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Yoga for Kidney Stones - 7 Best Asanas For Instant Relief
Since ages, yoga has been guiding people towards a healthy life by providing natural remedies for various diseases. Side-effects? Mostly no. Avoid some only if you have existing complications. Diseases can be cured and the growth of few can be lessened. So, If you get to hear that you can get rid of kidney stones by performing asanas, believe it. Yoga can cure problems related to kidney stones. But not just that, in the process, it can boost your other limbs and organs and help revitalise you.
The kidney’s role in the digestive system is an important one. Sieving out the excess water and wastes from blood is its round-the-clock job. These wastes bid adieu to the body by going out via urine. But if excess calcium or urea gets stored, they can form crystals or commonly known as, stones. They can trigger profuse sweating, severe back pain and the need to urinate continuously. Visit a doctor in such cases. But the disease can be cured if you drink plenty of water and perform a few asanas.
How Does Yoga Help Treat Kidney Stones?
Yoga stretches the body and provides a boost to the vital organs. These organs then start acting at their optimum capacity. Yoga is known to get rid of cramps, nausea, restlessness and spurs the function of the kidney. If practised regularly, then from the tiny to medium-sized stones, you can dispose off. But dietary chart, physical structure, and lifestyle can get the results varied.
Yoga Poses to Get Rid of Kidney Stones
There are quite a few yoga asanas that help with the removal of kidney stones.
1. Ushtra Asana
Ushtra Asana is known to prevent kidney stones. If you already have kidney stones, this asana can help you steer away from the symptom. The pose sends fresh oxygen to the kidneys and helps in detoxifying them.
Steps to Do
Stand on your knees.
Keep both hands next to the body.
Slowly, bend the body backward as much possible.
Hold the heels with your hands.
Continue for 10 seconds while breathing normally.
Resume the first pose.
Repeat once.
2. Uttanpadasana
Source: Pinterest
This asana is excellent for the muscles. It strengthens the muscles of your lower back, legs, abdomen and pelvic area. By helping the abdominal muscle to contract, it improves functions of your pancreas, kidneys and liver.
Steps to Do
Lie down on your back.
Keep your arms resting beside your body, palms facing the ground.
Exhale and then breathe in slowly and raise your legs in a 90-degree angle.
Keep your legs straight and point your toes up.
Hold the pose and breathe normally for 15-20 seconds.
Exhale slowly and bring down your legs.
Repeat this once.
3. Pawanmukta Asana
This pose can help you get your digestive system better. This asana assists you with your gastric problem, lessens the impact of constipation and relieves you of kidney stones.
Steps to Do
Lie down on your back.
While inhaling, bring both your knees close to your chest. Hold the pose.
Try to get your nose close to your knees.
Take a few long breaths.
Then exhale and release.
Repeat this thrice.
4. Bhujanga Asana
This asana improves blood circulation in the body. This asana stimulates organs in the abdominal region and optimizes kidney function.
Steps to Do
Lie down on your belly with legs together.
Place the palms beside your shoulder.
Inhale and lift your upper part of the body.
Relax the shoulders.
Keep breathing normally for 15-20 seconds.
Slowly exhale and come back to your previous position.
Repeat this once.
5. Dhanur Asana
The pose resembles a bow. Dhanur asana is also known as Urdva Chakrasana. This asana improves kidney function, which can ease your symptoms of kidney stones.
Steps to Do
Lie down on your belly.
Keep your arms on either side of your body with your legs apart.
Breathe in and then as you breathe out, bend your knees and grab your ankles with your hand.
Inhale and pull your chest up and raise your legs up straight.
Look ahead and stretch the body with just your belly touching the ground.
Hold the pose and breathe for 15-20 seconds.
Exhale and release the pose.
6. Garuda Asana
Garuda asana improves the body balance and strengthens the muscles of your lower body. It increases the flow of blood to the kidney and boosts its function.
Steps to Do
Stand straight.
Lift your right leg first and cross it around your left thigh.
Balance the body on the left leg.
Raise both your elbows to shoulder level.
Cross your left arm over your right elbow. Bring your palms closer.
Stay in the pose for 15-20 seconds while breathing normally.
Release the pose and relax.
Repeat it with opposite legs and arms.
Relax and stay in Savasana.
7. Ardha Matsyendrasana
This asana is perfect for people with obesity and is one of the best yoga exercises for kidney stones. Ardha matsyendra asana betters the functioning of the kidney, liver, stomach and pancreas. This one is highly recommended for people with urinary disorder and obesity.
Steps to Do
Sit comfortably and stretch out your legs.
Bend the left knee and place the heel under your right thigh.
Place your right leg over the left knee and the left hand over the right knee.
Put the right hand behind your back.
Twist the waist towards the right and your gaze over the right shoulder.
