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 – 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
‘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’.
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.
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
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
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.
No one is untouched by the hands of stressors. Those who work are always under the pressure of deadlines, peer pressure, career advancement pressures, and whatnot. Students undergo academic pressure, parental expectations, competition and so much more. Women too need to balance a lot between their work and household responsibilities. In today’s fast-paced society, stress has become an ever-present and significant aspect of the modern world. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary life, we face a multitude of challenges that can trigger stress, such as job pressures, financial worries, social demands, and technology overload. While stress is a natural response designed to protect us, chronic and overwhelming stress can have adverse effects on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. To lead a healthier and more balanced life, it is crucial to delve deeper into the root causes of stress and adopt effective strategies in managing stress.
This blog post will explore the anatomy of stress, identify common stressors in the modern world, analyze the impact of chronic stress on health, provide practical techniques for stress management, discuss the importance of cultivating resilience, and emphasize the value of seeking professional help when needed.
The Anatomy of Stress
Before we delve into stress management techniques, it is essential to understand the biological and psychological underpinnings of stress. Stress is a complex response triggered by the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, preparing the body for a fight-or-flight situation. This response, while necessary in dangerous situations, can be counterproductive when faced with chronic stressors. The limbic system and the amygdala in the brain play a pivotal role in processing stress. Understanding the science behind stress helps us recognize its influence on our bodies and minds, making it easier to manage effectively.
Identifying Stressors in the Modern World
The modern world presents us with a plethora of stressors that can affect us physically, emotionally, and mentally. It is important to identify and acknowledge these stressors to address them effectively. Some common stressors in today’s society include:
a. Work-related stress:
The pressure to meet deadlines, achieve targets, and maintain a work-life balance can lead to burnout and increased stress levels.
b. Financial stress:
Economic instability, debt, and the pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle contribute to financial stress.
c. Social stress:
Social media and societal expectations can create feelings of inadequacy, leading to social stress and anxiety.
d. Technological stress:
Constant connectivity and the fear of missing out (FOMO) can leave us feeling anxious and mentally drained.
e. Environmental stress:
Issues like climate change and natural disasters add an extra layer of stress to our lives.
By understanding these stressors, we can take proactive steps to manage and mitigate their impact on our well-being.
The Impact of Chronic Stress on Health
Chronic stress can take a toll on both our physical and mental health. Prolonged exposure to stress hormones can lead to a weakened immune system, digestive problems, cardiovascular issues, and even mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. The impact of stress on health should not be underestimated, as it can significantly decrease our quality of life and hinder our ability to function optimally. Recognizing the long-term consequences of stress motivates us to prioritize stress management.
Effective Strategies in Managing Stress
a. Mindfulness and Meditation:
Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help us stay present and focused, reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, while meditation focuses on training the mind to redirect thoughts. It is one of the most practical strategies in managing stress and finding inner calm.
b. Physical Activity:
Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, and can enhance mood and overall health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or hitting the gym, physical activity is an excellent way to combat stress.
c. Time Management:
Organizing our time effectively and setting realistic goals can prevent feelings of being overwhelmed by responsibilities. Prioritizing tasks and breaking them down into manageable chunks can help reduce stress related to time constraints.
d. Social Support:
Building a support network of friends and family provides a buffer against stress and allows for open communication about our feelings. Sharing our experiences and seeking support from loved ones can significantly alleviate stress and be helpful in sharing Strategies in managing stress with others.
e. Limiting Technology Use:
Taking regular breaks from screens and setting boundaries for technology use can improve mental clarity and reduce stress. Disconnecting from digital devices can create space for relaxation and reduce the anxiety caused by constant connectivity.
f. Relaxation Techniques:
Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and engaging in hobbies that bring joy can help reduce stress levels. Relaxation techniques allow the body and mind to unwind and recharge.
g. Healthy Lifestyle:
Adopting a balanced diet, ensuring sufficient sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption contribute to better stress management. A healthy lifestyle forms a solid foundation for managing stress effectively.
