Health Tips from Astrologer Vighnesh

Ashwagandha-Helpful to cure Depression, Thyroid, Heart Diseases.

2015-03-24T11:09:00.003+05:30

Ashwagandha is an interesting herb that YOU should be aware of!

I was first introduced to it a few months ago while researching natural supplements for anxiety and stress. All the claims and health benefits associated with this herb used in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine intrigued me so much, that I decided to purchase a few bottles to test it out myself. The results were miraculous as soon as I discovered what these reputed websites were raving about.

I regularly meditate because of my high anxiety personality and what I noticed after taking this essential supplement was that I was able to settle into a meditative state quite effortlessly. I also noticed how much more relaxed I was during my usual stressful work week. I was sold!

Being the resourceful person I am, I dug in a little deeper to understand this herb and the other health benefits this centuries old remedy claimed to provide.

What I Found Out Blew My Mind!

Ashwagandha is a nutritious evergreen shrub grown in the Middle East and India. It is often referred to as the “Indian ginseng” and is classified as an “adaptogen.” These types of adaptogenic herbs are known to be extremely effective in bringing balance to your hormones and normalizing the physiological functions in your body.

For those out there who hate swallowing pills, there are other ways of ingesting it other than taking it in capsule form. I have found that you can also chew on the root or brew it in a fresh hot tea and it also comes in a liquid extract.

Ashwagandha

Here are the top ten health benefits of Ashwagandha and why YOU should consider adding it to your health routine.

1. Reduces Anxiety and Depression

About 350 million adults suffer from depression globally and an estimated 40 million in the United States suffer from anxiety. Ashwagandha has shown to be extremely effective in treating both anxiety and depression without any of the known side effects that come with taking prescription drugs. It is known to lower the levels of cortisol in your body and, in return, helps you to relax. In high doses, it can actually be used as a mild sedative to help treat insomnia as well.

2. Adrenal Fatigue

Your adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system. They are responsible for releasing the hormones cortisol and adrenaline in your body. Too often, we are dealt numberless amounts of highly stressful situations throughout the week, whether it be from our jobs, family issues or paying off debt. These all fatigue our adrenal glands and over time, can create health issues associated with stress. Ashwagandhahelps support your adrenal glands and restore balance to your levels of cortisol and adrenaline.

3. Improves Thyroid Function

Ashwagandha has been shown in studies to help re-balance the thyroid. This is again due to its “adaptogenic” properties. It can help with stress, the loss of energy and other common symptoms that are related to thyroid issues.

4. Cancer Prevention

Studies have been very promising in ashwagandha’s ability to prevent and treat cancer. It stunts the growth of cancerous cells and also supports the growth of white blood cells that are lost during chemotherapy. More studies are being conducted to find out more. Keep an eye out for this… interesting stuff!

5. Increases Stamina and Endurance

This herb can increase endurance and stamina during physical activity. If you’re an athlete or just love working out regularly like I do, then this is the perfect supplement for you! It sharpens your mind and improves concentration during your workout, almost like caffeine does, but without the side effects. A couple of other benefits include the reduction of lactic acid and faster recovery time in your muscles from extensive exercising.

6. Helps Treat Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

Test results for the treatment of Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease have been very promising! They have shown that Ashwagandha improves memory loss and that it helps rebuild lost connections in the brain from these degenerative diseases. The National Brain Research Center has done studies on mice with alzheimer’s and revealed that mice that were given ashwagandha were able to retain information learned after being supplemented for 20 days. Although research is still in the early stages, we should be confident that one day researchers will hopefully make a breakthrough with this impressive ancient herb.

7. Boosts Immunity

Ashwagandha is not called the “Indian ginseng” for nothing. It is also known to strengthen our immune systems and increase our energy. Research has shown that the amount of white blood cells in our bodies increase when we regularly take Ashwagandha. If you’re feeling under the weather, add this to your arsenal of cold/flu fighting vitamins and nutrients.

8. Anti-Inflammatory

The many types of diseases that arise due to inflammation - like fibromyalgia and heart disease - can be reduced and possibly even healed by taking Ashwagandha regularly. Taking this herb can reduce the inflammation in your body, which in turn aids to reduce the symptoms associated with disease.

9. Anemia

Ashwagandha can help with iron deficiency due to its high iron content. If you are noticing the usual symptoms of iron deficiency, consult a doctor first before taking this supplement.

10. Aphrodisiac

Yes, you read that right. Ashwagandha was used during ancient times as an aphrodisiac in India. In fact, a 2013 study revealed that the herb can increase semen volume, sperm counts and sperm motility when evaluating the spermatogenic activity in males.

Remedies for DRY MOUTH

2015-03-11T11:01:00.004+05:30

10 Natural Remedies to Prevent Dry Mouth

Most of us are quite familiar with dry mouth syndrome. Dry mouth occurs when your salivary glands are not producing enough saliva, which aids in the digestive process, and prevents harmful bacteria from forming. The medical term for the condition is xerostomia. However, it is not a disease.

Dry mouth can result from a wide variety of causes, which includes; infections, adverse reactions to medications and smoking. You can prevent it from occurring by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here are the most common causes and symptoms attributed to the condition:

What Causes Dry Mouth:
Side effect of certain medications
Side effect of certain medical treatments
Side effect of certain diseases and infections
Smoking
Dehydration
Nerve damage
Surgical removal of the salivary glands
Symptoms of Dry Mouth:
Sores in the mouth
Dehydration
Cracked lips
A dry feeling in the mouth (cotton mouth)
Hoarseness, dry nasal passages, sore throat
Dry feeling in the throat or a dry and red tongue
Difficulty with speech
Problems chewing, tasting, and swallowing
A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth and tongue
Bad breath
10 Home Remedies to Treat Dry Mouth:

1) Ginger - Ginger has some amazing properties, that help fight and prevent many medical conditions. The spicy tasting herb helps produce more saliva in the mouth while fighting off bacteria and infections.

Remedy:
Chew a small piece of fresh ginger slowly for several times a day.
Drink a cup of green tea with ginger and a teaspoon of honey to increase the flavor and to keep your salivary glands functioning properly.
2) Stay Hydrated - Dehydration is one of the most common causes of cotton mouth, which is why it is so important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Avoid sugary soft drinks, as they are a major contributor to dehydration and can also rot your teeth.
Remedy:
Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, especially with each meal to promote healthy digestion.
You can also suck on small pieces of ice and roll it around your tongue.
Snack on frozen chunks of water-based fruits and vegetables to absorb the natural juices. Citrus fruits are the best.
You can blend a combination of fruits or vegetables together for a delicious smoothie.
You can drink up to two glasses of coconut water each day.
Have a cup of green tea or herbal tea each day.
Consume hot liquid foods stews and soups.
3) Aloe Vera - Aloe vera treats the sensitive tissues inside your mouth, keeping your lips and tongue moisturized.

Remedy:
Drink ¼ cup of aloe vera juice twice a day or rinse your mouth with aloe vera juice on a daily basis.
You can also apply pure aloe vera gel around your mouth using a cotton swab.
Leave the gel on for a few minutes, and then rinse your mouth out with cold water. Repeat 2 or 3 times a day.

4) Lemon Juice - The tangy sour taste of lemon juice increases the production of saliva, while keeping your breath smelling fresh and clean. Lemons are high s of Vitamin C and protect you from catching a cold.

Remedy:
Squeeze out half a lemon and add the juice with a tablespoon of honey to a glass of warm water to stay hydrated during the day.
You can make sugar-free homemade lemonade as an alternative solution.
Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto a lemon wedge, and rub it against your tongue to fight off dehydration.
5) Slippery Elm - Slippery elm becomes a gel- substance when mixed together with water. It's used to treat cold sores and even soothes a sore throat. The chemicals of the elm also cause mucous secretion.

Remedy:
Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of slippery elm into a cup of hot water.
Cover the gel and allow it to steep for 10 minutes, before straining. You can add a bit of honey to give it some taste. Drink the slippery elm tea twice a day.
Alternatively, you may prepare a paste with some slippery elm bark powder and a bit of hot water.
Apply the paste solution inside your mouth for a few minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with water, and repeat the process as needed.
6) Oil Pulling - Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic medicine practice that dates back over 3,000 years. This natural remedy has many benefits for treating dry mouth, and for promoting good oral hygiene.

