AYURVEDIC SECRETS FOR DIGESTION

1. Eat only when you’re hungry.

Eating when you are not hungry makes you feel bloated and uncomfortable. It will also make you gain weight. Your digestive enzymes are strong enough to break down your food only when your stomach is truly empty.

You can try the difference between eating when you are really hungry and eating out of habit. There is a huge difference and you can experience it yourself on how you feel. Make sure you take three to four hours between meals. This is the time it takes to fully absorb your food.

2. Eat in calm

Make sure you eat in a calm, seated environment and at a moderate pace. Many of us suck down a green juice while racing to catch the subway to work or yoga. But there will be a huge difference in your digestive system when you take just a few minutes more for your juice. When we actually sit down to eat, we focus on chewing the food thoroughly and also on the amount of food we are putting into our bellies. The problem with walking and eating is that, the people will only chew a couple of bites before swallowing. This will cause the belly to do more work than teeth.

3. Take in the smells, tastes, and textures of your meal.

When you pay attention to the sensory details of your food your body also does the same.if you are not actively smelling and appreciating the food you are eating that will affect your digestion so badly. take time to soak in the smells, texture and tastes your stomach will really feel fuller after a meal. You can also spend the rest of the day a whole lot more satisfied.

4. Eat freshly-cooked foods.

You won't feel fresh after eating a food if your food isn’t fresh. That's because it has lost its life force which can leave you feeling tired and sluggish. So spend a few extra minutes whipping up something new instead of eating the leftovers.

5. Sip warm water throughout the day, and at meals.

It is easier for food to pass through the digestive system when you are hydrated.  You will feel fuller, faster.  While drinking water make sure you drink warm water because it is actually pretty challenging to digest.  Your body will take about 30 minutes to digest warm water and one hour to digest cold water because the body has to work overtime to heat up colder water before absorbing it.

6. Relax after meals

After meals give yourself a few minutes to relax, breathe, or take a gentle walk. Most of us pop our dishes in the sink and are out the door before we have finished our last bite. Making it so quick after the food will hinder the body’s ability to absorb food. This will also halt the blood flow in the stomach and decreases circulation. So don't drive back into work right after the second you are done with your meals.

7. Eat your biggest meal at lunch.

The Ayurvedic principle is that when the sun is at its highest point of the day, the digestive fire is strongest. We are a reflection of what is happening in nature. So eat your biggest meal at lunch and give your body plenty of time to fully digest before going to bed. That is the time when the digestive system effectively shuts down.  

8. Drink ginger tea.

Ginger tea is good to have after a heavier meal. It helps to burn the sluggishness caused by rich food. But just don't drink it too much because ginger can be a little too fiery for anyone with acid indigestion. Just try slowly sipping a weakly brewed version right after you eat.

9. Unplug while you eat.

It is hard for any of us to disconnect Tv shows or checking facebook updates during meal time.  This will engage the nervous system which might lead physical digestion to shut down.

Reference: www.ayurvedaschool.in

Healthy Snack Ideas for Elderly

It is important to have healthy snacking for seniors to help address ageing health issues. The right snack can improve conditions like diabetes and arthritis, while the wrong snacks can worsen them.

It is much difficult to provide healthy snack for seniors because they face unique diet challenges that can result in malnutrition. They also might face issues like chewing or swallowing. They might lose certain senses like smell, taste, thirst or hunger. They might also experience gastrointestinal issues. Malnutrition will lead to conditions like frailty syndrome, muscle weakness and osteoporosis.

Just like healthy snack ideas for seniors, there are also unhealthy snack choices. These choices will cause your loved one to experience more health issues and to feel more pain. I am listing a few things that you should stay away from.

You should avoid prepackaged snacks because they contain large amount of salt, sugar and synthetic additives.

• Avoid snacks containing high saturated fats and salt as they worsen/lead to heart conditions.
• Sugary desserts and pastries should be avoided  as they worsen/ lead to diabetes.

You can provide some healthy snacks to seniors which they will love and will get the nutrition they need.

Nuts and Seeds

A great alternative to unhealthy crunchy options like chips is nuts and seeds. They will get protein and healthy facts by satisfying that urge to eat something crunchy.

Pre Cut Veggies

You will get all the needed nutrients from the vegetables. Try cutting up broccoli, carrots and cucumbers or purchase grape tomatoes or baby carrots. They are colourful and stimulating to the senses which is important for seniors.

