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News18
2 days ago
- Health
- News18
World Brain Day: Natural Ways to Improve Brain Health and Build Mental Resilience
By gently stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms, homeopathic therapy addresses the root causes, whether stress, dietary deficiency, emotional trauma, or chronic fatigue The power-packed kilogram and a half of soft tissue in the human body is the most extraordinary and complex object in the universe, offering endless possibilities for problem-solving, innovation, and invention. Yes, the brain is fundamental to all our conscious experiences, yet not everyone takes the right measures to improve brain health and build beneficial pillars for its optimization. 'The brain is a muscle that can move the world," the words of one of the great novelists, Stephen King, reflect how the brain is a powerful tool that can unlock the full potential of the human body. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, says, 'Over the years, lifestyle changes have led to early degeneration, and individuals suffering from excessive chronic stress. It is thus imperative that the quality and quantity of brain health are supported by beneficial evidence-based approaches which, when practised consistently, can improve brain function, help prevent decline, and build the adaptive mental strength needed to thrive in a complex world." An in-depth report by the World Health Organization's (WHO) Brain Health Initiative outlines strategies to improve brain health worldwide. The framework, known as the 'neurological quadrangle,' emphasizes prevention, healthy lifestyle, cognitive stimulation, community engagement, and equitable access to care as core pillars in optimizing neurological health at national and global levels. Modern neuroscience and ancient homeopathic principles both provide real, natural means for optimizing brain health and neutralizing the sensitivity of the stress receptors present in the brain. Both show striking alignment in their approaches to brain health, particularly through their shared emphasis on individualized, holistic care and measurable physiological outcomes. Combining these evidence-based lifestyle interventions with holistic, individualized remedies creates a robust, low-risk approach to enhance cognitive function, resilience, and lifelong mental well-being. Cognitive strength has nothing to do with age; it is all about daily routines. Loading the body with appropriate foods, emotional health, and consistent rest are some minor modifications that significantly enhance brain health. Dr. Batra shares some tested and proven methods of ensuring clear thinking, eliminating stress, and enhancing brain functioning overall. Prioritize Deep and Restorative Sleep Sleep is the repair time for the brain. This is when it deletes toxins, consolidates memories, and recalibrates neurotransmitters. Chronic sleep deprivation can impair judgment, decrease attention span, and affect emotional control. Consistent deep sleep is non-negotiable for mental health. From a homeopathic standpoint, sleeplessness caused by racing thoughts can be addressed with Coffea cruda, while Nux vomica helps those who suffer from disturbed sleep due to mental strain. These are natural remedies that promote a return to restful sleep without causing any dependency or side effects. Eat for Your Mind, Not Just Your Body Nutrition fuels the brain. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins supports memory, concentration, and mental vigor. Including foods like walnuts, flaxseeds, berries, leafy greens, eggs, and whole grains helps sustain neurochemical balance and fight inflammation. Brain fog and burnout caused by poor nutrition or overexertion can be alleviated with homeopathic Phosphoric acid, which is especially useful for students and working individuals experiencing mental exhaustion. Move Daily — Even a Little Goes a Long Way Exercise oxygenates the blood, wakes up mood-boosting endorphins, and maintains cognitive function, all of which rely on brain oxygenation. Low-key activities such as brisk walking, swimming, yoga, or even dancing for just 20–30 minutes daily can make a difference. In cases of sluggishness or mental fuzziness resulting from inactivity, Calcarea phosphoricum is generally prescribed to rouse the body and mind. Although technology offers convenience, unregulated screen time creates information overload, attention deficit, and increased anxiety. Creating screen-free breaks throughout the day—during meals, before bedtime, or for an hour a day—gives the brain a chance to decompress. For those overstimulated by excessive digital exposure, particularly children, Sulphur in homeopathy helps quiet irritability and restlessness and restore the body's natural rhythms. Create a Culture of Learning and Curiosity The brain stays engaged and alert through lifelong learning. Tasks such as reading, solving puzzles, or learning a new instrument or language stimulate neuroplasticity — the brain's ability to adapt by creating new connections. Homeopathic Anacardium orientale is effective for cases of poor memory, confusion, or declining mental sharpness, especially in older individuals or students under academic pressure. Strengthen Social Connections Daily interaction with family and friends, working in groups, or having quality conversations activates parts of the brain linked with emotion, memory, and attention. Positive relationships help buffer stress and strengthen mental resilience. For individuals with social withdrawal or performance anxiety, Gelsemium sempervirens is known to alleviate the fear of anticipation and boost confidence. Manage Stress with Purposeful Intent Chronic stress reduces the size of the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for memory and learning. Deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or spending time in nature can calm the nervous system. The homeopathic remedy Ignatia amara is commonly used to support emotional steadiness during times of grief, sorrow, and emotional distress. Make Time for Creative Rest and Hobbies Apart from mental stimulation, the mind also requires unstructured time and creative rest. Leisure activities like gardening, painting, music, or writing provide much-needed relief from logical processing and trigger emotional and intellectual refreshment. In cases of mental burnout or fatigue due to excess intellectual