Comfort Food In Quarantine-Unwanted Weight Gain

Whether you have been in quarantine due to suspected Covid-19 infection or y0u decided to self-quarantine at your home, the chances of gaining weight is very high. It is due to inactivity, which is obvious as you have to remain within a defined area. Another major reason of gaining weight during lockdown and quarantine period is eating comfort food as and when you feel like.

What is Comfort food?

As the name clearly suggests, comfort food it a kind of food that you get easily or comfortably and is full of high calorie, high fat, high salt or sugar content to give you a kind of pleasure, relaxation and emotional elevation. As per Wiki, adults eat comfort food when they are under emotional stress. This type of food gives them instant gratification and reminds them of the security of childhood, provided by their parents.

A Key Contributor to Obesity In the US

As a major chunk of US population lives under various types of stress throughout the day, consumption of comfort food is very high. This is one of the major reasons of obesity, which is almost like an epidemic in the US. Similarly, during quarantine, people feel stressed due to fear of Coronavirus, whether they are infected or not. This triggers the temptation of eating comfort food for some gratification, which is achieved, but makes the person put on weight.

Quarantine 15

As per a Washington Post report, during quarantine, 37% of people gained more than a pound, while the average weight gain during quarantine month remained 0.21 pound. The report further confirms that similar trends were seen in other parts of the world as well. For example, the average weight gain in the United Kingdom was reported as 0.35 pounds, in China 0.55 pounds and in France, it was reported as 0.19 pounds.

Stress Eating?-Stop Now

Definition of stress-eating is self-explanatory. When you start eating due to any kind of stress, you are stress eating, as simple as that. However, its impact is not that simple. If the stress is persistent, then a hormone, Cortisol is released by your body. Cortisol increases your appetite, and you start overeating every now and then. The result; weight gain. Read details here . The sooner you stop overeating due to stress triggered by quarantine or any other reason, the better. Want to lower your stress during lockdown? Read what to do during lockdown.

How to stop stress eating during qurantine

Well, there are various triggers of emotional eating. However, during lockdowns, the most power trigger for stress eating is boredom. As those under quarantine have nothing to do, they start eating or overeating for some sense of gratification. The most effective way to overcome stress eating is to get busy with something you enjoy such as pursuing a hobby. Of course, there are limitation during quarantine, but you can explore many possibilities to do something creative or worthwhile during Covid-19 times.

Healthy Comfort Food

The least and probably the most important thing you can do during quarantine or lockdown is eat healthy comfort food. If you feel that comfort food cannot be healthy, then think again and take a look at 29 healthy comfort food recipes. You an also try Paleo Comfort food recipe given below.

Comfort Food-Dairy Free Recipes

Eating Habit Changer App

Making good use of apps for health or for changing eating habits, is highly recommended during lockdowns. Why not try Noom App that gives you a variety of healthy eating options. By using this app recommended food items you can change your eating habits for good.

Noom- The Last Weight Loss Program You’ll Ever Need

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Easy Yoga Poses for Belly Fat Reduction

Burn belly fat by trying easy yoga poses at home. Simply sitting cross-legged in different variations or spending two minutes on easy yoga can work wonders.

Those who are new to yoga may find it unbelievable that originally there were 8,4oo,000 yoga poses practised and taught by Lord Shiva. It was possible for Him, but not for humans, therefore 84 of them were chosen to be practical for humans. Out of those 84, many yogic practitioner believe that only 32 are good enough for overall health. This is a matter of debate, and we have no intention of getting into how many are good or enough. We’ll focus on practical and easy yoga poses that can be practised by anyone looking for belly fat reduction. Sounds good?

Easy yoga postures

Well, things are difficult before they become easy. The same goes for yoga postures. There are many yoga poses that can be practised by anyone, but you either don’t know them or simply ignore them as they seem to be easy or ineffective. Why not make them part of your daily activities so that you get the benefits without even realising or putting any extra effort? Frankly speaking, that is what used to happen with me inadvertently when I was in high school. Later I came to know that those postures that I tried for fun or just to relax were actually some of the most easy yoga postures for belly fat loss. As a result, I was relatively thin and more active than most of my classmates who were obese.

Natural Yoga

Without getting into the official or ancient definition of natural yoga, lets try to understand it literally. For example, breathing is almost a natural activity that happens without any effort from us. However, when the same breathing is done consciously following a tried and tested pattern, it becomes Pranayama. Similarly, some of the most natural postures, if practised regularly as part of our daily activities, help us burn belly fat naturally. They are actually yogic postures, but can be incorporated in our daily lives. And the best part is, you need not make extra time for them. All you need is just be mentally ready to make those slight changes in your routine while ensuring that you go about your regular activities.

Sitting Cross-legged

Sitting Cross-legged helps in melting fat from belly area

If you are not aware, then let me tell you that sitting on the floor is the most natural and relaxing posture. You’ll find it difficult only if you are obese beyond a certain level. In that case, obviously you cannot make it your routine to sit cross-legged every day. Others who can sit cross-legged can try watching TV in this posture. Just sit on the floor every day for at least half an hour while watching TV or doing any other activity. You will notice the difference in a few days. In fact, during traditional festivals in India, people even eat meals sitting on the floor, and it is quite acceptable and also considered auspicious.