Hard-Boiled Eggs & Deviled Eggs

This is another great source of protein which makes a convenient, satisfying snack.

Green Tea

Green tea have the potential to fight cancer and heart disease, burn fat, lower cholesterol, prevent diabetes, burn fat and stave off dementia.

Yogurt

This provides much needed calcium for bone health and also a convenient easy to eat snack.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is actually considered to be healthy. This is packed with antioxidants which provides serotonin, which makes people feel happy and excited.  

Cheese

Cheese is a filling snack that provides protein and is also an easy snack. This helps lessen frailty syndrome by serving repair cells and tissues and also produce red blood cells that carry oxygen and antibodies that fight disease.

Fresh Fruit

As a result of reduced activity seniors often experience constipation, and they easily become dehydrated because they often lose their sense of thirst. Fruit is a great solution for all these issues as it provides a healthy dose of fiber and contains natural hydrating juices. It is also a natural way to satisfy a sweet tooth plus it provides antioxidants.

Homemade Granola

Mix up some nuts, seeds and oats with real maple syrup and bake. It is delicious and healthy. You can either eat it alone or add some milk or almond milk to create a cereal. But make sure you make it yourself at home because you have a control over what you put in it.

Raisins & Prunes

This provides fiber that assists with constipation and digestion. They are also a chewy treat that helps fight bacteria that leads to gum disease and cavities.

Smoothies

You can try blending Greek yogurt, flaxseed meal, spinach or kale, frozen fruit, chia seeds and water for a nutrient-dense yet delicious treat.This can be ideal for seniors because they don’t have to involve in any chewing and they are an easy way to pack in important nutrients.

You can use this list of healthy snack idea for seniors to make a difference on how healthy they can be and how they feel. You can also create your own healthy snack idea list that you can add to overtime when you determine what works and what doesn't. Now you really don't have to as hard while providing healthy snacks for elderly.

Dont Miss the India's greatest Elephant festival:The Pooram

Location: Vadakkumnatha Temple, Thrissur, India

Dates: held in (April or May) the Malayalam month of Medam

Level of participation:

Watch big fireworks and big elephants

Thrissur city is the Kerala’s festival hotspot and pooram is the festival that outrank all others.

It was introduces as a spectacle around 200 years ago. It is a celebration bringing together Hindus, Muslims and Christians, though it's mostly about the elephants.

In this parade, two teams each of 15 beautifully caparisoned elephants face off across the temple grounds. On each elephant's back there will be two men, one holding a parasol taller than the elephant while the other person waves a yak-tail fan like a feather boa.

The parasols are exchanged among the men as the pandimelam (temple orchestra) plays.

The drums continue to bang through the day, and there is a pyrotechnic display of elephantine proportions at the night. There will also be fireworks for up to four hours.

Essentials:

The festivities starts at 6 am and will be there for about 36 hours. This can be a long day in the temple grounds so bank some sleep if you can.

Local attractions:

The Vadakkumnathan Temple is at the centre of Thrissur. This temple is one of the oldest in kerala. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple but the mound surrounding the temple has sweeping metropolis views.

More info: Visitor Kerala (www.visitorkerala.com)

Must-ask questions for your new home builder

Its an exciting event when you think about moving into a brand new home. No matter if you are a repeat buyer or a first time buyer, you can ask the following questions to get important clues as to if your new home builder of choice is worth the commitment.

How long have you been in business?

Building durable homes with high-quality according to your unique lifestyle needs is a hard-earned skill built up through time and experience. Do a research on how long they have been in the business and most importantly how successfully. This is very important  before committing to a home builder.

What types of floor plans do you build?

You will get more options to determine what is important to you as you get a more experienced builder with varying styles. If you are not able to find a floor plan you are looking at the community you are eyeing, ask if it is built at a nearby neighbourhood. You may discover a better fit for your lifestyle and your commute.

May I select from a variety of design options, such as kitchen cabinetry or tile styles?

Find out what level of personalization is offered. Don’t assume all builders will provide the same choices. Actually they don’t. Only a good home builder is aware of buyers quality standard features desiring the freedom to personalize the key items.

How do you cater to local homebuyers?

No matter if the builder’s headquarters are 2000 miles away, they should have a knowledge of your local area.

Even if the builder’s headquarters are 2,000 miles away, your builder should have knowledge of your local area. This question determines whether they are a  stable and interested builder in the region.

Do you offer quick move-in and to-be-built homes?

