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Caesarean Delivery - All About C-Section Birth
It’s probably not the way you envisioned bringing your baby into the world, but remember that when your doctor tells you that you need to have a Caesarean delivery, it is because that is exactly what your baby needs from you.
Video: Caesarean Delivery – All About C Section Birth
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpzilpjOcBU
What is a C-Section Delivery?
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a C-section (Caesarean Section) as: “a surgical procedure involving incision of the walls of the abdomen and uterus for delivery of offspring.” This definition holds good today as well. C Sections can broadly be categorised into 2 categories:
1. Elective C-section
When the C-section is scheduled in advance, it is called an elective C-section. Many first-time mothers are now opting for C-section deliveries even though they may not have a medical reason to do so. While some opine that it is easier to arrange for leave or support when delivery is planned, others believe that it will help them avoid the pain and complications associated with vaginal deliveries. A doctor may also recommend an emergency C-section if the baby has a medical condition which makes a vaginal delivery risky.
2. Emergency C-section
When the C-section is done in response to an unexpected circumstance, it is called an emergency C-section. This is mostly necessitated when complications arise after labour has begun.
Read on for a comprehensive overview of the procedure along with information about post-natal care.
What Are the Reasons for a C-Section?
Our mothers and grandmothers have told us that giving birth is the most natural thing on earth, that there are women in villages who stop working in the fields and go behind a tree, deliver their baby, tuck it into a shawl and go right back to work! As easy as that sounds it is very rarely the case. Most people need a couple of days to recover from a normal delivery. Though a normal delivery (vaginal delivery) is preferred, there are many circumstances when a C-section is decided on.
For example, if you have experienced complications during an earlier pregnancy, or are already facing complications in the current one, you may need to opt for an elective C-section or a ‘planned repeat caesarean’. Here are a few situations in which you may have a planned C-section:
Your previous delivery was a C-section
Your baby is in a breech position (which means he is bottom down)
Your baby is in a transverse position (on the side), or changes his position frequently - also called an unstable lie
You have placenta praevia or a low-lying placenta
You have diabetes or a heart condition
You have lost a baby during labour or before labour in the past
You’re expecting multiples
Your baby is not following the expected pattern of growth and development in the womb
You have a condition which may make it dangerous to delay birth, such as severe eclampsia or pre-eclampsia
Some mothers request a caesarean because of an emotionally or physically traumatic experience. A mother may also be apprehensive of labour pains. Most doctors prefer to counsel the mother and encourage her to give birth vaginally in such cases.
Sometimes, if labour does not progress on expected lines, your doctor may choose to deliver your baby by emergency C-section. The speed with which an emergency C-section is executed is determined by the urgency of individual cases.
While an emergency caesarean is performed in response to an urgent need, the reason may not always be life-threatening. Some situations leading to emergency C-sections include:
Slow progress of labour. This is either because the neck of your cervix is not dilating rapidly enough when labour commences, or that there is an issue when pushing the baby out of the birth canal
The baby may be distressed or your health may be deteriorating
Your baby may be in a breech position which makes vaginal birth difficult
A very small proportion of emergency C-sections are carried out urgently as the life of the mother or baby could be in danger. This may be because of one or more of the following reasons:
The baby's oxygen levels or heartbeat indicate that he must be delivered immediately
You are suffering from severe pre-eclampsia
There is placental abruption in which the placenta comes adrift during labour. This may put the baby in danger
A prolapse of the cord occurs, which means that the cord slips out of the cervix before the baby. This is a cause for concern, as the baby’s oxygen supply may be cut off is the cord is squashed during the delivery
A uterine rupture occurs, which means that a scar from a previous delivery tears. This is a rare problem which happens to only 1 in 200 women
You experience heavy bleeding during labour
How is a Caesarean Delivery Done?
1. What happens during the procedure
Irrespective of whether the surgery is a last-minute decision or a scheduled surgery, the procedure of a C-section is a simple process with a set pattern. The surgery takes about 10 minutes to deliver the baby, and 30 minutes to stitch the incision. Here’s a quick lowdown about actual the C-section procedure step by step.
2. Preparation and Anaesthesia
The first of the caesarean section steps begins with the IV and anaesthesia. This is mostly a spinal block or epidural. This numbs the lower half of the body but you will remain conscious. Your abdomen will then be shaved and cleaned using an antiseptic solution. A catheter is then inserted into your bladder, and it will stay there for the duration of the surgery.
Your view of your abdomen will be blocked by a short screen. This screen not only keeps the field sterile but also blocks your view of the incision and delivery. While you may feel squeamish about seeing the cut, you are sure to want to see your baby. Ask your doctor to lift the little one up for you to see as soon as your baby is delivered.
