<p>Menstrual hygiene is still a taboo in India, with multifarious misconceptions and stigmas around it. Although there has been a visible change in the mindsets concerning menstrual hygiene and wellness, there’s still a long way to go. Even today, women in rural India can’t afford sanitary pads and resort to unhygienic materials which lead to increased infections and illnesses. There is also the equally important need to opt for sustainable and eco-friendly menstrual products.</p><p>Today on the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s take a look at brands that are dedicated and committed to organic and biodegradable feminine hygiene products promising women a safe and comfortable period.</p><h2>1. Period cramp relief oils</h2><p>Managing period pain or maintaining uterine health and fertility is an important area of women’s self-care regimes and Imbue Natural’s rosa period pain relief oil caters to just that. It’s a powerful blend of six gently pressed essential oils of cinnamon, yarrow, vetiver, patchouli, frankincense, and rose that prevents stress and anxiety caused during menstruation. It helps to relieve spasmodic and period pain resolves bloating and helps relax the inflamed regions of the body.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Rosa%20Period%20Pain%20Relief%20Oil_1653664192337.jpg"></figure><p>Aastha Sharma, co-founder at Imbue Natural explains, “It’s a cruelty-free, vegan product with natural ingredients that are backed by the science of Ayurveda that calms the olfactory senses and uplifts the mood with its fragrance. Camphor in the oil has a warming effect, which further relieves the spasmodic pain and congestion around the pubic region.” </p><p>Buy <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://imbuenatural.com/collections/all?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=search_ads_brand&utm_term=search_ads_brand&utm_content=search_ads_brand&gclid=CjwKCAjw7cGUBhA9EiwArBAvoj20hhS9KkoTgrjnw_gH3MntPZ_rbEHsGv_IlKnYCV2rEUrCr5DNnhoCGuwQAvD_BwE">here</a>.</p><h2>2. Reusable biodegradable sanitary pads</h2><p>For the #IBleedGreen campaign, Sanfe has come up with ultra-thin cloth pads made of banana fibres that are just like the disposable ones, except you wash and reuse these, therefore saving money and creating less waste. They are chemical-free, skin-friendly and environment friendly. Using these cloth pads can help reduce the thousands of tons of disposable sanitary waste that get dumped in our landfills every month and also reduces risks of infections, irritation and other serious health risks. <br>Harry Sehrawat, co-founder, Sanfe said, “There is an increased awareness today about intimate hygiene and the need to use the right menstrual product. There has been a slight shift in acceptance and buying patterns of menstrual hygiene products in rural areas, not just in urban areas. We started by focussing on the intimate, menstrual and toilet hygiene issues women have been facing silently. While a few years earlier it was all about using clean pads for one’s safety and hygiene, now there is a healthy dialogue exchange keeping in mind health, wellness and comfort as well as economic and environmental implications.”</p><p>Buy <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://sanfe.in/">here</a>.</p><h2>3. New-age menstrual pain relief device</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_WELME%20PRODUCT%20-%2004__1653664247893.jpg"></figure><p>Welme has recently launched India's first scientifically proven menstrual pain relief device that is easily wearable, convenient to carry and also fashionable. Preksha Chopra, Founder, Welme shares, “Menstruation being a taboo in our society, makes even discussions about such pain untouched. With Welme, we wish to de-stigmatize it and spread awareness about menstrual hygiene by helping menstruators get relief from period pain. Our focus is on making periods pain-free for all women. It is a non-invasive, chemical-free, safe and highly reliable device that can be carried anywhere hassle-free. The device is based on scientifically-tested and protected TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) therapy that sends soothing pulses through the nerve fibres that suppress pain signals and encourages the body to produce higher levels of natural pain-killing chemicals. All of it with utmost safety and care.”</p><p>Buy <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://mywelme.com/">here</a>.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_WELME%20PRODUCT%20-%2006__1653664285443.jpg"></figure><h2>4. One-of-its-kind intimate hygiene wipes for women</h2><p>Intimate hygiene wipes are as important during menstruation as any other regular day. Svish - a personal hygiene start-up has come up with India’s first clutch pack with ten wipes. It has a unique formulation with 100% natural extracts of aloe vera and cucumber that helps to prevent itching, odour, and irritation. It’s a 100% biodegradable, alcohol- and paraben-free, dermatologically tested formula for protection and comfort. The formulation also has ingredients such as niacinamide, witch hazel, neem and lemon oil also helps to reduce pain and gives comfort from rashes due to excessive sweats, friction and skin rub caused by sanitary pads.</p><p>Buy <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gosvish.com/products/svish-on-the-go-him-her-intimate-hygiene-wipes-for-men-women-80-pulls-oud-fragrance-cucumber-fragrance-with-natural-extracts-pack-of-8">here</a>.</p>

This Menstrual Hygiene Day, make your way to organic and biodegradable feminine hygiene products. 

On Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s look at brands that are dedicated and committed to organic and biodegradable feminine hygiene products. Read more on zeezest.com

4 New Age Menstrual Hygiene Products For Women | Zee Zest

4 New-Age Menstrual Hygiene Products For Comfortable Periods

Menstrual Hygiene

Menstrual Hygiene Day

Women’s Health

Wellness

Intimate Health

Turns out mom was right, it’s all your smartphone’s fault.