Hold the pose for 15-20 seconds.
Exhale and get back to sitting posture.
Repeat the asana on the other side and finally, relax.
Yogic Lifestyle & Dietary Discipline Tips to Prevent Kidney Stones and to Relieve the Symptoms
By making slight changes in your dietary plan and lifestyle, you can gift your body a healthy kidney and get rid of kidney stones.
Home-cooked foods are the best. Outside food should be consumed once in a blue moon.
Eat more fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Stay away from high-potassium food. Opt for iron-rich foods.
Ayurvedic diet can provide better nutrition.
Drink lots of water and sleep soundly for at least 6-8 hours.
FAQs
Few questions are often raised while considering yoga for kidney stone pain.
1. Does Pranayama Help with Kidney Stones?
The answer is yes. Pranayama helps with breathing which is essential for any type of cure. That is why pranayamas can be useful if you want to stay away from kidney stones.
2. Which Pranayam Works Best with Kidney Stones?
Anulom Vilom works wonders to get rid of kidney stones. This pranayama is good for congestion removal. It detoxes the body completely and eases the pain associated with kidney stones. If you make it a part of your regular routine, you can avoid the formation of new stones.
So, get your yoga mat ready and start doing these asanas. Remember, along with being ideal for getting rid of kidney stones, yoga has other health benefits too. Practice yoga every morning to stay fit and healthy.
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Yoga for Healing Asthma
Yoga Poses to Try to Overcome Depression
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Brittle Bone Disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta) in Babies
Osteogenesis Imperfecta means “Imperfect Bone Formation”. It is a condition in which bones break easily due to some mild trauma and at times even without any apparent cause. In some severe cases, the baby may suffer fractures while he is in his mother’s womb whereas in milder forms the patient may experience multiple fractures over his entire lifetime. A person suffers from it when collagen (a protein in our body which makes our bones strong) production is less. It occurs due to defective genes passed on from the parent.
What Is Brittle Bone Disease?
Brittle Bone Disease also known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta is a condition in which the bones are weak as a result of which the bones become brittle and are prone to breaking easily. Along with bones, the disease weakens the muscles, makes the teeth brittle and may also cause loss of hearing in people.
Types of Brittle Bone Disease
This disorder is characterised by a fragile skeleton. There are four types of genes responsible for collagen production. A combination of any of these genes or combination of all four together can be affected.
Type 1 OI
This is the mildest and the most common form of the disease that a baby can have. In this type, the body produces normal quality collagen, but it is not sufficient enough for the body’s needs. It can cause bone fractures due to mild trauma and may also affect teeth causing dental cracks and cavities.
Type 2 OI
This is the most severe form of OI and is fatal. The Collagen production in this type of the disease is either insufficient or of poor quality. People suffering from this type of the disease have bone deformities like narrow chest, broken or malformed ribs and underdeveloped lungs. The pregnant woman can bear a miscarriage, or the baby can be stillborn
Type 3 OI
This is another severe form of the disease. In this, the body produces enough collagen, but it is not of the desired quality. As a result, the affected baby’s bones start breaking in their mother’s womb itself. Bone deformities can be seen too, and they get worse as the child grows older.
Type 4 OI
The symptoms of this type may range from mild to severe. Like Type 3 OI, the collagen production is enough but of is of poor quality. As a result, children born with this type have bowed legs. The good news is that the bowing tends to lessen with age.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Causes
Direct Genetic Inheritance From A Parent
When a parent who suffers from OI passes on the faulty gene to the child, he is also born with the same OI as the parent.
Dominant Genetic Mutation
About one – fourth cases of OI are born into a family that has no history of the disease and are not a result of inheritance from the parents. Rather it occurs due to a new or spontaneous genetic mutation.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Symptoms
The symptoms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta or Brittle Bone Disease vary from type to type in their degree of Bone fragility and fractures and in some cases bone deformity.
Type 1 OI
Bone fractures happen mostly in the early years of a child and decrease in frequency after attaining puberty
The person may be a few inches shorter than the same gender relatives
Little or no bone deformity
In some rare cases, the person may suffer from brittle teeth
Some people may also suffer from loss of hearing
Blue sclera (bluish colour in the white portion of the eye)
Gets easily bruised
There may be mild delay in motor
Type 2 OI
Severe body deformation like undersized chest and under-developed lungs
Usually stillborn or the baby may die in the first months of life
Some who live to be adults suffer several fractures
Extremely short stature with a tiny chest and as a result, underdeveloped lungs
Type 3 OI
Fractures at birth
Severe early hearing loss
Loose joints and poor muscle development in arms and legs
The rib cage is barrel-shaped
The individual has triangular shaped face
May suffer from respiratory problems
Type 4 OI
Fractures common mostly before puberty
Curved spine
Loose joints
Teeth may be affected
The bone structure may get enlarged in places where fractures have occurred or even without any occurrence of fractures
Diagnosing Osteogenesis Imperfecta
The first step towards diagnosing OI is going through family history. Once that is done, the doctor will examine the medical history of the person. The doctor will then ask for -
X-ray test to evaluate the bone structure, internal tissues and internal organs.
