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  • Sustainable Chikankari: A Fusion of Tradition and Eco-Friendly Practices

    Chikankari, which originated in Lucknow, is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. This art form, which involves hand embroidery with simple cotton threads, has been cherished for centuries. Recently, there’s been a growing focus on integrating sustainability into this traditional craft, ensuring its preservation for future generations while promoting eco-friendly practices. Sustainable Chikankari fashion is the new trend in staying traditionally fashionable and committing to nature.

    Sustainable Chikankari

    Sustainable Chikankari – Then and Now

    It is believed that Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir was the one to introduce this beautiful art of embroidery for us. In those days embroidery was done on Silk, muslin and organza clothes. As time went by different types of clothing materials entered the market and our idea of clothing itself changed. However recent times have seen increased awareness about sustainable clothing and how it would benefit us. The industry is slowly switching to sustainable chikankari from chemical dyes and non-organic fabrics.

    Sustainable Practices in Chikankari

    Organic Fabrics

    Organics fabrics sourced from natural and organic sources are the first and foremost step to wade towards sustainability. While it is tough to find the right fabric, sourcing from trusted artisans could ensure that the fabric is sourced from the right place and simultaneously benefits the artisans.

    Natural dyes

    Switching natural dyes derived from plant sources would benefit the environment and also good for the artisan’s health. While dealing with the chemicals they tend to develop secondary health complications. Hence sourcing natural dyes is inevitable to have a sustainable future.

    Up cycling recycling

    Thrifting has become synonymous of sustainability. Gone are the days when used items are frowned upon. Moreover, they are now called pre loved, displaying the passion and affection for them. This promotes circular economy.

    Fair wages for the artisans

    You might be wondering how sustainable Chikankari is possible with fair wages. As we discussed above, Artisans play a major role in maintaining sustainability in Chikankari. Only if they are paid well and take care they would be able to contribute more to the industry. This realisation forced the mother daughter duo Poonam Rawal and Aakriti Rawal to start their venture House of Chikankari – An initiative to promote sustainable fashion while simultaneously using the craftsmanship of the artisans and ensuring their economic and social empowerment.

    Redefining The Fashion Game

    I stumbled across House of Chikakari while I was looking for clothing brands that promote sustainable fashion. The moment I landed on the page, I was left in awe of the beauty of their designs. A major drawback of Chikankari that I have noticed is the lack of variety in designs. The Kantha Cotton Chikankari Long Kurta for Women that I bought had a variety design never seen on Chikankari clothes. The mix of Kantha and Chikankari made it look unique and aesthetic.

    What blew my mind is the Cotton Printed Women’s 2 PC Coord Set. I have already worn it thrice and I am addicted to this piece. It is breathable, light weight and perfect for Summer. The quality of the stitching and design makes it one of the most reliable clothing brands.

    Integrating sustainability into Chikankari not only helps in preserving this beautiful art form but also promotes environmentally friendly practices that benefit both artisans and consumers. By adopting organic fabrics, natural dyes, and fair trade practices, the Chikankari industry can set an example for other traditional crafts, proving that heritage and sustainability can go hand in hand.By focusing on these sustainable practices, we can ensure that Chikankari continues to be a cherished art form, admired for its beauty and respected for its eco-friendly approach.

  • Best Health Drinks For Child Growth #63PercentMoreProtein

    Best Health Drinks For Child Growth #63PercentMoreProtein

    I am a part of Hands of Love by Moms of Kochi which is an initiative by Moms of Kochi where we lend a hand to manage the finances of needy moms and kids.

    As part of the group, we often get requests on how to ensure children are getting the right nutrition for their growth and development.

    Us moms have always been looking for the best diet for proper nutrition and the best nutrition drinks for child growth. Here are some nutrition drinks you could try.

    Best Nutrition Drinks for Child Growth

    1.    Multigrain Drink

    For an active, growing child, a daily diet might not suffice to fulfill their energy requirements. Hence it is ideal to include proper supplements to ensure the energy and nutrient quota. One such drink is the Multigrain drink.

    Dry roast millets, sago, horse gram, almonds, pistachios and cashews. Powder them and keep them in an airtight container. Add this to your child’s drink every day and ensure that your child remains active and healthy. This one is the best health drink for your child that you can prepare at home.

    2.    Dates and Almonds shake

    Kids love milkshakes and it is an easier choice to ensure that the child has consumed enough nutrients and remains full. Dates and Almonds milk shake is a healthy blend of protein, calcium, vitamin E, copper, magnesium, potassium, iron, and vitamin B6. Take a glass of milk, 2-3 dates and a few almonds soaked overnight and peeled. Blend it in a mixer and consume fresh.

    Health drinks for child growth

    3.    Turmeric Masala Mix

    Consuming Turmeric Masala mix regularly improves immunity and Curcumin in turmeric helps when you have the common cold. Add a pinch of turmeric, and a teaspoon powdered cashew along with jaggery powder. Consuming this milk an hour before bedtime improves sleep and helps in improving your child’s mood.

    Turmeric masala drink

    4.    Kesar Badam Milk

    This magic drink is one of the best nutrition drinks for kids and adults alike. This improves immunity, strengthens bones and also enhances eyesight. Just like turmeric milk, Kesar Badam milk also helps to improve your sleep if consumed an hour before bedtime.