Excessive binge-watching, gaming and other tech activities could affect your mental and physical health. Here’s how to fix it. Read Zeezest.com

Why too much tech and gadget use is unhealthy and how to avoid it | Zee Zest

Why Your Screen Time Is Hurting You And How To Minimise It

&lt;p>Lockdown—up until March 2020, this word didn’t exist in our vocabulary. Cut to the present day, we stayed locked inside our homes for months, and we’re still trying to get used to the ‘new normal’ and navigate towards the ‘next normal’ post-COVID-19.&lt;/p>&lt;p>From anxiety related to our job and financial security to being isolated from family and friends, it’s been an extremely stressful time for the world by and large. As we find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic, there are serious concerns about physical health; however, it’s equally important to talk about mental health that is taking a hit due to emotional and psychological disturbances.&lt;/p>&lt;p>“Human beings are naturally social animals and enjoy being in the company of others. When this fundamental principle of being human is disturbed due to the new norms, it invariably calls for various mental imbalances,” explains Dr Arun Pillai, Wellness Director of Dharana at Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa, a health and wellness retreat in Lonavala.&lt;/p>&lt;p>“People who already have mental health issues are at risk of slipping into depression during such times. The psychological imbalance may eventually affect the physiology of the person and create an imbalance in hormones, the digestive system as well as the nervous system. So, ideally one should use the abundantly available commodity of time to gain the best out of it,” he adds&lt;/p>&lt;h2>Processing the ‘new normal’&lt;/h2>&lt;p>From salads and smoothies to workout routines, you know all the hacks and DIYs to detox your body. But have you ever spared a thought to detox your mental health? As we deal with the new normal, one of the biggest concerns has been mental health.&lt;/p>&lt;p>A generation that was anyway dependent on screens for everything—from hailing cabs to ordering groceries is now even more dependent on screens and technology. From work meetings to social gatherings, everything seems to be in front of a screen.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Contrary to making our lives convenient, increased screen time is linked with new problems that we are often unaware of. This new dependence on screens, coupled with factors like increased household chores, anxiety about the future and isolation has ultimately led to more of the dreaded ‘S’ word in our lives—stress.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Here’s how you can make healthy choices and commit to your mental and spiritual well-being during these trying times.&lt;/p>&lt;h2>What screen time actually does to you&lt;/h2>&lt;figure class="image image-style-align-left">&lt;img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Id-2528-Mental-Detox-inside_1616414855437.jpg">&lt;/figure>&lt;p>Dr Pillai explains how this virtual lifestyle wreaks havoc in our bodies. “It has been agreed upon by scientists and doctors alike that every disease and health issue has an underlying psychosomatic connection—which means your mind and body are related. When a person is occupied without human intervention (as is the case with virtual technology) it has consequences.”&lt;/p>&lt;p>So, as you’re cooped in your home and constantly glued to the screen, here’s what happens to your body:&lt;/p>&lt;p>“When you’re processing the digital information overload, it causes stress and strains the mind, which triggers cortisol—commonly referred to as the ‘stress hormone’. The body has its own threshold, but with smartphones, there’s no limit to usage. Thus, with overuse of technology, the production of cortisol and serotonin (the hormone that regulates our moods) is affected that further disrupts the hormonal balance,” explains Dr Pillai. &lt;/p>&lt;p>Hormonal disruptions eventually affect the circadian rhythm in the body leading to physical ailments. Hormonal imbalances also create an acidic environment in the body—making it a hotbed for disease.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Excessive use of gadgets also eventually causes a drop in physical activities, leading to lifestyle disorders like gaining excessive weight, improper meal timings and a greater disturbance to mental health.&lt;/p>&lt;p>And last but not the least, you’re simply whiling away time on your phone when you could be doing something more productive.&lt;/p>&lt;p>AlsoRead0&lt;/p>&lt;h2>Stress, the silent killer&lt;/h2>&lt;p>Mental health practitioners, the world over cannot stress enough (pun unintended) the effects of stress in our lives. Researches have shown that there is a direct connection between stress and lifestyle diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and even respiratory and gastrointestinal ailments. &lt;/p>&lt;p>“With India being identified as one of the depressed countries in the world, 6.5 per cent of the Indian population suffers from some form of serious mental disorder,” says Dr Shweta Sharma, Clinical Psychologist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Gurugram. Evidently, addressing mental health is the need of the hour keeping the current scenario in mind.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Stress also affects interpersonal relationships believes Himani Khanna, Co-Founder & Director, Continua Kids (a centre of Neurotherapy for uniquely-abled kids) who says, “Demanding work schedules build stress in individuals—stress to be able to execute the long task list of the day and the stress to perform. Continuous stress may lead to anxiety and sometimes depression of not living up to performance expectations. An irritable mood and challenging mental health will eventually reduce performance and affect relationships, both in the professional and personal spaces.”&lt;/p>&lt;h2>10 ways to start a digital detox&lt;/h2>&lt;figure class="image image-style-align-center">&lt;img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Id-2528-Mental-Detox-inside-2_1616478418576.jpg">&lt;/figure>&lt;p>While the world seems to have gone digital, shunning technology altogether is a remote possibility. However, it can be used smartly and in moderation.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Follow these 10 simple ways you can unplug, relax and recharge:&lt;/p>&lt;ol>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Be mindful of the amount of screen time you have in a day. Make sure your day is scheduled and you have a specific time to check emails. Keep the use of gadgets to a minimum of two hours before sleeping as they can overstimulate your mind and interfere with your sleep cycle.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">While we’re all working from home, you still need to make a conscious effort to pull yourself away from the screen. Apart from your mental health, long hours in front of the screen also have other implications such as computer vision syndrome, backache, bad posture and other orthopaedic issues. &lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Ayurveda prescribes two fundamental principles—dinacharya and ritucharya. The former refers to a daily routine while the latter to a seasonal routine. Follow ritucharya by starting your day early. This is not only important from a spiritual point of view but also from a functional perspective, as you get extra hours in the day. Additionally, you will also sleep and eat early, which keeps your body in tune with nature. Similarly, eat fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, to nourish your body and mind.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">It’s important to make time for physical exercise even though we’re bound indoors. Ideally, an hour’s physical activity is recommended for any body type; however now that we have more time, try engaging yourself with 1-2 hours of physical activity in order to be healthy, not just physically, but also psychologically.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Similarly, make a conscious effort to get back to the hobbies you grew up with, whether it is reading books or painting. You can also lookup interesting online courses for dance or other hobbies.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Be cognizant of your mental health. Take time out to meditate and practise breathing exercises. An hour of yoga and meditation every day is sure to keep you energised and at peace.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Spending time in nature keeps stress levels at a minimum. However, if you’re currently living in a city, you can try the simple yet therapeutic practice of gardening.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Use this precious time to bond with your family and spend quality time together. Even if there’s more housework, take it as an opportunity to spend time together. Distribute the workload; get kids involved in simple chores like filling water bottles, watering plants and helping with simple tasks in the kitchen.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Keep negative thoughts at bay by focusing on things you like—cooking your own food or making a call to an old friend.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;li>&lt;span style="color:hsl(0,0%,0%);">Last but not least, exercise moderation when it comes to technology.&lt;/span>&lt;/li>&lt;/ol>&lt;p>So, the next time you find yourself going into the rabbit hole of your smartphone, exercise restraint—you’re smarter than your smartphone! And as we battle the pandemic, remember we’re alone, but together and that eventually this too, shall pass.&lt;/p>