Biopsy of the skin to examine the collagen.
Audiometry test to detect hearing test.
In a case where the pregnant woman has OI, a procedure called Chorionic Villus sampling is done in which cells from the Placenta are taken for testing. This tells if there is any collagen defect in the foetus which could lead to OI in the baby.
Another procedure called Amniocentesis is done by inserting a thin needle into the amniotic sac to draw out the amniotic fluid.
Treatment For Osteogenesis Imperfecta
There is no treatment for completely eliminating OI. However, treatments can be given to prevent or control symptoms, and it can vary from one individual to another.
Fracture Care
Care should be taken to heal the fractures and to minimise them by being careful not to cause even the slightest of trauma.
Physical Therapy
It is usually a combination of muscle strengthening and aerobics. Children would be given exercises by physiotherapists to strengthen muscles and aid in improving motor skills which are usually delayed due to OI.
Medication
Medicines can be prescribed to ease the pain. Vitamin D and Calcium should be taken to improve bone health.
Surgery
In some cases, surgeries can be carried out to amend deformities.
Bracing
People affected by OI can wear support braces in the legs to provide support for weak muscles, decrease pain and keep the joints properly aligned.
Counselling
People suffering from OI may suffer from low self-esteem or personality disorders. Therefore Psychiatric counselling is an essential part of the rehabilitation program.
Related problems due to OI like loss of hearing may require these patients to wear hearing aids and crown/braces in case of dental deformities. Some people with underdeveloped lungs could also require oxygen administered from external sources.
Taking Care of Your Infant
Infants are fragile and vulnerable. And infants with OI are even more so. Therefore infants with OI should be carefully handled since they are more prone to fractures and may have several bone deformities. Here is a list of things parents should do while handling OI infants.
While carrying the infant or moving him, the parent/caregiver should be slow and gentle. Any hastiness, pushing, pulling or bending the infant could result in fractures. While picking up the infant, care should be taken not to hold him around the rib cage. This could fracture the rib cage.
The head and trunk should be supported with one hand, and another hand should be under the baby’s buttocks. Utmost care should be taken while handling the infant during his dress/diaper change or while feeding.
Placing OI affected infants on their stomachs could suffocate them.
Infants with OI cannot feed well. Therefore they should be breastfed more often than others. Severe OI in infants may cause breathing difficulties. In such a case, the mother can pump her breastmilk and feed her baby from a bottle.
The infant should be re-positioned time to time while in his bed so that the soft skull does not turn flat on one side.
Lastly, infants with OI should be given the same amount of love as you would give to your other child without OI. This being a lifelong disorder, parents have to be mentally prepared to overcome the hurdles associated with this disorder and bring up their baby in the best way possible.
Locating the Fracture in Your Infant and Ways to Deal With It
Sudden crying could be a sign of pain caused by a fracture in an OI affected baby. Firstly try and calm him down and once he calms down a bit, try and touch his body parts gently. If he starts crying on touching a certain part of his body, it may be fractured. Pick him up gently and place him in the car seat carefully with adequate padding. Be sure to drive slowly so that there is no jerking. At the hospital do not allow anyone other else than the doctor or the nurse to handle the child.
What Is the Long-Term Outlook?
The Long Time Outlook differs from type to type.
Type 1 OI
People affected by this type can lead normal lives in comparison to some of the severe types.
Type 2 OI
It is a severe form of the disease and usually fatal. The baby may be stillborn or may die in few months. While some suffering children from this type of OI may live to adulthood, they may suffer several bone deformities.
Type 3 OI
Children with this type may suffer severe Bone deformities and may have to take the help of wheelchairs to move around. Their lifespan is also shorter than the milder types of Type 1 or Type 4.
Type 4 OI
People with this form of the disease may have to take the help of crutches or wheelchairs to walk around, but their lifespan is normal.
Precautions to Take
The Brittle Bone Disease in babies can cause a lot of worries for the parents. A lot of care and precaution should be taken while handling such infants. Here is a list of things to be kept in mind -
Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Infants causes Fractures by a simple push or a pull. Therefore care should be taken to avoid it.
Caution should be taken while inserting IVs, taking blood pressure or taking an X-Ray.
The dosage of medicines should be according to the size and not the age in OI affected infants.
In case you feel that your baby has had a fracture, refrain from moving that particular part of his body.