Variation of Sitting on Floor for Belly Fat Reduction

Benefits of sitting on the floor

You can even buy a small low-height table to work on, so that you can sit in this posture for longer duration. Sometimes I don’t mind placing my laptop on the small table and work for hours sitting cross-legged on the floor. Believe me, this will not only improve your digestion, help you burn belly fat but also relieve knee joint pain and keep your spine healthy. There are a few variations or methods of sitting on floor, which are equally effective if you are looking to flatten your stomach easily. You can choose whichever postures suits you the best or change your positions as per your comfort level.

Half-Cobra Pose for Flat Belly

Half-Cobra Pose for Belly Fat Reduction

This is a simple posture which can be done by any one. However, what really matters is how long you can stay in this posture. If you cannot lift your head backward while placing your palm on the floor, then start with getting support from elbows or doing Half-Cobra Pose. Stretch your head backwards the way you normally do in full Bhujanganasa. Gradually, when your spine becomes slightly flexible in 15-20 days of performing this pose on elbows, you can place your palm and attain the actual Bhujangasana. Just perform the posture on elbows and try to stay in this pose for 2 minutes, 3 minutes or 5 minutes depending on your stamina. In fact, you can even read your phone messages or attend phone calls in this posture. This will make the activity more natural and effortless.

In half cobra pose, following activities can be done

  • Watching TV for up to half an hour every day
  • Light reading such as reading a small book, magazine or even newspaper
  • Phone messaging or even browsing on a laptop
  • Obese students can even make notes or do small writing assignments

To avoid any side-effect, ensure that You

  • Straighten your spine by lying flat for a few minutes before getting up if you have been in half-cobra pose for 10 minutes of more. You can even try savasan for better effect. However, that may take time.
  • Do not put extra pressure on your back. The moment it starts hurting, change your posture so that you feel relaxed.
  • Change your position smoothly without any jerky movement.
  • Do not try this posture immediately after meals.

Cat Cow Pose and Rabbit Pose in a Sequence

Cat-cow posture can be done immediately after waking up. Similarly you can perform rabbit posture for 30 seconds to 2 minutes every day immediately after waking up. These two minutes every day can work wonders for your health in general. The rabbit pose is effective for obtaining flat belly. All you need to do is develop the habit of doing these quick yoga postures every day. The results will be visible soon.

Rabbit Pose for Belly Fat Reduction

Sun Salutation-Surya Namaskar

Sun salutation is a set of 12 postures in a sequence. These postures work on every muscle of our body and help in weight loss, better digestion, mental peace and clarity. These postures essentially stretch all parts of our body, which is highly recommended for flexibility and overall fitness. As the name suggest, you have to salute the sun, therefore the best time to do this is early in the morning during sunrise.

Surya Namaskar-for Overall Health and Belly Fat Loss

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Belly Fat Burning-Food, Diet and Yoga

Burning belly fat is not as difficult as most people think. Make some changes in your food, diet and lifestyle and see the change. Flat stomach is achievable if you are ready to do what it takes.

Bulging belly or obesity in general is often the primary cause of many health style diseases that appear later in life. Why not start working proactively at the first sign of belly fat that usually starts appearing in late twenties or early thirties. Fortunately, we get many belly fat burning food, diet plans and yoga techniques easily available across the net. However, the catch is all burning stomach fat requires some discipline and determination. Whether you join a gym, like intermittent fasting or want to change your eating habits, you must be determined and ready for a change in your lifestyle.

Can Bulging Belly Be Reduced Naturally?

Yes, you can burn belly fat rather easily, if you are mentally ready to do what it takes. Don’t worry, I am not asking you to do calorie counting, follow strict diet restriction or something impractical. Essentially, stomach fat starts depositing due to least movement of muscles around your stomach. If you make sure that you move, stretch or shake your abdominal area at least twice a day, then belly fat will not start depositing. If you already have fat around your belly, then it may take some time, but reducing fat naturally involves incorporating some activities in your lifestyle so that your abdominal muscles get exercise without you realising it. How about using water to lose belly fat?

Stomach fat burning food

Noom- The Last Weight Loss Program You’ll Ever Need

I cannot stress the fact more that food plays an important role in making your obese, if you do not melt extra fat by physical activities. Also, there are many belly fat burning fat food, super food and even tailored diet plans to suit individual needs. As a general rule, green and leafy vegetables, fresh fruits and fiber rich food help you melt fat not just from your belly but from all over your body. Why not try some metabolic cooking for speedy effect?