In case of an emergency C-section, there is, sometimes, not enough time to numb you, and you may be given a general anaesthesia instead. This may leave you feeling nauseous groggy and disoriented, but the discomfort will pass. If an endotracheal tube is inserted during the C-Section surgery, you may also have a sore throat for a while.
3. Incision
Once you're anaesthetized, a small incision or cut will be made in your lower abdomen, just over the pubic hairline. Don't worry, if the scar is neatly sutured, it will be almost unnoticeable and will gradually fade. A second incision will be made in the lower part of the uterus to deliver the baby. There are two kinds of uterine incisions which may be made, and the doctor may choose to make two different kinds of incisions:
Types of Uterine Incisions in a C-section Procedure
3. A low-transverse incision
Used in most C-sections, this cut is made across the relatively thinner muscle in the lower part of the uterus
4. A vertical cut
If the baby is positioned low in the uterus, or is in an unusual position the incision is made down the middle of the uterus
5. The Delivery
After the incisions have been made, the amniotic fluid is suctioned out, and the baby is delivered. You may feel a slight tug when the baby is extracted. The excess mucus in its respiratory tract is then suctioned out, and you will be able to hear your baby cry.
Is a C-Section Painful?
As with any surgery, there's usually some degree of pain and discomfort after a C-section. The recovery period is also a little longer than for vaginal births. Right after the surgery, you may feel slightly nauseous, itchy, and sore; these are all normal reactions to the anaesthesia and surgery and your doctor might even prescribe medication for these reactions. Coughing and sneezing hurt a bit for a while.
Caesarean Birth- How to Prepare for a C-Section Delivery
Your state of mind is most important during a delivery be it a normal delivery or a C-section. The calmer you are, the easier it is on you and on your baby.
1. Create a C-section Wish List
As an expectant mother, you can control various factors surrounded to the surgery which will help make your experience a positive one. Here are a few options you may consider:
Music in the operating theatre
If you like some support from a friend or a relative do ask them if they can stay by your side during the C-section
2. A C-Section Delivery is Just Another Way of Giving Birth.
Prepare for surgery by eating healthy, working out regularly, and maintaining optimum weight. An active lifestyle ensures good health for your baby and increases your chances of having a problem-free surgery and rapid recovery. The fitter you are before a C-section birth, the easier it will be to handle post-surgery recovery. You will find it easier to handle tasks like getting up walking about and resuming a normal routine. Moving around post-surgery helps lessen any risk of blood clots and helps your digestive system function normally
3. Take Control
Eat lightly for 12 hours before to surgery if you're scheduled for a C-section. Food and waste move through your body with the help of a squeezing motion by the intestinal muscles. Because of surgery, the muscles of the intestines slow down considerably making it harder for the food and water to travel through the body. Eat light, easily digestible food which reduces gas build-up, and helps the intestines resume normal function sooner
4. Choose a mantra
Even if you have an unplanned C-section, you can still take a moment to recite a simple mantra -- a word or verse repeated over and over to help quiet the mind. This helps by calming the mind, engaging breath, reducing hormones related to stress such as adrenaline and cortisol, and increase the flow of oxygen through the body
Risks of a Caesarean Delivery
There are risks involved with a Caesarean delivery as with any major surgical procedure. It is important to know and understand your risks before having a caesarean procedure. A good understanding will help you in your discussions with your health care provider and help you make informed decisions.
Risks and Complications for the Mom
Do remember that most of the following risks are associated with any type of abdominal surgery.
Infection
The incision site, pelvic organs such as the bladder and the uterus are susceptible to infection
Haemorrhage or increased blood loss
A blood transfusion may be necessitated by excessive blood loss during a caesarean delivery
Injury to organs
There is a possibility of injury to organs such as the bladder or the bowel
Adhesions
The formation of scar tissue inside the pelvic region may cause pain and blockage. Complications like placental abruption or placenta previa may be caused in future pregnancies by adhesions or scar tissue
Extended recovery time
A C-section requires and extended recovery ranging from a few weeks to several months
Reactions to medications
There can be a negative reaction to pain medications or the anaesthesia administered after or during surgery
Risk of additional surgeries
A C-section may lead to additional surgeries such as bladder repair, hysterectomy or another caesarean
Maternal mortality
The rate of maternal mortality C-section births is higher than that of vaginal births
Emotional reactions
Some women may struggle to bond with a baby delivered via C-section as they feel dissatisfied with their birthing experience
Risks and Complications for the Baby
Premature birth
A baby delivered by a planned C-section could have low birth weight because of being delivered too early if the gestational age was not accurately calculated
Breathing problems
A baby delivered by C-section is more likely to have respiratory problems as indicated by some studies
Foetal injury
In rare cases, the baby may be injured during the incision made for the C-section surgery
Mother Care After a C-Section Delivery:
Recovery
It is natural to want to start taking care of your newborn, but it is important to remember that the time needed for emotional and physical recovery after a C-section is more than that requires after a vaginal birth. Make sure you get adequate post caesarean care so that you recover swiftly. You will need to spend three to four days in the hospital and another four to six weeks or rest at home before are back to your normal self.