Remedy:
Place 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth, and swish the oil around thoroughly for about 15 minutes.
Spit it out and rinse with warm water.
Brush your teeth as usual and repeat on a daily basis.

7) Cayenne Pepper - Cayenne pepper can help cure nasal congestion problems and dry mouth as well. The sharp tasting cayenne pepper stimulates the production of saliva and kills off bacteria.

Remedy:
Place a tiny amount of ground cayenne pepper to a wet finger, and slowly rub it all around your tongue. You may experience an uncomfortable burning sensation for a little while, but it will help get rid of the dry mouth.
Add a dash of cayenne pepper powder to your soups, salads, and other dishes.
You can also take capsules as a substitute, but make sure you consult your doctor beforehand.
8) Cardamom - Cardamom acts as a natural treatment for oral ulcers, infections, and various digestive issues. You can chew on it to fight bad breath and even help relieve flu symptoms.

Remedy:
Chew on a handful of cardamom after each meal or whenever your mouth becomes dry.
You can mix a teaspoon of cardamom powder to a glass of hot water if you prefer not to chew it raw. Allow the cardamom to steep for 10 minutes before drinking.
Have a glass first thing in the morning and before you go to bed.
You can rinse your mouth with lukewarm cardamom tea twice a day as another option.
9) Grapeseed Oil - Grapeseed oil contains a very high content of Vitamin E, which is used to moisten your mouth and heal cold sores. You can also snack on grapes to absorb their high water content, ideal for preventing dry mouth symptoms.

Remedy:
Gently rub a little grapeseed oil on your tongue and the inside of your cheeks using your fingers.
Allow the grapeseed oil to work its magic overnight.
Rinse your mouth out with warm water the following morning, and then brush your teeth directly after to get the taste out.
Repeat process every night before going to bed.
10) Fennel Seeds - Fennel seeds are a yellow colored spice that promotes fresh breath and eliminates dehydration symptoms. Fennel seeds contain flavonoids, which quench the dry thirst in your mouth.

Remedy:
Grab a handful of fennel seeds and eat them several times a day to prevent dry mouth.
Try mixing equal amounts of fennel seeds and fenugreek seeds together, which also helps to lower bad cholesterol levels.
Dry roast the fennel and fenugreek seeds in a pan.
Eat 1/2 teaspoon of this healthy combination after each meal.
A Few Extra Preventative Measures Against Dry Mouth:

Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, since it minimizes the production of saliva in the mouth.
Take hot showers and breathe the steam in for a few minutes to keep your nasal passageway fully moisturized.
Use a humidifier or vaporizer when you sleep.
Breathe through your nose, not your mouth.

Try to avoid taking medicines that are diuretics, decongestants, and antihistamines.
Gargle with warm salt water 3 or 4 times a day.

Use toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride to keep your tongue clean.
Drink plenty of water with each meal and make sure you chew your food thoroughly before swallowing.
Try to limit your intake of spicy foods, since they can cause irritation on the inside of the mouth.
Choose fresh fruits as snacks instead of junk food to stimulate the saliva glands.
Avoid sugary sodas and drink water instead.

Remedies for Varicose Veins

2015-03-11T08:17:00.001+05:30

Home Remedies for Treating Varicose Veins

According to a number of studies, about 25 percent of all women and 10 percent of men are affected by varicose veins. Varicose veins are dilated and 'puffed up' veins that are usually in the legs that can be painful and have an unpleasant appearance. But don't stop reading here, because there are a number of at-home remedies for treating varicose veins that could help you or someone you know with the condition avoid expensive and painful surgical procedures.

Varicose veins are usually genetic, so if someone in your family has had them, there is a greater chance that you will too. They are caused when the valves in the veins that push blood throughout your circulatory system weaken and become 'flappy', causing fluid to accumulate in the veins. The common signs for the development of varicose veins are tenderness around the area of an enlarged vein, swelling of the legs, a tightening or itching sensation in the legs and a feeling of heaviness in the legs.

Although varicose veins are usually benign, meaning that they do not put your health at risk, their puffed up appearance is startling or discomforting for some, and therefore many doctors recommend cosmetic surgery to remove them. Yet these surgeries can be expensive and keep you off your feet, so it's best to try out some of these simple and completely natural remedies first.

1. Keep Your Feet Up

Just like on any long flight or an extended period sitting down, the blood rushes to your legs and causes them to feel heavy. The feeling with varicose veins is similar, and those that have the condition may experience swelling if they spend the day seated or on their feet. To remedy this uncomfortable feeling, it is best to recline with your legs elevated for anywhere up to an hour. This allows the blood to flow away from the legs and ankles and back towards the heart to decrease swelling and the feeling of heaviness.

2. Ice Your Veins

Applying ice or a cold pack to your varicose veins can help minimize their appearance and reduce the swelling around the vein. This is because the application of cold restricts the bloodflow to the area of application, making the appearance of the swollen veins less apparent. It is also recommended to take a cold or lukewarm bath every so often to keep your bloodflow healthy and your veins and vessels working hard.

3. Exercise

Regularly performing cardiovascular exercise, either running, walking at a fast pace, biking or swimming, keeps your blood flowing as it should and prevents the pooling of liquids in your veins. It is recommended to perform at least 15 minutes of cardiovascular exercise every day (with approval from your doctor), and not just to stay fit. It has been shown that regular exercise can reduce the severity and appearance of varicose veins.

4. Flex Your Feet

Even if you aren't able to get in a full cardiovascular workout, doing a few leg raises or ankle circles will help keep your varicose veins in check. When you contract the muscles in your feet, the blood is forced upward out of your legs and towards the heart. By pointing and flexing your feet a few times, circling your ankles, or doing heel slips where you slide your heels back and forth can keep your circulation in check and blood out of your varicose veins.

5. Try A Compression Stocking

There are special compression socks and stockings that can be purchased at most pharmacies that will help improve circulation in your legs. As explained above, when pressure is applied to the lower legs, the blood is pushed up towards the heart and won't pool in your veins. You can get weaker compression stockings, 20mm Hg, or stronger ones at 60 mm Hg (the stronger versions usually require a prescription from a doctor). They come in a variety of colors and shapes for different parts of the leg and are usually comfortable enough (in the weak and mild versions) for everyday use.

If you or someone you know has varicose veins, you should consult your doctor to determine if you have a higher chance to experience clotting. These natural remedies will help mediate many of the effects of varicose veins, but there is no guarantee that they will completely disappear. There is no harm in trying!

More helpful page

http://www.astrovighnesh.in

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Astrologer Vighnesh

+1 425-358-6565

2015-03-01T12:59:00.000+05:30

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Flaxseeds

Flaxseed is the seed derived from the plant Linum usitatissimum, and have been praised for their extraordinary health benefits. Flaxseeds are loaded with Omega-3 essential fatty acids, extremely high in fiber, and contain Lignans, which help ease menopausal symptoms. The powerful little seeds also help prevent against heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.

There are two different types of flaxseeds, which are the brown and yellow versions. Flaxseeds can be added to yogurts, cereals, and even sprinkled on salads. Flaxseed oil is a substitute for the traditional seed variant, which can be used as a cooking alternative to regular oil. It can help treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and promote low blood pressure.

Precautions:

Pregnant women and possibly breastfeeding mothers should avoid taking ground flaxseed or flaxseed supplements.
Consult with your physician if you are taking blood-thinners, as the flaxseed can increase the risk of bleeding.
People suffering from prostate cancer, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, and hormone-sensitive conditions, should consume the flaxseeds with caution, and consult with your doctors.
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly for people taking diabetes medications, to stabilize the blood sugar levels.
Drink plenty of water with the flaxseeds to prevent gastrointestinal side effects.
Avoid large amounts of flaxseeds, as it may cause intestinal obstruction.

You'll certainly want to add flaxseeds to your dietary intake, after reading about the top 10 incredible health benefits below!

1) Promotes Weight Loss - The omega-3 essential fatty acids help keep your metabolism in check, and give you energy throughout the day. The magical seeds are high in B vitamins, potassium, magnesium and zinc, all essential components for weight loss. Flaxseeds are also gluten-free, and can be mixed together with low fat or Greek yogurts, for a perfect and healthy snack during the day.

2) Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels - Flaxseeds can help keep the LDL cholesterol (the bad guys) down, while promoting HDL cholesterol levels (the good guys) in the system. The LDL cholesterol helps keep your blood pressure regulated, and prevents heart disease. You can eat 2-4 teaspoons per day, or 1-2 capsules of flaxseed oil. Consult with your physician before taking the supplement version.

3) Helps Fight Cancer - The lignans contained in flaxseeds can help reduce the risks for breast cancer, due to their anti-estrogen components. The lignans assist in blocking enzymes that are involved in the production of hormone metabolism, which cause the growth and spread of tumor cells. Flaxseeds also prevent against prostate, ovarian and colon cancer. The omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in fighting off the cancer cells.

4) Protects Against Heart Disease - The ALA omega-3 fatty acids of the flaxseeds, are known for reducing the build-up of fats in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. They also help reduce inflammation, while preventing arterial clots, that cause strokes and heart attacks. Keep your heart healthy with a daily dosage of flaxseeds to your diet!

5) Promotes Healthy Skin - The high anti-inflammatory properties of flaxseeds, helps to keep your skin fully hydrated and moisturized. The essential omega-3 fatty acids also reduce some chronic skin conditions, such as rosacea, acne, eczema, skin allergies, sunburn, and even protect against skin cancer. You can try rubbing a little flaxseed oil gently on your skin on a daily basis to ensure smooth clean skin.

6) Helps Treat Menopausal Symptoms - Flaxseeds are high in lignans, which contain estrogen-like qualities that can reduce menopausal symptoms in women. The lignans act like conventional hormone replacement therapy, which combat hot flashes, mood swings, and prevent against ovarian cancer. The suggested dosage of flaxseeds is a single tablespoon, two or three times per day. Please consult with your doctor beforehand.

7) Keeps Blood Sugar Stabilized - Flaxseeds are widely used to promote healthy blood sugar levels in people who suffer from Type II diabetes. The alpha-linolenic acid and fiber of the tiny seeds, help prevent high blood sugar levels in the body. They also improve insulin sensitivity in glucose intolerant people.

8) Promotes Healthy Hair - The vitamin E contained in flaxseeds, helps provide adequate nourishment to your hair follicles and roots. The omega-3 fatty acids replenishe brittle hair, prevents against scales, and also against alopecia (hair loss). The essential fatty acids of the seeds aids in the promotion of strong healthy hair.

9) Improves Digestion - The high soluble fiber content contained in flaxseeds, helps to promote healthy digestion, and prevents against colon cancer. Consumption of ground flaxseeds allows for the smooth passage of food through the intestines as well. Make sure you drink plenty of water to aid in the digestion process, and stay fully hydrated all day.

10) Detoxifies the Body - Flaxseeds are rich in fiber, which flushes out harmful toxins from the body, cleanses the colon, and helps to promote a healthy immune system. The detoxifying process is essential for combating chronic fatigue and inflammation symptoms. Add a tablespoon of flaxseeds to your morning bowl of oatmeal, and reap the detoxifying benefits!

Sivarathri Puja

2015-02-17T20:13:00.001+05:30

10 Health tips

2015-02-05T22:05:00.005+05:30

2015-02-01T10:31:00.002+05:30

11 Walking Workouts for Your Body and Your Soul

It you ever feel you need to relax, recharge your battery and get in better shape, but just haven't found the time, the answer might be simpler than you think. Walking can be an amazing exercise for anyone who wants a quick pick-me-up for the body and brain, as well as for everyone who wants to maintain a healthy and fit life style. Even a daily 10-minute stroll can do wonders and give you a great feeling for up to 12 hours.

Whether you want to burn fat, boost energy, lift your mood, or just get a bit more toned in a few important places, we have the workouts and tips for you.

High-Intensity Walks:

You could go down a size (or more) this month by adding high-intensity walks to your weekly schedule. Simply go out for a 10-minute routine of fast, high-intensity, walks on 3 non-consecutive days a week. During the rest of the week you can do moderate-intensity activities for about 30 minutes per day. These walks will work even better before or after other cardio workouts and as always, the more you workout, the better you'll feel.

Treadmill Slimmer:

It's too cold outside? It's too hot outside? Your favorite TV show just started? Treadmills are the answer to all of those. No need to worry about weather, darkness or anything else, just worry about yourself. Another bonus of the treadmill is that you can see your progress in speed and distance which will help you get more motivated. Here is a great half an hour workout that can burn more than 150 calories: (1 MPH = 1.6 KPH)

Walking Sprint:

Start by warming up with a 5 minutes walk at normal speed, then walk as fast as you can for 10 minutes (but don’t run). Note how far you went and turn around, walking back to your starting point at a brisk pace. When walking back, your speed should be lower than your walking sprint and you should slow down as you get closer to your starting point. Each time you do this workout, try to walk faster and go farther than you did last time, until you are happy with your time and distance.

The Weekend Walk:

This 60+ minute workout can crank up your post-exercise calorie burn nearly fivefold compared with a 30-minute walk or other short exercises. And did I mention that you will burn nearly 350 calories during the walk itself? Plan your route so you will enjoy your surroundings and even meet up with friends, nothing is better than some company of long walk this. And don’t forget to bring some water with you!

Belly-Busting walk:

You can add this simple change to your daily walks to zero in on shaping your abs. The recommended time for this workout is about 10 minutes at first, adding more time as you begin to feel it isn't too taxing on you.

When walking, focus on drawing your abs in toward your spine, but don’t hold your breath. It might help to imagine that your legs extend up above your navel. Try to maintain the contraction throughout your walk. If you feel it's too much, release it for a short break while still walking, and resume after a minute or two. The slight hip swivel will make your lower torso rotate, activating more ab muscles and burning more calories.

Happiness Walk:

This workout has a lot to do with your mind and not just your body, combine these easy steps in your walk and you will be much more calm and relaxed when you are done.

1) Focus on your feet, imagine the firm ground beneath you as each foot rolls from heel to toe with each step you take. Try to keep this awareness of your steps for 2 to 3 minutes and not to get distracted.

2) Turn your attention to breathing. As you walk, lift your torso and pull your shoulders back to stand upright and increase lung capacity. As you inhale, think of the energy you are giving your body and your mind, then exhale all of the tiredness and pain.

3) Mentally speak to yourself, think about the fresh air and healthy workout you are doing. focus on the good things and if you find yourself wondering off into bad territory, just go back to focusing on your feet.

Nature Walk:

In just 5 minutes, mother nature can work wonders on your mood and physical well being. If possible, go for short lunchtime strolls in parks or mountain areas. It has been found that it will improve your memory and attention 20% more than a walk in an urban environment, due to fewer distractions and cleaner air.

Walking with Poles:

A good pair of walking poles will cost you about $90 and up but it may boost your calorie burn by up to 46%. Not only will you be giving your arms a workout, but the poles also reduce impact on your joints.

Outdoor challenge:

It not shocking to hear that walking uphill can activate 25% more muscle fibers than just strolling on a level terrain. It might be harder, but that why it's called a challenge. Find a hill to add to your walk, preferably one that takes at least 2 to 2½ minutes to climb, and try this workout.

First warm up at an easy walking pace for 5 to 10 minutes and then walk up and down the hill. After you return to level terrain, do 2 minutes of brisk walking and go back to the hill climb. Repeat the hill and level walk for your desired workout length and finish it up with 5 minutes of easy walking to cool down.

Treadmill Hike:

If you have no hills or tracks near your home then this treadmill routine can give you the same fat burning experience of an uphill walk in just 25 minutes.(1 MPH = 1.6 KPH)

Indoor Leg Workout:

If you don’t have a treadmill, and you don’t really want to buy one either, then you can just as easily use the stairs at your home to get a good workout. The routine takes about 5 minutes and can be performed daily:

1. Start by walking up and down one flight normally.
2. Slowly walk up sideways, crossing bottom foot over top, walk down normally and repeat facing the opposite direction. Try to keep your head up while doing this but also be careful not to fall over.
3. Step up on the first stair, then down, starting with right foot (right up, left up, right down, left down). Do this for about 10 times, take a moment to breath and repeat, starting with the left foot.
4. Climb the stairs two steps at a time and go down normally but quickly, using each step.
5. Run up the stairs and walk down normally.
6. Repeat numbers 4 and 5 another four times.
7. At the bottom, place your right foot on the first or second step, bend your knees, and lower into a lunge. Keep the right knee directly over the ankle as you do so. Push off with right foot to return to start. Repeat with your left leg and then alternate legs until you do 20 lunges total.
8. Walk up and down normally one time to relax and do some stretching.