Seek out a builder who gives an attractive range of options that works with your moving timeline.

Do you offer energy-efficient features?

Energy-efficiency is one of the biggest potential cost-saver in homeownership. It is also one of the great perks of buying new. It is important to investigate a builder’s energy-efficient offering before making a commitment.

What is your warranty policy?

Find out if the builder offers a warranty. This is one sure way to know if a builder is truly dedicated to your satisfaction.

What does your post-closing follow-up entail?

It’s also important to know what services are available after you close, as with the builder’s warranty. For example, When you receive follow-up visits after you’ve moved in ensures you a long-term satisfaction.

How long will it take to build my new home?

This question is probably one of the first you will ask if you have a certain move-in date in mind. Consider the advantages of pre-constructed homes if you are on a short timeline. And if you have a flexible time, building from the ground up by selecting a floor plan and homesite is a wonderful option. According to the season, region and size of your home the estimated build time will vary.

Do you offer services besides homebuilding, such as financing or insurance?

Some builders provide a comprehensive one-stop shopping experience by offering more than just the physical house. Don't forget to ask about the financial services offered such as through an affiliate or subsidiary.

Is there a clear channel of communication for emergency or warranty questions, after I move in?

To assure that you are in good hands, you need to choose a builder that maintains a continuous relationship with customers. Make sure that there is a phone number or email address dedicating to addressing questions and concerns, if you aren’t provided with the name of a specific contact.

When you gather a pertinent information at the outset, this will help you to establish a fair relationship with a trusted builder. Enjoy the homebuying process for what it should be by using these tips.

50 Packing Essentials to Survive a Vacation Trip

Your might be really excited when you plan for a vacation trip but that excitement can sometimes be slightly dimmed when you think about the difficulty of what to pack. On one side you might want to travel light but on the other side you don't feel like missing any items behind. Whatever may be your trip, whether you are planning across state or across continent, here is a vacation packing list of 50 essential items that you need to take with you.     

1. Camera: To memorize that delighted look on your face when you reach your favorite destination you will need to take some photos.
2. First Aid Kit: First aid kit will come in handy than you think when you are in a trouble. There are several chances to get injured while you are on a trip.
3. Music/ Playlist: Ensure that you have at least 30 playlist for the trip. Your mood is likely to change especially when you get into unlucky situations. You can also use this opportunity to learn the name of new artists.
4. Sunglasses: Definitely a must to protect your eyes from those harmful UV rays.
5. Snacks/Food: When you are constantly eating out your wallets might get empty sooner than you think. You might have to eat at different restaurants while you are on a road trip. You can always do your wallet and health a favour by helping yourself carrying your own snacks/food.
6. National Identification card or Driver’s License: These will be very useful wherever you go to have a identity card handy. It will confirm that you are indeed a homosapien who pays bills and taxes.
7. Map: You feel like a real explorer when you navigate your destinations with a real map.
8. Phone: You can update your friends about the destination you are exploring. You can also use your favorite music playlist while updating your instagram feed from the road.
9. Sunscreen: Don't forget to lather up on sunscreen periodically throughout the trip to avoid tanning up your skin and look fresh throughout the trip in your photos.
10. Binoculars: Don't miss any moment when you will have to whip out your binoculars to get a clear look at a distant stuff.
11. Safety Pins: To clasp the zippers of your day packs together, to mend some of your wardrobe malfunctions this will be really helpful.
12. Pocket Knife: You will have a number of times that you will have to use a pocket knife when you are travelling.
13. Reading Materials: A magazine or a book will help you pass time especially if you like reading.
14. Good Walking Shoes:This might sound like a normal road trip gear but you will seriously need them especially if you find yourself wandering in grounds and when you need to walk for a long distance where flip- flops or flimsy shoes just won't do.
15. Ziploc Bags: This will be really helpful to protect some of your delicate clothing from snags and to prevent sandy beachwear from soiling your items.
16. Pocket tissue paper/ wet tissues: This will be very handy, you will never have a clue when you might need these in a road trip.
17. Travel Mug: A coffee-stained mug is unlikely target for thieves to stash transport sunglasses and other delicate souvenirs in your hotel room.
18. GPS: If you find yourself in a no man's land with no internet or network coverage, this GPS will help you.
19. Games and activity sets: A set of cards or some other game sets can breakup the monotony of the trip.
20. Multi socket Power strip: With this you can charge most of your electronics at a go. This will help you in plugging all your electronics in the same place. There is less chance that you will leave your things behind.
21. Mosquito Spray: This can keep the bugs away!
22. Sleeping Gear:  You will find number of places where you can sleep under the stars if you feel not to waste your money staying in a hotel every night. If you do need to stay in a hotel, I would suggest booking a room in advance, or you can book home stays as well where you can feel staying at home. You can save some money.
23. Hand Sanitizers: You will have a plenty amount of dirt in your hands while you are travelling
24. Good Friends: To make a road trip worth you will need to have a bunch of good friends.
25. Portable Power Device: Take a portable charger along with you to keep your phone and tablets charged at your convenience. Don't depend on rest stops and hotels to recharge your electronics.
26. Water: Don't think about soda or juice, they will make your thirst worse. You have to stay hydrated throughout the trip.
27. Hygiene Bag: A hygiene bag with towelettes and deodorant will help to cover those unfriendly stenches of sweat. Eco- friendly shampoo and shower is good if you get a chance to stumble upon a lake or outdoor shower.
28. Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or a rain gear will be useful when you visit misty destinations as well.
29. Comfortable items: To wear comfortable clothes during your time in car will make you feel relaxed about the trip. At the same time you should also bring a sweater or a blanket in case you travel through mountain areas at night.
30. Tote Bag: You can use this to cordon off dirty laundry items in your suitcase to prevent the freshness of the unused items.
31. Underwear: Try to bring more of them (even 10 more pairs) than you would practically need.
32. Positive Attitude: Anything can come up on your way when you are on a trip. You just need to have a positive attitude that time keeping in mind that you will be back home soon on your comfortable touch.
33. Plan B: Sometimes a road trip may not work out in spite of being well prepared. That time you can use your plan B, an alternative vacation plan to avoid crying out loud if things don't go as planned.

