PHYSICAL

I have often observed that we take care of our body and mind only when we are face a health scare. Have you also wondered about the same? During and post Covid, many people took to following regular exercise schedules and also eating healthy. Wasn’t this a byproduct of the insecurity we faced when life had become priceless? When death was literally knocking on our doors? It is a natural human tendency to ignore what we possess and to obsess over things we don’t have. We are all in some invisible race, running behind some unknown goals, hustling for some additional income or setting targets for the future. In this fast paced and competitive environment we need to wake up to the fact that we can actually achieve all that and more only if we have a well -oiled and efficient machinery, our bodies. Simple physical exercise routines, some breathing techniques and mindfulness can help us wade through difficult situations. Once a simple routine is set the only hurdle would be, consistency. It is even more important today, than ever, to work on our bodies. With the discovery of new strains of viruses and imbalances in our environment it is now imperative that we learn to love and shower attention to our bodies and address mental well being. This would not only help us to be able to succeed in our future endeavours but also live a quality life. Do you have a simple health routine?

Physical: April 1 2024

The word ‘physical’ invokes a sense of mobility, movement and strength. The more mobile you are the better your chances of living a happy and productive life. Advances in technology and medical science have made it possible to enjoy longer lifespans but do they also guarantee a good quality life? This may be a debatable question.

The frequent use of appliances and modern gadgets at the workplace and homes have induced a sedentary lifestyle. Also finding time from stressful work schedules, long commutes or balancing a work life balance is becoming harder thus compounding issues of physical health.

Walking for at least half an hour daily or even walking up stairs are easy to do. However, this too may be a challenge for some. Stretching after approximately every 30 minutes is a great way to release physical and mental stress. Consciously taking deep and controlled breaths can regulate your body’s ability to cope with stressful situations. Just remembering to get up from a seated position can also facilitate some form of relief.

Can we find at least 10 mins a day to breathe in order to maintain a healthy existence? Have you heard of Tai Chi? An ancient Japanese technique, Tai Chi literally means’ meditation in movement’. You may consider registering for our Initiation to Tai Chi workshop at Catharsis for manifold benefits. Your life is precious and so is your body so treat both with responsibility, love and care.

Physical: May 1 2024

The definition of Rest is to cease from action or motion. Rest is synonymous with relaxation. We refer to rest in connection to our physical bodies. After a tiring day at work we need to rest, like stretching, getting ample sleep or not doing anything. In such a state of calm, the physical body heals and recuperates from the stress and fatigue. 

Do you know that we also practise other variations of Rest? Have you heard of Creative rest? This involves indulging in creative pursuits that revitalise and rejuvenate our mind. This is the need of the hour when mental health is the focus of our existence and wellbeing. Activities like learning to play a musical instrument, creative writing, painting or sketching and even going out in nature.

Many individuals consciously choose spiritual rest.  They practise meditation or do spiritual exercises or yoga as a part of their daily routine. 

Counsellors and practitioners advise social rest when we spend quality time with our friends or family  members who matter to us the most as they are instrumental in helping us find our happiness by altering and elevating our mood.

Do consider two, very important types of rest, that you need for a healthy body and peaceful mind. They are  mental rest and sensory rest. Taking regular breaks from the workstation, engaging in stretches or even walking a few paces is proven to de-stress the mind. This provides a much needed distraction that clears up your mind, boosting productivity.

The overuse of gadgets causes unexpected damage to the mind and body. Unplugging from electronics an hour before  bedtime can help reduce stress and help the mind to relax while the body is healing.

What are some forms of rest that you choose to include in your daily routine ? Do you practise all of the above?