Your doctor will ask you to rest and limit your movements so that you don’t put undue stress on the incision. Make sure you take the advice as ignoring it will lead to an extended recovery time.
Be careful
Your scar will be sore for several weeks. Make sure you refrain from carrying and holding anything except the baby. When nursing or cuddling, use a nursing pillow, or a normal pillow placed over your incision to lay the baby on
Take it easy
C-section recovery time is important. While it is important to take care of the new baby, it is equally important for you to take care of yourself. Don’t be shy about asking for help. Ask others to hand the baby to you instead of getting up every time. Do whatever it takes to make your life easier, and do it guilt-free
Keep a keen eye on your incision for a post-caesarean wound infection
You can accelerate the healing process of your incision by adopting a few easy practices
Keep the wound clean
Wear loose clothes that don’t irritate your belly
Numbness, pulling and itching around the incision are normal and will fade. Call your doctor if you are in pain, suffering from a fever, or the if the wound is oozy or red. These may be symptoms of an infection. While some clear fluid discharge is normal, it is advisable to talk to your doctor about it anyway
Take off the pressure
Avoid foods or drinks that may make you gassy, as the build-up of gas can cause discomfort. Not only does it put pressure on the incision, but can also be a sign of indigestion which is caused as the anaesthesia slows your bowel activity down. If you do have indigestion, try drawing up your knees and taking deep breaths while lying on your left side or your back. Make sure you hold your incision site for support and to avoid injury
Stay regular
Constipation is a common problem many women face after pregnancy. Make sure you relax and avoid straining when you are on the toilet. Eating fibre-rich foods like vegetables and fruits and drinking plenty of fluids is one of the precautions you should take after a C-section. Your doctor may advise a mild laxative or stool softener if you face any problems
Nourish yourself
Your diet after a C-section is important; healthy food and lots of water is essential to maintain your strength and energy
Get moving
You’ll have to wait until your incision heals before you resume a regular workout schedule, but it is easy to exercise and facilitate recovery even when your movements are restricted. Boost circulation and muscle tone by stretching the calf muscles, flexing your feet, and wiggling your legs as much as you can comfortably. As your stamina increases, walk slowly around the house, resting frequently. This helps improve your digestion too. Walking around helps build stamina, and soon enough you will feel well enough to venture out for a stroll with your little one
Although it may be a challenge to resist taking charge of your little one and your home, remember that you must be fit enough to do justice to the task
Also Read: Benefits & Risks of C-section Read more
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Drinking Wine While Pregnant - Safety, Benefits & Risks
Food restrictions during pregnancy require women to give up some foods and beverages that are deemed unsafe. While unwinding with a glass of wine may have been your usual way of drawing an end to the day, the same practice is largely not recommended for pregnant women. However, there may be some women who claim that they have had a normal pregnancy and a healthy baby even after enjoying an occasional glass of wine during pregnancy. This puts many pregnant women in a dilemma and gives rise to the constant question of can pregnant women drink wine without facing any complications?
Is Drinking Wine during Pregnancy Safe?
Pregnancy complications caused due to alcohol consumption is usually associated with excess consumption of alcohol. These complications may not affect as strongly with occasional drinking. However, with not enough information to back the consumption of wine during pregnancy, no amount of wine is considered to be safe during pregnancy. Hence, pregnant women are advised to avoid it completely.
Risks of Having Wine When Expecting
Drinking white or red wine in pregnancy can put your baby at risk for mental and physical disabilities. This is the reason why most healthcare professionals ask pregnant women to steer clear of all kinds of alcohol during pregnancy.
Some of the risks of drinking wine during pregnancy include:
Your developing baby in the uterus will have a liver that is not equipped to process the alcohol that reaches it through the placenta and the umbilical cord. This can hamper the fetal development and cause physical and mental abnormalities in the baby.
Excess concentration of blood alcohol in the baby can hamper the process of oxygen delivery to the organs and the tissues of the fetus.