The purple sweet potato

2015-01-29T10:30:00.002+05:30

The purple sweet potato: The latest in a long line of potential ‘Superfoods’

The purple sweet potato, the latest food item presented to the general public as a potential superfood. The potato’s colouring contained the chemical anthocyanin, which is known to lower the risk of cancer and could even possibly slow down certain types of the disease. The colour is the important part because the purple colour is responsible for the amount of anthocyanin in the potato. Scientists have already used two strands of anthocyanin to treat colon cancer and found that the pigment slowed down the growth of cancerous cells. Anthocyanin, which produces red, blue or purple colours in different types of food, can also be found in blueberries, red grapes and red cabbage, however the specially grown purple sweet potato has a higher concentration of the chemical than any other species of potato. Dr Weiqun Wang, who was also involved in testing the potato, has said that the new purple sweet potato tasted sweeter than other potatoes but was still perfectly edible. According to Wang, “It’s good not only for cancer prevention but other benefits like antioxidants as well.”

SWEET POTATO (Kamote) far exceeds the nutrition and health values of rice.
Here are the benefits of substituting rice with kamote:
1. Sweet potato is more filling and suppresses hunger pangs longer. It is also cheaper than rice.
2. Unlike rice, it is easy to grow. It grows in backyards with or without fertilizers. Local government executives can provide their poor communities with idle government land for planting kamote which the entire community can share.
3. Unlike rice which needs to be eaten with a dish, Sweet Potato tastes good and can be eaten by itself. Thus, substituting rice with sweet potato saves money for other needs.
4. Rice cannot match the nutritional values of potato. Because rice converts to sugar in the body, the Philippines registers as a top producer of diabetics in the world. The poor tends to load up on rice and less on the dish which are more expensive. That makes them vulnerable to diabetes, an ailment known in developed countries as a rich man’s disease.
5. The nutritional values of a 3 oz. baked sweet potato are: calories 90, fat 0 g, saturated fat 0 g, cholesterol 0 mg, carbohydrate 21 g, protein 2 g, dietary fiber 3 g, sodium 36 mg

6. Too much rice consumption can make you sick, but sweet potato(kamote) can bring you to health and keep away some health problems. These have been proved medically.

Sweet Potato (kamote) lowers hypertension, bad cholesterol and even blood sugar when eaten as as a substitute to rice! (Wonder if they mean white rice or brown rice as well....) The purple sweet potato (kamote) is particularly effective for lowering hypertension.

The Korean medical documentary credits the sweet potato (kamote) as high fiber and is one of the best foods that one can eat to prevent cancer!

A Beginners' Gude to Meditation at Home

2015-01-23T12:56:00.001+05:30

A Beginners’ Guide to Meditation at Home

Meditation has many known health benefits, such as increasing longevity and reducing stress. People have been practicing meditation for over two millennia, with Hindu texts describing meditative forms as early as the 6th-century BCE. In my youth, if I heard the word ‘meditation’, all I could think about was a person in the Far East, sitting with his legs crossed and humming to himself. A couple of years ago I was introduced to real meditation and discovered the calming and healing properties it has, and now I’d love to share them with you.

What is meditation

The Webster dictionary defines meditation as “the act or process of spending time in quiet thought: the act or process of meditating”. Many people meditate without even knowing that they’re doing it. A person sitting and fishing for a few hours in silence is performing a type of meditation, the same as another who might be jogging with their headphones on. It involves dedicating 100% of your attention to one subject. Meditation has also been a key factor in Eastern religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as Western religions like Christianity and Judaism.

Health benefits of meditating

Meditation has many proven health benefits, such as silencing your internal chatter, calming and grounding one’s self, and getting in touch with yourself, to name a few. A recent Harvard University study discovered that daily meditation can rebuild the brain’s gray matter in as little as eight weeks. Participants also reported a reduction in stress - a prime factor in the decrease in gray matter density.

Who can meditate

From young children to elderly people, everyone can meditate. There are many forms of meditation, some more suitable for people of different ages, so don’t be daunted if one form doesn’t work for you. Finding the meditation that suits you best is very gratifying.

Before you start meditating

The first thing you need to do, is decide on the purpose of your meditation: You may want to calm down, get to know yourself better, or even make an important business decision. Knowing why you’re meditating is the first step to a useful meditation. You don’t need special clothes (but comfortable ones make it easier) or equipment. All you need a quiet spot and to reserve some time for it.

When you begin your meditation, don’t lay down or sit in a slumped position – these positions do not help you stay alert and focused. Sit up straight, either on a chair, on your heels or cross-legged. Find the position that is comfortable for you, sitting in the lotus position is not mandatory in meditation.

Don’t meditate after eating, digestion can be very distracting during a session. If you just had a meal, wait for 2 hours and let your stomach calm down. You should avoid smoking for at least 30 minutes before the meditation.

Find a quiet spot that you will be comfortable in, this is essential for the first few times you meditate. Once you are comfortable with meditation, you’ll be able to do it in noisier places. Remember to switch off your cell phone - it’s a distraction. Consider lighting a scented candle or some incense to help your meditation and switch off or dim the lights – bright lights may also be a distraction.

How to meditate

Do some basic stretching before you start, it will loosen up your muscles and help you be more attentive to your body later on.

Breathing is the most important factor in meditation, we use each breath as a focal point. Close your eyes and deeply inhale through your nose, then slowly exhale through your mouth. Feel how your chest expands and contracts with each breath. Listen to the silence between breaths - notice how everything becomes still and quiet. You may even notice your heartbeat slowing down. If your thoughts begin to scatter, concentrate on your breathing.

As a beginner, focusing might not come naturally. Give it time and be patient with yourself. Some people find that focusing on their breathing won’t quiet their minds, and may need to try other methods:

Counting your breaths may help – count each breath and when you reach ten, start over. However, if you become focused on the numbers and not on the breathing, stop.

Another alternative is repeating a mantra – there’s a reason some people say “Om” when they meditate – it helps drown the outside world and focus on the sound. You can repeat any other word that helps you calm down if Om is not for you.

Try visualizing a calm place – it can be anything: the beach, a forest, your childhood home, etc. as long as it’s your sanctuary. When you find your sanctuary, don’t be afraid to explore it – there's no need to try and “create” your surroundings, they’re already there.

Set aside at least fifteen minutes a day for meditation (more is welcome). Remember: short daily repetitions are better than one long weekly session because they form a habit. Eventually, the practice of meditation will find its way into your everyday life. You’ll find yourself considering your food choices more carefully, making decisions more consciously and focusing on things you read, watch or listen to with greater attention.

One last thing

Learning to silence your inner thoughts takes practice, but managing to attain inner peace is a huge reward. Remember – “practice makes perfect”, so keep meditating regularly. It may take you a few weeks or even a couple of months to learn to properly focus, so don’t get frustrated or disheartened it you’re not a meditation guru overnight

Contact for Teaching Yoga-Pranayama-Meditation for better health, personality development.

Top 10 reasons to eat fruit

2015-01-20T21:32:00.001+05:30

Top 10 reasons to eat fruit

How many times have you heard people say that you are what you eat? When it comes to reaching your fitness goals, this is definitely a principle to live by.
If you keep on loading up on carbs, insisting on consuming fatty foods and not minding the caloric content of food at all – then there could be disastrous results as far as your weight is concerned.
Now, the same principle applies when it comes to the effect of the foods that you are eating to the quality of your skin.

