYS ready for seconds? Sigh! Unfortunately, as adults we see the consequences of our eating habits show up pretty soon (usually in the form of a widening ummm silhouette or having to fight your way into that pair of jeans which used to fit like a dream!) Reality Check: You are what you Eat and the sooner you start taking control of your eating habits, the fewer issues you can expect later in life (read: high bp, obesity, diabetes, heart problems).
Here are 3 easy ways to get started snacking smart!



1. Save your second helping. For tomorrow. – This is not your last day on the planet. In any case, no food tastes as good if you’re eating it after you are already full. the secret to eating the right quantity? Stop when you are three quarters full, and then just wait… Voila! You will notice that in about fifteen minutes you are not in the least bit hungry. And best of all, you don’t feel like you have stuffed yourself silly!

2. Chew, Chew and Chew again! It’s a proven fact that the more you chew and the slower you eat, the more time your body has to register fullness. Not just that, when you chew your food completely (say about 18 times per morsel) the saliva in your mouth is able to work on it most effectively and begins to start breaking it down immediately, making it that much easier to digest!

3. If it’s not around, you cant eat it! You’re on your fav spot on the sofa watching “Channel V’s Get Gorgeous” when you suddenly get the urge for Brand X Extra Cheesy Potato Chips. If all you have to do is walk to the kitchen, you’re guaranteed to grab that bag and attack! But what if you have to put on your shoes, get in the car, and drive to the store? Chances are you just couldn’t be bothered. Guess laziness isn’t always a bad thing. :)

"Its All About the Honey"

image3.examiner.com

I am one of those people who is all about healthy living. Words like “natural remedies” , “preservative free” and “Organic” are amongst my favorites and not just because they’re the latest craze in Hollywood AND Bollywood (everyone who’s anyone is talking about “superfoods” and their connections to glowing skin and toned thighs!), but because I have personally experienced the benefits of switching to natural!


So hey, lets make it simple and talk about some “magic healers” much closer to home…I’m talking sitting on your kitchen shelf!

So whats the magic word?? Well, two words actually. According to many doctors, when taken as a combination, the mixture of honey (yup that sweet, sticky stuff we all know and love!) and cinnamon, is a super-strong multi-ailment cure for all kinds of awful aches and pains including heart disease, high cholesterol, bad breath, toothaches, weight reduction and even hair loss!

Many naturalists claim that consuming a mix of honey and cinnamon paste on a regular basis is an efficient way to boost the power of the immune system, reduce feelings of low energy and fatigue and even works to help us live longer!

Here are some easy recipes using these 2 super”natural” ingredients as remedies for common problems we all face:


Colds: To get rid of that constant sniffling-sneezy feeling just take one tablespoon of lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process is said to cure most chronic coughs, cold, as well as clear the sinuses.

Acne: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the areas with acne before sleeping and gently rinse with warm water the next morning. If done daily for two weeks, it claims to clean out skin pores all the way to their deepest roots, where the acne-creating bacteria is lodged!

Weight Reduction: Drinking a mixture of a teaspoon of honey with half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder boiled in water (to make a small cup) on an empty stomach first thing in the morning about half an hour before breakfast is said to work to metabolize fatty acids in foods faster, allowing you to burn more calories!

A bit of friendly advice: always remember, to lose those extra kilos and sustain that weight loss in a healthy way you need to focus on a balanced combination of a nutritious diet and regular exercise!

Finally, I would recommend you try and buy an organic brand of honey if possible, and use freshly ground cinnamon whenever available.

"Get Your Daily Dose"

smallbites.andybellatti.com

You know how mom always nags you about " An apple a day, blah, bhah," keeping the doctor away? Turns out, she's sorta, kinda, ummm right!!! who knew??


But its true guys, ever since I started taking my daily multi-vitamin (just one cute pink pill), I feel like my energy levels have been amped, my naturally cheerful personality seems to have developed an ever sunnier disposition, my skin, hair and eyes are literally shining, in short, I feel fantastic! But the best part is that I honestly cannot for the life of me, remember the last time I was home sick with a dreaded nasty, achy-painy, life-sucking,feel-like-u-want-to-cry-for-mommy flu.