Do not keep an infant’s head positioned only on one side. His head position should be carefully changed now and then so that his soft skull may not flatten only on one side.
Never place your hand under the rib cage while lifting a baby with OI. It may cause a fracture in the rib cage.
The thought of bringing up a child having a disability due to Osteogenesis Imperfecta may seem like a Herculean task, but with time you will come to terms with it. Along with patience and lots of care, parents of children affected by the disease should not shy away from filling their lives with love and affection.
Also Read: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis(JIA) In Children
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Tomatoes for Skin - Here's How It Helps You Get Gorgeous Skin
Most of us like to relish juicy and succulent tomatoes in our salads, gravies, sauces and other various forms. Do you have any idea how this versatile kitchen staple can do wonders for your skin? Well, it may come as a pleasant surprise to most of us that tomatoes not only taste good, but they are also loaded with umpteen health and even skin benefits. If you wish to know more about tomatoes and how they can actually help you get beautiful skin, reading this post will help!
9 Amazing Benefits of Tomatoes for Skin and Face
Tomatoes are good for boosting immunity, preventing blood clots, lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, beneficial for bones and teeth and are loaded with umpteen health benefits. However, if you are looking to have clean and clear skin, a tomato is something that you cannot give a miss. Not only is this small fruit loaded with ample nutrition, but it is also great for healing and curing various skin conditions. Let us find out more uses of tomato for skin in this section:
1. For Glowing Skin
One of the best tomato uses for the face is to have a glowing complexion. Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C, which is a natural skin brightening agent. Therefore, you can apply tomato juice or rub a slice of it directly on your face to obtain a skin that glows brightly.
2. For Reducing Oiliness
Tomatoes contain natural astringent properties, which make them an ideal ingredient to remove that extra oil from the face. All you have got to do is rub your face with a tomato wedge or simply apply juice all over the face and rub for a few seconds in circular motions, to expose a shiny skin that is sans oil.
3. For Reducing Open Pores
Open pores can be an eyesore, but there are resorts to overcome this problem too. Instead of using any chemical on your skin to get rid of this skin condition, you can simply use tomato to cure this skin for you. This natural astringent not only reduces the open pores but it also great for preventing the occurrence of black and white heads on the skin.
4. For Fighting Cellular Damage
Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, which is great for preventing and reducing free radical damage. It is also great for reducing skin redness and for fighting cell damage. All these properties prove to be ideal in making the skin appear more youthful by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
5. For Fighting Stress
Stress is not only a mental state - sometimes, our skin feels stressed too. However, tomatoes work effectively in reducing the symptoms of visible stress from the skin, thereby leaving the skin looking fresh and rejuvenated. No wonder many spa treatments and other facial treatments use tomato extract for giving the skin that much needed freshness and rejuvenation.
6. For Protecting the Skin From Sun Damage
The sun can take a toll on your skin and make it dull, lifeless and tired. However, you can make use tomatoes to overcome your sun-related skin woes. Tomatoes are power-packed with a natural compound called lycopene. Lycopene is an anti-oxidant which is great as a natural sunscreen. Tomatoes provide protection from the harmful effects of the sun such as ultraviolet or UV rays.
7. For Removing Skin Tan
Some people may love to flaunt a sun-kissed skin. However, there are others who may like to get rid of it. Well, tomatoes are great for reducing the skin tans. Tomatoes not only contain vitamin C and anti-oxidants but they also contain natural skin brightening and lightening properties. All these qualities make tomatoes an ideal ingredient for reducing the skin tan. It also prevents the skin dryness that can get caused because of strong UV rays.
8. For Preventing the Signs of Ageing
Ageing is a natural process; however, with optimum care can help in delaying this inevitable phenomenon. Tomatoes may prove to be of great help in delaying the process of ageing by giving a skin a healthy and youthful glow. Tomatoes help the skin to get optimum oxygen, which in turn prevents the ageing signs and symptoms to a great extent.
9. For Smooth Skin
We all desire a smooth and supple skin. One of the best ways to get smooth and radiant skin is by using tomatoes. Tomatoes are ideal for scrubbing off the dead skin cells, preventing blackheads and whiteheads, thus making the skin appear smoother and softer.
Homemade Tomato Face Packs and Masks for Various Skin Problems
In the above section, we talked about the benefits of tomatoes for the skin. Tomato on the face overnight or for a few minutes can result in beautiful and supple skin. Let us find out some simple and effective face packs that you can make to treat various skin problems:
1. Face Pack for Dark Circles
This pack works perfectly for curing dark circles.
What You Need
2 tsp tomato juice
Few drops of pure aloe vera gel
What You Need to Do
Take aloe vera gel and tomato juice and mix nicely.
Apply the mixture on your under eye area. You can apply the mixture on your entire face too.