Excess consumption of alcohol in pregnant women also puts the baby at risk of developing foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). This causes the baby to have smaller skulls and lower birth weight. Babies born with FAS may also have facial abnormalities, developmental delays before and after birth, defects in the brain and spine, and in some cases may even display signs of mental retardation. These babies have a higher likelihood to have learning disabilities later in their lives. Lack of coordination, poor memory, low IQ, vision and hearing problems, speech delays, and heart and kidney problems are some of the other complications that FAS may cause.
Benefits of Wine during Pregnancy
Although drinking any amount of wine during pregnancy is advised against, there may be a few benefits that can result from drinking wine.
Drinking Red Wine during pregnancy can
Prevent heart diseases. The antioxidants in red wine can raise the level of the good cholesterol or HDL (high-density lipoprotein)
Prevent damage to the arteries and obesity.
According to a study, children of mothers who consumed red wine in moderate amounts were found to speak better, recognize more letters of the alphabet, identify more flowers, in comparison to the children of mothers who completely avoided alcohol during pregnancy.
Drinking White Wine in pregnancy can
Prevent anaemia
Improve lung function
Help maintain the muscles of the heart
Despite the benefits, it is always recommended that pregnant women stay cautious and
Myths Related to Wine and Pregnancy
Due to a lot of uncertainty that surrounds the topic of drinking wine during pregnancy, there are many half-truths that have been doing the rounds. Some of the common myths associated with wine and pregnancy are,
Myth: A few celebratory sips on a special occasion or while on vacation is harmless.
Fact: Since the body doesn’t discriminate between normal days and special occasions, no amount of alcohol on any day throughout pregnancy should be entertained.
2. Myth: One glass of wine does not expose the fetus to alcohol in the womb
Fact: Any amount of alcohol consumed during pregnancy reaches the fetus through the placenta and the umbilical cord easily. This may put your baby at a higher risk of FAS. Hence, it is wise to avoid even a negligible amount of wine during pregnancy.
3. Myth: Drinking wine is during pregnancy is better than taking cocaine or heroin
Fact: While all substances of abuse including cocaine, heroin, marijuana, alcohol, etc., have harmful effects on the baby, it is found that in comparison alcohol causes the worst neurobehavioral effects on the fetus. Hence, all of these substances, including alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy.
4. Myth: Real damage due to drinking can only be caused by excess consumption.
Fact: Alcoholic women have a higher chance of giving birth to babies with fetal alcohol syndrome. However, this does not mean that mothers who drink moderately have nothing to worry about. There is no definitive understanding of how alcohol affects individual women and their developing babies. The reaction of every fetus and the mother to alcohol differs and may even be dependent on their genetic make-up. Hence, even if you are not an alcoholic, you may stand the risk of giving birth to a baby with FAS.
5. Myth: Alcohol exposure causes only physical deformities in a baby. A normal looking baby has not been affected by alcohol.
Fact: Physical deformities are found in babies who have been exposed in the womb within a specific period of time. In most other babies, the effects of alcohol exposure present themselves as cognitive and behavioural problems. It is also possible that the symptoms of alcohol exposure in children are very subtle and common with other disabilities. Diagnosis of FAS is also challenging as its features are known to change as the children grow older. As a consequence, only one in ten children with FAS are ever diagnosed.
6. Myth: A doctor or healthcare professional has no say on the lifestyle choices of any woman during pregnancy.
Fact: As they are aware of the risks that drinking wine during pregnancy causes, doctors and healthcare professionals have the moral and ethical responsibility of advising their patients against it. These suggestions are made in order to protect the health and the well-being of the baby.
Wine and Pregnancy Studies
Collaborative Initiative on Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, a research consortium has published several studies that have analyzed the moderate level of prenatal exposure to alcohol. A recent British study has also shown that small amounts of wine during pregnancy do not cause any measurable risk. However, this study has not performed comprehensive testing of the children or taken into account any maternal factors.
A study published by the University of Queensland in 2013 stated that pregnant women who drink even two glasses of wine during each of the drinking sessions could impact their child’s performance at school adversely.
The Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research in 2012 indicated that the effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol are dose-related and found no evidence of a safe threshold. Mothers who consume alcohol during specific periods of their pregnancy stand the risk of giving birth to babies with low birth weight and reduced length, a smooth philtrum ( the vertical space between the nose and the upper lip), thin vermillion border (demarcation of the lip and the adjacent skin) and microcephaly.
A study by the International Journal of Epidemiology in 2012 concluded that consumption of even small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy could increase the risk of spontaneous abortions.
An Alcohol, Research, and Health study in 2011 found that drinking a moderate amount of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, preterm delivery, stillbirth and even increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Other studies like the Alcohol, Health and Research World in 1997, also found that even small amount of alcohol during pregnancy can cause development problems in the child. Hence, it is advised that wine or any form of alcohol during pregnancy is completely avoided.