    Finding the best nutrition drink

    For busy mothers preparing these drinks and shakes can be an added job on some days. Moreover, remembering the ingredients to ensure ample nutrition is also a difficult task. This is where nutrition drinks come to your rescue.

    But in these days of advertisement oversurge, how to find the right brand of nutrition drinks? You have to turn the bottle and check the ingredients. The ingredient that is given first is the prominent ingredient. You can also check the nutritional value.

    While I compared various nutrition drink brands I realised that Complan is the right choice for my household as it has 34 vital nutrients, including 100% milk protein, vitamins and minerals. Also, it contains 63% more protein than other nutrition drinks.

    Making healthy drinks for your child is satisfactory work. Because watching the kids drink up delicious nutrition without complaints is any mother’s dream.

    You too can give the best nutrition drinks to your child and ensure their nutrition quota is fulfilled.

    Disclaimer: The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Complan.

  • Indoor Zen Garden For Holistic Wellness At Home

    Indoor Zen Garden For Holistic Wellness At Home

    In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of peace and tranquility is essential for maintaining our mental and emotional well-being. One way to cultivate serenity within our living spaces is by incorporating an indoor Zen garden.

    Indoor Zen Garden

    As much as we love living an eco-friendly life, to be a nature home, we have to develop an indoor garden. I have embarked on my wellness journey 5 years ago. Since then, there has been no looking back. I solely developed my spiritual space within my household where I find my peace and resilience. My Indoor zen garden has become my safe space where I share every emotion. I used to wonder how it could change my life so drastically that I have become a serene being.

    Benefits of Indoor Zen Garden

    These miniature landscapes offer a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics. Let’s delve deeper into why introducing an indoor Zen garden into your home can be a transformative experience.

    Relaxation for the Mind

    At the heart of every indoor Zen garden lies a sanctuary for the mind. Carefully curated with elements like smooth stones, lush greenery, and flowing water features, these tranquil havens provide a space for relaxation and introspection. Amidst the chaos of daily life, stepping into your indoor Zen garden can offer a respite as one of the strategies to manage stress—a place where you can unwind, rejuvenate, and center your thoughts.

    Improving Mental Health

    The impact of an indoor Zen garden on mental health is profound. By creating an environment conducive to relaxation and mindfulness, these serene settings have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. The simple act of tending to the garden—raking the sand, arranging stones, or pruning bonsai trees—can foster a sense of calm and inner peace, promoting overall psychological well-being.

    Elegance and Sophistication

    Beyond its therapeutic benefits, an indoor Zen garden adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. The minimalist design aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and harmonious balance, creates a visual focal point that exudes tranquility and refinement. Whether nestled in a corner of your living room or showcased as a centerpiece in your foyer, the presence of a Zen garden elevates the ambiance of your home, inviting a sense of serenity and grace into your surroundings.

    Improved Air Quality

    In addition to its aesthetic appeal, an indoor Zen garden contributes to better indoor air quality. The presence of live plants within the garden serves as natural air purifiers, absorbing harmful toxins and releasing oxygen into the surrounding environment. By incorporating elements such as lush foliage, succulents, or air-purifying plants like peace lilies or spider plants, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your Zen garden but also create a healthier living space for you and your family.

    The benefits of an indoor Zen garden extend far beyond mere decoration. From promoting relaxation and mental well-being to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and air quality of your home, these serene sanctuaries offer a multitude of advantages for both the mind and body. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat from the chaos of everyday life or simply looking to infuse your living space with a sense of tranquility and harmony, consider creating your own indoor Zen garden—an oasis of serenity amidst the chaos of modern living.

    My zen garden

    Little did I know that my path to tranquility would be fraught with challenges. As I ventured into indoor gardening, the constraints of space posed significant hurdles in working with sand and planting materials. However, amidst the obstacles, I found solace in the expertise of Bombay Greens, a beacon of guidance in my quest for inner peace.

    Confronting Space Limitations

    The first obstacle I encountered was the limited space available for crafting my Zen oasis. Unlike outdoor gardens with boundless expanses, an indoor setting demanded careful consideration of every inch. Maneuvering sand and planting materials within this confined environment proved to be a daunting task.

    Discovering Bombay Greens

    In my pursuit of solutions, I stumbled upon Bombay Greens—a sanctuary for gardening enthusiasts. Their comprehensive range of products and services catered to every aspect of setting up an indoor Zen garden, alleviating my concerns and uncertainties.

    A One-Stop Solution

    What impressed me most about Bombay Greens was their holistic approach to indoor gardening. From mats for protecting surfaces to specialized fertilizers for nourishing plants, they provided everything I needed to transform my vision into reality. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality ensured that no aspect of my garden was overlooked.

    Overcoming Challenges

    With the essential supplies from Bombay Greens, I felt equipped to tackle the remaining obstacles in my path. While I already possessed decorative elements like Buddha curios, the messy nature of handling potting mixture threatened to derail my progress.

    Despite the initial setbacks, the process of creating my indoor Zen garden became a labor of love. As I meticulously arranged stones, nurtured plants, and curated a sense of harmony, I found myself immersed in a state of peace and contentment.