Leave the mixture on for 10 to 15 minutes and then wash your face with cold water.
How Often to Use
If you wish to see quick results, apply this pack once or twice a day. Tomatoes are loaded with bleaching properties, and aloe vera soothes the skin. Together, both these ingredients work effectively in reducing dark circles.
2. Face Pack for Skin Blemishes
If you are thinking about how to apply tomato on the face, well, you can apply it in its pulp form, juice form or mixed with other ingredients as a pack. This pack works well for skin blemishes.
What You Need
2 to 3 tablespoon tomato pulp
1 to 2 teaspoon
What You Need to Do
Take a bowl and put both the ingredients in it and mix thoroughly.
Apply liberally on your face and neck and leave it to dry or let it sit for 10 minutes.
Wash your face with lukewarm water.
How Often to Use
You can apply this pack twice a week for best results. Tomato helps in brightening the skin and honey helps in providing moisture to the skin.
3. Face Pack for Acne
If you are wondering how to use tomato for acne or tomato for pimples, well, you can do a tomato facial at home or even use a tomato face scrub to keep off pimples. However, a face pack does wonders too and here’s how to make it!
What You Need
1 small tomato
4-5 drops tea tree oil
1 tsp jojoba oil
What You Need to Do
Cut the tomato into half and scoop out the pulp in a bowl.
Mash the pulp nicely, add tea tree oil and jojoba oil in it and mix well.
Apply this pack all over your face, leaving your eye area.
Leave the pack on the skin for 15 minutes.
Wash the face with warm water then splash some cold water.
How Often To Use
Use this mask two to three times a week. This mask works well in controlling the excess oil production by the skin, thereby reducing the occurrence of pimples and acne.
4. Face Pack for Dry Skin
Wondering how to use tomato for dry skin, well, try this pack if you are suffering from skin dryness.
What You Need
1 tomato
1 tsp olive oil
What You Need to Do
Cut the tomato and squeeze out the juice into a bowl.
Add olive oil and mix nicely.
Apply the tomato mixture on the face and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Wash your face with warm water.
How Often to Use
Apply this pack two times a week. Tomatoes and olive oil combination not only nourishes the skin from within, but it also removes dryness.
5. Face Pack for Glow
If you are looking for ways to use tomato for glowing skin, this pack may help you achieve the desired results.
What You Need
1 medium-sized tomato
¼ tsp turmeric powder
2 tbsp sandalwood powder
What You Need to Do
Cut the tomato, remove the seeds and scoop out the pulp.
Mash the pulp nicely; add turmeric and sandalwood powder, mix well.
Apply evenly all over the face, let it dry.
Wash your wash with warm water.
How Often To Use
You can apply this pack every alternate day. Turmeric, sandalwood and tomato combo works really well in brightening the skin. It also helps in removing any skin discolouration and helps in attaining an even complexion.
We hope you will make use of this wonderful kitchen ingredient for getting beautiful and radiant skin!
Also Read:
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Hand Washing for Kids - Importance and Right Procedure
Kids are not born with a developed immune system. Their immune system is weak and is still developing, and hence, they are susceptible to numerous diseases and infections. And to combat this, hygiene is extremely important. One of the cornerstones of teaching your child to have a good sense of hygiene is to teach him why washing his hands is needed.
Importance of Handwashing
The importance of handwashing for children cannot be emphasized enough; a child’s hands are the most exposed part of his body and interact with more germs on an hourly basis than we breathe on a daily basis. These microscopic germs are the cause of some of the most dangerous diseases and illnesses that can occur in children. Therefore, it is important to establish lines of defence against these germs, and the first step towards that is teaching kids the importance of washing their hands, as well as the proper technique to do so, in order to clean their hands.
How Do Germs Spread?
Before learning about the proper technique for washing your children’s hands, it is important to understand the ways germs can spread. Here are the most common ways in which the dangerous germs spread to your child through touch.
Touching dirty surfaces is the most common way germs can spread to your child. And it's not just floors! Common surfaces such as computers, bathroom facilities, (even door handles!), and so on, which are shared by many individuals, can become breeding grounds for germs.
Playing in the dirt is another favourite activity of children that causes germs to spread. This is especially bad due to the amount of unhygienic components that the dirt kids play with is exposed to.
If your baby is still wearing diapers, he can run his hands on and inside his diapers, which are dirty and can be a source of germs entering his body.
Germs commonly spread when your child touches someone who is sick or is about to be sick.
Bad bacteria is all around your child, even in food. If your child touches bad food or water, this bacteria can contaminate him as well.
Exposure to germs and bacteria can happen through sweat. Your child can contract diseases by touching your sweat, or even his own sweat, that has been contaminated by airborne germs.
Which Infections Can Be Prevented by Washing Hands?
