भक्ति की शक्ति

 

यह है आस्था और भक्ति की शक्ति...
काशी में पूजन से, उत्तरकाशी में होती श्रमवीरों की मुक्ति
काशी विश्वनाथ, काशी के चरणों में
प्रज्वलित होते जब असंख्य दीप..
काशी विश्वनाथ, उत्तरकाशी में
उज्जवल होते 41श्रमिकों के जीवन-दीप
जब देव दिवाली मनी काशी की
निर्मल जलधारा के समीप...
पाषाण शीला का हृदय द्रवित हुआ
बाबा बौखनाग की भी कृपा हुई असीम
यह है आस्था और भक्ति की शक्ति...
काशी में पूजन से उत्तरकाशी में होती श्रमवीरों की मुक्ति
जो सनातन के मर्म व भक्ति की महिमा हैं समझते,
भारत की धर्मध्वजा, सुरक्षित है ऐसे ही करकमलों में!
#UttarakhandTunnelRescue #UttarkashiTunnelRescue
Link-https://www.facebook.com/groups/Sulekhni/permalink/6828173690607887/?mibextid=Nif5oz

Poha

Greetings on the occasion of World Poha Day!!

Health benefits of Poha :- 

🥗Indian nutrient dense, light breakfast made of beaten parboiled rice- Rice flakes.

🥗It's Pan-India dish.

🥗Prominently eaten in the states like-

Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Odisha, WestBengal, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala Telangana, Karnataka, TamilNadu &Goa.

🥗Easily digestible. 

🥗Has long satiety value, thus helps you feel full for a longer time. 

🥗Great probiotic as it's made by fermented parboiled paddy. 

🥗Good source of healthy carbohydrates. Rich in fibre

🥗Vital source of iron & vitamin B12 🥗Beneficial for pregnant women & children. 

🥗Prevents anemia.

🥗Good for elderly people as it's easy to digest, rich in vitamins, doesn’t cause bloating.

🥗Good weight loss diet. 

Nutritious, have high satiety value and low in Glycemic Index. 

Apart from a good breakfast it has a connection with cultural practice in Maharashtra. In some Maharashtrian families, the formal meeting of the boy and girl for marriage prospects is referred to as Kande-pohe or Chaha-pohe. There’s even a song called Kande-Pohe from the Marathi movie Sanai Chaughade.

Legends related to Lord Krishna indicate that poha is at least 5000yrs old snack.

Eat Poha...Stay Healthy!!

KER

 

🍒Ker grows wild and unattended throughout India’s arid northwest regions. Specially in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
🍒Districts of Jodhpur & Bikaner, Rajasthan produce tonnes of Ker.
🍒A well accepted & relished vegetable/ pickle of Rajasthani cuisine.
🍒The berry is available in dry as well as unripe fresh form.
🍒Small berries are tastier, more tender & succulent than large mature, hard ker berry.
🍒These small fruits fetch higher price in the market.
🍒Dried Ker is an indispensable ingredient of Panchkutta or Ker-Sangri recipe.

Nutritive Value of Ker:-
Ker (100gm)
Energy-             41.6 kcal
Protein-               8.6g
Carbohydrates- 0.8g
Fiber-                12.3g
Vitamin C-         7.81mg
Calcium-           55mg
Phosphorous-  57mg

Health benefits of Ker:-
🍒Good for Digestion-
Pickled fruits treat constipation and other stomach ailments.

🍒Prevents Cardiac & other circulatory system disorders-
-These have stimulants which aids arteriosclerosis.

🍒Effective Natural Detox-
-These are diuretic in nature thus act as a kidney disinfectant.

🍒Help in treating nephrological disorders-
-Being hepatoprotective it is good for kidney health.

🍒Prevent Cancer-
-Compounds present in Ker inhibit the proliferation of metastatic cancer cells.

🍒Act as Painkiller-
-Treats inflammation and acute pain.

🍒Good for Liver-
-Hence an old remedy for jaundice.

🍒Joint health-
-Prevents inflammation & joint infections.

🍒Anti diabetic-
-The alkaloids present in the plant have anti-diabetic properties.

🍒Consumption of unripe ker results in reduction in plasma triglycerides, total lipids and phospholipid concentration.

🍒Other parts as roots,buds & bark also have therapeutic importance-
-Roots treat fever
-Buds alleviate boils.
-Bark act as painkiller.

Hope next time you will see this thorny shrub you will remember how nutritious its fruit is.
"Taeti ka aachaar" or "Ker ka Pickle"
can be a tasty as well as healthy delight
for foodies.

Groundnuts

 Health Benefits of Groundnuts/Peanuts

Just a handful of Groundnuts per day provide enough recommended levels of phenolic antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and protein which help in maintaining optimal health. 

🥜Good source of protein, source of many essential amino acids that are needed for growth and development.

🥜Helps in preventing coronary artery disease and stroke risk 

They contain sufficient levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), especially oleic acid. MUFA helps lower LDL or "bad cholesterol" and increases HDL or "good cholesterol” level in the blood. s 

🥜The nuts are packed with many important B-complex (vitamins) such as 

riboflavin, 

niacin, 

thiamin, 

pantothenic acid, 

vitamin B-6, and 

folates. 

100 g of peanuts provide about 85% of RDI of niacin, which contributes to health and blood flow to the brain.

🥜Helps in maintaining healthy skin. 

Kernels are excellent source of vitamin-E(α -tocopherol);  which acts as powerful anti oxidant & helps in maintaining the integrity of mucosa &  protectsthe skin from harmful oxygen free radicals

🥜Reduce the risk of stomach cancer

Groundnuts contain high concentrations of polyphenolic antioxidants, primarily p-coumaric acid. Compound limits the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the stomach.

🥜Protects against cancers, heart disease, degenerative nerve disease, Alzheimer's disease, and viral/fungal infections.

🥜Excellent source of resveratrol an polyphenolic antioxidant. 

Resveratrol has protective function against cancers, heart disease, degenerative nerve disease, Alzheimer's disease, and viral/fungal infections.

🥜Reduce stroke risk 

Polyphenolic antioxidant present reduce the stroke risk by increasing production of vasodilator hormone, nitric oxide.

🥜Groundnuts are a rich source of minerals like -copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.

Eat Groundnuts...

Keep yourself young, active & healthy !!

Ber

Ber - Jujube 

Health Benefits of 'Ber'=Ziziphus Jujube..

🍒Good source of vitamins & mineral i.e. phosphorus,  calcium, iron etc.

🍒Improves skin health e.g. in treating psoriasis, eczema & allergies. 

🍒Beneficial in fighting cancer. 

🍒Powerful antioxidant. 

🍒It's seeds help in insomnia & sleep disorders. 

🍒Helps in mood elevation & treating depression. 

🍒Helps in releaving stress. 

🍒Rich source of phosphorus & iron.. helpful in treating anemia.

🍒Rich in fibre.

 

🍒Helps in weight management. 

🍒Good source of Vit-C & Vit-A

🍒Improves immunity. 

🍒Improves digestion..Beneficial in managing constipation & flatulence.

🍒Powerful detox food. 

Note:- Diabetic patients must not eat "Ber" in large amounts. It may result

in increasing blood sugar levels & worsen the condition.

#NutritionMonth2021 #nutrition #Health #PoshanMaah #POSHANVatika #POSHAN

Curry leaves

 Curry leaves🌿

These are the foliage of the curry tree (Murraya koenigii). 