    The gardening mat by Bombay Greens is made of high-quality 300 GSM Geo Fabric Material. It is durable and waterproof. It’s easy to clean and perfect for repotting. Further, I bought the potting mixture which comprises of vermiculite, cocopeat, fertilizer, and neem powder. It is a combo for your potting and repotting needs. This makes the potting process less messy and saves time and water. This is a 100% organic mixture, which enhances the plant growth manifold. It is a light fluffy and high-draining pot mix. This makes 10kg of potting mix and makes potting an easy task. In addition, I also bought seeds from them. Overall Bombay Greens has made my Indoor zen garden adorable and refreshing without any mess.

    Setting up my indoor Zen garden was far from a cakewalk, but it was a journey worth undertaking. Today, as I bask in the serenity of my Zen oasis, I am reminded that amidst life’s challenges, there is always room for growth, beauty, and inner peace.

  • Ultimate Guide to Vegan Protein Options

    Ultimate Guide to Vegan Protein Options

    In the world of vegan nutrition, plant-based proteins are the superheroes that fuel our bodies with the strength and vitality we need. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just embarking on a plant-powered journey, understanding the diverse and delicious world of plant proteins is essential. More often than not the vegan diet has been demonised for not providing us with the requisite protein content. However, being a nutrition and fitness coach my research in this matter has opened a vast world of Vegan protein options and the myths surrounding protein in a Vegan diet.

    Importance of protein in the diet

    We have learned from school protein is a macronutrient. It is called the building block of the body. A Vegan diet excludes all animal products like milk, meat, eggs and other animal-derived ingredients. The absence of conventional animal protein sources presents a danger of protein deficiency unless we back it up with vegan protein options. Before we see the protein-rich vegan diet, let’s address a few myths about protein deficiency in plant-based diets.

    Myths about protein deficiency in plant-based diet

    1. Plant-based diet causes protein deficiency – There are numerous plant sources of protein. If consumed in the right quantity, they will suffice the protein requirement in our body.
    2. Plant proteins are incomplete – While some of the plant protein sources may lack a few amino acids, if you ensure the consumption of a balanced diet, this can be compensated. Plant-based athletes and bodybuilders have successfully followed an active lifestyle by including a variety of plant protein sources in their diet.
    3. Plant proteins are not bio-available as animal proteins. Some plant protein sources could have lower bioavailability than animal proteins. However, the bioavailability can be improved by cooking, soaking and fermenting.

    There are more myths about the vegan diet but you can be rest assured that you can suffice your protein requirement by including a variety of plant protein sources in your diet.

    Vegan protein options in your diet

    1. Legumes

    They are probably the most accepted and known protein sources. Legumes like lentils, chickpeas and black beans are rich in protein content. 100-gram lentils have more protein content than one boiled egg. When it comes to nuts and soya the protein content is even more.

    Vegan protein options 2 -legumes

    2. Soya chunks, Tofu and Tempeh

    Tofu and tempeh are both derived from soya milk. They can be used as substitutes for paneer. They can be used in curries, or in grilled and fried form. 100 gm soya chunk contains 52 gm proteins which is equal to 4 boiled eggs.

    3. Quinoa

    Quinoa is a complete protein, It contains all essential amino acids. It is easy to cook and can be used as a base for salads, or as a side dish.

    4. Nuts and seeds

    Seeds and nuts have high protein content. Nuts like almonds, peanuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds ets are rich in protein. You can prepare homemade protein powder using these nuts and seeds.

    5. Whole grains

    Brown rice, bulgur, barley, and oats are examples of whole grains that contribute to protein intake. They can be used as the base for meals or added to soups and stews.

    6. Plant-based protein powder

    Vegan protein options 3-min

    If you are a busy bee running from office to home, you might not have the time and frame of mind to cook protein-rich foods and make protein powder, store bought protein powder is the best option. However, it is imperative to ensure the quality of the protein powder that we are buying. One reliable protein powder that has the goodness of peas, mushrooms, spirulina and probiotics is the Plant Protein Powder by Rooted Actives. This is a chocolate-flavoured 100% vegan plant protein powder. The goodness of protein is obtained from brown rice, mushrooms, spirulina, peas etc. This is enriched with all 9 amino acids and enzymes for digestion. It is the best choice for those who are following vegan, keto or gluten-free diets. It can be the ideal ingredient in your post-workout drink.

    In addition, the fact that it is sweetened by natural stevia makes it a safe bet for people who want to go sugar-free. It is also infused with super mushrooms – Reishi, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps, Shiitake, and Oyster mushrooms. If you consider the calorie and fat content of whey protein, this plant protein powder has a lesser quantity while the fibre content is more. Mix 1 heaping scoop (35 G Approx) of Plant Protein in 200-250ml of water. Shake well until it is completely mixed. Take 1-2 Servings Daily.

    Mushroom coffee

    Another ingredient by Rooted Active Naturals that stole my heart is their Wellness Mushroom Coffee.

    Vegan protein options

    Lion’s mane and chaga are superfoods that do not interfere with the taste of coffee. Lion’s mane is revered for its nootropic (cognition), brain, focus, and memory-boosting properties, while Chaga is a super antioxidant that helps with energy, immunity & cardio functioning. These powerful adaptogens & antioxidants may balance the effects of coffee without impacting its taste. more energy, fewer jitters, and super performance. (85% arabica coffee + 15% Lion’s mane & Chaga).