Food for fat loss from belly area

Belly fat loss food
  • Beans: All types of beans are a great source of fiber, which are highly recommended as they help digestion, reduce inflammation and burn belly fat naturally.
  • Chiles: They must be included in your daily diet if you want to reduce the risk of obesity. Chilies require more calories, therefore layers of fat get oxidised, resulting in overall fat loss.
  • Fruit infused water: I have mentioned in my previous posts that water can be highly effective in melting fat and detoxification, if used correctly. Make sure that you drink enough water or use fruit infused water for added advantage. Also make sure that you add tomatoes in your diet.
  • Leafy and green vegetables: This is self-explanatory, and I need not repeat the benefits of fresh, leafy and fibrous food, which work wonders for fat loss. Broccoli, spinach, cucumber,cauliflower, peas, bottle-gourd, bitter gourd, okra and the list goes on.
  • Banana, avocado, citrus fruits and all types of berries must be included in your diet.
  • Seeds and Nuts: If you don’t eat pumpkin or sunflower seeds, then start now. They help a lot in burning belly fat. Also, eat all types of nuts (except cashew) if weight loss is on your mind.
  • Eggs: Not only do eggs boost your metabolism and help you remain full for longer duration, they also keep many health issues at bay such as diabetes. Those who eat eggs (1-2 every day, not more than that) have delayed diabetes or are less likely to have sugar problems than those who don’t eat eggs at all.

Belly Fat Exercise

Some of the best and most effective stomach fat reduction exercises are leg raise, side bends, curls and twists. Basically all types of exercise that put extra pressure or stretch on your stomach will burn your belly fat. Now, the question is which one suits you the best. For some, simple cat and cow postures immediately after waking up can work wonders. For others, slightly tough bends and twists may work fine.

Cycling for stomach fat reduction

What I find the most natural and easy exercise is cycling. I mean real cycling and not the exercise/stationary bike. Make sure that you choose a route that has all types of complexities such as uphill riding, downward tracks, tricky trails where you need strength as well and speed to maintain a balance. Simply riding 4-5 kilometres everyday will burn your belly fat. I understand that this type of route is not possible everywhere, but try your best to find one. If not possible, then even plain cycling is also much better and enjoyable than most stomach curls and twists.

Yoga-Melting Belly Fat Without any Equipment

No matter what your obesity or stomach fat level is, yoga or yogic postures will work for you. That is what makes yoga a favourite of all health conscious people. However, just like anything worth achieving requires some effort, yoga also demands some commitment from you. In fact, mental preparedness and positive attitude while performing yoga are more effective than the physical effort. You can perform yoga anywhere without any equipment. All you need is some open space and a mat, and you are good to go. For flattening stomach, you must start with deep breathing and various other asanas as demonstrated by Baba Ramdev.

Pashchimottanasana

My favourite yoga posture for belly fat reduction is paschimottanasana. Of course, I must admit that I can do is effortlessly because I have practised it a lot and now it is easy for me. As a beginner, it will be difficult for you, but do not be in a hurry, start and progress gradually. You’ll see results not just in the form of flat stomach but also in your overall health. All types of streching exercises are highly effective for overall health, and belly fat loss is just one of many benefits they offer.

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Are Obese and Asthmatic People Prone to Covid-19?

Presence of multiple health issues, such as diabetes, asthma, obesity and CVD in one person is called comorbidity. This complicates the prevention or treatment of Covid-19 or coronavirus. What is the solution?

By now if you are reading this post, then I can assume that you are aware of Covid-19 pandemic and its most common symptoms such as respiratory problems, dry cough, fever, loss of taste etc. The moment we talk about respiratory problems or dysfunction, we need not explain that obese people have higher resistance in airways, weak respiratory muscles and generally low lung volume, which weaken the first line of defense against Covid-19 or coronavirus.

Obesity and Coronavirus

In addition to dry cough and fever, people infected with Coronavirus usually develop pneumonia as well. Obese people often suffer from hypertension, high cholesterol level, diabetes, kidney and heart diseases. Obesity impedes diaphragm excursion and restricts ventilation, resulting in adverse effect on cardiovascular functions. All of these factors make one susceptible to all types of infections, coronavirus is an infection.

Fat Loss-Enhance Resistance to Infection

By losing weight, you can prepare to prevent yourself from the much-speculated second wave of Covid-19 sometime during the end of 2020. Though not a sure-shot formula for prevention of Covid-19, it will strengthen your ability to fight against the virus. Well, it has been noticed that overweight people understand the risks of being fat, but they cannot overcome food craving or change their eating habits. If you want to try something that make changing your diet less challenging or I’d say quite easy, then try Noom App.

Noom- The Last Weight Loss Program You’ll Ever Need

Diabetes and Covid-19

Though we do not have enough data to confirm it, initial studies indicate that high level of glucose in blood can be a kind of predictor of Covid-19. More research and reviews need to be done before it can be confirmed. However, I must say that diabetes in general weakens immune system and makes your body more susceptible to all types of infections. Therefore you might be in the high risk group if you are diabetic. It is often a general perception that reversing diabetes in not possible, but you can mange it well by making some simple change in your dieting habits and lifestyle in general.

How antibodies work?

Without getting into the details of the official definition of antibody, I’d like to explain it in layman’s terms. Antibody, as the name suggest, is something that works against any foreign body ( harmful viruses or bacteria). The structure of an antibody is such that it does not allow any foreign virus bacteria to bind together with the cells of human immune system. Simply speaking, they don’t allow the virus to multiply or spread in the body and get killed because they cannot survive without multiplying. As a result, the person does not get infected with that virus, because it is killed or neutralised a the entry-point itself.

Covid-19 Antibodies

Currently many research institutes are working on developing antibodies for coronavirus. Researchers at Utrecht University have identified fully human monoclonal antibody that prevents the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) virus from infecting cultured cells. Read full report here. Currently, plasma of treated or recovered Covid-19 patients is being considered for treatment of other patients. Sometimes it works, other times it fails. More research is required on this.

