Jul 28

Why your mind deserves daily self-care

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This International Self-Care Day, mental health experts share a comprehensive guide to help you cultivate a self-care routine that nourishes your body and mind   While the conversation around mental health has broadened over the years, self-care as a concept has been marketed in ways that lead you to think of it as spa treatments and luxurious indulgences. Understandably, it can be pleasurable to go on a holiday, but true self-care can be practiced daily, is critical for your mental health and far more accessible. Every year, International Self-Care Day is observed on July 24 to highlight the role of self-care in life. While every person knows of the concept, people do need a reminder often, so mental health experts delve into how self-care is different from pampering yourself. They also highlight the benefits of digital detox and emotional check ins, and share practical strategies to help you include self-care in your everyday lives   The essentials of self-care: Beyond pampering Dr Aparna Ramakrishnan, consultant, psychiatry, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, defines self-care, “Intentionally and consciously taking action to maintain or improve your physical, mental and emotional health. It is taking care of yourself so that you have enough […]
Jul 27

10 simple exercises to build muscle, as you age (no gym required)

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Building muscle can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not a “gym bro” or don’t have time to spend hours lifting iron while sipping protein shakes the size of your head. But here’s the good news — you don’t need a fancy gym membership, expensive equipment, or even a six-day-a-week workout routine to start building muscle. What do you need? Consistency, smart moves, and a bit of sweat equity. Below are simple exercises that actually work — whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your strength without burning out.   Push-ups: Upper-body builder You don’t need a bench press to get a strong chest and arms — just your bodyweight and a floor. What it works: Chest, triceps, shoulders, and core. Why it’s great: Push-ups are a classic for a reason. They’re easy to modify (drop to your knees or incline with a wall if you’re a beginner), and you can do them anywhere — bedroom, hotel, office bathroom (hey, we won’t judge). Quick tip: Keep your body in a straight line — no sagging hips or mountain peaks. Quality over speed.   Squats: your legs will hate you, but thank you later You might not love squats […]
Jul 26

Blood pressure trouble? 6 ways morning runs naturally lower your blood pressure

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1. Improves heart efficiency Morning running strengthens the heart by enhancing its ability to pump blood efficiently. A stronger heart exerts less force on arteries, reducing overall blood pressure levels over time. Regular runs promote improved cardiac output and circulation, ensuring oxygen-rich blood flows smoothly to all organs. Studies show that moderate-intensity aerobic activity like jogging reduces resting blood pressure significantly, especially in hypertensive individuals. By consistently challenging the heart through controlled exercise, runners experience decreased arterial stiffness, making blood flow easier and pressure naturally lower.   2. Promotes weight management Excess body weight is a major contributor to hypertension. Morning running helps burn calories, boosts metabolism, and reduces fat levels, which collectively ease strain on the heart and arteries. Consistent weight management leads to lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Running also increases lean muscle mass, improving insulin sensitivity and energy usage, which indirectly benefits cardiovascular health. By helping maintain a healthy body composition, morning runs prevent obesity-related hypertension, allowing blood vessels to remain flexible and healthy, decreasing long-term risks of heart disease.   3. Reduces stress hormones Cortisol and adrenaline, stress hormones, are linked to elevated blood pressure. Morning runs reduce these hormones by triggering endorphin release, the […]
Jul 25

3 effective science-backed ways to keep the brain healthy

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Brain health is paramount, and experts suggest simple, cost-free methods to boost its function. A study in Brain Sciences highlights three key factors: physical exercise, social interaction, and cultivating strong interests. Movement combats brain aging, while relationships stimulate complex biological processes. Passion drives learning, impacting neural network development. The brain is undoubtedly the most important organ in the human body. It’s in charge of some of the vital functions in the body, and hence keeping it in top shape is important. But how do you boost your brain function? No, you don’t really have to take endless supplements or expensive treatments. The trick is simple and free of cost! Here are 3 effective ways to boost brain health, according to experts. Before we dive into the tips, let’s take a look at the miraculous power of the brain.   Your brain is fabulous Ever imagined how powerful your brain is? You are reading this article, and along with visualisation, your brain is breaking down this information and storing it. Lift your hands. Your brain just did it! How fabulous is it? There are around 100 billion nerve cells that work in coordination to keep you nimble and quick in your […]
Jul 24

Fitness at 40: 7 doctor-approved workout rules you must follow to stay fit

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Turning 40 doesn’t mean slowing down, it means training smarter. Experts reveal gender-specific fitness rules to boost strength, prevent injuries, and stay healthy in your 40s and beyond. By the time you hit your 40s, your body starts changing in different ways. Your metabolism slows down, recovery takes longer, and building muscle isn’t as easy as it used to be. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down, it means it’s time to get smarter about your workouts. Doctors and fitness experts agree that the key to staying fit in your 40s is to personalise your workouts as per your changing body. And yes, there are some specific considerations based on gender too.   Fitness rules for everyone in their 40s Whether you’re male or female, there are some universal rules that apply to exercising in your 40s:   1. Hydration comes first After 40, the body’s thirst signals are not as sharp. Many people are mildly dehydrated without realizing it. This affects energy, joint lubrication, and even mental clarity. Aim for 2.5 to 3 litres of water a day, especially if you’re physically active.   2. Sleep is your secret weapon Quality sleep is crucial. It helps in […]
Jul 23