    As you explore the world of vegan protein options, remember that variety is key to a well-rounded vegan diet. By embracing the abundance of options available, you can enjoy delicious meals while nourishing your body with the essential nutrients it needs. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine, this guide is designed to empower you on your journey to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

  • Embrace Your Angry Bird Image Because Anger Is A Positive Emotion

    Embrace Your Angry Bird Image Because Anger Is A Positive Emotion

    ‘Why are you getting unreasonably angry?’ ‘Do you have anger issues?’ ‘You should control your anger.’ Many of you might have heard this at some part of your life. Anger has always been demonized as an unhealthy emotion. I was the angry bird of the family that the younger ones would think thrice before messing with me. At school and college, I have been omitted from the so called desirable women category because the boys used to be wary of my reaction if they approached me. Slowly, the thought that my anger is my drawback started seeping into my psyche. It took me two decades to realize that anger is after all a positive emotion if channelized in the right path. The moment I learned to embrace my anger and tamed it, my life changed. I channelised my anger positively and the transformation in my personality is unbelievable. So, the next time someone gives you an angry bird image, tell them that ‘it is because I am positive’.

    Angry Bird Image

    Embracing my angry bird image

    I knew from early on that my anger was not healthy. Though I was not aware of healthy and unhealthy emotions back then, I was well aware that my anger was destructive. If I indulge in an argument, I would be the louder one. I had to raise my voice to the highest decibel to feel the satisfaction of having an upper hand. If that was not enough, I used to unreasonably hurt my loved ones and have lost many friendships because I used to treat them as my anger release bags. I knew I was going wrong but I was helpless. When I decided to change the pattern, I initiated a new defence mechanism of not reacting to anything that would trigger me.

    I was somehow convinced that by avoiding the situation, I could remain calm. The moment a trigger came my way I started reminding myself to not react. Everyone was happy to see the newly emerged version of mine. The angry bird image gave way to the patient soul. Only if I knew that I was not managing my anger but bottling it up. Result? Things reached the bottleneck and I burst out fiercer than ever before. Whoever triggered me was out of the picture because I was loud enough to overpower the thoughts of the ones around me. Everyone saw how I was behaving but no one cared to ask why.

    Angry Bird Image - Angry boy

    How I changed my angry bird image in a healthy transformation?

    The first step into anger management was to acknowledge that being angry was normal. As a next step, I started observing my anger and I learned the following facts about it.

    • Anger helps to understand us better
    • A feeling of anger enabled me to stand up for myself
    • Being angry has saved me from many toxic friendships
    • Anger has motivated me to push my limits
    • Anger helped me in defending myself

    If my anger had unimaginably positive repercussions, why was my anger materializing in a negative form? Because, for me, anger was not an emotion till then, it was an expression. My anger was not manifested in a physical form like an emotion that is being processed and expressed in a better way. The moment of this realization was bliss for me.

    Since then I put a halt and ask myself, should I react this way or is there an alterative way to express my anger? More often than not I used to express unreasonable anger to my kids because it was convenient for me. I developed a pattern of escapism wherein I used to shout at my kids when I am angry with my husband. This was a prominently unhealthy pattern that I had to fight my way out of. When I followed the habit of pausing and introspecting I started behaving more reasonable and surprisingly I win every argument.

    Your expression of anger depends on the person at the receiving end

    Anger is positive

    Some instances, I would witness myself being angry at my partner to hide my pain. Yes! anger helps to hide the pain but this camouflaged pain could reach a bottleneck. You might have felt relieved of taking the burden out after shouting at someone who you have been suppressing your anger from. This is because it is like the pressure valve which when released, becomes loose. You heart and throat that tightens with pain will be relieved once your anger is expressed. But further you embark on a guilt trip of overreacting to the situation. To avoid such an introspective regret, you could pause and think. Journal your feelings and find better words to express them.

    Anger helped me earn my position

    Embrace your angry bird image

    If you ask me about the crossroad in my life, I would say it is the toxic friendship which budded after my third child was born. She broke me at different layers but my anger towards her fueled a fire to fight my way up. It is my anger towards her that pushed me beyond my limits and it acted as a manifestation and visualization meditation coupled with affirmations like ” I will show her what I am capable of”.

    Every time I uttered similar lines, I was reassuring myself that I am capable of even more. My angry bird image might have changed by now, after applying the wellness programs in my own life. However, I still feel angry and I have learned to channelize my anger productively. Hence the next time you feel angry, ask yourself if it is an emotion or an expression. If it is the latter, you have won half the challenge.

  • Infused Oniol Oil For Luscious Hair – Earth Raga Changes The Haircare Game

    Infused Oniol Oil For Luscious Hair – Earth Raga Changes The Haircare Game

    Everyone needs luscious hair that flows freely in the wind. The teenage me was blessed with thick and long hair without even doing anything to care for it. It shamelessly grew like a desperate lover putting up with the ill-treatment of the toxic partner. Yes, I was thankless. I never took care of my hair and alas! My hair gave up on me. After my three pregnancies, whatever relation I had with my hair broke. That’s when I knew about a new herbal formula that was introduced into the world of hair care -Onion oil. Onion Oil benefits are so much so that we will be surprised to see the lost strands grow back. How is infused onion oil so helpful for your hair follicles?

    Infused Onion Oil

    Infused Onion Oil Benefits

    Onion oil has been in use as a remedy for headaches, respiratory illness, blading, etc. The onset of technology and the human tendency to cultivate a predisposition towards anything instantly changed everything. The relevance of onion oil just shrunk to oblivion. Of late, the benefits of onion oils have started to surprise everyone, and products with infused onion oil have been on the rise. Here are the main benefits

    Improved hair growth

    Onion oil is rich in antioxidants. They in turn reduce wear and tear in our body, hair being a part. This implies that onion oil helps the hair follicles grow back.