Asthma and Coronavirus

As some symptoms of coronavirus are similar to those any asthamatic patient often experiences, many people wonder if being asthmatic increases their risk of getting infected with coronavirus. There is no enough evidence to support this. As Covid-19 started from China, where asthma is relatively less common than in the west, we do not have enough published data about how asthma can make one more susceptible to Covid-19. However, experts suggest not to stop asthma medication unless advised by your medical practitioner.

What is Comorbidity?

It will not be out of context to talk about comorbidity when we are discussing obesity and coronavirus. When a person is suffering from more than one health issues, either interlinked or independent of the other, then the patient is called comorbid, and this situation is called comorbidity. For example, majority of obese people suffer from hypertension or cardiovascular diseases. In healthy people, body develops antibodies that fight against viral attack. People with comorbidity have compromised immune system, which means their antibodies are not strong enough to fight the virus. This complicates the whole situation and treatment becomes difficult and even impossible in many cases, such as Covid-19 cases in current scenario.

Anxiety and Stress

It goes without saying any type of health issue is a matter of concern, but when it a pandemic like Coronvirus, the anxiety level goes up causing stress and tension. The lockdown imposed in almost all corona-infected cities and countries, give rise to loneliness as we adopt the new normal lifestyle. This lifestyle will include social distancing as a norm to be continued until a vaccine or cure is found.

The New Normal after Covid-19 lockdown

Social distancing or wearing a mask is something humans are not made for. In fact, many renowned people including president Trump do not like wearing a mask. However, this is going to be the new normal lifestyle after Covid-19 lockdown is lifted. As experts believe that we’ll have to learn to live with Covoravirus until its cure or vaccine is found.

As a social animal, humans need to interact with each other at a much affectionate level than many other animals. Social distancing is against that norm, therefore can cause stress. It will not be out of context to mention that stress, tension and lack of sleep weaken your immune system, which can obviously make you more susceptible to coronavirus. The solution is simple, keep stress away as social distancing must be maintained in the current scenario. Do something that relieves your stress and helps you see the brighter side of life.

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Immunity Yoga to Fight Virus Naturally

Stretching, spinal twist, inverted yoga, deep breathing or doing Savansan correctly can boost you immunity. Read about immunity yoga.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, immunity booster foods and general immune system booster products have become highly popular as they help you fight virus naturally. It is true that prevention is better than cure (not applicable for Coronavirus as there is no cure at present. So the only way to keep yourself safe is prevention. What better way of prevention than using something natural such as Yoga? In view of the uncertainties of what immune system booster is best for you, why not give immunity yoga a try?

Ancient Yoga-Boosting Immunity Naturally

Practicing yoga is soothing, relaxing and spiritually uplifting, if done correctly and regularly. In the current context, when Covid-19 has spread its tentacles across the globe infecting more than 6 million people, it is highly recommended to practice, use and adapt whatever works well for you. From including immunity booster foods to your diet to practising immunity yoga regularly, you can do it all during lockdown as there is no lack of time, right? It works well for most people and is the most natural way to give your immune system a much-needed boost.

Deep Breathing-Pranayama for Immunity

First and foremost, the most vital function of our body, breathing has immense power to boost your immunity. However, the catch is that you must know how to harness its power. Yes, I am talking about deep breathing or conscious breathing at least once day, preferably early in the morning. That is part of Pranayama, which itself is a vast subject covering various methods and techniques to help you get the best possible health benefits from deep breathing. Boosting immunity is just one of the many benefits of deep breathing.

Twisting-Enhancing Flexibility of Parts That Can be Twisted

Not many people are aware that spinal flexibility is an indicator of how healthy you are. I have written about how spinal flexibility can be enhanced. Spinal twist can work wonders for your overall health not just for immunity. When you twist your spine, your digestion system gets stimulated, which helps in flushing out toxins. The overall result is, better digestion and strong immunity. And the best thing about spinal twist is that you can do it the first thing every morning, immediately after waking up. While still in bed, as soon as you sit up, twist your spine left and right twice or thrice. Do it regularly and notice the difference. In fact, this helps in weight loss as well. Ardha-Matyendrasana is the yogic posture that twists your spine and gives you many health benefits.

Stretching for Boosting Immunity

Simply stretching your body twice or thrice every day can help you boost your immunity. Again, I’d like to mention that spinal stretch works wonders . Paschimottanasana or forward bending positions stretch your back and improves blood flow to sinuses. This eases congestion, and gives your immune system a boost. While my favourite is paschimottanasana, you can choose any other yoga position that stretches your back or spine.

Inverted Yoga Postures

Our heart pumps blood to different parts of the body. While gravitation helps in carrying the blood to lower parts of our body, our heart has to work harder to pump blood to our upper parts, especially the head. In inverted position, this flow gets reversed as your legs are upwards and head is lower than heart. This helps in improving overall blood circulation in all parts of the body. Your head gets ample supply of blood and often clears various blockages due to less flow of blood. Your nervous system gets relaxed and kind of resets itself every time you perform an inverted position. This works in favour of your overall health and immunity. Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Sirsasan (Head Stand) are highly effective but must be done under expert supervision as they seem to be simple, but are not. Wrong posture can be counter-productive or harmful.