10 ways you can start a digital detox and stay positive.

Here's why a mental detox is as important as a physical detox. Plus, 10 ways you can start a digital detox and take care of yourself. Read Zeezest.com

10 ways to digital detox for good mental health | Zee Zest

Why A Mental Detox Is As Important As A Physical Detox

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Mental Health

Detox

A girl’s tale of wardrobing—the simple act of wearing clothes with tags intact and returning them after use. 

A girl’s tale of wardrobing—the simple act of wearing clothes with tags intact and returning them after use. Read full story on zeezest.com.

 A Fashion Addict Shares Her Experience Of Wardrobing | Fashion

Confessions Of A Shopaholic: Yes, I Return Clothes After Wearing Them, Tags Intact

&lt;p>“Three words, nine letters. Say it, and I'm yours: ADD-TO-CART!,” screamed every piece of clothing that I found even remotely fashionable online.  &lt;/p>&lt;p>Team Blair Waldorf (from &lt;i>Gossip Girl&lt;/i> for the uninitiated) knows exactly what I’m talking about. Arguably, my obsession with clothes, shoes, bags, and jewellery was just as intense as Blair’s with Chuck Bass. And what was common between our objects of obsession was the fact that they were toxic for our mental health and in my case—even my bank balance.&lt;/p>&lt;p>One remotely fashionable piece of clothing on the web and boom! It would be in my virtual shopping cart the very next second, ready to engulf my digital money in all its glory. Because better to buy that actually nugatory dress that I could totally rock at a completely made-up, non-existent occasion than to not have anything to wear to that imaginary event in case I got a last-minute invitation, or so, I said to myself.&lt;/p>&lt;h2>A shopping urge so strong…&lt;/h2>&lt;figure class="image">&lt;img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Hoarding-Clothes--Inside-image-2_1642736772557.jpg">&lt;/figure>&lt;p>… that it could put to shame the sheer &lt;i>shiddat&lt;/i> of all &lt;i>aashiqs&lt;/i> combined from all Imtiaz-Ali movies ever made. An urge so strong, it would silence any voice of reason that might rise in my head. So what if it’s not available in my size? I could lose some weight. So what if my wardrobe is already so stuffed that you can’t even place a feather there? The side-table drawers are yet to be conquered. So what if I’d be left with 70 bucks in my bank account after that purchase? There could be a hidden treasure somewhere in the house to cover my other expenses. Now, if the appalling revelation of my bank balance makes the bit about speaking to a mental-health expert, sound unrealistic, I don’t blame you. Honestly, I didn’t spend a dime.&lt;/p>&lt;p>By virtue of my profession, I got in touch with Sheena Arora, counsellor and holistic healing expert at Aarvy Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Gurgaon, to gain some insight. And here’s what opening up to her about my so-called “feel-good” habit made me realise:&lt;/p>&lt;p>AlsoRead0&lt;/p>&lt;h2>My new motherhood was to be blamed for it&lt;/h2>&lt;p>“This behaviour is an indicator of the hoarding disorder,” said Arora.“Chances are that there is a lack of emotional connection in your life and a huge inability to take decisions. You need to identify where it stems from,” she added.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Her opening statement hit me like thunder. What I might have been sweeping under the carpet was probably a plethora of emotions that came from feeling overwhelmed with my new motherhood. The fact is that while holding your own baby sparks &lt;i>mamta&lt;/i> like no other, it also comes with a host of body-image issues and utter confusion because guess what? Your life has taken a 360-degree turn overnight and suddenly you’re responsible for another human being!&lt;/p>&lt;p>Now, the ideal way of dealing with it would have been to ask for help and share the emotions with near and dear ones. And nope, clothes are not near and dear ones, FYI—actually FMY (for my information).&lt;/p>&lt;h2>What is this hoarding disorder all about though?&lt;/h2>&lt;figure class="image">&lt;img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Hoarding-Clothes--Inside-image-1_1642736737155.jpg">&lt;/figure>&lt;p>“Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty in discarding or parting with possessions or buying new ones because of a perceived need to stock up things. It is also linked with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD),” she explained.&lt;/p>&lt;p>“A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of possessions and this results in excessive accumulation of items, regardless of their actual value. People may hoard clothing, photographs, food, household items, boxes, newspapers, magazines and more,” Arora added.&lt;/p>&lt;p>AlsoRead1&lt;/p>&lt;h2>How can we deal with it?&lt;/h2>&lt;p>“To break this cycle, start with accepting that there is an area of concern that is hindering a regular and healthy lifestyle,” she recommends. The next step is to ask for help and share your feelings. And that’s what I did. It was hard, but I felt light when I did and my partner immediately stepped up and shared more responsibility.&lt;/p>&lt;p>The other difficult aspect of it was to not act on my shopping impulse. “When you want to buy something, don’t do it immediately. Wait. And then, wait some more,” she added, and suggested analysing whether you really need the product.&lt;/p>&lt;p>If you need a bigger motivation, then hear it from me: Bankruptcy isn’t sweet, girls!&lt;/p>&lt;h2>Neither is harming the environment&lt;/h2>&lt;p>There’s all that talk about sustainability in fashion and the fashion industry relentlessly exploiting natural resources. I mean, the making of a simple cotton T-shirt needs 2,700 litres of water as per The World Wildlife Fund (WWF). By the way, that’s just about enough to sustain a person for two-and-a-half years.&lt;/p>&lt;p>The very thought made my fingers tremble every time I felt the urge to browse through that trendy designer’s website or checkout the very tempting new collection of a fast-fashion brand.&lt;/p>&lt;h2>The final word&lt;/h2>&lt;p>I finally realised that my hoarding disorder was a cry for help from all my suppressed emotions. And while buying the trendiest outfits was a great mood booster, it was a temporary one—which would fade away in days, making an even larger room for a new purchase.&lt;/p>&lt;p>Breaking this vicious cycle of anxiety fuelling more anxiety has boosted my mental health and of course—my bank balance. And if you happen to be going through something similar, don’t shy away from seeking professional help. Might as well spend all that moolah on your health, right?&lt;/p>