    Dandruff control

    Sulphur present in onion oils helps in hair growth and development. It enhances the blood flow to your hair follicles. This makes the hair thick and strong. It helps in curing bacterial infection and dandruff.

    Prevents early greying

    The nutrients in Onion prevent the cells from oxidizing and hence prevent early greying.

    Added shine to your hair

    Regular use of onion oil adds a natural shine to your hair.

    No more split ends

    My hair used to have severe split ends which make them look unhealthy and poorly maintained. The goodness of onion oil helps us in managing this.

    Products with infused onion oil

    With the increasing awareness about the goodness of onion oil. there are various hair care products with infused onion oil. However, more often than not, they will be laden with chemicals and lack the goodness of onion oil. Since I have ventured into the wellness lifestyle, I have been a supporter of all Vegan products. Hence, while opting for a skincare or haircare product, I would prefer plant-derived products. My search for authentic plant-derived products ended in Earth Raga, an ayurvedic skincare brand that is committed to nature.

    Their products are ethically sourced and their commitment to the planet and ecosystem is commendable. Their Onion Hair cleansing shampoo and Onion Hair conditioner are goodness compressed into a bottle. In addition to onion oil, the shampoo has plant keratin that prevents frizz, rosemary oil, almond oil, and ginger extract. In the conditioner, aloe vera extract, plant keratin, and pea protein are an addition to onion oil.

    Results

    I have very thin and dry hair. It has been a month since I started using the shampoo and conditioner by Earth Raga with infused onion oil. My hair has started looking considerably healthy and bouncy. It has gained its natural shine back. There are no more split ends and dryness. I also bought Ubtan Turmeric Sunscreen SPF 50 matte. The cream is lightweight and gets absorbed into the skin. My face started having less tan since I started using this sunscreen. The USP of the sunscreen is that it doesn’t leave any stickiness.

    Sunscreen

    Overall what I have noticed about the Earth Raga products is that they are committed to nurturing the planet as well as the customers. Try the products by Earth Raga which contain infused onion oil and let us know the results. Let your hair have the goodness of onion oil and let the strands grow relentlessly. Flaunt your tresses because you earned it this time.

  • Look Into These Multivitamins Composition Before Taking Your Tablet

    Look Into These Multivitamins Composition Before Taking Your Tablet

    The world is gravitating towards healthcare like never before. We are all keener to maintain health by embarking on a workout spree, gorging on raw food so that we can stay healthy, and supplementing on tablets to fulfill our nutritional requirements. The upsurge of advertisements and the recommendations by influencers – That’s it. We fall for all those that come across as remotely ‘healthy’. When they say that popping in vitamin pills would supplement you with the required nutrients, you fall for it. But are you aware of the Multivitamins Composition to ensure that you are supplied with the requisite nutrients? Let’s dive deep into the world of health supplements.

    Multivitamins compositions

    The health that is synthesized in a multivitamin plant.

    Quite often, the resounding question that we, as nutritionists, face is whether I should take multivitamin supplements. The answer to this question can be two questions.

    1. Do you take multiple servings of fresh fruits and vegetables per day? (not once in a while but every day)
    2. Does 80% of your diet consist of unprocessed or whole foods?

    If your answer is yes, you need not take any health supplements unless you have any specific ailments or deficiencies. Because a balanced diet is enough to keep you healthy. But as the present conditions stand, the soil is depleted of its natural minerals and goodness due to the continuous and inadvertent use of fertilizers. This in turn tampers with the nutritional quality of the produce. Also, we receive our fruits and vegetables after transportation.

    A lot of nutrients are lost in this process. So we cannot be rest assured of the quality of the produce that we buy from the shops. If the vegetables and fruits are produced in your backyard or they are bought from an organic farmer in your locality. Your dietary routine should be as per mentioned above, you need not take nutritional supplements. Otherwise, it would be ideal to supplement your diet because more nutrients could be lost due to overcooking and unscientific packing.

    Single vitamin and multivitamin

    Now that you have an idea about whether you should consume supplements. The next question is whether you should consume any particular vitamin or multivitamin. If you have a specific vitamin deficiency, it is advisable to take single vitamins. For instance, I have Vitamin C and Vitamin D deficiency. Hence I take supplements for these two. Though my levels are almost back to normal after my wellness lifestyle, I take supplements once in a while just in case. If you are pregnant, the gynec might prescribe folic acid, iron, and calcium supplements. Patients above 50 would be suggested Vitamin D and Calcium because their chances of having Osteoporosis are higher. Vegans are suggested Vitamin B12. But if you are an overall healthy human it is better to have the right multivitamins dosage for adults due to the following reasons.

    Single vitamins can be expensive

    If you choose to consume a separate tablet for each vitamin and mineral requirement, it would burn your pockets. Moreover, you have to pop in multiple pills instead of a single multivitamin tablet. The multivitamins multi minerals and antioxidants tablets uses are more pronounced in such scenarios.

    We don’t know how they act

    If we pop in multiple vitamin pills, we don’t know how they will react and whether one vitamin will affect the absorption of another. The medical world is still unsure about the repercussions. Multivitamin contraindications are lesser in comparison because a good multivitamin company will take into account all of these while formulating the tablets.