Savasan-Corpse Posture

As the name suggests and even the picture of someone performing Savasan, gives an impression that it is an easy posture, but it is not. You need to learn the technique of doing Savasan correctly to get the maximum possible benefits. This posture relaxes you completely and boosts your immunity, if you know how to do it without falling asleep.

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Covid-19 Lockdown Effect on Mental health- 5 Tips

Well, it is true that lockdown is an effective Coronavirus prevention measure, taken by many countries suffering from Covid-19. However, we cannot ignore its effect on the mental health of many whose nature of job involves interaction with people on a daily basis. Though I agree that saving lives is more important maintaining mental health, the purpose of this post is to help our readers understand their mental health, handle boredom effectively and combat the bad effects of Covid-19 lockdown successfully.

Mental Health

Approximately 10% people in the world suffer from various kinds of mental health issues. These mental health issues include anxiety, depression, eating disorder, bipolar disorder, substance use, alcohol related issues and more. The disorder get aggravated by uncertainties arising due to situations like pandemic such as Covid-19, loss of job, relationship matters and various other factors depending on the immediate environment of the person. In the current scenario we’ll focus only on mental issues arising out of coronavirus lockdown, isolation or quarantine period.

Flattening Coronavirus Curve-Rising Mental Health Issues

Flattening the coronavirus curve

Reports from Australia confirm that they have been able to flatten the coronavirus curve, but experts believe that a serious and longer curve is waiting to be visible in the form of psychological or mental health issues that have already started in a major chuck of population who followed lockdown guidelines or stayed in isolation or quarantine. As the effect is not visible immediately, we may overlook it but the day is not far when its effect will be noticeable and reported in its scary form. We must be ready to face another challenge of bringing back normalcy in the lives of those who seem to be fine but are deeply affected at mental level.

Mental Health In Lockdown-5 Quick Tips

Sound sleep

It goes without saying that sound sleep is highly important not just for relaxing properly but for overall mental and physical health. In fact, you can manage many of your stress and anxiety related issues just by maintaining good sleep hygiene and sleeping for at least 8 hours a day. Read more about how to handle lack of sleep.

share your Issues with someone

Sharing your issues with someone you can trust: Well I must say that you cannot confide in anyone or everyone, you must ensure that you develop strong bonding with a few friends or relatives that you can trust. This doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to develop good relationship and build trust. Discuss your health or other issues with someone you trust and lighten your mental burden. This will help you a lot.

Live in present, let bygone be gone

This is self-explanatory. Do not ponder over past events you cannot do anything about. However, if there are things you learnt from your past mistakes, then make sure that you don’t repeat them. The idea is to look at the positive side of everything. Simply thinking about unpleasant past events or imaginary negative future issues will worsen your mental health. Avoid negative thinking, learn it if you don’t know how look at the brighter side of life.

Do not watch Coronavirus update all day

No point in keeping yourself updated on the latest Covid-19 figures, unless it is your job requirement. This will do you more harm than good. Focus on doing something positive. Try many free online tutorials and courses.

Digital Detoxification

Stay away from electronic devices for one day every week if possible or every 15 day at least. You’ll notice the difference the first day itself. In fact, I use this technique even during normal days, not just during lockdown. It work wonders for me.

Digital Detoxification for Mental Health

Feeling Unproductive During Lockdown?

For some, working in pyjamas is like a dream coming true. Reports say that they are more productive during lockdown than they are working from office. However, I must say that their percentage is low. A majority of people working in pyjamas all day, feel less productive than they usually are on any other typical office day. They also feel unwell, which effects their mental health.

What is the solution? It is simple. Get dressed in something that make you feel great and comfy from inside or simply wear formal dress to feel as if you were working from office. There is no harm in it. In fact, it will improve your overall mood and well-being that will help you be more productive. Your inner feeling reflects on your face, and you can feel it by making this change. Try working in formal dress instead of in pyjamas, and feel more productive.

Feeling Irritable During Lockdown?

Well, I agree that we can justify being irritable due to being inside the home all day, but this is something we can control. Lockdown is for everyone, you are not alone. How you handle it or use it to your advantage depends on your skills. If you feel irritated quite often, then I’d suggest the tried and tested method of counting backwards. It really works.

You can also try any other distracting activity like listening to music if you like music or keeping yourself busy in learning something new. The trick is to set a goal and work towards achieving that. This seems to be simple but requires some practice. Write down your goal and make sure that you stick to it. You’ll notice that you are less irritable.

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Pros and Cons of Lockdown-More pros than cons

There are more pros of coronavirus lockdown than cons. Use this Covid-19 lockdown period to your advantage.

Well, I need not repeat that almost one third of inhabited world is under lockdown due to Covid-19 or coronavirus outbreak. It is considered the most effective way to prevent the deadly disease in the current scenario, as there is no cure or vaccine for it. However, does that mean the world has come to a standstill? Of course, all non-essential activities have come to a standstill,but there are many things we can do and enjoy the lockdown period in addition to keeping ourselves safe within our homes.

Should lockdown be extended?