This tree is used for both medicinal & culinary applications. 

Leaves have an aromatic flavour so, are widely used in the Indian recipes.  

Researches have  consuming them may help improve antioxidant defenses in your body. Hence improves our immune system. 

🌿Have antioxidants that protect the body cells by reducing oxidative stress.

-Rich in protective plant substances, such as alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds.

🌿Contain many compounds like linalool, alpha-terpinene, myrcene, mahanimbine, caryophyllene, murrayanol, and alpha-pinene which act as antioxidants.

🌿Protect against induced oxidative damage of the 

-nervous system, 

-heart, 

-brain and 

-kidneys .

🌿Rich in Vitamins & minerals 

Kadi patta, have copper, calcium, phosphorus, fibre, magnesium & iron. They also possess many types of vitamins like vitamins A, B, C and E which are required for good health.

🌿Help in keeping diabetes in check

Presence of minerals like iron, zinc & copper which stimulate the pancreas-

& protect insulin-producing cells of the pancreas from free radical damage. 

🌿Healthy nervous system

Have neuroprotective properties  

Curry leaves protect against neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease which occur due to oxidative stress. 

Sharpen your memory

Reduce the effects of amnesia.

🌿Relieves morning sickness & nausea.

Aaromatic flavour help increase digestive secretions.

🌿Eye health 

Contains of vitamin A that help promote the eye cornea, the transparent layering that covers the eye.

 🌿Skin Health

Anti-microbial properties & presence of Vit-A & C help make curry leaves beneficial for the skin. 

🌿Reduce the risk of heart disease  

Studies show it combats the high cholesterol &  triglyceride levels in the body. 

🌿Have Anticancer effects 

Curry leaf extract has been shown to be toxic to cervical cancer cells in test-tube research.

An alkaloid compound in curry leaves called girinimbine induces colon cancer cell death 

Antioxidants like quercetin, catechin, rutin and gallic acid.

Curry leaves have powerful anticancer properties.

🌿Have pain-relieving properties as well. 

Contain anti-inflammatory compounds like carbazole alkaloids, compounds that have antioxidant, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

🌿Curry leaves / Kadi patta not only add flavor to dishes but also make it a preventive food.

#PoshanMaah #POSHANMaah2021 

 #POSHANVatika #POSHANAbhiyaan 

#HealthyEating #NutritionMonth2021 

#nutrition #Health #healthylifestyle

Coconut

Why is coconut considered to be so auspicious???

🥥"Shree-phal" - Coconut.

Shreephal or Coconut is a symbol of prosperity and goodluck. All auspicious occasion are marked with coconut breaking ceremony. May be because of its immense nutritive value.

🥥Coconut adds flavour to Indian gravies or dishes. Voconut water is often used as a refreshing drink. In Southern India, coconut oil is used as basic edible oil. Chutney accompanies most recipes.

🥥Coconut is a natural stress buster. Cooking grated coconut in curries with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cumin, improves digestion and metabolism.

🌴Health benefits of coconut🌴

Significant anti-ageing agent - It is an effective antioxidant. 

🌴Good for bone health-

Being rich in minerals like potassium, manganese, and selenium it's good for bone health. 

🌴Keeps connective tissue healthy & strong-

Coconut water has been used as a medicinal tonic to sports drink because of its high content of potassium and antioxidants. It keeps the connective tissue hydrated and strong.

🌴Helps is maintaining electrolyte balance-

Coconut water is the natural way to replenish the supply of electrolytes in our body and prevent dehydration 

🌴Prevent acidity- Coconut water being bland & alkaline in nature helps prevent acidity. 

🌴Anti-carcinogenic properties.

🌴Prevents flatulence & indigestion. 

The fats present in coconut oil are said to possess antimicrobial properties.

  

🌴Improves BMR

Regular consumption of coconut water increases the metabolism rate which helps to burn sugar and lose fat faster.

🌴Keeps Kidneys healthy

Coconut water also helps in dissolving kidney stones-  Potassium plays a key role in urine alkalizing and preventing formation of kidney stones.

🌴Ease digestion. 

Mineral like calcium, manganese and zinc, essential oils and high fibre content help in  aiding digression.  Manganese present in coconut helps in proper the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol

🌴Helpful for diabetic patients 

Being low in glycolic index, coconut water helps in controlling diabetes. 

🌴Rich in good cholesterol

Abot 50% of saturated fat in coconut comes from lauric acid, which can help raise levels of heart-protective HDL.

It has ability to improve blood circulation, widen the blood vessels which get restricted due to the formation of plaque within them and helps the blood to flow smoothly through them.

🌴Manages Hypertension

Potassium present in Coconut results in lowering  of blood pressure.

Potassium helps balancing sodium levels in the body and regulate blood pressure.

🌴RBC in blood. 

Being rich in copper and iron help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells.

🌴Good for skin. - Rich in antioxidants it delays skin ageing too. 

🌴Coconut milk is being used these days to be as substitute of milk in diet of patients with lactose intolerance. 

🌴High Satiety value-

High in fibre content helps person feel full for longer time.

🌴Natural Detox 

Its traditionally used in Prasad & ate during fasting.

Need of nutritious food, Nutritional counselling & Role of a Nutritionist.

SEPTEMBER- the Nutrition month.
Happy #NutritionMonth2021!!

यथा अन्नं तथा मनः

Food & healthy habits not only improve Quality of our lives but also the Longevity.

Food has both Preventive & Curative qualities.

Since years, I come across people who think, Nutrition is a branch that is mainly related to Culinary skills & cooking food.
Dietitian's/Nutritionist's Job is all about prescribing weight management diets(dieting)  just to maintain healthy weights & body in shape.

Contrary to this, Nutrition is a branch of Alternative Medicine in Modern urbanized world that has plenty of scope of utilization, research & modifications in wellness arena.

Majority of times we can safeguard ourselves from most diseases by just having Healthy foods & Lifestyles.

Combination or exclusion of foods play a vital role in improving our health.

Earlier elderly people in our homes were as efficient as a Nutritionists. They used to provide us with enduring guidance.
Now a day, due to urbanization, many of us are deprived of such guidance. We need counseling during our special needs.
An efficient person should always keep on updating knowledge regarding environment.
As different organs of Body, collectively define health of a person. The specific macro & micro nutrients of food items present in our diet collectively define the food intake can be termed as "Healthy" or not.

Food plays optimal role in our lives-
Certain foods act as Preventive medicines whilst others with curative qualities act as Therapy for diseases.

Why do we need Diet Consultancy or Diet Counseling?

We humans undergo a life cycle starting from birth... During the life cycle our nutrient requirement changes according to the different stages of body's growth & maintenance. Our life includes stages like-

Pregnancy,
Post Partum periods,
Lactation,
Infancy,
Weaning periods,
Childhood (Toddlers)
Adolescence,
Adulthood
Menopause
Old age.  (Geriatric care)

Meanwhile, as adults if our immune system is weakened because of lack of healthy nutrients in our daily diet specially imbalance in Macro & Micro nutrients.
We may encounter certain deficiency diseases or diseases due to external factors like pathogens etc.