    Now you know whether to take single vitamins or multivitamins. Now let’s have a look at the Multivitamins Compositions which is the key factor in deciding whether the tablet we consume is beneficial or not.

    Multivitamin composition – What to look for?

    The multivitamins multiminerals and antioxidants tablets uses depend on the composition that they are formulated in. You need to know if you are consuming the synthetic drug created in a multivitamin plant or the one with the right multivitamins compositions. While all the jargon would be overwhelming for you, we shall share a few terms to look for in your supplement. Before we go further, take your multivitamin bottle and look at the label.

    Before going further let us see what are co factors. Co factors are the substances that along with the enzymes and other substances, help the nutrients to be absorbed into your body. Once you take synthetic tablets with multivitamins composition that mimic the chemical structure, they don’t get absorbed due to the lack of co-factors. However, there are other companies that go about to ensure that you are provided with bioactive (easily absorbable) forms of vitamins and minerals.

    The composition to look for

    To know the difference, let us dive deep into the multivitamins composition.

    • Vitamin B-6 -The bioactive form of B-6 is Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate but if you look at the label, most of the commercial tablets available have Pyridoxine HCL, which is the synthetic form and would be ejected through urine.
    • Vitamin B-12 – The bioactive form of B-12 methylcobalamine but most tablets have cyanocobalamin in their tablets. This is the cheaper version and is not the bioactive form
    • Vitamin B-9 – For Vitamin B-9 or folate, the bioactive form is L-5 Methyltetrahydrofolate
    • Minerals – Minerals are mostly poorly absorbed unless combined with the chelate. Most companies don’t provide chelated minerals.

    Some companies skip the addition of bioactive forms of the vitamins. In such cases, without any further research, you can be assured that the product is synthetic because the companies that go the extra mile to provide you with bioactive multivitamins mention that on the label. We don’t want any unnecessary fillers like gluten, yeast, artificial colors lactose, etc. The components that you might want to look for are cellulose and silicon dioxide which are natural.

    The dosage matters

    Another key factor is the dosage. We need a continuous supply of nutrients in our body. Though it is not practicable to take 5-6 dosages of the tablet per day at least two doses is a must. If a company is asking you to pop only one pill and go about the day, you can be assured that their Multivitamins Composition is as good as not. The website multivitamin guide has a comprehensive list of approved multivitamins. For more assistance about your diet, you can take our diet plans and start formulating healthy eating habits.

    This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
    hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

  • 4 Smoothies Recipes For Breakfast For An   Energetic Start

    4 Smoothies Recipes For Breakfast For An Energetic Start

    Smoothies have gained acceptance in the world of health. With the right mix of balanced nutrients, the smoothies ensure you are provided with a diet that ensures you remain healthy and fit. Post covid the search for foods that are good for the lungs has been the trend. With life going faster, cooking for a separate diet plan gets into your hair because who has time for donning the chef’s cap? The easy exit from the irritating cooking job is to have smoothies. Hence presenting to you smoothies recipes for breakfast. Save your time and energy while you ingest the goodness of vegetables and fruits. They let you have guilt-free indulgence because they are equally scrumptious and healthy.

    Smoothies Recipes For Breakfast

    Smoothies Recipes for Breakfast

    As I am following the satvic lifestyle I have been trying smoothies for a while. We are providing you smoothies recipes for breakfast and also for the days when you are on a smoothie diet. You could have them as smoothies or juice them up depending on the time of the day you are trying to have them. Smoothies provide you with ample fibre while juices lack the fiber content. However the juice is what you have first thing in the morning, then it is better to avoid smoothies and stick to juices. Before we jump into the recipe let us address the most commonly asked question. Are smoothies good for you?

    Benefits of smoothies

    1. Saves time

    When you are on a diet, it is difficult to cook all the fancy ‘so-called’ healthy diet which has ingredients that are not even appropriate for the Indian climate and seasons. If you are working or a parent with small children cooking something separately for you can be taxing. So just grind them up and gulp them down.

    2. Aids digestion

    As opposed to the juices smoothies are rich in fibre. The fibre content enhances the bowel movement thereby improving the digestion of food. If you make smoothies with almond milk or coconut water, it hydrates your body, flushes out the toxins, and regulates the body temperature.

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    3. Helps in weight loss

    Smoothie diet can be incorporated by anyone in their diet. However, it has become the trend once the benefits of smoothies in weight loss have become known to laymen. Smoothies ensure you get the nutrients required without adding calories to your diet.

    4. Nutrient-rich

    Smoothies are rich in nutrients. Since you are using multiple fruits and vegetables, the smoothies are rich in various nutrients. As you customise your smoothie the nutrients that you receive are varied.

    4 Smoothies Recipes for breakfast – Begin your day with a bang

    1. ABC Smoothie

    smoothies recipes for breakfast - ABC Smoothie

    ABC Smoothie

    ABC smoothie is a powerful detox smoothie with the goodness of Apples, Beetroots and Carrot. Apple is rich in Vitamin E, polyphenols, bio active contents, and antioxidants. Beetroot is rich in Vit B9 and Folate. It also contains nitric oxide which increases bloof flow to your muscles. It contains beta carotene which aids the body in digestion and absorption of votamin A. It is useful for healthy vision, weightloss and improving immunity.
    4.50 from 10 votes
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Calories 137 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • Apple
    • Beetroot
    • 3 Carrots
    • 1 tsp Honey Optional
    • 1 tsp Grater ginger Optional
    • A pinch Salt Optional

    Instructions
     

    • Peel and chop the apple, beetroot and carrot. Blend then in a mixer. Add honey and grated ginger and blend again. Add a pinch of salt. Your smoothie is ready. Transferit to a glass/mug and serve fresh.