With contradictory information available about the risks of consuming wine for pregnant ladies, it is globally agreed upon by most healthcare professionals that it is best if you abstain from drinking wine throughout the pregnancy. This will prevent your baby from coming under harm’s way in the womb and later in life. Read more
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Awakening The 7 Chakras for Your Overall Well-Being
Chakra is a Sanskrit word that translates to spinning wheel and symbolises spiritual power in the human body.
We are all beings of energy and interconnected on a spiritual level with the universe. Hinduism and Buddhist scriptures describe how the opening or balancing of these chakras determine the quality and our way of life. As living beings, we have 7 chakras in yoga:
Root chakra (below the tailbone)
Sacral Chakra (few inches below the belly)
Solar Plexus (few inches above the abdomen)
Heart chakra (at heart)
Throat chakra (at the throat)
Third eye chakra (in between the eyebrows, on the forehead)
Crown chakra (top of the head)
How to Open Your Seven Chakras?
Activating the 7 chakras healing benefits begins by first feeling or acquiring a sense of them. You can do this by first going through this 7 chakras meditation exercise.
Seat yourself in a quiet environment, where you won't be disturbed. Inhale and exhale deeply and in a slow manner. Let the tension and stress melt away. Feel your body and mind and drift into stillness.
Now, shift your attention to your tailbone or the base of your spine. Begin by visualising a bright red light that is spinning. Sync its pulsing and rotating sensations with your breath. Pause here for a moment. Move your attention to a few inches below your belly button. Feel a bright yet warm orange light that's spinning this time. Note how it moves with your breath.
Guide your awareness above the belly button towards the gut. You should sense a bright yellow light spinning this time. Hold and continue moving your awareness up towards your chest. It's a green spinning light, and you may coincidentally place your hand there during this process. Shift your attention up to the throat and notice an indigo light spinning. Pause, and finally, move to the top of your head. You should see a violet light spinning and a wave of calmness.
Congratulations! You've just had a taste of your seven chakras in the body. Let's move on to some yoga poses and exercises you can do to clear them up or heal them.
1. Root Chakra
The root chakra grounds you to your surroundings.
Sanskrit Name: Muladhara
Scent: Jasmine
Mantra: Silence after the Om
Colour: Bright red
Element: Earth
Yoga Pose: Tree Pose
What it Stands for Emotional Security, a feeling of being grounded, and prosperity
Location
Below your spine at the area where your tailbone is located
How To Perform
Stand erect on the floor with your weight evenly distributed and feet shoulder-width apart. Feel your feet ground to the floor and only be aware of your physical presence.
Lift your right leg and place the foot on high on the left thigh. Make sure you are balanced.
Clasp your hands in a mudra pose and inhale slowly. Bring your arms over your head and gaze at a distant object to maintain balance.
As you breathe, make sure your spine is erect. Relax your body as you breathe in and out in this pose. Release your right leg and come back to your initial standing position. Repeat on the other side.
How It Benefits You
Physical Benefits
Triggers relaxation response in the body
Enables a feeling a being grounded to the earth
Emotional Benefits
Emotions balance out
Sensual emotions towards partner increases
Mental Benefits
Promotes mental calmness and stability
Feelings of happiness or joyfulness
Spiritual Benefits
Connects you with your consciousness
Melts away any prejudices, fears, paranoia, and anxiety
Expands awareness of your surroundings
2. Sacral Chakra
Sacral Chakra is one of the spiritual chakras that is responsible for creative output, sex drive, imagination, and productivity in day-to-day life.
Sanskrit Name: Svadisthana
Scent: Tangerine
Mantra: Vam
Colour: Orange
Element: Water
Yoga Pose: Goddess Pose
What it Stands for: Creative thinking, artistic skills, emotional balance
Location
Few inches below your navel, at the centre of the abdomen
How To Perform
Begin by taking a stance of the mountain pose. Place your feet four feet apart and lower yourself into a squat
Your toes should be pointing away while your arms should rest at your hips
Breathe deeply, bend your knees and make sure they align with your toes. Your legs should be parallel to the floor during this phase. Now, stretch your arms until they're at shoulder-height and raise them towards your chest, into a Namaste Mudra.
You should feel your tailbone tucking in and your hips pressing forward. Gaze at the horizon or far away, hold for 30 seconds, and release. Repeat from the start again.
How it Benefits You
Physical benefits
Sexual satisfaction
Feelings of inspiration, romance, and confidence
Emotional Benefits
Joy
Peacefulness
Mental Benefits
Increase in creative and out-of-the-box thinking
Playful minded
Spiritual Benefits
Feelings of inspiration and motivation
A zest for life and a passion for living
Staying attuned to the present
3. Solar Plexus Chakra
The Solar Plexus Chakra governs confidence, self-esteem, and a feeling of purposefulness.