activity, Picric acid assists in rebuilding mental acuity and focus. Practice Breathing Techniques for Brain Oxygenation Slow diaphragmatic breathing oxygenates the brain, reduces stress hormones, and stabilizes emotions. Simple exercises like box breathing or alternate nostril breathing, even for five minutes a day, can clear mental fog and increase concentration. These breathing exercises naturally complement homeopathic remedies that work to calm nervous system hyperactivity. Consistency Over Intensity Consistency is one of the greatest and most rewarding principles of life and medicine. Overambitious resolutions tend to fade, but small daily habits — going to bed on time, staying active, managing emotions, or taking constitutional remedies — build long-term neurological benefits. Homeopathy helps when remedies are taken regularly under professional guidance, suited to an individual's physical, mental, and emotional constitution. top videos View all Brain well-being is not a privilege; it's a necessity in today's world of challenges and better yet, it's accessible. With the right balance of rest, movement, mindful living, nutrition, and holistic care, mental clarity, emotional resilience, and intellectual strength can be developed at any age. For almost 50 years, the combination of holistic therapies and homeopathic understanding has helped patients reclaim their mental health naturally. As stressors evolve, so must we. These brain-boosting habits, supported with gentle homeopathic care, offer not just relief but the potential to thrive in a complex world. By gently stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms, homeopathic therapy addresses the root causes, whether stress, dietary deficiency, emotional trauma, or chronic fatigue. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 21, 2025, 12:25 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness World Brain Day: Natural Ways to Improve Brain Health and Build Mental Resilience Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
07-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Explained: What Is Heat Anxiety And Why Is It On The Rise In India
"Heat anxiety" refers to worry, discomfort or apprehension triggered by hot weather or high temperatures. It is also known as "heat stress" or "heat-related anxiety". Exposure to long durations of heat results in putting the human body in a stressful state. This activates the body's fight-or-flight response, resulting in increased adrenaline and cortisol levels, which trigger anxiety, agitation, mood swings, and disrupt sleep patterns," Padma Shri Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder-Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, told NDTV. The clinics have seen more than a hundred psychiatric cases, mainly anxiety and mood disorders in young adults during the 2025 heatwave, Dr Batra added. What are the symptoms of heat anxiety? Sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or nausea because of heat are some of the physical symptoms. Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or anxious when exposed to hot environments can lead to some emotional distress. People start avoiding outdoor activities or social events due to the fear of heat-related discomfort. "People with existing mental health conditions like anxiety or depression may feel worse during extremely hot weather," Dr Harini Atturu, Senior Psychiatrist, CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, told NDTV. "Even those without any history of mental illness may start to feel emotionally low or stressed." Just like cold and gloomy weather can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in some people, long periods of harsh summer heat can also lead to emotional and mental health challenges. "Complicating the situation further, dehydration and heat exhaustion can produce symptoms that mirror or amplify anxiety disorders, creating a dangerous cycle where physical and mental health deteriorate simultaneously," Dr Kunal Kumar, Senior Consultant, Psychiatry, Sharda Care Healthcity, told NDTV. Why is heat anxiety on the rise in India? A study, published in March 2025, highlighted how heat effects on mental health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) could vary from effects found in Western or high-income countries. Most LMICs lie in the Global South, and their populations are exposed not only to on average hotter but also more humid climatic conditions. The mental disorders have doubled since 1990 in India, with one in seven Indians suffering from mental illnesses, the study noted. The care for mental health is limited in India, and there's a treatment gap of 80% for common mental disorders. A Lancet study projects a 23% rise in India's mental illness burden by 2025, linking it to climate-related stress. The Journal of Affective Disorders recently found that heat waves significantly worsen mental health among rural students. "During the 2025 UP heatwave, hospitals saw 100-150 daily psychiatric cases, highlighting the urgent mental toll of rising temperatures," Dr Batra said. "Among urban and semi-urban populations exposed to sustained heat stress during summer, there is a clear rise in anxiety-like episodes, psychosomatic complaints, and mood dysregulation." Dr Kumar added that the crisis is acute in urban environments, where densely populated cities trap heat and limit access to cooling spaces. He said that the "heat island effect" intensifies psychological strain on residents, creating what researchers describe as a "perfect storm for mental health challenges". As per Dr Batra, adolescents and young adults are vulnerable because of their increased hormonal effects, digital overstimulation, academic pressures and social disconnection, all of which worsen the "psychological effects" of heat. Children and the elderly are also affected due to their decreased ability to control body temperature, and the issue could change into grave mental health matters if not managed carefully. "Mental health and weather are closely linked. As our climate continues to change, we need to start recognising the emotional impact of extreme seasons, not just the physical effects," Dr Atturu said. As climate change continues to drive temperature extremes across the region, addressing heat anxiety represents a crucial intersection of public health and mental wellness that demands immediate attention from both healthcare providers and policymakers.