Cultivating Resilience
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges and adapt positively to adversity. Cultivating resilience enables us to better cope with stress and embrace change. Techniques for building resilience include:
a. Fostering a Growth Mindset:
Embracing a growth mindset, which focuses on learning and growing from challenges, allows us to perceive setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures.
b. Maintaining Optimism:
Cultivating optimism enables us to maintain a positive outlook, even in difficult times. This positive mindset can help us find solutions to problems and build emotional strength.
c. Learning from Setbacks:
Viewing setbacks as learning experiences helps us develop problem-solving skills and emotional resilience. Embracing failures as stepping stones to success can transform how we perceive stress.
d. Seeking Meaning:
Finding meaning and purpose in challenging experiences can provide a sense of direction and help us navigate stressful situations with a greater sense of purpose and resolve.
Seeking Professional Help
While self-help techniques can be powerful, seeking professional help is essential for those experiencing chronic and debilitating stress in addition to the strategies in managing stress. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can offer valuable guidance and support in managing stress and addressing underlying issues. Professional assistance provides an outside perspective and specialized tools for managing stress effectively.
Wrapping up
Understanding and applying strategies in managing stress in the modern world is a multifaceted journey that requires self-awareness, perseverance, and a commitment to overall well-being. By recognizing the sources of stress, employing effective stress management techniques, and fostering resilience, we can protect our physical and mental health, and ultimately lead a more fulfilling life with reduced stress levels. Embracing a holistic approach that combines physical, emotional, and mental well-being allows us to navigate the challenges of the modern world and achieve a balanced and fulfilling existence. Remember, stress is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to dominate our existence; we have the power to take charge and live a life that embraces balance and well-being.
About the Author
This post, The Strategies in managing stress, is written by Jaishree Nenwani. She is the author of a self-help book “Tiny Habits Massive Results”. Based out of New Delhi, India Jaishree is an Author, blogger, and homepreneur. She is passionate about journaling and loves to share wisdom and journaling tools that invoke deeper authenticity and Personal transformation. She writes about Self-improvement, Personal growth, and ways to become happier in your life. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Linkedin.
Views expressed in this post are personal and for reading purpose only. They’re not medical advice. Each individual’s experience may vary. Please consult a professional if you need help.”
Karma! I have always visualized it as a daughter-in-law in the patriarchal family setup or in our daily sops, so to speak. You ask me why? Because come what may, anything that happens in your household or life, Karma is to be blamed. Karma is that easy outlet to pin the failures, disappointments, and lack of motivation. While we are at it, Karma would play its role for not putting up enough effort to overcome the challenges that come our way. To stay at the top of the game, we have to be in charge of our life and the challenges I have overcome as an SAHM have been immense. But to stay at the top of the game I had to. How to overcome a challenge as an SAHM?
While battling PPD after my second delivery, I used to visualize myself as a helpless soul sunken in a pit of despair. The thought that I am wasting my life, by changing nappies, was ingrained in my mind. As a Stay at home mom, I was conditioned to think that my life’s purpose was to raise healthy kids and maintain my home. But six years down the line, the realization dawned on me that I cannot let my caliber go in vain and I could simultaneously do my job as a mother without fail. How did I overcome a challenge and start afresh by staying at home for six years? Here are the basic steps I took and they became key points in the challenges I have overcome.
Recognise own’s worth
After spending years confined to home, my confidence had taken a hit. I believed that I lost my talent and perseverance. But when I decided to give life a second chance, I introspected and all I could think of was to write. I started writing poems again. Poems to short stories and finally a novel – when did my talent expand its horizon is still unknown to me.
If you are trying to resume your career, and are unsure where to start, you should start by noting down your strengths. While you enjoy your passion and convert it into a career. With social media at its hype, you can start by pitching for an online opportunity. There are numerous avenues out there. It’s all about where you look.
Plan ahead
We must have a solid foolproof plan to get past the competitive world. This is where journaling and manifestation helps.
Journaling
A journal is like your best friend. You can tell anything to a journal but when you talk to a journal make sure you address yourself with respect and positive ambitions. Note down your strengths and weaknesses. Point out your opportunities and challenges. Have multiple action plans as to how you are going to start because if something didn’t materialise, we should have something else to tap into. Search for opportunities that match your skill set.
Manifestation
If there is something that I blindly believe, it is the power of the law of attraction. Manifesting, your goals, putting it on paper, doing gratitude journal and visualizing it while you work on your goal. The manifestation has been stated in one line but to put it into action intensive brainstorming and perseverance is a must.
