Solitude

Giving healthy food to their children is a constant concern for parents no matter what social status they belong to. But not all parents are aware of what constitutes healthy nutritious food. The Human Development Report (2009) prepared by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported high rates of malnutrition among children in slums, and the urban elite. Malnutrition among slum children is not a surprise as they do not have access to nutritious food. This report highlighted the co-emergence of malnutrition and overnutrition where rich urban children eat excessive calorie rich but nutrient empty food (devoid of minerals and vitamins). Intake of palatably tasty but nutritiously poor fast foods, aerated drinks, foods high in trans fat, saturated fats and sugar (such as pizzas, burgers, sodas and colas, cakes and pastries, samosa, French fries) do not provide the necessary minerals and vitamins required for daily intake although they may provide the necessary calories. Obe...

Meditation has been established as a powerful tool for ushering in peace of mind and putting an end to stress and related maladies like tension headaches, premature ageing and chronic fatigue syndrome If there is one thing that can travel faster than the speed of light, it is the human mind. From dawn to dusk, a jumble of chaotic thoughts crowd our subconscious, demanding our time and attention. This can affect the health and peace of mind. Promoting healing In simplistic terms, meditation is a kind of conscious relaxation—an inner journey towards calmness and tranquillity. According to information released by the Meditation Society of America, regular sessions can improve one’s I.Q., foster creativity and imagination; reduce blood pressure while promoting clear thinking and healing emotional scars and balance. Meditation does not have to have spiritual or religious implications, nor even any rigid rules. Though there are different techniques, the American  Journal of Health Prom...

“Am I fit?” How many times would you have asked yourself this question? Self-evaluation on fitness is tough because you never know what you are supposed to be looking for! Even a “slim” woman could be unhealthy. Conversely, a “stout” man could be really fit. So what are the criteria? Let's reflect just a little bit on fitness and what it means. Stand in front of a full-length mirror and take a good, hard look at yourself. Do you see a slouching body that needs to stand tall? Pinch your midriff. Are your fingers picking up a roll of fat? Smile. Does your face glow; do you feel energetic; are you in shape? Remember, your mirror tells you a lot. Often, it is more accurate than the opinions of people around, so pay attention! These questions tell you where you are right now. But, as you are aware, your fitness status could keep changing. There could be phases in your life where exercise is minimal such as during the monsoon season, or when you are on a vacation. You have to make a co...

In this fitness-obsessed world; where gym is home, treadmill your pal and the staircase your daily mission, your exercise regime tops the priority list. But, really, how long can you keep doing the same old routine season after season; even the dedicated ones will need a change. Once the raindrops start and the overcast sky opens up, motivation slowly and steadily moves to zilch. Our metabolic rate also takes a lazy turn but your body needs serious movement now. Also since the cold has been proved to aid weight-loss; do just that, only with a twist. Nothing shakes up that stubborn cellulite like a change in routine. With the fitness world offering a variety of vigorous, yet fun, fitness fundas, ditch the regulars and introduce some zing while you continue with those workouts. Kayaking Don't we all love those row-boat rides in our misty hill stations? Even all those weights with multiple sets and counts aren't as effective as a session of swift kayaking. Basically a lean, row ...

1. It’s okay to make mistakes. Mistakes and failures are there to teach us. If we learn from them and correct the way on our path, better things will result from it. 2. We create our own reality. We have the power to break mental patterns that no longer serve us, and we have the power to consciously choose thoughts that empower us. It’s only a matter of breaking old habits and creating new ones. 3. Finding validation and seeking love from another person through relationships is a self-destructive path. Those types of relationships never last, and when they end, they burn in heartache. You must love and respect yourself first. When you wholeheartedly love who you are, the world will fall in love with you, and the right relationship will fall into place. Until I fully accept, love and respect myself, I will continue to attract those relationships rooted in fear, insecurities and disempowerment. 4. A few moments of silence each day will broaden your horizon, strengthen your self-a...