My mental health needed saving and so did the planet!

If hoarding is your middle name, then you need to read this now. Read more on zeezest.com.

What Your Habit Of Hoarding Says About Your Mental Health | Zee Zest 

This Is What Talking To A Mental Health Expert About My Habit Of Hoarding Clothes Made Me Realise 

Shopping

Health

<p>Laughter has a direct relationship with alleviation of mood and increasing immunity. Happy hormones like dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin are released when you laugh. This dispels negative emotions like anxiety, despair, stress, resentment, grudges, hurt, and pain. It helps us eliminate toxins and release the tension not from the body but also the mind. Laughter is the best medicine, and we tell you 10 different ways that can make you laugh, every day.</p><h2>1. Hasya yoga</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Laughter_2_1651744337596.jpg"></figure><p>Ayurveda has always acknowledged laughter as hasya yoga, a natural and inexpensive healing therapy that reduces stress and anxiety. It acts as a stimulator to many body organs like the heart, lungs, and muscles and helps them perform better. It decreases heart rate and blood pressure and improves stress response. “Ayurvedic philosophy has always placed great emphasis on the positive effects of laughter and encourages people to laugh at themselves. It helps people to deal with the turmoil and disappointments of life and makes them stronger and stoical. Laughter is a major stress buster and aids us in prioritizing happiness over melancholy. Finding joy in little things and expressing gratitude with the fulfilment of the simplest of desires are some of the secret reasons that promote laughter and happiness in your life. Hasya yoga is a sustainable practice for which one does not have to take out time separately but can become an unbreakable part of your routine,” says Vikas Chawla, founder and director, Vedas Cure.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>2. Choose to do fun activities</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Laughter_1_1651744363133.jpg"></figure><p>When feeling overwhelmed, it helps to take a mini-break and consciously watch a standup comedy act or read a funny comic as it shifts the mind to a more relaxed state. “Not only does it calm the mind and body, it also produces serotonin. Watching stand-up comedy like Trevor Noah or Joy Koy is a great way to be exposed to another culture but it also gets us laughing our lungs out. <i>Tom and Jerry</i> or other comics are a good laugh too. The more laughter we bring into our lives, the happier we become. The happier we are, the more we attract people to our lives,” says Karina Calver, relationship expert and founder, Hukam Healing.</p><h2>3. Surround yourself with positivity</h2><p>A study published in the <i>Journal of Neuroscience</i> in 2017 suggests that every time we look at people we know laughing, our brain releases endorphins, the happy hormones, and prepares our facial muscles to join in the laughter. “The best way to bring in laughter in your life is by surrounding yourself with people who have a positive energy and love to enjoy life in the present. As you spend more time with those who remain positive and share their happiness with others, your own self-esteem will experience a boost. Another way to laugh more is to fall in love with your own laughter. Your laugh is a part of your identity. It contributes to your health and happiness; when you deny yourself the chance to laugh wholeheartedly because you are worried people will judge you, you are essentially putting your health in jeopardy,” says Ayushi Mathur, mindset mentor, founder and CEO, Pickbetter Marketing.</p><h2>4. Indulge in a spot of gaming</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Laughter_3_1651744350511.jpg"></figure><p>Gaming is known to reduce stress and help you focus better. Imagine yourself watching an IPL match, knowing that this batsman is going to get out in this over because of his history with the kind of bowling or that bowler, and he gets out. “What is your first reaction? You laugh with joy, and you boast about your prediction to your friends. We all do that. Now, add the thrill and fun of iGaming to it. The laugh gets louder, and the win, sweeter. iGaming, at its core, is a leisure activity. When done right, it can reduce stress, and bring thrill and fun into daily mundane life,” says Dmitry Belianin, chief marketing officer, Parimatch International.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>5. Connect with children</h2><p>Whether you are a parent or not, a conversation with a child is bound to take you on a joyful trip down memory lane. Children have an innate power to spread joy. “I often sit next to the gang of three and four-year-olds in my apartment complex, listening to their sweet nothings and chuckle blissfully. Recently when my daughter was stressed about her board exams, we decided to watch all the funny scenes from our favourite movies, which made us cackle and acted as an instant tranquillizer,” says Meenakshi Mahesh, a Bengaluru resident.</p><h2>6. Take a break</h2><p>Laughter is an easy way to trick our brains and release happy hormones. In today’s fast-moving world, we have reached a point where it has become necessary to pause, take a moment to laugh a little, and then move on—refreshed. Laughter helps to enhance your mood, improve your immune system, and acts as a buffer from the negative effects of stress and anxiety. “Mindful laughing is a unique approach towards your healing journey. When you start laughing in a stressful situation your brains release healthy hormones such as endorphins and stops the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine,” says Dr Narendra Shetty, chief wellness consultant, Kshemavana—a naturopathy wellness retreat coming up in Nelamangala.</p><h2>7. Voluntary laughing</h2><p>Laughter therapy believes that voluntary laughter provides the same psychological and physiological benefits compared to spontaneous laughter. Science says that whether our laughter is real or fake it has an equal and positive effect on our body. “The body cannot distinguish between 'fake' laughter and 'real' laughter. Therefore, voluntary laughter, which is like fake it till you make it, cannot only help us achieve real laughter but also gives us all the positive benefits. This becomes easier for a person when he/she gets into the group. For those who are a bit inhibited, it might be a bit difficult in the beginning but once they grasp the concept, they willingly join the happy banter. Other than the physical and mental benefits, laughing can also increase bonding and social connectedness. It is linked to a feeling of safety and security, making one feel more relaxed,” says Dr. Deepak Mittal, founder, Divine Soul Yoga.</p><h2>8. Do silly things</h2><p>The strain of everyday life can make you more serious than you think, and, in the process, you forget to laugh. However, mundane and almost silly things can still make you laugh. Atifa, a communication professional and self-confessed jolly soul says, “Use the autocorrect feature in smartphones. Just type random three or four letters including vowels and you see many senseless autocorrect suggestions that sometimes can make you laugh. Also, don’t hesitate to send these to your friends so that both of you can enjoy a giggle. Ask weird questions to Siri like, if you are awesome? Do you have a girlfriend? What are you wearing? How much do you cost? While it may seem inane, you will still manage to laugh out loud.”</p><h2>9. Speak to friends</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Laughter_4_1651744385040.jpg"></figure><p>A lot of times when things aren’t going well, we isolate ourselves from people; however, that is counterproductive. "When we are down, good times with our friends is always a mood lifter, it calms us down and puts us in a state to make better decisions, even just watching something that is lighthearted or funny really can put us at ease and helps us cope with issues better. Don’t get me wrong, the problem does not go away, but being in a better mood will always ensure that you make a better choice, and your decisions are made more accurately," says Liz Dsouza, founder, Liz Lyn Careers.</p><h2>10. Practice laughing</h2><p>The easiest way to heal oneself and become whole is to laugh. Laughing is certainly natural but when laughter is exercised, practised, or induced—it can also become a medicine. "When we induce laughter, diaphragm movement is activated and lungs get stimulated. Thus, your body gets nourished with lots of oxygen. We literally deep breathe in and out and it could be laughter emptying all our lungs. We can empty our lungs, not just that more than six thousand pockets in our lungs could be filled with fresh air. All the five lobes will work to the full capacity, the vital capacity could go very high and that increases our immunity," says Dr. Mickey Mehta, global fitness guru and holistic expert. </p>

Laughing is the easiest way to beat stress, tension, and strain and yet it is something we do not do as often as we should.