And even if i ever do get bitten by some strange mutated new syndrome, "viral fever", crazy rat/bird flu,or any other kind of bug, I seem to bounce back from it, and back to my healthy energetic self in a maximum of two days....this I have tested people. Long story short, taking your regular dose of a multivitamin is good for you all round. These little pink/white/you pick your shade capsules are packed with antioxidants, minerals, and of course vitamins which basically optimize the functioning capacity of your body's organs while strengthening your immune system. And the stronger your immunity, the easier it is for you to totally resist any infection attempting to attack your body.

So be smart in these days of swine flu, and take your daily dose of the good stuff!

You can find multivitamins for both men and women at your nearest GNC, or just talk to your doctor for some more brand options.

"Go Bananas"

medicalcravings.com

If there was ever a food which could be called an “all-rounder” this would be it. It’s a whole mini-meal in one neat package. Athletes swear by it. Sportspeople cant do without it. You can put it in a shake. You can add it to a fruit salad. You can mash it. You can slice it. The birds love it. The bees love it. Even the chimps in the trees love it.


Introducing the one and only, superfood in yellow (or maybe green!) --- the Banana.

And guys, here in the motherland, you can get them just about anywhere. Bananas are often amongst the cheapest fruits you can buy in the market. You can also carry it easily since its peel keeps it fresh and protected until eaten. Even eating it is easy and fuss-free, you can finish it without getting even a fingertip messy! And best of all, they taste great! So now what’s your excuse?

Here are just some of the health benefits of eating the fruit on a regular basis:

- It gives you a healthy digestive system (improves the function of the bowels)

- It boosts energy (used by many runners as a pre-run energy snack)

- It helps reduce water retention (so that you can look fitter and slimmer)

- It makes you Happy (bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that is known to make you feel good and improve your mood)

- It’s a rich source of Iron (which helps prevent and reduce anemia)

- Its loaded with potassium (prevents kidney stones, helps carry oxygen to the brain)

- It helps alleviate the symtoms of PMS (a little extra something for the ladies!)

- Its brain food! (has been shown to help students be more alert and learn better)

"Break Free from Breakouts!"

photobucket.com

Myth: Some people go through life without acne.
All teenagers go through a phase of hormonal changes in their lives which have one common (and rather stressful) side-effect aka acne. The bad news? Acne doesn’t necessarily happen only in our teenage years…sometimes, just for kicks I think, we are those special people who are blessed with the gift of adult acne which tends to set in well after you enter your twenties!


So whats a girl (and yes guy in this case!) to do?? Well the first thing you need to do is get yourself to the neighbourhood chemist and go buy a bottle of a gentle, but good, skin cleanser. Mind you, this is NOT the same as soap! Don’t make the mistake of using your body soap as a facial soap. Most of the soaps we use on our bodies tend to be drying and that, my friends, is no good for your face. I would suggest you try something mild like Garnier’s Clear Facial Cleanser, which has worked great for me for about 5 years now! Besides having access to the soap, you need to be very careful about another awful habit….and that’s the idea of continuously touching your face! Don’t deny it! Everytime you pass by that super-cute Shahid Kapur lookalike or little miss Pretty Smile in the hallway, you reach for your hair/cheek/touch something or the other on your face pretending not to notice them! Well, here’s a news flash guys every little bit of dirt and grime (train railings, cab handles, bus seats, just to name a few) you come in contact with stays on those hands and when you reach for your cute lil cheeks, it just moves there. Enter heat – open pores – and voila! You wake up with a big fat zit. Simple way to avoid this? Wash your hands regularly – preferably with an antibacterial soap – and stay way from that face.

And heres one last tip from a girl who knows. The secret to clear skin is to keep it refreshed, clean, and hydrated. Ie.Drink up girls and boys! Water flushes all the toxins and dirt out of your system, enabling your digestive tract to function properly and keeping your skin looking fantastic! I would say make that 8 glass a day rule mandatory for yourself for a month and see how your skin thanks you.

"Five Reasons to Practice Yoga"

whyyoga.com

1.Flexibility – Here’s a personal guarantee for anyone who begins to practice yoga on a regular basis (which means about three times a week). You will actually see an increase in your flexibility in 4 sessions. Over time you will begin to notice a gradual “loosening” of your joints, and before you know it you will be easing into asanas you never thought were physically possible. All it takes is consistency and repetition WITHOUT forcing your body to go too far, too fast (be warned all you Type A Personalities!).