That is something the government has to decide, depending on the overall situation of the country and state. As lockdown is a preventive measure and not a cure, any government cannot extend it beyond a limit because it will have serious economic impact on the state.

Is lockdown good?

In the past one month, we have seen some of the positive impacts of lockdown on our lives as well as the lives of animals. Rivers and ponds are cleaner and clearer than what we have ever seen. Many types of birds that had almost disappeared from urban skies are now easily visible in cities and towns under lockdown due to clear sky and no pollution.

Holy river Ganga before and during lockdown

Pros of lockdown

  • Less pollution, clear sky and fresh oxygen freely available
  • Almost no crime or criminal activities reported
  • Covid-19 spread can be curbed effectively
  • We get ample time to spend with our families
  • Those who can work from home don’t have to spend/waste time in traffic
  • Time to reconnect with old friends and colleagues
  • Time for hobbies that can be pursued at home such as painting, writing, paper-art, sketching etc. How about mastering Magic Tricks?
  • Exercise and eat healthy food
  • and more

Exercise, eat healthy and burn fat

This brings me to my favourite topic of staying healthy by natural methods. As mentioned above that you get fresh air during lockdown, why not develop the habit of waking up early and breath in fresh air which is not available during normal times? If you have some open space, then put it to the best use. Perform yoga or do any other type of exercise daily in the morning. You’ll notice the difference within a few days. In fact, this will help you develop good and healthy habits that you can continue even after lockdown is lifted. As fat eating healthy is concerned, you can rely on Noom App to choose what to eat and what to avoid.

Meditate or enjoy your me-time

During our hectic schedules, we hardly get time to introspect and spend some time with ourselves. Lockdown or even quarantine period is the perfect time to enjoy your me-time. If you are unable to concentrate or focus your mind, then try some online meditation guide. You need not be perfect or try to achieve the meditation state of those who practice it regularly or have achieved some degree of mastery. All you need is some time to think about yourself, it doesn’t matter how you achieve that.

Pets need your time too

If you have a pet,then what better time to spend with it than now. Use lockdown period to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Play with them and pamper them in whatever way you can,within the lockdown limitations. How about teaching your dog some new tricks such as stacking rings?

Teach Ring Stackers 336 x 280 - Animated

Experiment with cooking during lockdown

Whether your are a health freak or a foodie, this is the time to experiment with your cooking skills. As most cooking ingredients and eatables are available even during lockdown, cooking should not be a challenge. In fact,this time can be utilised to learn some new cooking methods such as metabolic cooking , which will teach you how and what to cook for overall better health, weight loss and cardiovascular health.

Fun with fashion

As you cannot buy new clothes or apparels during lockdown, why not try to look for something in your wardrobe, and give it a makeover? Not only will you be able to spend a lot of time experimenting with your fashion sense, you’ll also come up with something original and unique. Do not forget to give it a try.

Try Gardening to use Lockdown period

If you are fortunate enough to have a garden, some open space or even a balcony, you can try gardening and transform your open space. Gardening is a way to spend time with nature, which we must do even during normal times. It helps you appreciate the abundance of nature. If you are interested in cultivating plants, aquaculture in your open space or even combining both of them, the Aquaponics will definitely excite you. Give it a try and learn the secrets of organic farming with Aquaponics 4 you

Organic Farming and Aquaponics for you

Cons of Lockdown

  • Huge impact on economy, which can push it to recession
  • Heavy loss for business owners. Small businesses can even close down
  • Daily wagers are the hardest hit finding it difficult to make both ends meet.
  • Boredom for those staying at home.
  • No travel or outdoor activities.
  • Those suffering from other illnesses ( Not Covid-19) are ignored.
Unreported Truth About Covid-19 and Lockdowns

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Immunity Meaning-Does Honey Improve Immunity?

Honey can be a great immunity booster food if combined with lemon and ginger. Read about immunity meaning and how to boost it.

In recent times or Coronavirus times or Covid-19 times whatever you’d like to say, a lot has been told and advised about immunity. So, what exactly is immunity? We’ll take a look at immunity meaning and how to test if your immune system is in perfect shape. Additionally, we’ll try to explore some natural immunity booster foods and their health benefits.

Immunity meaning

No, it is not just about preventing coronavirus or Covid-19, there is more to it. Your body has a natural defense system that protects it from external bacterial attacks. To understand it better, just imagine you are walking and suddenly dusty wind blows, your eyes close instantly to protect them from the dust. Probably you also cover your face to stop dust from entering your eyes, nose and mouth. This happens instantly due to our in-built defense mechanism, which gets activated as soon any danger is anticipated.

Immune System

The same thing happens at cellular level as well. When an external harmful microorganism enters your body, your immune system swings into action and fights back to prevent that external or alien bacteria or virus. This is where the strength of your immune cells or protective layer comes into play. This is called your immunity. The stronger your immunity, the better your virus fighting capability. Common cold and cough, allergy or many common ailments are often a result of weak immune cells. Which means they try to fight virus that cause the ailment, but that virus overpowers the immune cells, and you fall sick. Medication boosts your immune system and kills the external virus, and you recover. In case of fighting coronavirus, currently we do not have effective and powerful medicines to kill it, therefore prevention is the only way.