Your vacation packing list plays an important role in the outcome of your road trip. Hope this list will help you to make your packing easier. Remember to be well prepared. Happy travels!

Travel Tip: Smart Pack Your Suitcase

Traveling is awesome but packing is STRESSFUL! But doing one thing differently this time made it a little LESS stressful and that was finding a way to pack a suitcase that was so much easier than I’ve been doing it in the past. Many people asked me about this lately so I thought this might be a good time to see what I could come up with!

Packing small clothing items like underwear, camisoles, nylons, scarves, socks, slips etc in the bottom of the bag was the first thing I did. There you will find ridges made with extendable metal handles of the bag where you can store these small clothings in between them. The idea of taking advantage of this space never occurred to me before and I was really surprised at how many little things that I was able to fit in there!

Next step is to start rolling your clothes. This is where I was doing it all wrong. What I heard a long time ago was that FOLDING your clothes was the way to go…but after trying the ROLLING technique, I was able to pack at LEAST twice as much stuff! Honest! And what I found was that rolling your clothes takes up less space than folding them. But be sure of keeping the piece of clothing smooth as you roll it up. Otherwise, you might end up with wrinkles which are annoying.This way it will be easier to see what you have packed also you can get rid of that lines from folding your clothes.

The key is to pack your clothing items by rolling it instead of folding. Then just keep layering! I overpacked for this trip as I always do  and I just couldn’t believe how much space I had for keeping my clothes and I was able to keeping adding more with enough room to spare! I rolled in 14 pair of kurtas and 9 pair of leggings which will be perfect for a 2 week trip.  

After you are doing layering your clothing, now it’s time for your footwear. As many girls I am also a shoe fashionista (I like comfort and  style in that department and I have a lot of collections), so I just packed some animal print flats, a pair of sandals, and a bathroom slippers. I easily could have fit a few more pair. You can keep theses inside the “lid” of the suitcase. It’s also a good idea to wrap each shoe in a plastic bag. This will help you from getting your clothes dirty, and also you can re-use the plastic bags each time you travel.

Depending on what you will be doing at your travel destination, you might also wanted to add one or two small (preferably flat) handbags. I actually chose not to but then felt really sorry after that when I got to NYC. Lesson learned.

My makeup, my chargers, my mouse, my electronic cords, etc. I put inside the outside cover of the bag.

Now that I know how to efficiently pack this bag, traveling just got a whole lot nicer…and at least a little less stressful. You can also try this way of packing to get more space in your suitcase and carrying just one instead of two. Enjoy travelling and visiting a lot of places with just one suitcase!

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