2. Strength – Literally going hand in hand with increased flexibility is the gradual build up of strength you gain in your body through the practice of yoga. And ladies, I am not talking about the horrible, bulky, female-wrestler type look you can get from lifting too many of those weights at the gym. I am talking about nice, firm abdominal muscles that can ease you into holding your entire body weight for up to a minute in Boat pose. I am talking about beautiful, strong backs which can glide smoothly into a backward bending Cobra pose. And with that strength, comes the added benefit of lowering your risk of arthritis, and back pain later on in life.


3.Weight Control – Here’s the thing. With a regular practice of an invigorating yoga class combined with a sensible diet and lifestyle, you will be able to stay in the healthiest shape of your life AND look great too! Yoga practices like Surya Namaskars will help you burn those extra calories, while the continuous practice of moving with self-awareness will also make you a more conscious eater.


4.Stress Management – The regular practice of yoga postures along with Pranayama (breath control) has actually proven to reduce levels of cortisol in the body. And whats cortisol? Normally, the adrenal glands secrete cortisol in response to an acute crisis, which temporarily boosts immune function. The problem is, If your cortisol levels stay high even after the crisis, they can actually cause more damage than good. Excessive cortisol has been linked with major depression, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, and could also contribute to weight gain and the risk of diabetes and heart attack.

5.A Positive Outlook – One of the most amazing things about yoga is a common “side effect” seen by most people who have practiced it. You actually begin to feel….happier! Ever noticed how people who walk out of yoga studios always tend to have a very zenned out, relaxed look on their faces?? Well, there’s something in the series of movements practiced, combined with breathing techniques and finally relaxation (usually everyone’s favorite pose!) which just allows students to let go of their office desks, their to-do lists, and their worries and leave them all behind. Not just that, people notice themselves actually looking at life and those worries from a positive, optimistic perspective! Now who wouldn’t want that?

"All You Need is Love"

wwwtt.org

Ever noticed how everything just seems umm…nicer, when you’re in love? The birds don’t caw, they chirp. The sun isn’t sweltering, its shining. The rain doesn’t pour, it pitter-patters. Even the harshest words from your boss seem to have a softness to their edge.


Everything feels better. Everything looks brighter. Everything tastes better.

Its true, when you’re in love, the world is a happier place to live in.

Some experts even think that before long, even doctors will start prescribing lots of hugs, cuddles, and romantic weekend trips as ways to better health! Why? Because it has been found that hugging actually induces the body to release Oxytocin. And Oxytocin is a hormone is a hormone that plays a critical role in labor, breastfeeding, and (blush!) even orgasms. In fact, it has been proven that those women with the highest levels of Oxytocin actually have blood pressure levels which are significantly lower than women with lower levels of Oxytocin. And not just that, here are some other reasons why love works! According to many experts love has the power to actually heal the body as well as traditional medicines and can prevent and improve the symptoms of multiple illnesses.

Falling in love induces a calming effect on the body and mind by increasing nerve growth levels, which works to revitalize the nervous system and improves memory by triggering the growth of new brain cells, actually making you brainier!! Corny but true, love is also good for your heart. When you interact with someone you find attractive, your brain actually gets stimulated and sends impulses to the heart making it beat three times faster than normal. The benefit? An increased amount of blood supply to the body, particularly the cheeks, giving you that rosy blush each time you talk to that certain someone!

Love also has another great side effect and this ones the kicker ladies and gentlemen: it’s the fountain of youth! The endorphins produced by the body when in love increase blood flow to the skin, which helps keep it soft and smooth, and reduce the development of wrinkles. Additionally, the increased supply of essential food and oxygen to skin cells when head of heels in love also give the face a happy, pink glow. So what are you waiting for? Lets fall in lovvvvveee……

"Finding fitness from Airport to Airport"

faqs.org

Ever get the feeling you are literally living out of your suitcase? Like you fall asleep in one city and wake up in the next? Life can be a whirlwind of time zones, boarding passes, airport lounges, and jet lag for many of us, often at the cost of our mental and physical well being. I say its time to stop blaming the job, your schedule, and your boss and take matters into your own hands.