A Dietician's role is not to replace your diet with a foreign diet but to plan a healthy plate keeping in mind-
-Food preferences,
-Specific diseases & requirements,
-Restrictions,
-Cultural fads,
-Age & Sex
-Activity levels.
-Emergency needs (trauma or stress)

Whilst planning a healthy diet, a sensible Dietitian takes into consideration of all Internal & external factors influencing one's day to day life. For that the patient or the client need counseling.
Follow up, plays important role in effectiveness of Diet Plans.
Unlike medicines Food takes little longer to express its positive impact on ones body.
But once a Healthy Lifestyle & diet sets in order. It’s very much sure that there are minimal chances of repetitions of ailment.

A Nutritionist needs to focus on Diet modification not Replacement.

Dietitian’s Job is more focused on Preventive medicine (preventive foods).

Therapeutic diets & modified diets are also required during Chronic diseases like Diabetes, Liver malfunctions, Hepatic diseases, Thyroid disorders, Food Intolerances, Hypertension & Cardio Vascular diseases etc. Special diets Post partum period, Post surgery, during or convalescence in Geriatrics.

Diet plays role in Detoxification- removal of toxins from the body.

An efficient diet counseling session is one when Dietician can notice, that a patient not only knows what he or she has to eat during the day but also understands the underlying logical reasoning related to modifications done to his /her diet.
Patients must know what the actual condition is, what disorder or why that disorder is. What are the requirement, why is it required, what would be the metabolism & absorption.
As a Dietitian my Motto is to educate the client to improve his/her lifestyle.

Dietitian’s duty includes:-
-Educating community about healthy food practices.
-Updating knowledge about recent researches related to Food fads.
-Also telling about foods that harm & foods that heal.
-Removing the misconceptions & myths regarding Ailments & food intake.
-Telling about Drug & their Interactions with food.
-Culinary skill development to improve food acceptance.
-Use seasonal or cultural foods.
-Reducing food & energy wastage.
-Cost reduction during food preparations.
-Advising Healthy cooking practices.

Unveiling the fact that Indian foods & food practices are best. Every food fad/practice has logical reasoning behind it.

Most important of all above is Medicine (Drug) & Food interaction.

We often hear doctors prescribing Medicines & recommending that have it before meal, Post meal or in between meals... Have milk with a medicine or avoid it.
Drug & food chemical interaction plays a vital role in determining the level of side effects or efficiency of a Drug/Medicine.
So, for an efficient Diet consultation one must provide the Nutritionist with accurate Medicinal intake information.

By cumulatively applying my acquired knowledge about Food & Nutrition, Yog, Healthy lifestyles, & Nature Cure.
I'll try to share blogs, with you all.

So, together we may dream of Healthy Individual..Healthy family...Healthy community & Healthy Nation!!

Tea

Happy International Tea Day!!

Tea if taken in moderate quantities can be beneficial for health.

🫖☕Improves focus & alertness.

Caffeine &  L-theanine (an amino acid)   present increases alpha activity in the brain. Hence improves alertness. 

🫖☕Help decrease the risk of chronic diseases & improve your overall health.

Tea contains a group of polyphenols that have antioxidant properties. 

🫖☕Reduce the risk of heart disease.

Flavonoids present are said to be beneficial for heart health.

 

🫖☕Help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol).

Studies have found that black tea may help reduce LDL levels(bad cholesterol).

🫖☕Improves gut health and immunity.

Polyphenols and antimicrobial  properties found in black tea improves gut health hence improves the immune system.

🫖☕Help in controlling High B.P.

Researches show drinking black tea in moderate amount help decrease systolic & diastolic blood pressure. 

🫖☕Reduce the risk of stroke by reducing the stress.

🫖☕Black tea is a great non-sweetened beverage which increases secretion of insulin & help in  reduce blood sugar levels & managing diabetes. 

🫖☕Help in  the chances of cancer.

Polyphenols present in tea can help fight carcinogenic cells in the body.

🫖☕Help in Lowering Blood Sugar Levels

Elevated blood sugar levels may increase your risk of health complications, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure and depression. Thus, tea reduces risk of all these diseases. 

🫖☕Helps in relieving joint pain-

Catechins present in tea reduces oxidative stress hence bodyache & joint pain.

🫖☕Ginger tea – Helps to fight against morning sickness. It acts as immunity booster.

🫖☕Similarly Tulsi, Ginger or Lemon drops added to tea can be an effective remedy for simple headache, cough & cold.

A cup of tea may help in keeping stress & diseases away !!

 

Foods that help in managing Hypertension

Foods that help in managing Hypertension

Dietary & lifestyle modifications can reduce risk associated with hypertension like heart disease, stroke, & kidney malfunctioning.

Foods which if included in diet help in  lowering B.P.

Let's incorporate them into our diet.

⚜Foods to be included 

⚜🛍 Bananas

Bananas contain plenty of potassium, the raised potassium concentration in comparison to sodium in body plays a important role in lowering B.P.

Other potassium-rich foods include:

-Avocado

-Honeydew melon

-Mushrooms

-Sweet potatoes

-Tomatoes

-Tuna (cod liver oil)

-Beans

People with kidney disease should consult doctor about potassium, as too much can be harmful.

⚜🛍Berries

Blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidant compounds called anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid.

Studies show intake of anthocyanins — had an 8% reduction in the risk of high B.P.

⚜🛍Beetroot 

It has high levels of inorganic nitrate which control blood pressure.

Drinking beet juice can help managing hypertension 

1 cup of the beet juice/day can result in  drop in B.P. for most.

Prolonged intake of beet juice, beets as salads or vegetable brings B.P. within the normal range. 

⚜🛍Kiwi

Kiwis are also rich in vitamin C & other bioactive antioxidants. 

3 Kiwis/day for 8wks resulted in a more significant reduction in both systolic & diastolic blood pressure.

⚜🛍Watermelon

It contains an amino acid called citrulline. Citrulline helps the body to produce nitric oxide, a gas that relaxes blood vessels and encourages flexibility in arteries. These effects aid the flow of blood, which reduces B.P.

⚜🛍Barley & Oats

Both contains a type of fiber called beta-glucan, higher consumption of beta-glucan fiber may lower plague deposition in arteries. It improves the of bad cholesterol.

 

⚜🛍Green leafy vegetables 

These are Nitrate-rich. Vegetables like-

-Cabbage

-Spinach

-Mustard greens

(Sarso ka saag)

-Lettuce

-Collard greens

-Swiss chard

Daily consumption as dish, curries and stews can normalize the B.P.

⚜🛍Garlic

It's a natural antibiotic & antifungal food. 

Allicin present in garlic increases the body’s production of nitric oxide, which relax the smooth muscles & dilate blood vessels. This inturn reduces hypertension.

⚜🛍Fermented foods

Fermented foods like-

-Natural yogurt

-Apple cider vinegar

-Miso

-Tempeh

-Concentrated probiotic supplements 

These are rich in probiotics, which have vital role in maintaining gut health. Thus reducing hypertension indirectly. 

⚜🛍Lentils & Pulses

These excellent source of protein & fiber.

⚜🛍Pomegranates

It's rich in antioxidant content.

It can be enjoyed as whole or juice.

Drinking 1 cup of pomegranate juice daily for 28 days Lowers High B.P.

⚜🛍Cinnamon

A research shows having cinnamon decreases short-term systolic B.P. by 5.39 mm Hg & diastolic B.P. by 2.6 mm Hg. 