Health Benefits of Laughter | Laughter Therapy | Zee Zest 

Laugh Out Loud For Better Health

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<p>Early this year on January 22, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas announced the arrival of their first baby via surrogacy. On the occasion of Mother’s Day on May 8, 2022, PeeCee took to social media and shared the first photo of her adorable daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas in a candid Instagram post. </p><p>In the sweet pic, Chopra is seen smiling as she holds her daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas, while Jonas is seen gazing at his daughter as he holds the infant's hand. The baby is dressed in an adorable dusty-pink dress and a matching bow headband, with a white heart obscuring her face. Priyanka penned a long note on how her daughter was born prematurely and had to be kept under observation in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) for 100 days.</p><h2>Priyanka Chopra shares the first pic of her daughter</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdTr_YnvMkp/"></oembed></figure><p>Expressing her gratitude towards all the mothers and caretakers in her life, she wrote, “On this Mother’s Day we can’t help but reflect on these last few months and the rollercoaster we’ve been on, which we now know, so many people have also experienced. After 100 plus days in the NICU, our little girl is finally home. Every family’s journey is unique and requires a certain level of faith, and while ours was a challenging few months, what becomes abundantly clear, in retrospect, is how precious and perfect every moment is. We are overjoyed that our little girl is finally home, and just want to thank every Doctor, nurse and specialist at Rady Children’s La Jolla and Cedar Sinai, Los Angeles, who were there selflessly every step of the way. Our next chapter begins now, and our baby is truly a badass. Let’s get it MM! Mommy and Daddy love you.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Priyanka%20Chopra_1_1652100169787.jpg"></figure><p>She further wrote, “Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers and caretakers in my life and out there. You make it look so easy. Thank you. Also.. there is no one I’d rather do this with than you. Thank you for making me a mama @nickjonas I love you.”</p><p>Sharing the same post, wishing Mother’s Day to her lady love and all the mothers out there, husband Nick wrote, “Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mothers and caretakers out there, but I want to take a minute to say a special Mother’s Day wish to my incredible wife @priyankachopra on her first Mother’s Day. Babe, you inspire me in every way, and you are taking to this new role with such ease and steadiness. I am so grateful to be on this journey with you. You are already an incredible mother. Happy Mother’s Day. I love you.”</p><h2>Parineeti Chopra calls Priyanka, a soldier in the hospital</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWtu8xHN6X6/"></oembed></figure><p>Priyanka’s comment section was flooded with love and blessings from her Bollywood friends like Ranveer Singh, Anushka Sharma, Sonam Kapoor and others. Sharing how Priyanka was a soldier in hospital after Malti’s premature birth, her sister Parineeti Chopra wrote, “Seeing the both of you like this the last three months has been both hard and inspiring. Mimi didi - I saw a soldier in the hospital - You. And little BD has taught us so much already and she doesn’t even know it! Chalo, now it's time to start spoiling her.”</p><h2>Expert talk</h2><p>Dr Suresh Birajdar, Neonatologist & Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, Mumbai explains, “A majority of pregnancies last 40 weeks but sometimes a baby is born before the 37th week. Preterm birth occurs when the mother suffers from infection due to multiple pregnancies, if the mother has a problem with her uterus or cervix or has diabetes or preeclampsia (high blood pressure), or even has a history of premature birth. However, in many cases, we may not have any of the above risk factors and there could be premature delivery.”</p><p>The baby may have breathing or heart issues, jaundice, infections, or respiratory problems. Later, there can also be problems with language, growth, development, memory, and hearing.</p><p>Elaborating on how to take care of premature babies, Dr Birajdar says, “You will have to follow guidelines given by the doctor to take care of a premature baby. Set a proper room temperature, the room shouldn’t be too cold or hot, dress the baby appropriately, make sure that he/she is getting a good night’s sleep, limit visitors at home and avoid going out in crowded places with the baby. Mothers should practise kangaroo care to strengthen the bond with the baby, do not ignore any abnormal symptoms in the baby and seek timely medical attention. With the support of the paediatric team, most of the complications associated with prematurity could either be prevented or treated appropriately.”</p>

On Mother’s Day, PeeCee shared the first photo of her daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas.

Malti Marie Chopra Jonas was born prematurely, and had to be kept under observation in NICU. Read more on zeezest.com

Priyanka Chopra Shares First Picture Of Daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas

Priyanka And Nick Jonas Finally Bring Their Daughter Malti Marie Home From NICU

 Priyanka Chopra 

Nick Jonas

Malti Marie Chopra Jonas

<p>Not too long ago, Bollywood actress Nimrat Kaur penned a long note on Instagram sharing her experience with gaining and losing weight to play the character of Bimla Devi in <i>Dasvi</i>. Her post just came out the day after she was trolled for her outfit on <i>The Kapil Sharma Show</i>. While we wondered, if her message on body positivity is a clapback to online trolls, Nimrat says she wanted to speak to people that it’s very important and non-negotiable to be sensitive and understand that nobody else but only we have the right to speak about our own bodies, and that it is nobody else's business to talk about it. </p><p>Prepping for <i>Dasvi</i>, wasn’t a cakewalk for Nimrat to gain 15 kilos, and carry the weight for an entire year. Her journey from Nimmo to Bimmo in the movie was quite a challenge and required her to binge on jalebi, burgers, pizza, chole bhature, loads of chocolates, and everything else that she would ideally avoid on a regular day. It took intense workouts for almost two years to get back to her usual size. </p><p>We got in touch with Nimrat and got her to share more insights about her transformation journey. From battling psychological discomfort to dealing with unsolicited advice on her changing looks—Nimrat shares it all in an exclusive tête-à-tête with Zeezest.</p><p><strong>Excerpts from the interview:</strong></p><h2>1. You’ve talked about going through a physical transformation for your character Bimla Devi in Dasvi, how did you prepare for it? </h2><p>Mentally, I had to prepare myself for a body I never had before. I had to be ready to not fit into the clothes I was used to fitting in. I had to go about it methodologically, responsibly, and slowly. Jhanvi Kanakia, my wonderful nutritionist who was given to me by Maddock Films, took me through the whole process beautifully, patiently, and very lovingly. She understood that I am an actor, and I have a certain relationship with my body, and I had to change that dialogue with my physical self. Her role was very important in that process.</p><h2>2. How long did it take and what diet did you follow? </h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdIEJzbsWm7/"></oembed></figure><p>I ate high-calorie food but very healthy foods. I stayed away from simple carbs, alcohol, or anything that would damage the system. So I ate things I grew up eating like parathas and all sorts of wonderful things that my mum cooked, froze, and sent to me from Delhi by courier. So I enjoyed the process. It took about six to seven months to put that weight on. It wasn't a target weight but a look that was in my mind. And by the end of the journey of being where I should have been physically, I had ended up putting on 15-16 kgs, which was an incidental thing. There wasn't a number in mind. So it was a slow, steady, but a very responsible process.</p><h2>3. What were the challenges you faced during that period?</h2><p>Psychologically, there were days when I didn’t feel very comfortable. My joints used to have a tough time because my body was not used to carrying the weight I was carrying. I developed breathlessness and all kinds of problems I hadn't experienced before. But I tried to remind myself again it was temporary and intentional. The biggest challenge when you are physically changing is that you don't have control over it. And then there were people who would randomly comment on how I was looking or what I was eating without realising that it's my own prerogative on what I eat and what I look like. It was an interesting observation that I made during the process.</p><h2>4. How long did it take to lose those extra kilos and what all exercises did you do?</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ccj6ia6MesK/"></oembed></figure><p>I was actually stuck with the weight for many months because the lockdown happened three days before we could have wrapped the shoot. I had to retain the weight, not knowing when we would get back to shooting. I got a bit worried as it was a little strange not knowing when I would return to my normal self. I kept the weight for a year. I started functional training and slowly started to lose weight, but I injured myself with a tennis leg. I tore my calf muscle because I was training harder than my body was able to handle. I had to get into physiotherapy. All in all, it took me a year and a half, close to two years, to somewhat come back to where I had begun. I wasn’t in a rush; I went about it slowly.</p><h2>5. Did it affect your mental health at any point? </h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CMJYQKIj83V/"></oembed></figure><p>Well, it did not affect my mental health per se. I used to have days when I used to worry will I be able to come back to my normal self, but then I had my loved ones around me, my friends, my well-wishers, my trainer—everyone used to have healthy and wonderful conversations with me that really helped me calibrate exactly where I was and that I didn't need to worry about anything. More than anything else, I wanted to have a dialogue out loud about how everyone around us needs to be extremely careful about how you can't comment on anyone else's body just because you think you know better than them.</p><h2>6. The pressure to look a certain way is real. You think Bollywood's idea of a quintessential heroine is changing with time?