You might be surprised at how loading up on a lot of fruits and vegetables can do wonders for your skin.
The problem is that we live in a world where everybody seems to be looking for that quick fix.
Rather than thinking about the natural methods that you can use to improve the quality of your skin, most people browse through the shelves of drugstores and the ‘Healthy & Beauty’ sections of department stores.
They look for creams that help prevent wrinkles, lotions which make the skin smooth, ‘miracle’ pills which will make them instantly youthful-looking and beautiful.
But if you really want to have better looking skin, it is better if you will do it the old fashioned way: by “feeding your skin with foods that will help you retain that youthful glow “.
The Top 10 Foods that Benefit Your Skin the Most
Aside from giving you a lot of benefits health wise, consuming these food items will help your skin remain luminous, elastic, smooth to the feel and healthy.
Take a look at the top 10 foods that will give you great skin:

1. Avocados
This rich tropical fruit is filled with vitamins C and E which works well towards fighting the effects of skin aging.
Although it is considered to be high in fat content, the type of fat that avocados have is monounsaturated.
This means that the fruit is also loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids that help improve the quality of your skin.

2. Berries
Blueberries, blackcurrants, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries are all beneficial for your skin.It is even better if you can consume the exotic Acai berries which come from the Amazonian forests in Brazil.

Acai berries have the most potent antioxidant content among any other fruits in the world, which is the reason why it is called a ‘superfood‘.
When you load up on foods which are rich in antioxidants, the effect on your body is that free radicals will be neutralized.
These free radicals are the culprit behind premature skin aging and cell damage.In addition, berries are a great source of vitamins C and E, Riboflavin and fibers.
More importantly, these tiny fruits have a natural ingredient which helps the body manufacture collagen – which makes the skin supple and smooth. Not bad for really small fruits, right? [Fruits For skin care]

3. Dark Chocolate
Surprisingly enough, the oh-so-sinful dark chocolates do have a high antioxidant content which helps improve the flow of blood to the skin.
It also gets rid of the rough feel to your skin while at the same time protecting it from sun damage.

4. Green Tea
If there’s one food item in our list which is also considered as the ultimate health drink, it is none other than green tea. This beverage is considered to be healthier than water and when it comes to the health of your skin, it is the one to beat.

Did you know that green tea is even used as a natural remedy for acne? Green tea is also a potent antioxidant. When you drink green tea regularly, you will get the daily dose of vitamins C, D and K that the body needs.
As you can see, there are numerous benefits that you will get to enjoy by drinking green tea while also improving the quality of your skin – so ditch the caffeine and substitute it with a cup or two of green tea now.

5. Mackerel, Salmon, Sardines & Fresh Tuna
You may notice how all of these fish variants are on the oily side.
Don’t think that just because they’re oily, it already means that they will not contribute to the health of your skin at all.
These types of fish actually contain the healthy and essential fatty acids in the form of Omega-3 oils.
What it does for the health of your skin is to decrease the chances of your skin clogging up while at the same time improving its elasticity. All in all, aside from the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids to your health, it also generally improves the quality of your skin – making it suppler and younger-looking.

6. Oysters
Although they are popular as aphrodisiacs, oysters actually are an excellent source of zinc.
What this does for your skin is to help renew and revitalize it, while assisting with the production of collagen at the same time.

7. Pomegranate Fruits & Pomegranate Juice
Just like Acai berries, pomegranate is also considered to be a super food because of its high antioxidant content.
Whether it’s the pure juice form or the fruit itself that you will eat, you will get to enjoy a unique benefit to your skin – which is to prevent the appearance of varicose veins.
This is due to the fact that pomegranate contains Anthocyanins which help strengthen the walls of the tiny blood vessels which in turn supply the skin with the nutrients that it needs.

8. Spinach
Popeye’s power veggie is something which you should also be eating a lot of.
Spinach is rich in alpha-lipoic acid and lutein – these two compounds work great against skin aging and also have anti-inflammatory benefits.

9. Tomatoes
Plump, red and juicy tomatoes are a great source of lycopene.
This does not just work well as an antioxidant to benefit your skin, but lycopene helps prevent the occurrence of certain cancers as well.

10. Walnuts
Just like fish oils, walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
The result when you feed your skin with this is that you will have smoother skin, and your body will be more able to battle inflammatory diseases.
Fill your grocery cart with these items the next time that you go shopping and watch nature work wonders on your skin!

25 Fantastic Uses for Olive Oil!

2015-01-17T11:12:00.002+05:30

25 Fantastic Uses for Olive Oil!

Olive oil is one of the most popular ingredients in the kitchen, but it can also be found in the medicine cabinet and even on a night stand. The fact that it is rich in vitamin E and essential antioxidants, makes it one of the most efficient measures to balance blood pressure levels and cholesterol, to prevent heart attacks, cancer and fight aging. And if you thought that's where its benefits end, you are sorely mistaken...

Here are 25 more uses for this excellent material, the olive oil!

1. To prevent snoring - Swallow a spoon of olive oil before bed.

2. To reduce stretch marks - Massage olive oil on your skin.

3. To treat acne - prepare a mix made of 3 table spoons of olive oil with 4 table spoons of sea salt, and put on your face for 1-2 minutes. The mix will clean the pores and keep the moisture of your skin. Wash with hot water and soap.

4. To alleviate ear pain - Spill one drop of warm olive oil in your ear.

5. To reduce stomach ulcers and pain - Mix one table spoon of olive oil with a 3/4 cup of citrus juice or vinegar and drink.

6. Olive oil can serve as a substitute for shaving cream.

7. To strengthen your fingernails - Soak them in a bowl with olive oil.

8. To rehabilitate your skin - To treat dry skin of the hands, elbows and knees, warm a few table spoons of olive oil (until it's luke-warm) and smear on the relevant areas.

9. To treat colds - Warm a mixture of 1/3 cup of olive oil, 1/3 cup of sesame oil, 4 drops of thyme, 2 drops of rosemary oil and massage the warm mixture on the chest area.

10. To treat dandruff - Massage olive oil into your scalp and leave overnight. Wash your hair in the morning and wash with a regular shampoo. Try this treatment for a week.

11. To treat dry hair with split ends - Warm olive oil and smear on the scalp for 45 minutes.

12. To treat after hair coloring - Soak a soft cotton towel with olive oil and wipe the spotted skin, it may take some time but the color will come off the skin.

13. To prevent hair loss - Mix 2 eggs with 2 table spoons of olive oil. Smear on the scalp and hair for 40 minutes and then wash with cool or luke-warm water. It's recommended to repeat this 3 times a week.

14. To treat lice - Mix one table spoon of olive oil with 5 drops of the tea tree oil, and smear on the scalp for several minutes. Then comb your hair with a lice comb and wash with hot water.

15. Relieve toothache - Mix drops of clove oil with drops of olive oil, in about a ratio of 3:1, and use a cotton ball to put on the aching area. Not recommended for children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

16. Remove Mascara - Drip a bit of olive oil on a cotton ball and wipe the makeup from your eyes.

17. Relieve Coughing - Swallow a spoon of olive oil mixed with a spoon of honey. Another option is to massage the upper back and chest with olive oil at body temperature.

18. Treating swollen / red gums - Wash your mouth with a mix of olive oil and water.

19. Prevent diaper rash - Mix 2 spoons of olive oil with a spoon of water and smear on the baby's rear.

20. To polish furniture - Mix olive oil and lemon juice at a ratio of 2:1. Use a gentle towel soaked in the mix to polish the furniture.

21.To maintain garden tools - Smear a bit of olive oil on garden tools to keep them from accumulating filth and corrosion.

22. To prevent squeaks - Smear some olive oil on screaming hinges to make them silent.

23. For digestive problems - Swallow a spoon of olive oil every morning on an empty stomach. Another option is to drink a glass of water with a spoon of olive oil and a spoon of lemon juice.

24. To maintain knives - After washing thoroughly with water and soap, wipe the blades well and then use a small amount of olive oil and gentle rub it on the blades with a towel.

25. Prevent wax from building up in the candlesticks - just drip a bit of olive oil and it won't stick.

Treatment of Acid Reflex in a natural way

2015-01-16T10:43:00.001+05:30

12 Heartburn and Stomach Ulcer Remedies

You would never think of tomatoes as being bad for you, but they can, in fact, make things even worse for your ulcers. You'll truly be amazed at which other health foods you should avoid to prevent acid reflux from occurring. Before we discuss the 12 natural home remedies for stomach ulcers and heartburn, it's important to have a better understanding of the causes and symptoms between each disorder.