Sanskrit Name: Manipura
Scent: Lime
Mantra: Ram
Colour: Yellow
Element: Fire
Yoga Pose: Boat Pose
What it Stands for: Confidence, Self-Esteem, A sense of purpose
Location
Few inches above the navel, at the top of the abdomen around the diaphragm region
How To Perform
Lie flat on the floor and bring your legs and arms close to each other. Breathe deep and inhale.
Exhale and lift your legs, arms, and chest off the ground. Make sure your eyes are in line with your toes and fingers in this position. Hold and breathe gently for a minute.
Exhale and release, going back to your starting position.
How It Benefits You
Physical benefits
Improved digestion
Boost in immunity
Emotional Benefits
Brings a sense of healthy emotional control in life
Reduces impulsivity
Mental Benefits
Better memory
Clearer decision-making skills
Spiritual Benefits
Ability to take constructive feedback and criticism easily
Personal and emotional independence
More self-discipline
Positive self-image
4. Heart Chakra
The heart chakra fosters a sense of bond or connection with others.
Sanskrit Name: Anahata
Scent: Eucalyptus
Mantra: Yam
Colour: Green
Element: Air
Yoga Pose: Camel Pose
What it Stands for Compassion, affection, empathy, and love
Location
At the centre of your chest, slightly towards the left
How To Perform
Kneel on the floor and make sure the soles of your feet and pointing at the ceiling. Your hips, knees, and arms should be in alignment.
Inhale and tuck your tailbone into the pubis, giving a pulling sensation at the navel.
Arch your back behind and stretch gently until your fingers touch your souls. Your arms should be extended, and your head should face a neutral position.
Hold for a minute and slowly release.
How It Benefits You
Physical benefits
Regulates blood pressure
Improves immunity
Emotional Benefits
You feel emotionally more open and accepting of others and yourself
Mental Benefits
Gives you a sense of compassion
Allows you to emotionally and mentally connect with others
Fosters self-forgiveness
Spiritual Benefits
Brings inner joy and peace
Promotes a feeling of emotional abundance
5. Throat Chakra
The throat chakra makes you an outgoing and approachable person.
Sanskrit Name: Visuddhi
Scent: Lavender
Mantra: Ham
Colour: Blue
Element: Ether
Yoga Pose: Bridge Pose
What it Stands for: Communication and self-expression
Location
At the throat
How To Perform
Lie flat on the back with your arms and legs by your sides
Swiftly lift your legs, buttocks, and back in a way that the elbows support your bodyweight. Bring the elbows closer together and clasp your hands in this pose. Point out your toes and make sure not to press your bodyweight on the neck.
Hold for a minute or half and take deep breaths.
Release gently by lowering your knees and unlocking your hands. Relax by reverting to your starting position.
How It Benefits You
Physical benefits
Improves your sense of hearing
Enhances social and communicative skills
Emotional Benefits
Instils feelings of independence
Mental Benefits
Releases negative emotions
Improves creative abilities
Spiritual Benefits
Promotes self-expression
Dissolves fears and discomforts
Fosters a sense of spiritual and emotional balance
6. Third Eye Chakra
The third eye chakra is responsible for heightening your sense of intuition.
Sanskrit Name: Anna
Scent: Vanilla
Mantra: Om
Colour: Indigo
Element: Light
Yoga Pose: Easy Pose
What it Stands for: Intuition, telepathic abilities, the convergence of the mind and body, clearer decision-making
Location
In between your eyebrows, on the forehead
How To Perform
Sit on the floor and cross your legs, facing opposite knees
Create a gap between the feet and pelvis. Let your palms rest on the knees and make sure your spine is erect.
Inhale and pull up your spine. Exhale and let your shoulders relax, with your chest broadening and shoulder blades loosening
Close your eyes and relax. Breathe deeply and bring your tongue close to the roof of your mouth, touching it. Relax and hold, making sure to breathe in rhythm. Release and repeat this exercise by crossing your legs the opposite way.
How It Benefits You
Physical benefits
Improves interaction and communication with others
Awakens your Higher Self
Emotional Benefits
Increased emotional awareness
Boosts Emotional EQ
Mental Benefits
Increased memory and retention rates
Balances left and right brain hemispheres
Spiritual Benefits
More positive and focused
Increased confidence and self-belief
7. Crown Chakra
The crown chakra is the chakra that is responsible for connecting with your spiritual self.