What is herd immunity

It will not be out of context to mention that ‘herd immunity’ has become a topic of discussion during Covid-19 times. It is often cited as one solution to this pandemic that has ravaged many countries across the world. When a person is infected with some type of virus, his/her immune system develops antibodies to protect him/her from the same type of virus in future. This makes the person immune to that disease. When a large number of people are vaccinated or develop antibodies (meaning, they cannot be infected any more by that disease), the virus stops spreading. This is called herd immunity.

How herd immunity works

Look at it this way. For example, someone is infected with coronavirus, but everyone around him is immune to it, due to antibodies already present in their body. Obviously, coronavirus will not be able to infect anyone around him due to this type of immunity in the community, therefore the disease cannot spread further. Makes sense? Read more.

Immunity Test

In the current scenario i.e outbreak of Covid-19, immunity testing kits for corona-virus is the most talked about subject among health workers. At present, antibody test is studied and is said to be holding the clue to Covid -19 exposure. However, I’d again like to mention that immunity is not just for coronavirus prevention or cure, you must have strong immunity to prevent various other common ailments. The sooner you start eating immunity booster foods, the better.

Immunity Booster Foods

While there are many packaged immunity booster foods available on the market, we’ll focus on a few thing or food items that can boost your immunity naturally and effortlessly. Also these items are usually already available in our kitchen.

Ginger

Ginger health benefits

Being an important herb used in Ayurvedic medicines, the health benefits of ginger are many. From curing common cold and cough to boosting immunity if consumed regularly, ginger does it all. Here we’ll focus on its immune boosting capablities. Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. If you have any type of chronic inflammation, then your immune system will become weak gradually. Ginger helps you combat inflammation naturally, which results in strong immunity.

Ginger TEA

Ginger can be consumed in any form such as adding it to your vegetables or curries, drinking ginger tea regularly or even taking ginger shots if you wish. My favorite and I believe the easiest way to consume ginger regularly is to drink ginger tea.

Ginger WaTEr

Another important and easy way to reap the benefits of ginger is to consume it in the form of ginger water. Making ginger water at home is easy. However care should be taken that you do not consume more ginger water than what is recommended. Once a day is fine, but more than that can be counter-productive unless recommended by a certified medical professional.

Honey

Honey lemon water for weight loss and immunity

Honey is said to be a divine food as per Indian mythological scriptures. This is a nonperishable food item full of innumerable health benefits. Immunity boosting is just one of them. Honey and lemon water also helps you burn fat if you drink every morning on an empty stomach. Honey’s anti-bacterial properties make it a strong immunity booster food.

Honey lemon water for immunity

Lemon is full of Vitamin C, and when your combine it with honey, it becomes a tasty and powerful drink offering your many health benefits such as weight loss, better digestion, instant energy boost, wound healing, glowing skin and more. It goes without saying that presence of Vitamin C makes is a good immunity booster. Read detailed health benefits of Honey lemon water

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Beating boredom and healthy eating during Coronavirus lockdown

Coronavirus lockdown 2020 is good for prevention of the virus. At the same time, it is challenging for those who want to beat boredom. Learn tips for healthy eating habits during lockdown.

While coronavirus lockdown is keeping people indoors in all affected cities and countries across the world, it is important to keep ourselves safe and healthy while spending time at home. Though lockdown saves us from the deadly coronavirus, its side-effects can be seen in the form of other issues resulting from sedantary lifestyle and not physical activities. Most hard hit are the ones who are obese or overweight. We can definitely offset this effect by developing healthy eating habit during coronavirus lockdown, instead of craving for junk food, which in not available anyway.

Covid-19 Lockdown Hyderabad India

Beat the boredom and side-effects of lockdown

Boredom, irritation, stress, loneliness and even symptoms of depression in some cases are some of the visible side-effects of lockdown. However, I must say that these are the symptoms of those who have not explored their creativity, which can be in various fields. Painting, reading books, offering online tuition, working from home to make money are some of the best ways to beat the effects of lockdown. If your city is under lockdown, then now is the time to be creative and innovative using whatever resources you have at home.

Healthy eating for weight loss

What better time to try losing weight as you do not have the option of junk food or eating out. Experiment with homemade food and recipes that you have never tried before. You’ll be amazed to know that your kitchen already has many ingredients that can be used for your healthy eating plan. You can also take the help of Noom App, which offers thousands of food options to choose from. I’d like to remind you if you don’t know that Noom is not a food delivery services. It only gives you healthy eating options so that you can make an informed choice if weight loss is on your mind. Read Noom FAQs.

Click Here for Noom Pricing!

Healthy eating on a budget

The moment you hear about healthy eating, what comes naturally to mind is that it must be expensive. That is not true if know what are healthy alternatives to popular and expensive options. That is where Noom app comes in handy. In fact, Noom can often give you better, healthier and tastier food options than what you usually eat. Of course sometimes, healthy eating can be expensive in certain cases or circumstances, but often healthy eating on a budget is easier than we assume.