What are Stomach Ulcers?

Many people make the mistake of confusing peptic ulcers with heartburn, but they are far from alike, despite having similar symptoms. Ulcers consist of tiny open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine areas, causing excruciating pains.

What Causes Stomach Ulcers?

Helicobacter pylori is the main bacteria infection that triggers stomach ulcers. Helicobacter pylori develops from certain medications, poor dietary lifestyle, and stomach acid buildup.

What Are the Symptoms Associated with Stomach Ulcers?

The most common symptoms attributed to ulcers are burning pains that begin at the top of your chest, eventually reaching your belly button area, and sharp pains that keep you awake at night. There are also pains that occur 2-3 hours after eating, which may provoke mild nausea. These pains generally go away after vomiting.

Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Stomach Ulcers:

•Coffee - Coffee stimulates acid production and can cause severe indigestion problems.

•Alcohol - Alcohol can irritate and erode the lining of the stomach and small intestine, triggering the ulcers.

•Spicy Foods - Certain peppers found in dishes such as Mexican chili, can trigger heartburn in a flash. Avoid spicy foods as much as possible, since they simulate acid reflux buildup and gastrointestinal pains.

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn occurs when the stomach acid backs up from the esophagus, and eventually reaches your throat area. Heartburn is a very unpleasant burning sensation that can truly leave a bad taste in your mouth. Nearly 1 out of every 5 Americans suffers from it.

What Causes Heartburn?

The common cause of heartburn is a lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, that doesn't contract regularly. Unhealthy foods play a major contributor of heartburn, especially foods that are deep fried or cooked in grease. Overeating can also cause acid reflux buildup due to the excess amount of pressure on the stomach.

What Are the Symptoms of Heartburn?

Symptoms of heartburn or acid reflux, include a dry cough, a sore throat that causes difficulty swallowing, an increased burning sensation after digestion and tasting acid or food in the back of your mouth. These symptoms intensify the moment you lay down.

Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Acid Reflux:

•Citrus Fruits - Citrus fruits might be ideal for the common cold, but the acidity inside can cause heartburn, particularly on an empty stomach.

•Garlic and Onions - Although both vegetables are essential for a healthy dietary intake, they also wreck havoc on people suffering from heartburn.

•Carbonated Beverages - Carbonated beverages cause gastric distension, leading to acid reflux and indigestion. It's best to stay away from sodas, and just drink mineral water instead.

5 Natural Treatments for Heartburn

1) Eating a Healthy Diet - There are many foods that are extremely good for you, but bad for your heartburn. Some of these foods include; ground beef, sour cream, cottage cheese, onions, tomatoes, and citrus fruits. Make sure you avoid fried and greasy foods to prevent heartburn from occurring. Drink plenty of water in between meals and skip the carbonated beverages altogether.

2) Enzymes and Probiotics - Probiotics are often referred to as the “good bacteria”, since they promote healthy digestion. Probiotics minimize the growth of harmful bacteria, and boost the immune system. Probiotics are available in supplement form, and help combat acid reflux. It's recommended to take a hydrochloric acid or HCI enzyme supplement along with probiotics for smooth digestion.

3) Aloe Vera Juice - Aloe vera juice has been known to treat acid reflux and other medical symptoms. It's advisable to drink 1/4 cup of aloe vera approximately 20 minutes before a meal or whenever you experience acid reflux issues. You can even mix the aloe vera with tea or water if you don't like the basic taste of it. Do not drink aloe vera juice if you have diabetes, kidney failure or thyroid disease. Pregnant women and children should also avoid it.

4) Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar is used to treat stomach acid buildup, as ironic as it sounds. The cider helps digestion by breaking down fats, despite the acidity factors. It is recommended to mix one or two teaspoons of the apple cider vinegar with a glass of water. Drink a glass of the cider before meals or when you feel a reflux attack coming on.

5) Baking Soda - A little baking soda is all it takes to reduce your acid reflux problems. You may not appreciate the bland taste, but you'll feel much better afterward. Mix a half or a full teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water.

Natural Treatments for Stomach Ulcers

1) Cabbage Juice - Cabbage is packed with an abundance of natural anti-oxidant properties that help prevent stomach ulcers. Cabbage contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K and folate, all essential for treating acid reflux and fighting cancer.

2) Zinc Carnosine - Zinc-Carnosine is used to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems. The function of the Zinc-Carnosine is to repair damaged tissues and heal ulcer wounds.

Recommended Dosage: Use for 8 weeks, with a daily dose of 75mg in divided doses.

3) Probiotics - Probiotics improve intestinal functions and help fend off Helicobacter pylori. They are also used to prevent other gastric disorders, such as diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease, from occurring.

Recommended Dosage: Take a probiotic of 1 to 2 million CFUs daily.

4) Glutamine - Glutamine significantly reduces the amount of inflammation brought on by a Helicobacter pylori infection. Glutamine supplements can be purchased at any local health store.

Recommended Dosage: Take 2 grams of glutamine daily for stomach ulcers.

5) Ginger Root - Ginger limits the harmful helicobacter pylori from acting up. Add several slices of fresh ginger roots to hot water, and drink the ginger mixture approximately 20 minutes or so before each meal for a quick soothing remedy.

6) Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Powder (DGL) - DGL can work wonders for peptic ulcers. They protect the inner lining of your small intestine and stomach.

Recommended Dosage: Suggested dose is 200 to 400 mg daily dissolved in 200 ml warm water.

7) Astaxanthin - These powerful antioxidants help protect the gastrointestinal or GI tract and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. The free radical scavenging activity of astaxanthin also combats against Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection.

Recommended Dosage: Suggested daily dose is 40 mg.

Bonus Recipe: How to Prepare an Anti Reflux Smoothie:

•alt1 cup diced fresh pineapple

•1 cup diced fresh papaya

•1/2 cup Greek yogurt

•1/2 cup ice

•1/2 cup pineapple juice or water

•Mix all in a blender and drink.

2015-01-16T09:23:00.002+05:30

The Famous 8 (Also called as “F8″) Walk Technique

Highlights:

Benefits:

Duration Timing of practice:

Who can do it:

Any adult person between the ages of 18 and 75

How to do:

List of Healthy Foods that Raise Serotonin Levels

2015-01-12T09:55:00.001+05:30

List of Healthy Foods That Raise Serotonin Levels

Many foods boost serotonin levels naturally and can improve mood.

Serotonin acts as a neurotransmitter, relaying signals from one area of the brain to another. Researchers believe that an imbalance in serotonin levels can cause depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic anxiety disorder and anger management issues. While certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can raise serotonin levels in the brain -- and may well be essential for your ability to cope and function -- it's useful to recognize that foods containing certain vitamins and minerals can also give this important chemical a boost.

Foods Rich in Vitamin B Complex

Low levels of B vitamins, often referred to as "anti-stress" vitamins, may affect mood, anxiety and depression levels, cognitive function and memory, Natural News reported in the article, "Mood Food: Boost Serotonin Levels With Natural Treatments." The brain needs B vitamins to make neurotransmitters with a calming effect and serotonin. Cereals, whole grains, potatoes, pork, liver, kidney beans, chicken, wheat germ, bananas, peanuts, eggs, mushrooms, watermelon, grapefruit, shellfish and dairy products are all excellent sources of B vitamins.

Foods Rich in Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids make up every cell membrane and are vital for the brain's proper functioning, says Dr. Frank Sacks, professor of Cardiovascular Disease and Prevention at the Harvard School of Public Health. ALA -- alpha-linolenic acid -- is found in vegetable oils like canola and soybean, flaxseed and walnuts. Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach and salad greens are also rich sources of ALA. EPA, eicosapentaenoic acid, and DHA, docosahexanoic acid, can be found in fatty fish like salmon.

Foods Rich in L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea, which is believed to increase alpha waves in the brain, creating a feeling of relaxation, while maintaining mental alertness, Natural News wrote. It can improve the quality of your sleep -- without causing daytime drowsiness, a 2008 study in the "Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition" reported. Evidence from EEG readings showed that L-Theanine had a direct effect on the brain and relaxed the mind of study participants. Similarly, a 2010 study published in "Nutritional Neuroscience" found that a combination of L-Theanine and caffeine may improve alertness, while increasing the levels of serotonin and GABA, another calming neurotransmitter.