There are numerous types of infections that can be prevented by the simple act of washing your child’s hands. Some of these include the common cold, influenza, hepatitis A, meningitis, and bronchiolitis. It is important to remember that washing your child’s hands with soap kills numerous infectious bacteria and germs that could, if left unattended to, become dangerous.
When Should Kids Wash Their Hands?
Children need to wash their hands various times a day - this is especially required during, before and after certain activities. These activities include:
Before a meal.
After a meal.
After playing in the dirt.
After waking up.
Before going to bed.
After playing a sport.
After blowing their nose.
After going to the toilet.
Children need to wash their hands whenever they are exposed to germs. For more situations where children must wash their hands, talk to your doctor to know when they are in contact with harmful germs in common situations.
What is the Right Procedure for Handwashing?
The first thing to consider when teaching your child how to wash hands properly is looking at the proper procedure. Here are the most important hand washing steps for kids to follow:
When teaching kids to wash their hands, the first step they must know is to rinse their hands using room temperature water.
The second step is to teach them how to lather the soap. The procedure for lathering soap is to scrub soap around the palms, fingertips, under the nails, between the fingers, and the back of the palm.
Wash the soap off with room-temperature water.
Finally, they need to dry their hands with a clean towel.
How to Get Children to Wash their Hands
Children will not always want to wash their hands. They may feel that it is a restriction or a rule, and children always like to challenge their limitations. However, it is important to learn how to get them to wash their hands when they need to. Here are a few tips to help.
Make it a game: Making washing their hands a game can help kids be excited about their hygiene.
Sing while washing: Make the process of washing hands fun! An interactive song will motivate them to sing along while washing their hands, making it a fun and entertaining aspect of their day.
Reward them: By rewarding them for washing their hands, kids can become excited to do so. To do this, first set a benchmark of how many times they need to wash their hands, and the situation they need to do it in. At the end of the day, if successful, they get the reward.
Talk to them: Kids are smarter than we give them credit for - sit them down and explain to them the purpose of good hygiene. They are sure to understand why washing their hands is so important.
Teach them through videos: A lot of educational videos for kids have the ability to teach them to wash their hands. Show them a cartoon or video online that teaches them the lesson in a fun way.
Don'ts While Teaching Children About Handwashing
There are some points to consider when teaching a child any habit, especially about hygiene. Here are a few things to avoid when teaching kids to wash their hands.
Don’t scream at them for not washing their hands.
Don’t wash their hands for them.
Don’t let their tantrum take prominence.
Don’t lose your patience with them.
To better understand the do’s and don’ts of teaching your child any habit, talk to a child psychologist to see which techniques are good and which ones are not.
How to Wash a Baby's Hands?
When you are incorporating hand hygiene for children, consider their age. Washing a baby’s hand is very different from washing an older child’s hands; here are a few tips for the same.
Using a warm wet towel, clean your baby’s hand.
Lather baby soap on their hands gently.
Using another fresh, warm towel, clean the soap off.
Soak their hands in a bowl of lukewarm water.
Wipe with a dry cloth.
It is essential to remember that incorporating healthy hygiene habits like washing hands and brushing teeth should be done from an extremely young age, so that they become a part of your kids' lives automatically!
Also Read: Essential Healthy Habits for Kids Read more
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The Dark Side Of Kids' Reality TV Shows That Nobody Wants Parents To Know
The glamour world is very enticing, and when it comes to the one created for kids, it seems promising as a talent platform too. But what really goes on behind the camera? Turns out, being part of this glamorous world might have adverse effects on a child's mental, emotional and physical health! So is it really that promising?
Every child has talent, and as parents, we want the world to see this. Some are budding Michael Jacksons and some may be the next Shreya Ghoshals in the making. Some have artistic skills that are unique and some can enact any character given to them. As they say, every diamond needs polishing to shine bright; every little maestro requires proper guidance, training, and the right audience to exhibit their talent. But the point to be noted is – this is what we wish for as parents. Does your little one want this too? What if his wishes and dreams are different from the ones you see for him?
With the growing trend of reality television, there is no dearth of options to help kids showcase their talent to the world. But the reality of reality television is something that doesn't seem as bright as popularly believed. The truth behind the camera is hidden from the rest of the world and may not be as happy as one would think it would be.
Recently, two very acclaimed Hindi movie directors Shoojit Sircar (Director of the movie Piku and Pink) and Amol Gupte (Director of movies like Stanley ka Dabba and Taare Zameen Par) have requested a ban on kid's reality TV and unveiled the dark side of the glittery world. It sparked a huge social media controversy inviting support and criticism on the issue. Here's what went down.
The Reality of Kids’ Reality TV Show – Glittery or Dark?