Sanskrit Name: Sahasrara
Scent: Jasmine
Mantra: Silence that follows Om
Colour: Violet/White
Element: Cosmic Power
Yoga Pose: Lotus Pose/Corpse Pose
What it Stands for: Detachment and Enlightenment, Freedom from Ego
Location
At the top of the head
How To Perform
Lie flat on the floor with your legs spread comfortably apart. Make sure nobody disturbs throughout this pose.
Close your eyes and face your palms open and upwards
Breathe slowly and deeply. Keep breathing gently for 10 to 12 minutes until you start feeling relaxed. Roll to your sides and stay still for a minute. Sit up straight, slowly gain awareness of your surroundings and return to your regular life.
How It Benefits You
Physical benefits
Physical drive and motivation
Experience the beauty of the world
Enjoy restorative sleep at night
Emotional Benefits
Feelings of bliss
Fosters a sense of deep connection within and with others
Mental Benefits
Increased self-worth and peacefulness
Spiritual Benefits
Feelings of liveliness
Expanded spiritual awareness
Development of mindfulness
FAQs
Have questions about chakras? We answer them below.
1. Why Do Chakras Get Blocked?
Chakras get blocked when you go through hard times in your life such as injuries, emotional trauma, devastating illnesses and accidents. It could be due to stress and continuing relationships with toxic people as well.
2. What are the Side Effects of Opening Your Third Eye?
The following are some of the side effects of opening your third eye-
Mild migraines
Pressure on forehead
Temporary Hallucinations
3. How Do I Heal My Chakras?
You can heal your chakras by meditating, spending time in nature, and adapting lifestyle habits which are emotionally and mentally positive. Simple things like practising gratitude, journaling your thoughts, indulging in creative activities, etc., make a big difference.
4. How Do I Clear My Heart Chakra?
You can clear your heart chakra by shifting your mindset and starting to view things in a positive light. Practising gratitude, wearing comfortable green clothing, and chanting the mantra 'YAM' while meditating are proven ways to clear any blockages lying dormant.
5. Does Reiki Clear Chakra?
Yes. Reiki does help clear the chakras.
Opening your chakras takes time and patience. Repeat these exercises without judgment or expectations, and you'll eventually begin getting the results you want. The critical element here is the practice which makes these poses are fantastic for opening them up.
Also Read:
Amazing Benefits of Meditation for Happiness and Success
Incredible Benefits of Yoga for the Entire Family
Yoga Poses for Couples to Strengthen Relationship Read more
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Zika Virus Found in Gujarat! Experts Share 8 Symptoms & Precautions Every Family Must Know
Last Friday (May 26, 2017), the World Health Organisation released a statement: three cases of Zika virus have been reported in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, through routine blood surveillance. The Zika virus is known to be very dangerous, especially to pregnant women and children, and this news is naturally panic-inducing! Here's what you must know about Zika and how to keep your child and family safe from it, in the light of this recent development.
The Zika virus, spread by the Aedes mosquito, has been causing havoc in the world around us. For quite some time, we thought we were safe, as Southern California, Southern U.S., the Caribbean and Puerto Rico had been indicated as high-risk zones. However, recently, the first three cases of Zika virus were detected in India, in a locality called Bapunagar in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Some medical experts are of the view that Zika can damage the brains of foetuses and cause lifelong brain-related problems, potentially incurable! Which means your baby may be infected and suffer brain damage even BEFORE coming into the world.
So, what can you do about it? Is India also on the brink of a Zika virus outbreak?
Zika Virus In India – What Does The WHO Say
In response to the three Zika virus cases reported by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare-Government of India, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has already taken steps to prevent and/or control a prospective outbreak in the country.
National Guidelines and Action Plan related to Zika virus have been shared nation-wide with respective state officials.
Airports and ports have been alerted to the situation; both are taking corresponding measures to ensure prevention of an outbreak.
In their bid to assess gravity of the situation, around 500 mosquito samples were collected from the respective area in Ahmedabad (where the three Zika virus cases were detected) and tested for Zika virus. The samples tested negative for presence of Zika virus. This, and an in-depth analysis of the cases reported, suggests a low level transmission of Zika virus.
However, since the Aedes mosquito that carries the Zika virus has a wide geographic presence, the spread of Zika virus is high-risk. Now that India has reported its initial Zika virus cases, however, it is time we educate ourselves about the virus.
What is Zika Virus - Are You At Risk?
Zika virus transmission occurs through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. This is the same breed of mosquito that also causes dengue and chikungunya. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you could be at risk.
Have you recently traveled to Southern California, Southern U.S., the Caribbean or Puerto Rico? These are among the high-risk zones. However, Zika virus in India was also reported as early as in the 1950s!