Everyday acts of self-care

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International Self-Care Day on July 24 is a gentle reminder to pause, nourish yourself, and embrace small everyday healing rituals When we hear the words ‘self-care’, many of us picture bath bombs, jade rollers, or maybe even a weekend yoga retreat nestled in the hills. But self-care is often quieter than that, not always picturesque, not always Instagrammed. At its heart, it’s deeply personal. And as International Self-Care Day approaches on July 24, experts are nudging us to go beyond the surface and start turning inward. “Self-care is not a luxury. It’s a necessity,” says Dr Partap Chauhan, founder and director of Jiva Ayurveda, a world-renowned Ayurvedaacharya and author. “When you think of self-care, the first thing that probably comes to mind is rest or skincare. But from an Ayurvedic lens, nourishment sits right at the centre,” he notes. According to him, what we eat isn’t just feeding our stomachs; it’s shaping our minds, emotions and immunity. “Food is not just fuel… it’s medicine. The nutrients you consume today are quietly building your health tomorrow. Ayurveda teaches that good nutrition supports ojas, your body’s vital energy. And nurturing ojas is the foundation of self-care. Not just today, but every single […]
Jul 22

Gym not your thing? These beginner exercises can still get the job done

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It just takes one walk, a jog, or a swim lap to begin your weight-loss journey. Yet, for many of us, taking that first step can feel surprisingly hard. If you’re in that boat, don’t worry, we have got you covered. When it comes to weight loss, there are numerous tips and tricks doing the rounds. Every person has their own definition and version of a weight loss transformation which either they have undergone or might know someone who did it. But let’s be honest, starting a weight-loss journey is easier said than done. Every transformation starts with one move. Whether your aim is to feel lighter, move better, or just take charge of your health, understanding where to start is essential. For weight loss, it is not always necessary that you have to start by lifting heavy weights. There are exercises that are simple, effective, and designed for anyone who’s just getting started. Consider it a soft launch into the world of fitness.   Weight loss exercises for beginners High-intensity exercises are no shortcuts to losing weight. If you are a beginner, commencing with these simple physical routines is just fine too.   Brisk Walking: Walking is considered one […]
Jul 21

5 coffee drinking habits that could be silently harming your health, experts say

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Many people unknowingly develop coffee habits that diminish its potential health benefits. Health experts suggest avoiding late-day caffeine to improve sleep quality. Unfiltered coffee may increase bad cholesterol, so filtered brewing methods are recommended. Excess sugar undermines coffee’s benefits, and it should complement, not replace, balanced meals. Smarter coffee habits can improve well-being. Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up; it’s a globally celebrated beverage known for its energising effects and potential health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and naturally occurring compounds, coffee has been associated with improved cognitive function, better metabolic health, and reduced risk of certain chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s. However, many people unknowingly develop habits that diminish these benefits. According to health.com, from drinking coffee too late in the day to using it as a meal replacement or overloading it with sugar, these mistakes can interfere with sleep, hydration, gut health, and overall wellness. Health experts weigh in on the most common coffee-drinking mistakes and how to correct them for optimal results and sustained energy.   5 daily coffee drinking habits that could be harming you Drinking coffee too late can disrupt sleep quality Caffeine, the primary stimulant in coffee, can linger in […]
Jul 20

9 Posture Exercises to Try If You Sit at a Desk All Day

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Do you spend your days working at a desk? Stretch and strengthen particular muscles with this posture workout to beat the slump. Stop right there — without moving, do a posture check. Back rounded? Chin sticking out? Dowager’s hump? While these slumped positions may feel more comfortable in the moment, poor posture doesn’t just look “blah.” Over time, slouching can cause major stress and injury to your body, too. “Poor posture can cause certain muscles to weaken while causing others to become overused leading to muscle imbalances,” explains Franco Calabrese, P.T., D.P.T., clinical director at React Physical Therapy. “This will create force inequities between larger and smaller muscles. This can cause functional movement to be limited and often strenuous, which can increase the probability of an injury.” These risks are especially prevalent if you’re prone to poor posture while working at a desk for the majority of the day. Other common causes of poor posture include sitting or standing for too long, a lack of physical activity, previous muscle or joint injury, and muscle imbalances or weaknesses, adds Calabrese. “How you move outside of your workout affects how you feel just as much — if not more so — as […]
Jul 19

Therapist says these 5 everyday habits could secretly damage your mental health: ‘It destroys your attention span’

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Therapist Jeffrey Meltzer shares 5 everyday habits like overstimulation and isolation that could be silently damaging your mental health and focus.   Feeling mentally exhausted even when life seems fine? Struggling with low motivation or emotional burnout without knowing why? Sometimes, it’s not major life events but simple everyday habits that silently impact your mental health. Jeffrey Meltzer, licensed therapist, shared in his July 14 Instagram post 5 common behaviours that could be hurting your mental health more than you realise. “Some habits can slowly wear down your mental health. It helps to notice them early and lean into behaviours that protect your mind,” Jeffrey wrote in the caption.   1. Overstimulation “When your day is filled with quick dopamine hits, endless scrolling, constant gaming, short-form content, it destroys your attention span and makes it harder to feel motivated or focused. Instead, try doing something that takes real effort. It might feel difficult at first, but it leaves you feeling stronger, prouder, and more in control,” says Jeffrey.   2. Social isolation Jeffrey explains that while it might feel safer to withdraw, humans are wired for connection. “The more you isolate, the harder it becomes to reconnect. Even one genuine […]
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