Foods Rich in Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral known to relax muscles and nerves, said Natural News. It increases energy levels and activates the B vitamins necessary for serotonin production. Almonds, spinach, cashews, soy milk, black beans, peanut butter, whole-wheat bread, avocado, potatoes baked with skin, cooked brown rice, raisins, apples and raw carrots are great sources of magnesium, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.

2015-01-12T09:49:00.003+05:30

Health tips--- 12 Indian Foods That Cut Fat

1. Garlic

An effective fat-burning food, garlic contains the sulphur compound allicin, which has anti-bacterial effects and helps reduce cholesterol and unhealthy fats.

2. Cardamom

This is a thermogenic herb that increases metabolism and helps burn body fat. Cardamom is considered one of the best digestive aids.

3. Cabbage

Raw or cooked cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction.

4. Buttermilk

The probiotic food contains just 2.2 grams of fat and about 99 calories. Regular intake provides the body with all essential nutrients and does not add fats and calories to the body.

5. Chilies

Chilies contain capsaicin that helps in increasing the metabolism. Capsaicin is a thermogenic food, so it causes the body to burn calories for 20 minutes after you eat the chillies.

1. Cinnamon and cloves

The spices have been found to improve the function of insulin and to lower glucose, total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides in people with type 2 diabetes.

2. curry leaves

Incorporating curry leaves into your daily diet can help you lose weight. These leaves flush out fat and toxins, reducing fat deposits that are stored in the body, as well as reducing bad cholesterol levels. If you are overweight, incorporate eight to 10 curry leaves into your diet daily. Chop them finely and mix them into a drink, or sprinkle them over a meal.

3. Honey

It is a home remedy for obesity. It mobilises the extra fat deposits in the body allowing it to be utilised as energy for normal functions. One should start with about 10 grams or a tablespoon, taken with hot water early in the morning.

4. Millet

Fibre rich foods such as millets – jowar, bajra, ragi, etc – absorb cholesterol and help increase the secretion of the bile that emulsifies fats.

5. Moong dal

The bean sprouts are rich in Vitamin A, B, C and E and many minerals, such as calcium, iron and potassium. It is a rich source of protein and fibre, which helps lower blood cholesterol level. The high fibre content yields complex carbohydrates, which aid digestion, are effective in stabilising blood sugar and prevent its rapid rise after meal consumption

1. Mustard oil

This has low saturated fat compared to other cooking oils. It has fatty acid, oleic acid, erucic acid and linoleic acid. It contains antioxidants, essential vitamins and reduces cholesterol, which is good for the heart.

2. Turmeric

Its regular intake may help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high BP, increase blood circulation and prevent blood clotting, helping to prevent heart attack.

To cure completely Ayurvedic treatment and natural food supplement is always better. Call for advices and methods for clarity.

+91 9445548316 *India and +1 (425) 358-6565. Vighnesh K.V.

www.astrovighnesh.com

skype: kvvighnesh

2015-01-10T09:59:00.000+05:30

It is quite ordinary to have dark circles under the eyes (black or dark eye circles), but they are usually momentary and can be treated.

Causes oF Dark under eye circles

1.Dark Circles under eyes are normally due to a lack of sleep, fatigue, stress, shortage or some disease

2.Dark circles can be due to genetic factors

3.Nasal congestion may cause dark under eye circles

4.Chronic atopic eczema on skin may dark circles

5.Dark circles under eyes may be due to aging which thins the skin around the eyes

6.Eyelid swelling or eye puffiness can produce shadows creating light dark eye circles.

Home Remedies For Dark circles under Eyes

1.Drink at least ten glasses of water each day.

2.Take all safety measures to avoid strain on the eyes

3.Eight hours of sleep is a must for all of us, particularly for people having dark circles under their eyes

4.Do not leave cream on the skin around the eyes for long time. Eliminate the cream applied around the eye after 10 min. No cream must be left on the skin around the eyes for long periods

5.Close your eyes and cover eyelids with slices of raw potato or cucumber for 20-25 minutes. Wash with warm water and then apply a cream. This remedy is best Home Remedy for Dark circles under Eyes

6.Home Remedy for Dark circles under eyes: Create a 1:1 mixture of fresh potato and cucumber juices. Soak some cotton and put on your eyelids and stay for 20 minutes and then wash your eyes with cold water

7.Apply a mixture of lemon and tomato juice (equivalent parts) on the dark circles 2 times a day.

8.Home Remedy for Dark circles under eyes: Make a paste of turmeric powder with pineapple juice and apply it for dark circles under the eyes

9.Apply compressed mint around the eye

10.Massage with almond oil under and around eyes at bed time daily for 2 weeks and see the development. Almond helps to get rid of dark circles, and is an excellent "skin food". .

11.Massage the area with a powdered Vitamin E capsule and wipe off with a mixture of honey and egg white

12.Put hot and cold clothes alternatively under eyes for 10-15 minutes. Then apply some almond oil on the dark area before going to bed

Puffiness oF Eyes:

1.Elevate the head of your bed at night. This helps avoid fluids from accumulating around your eyes as you sleep.

2.Apply vitamin E or olive oil for puffiness.

3.Bind some potato grates in a cloth and put over eyes for about 15-20 minutes.

4.Place chilled cucumber slices or damp tea bags over eyes for about 20-25 minutes.

5.Apply a cool tap water squeeze to the skin under your eyes for about 15 minutes

For Better Vision:

1.Eat vegetables and fruits wealthy in vitamin A.

2.Dip carrot leave in hot water and leave for a few minutes. Drink the liquid 3 times in a day before meals.

3.Dip cotton balls in rose water or cold water and stay under the eyes for 10 minutes..

4.Try placing chilled chamomile tea bags over and around the eyes.

2015-01-09T09:10:00.000+05:30

Homemade Mouthwash to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Traditional mouthwash is usually made with a sharp mint flavor to make our breath smell fresh and pleasant. However, mint only masks the smell and actually feeds the odor-causing bacteria with more sugar. Also, most commercial brands of mouthwash are made up mostly from synthetic colors, flavors and chemicals that are nowhere near good for you.

Instead of just pretending to freshen your breath, you can make your own mouthwash at home using natural ingredients that will clean your mouth from the bottom up. This mouthwash is made from ingredients that you likely have a home, so give it a shot (literally) and get to know the homemade goodness you've been missing!

About the ingredients:

Honey: This ingredient has a number of anti-bacterial properties that kill off all the bad bacteria in your mouth, instead of feeding them with sugar. Also, adding honey makes the wash taste better. Use organic or raw honey for the best results.

Cinnamon: A miracle spice in every way, cinnamon gets rid of odor by killing off the odor-causing bacteria in one blast. The International Association for Dental Research found that people who chewed cinnamon gum had a 50 percent decrease in oral bacteria versus people who chewed mint gum.
Lemon: The last ingredient of this mouthwash is a given; lemon is strong, refreshing and cleansing, so it will wash all the hidden food and bacteria from your mouth. It has whitening properties. Just make sure not to add too much lemon because it can erode your enamel if not used properly.

Recipe makes: One small bottle of mouthwash

Ingredients:
Juice of 2 freshly squeezed lemons1/2 tablespoon of ground cinnamon1/2 or 1 teaspoon baking soda (more whitening properties)1 1/2 teaspoon of honey1 cup of warm water (to melt the honey)A clean bottle or jar with a lidMix together all of the ingredients and give it a shake. Swish or gargle 1-2 tablespoons of the mouthwash for a minute after brushing your teeth or whenever you want to freshen your breath. Don't use the mouthwash more than once to twice a day (the lemon is very acidic).Enjoy your fresh breath and clean mouth and take pride in your fantastic homemade mouthwash!

2015-01-08T08:22:00.003+05:30

Dengue

The alarming rise in cases of dengue across cities in the country has become an increasing cause of worry. It is now more important than ever to be aware of the risk factors, and protect yourself. Prevention in this case, is truly better than cure.

