Your Guide to Beautiful Eyes

Your eyesight is precious and your eyes are one of the most sensitive organs of your body. Here are tips on how to take care of your eyes and get back the twinkle in them:


1. Sleep sound
Sleeping right is the first step to healthy eyes. The eyes need lots of rest especially because we expose them to the rays emitted by computer and television often. A good night's rest helps beat puffiness and redness and leaves you with bright eyes.
 
2. Make a splash 
Splash your eyes with water twice a day. Do this once in the morning after you wake up and once in the night before sleeping to help keep your eyes clean and free from harmful germs.
 
3. Eat right 
What you eat affects your eyes and your eyesight. Eat proper meals during the day. Do not skip breakfast because it is the most important meal of the day. Eat food rich in Vitamins A, C and E, folic acid, selenium and zinc for perfect vision. Supplement your diet with sprouts, apples, broccoli and other fruits and vegetables. Carrots, loaded with beta carotene are especially helpful in maintaining healthy eyes.
 
4. Stay hydrated 
Keep your eyes hydrated at all times. Drink fluids at regular intervals. If you have the problem of dry eyes it's a good idea to visit an eye specialist. You may need moisturising eye drops.
 
5. Follow the 20-20-20 rule
If you are using the computer or watching television for a long time follow the 20-20-20 rule. It's very simple. Sit 20 inches away from the computer screen, take a break every 20 minutes and blink/exercise your eyes 20 times.
 
6. Shield your eyes
If you have a job which requires more than eight hours of computer work, wear a good pair of reflective glasses to protect your eyes and reduce the strain of constant computer viewing.
 
7. Wear sunglasses
UV rays from the sun harm your eyes too. If your job involves a lot of outdoor work, remember to buy a good pair of UV protection glasses. Sunglasses with UV protection are a good idea for those afternoon shopping sprees too.
 
8. Cool your eyes 
One of the most popular and effective ways to take care of your eyes is to keep freshly cut cucumber slices over your eyes for at least 10 minutes before going to sleep every night. It's an effective way to prevent puffiness and inflammation.
 
9. Care for your contacts 
If you use contact lenses regularly, you must take proper care. Change the lens case every two to three months and the lens solution every one to one and a half month. And don't forget to clean your lenses properly before wearing them. 

10. Visit the doc
Visit your eye specialist twice every year. It helps fix any eye problems with glasses, contacts or surgery. You will also be able to detect issues like dry eyes, problems with your retina and even conditions of the whole body like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Five Healthy Juices

Beetroot Juice: If you are feeling low on energy and need a sugar rush? Drink a glass of beetroot juice. Beetroots are a natural source of sugar so beetroot juice makes for a great energy drink. Beetroot juice also helps control blood pressure. What's more, it contains Vitamins B and C too.

Bitter gourd juice: Bitter gourd juice has been advocated by our elders for decades but has only now become popular. People trying to lose weight are most common drinkers of this, as it is completely sugar-free. Bitter Gourd juice is also good for people who suffer from diabetes.

Watermelon juice: Watermelon juice ensures that you get your daily quota of fluids, minerals and salts, keeping your system hydrated. In addition to that, drinking a glass of watermelon juice every day flushes out all the toxins from your body. And you don't have to worry about piling on the pounds because watermelons have low calorie content.

Wheatgrass juice: Wheatgrass juice is made by soaking blades of wheatgrass in water overnight. It may not taste all that great but it is one of the healthiest juices around. Wheatgrass juice contains fibre, which is good for digestion. It also helps remove heavy metals from the digestive system and ease the load on the body. If you suffer from constipation, try this juice.

Carrot juice: Carrots contain Vitamin A which is great for your eyesight. Vitamin A also prevents night blindness. Carrot juice has skin benefits too because it contains carotene. A glass of carrot juice everyday will leave your skin glowing and revitalised. So if you want to prevent wrinkles, you know what to do.

Essential Oils

Aromatherapy has helped heal thousands of people for centuries. Certain scents help in bringing our minds, bodies and souls back into balance. And essential oils of fruits, flowers, leaves and barks can be used by almost anyone to restore the harmony into our homes and lives. Essential oils can be used in aroma burners, diffusers or used along with base oils like olive oil, almond oil etc. Since the concentration is very intense just a few drops is required.
 