Sprinkle it on fruit or salad or add to curries as a spice.

⚜🛍Almond & Pistachios

Moderate fat healthful nuts can decrease hypertension.

They contain active compounds which reduces the stiffness of blood vessels.

⚜🛍Include PUFA (Polyunsarurated Fatty Acids) rich oils in diet. 

These help in decreasing the bad blood cholesterol level hence reduces chances of atherosclerosis.

⚜Foods to be avoided

Reduce Salt

Sodium can significantly raise blood pressure. Lowering salt intake to 5 gms daily substantially reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Instead of NaCl normal table salt, add KCl which is "Saindha namak" or "Tata Lite" etc.

But don't stop having normal Salt otherwise this may affect health adversely. 

Avoid Caffeine

Coffee & other energy drinks which contain caffeine can cause short-term spikes in B.P.

Avoid Coffee 

Drinking strong coffee increases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure for 3 hours. Thus it's an easy management tip for low blood pressure patients.  

So vice-versa has to be applied with the hypertensive patients. 

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol can cause dramatic increases in B.P. 

It increases the risks of heart failure & stroke.

Avoid bakery products & canned food

These are rich in Sodium, minerals & Trans fats which may increase B.P.

Avoid Papad if you are hypertensive. 

Avoid chocolates & cocoa 

Which elevate the Blood Pressure but enhancing the blood circulation. 

Avoid refined flours.

Avoid packed potato chips , snacks & Namkeens avaliable in market 

which have lot of salt. Instead have homemade namkeen, French fries or snacks.

Avoid pickles, pickled foods smoked canned fish etc 

which can have high salt, mineral or sugar concentration. 

Little modification of diet can effectively 

reduce the risk of hypertension associated diseases & also help in its management. 

Management of hypertension. 

Maintaining blood cholesterol levels of HDL & preventing plague formation in arteries which results in  atherosclerosis. Help in reducing the chances of cardiovascular diseases & strokes.

कौन मिटाये उसे जिसे वो राख लिया

कौन मिटाये उसे जिसे वो राख लिया

सब दुख दूर हुए जब तेरा नाम लिया....

13 मई 2008...
कौन भूल सकता है उस संध्या को..
हमारा वर्षों तक नियम रहा हर मंगलवार संगानेरी गेट स्थित हनुमान जी के दर्शन करना और श्री वेंकटेश्वर स्वामि जी की आरती में सम्मलित होना... 

व्यस्त मुख्य बाज़ार होने के कारण जौहरी बाज़ार में पार्किंग मिलना कठिन कार्य है... पर हम क्यूंकि वर्षों से जा रहे थे इसलिए आस-पास के लोग मानो परिवार ही बन गए थे।  माँ बन्दरों को केले इत्यादि सदा से दिया करती थी.. जहां कचरे के डिब्बे में वो बम विस्फोट हुआ था... बिल्कुल उससे सटकर ही हम अपनी कार पार्क करते थे।  क्यूंकि जो फलवाली मालन आंटी वहां टोकरी में फल लेकर बैठती थी, वो हमें देखते ही मुस्कुराकर, अपना टोकरा उठाकर साइड कर लेती, मेरी कार पार्क करने के लिए जगह बना देती। बन्दरों के लिए केले देकर कहती थी,  बाकी फल निकालकर रखती हूँ... आप दर्शन कर के आ जाओ।
उस दिन भी मंगलवार था..  हम ठीक जब बम्ब विस्फोट हुआ वही होते... और अगर ऐसा होता तो शायद आज मैं किसी और लोक में होती.. पर कहते हैं  ना "मरण और परण" का स्थान और समय नियति निर्धारित होता है। जिसकी जितनी डोर प्रभु  ने लिखी है वो कम ज़्यादा नहीं की जा सकती।
वर्षों का नियम हमने कभी नहीं तोड़ा था पर 13 मई 2008 को परिस्थिति कुछ ऐसी हुई कि हम घर से मंदिर के लिए निकल कर भी वापिस लौट आए... प्रभु बचाने के लिए भी किसी न किसी को कारक बनाते हैं। दरअसल हुआ यूं कि
माँ की बचपन में साथ पढ़ी सहेली, मेरी मौसी, 
जिन्हें माँ स्वयं भी 35 साल बाद पुनः संपर्क में आयी थी वो हमारे घर में थी। माँ को 11th May को अचानक अपनी सहेली की याद आयी... मैं उन्हें नहीं जानती थी पर फिर भी बड़ी मुश्किल से मैंने माँ की एक दूसरी सहेली को ढूँढ निकाला.. उनसे मौसी का नंबर मिला.. फोन किया तो पता चला मौसी की financial condition अच्छी नहीं रही है और उन्हें कैंसर detect हुआ है.. वो इलाज के लिए जयपुर आना चाहती थीं पर असमंजस में थीं... माँ ने बात की,  हमने हमेशा की तरह पापा से विषय कहा और तय हुआ कि हम उनके गांव जाकर उन्हें लाकर उनका इलाज करवायेंगे। Evening में महावीर कैंसर hospital में doctor uncle से एक दिन बाद का appointment लिया.. कार चलाने का मुझे शौक रहा है तो दूसरे ही दिन सुबह हम लगभग 200 km से ज़्यादा drive कर टूटी फूटी सड़क पर उछलते हुए मौसी के घर, उनके गांव पहुंचे। She was bed ridden.. उनकी reports और उन्हें साथ लिया और हम सह परिवार उसी दिन वापिस अपने घर पहुंचे... 13 की सुबह doctor  uncle  को दिखाकर घर लौटने में दोपहर हो गई।
क्यूंकि मौसी bedridden थी, और उनकी सेवा के लिए उस वक्त घर में कोई नहीं होता। माँ मंदिर नहीं जाना चाहती थीं और पापा का भी यही खयाल था।  वैसे भी माँ-पापा एक सिक्के के दो पहलू हैं और उनका collective decision same होता है।
मैं पिछले दो दिनों में थक गई थी और झुंझला भी उठी थी क्यूंकि उनके relatives, सब दो दिन से lipservice में लगे थे। स्वभाव से मैं थोड़ी तो जिद्दी हूँ ही... इतनी भी महान नहीं.. सच में सिद्धांतो पे चलना कठिन होता है। मैं माँ से उनके बड़े हृदय के लिए लगभग उलझ गई थी, ये कहकर की आप दोनों के सेवा भाव की वजह से हमरा मंदिर का नियम टूट जायेगा...पापा बोले बेटा भगवान तो कर्म देखते हैं- आरती से ही थोड़ी खुश होंगे। अब हमेशा की तरह सब कहकर माँ पापा ने decision मुझ पर छोड़ दिया। मौसी बोली हो आओ मंदिर...

मुझ पर स्वार्थ हावी था...पापा और माँ की बात को नकारते हुए मैंने कार निकाल ली... 

माँ कुछ नहीं बोली, बस मेरी ओर देखा.. मानो पूछ रही हो- बचपन से यही सिखाया है मैंने तुझे... मैंने गाड़ी घर के बाहर निकाली फिर driveway में रख दी... मुझे माँ पापा की आँखों में असहमति देख, लज्जा आ गई थी।  घर में आकर सबको मनाने के लिए मैंने कहा- चाय बनाते हैं, मंदिर...मौसी जब ठीक हो जाएंगी, तब चलेंगे। माँ की आँखों में चमक लौट आयी...

