Latest news with #BhramariPranayama
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Exclusive - Dipshikkha Nagppal on why she swears by the practice: Yoga keeps me grounded and glowing
For actress Dipshikkha Nagppal, yoga isn't just a fitness routine—it's a spiritual discipline and a non-negotiable part of her daily life. While the actress also hits the gym, does Pilates, and loves experimenting with strength-based workouts, yoga remains her foundation for both physical and emotional well-being. 'Yoga has been my anchor,' says Dipshikkha. 'Even on packed shoot days, I try to squeeze in at least 20 minutes of practice. It keeps me calm, centered, and energetic—something that gym or Pilates alone can't give me.' Her journey with yoga began early, and it wasn't just a passing phase. 'In my boarding days, we were taught all the different types of yoga asanas, and I developed the habit back then. Since 4th standard, I have been doing yoga regularly,' she shares. It's this consistency over the years that has made yoga second nature to her. Despite a tight schedule that includes long hours on sets, she has found a way to blend multiple workout forms without compromising her commitment to yoga. She balances her routine smartly—reserving gym and Pilates sessions for alternate days while beginning most mornings with pranayama and light stretches. 'Yoga doesn't give overnight results—it works slowly, but the effects are deep and long-lasting,' she admits. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Laxmi Ji Idol For Wealth, Peace & Happiness Luxeartisanship Shop Now Undo 'It's about alignment, awareness, and inner strength. Once you start feeling that shift mentally, your body begins to follow.' Before heading to set, Dipshikkha makes it a point to practice Anulom Vilom and Bhramari Pranayama. 'Just a few minutes of breathing can change your whole approach to the day. It clears my head and helps me stay patient and focused while shooting.' Physically too, yoga has made a significant impact. 'It has improved my flexibility, posture, and even my digestion,' she adds. But the real magic, she insists, lies in the peace it brings. 'My mental health has definitely improved and I feel more in tune with myself.' Her go-to posture to stay fit? 'I love Trikonasana (triangle pose) and Vrikshasana (tree pose). They look simple but engage the entire body and mind.' On International Yoga Day, Dipshikkha has a simple message: 'Yoga isn't about bending into crazy poses—it's about bending toward a better version of yourself. Even if it's just ten minutes a day, show up for yourself. That's where transformation begins.' Deepshikha Nagpal Breaks Silence on 'Koyla' Scene Controversy
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
6 worst habits that could be harming your looks: Harvard liver specialist urges to stop these lifestyle mistakes
Looking younger isn't just about skincare or genetics—it's also about the daily habits that shape your overall health. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a liver specialist trained at Harvard and Stanford, recently shared science-backed advice on how certain lifestyle choices can speed up the aging process. From what you eat to how you manage stress, these factors can directly impact how old you look and feel, having broader implications for long-term health. In a YouTube video, Dr. Sethi outlined six habits that could be making you age faster—and what you can do to reverse the damage. Smoking: The Fast Track to Premature Aging According to Dr. Sethi, smoking tops the list as the most damaging habit when it comes to accelerating the aging process. It harms the skin's elasticity and reduces blood flow, leading to early wrinkles and a dull complexion. More importantly, it introduces harmful toxins that impact overall organ health, including that of the liver. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If You Eat Ginger Everyday for 1 Month This is What Happens Tips and Tricks Undo Excessive Alcohol Consumption Drinking too much alcohol is another major factor that contributes to visible signs of aging. Alcohol dehydrates the skin, causes inflammation, and can damage liver function over time. While occasional consumption might not be harmful, consistent overindulgence can lead to long-term effects on both appearance and internal health. Poor Sun Protection While sunlight is essential for vitamin D synthesis and general well-being, Dr. Sethi emphasized that unprotected exposure during peak hours—especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—can speed up skin aging. Failing to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing like hats can result in sunspots, fine lines, and an overall older look. He advised mindful sun exposure and proper protection as crucial for