The basic and beneficial essential oils that are easily available and affordable.
 
Lavender: The scent of the purple Lavender flower has been hailed as the most natural calmer. It helps reduce anxiety, depression and replaces it with a sense of calm and peace. Burned in aroma burners in the evening after a busy day at work, lavender reduces the stress and allows you to relax better. A few drops on your pillow or bath water promotes better sleep.

Rose: The scent of love and compassion. Use it on days when you want to attract love into your life or when you want to feel better about yourself. Ideal as a healer of heartbreaks, a few drops on your pulse points or blended into a base like olive oil and massaged into your skin eases feelings of heartbreak and brings in greater love into your life.

Lemon: This is the pick-me-up of essential oils. Perfect for days when you may feel cloudy and lethargic. And a wonderful aid for students who could do with a little more focus in their studies. Burn it in your study room or put a few drops in your bathwater to aid concentration, clarity and boost your energy.

Sandalwood: This musky and heady scent has been used for thousands of years as a purifier of temples and homes. Sandalwood helps clear up tension or any negative vibes in the home. Great as a meditation aide, you may like to burn some Sandalwood essential oil in your room before you meditate.

Jasmine: Sweet smelling and soo feminine, jasmine essential oil is deeply relaxing and also helps relieves anger and anxiety. Excellent for the skin when blended in a base oil, jasmine is the perfect antidote to tension.

Healing Power of Tears

Crying has come naturally to us since the day we were born. When we were infants, we bawled when we were hungry, sleepy, tired, frustrated, dirty, you name it. As we grew a little older, our tears rolled when we felt ignored, scared, reprimanded by adults, or we fell down. The tears didn't last for too long, and within a few minutes we were back to our normal active, curious, childlike selves.

But what happened as we grew older? We learnt to repress our emotions. Not show our disappointment or pain so easily. We became big boys and big girls, and our parents and teachers reminded us again and again to stop crying over this or that and to be brave.

But fact of the matter is we all have to cry even as adults at some point or the other in our lives. Those who have a good cry periodically actually lead healthier lives.

How crying can heal you:

1.    Release tension and  the toxins of emotional stresses from the body. After a good bawl, don't we all feel a little lighter?
2.    Tears which flow with emotion actually contain higher amounts of protein and beta endorphin - natural pain relievers. Tears also kill bacteria, lubricate our eyes and help us see better.
3.    Those who cry more often than others report less physical illnesses than those who keep it inside. 
4.    Crying aids inner calm and peace. We can view the situation more clearly and calmly after a good session.

Being strong and brave is not about suppression of emotions. It's about clarity, willingness to face whatever life offers our way. And knowing the power of release. So the next time you feel the tears well up, go get the box of tissues and cry your heart out. You'll feel better in more ways than one.

Natural Ways to Glow your Skin

In your kitchen shelf, are many ingredients that can easily be used to add radiance to your skin. 

Tone your skin daily with rose water. It is helpful for all skin types. Toning stimulates blood circulation to the skin surface and adds a glow. For a skin toner, take rose water and mix it with witch hazel. For dry skin, mix 3 parts of rose water with one part of witch hazel. For oily and combination skin, mix rose water and witch hazel in equal quantities. Witch hazel will be available at your local pharmacy. If you cannot get witch hazel, use plain rose water, or buy a rose-based skin tonic. Keep the toner in a bowl in the fridge and soak cotton wool pads in it. First use them to wipe the skin. Then, stroke the skin with them. On the cheeks, use outward and upward movements, ending each stroke at the temples and applying gentle pressure. On the forehead, start from the centre and go outwards on each side, again ending at the temples. For the chin, use circular movements. Then, pat the skin briskly with the rosewater-soaked cotton wool pads.

Use a facial scrub twice a week. It can work wonders on the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and making the skin brighter. It also improves skin texture and produces an even colour tone. It is a powerful cleansing procedure too, leaving the skin renewed, refreshed and glowing. For a scrub, mix ground almonds (badaam) with yogurt. Dried and powdered lemon and orange peels can also be added. Dry and powdered mint (pudina) leaves also help to add a glow. Apply the mixture on the face and leave on for a few minutes. Then, rub gently, with small circular movements, washing off with water. A facial scrub can also be made with walnut powder. Add honey and lemon juice.