    2. Ashgourd Smoothie

    smoothies recipes for breakfast - Ashgourd smoothie

    Ashgourd Smoothie

    4.50 from 10 votes

    Equipment

    • 1 Blender

    Ingredients
      

    • ½ Ashgourd
    • 4-5 Soaked almonds
    • 1 tsp lemon juice

    Instructions
     

    • Peel and chop the aashgourd and almonds. Blend then in a mixer. Add lemon juice and stir well. Your smoothie is ready. Transferit to a smoothie glass/mug and serve fresh.

    3. Green smoothie

    smoothies recipes for breakfast - Green smoothie

    Green smoothie

    This is a smoothie that can be counted as complete diet
    4.50 from 10 votes

    Equipment

    • 1 Blender

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup Spinach fresh and chopped
    • ½ banana
    • 1 mango cut into cubes
    • 1/4 cup Almond milk
    • 1 Orange

    Instructions
     

    • Peel and chop the banana, mango and almonds. Chop the spinach. Blend them in a mixer. Add lemon juice and stir well. Your smoothie is ready. Transfer it to a smoothie glass/mug and serve fresh.
    • Orange can be substituted with lemon juice. Likewise almond milk can be substituted with coconut water or coconut milk

    4. Golden Glow Smoothie

    Smoothies Recipes for Breakfast

    Golden Glow Smoothie

    It is a colorful, tasty and creamy smoothie rich in Vitamin C and Beta Carotene. It boosts the immune system and energy levels.
    4.50 from 10 votes

    Equipment

    • 1 Blender

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Carrot grated
    • 1 cup Orange/Musambi deseeded
    • 1 Papaya chopped
    • ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
    • ½ tsp Ginger grated

    Instructions
     

    • Peel, de-seed and chop the papaya and grate the carrot. Peel and de seed the orange.
    • Blend them in a mixer along with turmeric powder and ginger. Your smoothie is ready. Transfer it to a smoothie glass/mug and serve fresh.

    The smoothies recipes for breakfast can be customized as per the availability of fruits and vegetables. By consuming these you can ensure that your nutrient requirements are met while you make sure to lose weight in the process.

    @rakhijayashankar The copyright of the content belongs to Rakhi Jayashankar and cannot be republished or repurposed without the express permission of the owner.

    This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
    hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Outset Books.

  • Happinetz Ensures Internet Safety For Kids

    Happinetz Ensures Internet Safety For Kids

    Increased screen time in kids has become the reason for mothers’ sleepless nights. During and after the pandemic the kids are using online learning resources more than before. It has also pulled our kids into a whirlpool of addictive virtual reality. While family time and reading time take a back seat, internet safety for kids has slithered into the minds of mothers, occupying their thoughts. There is a dilemma of not being able to monitor kids enough and at the same time, not wanting to be a prying mother when it comes to internet usage and screen time. That’s when Happinetz became the 2 a.m. friend to the mother who can share this humongous burden of guilt and helplessness.

    Internet Safety For Kids

    No two kids are the same. While my sons love to play Roblox, my daughter likes K dramas. On one hand, the thought of whether they meet strangers through interactive games gnawed in my mind. On the other hand, the worry about whether the series my daughter was watching was age-appropriate was overwhelming me. I wanted to have a check on all these without pressuring them or invading their privacy. So, I didn’t want to go about blocking all browsers, on all devices. I wanted some space where I could monitor them in one place.

    While I was thinking about a solution for my never-ending worry, I got hold of  Happinetz, which provides safe internet for kids and helps with screen time management. It was a huge relief. 

    Stress-free monitoring

    Being a Happinetz parent, I feel empowered to get a solution that’s easy. The installation process is very simple. All you have to do is connect your Happinetz Box to your home router, download the app on your phone, and add the devices that your children use. You can set screen time schedules as per your child’s age and need.  

    Additionally, the content the children can now access is age-appropriate and secure. After I installed Happinetz my kids could open only age-appropriate games on any device. By default, they are not able to open certain inappropriate apps that they tried earlier. I can also check the Insights of their internet usage at my convenience without the conflict of telling kids what to use and what not to.

    As my kids have ADHD, controlling their screen time was much needed because as their doctor told me, screen time and hyperactivity are directly related. The first step of the ADHD therapy, their doctor said, is to keep a check on their screen time. This is because the fast movement on the screen would force their brain to run faster. With Happinetz, I am able to enforce screen time rules with ease and without any arguments.

    Easy Management

    With Happinetz, the advantage is that I don’t have to log into each device to check what they are accessing. I am able to check Insights for up to 10 devices in the household through one parent app. With this, Happinetz has created a new benchmark for internet safety for kids.

    What touched me is that it is designed from a parent’s point of view. They know what we need and provide it in a single place. There’s only one app installed on the parent phone and nothing is installed on your child’s devices. They just need to be connected to Happinetz WiFi.