Talk to yourself
As weird as it sounds, talking to yourself gives you immense confidence, pushes you forward and instils a go getter attitude inside you. You might err in your process of getting back to your work regime but as a good friend, tell yourself where you faltered and how to rectify. A friend in need is a friend indeed. Be your best friend.
Learn to say NO
However difficult it seems, the power of telling no cannot be replaced with any alternative. When opportunities knock at your door, don’t jump at the first call. Pursue your opportunities, weigh the pros and cons, meanwhile pitch into other possibilities. But immense care needs to be invested in saying No without offending anyone because we never know if we have to go back to them at any point.
Share the load
The most foolish mistake that majority women make is to do everything themselves. Delegation is a virtue that you must master, be it a workspace or home. Ask your partner to share the load if you are the sole responsible one in the relationship. If you are single, modify your life to suit your career. If your kids are grown up, say 8 years and above, ask them to take responsibility for some household chores. The bottom line is that we should not be the only one responsible for the household.
Now that you know how to break the SAHM inertia, start from the basics first and slowly build the momentum. The challenges I have overcome might come across to you as something that every other woman faces. But the fact that it is common doesn’t make it light. You would be there but you might not realise because you are used to hearing ‘we have been through worse’. This is a sad reality that they all had it worse but shant we make it better for us?
As the year was going by, it was time for my retrospection and introspection. Should I write my gratitude for the year that is bidding adieu or should I look forward to the new year? After mulling over this, I thought, well I am a law of attraction coach. Why not use it for my coming year. So I decided to write New Year messages for myself.
Last year has been the most happening year for me. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Coach, Law of Attraction Coach, CBT Coach, Certificate Course in Aromatherapy, Positive Psychology Life Coach, Hypnotherapy Practitioner, Diploma in ADHD Management, Fibromyalgia Management, Yoga Nidra Teacher, Pranayama Teacher, Diploma in Diet Planning, Diploma in Intermittent Fasting, REBT Coach, Mindfulness Life Coach, Eye Yoga Teacher, Tantra Reiki Master, Psychology Diploma in Anxiety and Panic Attack, Face Yoga Teacher, Yin Yoga Teacher, EFT – TFT Tapping, Ayurvedic Life Guru, Diploma in Nutrition Course, Aura and Chakra Healing Coach, Yoga Teacher Training, Pranic Healing Course, Reiki Master Certification, Facial Reflexology Practitioner, NLP Master Practioner, Chakra Healing Teacher, Meditation Teacher – Phew!! Did I actually do these many courses in a year, which in turn helped me with the wellness programs? How did I do this?
New Year Messages
Thanks to Swarnali, because of whom, I actually checked how many courses I did. With all the gratitude to this woman who made me retrospect and introspect, here are the New Year messages I write for myself. Some of the messages are my way of encouraging myself and some are my gratitude messages. As you know when we apply the law of attraction in our lives we assume that our goal has been achieved and express gratitude for something that has happened in my universe of manifestation which lies in the future.
1. May the next year be better than the one that went by
Last year has been the year of learning. 2023 would be the year to apply what I learned.
2. Congrats on being a successful life coach of 2023
My greatest manifestation for the year 2023 is to be a successful life coach who changes others’ lives. So my gratitude would be to the universe for enabling me attain this which I am sure I would.
3. You became the top book review blogger and you deserve it.
How much ever I grow or become successful, deep inside I would be a book reviewer in terms of career. Because everything started there. My first payment was Rs.100/- for the book review by a top website of those times. Now I do paid and unpaid reviews, conduct review programs and run a book club but above all this, I want to see my Outset Books among the top 10 book review blogs in India.
4. You are a beautiful human being and the year has become the best because you entered the lives of people
I look forward to changing lives like how my learning changed mine. The world is a beautiful place to be and 2023, be the year of smiles. I would be honored if I could be the reason that smile emerges on the lips of at least one person.
5. You are the best mother
To the best mother, you might lose your cool sometimes but know that it doesn’t make you a bad mother but it makes you human. I have always been on a guilt trip after shouting at my kids or losing my cool. But now I know that it makes me human and there is no need to be guilty until I have myself under control.