Mix honey and lemon juice in equal quantities and apply daily on the face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. It leaves the skin very soft and glowing. Egg white can also be added to this mixture.

Fruit packs are great for adding radiance to the skin. They can also be applied daily. Mix grated apples with ripe papaya pulp and mashed banana. Yogurt or lemon juice can be added to the mixture. Apply it on the face and leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with plain water. It not only adds a glow, but also removes tan and makes the skin soft.

Dried and powdered curry leaves (kari patta) can also be added to face packs, as it is said to add a glow to the skin. It can be mixed with Fullers Earth (multani mitti) and rose water into a paste. Apply on the face and wash it off when it is dry. Multani mitti also clarifies the skin and is particularly useful for oily skin.

The skin is called the mirror of the body and rightly so. No other organ reflects the state of internal health as faithfully as the skin. An unhealthy lifestyle, lack of sleep and exercise, stress, nutritional deficiencies all reflect on the skin, in terms of dull lifeless skin. Include a variety of natural foods, like fresh fruits, raw salads, sprouts, yogurt, fresh fruit juices, leafy green vegetables, "dalia", oats, green tea, in your diet. Fresh fruit juices should be diluted with water. Drink plenty of water. Foods like these remove toxins and cleanse the system, adding a glow to the skin. Indeed, internal health and external beauty are two sides of the same coin. 

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric is a staple ingredient in most Indian cuisines. It has many therapeutic effects

The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Tumeric has been used for over 2500 years in India, where it was most likely first used as a dye.

The medicinal properties of this spice have been slowly revealing themselves over the centuries. Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties, recent research has revealed that turmeric is a natural wonder, proving beneficial in the treatment of many different health conditions from cancer to Alzheimer's disease.

Here are 20 reasons to add turmeric to your diet:

1. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.

2. When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.

3. Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.

4. May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.

5. Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.

6. Is a natural liver detoxifier.

7. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.

8. May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.

9. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.

10. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.

11. Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.

12. May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.

13. Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.

14. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

15. Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.

16. Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.

17. Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.

18. Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

19. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.

20. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

If you have an uneven skin tone and would do anything to get that perfect peaches and cream complexion, then turmeric's what you need. Turmeric evens out the skin tone by reducing the traces of pigmentation. Mix a little turmeric powder along with cucumber juice or lemon juice and apply on skin. Wash it off after 15 minutes. But remember to do this everyday to notice a significant change in your skin colour. 

Turmeric makes for an awesome body scrub. This is why most Indian brides used to smear a paste of turmeric and besan on their bodies before their wedding to get skin that is super smooth, baby soft and glowing. Application of turmeric and a little milk cream also makes the skin supple and improves its elasticity.

About Dark Circles under your Eyes

Are you distressed and troubled with the dark blemishes under your eyes? 

Dark Circles are prevalent on all skin colours and types. They bring about a chronically fatigued look, or make you appear older than you actually are.

The causes range from fatigue, vitamin deficiency, hyper pigmentation, allergies, atopic dermatitis (eczema) to dilated blood vessels that sit close to the under-eye skin. Airborne allergens and some medications can also worsen the appearance.

Nasal congestion also dilates and darkens the veins that drain from eyes to nose. The commonly known eye bags or the puffiness under the eyes are a result of the combined effect of inflammation, chronic sun damage and the downward pull of gravity on under eye circles. These dark circles sometimes indicate circulatory problems, kidney and liver malfunction and deficiency of Vitaman K.

The treatment of dark circles depends on what is causing it.

A multimodal approach may be required, simple remedies like catching up on sufficient amount of sleep, taking vitamin and mineral supplements, quitting smoking and alcohol can be a good adjunct in reducing dark circles.

Saline rinsing of sinuses or over-the-counter saline spray can help relieve nasal congestion.

But home remedies are usually ineffective on genetic dark circles which often worsen if left untreated as they are not powerful enough to alter skin's chemistry. Specifically designed OTC under eye creams containing Vitamin E, Vitamin C or Chamomile are available but persistent dark circles require medical treatment with dermatologists.