</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CcILbUyLkwV/"></oembed></figure><p>I think that's been happening for a very long time now. More and more diverse content is being produced now. All types of sizes, shapes, and skin colours are visible now in the entertainment industry with the kind of stories being written. There hasn't been a better time for all kinds of people to be seen in stories and mainstream work. I think it's really a very lovely time.</p><h2>7. How do you deal with social media trolls?</h2><p>Honestly, I don’t deal with trolls. I don’t have the time to deal with trolls or people who have nothing better to do with their lives than making someone else’s life difficult. I have no time and patience to pay attention to people like that. I mean, where does it stop? A change needs to be brought in the mindset where women cannot be looked at as physical objects of desire or pleasure. I feel like that is a dialogue that needs to be encouraged. The point of view has to be changed.</p><h2>8. What are some Indian beauty stereotypes, according to you, that we should be done with?</h2><p>Skin colour, body shape, height! Anything that requires somebody to behave a certain way, like don't laugh too loud or don't argue back because it is not a good sign of a well brought-up girl.</p>

From battling psychological discomfort to dealing with unsolicited advice on her changing looks, Nimrat Kaur shares it all with Zeezest. 

From battling psychological discomfort to dealing with unsolicited advice on her changing looks, Nimrat Kaur shares it all in a tête-à-tête with us. Read more on zeezest.com

Nimrat Kaur Talks About Her Weight Loss Journey After Dasvi | Zee Zest

Exclusive: 'Dasvi' Actress Nimrat Kaur Opens Up About Her Weight Loss Journey And Dealing With Trolls   

Nimrat Kaur

Dasvi

Bimla Devi

Indian Celebrities 

Bollywood Interview

<p>If you follow Kriti Sanon religiously on Instagram, chances are you have come across the workout videos she’s been posting lately making you wonder what she’s up to. Well, the <i>Bachchhan Paandey </i>actress completed eight years in the industry today and took to social media to make an official announcement about the start of her new journey. Sharing a teaser of her upcoming journey, she wrote, “Announcing the start of a new journey tomorrow as I complete 8 years here.” In the video, the actress can be seen showing off some intense workouts and yoga moves that dropped enough hints about her new journey being dedicated to fitness.</p><h2>Kriti Sanon embarks on a new journey as an entrepreneur</h2><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd2jpELMRp-/"></oembed></figure><p>Today in her latest post, the 31-year-old shared that she’s joined the entrepreneur bandwagon with Robin Behl, Karan Sawhney, and Anushka Nandani - the co-founders of The Tribe, a community that deals with virtual training, in-studio training, tailor-made nutrition, corporate wellness and beginners training.</p><p>Sharing a picture with the fitness experts, she wrote, “They say ‘Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe’!! I have always been someone who believes in pushing people I truly believe in and today stands for exactly that. Eight years ago, I started my journey as an actor in the Hindi film industry with the help of people who believed in me and gave me wings to fly! Today, eight years later, exactly on the same day, I am thrilled to announce my journey as an entrepreneur with my three amazingly talented co-founders Anushka Nandani, Karan Sawhney and Robin Behl as we launch our Passion Project “The Tribe”.</p><h2>Kriti Sanon on fitness post ‘<i>Mimi</i>’</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_kritisanon_283284829_452091063389034_5148904177844758050_n_1653307400664.jpg"></figure><p>Elaborating on how her personal fitness journey actually began after <i>Mimi</i>, a film that required her to gain and lose weight for her on screen character, she wrote, “I discovered my personal fitness journey post <i>Mimi</i> when I had to shed the 15 kilos I had put on for the film and we hit a lockdown where gyms were shut. Robin, Karan and Anushka became a huge part of this journey of mine and made me realise that to stay fit, all you need is motivation, the right guidance and someone who can make workouts fun for you no matter where you are.”</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_kritisanon_283533149_2441446169319619_7667109630304304117_n_1653307433036.jpg"></figure><p>Talking about how they intend to make intense workouts fun and doable, she said, “We at The Tribe believe in motivating you to become the best and the fittest version of yourself- Be it with in-studio, group/personal or virtual sessions with some of the coolest, youngest and fittest trainers who will not only push your limits but also make workouts super fun!<br>Also excited to announce that we will be launching The Tribe App later this year which will give you access to anything and everything to do with fitness and mindfulness no matter where you are.”</p><p>Check out some of the inspiring workout videos Kriti posted recently.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdX1b5jjdq_/"></oembed></figure><p>Who needs a gym and gym accessories anyway? Learn from Kriti how to do the perfect squats with rocks by the mountain side.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdLb8sMOxhc/"></oembed></figure><p>Breaking the monotony of working out in the gym, Kriti shared a video in which she can be seen doing outdoor workouts with dumbbells on the terrace soaking in all the vitamin D.</p><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc42CH5v0Ov/"></oembed></figure><p>In another video, Kriti is seen sweating it out at the gym doing boxing. “No Excuses”, read her caption.</p>