Recently taking to Twitter, Shoojit Sircar appealed to authorities to put a ban on kids’ reality television. He said that it takes a toll on a child's overall health.
This tweet sparked a debate on which people expressed their opinions on the issue – in favour as well as in opposition. Soon after this, Amol Gupte shared another incident in an interview to a leading newspaper. He revealed what impact these TV shows actually have on children and their lives.
“They are brought from distant towns to Mumbai and huddled into cheap hotels with their parents. Every morning, they have to travel to the TV studio for rehearsals. These kids are wrenched away from all normal activities and are thrown into a single-minded devotion to lending their voices to these reality shows. They are made to shoot for countless hours, sometimes in humid non-airconditioned rooms. It’s barbaric."
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Amol Gupte talked about an incident where a little mishap on the sets left a little boy scarred for life.
"A little, blind boy had made it to the finals of a singing contest. Throughout the day he was rehearsing under gruelling circumstances for his song and finally at 1 am when he was to record, he lost his voice. The child was traumatised for life."
There are several reality TV shows where kids have to face harsh rejection, and not everyone is able to cope with the whole scenario or take it in their stride. This leads to a great mental and emotional trauma which takes a toll on self-confidence. Yes, it is imperative to teach our young ones to face their fears and take something positive from every situation, however doing so on a national television is perhaps not the correct way to do this.
Watch: Children breakdown due to elimination in a reality series
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTWgRxrRr8w
In another tweet, Meghna Prem, the creative director of some leading TV shows that involve children, replied to Sircar's tweet. He shared how he agreed with the negative effects of kids’ reality shows, even though he was from within the fraternity.
Meghna says, “Teenage kids are expected to diet to look a certain way, dress a certain way. Because unlike yesteryears, today when you are selecting a reality star, s/he can’t just be a great singer and not be good looking.”
These days, kids are not only expected to focus on their singing, acting or dancing but are also expected to be 'groomed' and become overall presentable in front of the camera. They are taught to be prepared for being performers and not merely artistes. They are told to impress the crowd and hence act/behave in a certain manner. Many claim that it takes away the innocence of children – and that is just NOT acceptable.
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Renowned singer Sunidhi Chauhan, who herself made her debut in the music world through reality TV, also commented on the issue. She drew a parallel between the singing reality shows that existed about two decades ago with those that are on air now. She highlighted how they have now become a sole TRP gaining medium.
“There were no back stories shared with the viewers, it was all about the quality of singing. Their singing will tell their stories, if they are good. I would never want my children to go through this. I don’t think it’s required for any reality show to make children do things that only older people would do. They don’t need to mature ahead of their age.”
The Flipside: What Others Say About Reality TV Shows for Kids
There are always two sides to any story, and while these TV shows have their cons there are many who believe they yield good results. The judge of a leading kids’ reality TV show, famous director Himesh Reshammiya, states that children are always given a choice to continue with the show. Co-judge and acclaimed singer Neha Kakkar too expresses her viewpoint by saying-
https://youtu.be/MMz5VvCQygo
"Life is all about competition. When they can handle challenges at this young age then they can surely have a successful career."
Judge and singer Javed Ali gave examples of personalities who started quite early and reached great heights in their career. He said, "Legends like Lata Mangeshkar, Sachin Tendulkar and others started their career at a very young age. If they had not begun from an early age they wouldn't have been here."
Neha Dhupia, actress, also agrees with this sentiment and says, "I feel it (reality shows) gives them confidence, a stage to perform and gives them direction may be 10 years early in their life. If somebody at the age of 9 or 10 realises that they want to become an actor, so there is no harm if there is a platform or stage is provided to them.”
Moreover, these shows are a one way ticket to instant recognition and fame, something that has attracted many Indian parents in the past. As parents, we only want the best for our child, and that's why we want their talent to be recognized and presented in front of a large audience.
What Attracts Kids To These Shows?
The idea of becoming a household name attracts many, and kids are the most easily influenced amongst them all. Besides, these days, reality talent shows have the attraction of one or more celebrity figures. This draws attention of kids and parents alike.
Here are 3 major reasons reality TV shows for kids see such huge participation.
Instant Fame and GratificationReality TV shows come with many perks. From recording your own label to starring in a movie, from travelling to places including foreign locations to winning big bucks or gifts such as a luxurious car - the incentives are many. Children are easily swayed in by such promises and do want to try their luck with these stints.
Parental PressureIt has been observed that many times kids enter these programmes solely to fulfill their parents’ wishes. In fact, many of the times, it is a parent's unfulfilled dream of being a successful actor or a singer that makes them push their children to live 'their' dream. In other cases, the gratification also entices them to enroll their kids in these shows. Kids are burdened to fulfill their parent's long lost dream.