हमने चाय पी ही थी की.. फोन बजा- आवाज आयी "आप सब ठीक हो??? TV on करो मंदिर के पास bomb blast हुआ है "
हमारे सभी स्वजनों को पता था कि हम वही होंगे। एक के बाद एक फोन यही पूछने के लिए बज रहे थे।
जयपुर पहली बार इतना देहला था। SMS जहां से internship की थी,  वहां सब emergency mode में थे। कई व्यथित चेहरे देखे। हमने भी थोड़ा थोड़ा योगदान किया जो हमारा कर्तव्य था।

पर हाँ सही कहा है हमारे धर्म में कि अच्छे कर्मों का फल अवश्य ही मिलता है। 

मानव सेवा से बढ़कर कोई और सेवा नहीं।

कभी का किया कभी आड़े आता है। 

नियम टूटा साँसों की डोर टूटने से बच गई..

और माँ पापा का favorite dialogue कि हमारी
duty थी सही गलत के बीच का फर्क समझने की, अब बच्चे बड़े हो गए हैं.. कोई उंगली पकड़ थोड़ी चलाएंगे। अब जीवन तेरा है, निर्णय भी तेरे होने चाहिए। सही चुनेगी तो हमें अपनी संतान पर गर्व होगा और तुझे पीछे मुड़कर देखने पर कभी अफसोस नहीं होगा। बिना जताए काम करो । सही सिखाने की बिल्कुल सही style है। 

आज भी  इसलिए लिखा क्यूंकि इस आपदा में हम विश्वास खोने लगे हैं। जो हमने निष्काम कर्म भाव सीखा है वो ही हमें इस आपदा से भी बाहर निकालेगा।  प्रभु पर आस्था रखिए!!

"If he brings to it.. he will let us sail through it." He is an amazing director of a movie called life!!

Shreephal

 "Shree-phal" - Coconut.

Shreephal or Coconut is a symbol of prosperity and goodluck. All auspicious occasion are marked with coconut breaking ceremony. May be because of its immense nutritive value.

🌰Coconut adds flavour to Indian gravies or dishes. Coconut water is often used as a refreshing drink. In Southern India, coconut oil is used as basic edible oil. Chutney accompanies most recipes.

🌰Coconut is a natural stress buster. Cooking grated coconut in curries with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cumin, improves digestion and metabolism.

🌴Health benefits of coconut🌴

Significant anti-ageing agent - It is an effective antioxidant. 

🌴Good for bone health-

Being rich in minerals like potassium, manganese, and selenium it's good for bone health. 

🌴Keeps connective tissue healthy & strong-

Coconut water has been used as a medicinal tonic to sports drink because of its high content of potassium and antioxidants. It keeps the connective tissue hydrated and strong.

🌴Helps is maintaining electrolyte balance-

Coconut water is the natural way to replenish the supply of electrolytes in our body and prevent dehydration 

🌴Prevents acidity- Coconut water being bland & alkaline in nature helps prevent acidity. 

🌴Anti-carcinogenic properties.

🌴Prevents flatulence & indigestion. 

The fats present in coconut oil are said to possess antimicrobial properties.

  🌴Improves BMR

Regular consumption of coconut water increases the metabolism rate which helps to burn sugar and lose fat faster.

🌴Keeps Kidneys healthy

Coconut water also helps in dissolving kidney stones-  Potassium plays a key role in urine alkalizing and preventing formation of kidney stones.

🌴Ease digestion. 

Mineral like calcium, manganese and zinc, essential oils and high fibre content help in  aiding digression.  Manganese present in coconut helps in proper the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol

🌴Helpful for diabetic patients 

Being low in glycolic index, coconut water helps in controlling diabetes. 

🌴Rich in good cholesterol

Abot 50% of saturated fat in coconut comes from lauric acid, which can help raise levels of heart-protective HDL.

It has ability to improve blood circulation, widen the blood vessels which get restricted due to the formation of plaque within them and helps the blood to flow smoothly through them.

🌴Manages Hypertension

Potassium present in Coconut results in lowering  of blood pressure.

Potassium helps balancing sodium levels in the body and regulate blood pressure.

🌴RBC in blood-

Being rich in copper and iron help form red blood cells, as well as selenium, an important antioxidant that protects your cells.

🌴Good for skin-

 Rich in antioxidants it delays skin ageing too. 

🌴Coconut milk is being used these days to be as substitute of milk in diet of patients with lactose intolerance. 

🌴High Satiety value-

High in fibre content helps person feel full for longer time.

🌴Natural Detox-

Its traditionally used in Prasad & ate during fasting. 

Dalia Khichadi

🔸️Recipe -Dalia Khichadi

Namkeen daliya with mangodi.
Sharing one of my family recipe
A nutritious complete food which is
easy to make, healthy to eat, quick to digest, a combination food.

🔸️Servings : 2 person

🔸️Cooking time  : 20-25 minutes

🔸️Ingredients-
Broken wheat/ dalia -     150gm (1 Katori)
Moongdal(Chhilkewali)-  50gm  (1/2Katori)
Mangodi-                           20gm(10-15piece)
Oil/ Ghee                            50ml
Jeera/ cumin seeds -       5gm (1tsp)
Salt/                                    5gm (1tsp) or according to taste
Turmeric powder/haldi -    2.5gm  (1/2 tsp)
Red chilli powder/mirch -  5gm    (1tsp)
Coriander/ dhaniya  -         10gm  (2 tsp)   
Heeng   (Asafetida)            1 small pinch
Water-              650-700ml  (4- 4 1/2Katori)

🔸️Method of preparing recipe-
🥘Wash moong dal well & soak it in measured water.
🥘Break mangodi to even equal little pieces if big in size.
🥘Put vessel on medium flame on the burner, put dalia in it & roast on dry heat a little,till it turns little lighter to feel n golden brown in colour.
🥘Remove from flame & Keep it aside.
In a pressure cooker add oil/ ghee,
heat it on medium flame.
In moderately heated oil/ghee add Heeng & jeera...Quickly add mangodi n roast it to golden brown .
🥘Put rest of the spices in described order-  haldi, mirch, dhania & salt.
🥘To the roasted masala mangodi mix add roasted dalia(broken wheat) and
then add soaked moongdal & water.
Stir well so ingredients mix well.
🥘Put the lid of pressure cooker & keep it on high flame for 1st whistle then simmer the burner's flame & have aleast 2 more whistles. So it's cooked well.
🥘(If your cooker gives quick whistle add 750ml instead of 700 ml & have 4 whistles)
🥘Don't let the steam escape from pressure cooker, even after you have turn off the burner. Let pressure cooker rest for 10 to 15 minutes with pressed whistle.

🥘Serve hot with salted chhach, mango pickle or coriander chutney & finely chopped tomato & onion salad.

🔸️Nutrition facts

🥗Dalia (broken whole wheat) is rich in Vitamins & gluten.   An easy to digest cereal which is goid source of EAA & carbohydrate. It is abundant in roughage. Roughage helps in avoiding constipation & keeps digestive tract healthy.

🥗Moongdal has 24.1gm of protein per 100 gm. It is packed with 13 essential amino acids which are needed by the body.

🥗Essential amino acids(EAA) are Amino acids that body does not synthesize. So its essential to include them in one's diet in order to obtain them.The amino acids regarded as essential for humans are phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, isoleucine, methionine, leucine, lysine, histidine, cysteine, tyrosinen Arginine especially required by infants and growing children.