6. You are the best partner
To the best wife, your love is what makes your relationship what it is. Love even more and be in your best space of peace. No relationships are perfect but when the imperfections become the lock and key for each other it opens the door to a beautiful life. These days in the name of toxicity, adjustments in relations are overlooked. Know that no person is perfect and not everyone is toxic. There are several red flags to look for before judging your relationship. Sometimes a simple adjustment can save you a beautiful relation.
7. The world is a beautiful space to be
Thank you universe for making this world beautiful and giving us immense power to wade through the waves. As much as I revel in the achievements of 2022, there have been several losses and disappointments. But by now I learned how to wade through these tides and thanks to the universal power that urged me to move forward. I believe in Universal Power and hence I am religious but I don’t believe in a religion. So, all thanks to the universe and everything that entails within.
These new year messages are reminders that the year would not be easy but with perseverance and optimism, we can conquer the world. This blog post is a part of the #LetsSayHello2023 blogging activity by Swarnali Nath.
For the longest time, I have been asked about the details of the programs. Every time I try to explain to everyone in person, I end up fumbling because every time what it means for me changes as per what state of mind I am in. So I thought, let’s get it documented. All about my wellness programs, just for you.
Wellness programs by Holistic Wellness with RJ
Last two years I have been on a learning spree and time and again I was two steps behind starting something. But yes there has to be something that I could go forward with and thus I started the 21 day wellness program.
1. 21 Days Wellness Program
21-day wellness program is an integrated program I curated after incorporating everything I have learned. Journaling, aromatherapy, EFT tapping, facial reflexology, mindfulness, ayurvedic diet. This program gives you one new habit to add to your routine for 21 days. The highlight of the program is that by the end of 21 days, you will emerge as a positive person who views life differently.
If you are someone who is finding it difficult to cope with your absentmindedness, self-defeating thoughts, feeling of not being valued, lack of self-worth, and loneliness. This program lets you look deeply into yourself and help you understand yourself.
This is done in a batch of three blocks – 4 days each. You will have a sentence completion exercise. The same set of sentences should be repeated for 4 days and then comes the next block. Along with sentence completion, we do mindful eating, mindful living, and box meditation (samvridhi pranayam). After the 12th day, you will further rewire your life with various mindfulness exercises.
We have a wellness combo integrating the 21 days wellness, 21 days gratitude and 21 days mindfulness programs. You can either do both together and one after the other. The choice is all yours.
7 days of face yoga is done in the form of recorded videos for the first six days. On the 7th day at the time of convenience, we get on a video call to bring everything together and do everything that we learned together.
As you are already privy, I am a huge supporter of the Ayurvedic way of living. No! This is not an ayurvedic treatment. But we decide your diet based on your Ayurvedic body constitution. Also, we get on a call to know your routine, family meal time, preferred cuisine etc. We don’t believe in a fancy diet, we go for a practical diet which you can cook on the go or integrate into your routine.
This is a detailed and integrated program with all our programs alng with life coching for 6 months. We address Physical, Emotional, Mental, Intellectual, Occupational and Economic wellness.
The law of attraction is what brings success to your doorstep. Be it visualisation, journaling or meditation, we are making use of the law of attraction principles to bring the clients closer to their goals.
We get on a call with the client to know your body type, lifestyle and routine. We give either our prerecorded workout or the videos available on social media. Different workouts per day.
Now that you have checked out all our programs, you know which one to sign up for. Sign up for your favourite wellness program and start your journey towards peace and happiness.
Everyone has a goal in their life. We keep searching for how to achieve a goal or ensure success, but we often forget that what we achieve needs our subconscious support and conscious effort. This is where the law of attraction comes into the picture. Through manifestation visualisation, we visualise our future and manifest ourselves attaining the goal while continuing to write the gratitude journal presuming that we have already achieved it. This is a beautiful journey where we attract universal energy and bring it in alignment with what we need from our life.
Manifestation Visualisation – How to do it?
I have always been an advocate of visualisation and visualisation meditation. However, Manifestation Visualisation under the Law of attraction is a process of assuming that your goal has been achieved so as to convince your subconscious mind and the universal every to come in alignment.
1. Find a SMART goal
If you wish to earn one crore in one hour, it is an impossible take. While with the Law of Attraction we are telling about how to make the impossible possible, we should not the goals that are unrealistic. Come on! You know what I mean. Also, make sure the intention is right. The goals should be framed such that it benefits someone and harms none.