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Business Standard
20-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Yoga for eye health: Natural ways to ease screen strain and boost focus
If your eyes feel dry, itchy, or strained after hours of screen time, you're not alone. In today's digital world, most of us spend extended hours on laptops and smartphones—leading to a very real and growing issue: digital eye strain (DES). But what if relief could be just a few yoga moves away? This International Day of Yoga, let's explore how yoga—traditionally known for enhancing flexibility and calming the mind—can also help relax and rejuvenate your eyes. What is digital eye strain? Also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, digital eye strain includes symptoms such as: Blurry vision Headaches Dry or watery eyes Eye fatigue Difficulty focusing 'Digital eye strain happens when the eyes get tired from looking at screens for a long time. Tablets, phones, computers, and even TV screens emit blue light, which can be harsh on the eyes. Prolonged exposure forces the eyes to work harder, leading to strain,' explains Dr Abhishek Varshney, Senior Consultant – Ophthalmology, Max Healthcare. Rub your palms together to generate warmth Gently cup your palms over your closed eyes Breathe deeply and relax for 1–2 minutes 2. Eye rolling – Stretch those eye muscles Improves flexibility and circulation. Sit straight, keeping your head still Look up and slowly roll your eyes clockwise Repeat 5 times, then reverse the direction 3. Focus shifting – Train focus and flexibility Reduces eye muscle stiffness and strengthens focus. Hold your thumb in front of your nose Focus on your thumb, then shift your gaze to something far away Repeat 10–15 times Bonus tips to support eye health In addition to yoga, try these daily habits to keep your eyes happy and healthy: Stay hydrated – Dry eyes are often a sign of dehydration Eat eye-friendly foods – Include carrots, spinach, and omega-3-rich foods Get natural light – Step away from the screen and walk in sunlight when you can Follow the 20-20-20 rule – Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds Dr Yogrishi Vishvketu of Akhanda Yoga Institute shares, 'True healing begins when we become conscious of how we hold our body, breath, and attention. Just 15 minutes daily of yoga-based eye care—Palming, Bhramari, or a simple inversion—can reset your visual system and bring your energy back into alignment.' "To support eye health from within, homeopathic remedies like Ruta Graveolens 30, for eyestrain from screens and Euphrasia, for irritation and watering can be considered under guidance."- informs Dr Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare. International Day of Yoga: A global reminder for inner and outer health Celebrated every year on June 21, the International Day of Yoga was first proposed by India and officially adopted by the United Nations in 2014. It aims to raise awareness of the many benefits of yoga—not just for physical wellness, but for mental clarity and emotional balance as well. This year, Yoga Day falls on a Saturday, making it the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and try a new wellness routine. The theme for 2025 is 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health', highlighting how individual wellbeing through yoga can ripple outward into families, communities, and society at large. The takeaway Incorporating just a few yoga-inspired practices into your day can help reduce digital eye strain, improve focus, and lift your mood. Think of it as a mini spa session for your eyes—anytime, anywhere. Instead of reaching for eye drops, try a little yoga. Your screen-weary eyes will thank you.