Use this guide for grocery shopping during lockdown-stay fit

Immunity booster plan

Coronavirus outbreak has made people aware of the importance of strong immunity. There are a lot of food items that can help you boost your immunity and become stronger. Though

Immunity booster recipes and food

Curd

Curds as immunity booster-can be eaten every day

While popping pills to boost your immunity is fine, you make curd or yogurt part of your daily meal. The live active culture in yogurt keeps your digestion in good shape and helps it keep your intestinal tract healthy and strong. In fact, eating approximately 200 grams of yogurt daily boosts your immunity as effectively as pill. This has been proven by researchers at the University of Vienna in Austria. Read the full report.

Ginger and Garlic

Ginger and garlic are used in almost all types of Indian vegetables and non-vegetable food items. These two herbs have many medicinal properties, due to which they are often found in various types of ayurvedic medicines. You can include them in your diet and enjoy their health benefits. Ginger can be added in tea or eaten raw, if you wish. Similarly one of two cloves of garlic either or slightly roasted, can work wonders for your overall immunity. In addition to being immunity boosters, these two herb offer many other health benefits such as good cardiovascular health.

Ginger-helps your fight virus

Dark Chocolate for Strong Immunity

This must be a good news for you if you are a chocolate lover. Cacao present in dark chocolate is known to have immunity boosting properties. This has also been proven by a research team at Loma Linda University’s School of Allied Health Professions. Read the full report

Give Yoga A Try

I must say that Yoga is favourite way to maintain good health. Here I’d like to remind you that Yoga is not just a set of asanas or postures, it is a way of life. It teaches you how to strike a perfect balance in your eating, working and sleeping habits. If you eat a balanced diet, work with full concentration and sleep properly, then your immunity will naturally be strong.

Yoga made easy if you are ready

Good sleep, Pranayam or simply deep breathing and nutritious food are highly recommended for boosting immunity naturally. As during lockdown, you cannot make an excuse of lack of time, this is the perfect time to make yoga part of your life no matter where you are. In fact, that is also one of the reasons that I like yoga. All you need is an open space and a yoga mat, and you are good to go. No equipment, no props, rigorous activities but still more beneficial than most other exercise plans.

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Coronavirus-Does Ayurveda offer Coronavirus cure or vaccine?

Lighting candles at 9 PM for 9 minutes to fight coronavirus collectively or using Ayurveda to boost immunity or both. Read about coronavirus vaccine development and possible cure related updates.

When Coronavirus seems to have gone of control of even superpowers like the US, the world sees a glimmer of hope from Ayurveda, which often has natural cure for many diseases. Can Ayurveda offer any effective Coronavirus cure in near future? Can Ayurvedic methods cure or prevent COVID-19? Lets take a look at COVID-19 and currently popular and effective treatment approach.

Coronavirus Outbreak Origin

When we look back at how Coronavirus outbreak spread from Wuhan in China to Europe and across the world, we conclude that Coronavirus came to humans from bats or pangolins. Though nothing is clear yet, this seems to be widely accepted reason or origin of Coronavirus in humans.

Coronavirus vaccine or cure-Need of the hour

Many Coronavirus Vaccines are in trial phase

While the medical professionals across the world are facing the biggest challenge of their lives, researchers, pharma companies and scientists are working in tandem to find a cure for coronavirus as fast as possible. A vaccine, a device or anything that can offset or neutralise the effect of coronavirus can prove to be a boon for the world. However, scientists and experts say that clinical trials, safety approvals and many other processes take at least 18 months before a vaccine is made available to general public. Currently there are 20 coronavirus vaccines are in development.

Potential Corona Vaccine-Tested on Mice

Researchers at University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have tested a vaccine on mice. Their findings are encouraging because their vaccine generates enough antibodies which can neutralize the virus. However, human clinical trials have not been done yet as US Food and Drug Administration approval is required for that. The team expects to start the trial in a few months as soon FDA approval is obtained. Read full report.

Coronavirus vaccine testing team at work

Human trial of Vaccine-Seattle

A few volunteers have come forward for experimental trial of the vaccine on them as this is what they believe is an opportunity to do something for the society in current Covid-19 outbreak situation. However, as mentioned above, the results of this vaccine can be seen not less than 18 months from now. Here is what the first volunteer, the study’s first participant of Seattle said.

” We all feel so helpless. This is an amazing opportunity for me to do something,” , Jennifer Haller, 43 “ Read the full report

Ayurvedic Remedy by Baba Ramdev is Misleading

In a promotional video by Patanjali, the Indian Guru claimed that Ashwagandha doesn’t allow blending of Corona protein with human protein. The efficacy of this remedy is questionable as Baba did not provide any evidence. Read the full report.

Corona Prevention by Boosting Immunity

As there is no cure for Coronavirus right now, Ayurvedic experts recommend that anything that boosts immunity can be used to prevent this virus as well. Just like wearing a mask or washing your hands quite often can protect you externally, immunity boosters can help you internally.

Boosting immunity is the only way right now to prevent coronavirus

Helpful Ayurvedic Tips by Baba Ramdev

Giloy and Tulsi concoction with black pepper, turmeric and ginger works wonders for boosting immunity and preventing all types of viruses. Though nothing can be said for sure about how effective it is for coronavirus (due to lack of data), there is no harm in using it. Read more about it

Popular Yoga Methods to Boost Immunity . Try these at home during lockdwon.

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