2. Create a plan and start execution
You should know what to do if you want to attain the goal. The steps to be taken should be laid out in a systematic fashion with as much specificity as possible and you should be doing the first step immediately. Eg: If you want to buy a car, you should do a test drive first. If you with to get a job, create a resume first.
3. Visualise your Success
While you are at it start visualising your sucess with visualisation meditation, guided hypnosis, Yoga nidra or any such methods. In addition, you should visualise every step that you take to attain your goal. The idea is to bring the universal energy closer to your goal.
4. Gratitude journal
Now that you have a plan, and have done the visualisation, you have to write down the points that you have done assuming that you have already achieved the goal. It can be done in pointers or as a story with you as a main character. While you are it this manifestation visualisation materialises into you gratitude journal where you thank the universe for letting you attain the goal . Eg: Thank you universe for letting me get my favorite car.
5. Have positive people around
While you try to attain your goal try not to spend your time with people you drain your positivity and surround yourself with negative energy. Because, the more positive aura you keep around yourself, the faster the results would be.
6. Be patient
The most common mistake that people do is to give up easily after some time. There is an effective analogy that my tutor often say. You keep a tumbler full of water to boil. You turn on the heat and wait for sometime. But you see nothing and turn off the heat. Will the water boil? No! But will you blame the stove or tumbler for this? No, because you know it takes certain amount of time to attain this. Likewise you cannot give up after trying for some time. You have to learn to wait.
Manifestation visualisation is a proven effort. It is no magic as many of you mioght have thought. You have to work to attain your goal while manifesting and writing the gratitide journal. Join our 21 days gratitude challenge so as to train and rewire your brain to bring the universal energy at your dispersal.
For the longest time, I have counted those who use Indian toilets as obsolete folks who don’t get updated. Who would want to squat on tacky spaces and wash the bum the old-fashioned way when we can simply sit and spray, you know what I mean? But more often than not, my megalomaniac updated lifestyle took a backseat and I learned some things are better done the old-fashioned way like defecation aka pooping. And with shock, I realized that of the toilet styles, the kind of toilets India brought forward is the best for your gut health as well as overall wellness. Let’s see how.
Toilets India introduced in the market
The introduction of civilized defecation dates back to the Harappan times. During the Vedic period, clearing the excreta was reserved as a job for a separate section of society. which you all might have learned from history textbooks. But in those days the Indian toilets that we see today or its analog were used by the kings and the elite. Through centuries, the system was taken over by the other sections but on all occasions, defecation by squatting was the way to flush out the waste in the body.
Slowly the toilets termed Indian toilets were introduced into the market and the rest is history. But over the years we saw the prevalence of European toilets was hiking and the use of the toilets India was credited for ceased to exist, well almost. As a result, our overall gut health is. for which India was known for, went downhill. While European toilets are convenient, especially for the older generations and the ones with leg issues, the advantages of Indian toilets outrun everything. So if you ask me which toilet seat is the best, Indian or Western? My answer would invariably be the former.
Had this been my grandmother telling me, I would have snubbed it as an outlook of an old, outdated lady. But yes it has been scientifically proven that Indian toilets are better. Let’s see why
1. Personal hygiene
Without a doubt, my first point in preferring the Indian toilet style would be personal hygiene especially while using public toilets. Instead of splurging disinfectant spray and sprawling tissues over the toilet seats, we can squat and get it done. No more worries about getting an infection from the toilet.
2. Better Digestion
Since you are defecating in a squatting position, your puborectalis muscles that help in pushing the still out are compressed. This way there is pressure to push the stool completely out without any reminiscence and that too in no time. The largely improves your bowel health.
3. Lesser use of water
The European toilets waste liters of water while flushing wherein Indian toilets save water and tissues for that matter. So you are saving the environment while choosing to squat.
4. Reduces colon cancer
The common cause of colon cancer is improper defecation. As mentioned above the squatting position makes sure that the excreta is removed totally, this reduced the chance of colon cancer.
5. Good pregnant women
It is believed that using Indian toilets regularly helps women considerably if they are going for a natural delivery. Also, it doesn’t put any pressure on the uterus
6. Your daily squats
Using Indian toilets contributes to your share of squats and gives a good stretch and helps in strengthening your hamstrings.