Prescription strength medications or chemical peels are among the non-invasive treatments. Chemical peels are effective in rejuvenating skin around the eyes by exfoliating damaged upper layers of skin to reveal new, healthier skin. The latest, effective and soothing peel for dark circles is argi peel which contains Arginine, lactic acid, allantoin and aloevera. Arginine is an amino acid derived from brown sugar which boosts collagen, increases elasticity, and moisturises skin. Lactic acid is a mild AHA, which exfoliates and lightens skin, allantoin and aloevera help in skin soothing and regeneration. This is used in conjunction with Vitaman C with Matrixyl® that provides firmness, resistance and elasticity to the fragile skin of the contour eye area.

Laser resurfacing and intense pulse light treatments are good options because they can reduce or eliminate the appearance of prominent veins and capillaries.

Patients with more severe cases of puffiness and loose upper or lower eyelids may want to seek out surgical alternatives including Blepheroplasty at this clinic. The facial fat loss experienced with aging can be treated by injectable fillers or fat grafting.

Using a daily moisturiser with sunscreen, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of iron and Vitamin K, and getting enough sleep will help in preventing raccoon look and help you to shine through.

So smile as the skin experts and dermatologists at the clinic will guide you with a successful treatment, determined after a thorough assessment of the causes of dark circles and also steer the way with preventive regimes. 

Health Benefits with Tomatoes

The health benefits of Tomatoes are:


Anti-oxidant: Tomatoes contain a lot of vitamins A and C, mostly because of beta-carotene, and these vitamins act as an anti-oxidant, working to neutralize dangerous free radicals in the blood stream. Free radicals in the body can be flushed out with high levels of Lycopene, and the tomato is so amply loaded with this vital anti-oxidant that it actually derives its rich redness from the nutrient. These dangerous free radicals can cause cell damage. Also, remember that cooking destroys much of vitamin C, so stick to raw tomatoes for these benefits.

Vision: Because of all that vitamin A, tomatoes are also an excellent food to help improve your vision. This also means tomatoes can help your eyes be better about night blindness.

Cancer: Because of all that lycopene in tomatoes, the red fruit helps to lessen the chances of prostate cancer in men, and also reduces the chance of stomach cancer and colo-rectal cancer. Lycopene is considered somewhat of a natural miracle anti-oxidant that may help to stop the growth of cancer cells. And, interestingly enough, cooked tomatoes produce more lycopene than do raw tomatoes, so enjoy that tomato soup!

Heart troubles: Due to potassium and vitamin B, tomatoes help to lower blood pressure and to lower high cholesterol levels. This, in turn, could help prevent strokes, heart attack and other potentially life-threatening heart problems.

Skin care: Because of high amounts of lycopene, tomatoes are excellent for skin care. Make sure the inside of the tomato skins are against your skin, and let this be there for at least 10 minutes. Then wash off. You face will be cleaner and give a shiny look.

Hair: Remember all that vitamin A in tomatoes? Well, it's good for keeping your hair strong and shiny, and its also good for your eyes, teeth, skin and bones.

Bones: Tomatoes have a fair amount of vitamin K and calcium, both of which help to strengthen bones. 

Salt and your Heart Health

Salt is an important ingredient in our diet as it plays a vital role in water retention, muscle contraction, and contains nutrients that are vital to the digestive system. 

Too little sodium in the body can result in dehydration because the cells are unable to retain water. On the other hand, too much sodium in one's diet from salty foods may increase the risk of high blood pressure. How much salt is too much for your body?

According to American guidelines, the human body only requires about half a gram of sodium per day to regulate the fluid balance of cells and plasma. Salt is generally nontoxic to adults, provided it is excreted properly. The maximum amount of sodium that should be incorporated into a healthy diet should range from 2,400-3,000 mg/day.

However, the average man consumes at least nine grams of sodium per day, with many eating more than 12 grams on a daily basis. Therefore, most of us need to reduce our salt intake.