Instead of giving up all attempts at living a balanced, some what disciplined life why not try and make the most of your life-in-a-suitcase situation? Here are some easy ways to keep your hectic travel life healthy leaving you feeling fresh and ready to hop on the next flight!

• Stretching in the Skies – Think about all those hours you spend bored out of your mind on the plane…next time you are on board why not take the time to do a couple of basic stretches? Use the floor space underneath the seat in front of you to stretch your legs out, pointing the toes out and then in. follow that with a couple of shoulder rolls and neck rotations and voila – your blood circulations pumping again, muscles are warmed, that crick in your neck has disappeared and your body feels great

• Snacking Smart - being on the move constantly often results in what I call the “cookie monster” syndrome…where you always find yourself reached for the processed, supersugary, fried treats to satiate your appitite. But you want the truth?? Not only is that stuff addictive (the more sugar you consume, the more your body craves the stuff just like nicotine), its awful for you…making the body lethargic and prone to obesity, diabetes, and heart problems. Instead, pack your suitcase with some smarter, healthier stuff you can snack on when hunger attacks next. Natures Valley Granola Bars, baked Soya Chakli from Home Delight and Marie Digestive biscuits are both great options giving you great energy and leaving you feeling full!

• Power moves in your hotel room – who says you need a gym to get a good work out? Take your pick from the following short on time, but high on intensity workouts that keep your body looking like a million bucks AND make sure you arrive early for that conference! If you are a yoga buff, try doing a series of Surya Namaskars (8 to 10 would definitely work up a sweat). For those who like strength exercises do a 3 sets of squats, push-ups, and stationary lunges (10 to 15 reps each). And if you miss your weights? Just zip up that suitcase and use it to do simple side stretches!

"Taste the Rainbow"

upload.wikimedia.org

Who says the healthiest thing you can put on your plate is a helping of boiled, bland and honestly inedible gook (ummm, did someone say brussel sprouts)? According to nutritionists today, your plate should actually be loaded with a whole rainbow of colors – from red to purple and yellow to blue! By including fruits and vegetables from all color groups (listed below) in your daily diet, you will ensure that you are getting enough of the different nutrients and phytochemicals you need to live a healthy and energetic life. And what exactly, might you ask, are these phytochemicals? They are the substances which give fruits and veggies their bright, beautiful, and varied shades of color and also happen to be essential in keeping our bodies strong and free from disease…how’s that for a mouthful to chew on?


Here’s a little color coded help to give you the juice on why certain shades might just do more than look good on you!!


Green: Broccoli, spinach, lettuce, cauliflower, cabbage, green beans, peas and other leafy vegetables all contain infection-fighting nutrients and compounds that prevent diseases including cancer. Green foods also contain the detox mineral sulpher, water and fiber making them great cleansers ridding the body of the toxins that build up due to stress, the intake of alcohol and tobacco, and a generally unhealthy lifestyle. They also are a rich source of vitamins C and K.


Red : Tomatoes, strawberries, red peppers, and raspberries are all loaded with antioxidents, which are the guys that help trap and absorb free radicals which can cause heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses.


White: Milk, white meat (chicken, turkey), shellfish, seafood, dairy products. White foods contain protein packed power that help the body to build muscle to stay strong, active, and ready to go. Dairy products also contain calcium which is an essential mineral for healthy teeth and bones and also may help weight loss.


Purple-Blue: Eggplant (Brinjal) and blueberries. These fruits and vegetables are known to have both antioxidents and phytochemicals which help protect against ulcers, cancer, and bacteria.


Orange-Yellow: Carrots, mangoes, oranges, yellow peppers, melons, peaches, bananas, these sunshine coloured foods are all packed with the super antioxidant beta-carotene and vitamin A, which strengthens the immune system and is also very good for the health of your bones and eyes. Potassium, found in high amounts in bananas, is proven to prevent as well as decrease high blood pressure (think all those stressful deadlines at the office!). Not to mention all the power of vitamin C (ie prevention against infections like flus, colds, sore throats) you can find in your everyday orange!


So ahead and enjoy your next meal in technicolour

"Let the Sunshine In!"

coolrain.44.files.wordpress.com

Today, with all the hype about skin cancer, people have taken to avoiding the sun as much as possible. In addition, we happen to live in a country which is sadly obsessed with the “gori mem complex” where women are encouraged to slather on so called “fairness” creams which promise to change their complexions to a snow-white like hue, therefore ensuring them handsome husbands, successful careers, and fantastic luck for the remainder of their lives.