What is dengue?
Dengue is a disease caused by a family of viruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes. Dengue cannot be spread directly from person to person, i.e., is not contagious. A person can only become infected by the bite of a mosquito that is infected with the dengue virus. It is important to note that these mosquitoes bite during the daytime as well as nighttime.

Symptoms
Dengue usually begins with chills, headache, pain while moving the eyes, and backache. Persistent high fever is characteristic of dengue. Other symptoms to watch out for are exhaustion, backache, joint pains, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and rash.

Treatment
Because dengue is caused by a virus, there is no specific treatment for it; treatment of dengue is typically concerned only with the relief of symptoms. People who show the symptoms mentioned above should immediately consult a physician. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, stay hydrated, and get as much rest as possible.

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)
DHF is a more severe form of dengue and can be fatal if untreated. It tends to affect children under the age of ten, and causes abdominal pain, hemorrhage (bleeding), and circulatory collapse (shock).

Prevention
There is no vaccine to prevent dengue. Prevention of dengue requires eradication of the mosquitoes that carry this virus. This means high standards of hygiene and sanitation. Avoid areas littered with garbage. All containers of stationary water (like drums or buckets) should be covered or discarded, including flower vases and pets' feeding bowls. If your area is infested with mosquitoes, wear long sleeves, use mosquito repellants and fumigate if necessary.

10 Receips for Healthy Natural Smoothies

2015-01-06T16:13:00.001+05:30

10 Recipes for Healthy Natural Smoothies

Greasy skin? Weak immune system? Constant fatigue? We've gathered some great natural recipes that can fix all of that, in a delicious way. So get your blenders out, start drinking and living a healthier life.

The best juice to fight skin aging:

Stress, free radicals, lack of sleep and a lack of physical activity can greatly damage and age your skin. To help your skin deal with all of this, it's recommended to drink this fruit and vegetable smoothie that's full of antioxidants.

Ingredients:

1.5 Cups of water, milk or orange juice.
1 Cup of blueberries.
1/2 A cup of strawberries.
1 Large cabbage leaf.
1/2 Medium sized beetroot.

The best juice to help your digestion:

One of the best fruits to help your digestion is papaya. It is full of papain, an enzyme that helps your stomach with protein digestion. Along with the calming properties of ginger and the body cleaning aid provided by the cabbage, this is a great drink after a big meal.

Ingredients:

1/2 Small papaya.
3 Cabbage leaves.
A ginger piece about the size of a thumb.
1 Slice of lemon.

The best energy juice:

Instead of drinking only coffee, try this rich - high on chlorophyll - green juice. It aids the oxygen transfer to your brain and, through the blood stream, to the rest of your body, which aids their function for longer periods of time.

Ingredients:

1 Large cucumber.
8 Celery stalks.
A few cabbage, spinach and parsley leaves.
1/4 Lemon.
A ginger piece about the size of a fingernail.

The best juice to fight a cold:

Ginger is also known for being a natural cure for the cold and the flu. Hot peppers help the body get rid of free radicals and lemons are high on vitamin C that helps the immune system.

Ingredients:

A ginger piece the size of a thumb.
Juice from 1 lemon.
1 Pinch of red hot pepper.

The best juice for healthy looking skin:

This juice can help clean your body from toxins and it will result in a younger looking skin that feels great. With 90% water, and high levels of minerals, cucumbers are just the thing for the job and are known to be beneficial to the skin.

Ingredients:

2 Cucumbers.
2 Slices of apple.

The best juice to strengthen your immune system:

Broccoli is a good source for vitamin C and has many uses for the body including helping it produce white blood cells, which are what the body uses to fight infection and bacteria. Garlic is high on sulfur which does a similar job and makes for a stronger immune system.

Ingredients:

1 Small beetroot.
3 Carrots.
8 Celery stalks.
1 Full broccoli stalk.
2 Garlic cloves.

The best juice for Healthy Marrid Life:

Fruits and vegetables can increase the production of hormones in the body, make you more relaxed and improve your blood flow. This special combinatoin will actually help your lovelife and stamina.

Ingredients:

2 Cups of coconut water.
2 Stalks of celery.
1/2 Medium banana.
1/2 Medium avocado.
3 Figs.
A pinch of basil and ginger.

The best juice to treat dehydration:

Coconut juice contains electrolytes similar to those that balance our blood pressure. It has been used by doctors to treat ilneses like cholera and dysentery.

Crack open a young, green coconut and drink the insides or buy coconut juice at your local store.

The best juice for stress relief:

Spinach is high on an amino acid called tryptophan that helps you sleep better and improve your mood. An added bonus is a shot of magnesium that relaxes your muscles and nerve system.

Ingredients:

2 Big handfuls of spinach.
3-4 Full broccoli stalks.
1 Large carrot.

The best juice for sweet craving cancelation:

This apple, cinnamon and celery juice helps regulate your blood sugar levels and provides you with essential minerals. With your blood sugar balanced your sweet cravings should fade away, perfect if you're on a diet.

Ingredients:
2 Apples of any color.
8 Celery stalks.
A dash of cinnamon.

Astrologer Vighnesh Chennai
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Side Effects of Bitter Gourd / Karela

2014-12-31T16:34:00.001+05:30

6 Side Effects Of Bitter Gourd

We all know why we hate bitter gourds. Born in an era whose taste buds are habituated only to junk and fast foods, it isn’t much of a surprise that such grossly tasting veggies couldn’t become our favourites.

Your mother, just like my mother, would have advised you umpteen times about the greatness of bitter gourds. And you, just like I, wouldn’t have paid any heed. Maybe we were being ignorant. Or maybe we weren’t.

Now I will come to the actual point. Bitter gourd, also known as karela or bitter melon, is just like any other food given to us by nature and has its own set of side effects.

Want to know what are the side effects of bitter gourd? I bet you do.3

1. Can Stimulate Miscarriage:

Bitter gourds, if taken in excessive quantities can turn out to be a nightmare for pregnant women. Bitter gourds are notorious for causing emmenagogue (increase of menstrual flow) and abortifacient effects.

Bitter gourds can also trigger contractions. And for lactating women, it is best to avoid bitter gourd. This is because though there isn’t any scientific backing which says bitter gourds are bad for lactating women, its adverse effects on pregnant women might have similar effects on lactating women.

2. Drug Interactions:

It is actually shocking to know vegetables like bitter gourd which are known for their healing properties, might even come in the way of drugs. But this is the fact. Combining bitter gourds with standard drugs can reduce blood sugar levels steeply. This might possibly lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Hence diabetic patients who are under medication should consult their doctors before consuming bitter gourds.

3. Infertility:

In case you are planning your pregnancy, stay away from bitter gourds as much as possible. The seeds of bitter gourd contain momorcharin, which was shown to cause anti-fertility effects in female mice. Hence be aware of this dangerous side effect of bitter gourd.

So seeking pregnancy? Bitter gourds – highly NOT recommended.

4. Bitter Gourds For Your Children? Think Again:

This might come as good news for your kids. But this is not a random statement produced out of thin air. It has been reported that red arils (the covering on the seeds) might be toxic to children. Theymight cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

So if your child is allergic to bitter gourds, it is better to avoid giving them the vegetable.

5. Hypoglycaemic Coma:

Hypoglycaemic coma is a condition of coma which is caused due to excessive doses of injected insulin. This might lead to severe decrease in blood sugar levels. There are case reports which suggest the onset of hypoglycaemic coma and the start of atrial fibrillation (abnormal heart rhythm) with the intake of bitter gourds.

6. Might Affect The Liver:

You might wonder what the connection is between liver and bitter gourd. Though this might appear a bit illogical, evidence exists. Intake of bitter gourds for extended periods of time to control diabetes might actually induce liver inflammation.

Bitter gourds don’t directly damage the liver. Long term use of bitter gourds can elevate liver enzymes and result in a condition called atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Some of the points, or maybe all of these side effects of bitter gourd sound new and unbelievable to you. It’s natural. Though it is extremely beneficial in a lot of ways, its over consumption can lead to complications.

So the next time your mother asks you to eat bitter gourds, don’t show her this post and justify your hatred for the vegetable. Eat it instead. Because moderate consumption of anything is not going to be harmful!

Hope you liked this article highlighting the bitter gourd/karela side effects! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comment section given below:

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