Impact of Salt intake on Heart Health 
Too much sodium intake can lead to water retention in the blood increasing blood pressure too. Normally, the kidney flushes this excess water from the body. However, sometimes, kidneys are unable to function properly and find it difficult to expel the excess fluid sufficiently out of the body, thereby leading to fluid retention. This increases the volume of blood being pumped through the blood vessels and can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension).

In an effort to pump the extra fluid through the body, the heart may also become dilated or enlarged. Moreover, with this condition the cells in the heart don't work as well as they should because they are not receiving enough oxygen and nutrients. Over time, the damage caused by extra blood pressure may become so severe that the arteries burst or become completely clogged. If this happens, then the part of the heart that was receiving the blood no longer gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs, and dies. The result is a heart attack.

Thus, overweight people who eat too much salt are at a greater risk of heart disease or stroke and people with high blood pressure are at a greater risk of damaging their kidneys.

Strategies for reducing salt intake 
Salt when added during cooking, used as a seasoning in restaurants, or taken in processed foods; increases the sensitivity of people towards heart ailments. Since the body only requires about 500 milligrams per day, naturally occurring sodium in fruits and vegetables may be enough to sustain good body function.

Therefore, for reducing one's sodium intake by reducing one's use of salt:

- Avoid prepared foods as much as possible or read food labels and look for reduced - sodium varieties of your favorite foods.

- Take the salt shaker off the table.

- Use seasonings and spices other than salt. Alternative flavors and spices such as lemon juice, vinegar, peppers, onion, and fresh herbs to season food are of great help.

- Replace canned, frozen and other processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables.

- Limit consumption of salty snacks like peanuts and potato chips.

- Use unsalted butter rather than regular butter.

- Select low-fat, low-sodium cheese and yogurt.

- Eat bananas and other potassium-rich foods. These foods help balance sodium levels.

Benefits of Oats

Everybody needs to be health conscious today, because most of us face health risks due to various reasons like bad food habits, lack of exercise, stress, obesity, drinking alcohol , smoking, etc. 

Being healthy begins by eating healthy. Most of us begin our day by having breakfast that is high in fat and calories, for eg. butter jam toast, cheese sandwiches, omelettes, sheera, vadas, dosas, etc. which is bad for the heart. You need to begin your day with a non-oily nutritious breakfast, for example, having oats. It's quick and easy to prepare, so you can't complain about not having the time to prepare breakfast. Some of the benefits of oats are: 

- Oats contain soluble fibre called beta glucan, which is known to help in reducing cholesterol by the blocking of re-absorption of cholesterol when it passes through the digestive system. Regularly having oats lowers the cholesterol levels in the body.

- Oats contains low levels of sodium. This reduces the risk of contracting high blood pressure and hypertension.

- The soluble fibre present in oats tends to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, thereby reducing the spikes in the blood sugar levels, which in turn do not lead to unwanted urges to eat.

- Eating oats leaves one much fuller, therefore you tend to eat less. This is especially good for those trying to lose weight.

- Oats contains very less amount of fat and lesser calories. This makes it good for overall health.

- Being a good source of natural dietary fibre, oats are beneficial in curbing the problem of constipation.

- Oats are also known to contain compounds called phytochemicals that can reduce one's risk of cancer.

About Hepatitis A and E

A few diseases can wreak havoc in adult life, and Hepatitis E is one of them. It is the leading cause of acute (short-lived) viral in the world.Most commonly found in people of 15-40 years of age, Hepatitis E is even more infectious than Hepatitis A.

Understanding Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is the most innocuous of all the Acute Viral Hepatitis (most common cause of Jaundice). It is caused by Hepatitis A virus and leads to live inflamation. It is generally caught from infected food and water (feco oral route ), so the best way to prevent it is to use fresh cooked food and drink clean water.

Symptoms of Hepatitis A:
1.Appetite loss
2.Nausea, vomiting, fever
3.Pain in liver, especially on the right side of the abdomen just under the rib cage
4.Tiredness
5.Jaundice (a yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes
6.Urine is dark brownish in colour, like strong tea.

Treatment of Hepatitis A: Wait for symptoms to relieve. However, if your sickness doesn’t get better, the vaccine for Hepatitis A is available. The vaccine can be taken by anyone who is above the age of 1 yrs. The second dose is given after six month of the first dose.