The actress completes eight years in the industry and embarks on a new journey as an entrepreneur.

The actress completes eight years in the industry and embarks on a new journey as an entrepreneur. Read more on zeezest.com

Kriti Sanon Embarks On A New Journey As An Entrepreneur | Zee Zest

Kriti Sanon Joins The Celebrity Entrepreneur Tribe

Kriti Sanon

The Tribe India

Fitness

<p>Collagen–if the word on Instagram is to go by--there’s nothing it can’t fix. It boosts your hair growth, aids skin regeneration and maintains its youthful appearance, strengthens bones and joints and repairs muscles. Its wondrous benefits no doubt had us reaching out to the experts. From what collagen is in the first place to how exactly it should be consumed—we answer all your questions before you include collagen in your diet.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>What is collagen?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_collagen_3_1651490380772.jpg"></figure><p>To begin with, it’s important to understand what collagen is in the first place. Collagen can be referred to as the 'building blocks' of the body. “When it comes to our joints and tendons, in simplest terms, it’s the ‘glue’ that helps to hold the body together. It’s what gives our skin strength and elasticity while also helping it replace dead cells,” shares Sudha Nair, naturopathy manager, Dharana at Shillim.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>Why does the body need collagen in the form of supplements?</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_collagen_2_1651491952032.jpg"></figure><p>While collagen is naturally found in the body, it starts breaking down as we age, in turn making our skin and hair lose their elasticity. Aaditya Sheth, Partner, INJA Wellness further explains: “The production of collagen in our body slows down in our 20s. Naturally, we start losing 1% collagen after the age of 30. Other factors like a diet rich in sugar, excessive smoking and consumption of alcohol and over-exposure to UV rays further accelerate this process.” While bone broth is a food source of collagen, we don’t really get direct collagen from other food sources—which is why it becomes important to consume collagen in a powdered supplement form.</p><p>AlsoRead2</p><h2>Are collagen supplements non-vegetarian? </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_collagen_1_1651491878871.jpg"></figure><p>Yes, collagen is non-vegetarian. Sheth lists the sources of collagen as bovine, porcine, poultry and marine. "Collagen is a nutrient found only in fauna and not in flora, which is why there is no vegetarian source. However, there is research being conducted on extracting collagen from algae and kelp. It is still not established as a product as it is in the research and development stage," he says. He further points out that marine collagen is 1.5 times more bioavailable than other sources, which means that is it more easily absorbed by the body, making it the preferred ‘type’ of collagen.</p><h2>What are the long-term benefits of consuming collagen? </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_collagen_5_1651491721954.jpg"></figure><p>Call it glue or building blocks, but collagen is literally what ‘keeps the body together’. It impacts different parts of the body right from the skin to the joints. From the point of view of skin, it has tremendous anti-ageing benefits as it reduces fine lines and improves suppleness and smoothness. Similarly, it strengthens and improves the texture of the hair and nails. Collagen supplements are also often prescribed to athletes and sportsmen owing to their ability to repair and regenerate muscles and joints. The powder can either be consumed with water or even be added to soups and smoothies to improve their nutrient value. The ideal time to consume collagen is night as this is the time the body goes into its repair and regenerative mode.</p><h2>How can one go about selecting the right supplement? </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_collagen_4_1651491786562.jpg"></figure><p>Nair suggests buying your collagen from a reputed source and brand. “It’s important to know that type 2 collagen is usually chicken, while types 1 and 3 can be bovine, fish or egg whites. If you are allergic to any of those proteins, then steer clear,” she adds. Sheth on the other hand recommends marine collagen as it is absorbed more easily by the body. </p><h2>Are there any risks involved with the consumption of collagen?</h2><p>As long as you’re assured of the source of your collagen, there is no risk of side effects. That being said, it’s always advisable to get a clearance from your family physician. “The only time you should not be consuming collagen is when you’re either pregnant or lactating,” warns Sheth. Online deals on supplements like collagen may often be enticing. However, with collagen or any other supplement, it’s the quality that matters; the results on your body will follow. </p>

If you’re planning to jump onto the collagen bandwagon, these are the questions you need answers to before adding them to your diet.

From what collagen is in the first place to how exactly it should be consumed, wellness experts answer all your queries. Read more on zeezest.com 