    Internet safety for kids across devices

    As I said before, my kids have different likes and dislikes. With Happinetz I could ensure internet safety for kids with ease as it is applicable to all browsers, devices, and even TV. This was the most promising surprise for me because, with the onset of smart TV, it’s difficult for parents to check what children are watching. But with Happinetz, I can be stress-free about what they’re watching.

    No more unsafe content 

    Every day, new social media platforms, unsecured websites, and apps are sprouting. I am not even aware of many of them but my kids are so curious that they want to see and feel everything new. However, so much of this content can be age-inappropriate and unsafe.  With Happiness, I don’t need to worry at all. More than 110 million websites and apps are being monitored and tracked as per the system and more than 22 million adult and unsecured websites and apps are blocked by default by Happinetz.

    Multi-level filtering technology

    We cannot take our kids out of the world of the internet in the name of internet safety for kids. They need to explore, do assignments, and independently handle their tasks with the help of the Internet. It is unfair to say that using the internet is bad for our kids. With Happinetz we can let our kids explore the world of knowledge without even accidentally stumbling upon inappropriate content. With multi-level filtering technology, Happinetz has ensured that all popular and well-known methods of bypassing the system have been taken care of.

    Privacy

    While using any app, infringement of privacy has been my highest point of worry. But  Happinetz doesn’t collect any personal data on kid’s devices. This is the most important highlight if you ask me.

    No judgement

    While the thin line between gentle parenting and unmonitored parenting has started to blur and social media talks about excessive parental control,  I was worried about being judged. But with Happinetz I feel supported in my journey to provide internet safety to my kids.

    Happinetz

    Ease of use

    The only thing to get internet safety for kids is to install Happinetz and download the app. Once the app is set in your phone, the rest is sorted.

    With exhaustive filtering, a customizable internet schedule, and insights that enable the parent to check which websites their child used and for how long, Happinetz has transformed into my go-to friend and therapist who has the solution for the root cause of the problem.

    I have been trying to enforce a routine to keep my kids’ hyperactive brains on track but to make them turn off the devices after coming back from school was a stress inducer for me. But since the devices have turned off as per the schedule now, this chaos is also sorted. Now that I can schedule their screen time they have ample time to play with each other, read books, and connect with nature.

    A small gift from me

    Now that you know the ins and outs of the benefits of Happinetz, I’m sure you can’t wait to ensure internet safety for kids. While you are at it, you get a special discount by clicking here. Get your Happinetz Box and say bye-bye to your worries because they have got you covered with their Safe Internet for Kids

  • Learn Money Management And Planning By Playing Online Games With Friends

    Learn Money Management And Planning By Playing Online Games With Friends

    We live in the digital era where screen time has no longer become a matter of concern. Not because screentime took a positive turn but because we have accepted the reality of the new normal. The pandemic opened a new magical world of digital happiness. When we accept the inevitable, we need to find a way around maximizing the positive aspects of screen time. But how? By tapping into the right avenue! Because we wanted to enable our kids to have a pragmatic future and instill the qualities of savings and planning. After the lockdown, we were trying to get a home for ourselves and wanted to calculate the mortgage for the same. But the search gave us two avenues, one of which is calculating mortgage. What is the next? Will you believe if I tell you that your kids can learn life skills, money management, and planning by playing online games with friends.

    Online Games with Friends

    Online games with Friends

    While I realized that keeping my at bay was impossible I decided to at least find some games that could be educating. None of the word games and puzzles could hold their interest. Conincidentally we stumbled upon the money games in mortgage calculator. The games on this website are all online financial video games for kids. They provide us with real estate games, money games, grocery store games, environmental games, and more. Let’s have a look at some of the games that we played.

    Environmental games

    The games present us with activities like energy preservation, rescue extraction from the forest, sorting the trash, bin recycling, and other fun games like banana runs and more.

    Wind and Solar

    Wind and solar is about creating maximum energy but adjusting the windmill and solar panel as per the wind and rain in the area. The panel needs to be moved away from the clouds and rain. We also need to adjust the height of the windmill as per the direction in which the wind is blowing. Kids learn about two energy production methods in such a way that they will never forget.

    Sort the trash

    Sort the trash is yet another environment game where we need to move the trash can to capture the recyclable waste. The game gives an idea of recycling and helps them understand which are recyclable waste. For instance, we might think we can put ceramic ware in recyclable cans where they are not. Also, the disposable coffee cup. Like wise when we wrongly click any non recyclable item, we get a warning. On repeatedly playing the game, the kids and adults learn recycling at the base level. This helps us in reducing the usage of non recyclable products thereby committing to the environment. Play these online games with friends and create awareness.

    Money Games

    Kids should learn how to handle money at a young age. Money games in Mortgage calculator helps them to learn the give and take and get used to the transactions. While calculating the balance and collecting the money they involuntarily learn calculations as well.

    Cashier game

    In this game, we act as the cashier, prepare the bill, collect cash and coins and give the balance back to the customer. There is calculator as well. When we collect the cash and coins and calculate, we are indeed practicing our math skills.

    Simulation Games

    They also have real time simulation games. Simulation games are the most popular and engaging ones for playing online games with friends. They give us real time experience of activities with a 3D projection. There are options to upgrade various activities as well.

    There are more options for the online game lovers with real time gaming experience. Since these are all games connected to daily life, parents can be rest assured that their kids are learning something related to life skills. Kids can be happy that they are playing online games with friends.