Understanding Hepatitis E: The Hepatitis E virus is also transmitted through the faecal-oral route. Hepatitis E is a more serious problem compared to Hepatitis A in terms of clinical course, complications and outcome. This disease can turn dangerous in pregnant women, hence nutritional hygiene is important.

Symptoms of Hepatitis E:
1.Appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, fever
2.Upper abdominal pain
3.Pain in liver, especially on the right side of the abdomen just under the rib cage
4.Tiredness
5.Jaundice (a yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes
5.Urine is dark brownish in colour, like strong tea.

Treatment for Hepatitis E: There are no specific medicines that can cure Hepatitis E. Therefore, treatment of hepatitis E is focused on supportive care i.e. when your symptoms get cured. Must- do things in order to keep away from hepatitis E is take plenty of fluids, rest, avoid alcohol and make sure you exercise regularly.

10 Steps to Glowing your Skin

Tips to get closer to radiant glowing skin:

The acne, dark circles, tanned skin, pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, freckles and more... 


1. Diet : What you eat decides how you look. This statement shows the importance of good healthy food in our diet. Antioxidants are present in berries, blueberries, cranberries and in aloe vera that can help fight bacteria and keep your skin vibrant. Vitamin E is another important nutrient that helps to keep our skin supple and wrinkle-free. Avoiding caffeine is a great idea because it hastens skin darkening and ageing. Opt for green tea instead.

2. Sunscreen : This is a must for all skin types, advise skin specialists. Using a sunscreen with a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 25 should be applied at least twenty minutes prior to going out. And it is a must even when you are indoors all day, because your computer screen and your cooking flame emits UV rays that damage skin. A good sunscreen can counter this effect.

3. Good skin care routine : A regular and good skin care routine is the basic essential when you are aiming for healthy radiant skin. Removing makeup is important. Never mistake a cleanser for a make-up remover. You should begin by removing eye make-up, then go to the cheek and lips. Daily toning and moisturising is also important.

4. Detoxification : This removes the toxins and other waste from the body that make our skin look dull and lifeless. Drinking at least 2.5 litres of water helps flush out toxins.

5. Deworming : No matter what your age is, it is important to deworm for good health.

6. Avoid getting tanned : The sun not only makes your skin pigmented, it also causes early aging and premature wrinkles. Regular clean-ups and facials can help your skin look healthy and glowing.

7. Men too : Not just women, skin care is just as important for men. Use a skin soothener like aloe vera gel or a calamine lotion in case of a shaving rash.

8. Take care of dry, dark and scaly hands and feet : Hands and feet are the first to show signs of neglect. Begin by exfoliating and scrubbing your hands and then apply moisturiser meant for your hands and feet. Before going off to sleep, apply a creamy and nourishing cream and then, wear socks. A good manicure and pedicure at least once every month is essential.

9. Hair and nail care : Caring for your hair and nails are important too. Dry frizzy, unhealthy hair and nails maybe a sign that you have some sort of malnutrition or deficiency. Consult a doctor. A healthy diet, at least once a month manicure and pedicure is essential for well-groomed nails.

10. Consult the experts : When none of the above work, it's time to see a specialist. 

Fruity Delight for your Skin

Fruits are the best medicine is a well known fact. A cup of fruit juice a day is sure to guarantee a clear complexion.


A massage with a fruit pulp or a fruit facial? Fruit facials have been there for at least a decade now. But with people getting more wary of effect of chemicals on the skin, majority of them are now resorting to using something from their own kitchen. What better way to pamper your skin than with pure stuff which is free of toxins and not in the least harmful to your skin? Besides the fact that they hydrate and rejuvenate your skin, the very smell of a fruit on your face is quite de-stressing. Unlike the chemical beauty treatments, fruits are cost-effective, natural and also bring a visible difference. A few fruits and their properties, choose what suits you best!


Banana: This is one fruit that's abundantly available in India all through the year. We know it's a good source of iron, magnesium and potassium and helps reduce menstrual cramps. The effect of banana on skin too is not something that can be ignored. Banana is rich in vitamin A, B and E and hence works as an anti-aging agent. A fresh mashed banana facial can do wonders to your skin.