India Today
17-06-2025
- Health
- India Today
Why early natural care builds strong immunity in young pets during monsoon
Just like humans, young animals need a strong immune system to grow up healthy and happy. In the first few months of life, a pet's body goes through many changes. Their bones are growing, their internal organs are developing, and their social behaviours are just forming. During this time, their immune system is also learning how to protect them from young animals initially receive some protection from their mother, this immunity gradually diminishes over time. As a result, they become more susceptible to infections, bacteria, viruses, and allergens, particularly if their gut health is not well-developed. This highlights the importance of early care and immune support for ensuring long-term pet health. Insights from Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, emphasise this crucial WOES: WHY THE RAINY SEASON PUTS PETS AT RISKThe monsoon season brings many hidden dangers for young pets:More Infections: Rainwater and damp conditions create perfect breeding grounds for germs. Diseases like giardiasis and coccidiosis spread through dirty water and surfaces, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and Issues: Constant wetness damages the skin's natural defences. This can lead to fungal and bacterial infections, such as dermatitis and hot spots, which cause itching and hair and Flea Diseases: Conditions like ehrlichiosis and babesiosis spread faster in humid weather due to increased tick Illnesses: Diseases like canine distemper and leptospirosis rise during the rains. These are serious conditions that can affect the nervous system or cause kidney and liver TO KEEP PETS SAFE AND BUILD IMMUNITY NATURALLYPreventing illness during the monsoon requires a mix of simple, effective habits:Keep Pets Clean and Dry: Don't let them play in puddles or wet areas. Clean and dry their paws after Clean Drinking Water: Always give pets safe, filtered Vaccinations: Protect them against major diseases like distemper and Them Nutritious Food: A well-balanced diet builds strong Stress: A calm routine helps boost resistance ROLE OF HOMOEOPATHY: GENTLE BUT EFFECTIVE IMMUNE SUPPORTHomoeopathy can safely support your pet's immunity without harming their developing systems. These remedies are natural and work in tune with your pet's body:Thuja occidentalis: Helps pets respond better after Builds resistance to frequent Album: Useful for stomach issues due to dirty water or Toxicodendron: Treats skin infections caused by A general immune booster in homoeopathic pets build immunity is not about choosing just one method—it's about combining good hygiene, balanced food, timely vaccinations, and natural remedies like homoeopathy. With early care and preventive habits, pet parents can ensure their young pets grow into healthy, strong companions ready to face any season, especially the monsoon. A little attention today can give them a lifetime of strength and wellness.
News18
06-06-2025
- Health
- News18
Expert Shares How To Guard Against Fungal Infections And Flare-Ups This Monsoon
Last Updated: Monsoon brings relief from heat. But it also brings humidity and dampness which create ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive, making skin prone to infections. Indian monsoons bring welcome relief from the relentless summer heat, especially as climate change makes weather patterns increasingly unpredictable. Yet, along with the cooling rains comes heightened humidity and dampness that make for the perfect conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive. This surge in moisture poses a particular risk to the skin, making it vulnerable to infections and flare-ups such as ringworm, tinea capitis, athlete's foot, acne, eczema, and scabies. While this may sound alarming, knowing how these conditions develop and adopting simple preventive steps can keep your skin healthy and protected throughout the season. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares expert advice on how to prevent the common skin infections that often arise during the monsoon season. Ringworm is one of the most common fungal infections that appear during the monsoons. It is a circular, itchy, and scaly rash that typically appears as red, scaly edges and a clearer centre. It is a type of fungal infection which is rampant during the monsoon, owing to the excess humidity and moisture in the environment during this period, which is a fertile ground for fungi. Preventive Measures and Natural Remedies This is one of the most contagious fungal infections, typically affecting the scalp and hair shafts, primarily caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. This fungus on the scalp may be scaly or itchy and is mostly seen among children, particularly during monsoon, when damp conditions facilitate fungal spread. Preventive Measures Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) This fungal infection occurs due to sweaty conditions and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces like showers, swimming pool decks, and gym floors. Sharing towels, footwear, and socks can also spread the infection. The infection appears between the toes, resulting in skin peeling, redness, and itchiness. Preventive Measures Eczema Flare-Ups Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin infection. During the monsoon, the moisture in the air can lead to increased sweat, which can further irritate the skin and trigger Eczema flare-ups. Hydrate skin regularly with fragrance-free moisturisers. Use gentle bathing practices: Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, and pat dry instead of rubbing. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce irritation. Scabies Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin and leads to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. This condition spreads easily in humid environments, prolonging mite survival. Avoid prolonged skin contact with infected individuals. Wash clothes and bedding frequently in hot water. Treat household contacts simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Excess moisture and humidity are the prime reasons for the increased risk of skin infections during the monsoons. However, preventing them is very easy with proper precautionary measures like maintaining personal hygiene, dressing in breathable clothes, applying natural antifungal treatments, and staying away from shared personal belongings. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Fungal infections health and fitness lifestyle monsoon scabies skincare Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: June 06, 2025, 17:02 IST