Have you had unprotected sex in the recent past? There is a likelihood of Zika spreading through sexual contact with an infected person.
Do you have a mosquito infestation around your home? If you experience symptoms (below), it could be Zika fever and you should get a blood test done.
Symptoms Of Zika Virus
Fever
Sore body
Headache
Red eyes
Body rashes
Abdominal pain
Nausea
Diarrhoea
You should get a blood test done at the earliest if you can observe any of the above symptoms in yourself or in your child.
While these symptoms usually last for a few days and then disappear, there have been a few instances where Zika has been linked to Guillain-Barre – a neurological condition leading to muscle weakness and even paralysis.
How Zika Can Harm Your Unborn Baby
There is some evidence that Zika is linked to microcephaly - a birth defect where the baby is born with a shrunken head. His brain fails to develop completely and he suffers from impaired cognitive skills all through his life. Many such babies also have a reduced life expectancy.
What's even more worrying is that many pregnant women with Zika fail to get diagnosed. Microcephaly too may be hard to diagnose in the foetus, and often goes undetected till late in the pregnancy. Currently, there is no known treatment though Zika virus vaccine research is underway.
The Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) is also doing its bit to counter this problem. Microcephaly being one of the biggest concerns associated with Zika virus, the RBSK is monitoring the number of microcephaly cases being reported. A rise could indicate a possible outbreak of Zika virus, hence this WHO-directed move of RBSK is indeed highly-appreciated!
What You Must Do To Stay Safe
Get rid of standing stagnant water around your home. This prevents mosquito larvae from hatching.
Zika can possibly be sexually transmitted, though this has not been confirmed yet. Safe sex (using a condom or other barrier) is recommended.
If you are planning to get pregnant and are anxious after figuring out whether you are at risk, it may be advisable to delay conception for a while. Medical experts are trying to confirm whether the feared linkage between Zika and microcephaly is indeed true.
If you are pregnant, you must go in for a foetal ultrasound and amniocentesis to diagnose if you have been infected by Zika.
Ensure that your children wear long sleeves when playing outside in order to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Use an insect repellant spray indoors to keep mosquitoes from entering your house.
Ask your neighbourhood health and cleanliness officials to spray larvicide and use fumigation near possible breeding sites.
The WHO Pesticide Evaluation Scheme has recommended use of certain insecticides as larvicides; insist on using the same in your locality. Please get in touch with the authorities in your area to evaluate this
The Good News - Zika Virus Vaccine Made In India
Finally, here's some good news. Amidst the worldwide Zika scare, Bharat Biotech International Limited, a Hyderabad-based lab, has reportedly developed the world's first vaccine against the Zika Virus! Dr. Krishna Ella, Chairman and Managing Director, has sought the government's support on this. The development and delivery is being fast-tracked so that the epidemic in fellow countries like Brazil can be abated.
Zika seems to have taken a stronghold over the world. But with constant medical and scientific research, and the heartening news of Zika virus medicine made in India, we are sure things will soon take a turn for the better.
In the interim, stay informed; stay safe! Read more
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Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. Is it okay if my baby does not pass stool for one day?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. no need to worry about the frequency and colour of the stool if the consistency of the stool is semi solid to solid.
also there is no need to worry about the smell of the stool if the consistency is normal.
you have to meet the doctor if it is watery inconsistency or hard consistency otherwise semi solid to solid stool is normal.
also passing stool after taking food is normal. r
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
2 hours ago
Q. Q.Asktheexperta# I m an expecting mother of 29 yrs. LMP 10 Feb 2024 . my husband's HPLC report shows thalassemia minor trait while mine is hb d Punjab trait . can we continue with this pregnancy ??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Well you should check with your gynaecologist for that she has to go through all the reports and the issues that you are facing you and your husband and accordingly she can tell you what is the situation how your child is going because lot of things depend upon how the child is growing
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
1 hour ago
Q. Hi doctor, I had scan on 33 weeks 2 day, it stated that AC and HC Is <2.3% which is corresponding to 31 weeks. So overall growth of baby avg is 31 week and 2 days.
will there be any issue with the baby.I have attached my report
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
27 mins ago
A. For the query asked needdhs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
57 mins ago
Q. I am having pain on my right breast while breastfeeding. Latching position is correct. it is a mix of burning sensation and pain. Pain lasts for few minutes after breastfeeding also
Dr Ghouse
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55 mins ago
A. nipcare ointments ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
55 mins ago
Q. When baby movement starts??
Dr Ghouse
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28 mins ago
A. 5-6 months ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
31 mins ago
Q. hello dr..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Dr Ghouse
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A. the levels are on the lower side. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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