🥗Moong dal is rich in EAA(essential amino acids.)
Combination of moong dal + Dalia makes the Amino acids present in both compliment each other. The amount of Lysine content in Moong dal is increased by combing it with mangodi & dalia.

🥗Generally Lysine is the limiting Amino acid during absorption & utilization of proteins in body.

🥗Limiting amino acid - is the essential amino acid found in the smallest quantity in the particular foodstuff)
Our body use amino acids in a specific ratio to each other, so if a person doesn’t get enough of one of them to match with the rest, the rest can only be used at a level to balance with that low one.
Most of these amino acids are fairly easy to get in a reasonably well-balanced diet. However, there are Eessential amino acids which generally act as limiting amino acid & that are a little harder to get than the rest.
Thus it is important to make sure you’re getting enough of these LAAs.
These are called limiting amino acids, because if a person’s diet is deficient in one of them, this will limit the usefulness of the others, even if those others are present in large/enough quantities. These limiting amino acids(LAA) include the sulfur-containing ones (methionine and cysteine), tryptophan, and lysine.

🥗Lysine is found in cereal grains, but is plentiful in pulses specially moong.

🥗Moong has 5.71 % of protein is lysine.

🥗The combination of moong+ mangodi which is rich in LYSINE (essential amino acid) with Dalia increases Biological value of protein in the dish.
(Biological value (BV) is a measure of the proportion of absorbed protein from a food which becomes incorporated into the proteins of the organism's body. )

🥗L-Lysine is a necessary building block for all protein in the body.

🥗L-Lysine plays a major role in
· calcium absorption
· building muscle protein;
· recovering from surgery or injuries,
· the body's production of hormones,
·  Enzymes and antibodies.

🥗Certain Antibodies which are proteins themselves need EAA for their synthesis.
These antibodies are required by body to combat general sickness like cough n cold. Influenza, fever (flu) conjunctivitis etc.
Lysine plays a major role in calcium absorption & bone development.

🥗For Heamoglobin synthesis also protein of high Biological value is needed. Globin which is a part of heamoglobin is a transport PROTEIN thus more of Essential amino acids & proteins of high Biological Value.(BV) required.
Human studies have also shown negative correlations between reduced lysine intake and anxiety.

🥗Mangodi which is made from moongdal only.

🥗Ghee is rich in sulphur containing EAA-lysine n methionine & fat.
When Ghee/oil is added to dalia it further enriches the Biological value of protein.
Fat in recipe help in absorbing fat soluble vitamins.

🥗Spices added improves taste, aroma n palatability of dish.

🥗If we serve it with butter milk.

Casein & calcium is added.

🥗Serving it with mango pickle or coriander chutney adds more of vitamins & minerals.  Raw mango in pickle or Lemon juice added to chutney adds vitaminC to complete it further.

🥗Salad of onion & tomato enhance taste vitamins & minerals in the food.

🔸️We may conclude again our Indian food practice of eating Namkeen Dalia combined with Moong Dal, mangodi and ghee along with coriander chutney, pickle chhachh & salad is complete cereal-pulse-milk-vegetable & fruit combination food which is extremely easy to prepare.

🔸️Once scientific mind starts exploring reasons for a Indian recipe –The results are amazing..Lot of research is still needed to find out, a BIG REASON hiding behind each Indian food fad, custom n practices.
Simplest recipe of Dalia can be so nutritious.

🔸️Must thank almighty that he gifted Rajasthan with Moong, Wheat, Ghee, Butter milk, coriander, onion, lemon & tomato etc.
Ingredients are abundant & easily available even in summers.

🔸️Our elders were Prefect Nutritionists-Their recipes were- Taste, economy, availability combined to provide excellent nutrition to the family!! 

Eat food in Calm & Cozy Atmosphere.

 "भोजन और भजन एकांत और शांतिमय स्थान पर करना चाहिए..”

Eat food in Calm & cozy Atmosphere!!"- There is hidden logic behind this Adage.

#NutritionMonth #NutritionWeek 

Before explaining the reason for above adage. Lets first have a look at the Digestive process taking place in our body. This will help in resolving the query with Scientific outlook. 

The secretion of gastric juices plays a vital role during digestion.

Through Mastication a little digestion of food occurs in mouth, by the action of salivary amylase (a digestive enzyme present in saliva) the semi digested & semisolid food enters Esophagus. Passing down the Esophagus the food enters through the Cardiac Sphincter (a valve like opening present at the junction of esophagus & fundus of stomach) into the most dilatable portion of alimentary canal known as STOMACH. Stomach acts as a churner and a temporary storage organ & prepares food for intestinal digestion. The surface of inner membrane is covered with numerous tiny ducts from many gastric glands.

Now, we come back to the main point of discussion:

WHY-WE MUST EAT FOOD IN CALM & COZY ATMOSPHERE… AWAY FROM

WORRIES & ANXIETY…??

"भोजन और भजन एकांत और शांतिमय स्थान पर करना  चाहिए..”

Secretion of gastric juices is quite important for DIGESTION

🍚The process is both-nervous stimulated & a chemical process.

🍚Mere sight or smell of well prepared food triggers the gastric secretion.

🍚This period remains for about 20-30 minutes. At this time absorption of nutrients is at its peak. This is what can be known as period of craving for food.

🍚Chemicals too stimulate secretion.

Some chemicals present in food, interact with the walls of stomach and liberate an HORMONE called GASTRIN. Gastrin is responsible for the

feedback mechanism of  

SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM(SNS) & CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS).

Gastrin plays a Vital role in feedback for release of more of Gastric juices into alimentary canal.

🍚When emotions are at peak (especially anger, fear or distress) the Sympathetic nervous system is affected. Mainly secretion of Adrenalin is responsible for imbalance in feedback mechanism. Generally lowering of Gastrin secretion occurs.

This may result in-

🍛Rejection of food by stomach.

Partial digestion & partial absorption of nutrients.

🍛Loss of appetite.

🍛Feeling of butterflies in stomach due to contraction of stomach walls.

🍛Unusual dilation of cardiac sphincter..

 This can result in regurgitation of food & HEARTBURN.

🍛An imbalance in release of gastric juice –Hypo-secretion can result in indigestion.

🍛Hyper-secretion of Gastric juice may result in Gorging of food due to more feeling of hunger.

🍛Hyper-secretion may also lead to acidity due to mental stress/ tension.

We can conclude, that the mood during Food intake is important factor to ensure proper digestion & absorption of Nutrients.

Even, the speed of eating food will affect the amount of Food intake. One can eat more food, if he eats quickly, during 20-30 minutes(ie. during-Period of craving for food) when the secretion of Gastrin & other Digestive juices is at the PEAK.

One more reason to say -"Our ancestors had a scientific outlook towards life!!" 

May be, they never explained all the reasons. But they were aware of the fact that Mood during food intake effects, on amount of food intake, its digestion & absorption.

Happy Guru Purnima !!