Well, here’s a news flash: according to recent studies limited (and sunscreen safe!) exposure to sunshine might help you live longer and for some people, the health benefits possibly outweigh the risks of skin cancer! The reason? Sunshine happens to be one of the best sources of Vitamin D, which protects the body from a number of diseases. How, you might ask? Sunlight stimulates the body to produce Vitamin D, which has been proven to protect the body from ailments like diabetes, osteoporosis, and even some forms of cancer. Research shows that modest amounts of sunshine produces the critical amount of vitamin needed to help the body’s immune system function properly.

Vitamin D can also be found in foods including cod liver oil and milk, or could be taken in supplement form. But the way I look at it, why waste your money buying expensive supplements when you can get your daily dose of D for free?? All it takes is spending a few minutes in the sunny outdoors. And whats that magic number? 20. Yup, 20 minutes is all the time it takes for your body to be able to get enough sunlight to manufacture the Vitamin D it needs, without which you risk a whole host of unfun (yes it’s a word) stuff from brittle bones to kidney stones. And in 20 minutes, even in the hottest sunshine (think Delhi in May), you are unlikely to risk burning or damaging your skin through harmful UV exposure because of the short time spent it the sun. The best part? You don’t have to bother changing into your shorts or bathing suit to get these rays! Exposure of just your face and/or arms is plenty!

And just in case I haven’t given you enough reasons to grab some shades and get outside, here’s the icing on the cake. Sunlight also enables the brain to boost its production of serotonin, the feel good hormone, which keeps you feeling good and thinking positive, something you just don’t get being stuck indoors all day long. So go out there and get some sun.....

"Fact vs Fiction: The Truth about Colds!"

ayushveda.com

You know how the minute your mom starts to tell you her opinion on practically anything, it’s like magically we all hit the mute button in our heads and suddenly are able to totally block out anything that’s coming out of her mouth?? When all you see are her lips moving but really can’t hear a thing? Except maybe something that sounds a lot like blahblahblahblahblah…?? Well, let me tell you, sometimes our mothers are actually way smarter than we give them credit for! And here’s one subject on which they ALWAYS had something to say: your COLD!


Mamma always said….

“Feed the cold, starve the fever”

Verdict: Fiction. Although this phrase may sound so familiar to many of us having grown up hearing it from parents, teachers, and even doctors, research shows that there is actually no real evidence to indicate this to be true. Today’s doctors advice? Just listen to your body. If you are hungry, eat something simple and light (fruit, toast, soup preferably home cooked!)

“Wash your hands with soap!”

Verdict: Fact. This is probably the smartest piece of advice your mother ever gave you. Rinsing your hands before and after you eat your meals, as well as after coming in contact with any unhygienic surfaces will be sure to kill those nasty viruses before they get the chance to attack your immune system (or before you spread them to other people). Colds particularly, are commonly caught by touching something or someone who has the virus and then touching ones own mouth or nose. The best way to prevent the sniffles? Washing your hands thoroughly (and regularly) with a good soap (Dettol Liquid Hand soap is great!) or even using a hand sanitizer if you don’t have access to a clean bathroom and soap.

“Chicken soup for the snifflingsneezy soul”

 Verdict: Fact. Sounds crazy? But guess what, some limited studies show that having a bowl of chicken soup when you are down with a cold, may actually help you to recover sooner. Not to mention the fact that consuming a nice, warm liquid will also help to decongest the chest and sinus. Time to stock up on Knorr’s Chicken soup for the next rainy day cold!

“Take lots of Vitamin C”

Verdict: Maybe so, maybe not. Some research suggests that taking vitamin c can help prevent colds as well as speed up the process of recovery from them, while others actually suggest that too much of the stuff can be a bad thing. Again, here most docs will advise you to take that extra “sunshine vitamin” only if it helps you.

“Drink lots of liquids”

Verdict: Fact. Mom was definitely right about this one guys! And the good news is, besides alcohol, it doesn’t matter what you drink, as long as you are regularly rehydrating your body with fluids (think green tea, fruit juice, water, nimbu paani, coconut water, even coffee!)