Lemon: Lemon juice is an important ingredient in most Indian recipes. This is also a fruit of all seasons and almost always finds place on your kitchen shelf or refrigerator. With its vitamin C content, its juice will keep your skin beautiful. A glass of warm water with a tsp of honey and a dash of lemon juice on an empty stomach every morning is a great skin cleanser. With its astringent properties, it can be used to lighten the skin tone and also diminish acne scars. Rub the inside of a lemon peel on your elbow remove dark spots. Mix lemon and honey and use it as a natural bleach on your skin.


Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away is cliched, but its health benefits are undisputable. Apple's antioxidant property prevents cell and tissue damage. Studies by nutritionists have shown that apples contain abundant amounts of elastin and collagen that help keep the skin young. Applying a mixture of mashed apple, honey, rose water and oatmeal can act as a great exfoliating mask on your skin.


Orange: Rich in vitamin C that improves skin texture. Like apple, orange too contains collagen that slows skin aging process. Rub the insides of orange on your skin to tighten the skin. Oranges can be dried and powdered and used as a natural scrub. Like lemon, oranges too help clear skin blemishes.


Papaya: The benefits of this fruit on skin have perhaps been talked about since the time of our ancestors. Papaya is rich in anti-oxidants and contain a special enzyme called papain that can kill dead cells and cure skin impurities. A glass of papaya milk or just applying the flesh of papaya on your skin can do wonders to your skin.


Mangoes: Rightly called the king of fruits for not just its taste but also for health benefits. The soft pulpy fruit has an amazing effect on skin too. Rich in vitamin-A and antioxidants, it fights skin aging, regenerates skin cells and restores the elasticity of skin.

Oral Hygiene

Eyes are the windows to your soul and the mouth is the window to your body's well being. Observing and maintaining necessary oral hygiene not only keeps oral infections, diseases and cavities at bay. It also has quite an impact on artery and heart disease. In order to make sure that you have a healthy set of pearly whites.

Tip 1: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 3-5 minutes. Make sure you do not put too much pressure as this can hurt your gums.

Tip 2: Place the bristles along the gum line at a 45-degree angle. Gently brush the outer tooth surfaces of 2-3 teeth using a vibrating back and forth motion. Clean outer, inner and biting surfaces of teeth with scrubbing motion.

Tip 3: Essential oil based mouthwash reduces plaque by 70% and gum problems by 36% over brushing alone. Use an anti-microbial mouthwash to get complete protection from germs..

Tip 4: Recommended dosage for mouthwash is 20ml undiluted for 30 seconds morning and night. Make sure you keep the mouthwash at a visible spot in the bathroom so you remember to use it every day

Tip 5: Floss your teeth. Ease the floss gently between your teeth, pull the floss smoothly back and front. Additionally, using a dental floss will help remove food debris that’s stuck in your teeth.

Tip 6: Clean and brush the surface of your tongue daily because there is bacteria present particularly on the rougher top surface of the tongue. These can contribute to bad breath (halitosis) and negatively affect your dental health.

Tip 7: Quit smoking and chewing tobacco since this can cause tooth decay, bad breath, tooth discoloration and even oral cancer. If you smoke a cigarette, you may use candies, tea or coffee to mask the smoky breath and odor. This doubles the amount of damage caused. 

Tip 8: Avoid sticky, sugary and starchy foods as this can lead to tooth decay, instead consume foods rich in fiber, calcium and vitamin C. 

Tip 9: Too much consumption of tea, coffee and red wine should be avoided since this can stain your teeth. 

Tip 10: Go for dental check-ups every 6 months since this will help diagnose any problems that might otherwise go undetected.

Exercises to Enhance Memory

Memory is a tricky thing, It has a way of bailing on us when we need it the most. And as we get older, it only gets worse! But did you know that exercise could change that? Some yoga asanas that will help stimulate your brain and nervous system and in turn improve your memory.

Meditation

Meditation improves your concentration and helps you remember things better. Sit quietly in a comfortable position and count backwards from 50. You can start counting from 100 and even 200 with practice.

Another form of meditation is Dharana. Dharana helps you de-clutter your mind. This form of meditation involves focusing your attention and not letting it wander. It can be done by either concentrating on your breathing or by concentrating on the centre of your head.