I bow to almighty on the occasion of Guru Purnima.
We often call Teachers or Kathavachaks or Astologers as Guru but Guru is much more than these. There is need understand who is an actual "Guru".
Guru is one who tells us to connect with the supreme power & He tells us to practise detachment in our daily lives. He is the one who is on a different level of consciousness than ours.
In Bhagavad Gita Shri Krishna the Jagatguru & Parameshwar tells  Arjuna that acting with detachment means doing the right thing, for its own sake, because it needs to be done, without worrying about success or failure.
Shri Krishna tells Arjun how to act with maximum grace while under maximum pressure. He persuades that we merely perform roles which destiny demands of us. Karma has to be done keeping in mind the values & ethics.
We need to move on the ethical path irrespective of our own likes, dislikes relations, attachments, inclinations, selfish gain or loss.

Guru tells us about "Sannmarg" the ethical path & "Satkarma" the correct deeds.
Its we who shape our desitiny through karma.
Right is right & wrong is wrong..no if sor buts. For achieving the "Dharma Sanmat Lakshya" or our "ethical aim" for the welfare of society, nothing has to be omitted or avoided. Act consciously and righteously.  Correctness of action will be judged by time not humans.  As humans we have power to manipulate our atmosphere a little but we can't change what's destined.
Do things keeping in mind, the larger perspective of life- The society, the  generations that will come after us and the mother nature.
Aadhyatma or Dharma is not bookish knowledge that can be attained in institutes.  Life is itself a teacher. We resolve daily problems/ situations and life gives us lessons, until we learn & grow spiritually.
Guru is one who tells that knowledge is internal aspect of life not external. Guru is one who helps us in qualitative growth not quantitative growth, specially in terms of learning.
Our soul always knows, what has to be done. Its just, we who are unable to silence the external noise & hear the conscious.
Guru helps to Grow from inside out.
He tells us, how to CONNECT with one and only almighty and while performing all the duties DETACH ourselves from the outcomes. Being humans, we all have emotions but an almost perfect human-being is one who has been able to attain balance between worldly & spirituals aspects of life.
Detachment is not all about taking "Sanyaas" but while performing duties, knowing that results or probabilities should not have an impact on one's actions, decisions or outlook towards life.
हमारी "आत्मा" जो कि परमात्मा का ही अंश है..परमात्मा की अनुकम्पा से हमारे जन्मजन्मांतर की साथी है, अगर वो हमारा मार्गदर्शन करनेवाला गुरु बन पाये, तो फिर इस जीवन को हम सार्थक पायेंगे!

TURMERIC- The Golden Spice

Turmeric, sometimes called golden spice has many health benefits.

The commonly used spice in most of the Indian curries has extraordinary effect in improving our immune system and in aiding digestion & in maintaining proper mental & physical health.

Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric.
It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.
It helps our body to fight foreign invaders and also has a role in repairing damage.

Anti-inflammatory
curcumin is a bioactive substance that fights inflammation at the molecular level
Curcumin delivers a one-two mechanism against free radicals. It blocks them directly, then stimulates your body's own antioxidant defenses.

Powerful Anti- Oxidant
Oxidative damage is believed to be one of the mechanisms behind aging and many diseases.
Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals due to its chemical structure
Curcumin boosts the activity of your body's own antioxidant enzymes.

Pain reliever
The spice is reputed to relieve arthritis pain.

Improves Liver Function
Antioxidant effect of turmeric appears to be so powerful that it may stop your liver from being damaged by toxins.

Aids digestion
Its anti inflammatory in nature.
Reduces gut inflammation and improves gut permeability and hence helps in healthy digestion.

Prevents Amnesia
Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in your brain.

Helpful in Heart disease
Curcumin improves the function of the endothelium and is a potent anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant.

Helpful in treating Hypertension
Its consumption results in thinning of blood like in the case of warfarin.
Thus turmeric can be associated with  lowered cholesterol  levels and lowered blood pressure.

Reduces risk of cancer
Curcumin leads to several changes on the molecular level that may help prevent and perhaps even treat cancer.

Helpful in Preventing Alzheimer's Disease.

Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, it makes sense that it may help with arthritis.

Prevents & cures Depression
Depression is also linked to reduced levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a shrinking hippocampus, a brain area with a role in learning and memory.
Curcumin boosts BDNF levels, potentially reversing some of these changes.
There are evidences that curcumin can boost the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

Anti ageing agent & Aids longevity
Plays a role in delaying aging. Effective preventive food.
Due to its many positive health effects.
Turmeric added to food, aids longevity.

Curcumin has so many health benefits and is present in TURMERIC , is absorbed in the body when combined with fats or peperine present in pepper.
That is probably the scientific reason of the spicy & oily Indian recipes.
Which over the years have been rejected by those who don't respect their own heritage.
Fats are needed moderately.
Remember, Dry, fat-less, boiled or roasted food, only salads & crash diets are not healthy diets. Our ancestors were masters in combining foods and spices to get best food value of any recipe.

e.g. I hope we all know "Haldi wala doodh" is a common home remedy of cough & cold or any internal injury.
Kachhi Haldi ki sabji is common food in Rajasthan.
From dal to any curry ghee & haldi are essential ingredient of Indian recipe.

Trust their knowledge and if you have doubts please analyse everything scientifically.
After analysing each combination food. I get assurance that our forefathers were genius!!
So just to look smart & innovative...
Please, don't temper your age old recipes. 
Don't reject the traditional foods.

Tulsi

Tulsi ji is said to be one of the most sacred plant in Hindu households. Its literally worshipped daily.. We call it "Vrinda devi" or "Tulsi maa"

Time to find out the reason behind it..?

Tulsi is an excellent herb which acts as preventive medicine & it has enormous therapeutic value.
Tulsi acts as an adaptogen. 
An adaptogen is natural substance that helps your body adapt to stress & promotes mental balance.

Its nutritional value is also high, 
as it contains-Vitamins & minerals as well as many useful compounds like-
-Apigenin,
-Ocimumosides A & B,
-Eugenol,
-Lutein,
-Ursolic and rosmarinic acid.

Protects against majority of infections-
It has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal
properties.

Vitalize our body & improves stamina,
strengthens Immune system . 
-High in anti-oxidants.
-It acts as powerful detox.

In alternative & preventive medicine,
Tulsi is typically used for asthma, bronchitis, arthritis, colds, and the flu.
-It is considered to be an adaptogenic herb.
-It contains Apigenin: a flavonoid that helps the body removes waste at the cellular level.
-It also increases mucus cell formation.

Reduces stress and anxiety
-Tulsi has antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties comparable to antidepressant drugs like diazepam.
-One study found that people who took 500mg of Tulsi extract each day felt less anxious, stressed, and depressed.
-People also felt more social.

Helpful in reducing insomnia & sleep problems.
Ocimumosides A & B: compounds that reduce stress and balances the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine

Reduces forgetfulness & Amnesia.

Beneficial in healing of wounds. 
Research shows that holy basil may work against infections and wounds, such as:
mouth ulcers, keloids, raised scars, acne.

Helpful in type 2 diabetes.
Tulsi Lower your blood sugar.
Prevent symptoms of diabetes such as:
-weight gain
-hyperinsulinemia(excess insulin in the blood).
-Insulin resistance.

Lower your bad cholesterol
Since Tulsi targets metabolic stress,
it help with weight loss and reducing bad cholesterol levels.

Ease inflammation and joint pain
It contains Eugenol: a terpene with pain-relieving properties, whic is found in clove oil.
Tulsi has anti-inflammatory & analgesic properties.
It can even help people with arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Counteract the effects of stress-induced ulcers by increasing our stomach’s defense mechanism by decreases stomach acid.

