World Health Day: Practice these simple and highly effective wellness trends, now

Ruhi Gilder

An Instagram post reads, ‘When covid ends’ is like saying ‘When I get abs’.” I laughed/cried at the situation we find ourselves in, but the only way to get through it is by focusing on personal health and wellness.  

At a time when health is the most important aspect of our lives, World Health Day is a good reminder of what we should focus on. Here are wellness tips and tricks you can try out safely in the confines of the new normal.  

Homemade Kadha

As I write this, I’m sipping on my own concoction of hot water, ginger, turmeric, cloves, lemon and tulsi. An immunity booster and easy–to–make beverage, this Indian nuska is a universal favourite, gaining more popularity in the past year of the pandemic.  

Oil Pulling  

An ancient Ayurvedic oral hygiene technique, oil pulling or kavala involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth on an empty stomach for around 10 to 20 minutes. Benefits of this daily practice include whiter teeth, prevention of cavities and gingivitis, as well as better breath. You can use coconut oil or a vegetable-based oil, though be careful not to swallow it, and brush and rinse your mouth well afterwards.  

Meditation  

In a stress-filled world, meditation can be a great way to relax and unwind. For beginners, it’s important to start small, with daily 5-10 minute sessions. Use resources like Netflix’s Guide to Meditation or apps such as Headspace, The Mindfulness App to learn the proper technique, to train your mind to be more aware and present.  

Forest bathing  

Developed in the 1980s, Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku is an ancient Japanese technique in which the practitioner visits a natural, forested area and is mindful of all the 5 senses i.e., sight, taste, smell, hearing, and touch. You can practice forest bathing in any green area near you, as long as you can socially distance and engage your senses to remain in the now.   

Short workouts at home  

Working from home may be a boon or a bane, but it definitely reduces our active time. With the elimination of a daily commute, the body needs exercise to get the blood pumping. Start small by setting a daily step goal or sign up for a virtual class with a friend to keep you motivated. Regular workouts not only positively impact your physical health, but also your mental well-being.  

Technology detox  

Social media, gadgets, and technology are our only connection to the outside world right now. However, the online world can get overwhelming, and excessive screen time could lead to digital fatigue. Set aside an hour or two a day wherein you put your phone or laptop aside and spend that time interacting with family at home or doing an activity that relaxes you.  

Mindful and intuitive eating 

A big trend for 2021, mindful eating is not a strict, calorie-based restrictive diet. It’s simply being fully aware of the food you are consuming and putting in your body. It involves switching off all distractions, phone, television, and books, listening to your body’s hunger cues and appreciating your food. Based on a Buddhist concept, it is said to promote weight loss and reduce binge eating. 

Regular virtual family and friends meetings 

Conversations around mental health have become very important during the pandemic. As physical interactions with people lessen once again, regular virtual catch-ups with friends and family are of utmost importance. Whether it’s just a monthly chat or a special birthday celebration, social interaction is essential to mental wellness. 

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