Genuine Interest in Art FormIn other cases, both the parents and the child are genuinely interested in the art form and want to take a step further into the performing arts world. They choose to give reality television a try to use it to further/initiate their career. These shows aid in building right connections that can help them in in the future if they wish to pursue their career in the field.
Effect of Reality TV on Children & What Parents Must Remember
Reality television has a huge impact on a child's life. It not only affects their daily routine but has an effect on their physical and mental health as well. Opinions differ among mothers, celebrities and experts on whether reality TV for kids is good or bad. But one thing is for certain and without doubt.
Before letting/encouraging our children to take part in such shows, it is imperative to assess why we want our child to do this. In case you are convinced it is the right option, do ensure you get your little one proper counselling from a professional before venturing into the medium.
Here are some negative effects of kids’ reality TV and tips parents must keep in mind to counter them:
Physically Challenging
When a child signs up for any show in any field (singing, acting or dancing), they need to be prepared for long and endless hours of rehearsals and adapting to various environmental conditions on the set. This can cause severe exhaustion and drain out all the energy from them. Not every child has the same level of stamina!What can you do: Ensure your child gets proper rest as well as a healthy and nutritious diet that will help them going throughout the day.
Emotionally Draining
It is important to understand that they are still kids at the end of the day, and any criticism or rejection can actually scar them emotionally. Their self-confidence takes a hit and they are apprehensive of interacting with their peers or stepping into the game again. While some children may easily take failure in their stride, it can be a hard battle for the more sensitive kids.What can you do: Judge of singing reality shows and acclaimed playback singer Shaan has suggested some effective solutions to tackle this problem. Shaan says:
“Counselling is a must on a children's show. There should be a counsellor for kids and parents. And the shows should not be extended just because they are doing well. Children shouldn't be kept away from their regular life for a long period. Some of them even continue to play that same image which got formed during the show. At that age, it is not easy to switch on and switch off. They start talking and behaving in the same way, and that doesn't allow them to grow."
Difficulty in Balancing Studies and Shoot LifeThese days, children face tremendous academic pressure. Therefore, when it comes to fulfilling dual duties, one of them takes a hit. We tend to overlook the fact that they are kids and not machines and cannot be expected to showcase exceptional level of efficiency. Balancing school life, homework and shoot schedules will definitely become a challenge for the little ones.What can you do: It is important to help your child through this all without letting their dreams or their academics suffer. Have a word with school authorities to make your child's submissions and lessons a little flexible so that he/she is able to cope and keep pace with the same. As a parent, you can help your children deal with academic stress and juggle both lves.
Note: These tips also apply when you’re enrolling kids for dance and music classes. It is a great idea indeed to help shape their talent, provided your child has the inclination towards learning the said art. However, it must never turn into a compulsion to widen their horizon of talent. If it is draining them out physically and mentally, and they’re ending up struggling with academics, please reconsider.
Reality television can be difficult to handle even for adults, let alone for kids. Keeping a child's innocence intact through it all is a challenge too. However, with proper support and guidance you can shape their dreams into reality. Remember, encourage your child to take part in competitions and shows only if they have a keen interest. Do ensure you take care of them through this journey. They need your support through it all. Let’s also remember that these shows are a part of their life and NOT their life in entirety. Read more
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Things to Keep in Mind When Introducing Baby to Solid Food
Start the day with something healthy like porridge with all veggies. Grind it and give your toddler a yummy and healthy start.
Include atleast one fruit every day in any form. You can try purees as they are easy to eat.
Introduce new flavours in the menu when required.
Nuts are good for kids too. But make sure you break them into smaller sizes or crush them to avoid choking.
Don't be very specific about healthy food always but avoid outside food. Homemade food is best for babies.
Keep salt and sugar level as low as possible. Sugar and salt should be avoided before the baby turns one.
Make your baby drink water as and when possible.
Raagi is also good for babies. Once the baby is one, introduce them to normal food that you eat but keep the salt less.
Avoid any videos or TV during meals. It's not good for babies.
Let the baby decide how much he/she wants to eat. Reduce milk intake and focus more on solid food. Reducing milk intake means do not replace milk with any meal. Milk should be used as filler.
Potato is good for babies so don't avoid potato. Make sure you do the three day test when introducing baby to something new to eat. This means repeat one type of food for three days in a row and see if the baby is allergic to something. If you find any allergies, avoid that food. See a doctor if required.
Oats, khichdee, daal-rice, poori, Parantha, curd, fruits in any form(avoid juices) are good for babies.
Apple puree is very easy to make and is tasty, healthy snack you can introduce to your babies food.Peal and chop apple in small pieces. Add little water so that you don't have to throw the left over water. Boil at simmer until the apples is soft. Grind and let the baby enjoy a healthy diet.
Good to know - Groundnuts increases appetite!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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