Acts anti ageing agent
Ursolic and rosmarinic acid are two compounds present in Tulsi. These have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.

Good for eye health.
It has Lutein: an antioxidant which is a  carotenoid important for eye health.

In alternative medicine different parts of the Tulsi plant are recommended for treating different  pathological conditions-
-Fresh flowers for Asthma .
-Tea prepared by boiling its leaves is used in fever, bronchitis, cough & cold.
-Tulsi leaves and seeds, with black pepper, for malaria.
-Leaves are used for diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
-Its extract with Vaseline base is used as an ointment for eczema.
-An alcohol extract is used for stomach ulcers and eye diseases.
-An essential oil made from the leaves is used for insect bites.
-Post operative. Its ointment is used to heal the wounds & scars.

Apart from nutritional & therapeutic value.
According to studies & as quoted by Times of India, an eminent botanist & researcher Shri Shyamkant Padoley-Tulsi is beneficial for enviroment as well.
"Tulsi plant gives out oxygen for 20 hours and ozone for 4 hours a day along with the formation of nascent oxygen which absorbs harmful gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide & sulphur dioxide from the environment."
Now one can understand Why "Tulsi maa" is considered so sacred .
Why we worship Tulsi ji daily.
Our Hindu religion & Indian culture are extremely scientific.
"Garv se kahein hum Hindu hain..
Garv se kahein hum Hindustani hain!"

SHANKHNAAD

Shankhnaad is very scientific way of  creating positive & conductive atmosphere.

शङ्खं चन्द्रार्क दैवत्यं मध्ये वरुण दैवतम् ।
पृष्ठे प्रजापति विद्यात् अग्रे गङ्गा सरस्वती ॥

Meaning:
In Shankha abides the Chandra Moon & Surya Devatas, and in its middle the Varuna Devata. On its back abides Prajapati & on its front Ganga & Saraswati;

त्वं पुरा सागरोत्पन्नः विष्णुना विधृतः करे ।
पूजितः सर्व देवैश्च पाञ्चजन्य नमोऽस्तु ते ॥

Meaning:
In former times You rose from the Sea and was held by Vishnu in His Hand, You are worshipped by all the Devas; Salutations to Panchajanya.

 त्रैलोक्ये यानि तीर्थानि वासुदेवस्य च आज्ञया ।
शङ्खे तिष्ठन्ति विप्रेन्द्र तस्माच्छङ्खं प्रपूजयेत् ॥

Meaning:
Whatever Tirthas are there in the Three Worlds, by the command of Vasudeva, they abide inside the Shankha, O best of Wise men; Therefore Shankha is to be Worshipped.

पाञ्चजन्याय विद्महे पवमानाय धीमहि ।
तन्नः शङ्खः प्रचोदयात् ॥

Meaning:
Let us contemplate on Panchajanya (Shankha of Sri Krishna) and meditate on Pavamana, May that Shankha (i.e. Sound of Shankha) awaken our Consciousness.

Significance of Shankhnaad
Shankha is believed to have originated from Samudra Manthan. Shankhnaad- shankh is blown in order to get rid of negative energy and evil spirits.

Shankhnaad-The sound from the Shankh is associated with the sacred syllable ‘Om’ which is believed to be the first sound of creation.
It is symbolic to beginning of any good work. Its believed to be the purest form of sound which ushers in new hope.
When the Shankh is blown, the primordial sound of "Om" emanates from it. This eternal sound is the origin of all Vedas. All knowledge enshrined in the Vedas is an elaboration of the omnipresent sublime sound of Om. It was this sound that was chanted by the Lord before manifesting the cosmos. It represents the creation.

Shankhnaad enhances the positive psychological vibrations such as courage, hope, optimism, willpower  and bliss can be felt by all around.
Leaving aside the mythology, even if you hold the Shankha near your ear, you can hear a humming sound of ocean in it. This is actually a natural vibration or cosmic energy of Earth which gets magnified on entering the conch shell. Isn’t it interesting?

Renowned Scientist J.C. Bose has proved that the harmful invisible virus/insects/bacteria etc disappear by the Shankhnaad.
As soon as the Shankh is blown the frequencies of divine energy (Shakti) are emitted into atmosphere. These energy frequencies are seen in red colour. Along with these energy frequencies yellow circles of chaitanya are also projected in the atmosphere. You can also see the pink particles of Bliss being emitted in the atmosphere.
JC Bose further adds- "This increases the proportion of shakti (cosmic energy), chaitanya & anand in the environment and that is why the negative energies get distressed and run away.  Another speciality of Shankh is that the vibrations emanating due to Shankhnaad destroys the disease causing germs in the atmosphere".

Shankhnaad makes the atmosphere pure & conductive for the spiritual growth of the individual.
The moment Shankh is blown our brain is emptied of all thoughts. Invariably we will enter state of Trans state where we are very receptive. This "Trans state" is the one with awareness. Only way to awaken you is Shankhnaad.

Blowing of Shankh improves the lung capacity & improves respiratory system.

Stammering children can be corrected by regularly blowing the shankh .

I'll regularly blow Shankh atleast thrice a day. Will you???


Initially if you are unable to blow Shankh. Then listen Shankhnaad by following the
YouTube Link-https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=B1Ct9s9uQ_0#menu

Ginger

Ginger is a Powerful Antioxidant and it also strengthens the IMMUNE SYSTEM.

Ginger has potential for treating numerous ailments :-
📖 Common cough & cold
It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties for controlling the common cold, soar throat.
📖 Delays Ageing.
Its anti-oxidative properties are responsible for controlling the process of ageing.
📖 Strengthens immune system & prevents infectious diseases. It has antimicrobial potential which can help in treating infectious diseases. 
The bioactive molecules of ginger like gingerols have shown antioxidant activity in various modules. Inflammatory disorders like  influenza, soar throat, gastritis, esophagitis, and hepatitis, which are caused not only by infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria & parasites.
📖Helpful in Degenerative disorders by reducing oxidative stress
Arthritis and Rheumatism
📖 Helps in maintaining  Digestive health
Helpful food in cases Indigestion & Constipation, Vomiting, Nausea
Fresh ginger also contains an enzyme zingibain which is a cysteine protease and has similar properties to rennet.
📖 Prevents Cardiovascular disorders Atherosclerosis & Hypertension
📖Helpful in Diabetes mellitus and cancer.
Formation of free radicals or ROS during metabolism beyond the antioxidant capacity of a biological system, results in oxidative stress, which plays an essential role in heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and in the aging process.

The characteristic fragrance and flavor of ginger result from volatile oils that compose 1-3% of the weight of fresh ginger, primarily consisting of zingerone, shogaols, and gingerols as the major pungent compound.

Zingerone is produced from gingerols during drying, having lower pungency and a spicy-sweet aroma.

Shogaols have higher Antioxidant activity but is formed from gingerols during heating, storage or via acidity.

Common Indian recipes generally include boiling the grated ginger; eg in tea & curries or Finely diced ginger is pickled using lemon juice or vinegar. 

In both the cases heat or acidity helps in producing Shogaols from the gingerols present in ginger.

Shogoal which has higher antioxidant properties n anti-inflammatory properties makes it a preventive food.
So have ginger tea... Adrak wali chai & Improve your immune system .
It may help in combating CORONA virus too.