Pranayam also helps you think better and improves your ability to remember better as it increases the supply of oxygen to your brain. Pranaym is a kind of breathing technique practised in yoga.

You could also try yogamudra or padmasana for better memory. For this, place your hands on your knees with your palms facing upwards and join your index finger to your thumb. Just close your eyes and focus on your breathing.

Upavitha Konasana (wide legged forward bend)

1) Stand with your feet three feet apart and your heels pointing outwards.

2) Now bend forward with a straight back to touch your palm to the ground. If it is your first time, go as far as you can and hold the position.

3) Now get your torso closer to yourself with your palms on your knees and your elbows jutting out. Hold for about five to 10 seconds and slowly return to your original position.

Sirshasana
To get to sirshasana, you need to assume balasana or the child’s pose. 

Balasana

1) Sit in vajrasana or on your feet with your knees pointing forward.
2) Part your legs slightly and bend your torso forward with your hands outstretched or on your sides, to touch the ground. This is balasana.
3) Now hold your elbows with your hands. Place the top of your head on the ground with the back of your head resting against your arms.
4) Slowly straighten your knees, raise your hips and your legs to form a ‘V’ in the air.
5) Now slowly bend your knees close to your chest so that your feet are near your buttocks and balance yourself using your hips.
6) Now raise your legs. When you are in the headstand position, try and relax.

Sirshasana

Make sure 90 per cent of your weight is supported by your arms and elbows and just 10 per cent by your head.


Viparit Karni Asana

This is a variation of the sarvangasana. In this asana, instead of raising your legs to form a 90-degree angle, you make a 60-degree angle with or without the support of a wall.

1) Lie down on your back.
2) Slowly raise your legs and your hips off the ground to form a 60-degree angle with the ground. Support your hips with your hands as you do this.
3) Hold for up to ten seconds and return to original position.

Benefits of Grapes

Grapes are instant source of energy and keeps you looking younger. 

Some of the health benefits of this fruit are:
Found in clusters, this fruit is not just a rich source of vitamins A, C, B6 and folate but also has essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and selenium. 


Grapes contains flavanoids - powerful antioxidants that can help slacken the ageing process - that reduce the damage caused by free radicals. 


Grapes have high nutritive value, this fruit can be used treat constipation, indigestion, fatigue, kidney disorders, muscle degeneration and can prevent cataract. Grapes are a good blood and body builder, and a quick source of energy. 


Dried grapes or raisins are nutritious and help in many disorders including constipation, acidosis, anaemia, fever, sexual weakness and help in gaining weight and eye care. 
 
Grapes are crimson, black, dark blue, yellow, green, orange, and pink. 

White grapes are actually green in colour and are evolutionarily derived from the purple grape. 

Combat these diseases 
Asthma: Grapes have high assimilatory power and can increase the moisture present in lungs. 

Antibacterial activity: Red grapes have strong antibacterial and antiviral properties and can protect you from infections. 

Alzheimer's disease: There have been studies that suggest that grapes can enhance brain health and stall the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Resveratrol, a beneficial polyphenol present in grapes reduces the levels of amyloidal-beta peptides in patients with Alzheimer's disease. 

Breast cancer: Studies on laboratory rats have shown that juice of purple coloured juice helps in preventing breast cancer by significantly reducing mammary tumour mass. 

Constipation: Grapes contain organic acid, sugar and cellulose and are considered to be laxative food. They relieve chronic constipation by toning up the intestine and stomach. 

Fatigue: Grape juice provides instant energy. Juice of white grapes is rich in iron and pevents fatigue.

Heart diseases: The nitric oxide levels in the blood increase when you eat grapes, and that prevent clots and reduces the chances of heart attacks. Antioxidants in them stop oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which blocks the blood vessels. 

Indigestion: Grapes are preferred when one suffers from indigestion, as they constitute a light food. This fruit relieves heat and cures indigestion and irritation of the stomach. 

Migraine: Ripe grape juice when taken early in the morning, without mixing additional water helps in curing migraine. 

Kidney disorders: Grapes can help in the elimination of the acid from the system, thereby reducing the work pressure of kidneys.