Let us embrace the toilets India has been using back again and embrace our health. For more health and wellness posts and updates, keep following Holistic wellness with RJ and Rakhi Jayashankar.
When I started my wellness journey there was a lot of information. From Life Coaching to NLP to CBT, REBT, and more, I have never given myself a break in learning. As much as I enjoy learning and applying the principles that I knew, nothing came in handy than training in NLP. I urge to take this journey down the alley of words, thoughts, and beliefs.
What is NLP?
NLP’s full form is Neuro Linguistic Programming. Neuro-Linguistic programming means rearranging and rewiring our thoughts and actions by organizing our thoughts, and behavior. It using submodalities, presuppositions, and meta-models, the practitioner creates a map of your mental process, using which they create a framework of our beliefs, values, and purposes. Knowing yourself and knowing the other person is the key to finding the solution. NLP helps in curing conditions like phobias, fear, anxiety, depression, etc.
1. The 1,2,3 s of NLP are
Action/ Reaction – The situation, or incident that is the source and trigger is the activating event. The action or reaction to the activating event is what brings the client to you in the first place.
Beliefs/values – The framework of beliefs, values, and rules that keep them stuck in the problem at hand.
Change – We can’t change people unless and until they are ready for the change. But we can be the contributor towards the change. Once they realize the beliefs and values behind the action/ reaction we help them change it.
2. Meta models
By changing the language pattern we can’t rewire the thought process of the client as a practitioner. This is probably the key factor in my training in NLP that has the maximum impact on the client and myself. Changing the negative thought pattern to a positive one is the first part of the metamodel. From shouldn’t to should, mustn’t to must and it goes on. Another aspect that we need to address is the mindreading habit of the subject. Eg. he doesn’t like me, I know what you are talking about. These are some assumptions that humans reach without real proof but turn into beliefs. Another aspect is to make the client tell themselves to realize the cause of something that has come into effect.
Digging deeper into generalizations and preset beliefs is the basis of the meta-models and NLP at large. Anither aspect to address is complex equivalence. Eg. You don’t listen to me, so you don’t love me. Connecting two different aspects and reaching an assumption. Another aspect is presuppositions about how another person thinks and perceives. Another generalization aspect is universal quantifiers where we use words like never and always to explain someone’s behavior by generalizing it. The next aspect is nominalization wherein they use adverbs that nominalize the actual action. We shift the responsibility away and an NLP practitioner helps you to shift it back to the action and helps you take responsibility by bringing it back to the detail. The next step is to dive in and get the details of unspecified verbs. Like ‘hurt’ – he hurt me without telling “What exactly did he do”. So going in too with unspecified words like hurt, embarrassed, and disappointed is primary.
Final and probably the most complicated aspect of NLP is simple deletions and comparative deletions. Eg: I’m fed up (fed up with what). She is better than me ( who is she and what is she better at.
While I was training in NLP, association, and disassociation is what helped me the most. This is the continuation of meta models. Associate the client with a negative emotion and then disassociate and ask them to see it from a third-person perspective like they are seeing it on a projector. With this practice, they see better and view the situation from a zoomed-out state. Then bring the ideal opposite like a calm and relaxed state.
4. Anchoring
When you have a repeated trigger point, you anchor to it. Be it anger, sadness, or any negative emotion we anchor the trigger to it. A particular incident happens during your high emotional state and subconsciously, your brain relates to the particular incident with the emotion. The task of NLP practitioners is to create the anchor, stack it, and finally collapse it. Another practice is to create a positive emotional state, fully associate with it and anchor it to action. By repeating this you can use the anchor to collapse the anchor of negative emotion.
5. Eliciting timelines and levels of consciousness
From blaming others for everything that happens in life, we switch to a level where we learn to take responsibility. Further, we change life on our terms. At last, we submit ourselves to the ultimate power. Is that it? No! This is just half of what NLP is all about in nutshell. Further, we deal with the clients, values, beliefs, and purposes, know more about them, and divert negative and defeating thoughts and beliefs into positive ones.
Training in NLP is a vast practice that helps in changing lives magically without medication. It is often considered as pseudo-science by conventional but the results of NLP practice are magic. I have experienced it myself and with my client. To know more about it you can sign up for our One-on-One Life Coaching sessions.