maintaining youthful skin. Chronic Dehydration Maintaining proper hydration is especially important during warmer months, Dr. Sethi noted. Insufficient water intake leads to dry, sagging skin and an overall tired appearance. Staying hydrated supports skin elasticity and brightness, helping people look and feel younger. High Intake of Processed Foods and Sugar A diet filled with sugary and processed foods not only impacts metabolism but also contributes to skin problems and inflammation. Dr. Sethi pointed out that excess sugar can damage collagen, a protein responsible for skin firmness, which leads to premature aging signs like sagging and wrinkles. Unmanaged Stress Dr. Sethi also highlighted chronic stress as a silent contributor to aging. Long-term stress can disrupt hormonal balance, affect sleep, and leave visible marks on the face. He shared that he personally practices "Bhramari Pranayama"—a type of yogic breathing known as the humming bee breath—to manage stress and improve overall wellness. Such breathing techniques can help calm the mind and improve emotional well-being. Dr. Sethi's message is clear: Small but consistent lifestyle changes can go a long way in preserving both youthfulness and internal health. From quitting smoking to practicing stress-reducing techniques, these evidence-based suggestions aim to help people age gracefully—inside and out.
News18
09-06-2025
- Health
- News18
6 Easy Desk Yoga Poses for Heart Health And Longevity
Last Updated: As more individuals and workplaces begin to embrace wellness, integrating Yogic micro-practices into daily routines offers a sustainable way to promote long-term heart health In today's fast-paced world, many of us are tethered to our desks for long hours—sometimes eight to ten hours a day. While our productivity might soar, our physical and emotional health often suffers silently. Research has shown that prolonged sitting is now considered as detrimental as smoking. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Studies have found that people who sit for extended periods have a 24% higher risk of early death. In India, the average daily screen time for working professionals has increased drastically post-pandemic, especially in tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurugram. With the rise of work-from-home and hybrid work models, many professionals now report over 9–10 hours of sitting time daily—contributing to poor posture, lower back pain, fatigue, and elevated stress levels. Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu, Global Yoga Educator, Author & Founder, Akhanda Yoga Institute emphasizes that while we may not always be able to change the demands of modern life, we can change how we meet them. His teachings encourage the integration of short yet potent desk-based Yoga practices to break the cycle of stress, stagnation, and burnout. 'Micro-practices repeated with awareness have the benefit of regular resets for the nervous system and breath—programming new habits that support the brain and body! Even two or three minutes of conscious breathing or spinal movement can shift the energetic blueprint of your entire day," shares Dr. Yogrishi. Here are six effective Yogic practices you can do right at your desk to rejuvenate the body and mind, reduce stress, and support heart and brain health: 1. Seated Cat-Cow Interlace your fingers behind your head or rest them on your knees. As you inhale, arch the spine and lift the chest; as you exhale, round the back and draw the belly in. Repeat for 1–2 minutes. Dr. Yogrishi adds, 'If you're able to use some floor area beyond your chair, dynamic cat-cow with active breathing for a few minutes is wonderful for opening the spine." 2. Seated Ardha Chandrasana (Side Stretch) Raise one arm overhead and gently bend sideways, keeping the opposite hand grounded on the chair or thigh. This helps release tension in the side body, ribcage, and lungs—often constricted during long desk sessions. 3. Neck and Shoulder Rolls Gently roll the shoulders backward and forward in slow circles. Follow this with neck half-moons—chin to chest and side-to-side movements—synchronized with the breath or paired with Bhramari Pranayama to relax tension stored in the upper back, jaw, and neck. 4. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana) Balance your nervous system and bring clarity with this calming Pranayama technique. Use your right thumb and ring finger to alternate breath between nostrils, inhaling and exhaling through one side at a time. Even 2–3 minutes can reduce anxiety and support heart rate regulation. 5. Seated Twist with Breath Awareness Sit tall with both feet flat on the floor. On an inhale, lengthen your spine. On the exhale, twist gently to one side, using the chair backrest or arm for support. Repeat on the other side. Twists aid digestion, reduce fatigue, and stimulate the spinal nerves. 6. Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath) A deeply calming breathing technique, Bhramari involves gently closing the eyes, placing the fingers lightly on the face or ears, and humming on each exhalation. It soothes the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, and improves focus. Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu has pioneered the use of Bhramari in desk-friendly and restorative Yoga styles, showing how this ancient technique can be adapted to modern office settings to support emotional regulation and long-term well-being. These simple desk Yoga practices can be done in your work clothes, with no mat required. The key is consistency and intention. Dr. Yogrishi reminds us that our breath is always available and can be used as a powerful tool to transform how we feel, think, and act even in the middle of a busy workday. As more individuals and workplaces begin to embrace wellness, integrating Yogic micro-practices into daily routines offers a sustainable way to boost focus, reduce emotional reactivity, and promote long-term heart health and resilience. 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! Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:07 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness 6 Easy Desk Yoga Poses for Heart Health And Longevity
News18
03-06-2025
- General
- News18
From Stress To Sleep: Discover The Healing Power Of Bhramari Pranayama
Last Updated: Bhramari is a type of pranayama that helps calm the mind and reduce stress. It is safe, easy to practise, and suitable for people of all ages, from children to the elderly In today's fast-paced life, issues like stress, anxiety and insomnia have become common. While many people try different remedies to cope with these problems, certain yogic practices can be far more effective. One such technique is Bhramari Pranayama – a simple and powerful breathing exercise known for its wide range of mental and physical health benefits. What Is Bhramari Pranayama? Bhramari is a type of pranayama that helps calm the mind and reduce stress. It is safe, easy to practise, and suitable for people of all ages, from children to the elderly. Unlike some other breathing techniques, such as Kapalbhati, which should be avoided during certain conditions like high blood pressure, pregnancy, or after surgery, Bhramari has no such restrictions. It can be practised anytime, anywhere, without side effects. Expert Opinion Kavita Arora, co-founder and trainer at Yoga4Life, explains: 'Among the five or six most popular pranayamas, like Kapalbhati and Anulom-Vilom, Bhramari stands out because of its simplicity and safety. Anyone can practise it at any time, and its benefits are countless." Health Benefits of Bhramari According to Kavita Arora, Bhramari is especially helpful in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. 'Research has shown that regular practice boosts positivity, focus and mindfulness," she adds. For those suffering from insomnia, Bhramari can be done while sitting on the bed before sleep. Practising five to eleven rounds helps calm the mind and leads to better sleep. It's as simple as sitting quietly, closing your eyes, covering your ears with your thumbs, and making a gentle 'hmm' sound while breathing out. Bhramari is beneficial not just for those struggling with sleep or stress but also for students and migraine patients. Since it improves focus and mental clarity, it can be a great addition to anyone's daily routine. Whether you're dealing with daily stress, seeking mental peace, or aiming to improve your concentration, Bhramari Pranayama is a safe, effective, and natural practice. Experts recommend incorporating it into your everyday life for lasting benefits. First Published: June 03, 2025, 15:59 IST
Indian Express
31-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Pranayama routines that can help you kick the butt: How to control smoking urges
Written by Vikram Manikya Cigarettes are a gateway drug. Scientists have identified tobacco addiction as the gateway to hard drugs like ganja (cannabis or marijuana) and cocaine. Hence, we cannot take tobacco addiction lightly. The International Journal of Yoga has researched the benefits of practising pranayamas on nicotine craving and withdrawal symptoms and found that pranayamas help reduce both of them. Here are a few effective routines to supplement the journey of de-addiction. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama ⦁ Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, preferably in Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Sukhasana (Easy Pose). ⦁ Relax your shoulders and body. ⦁ Place your left hand on your left knee with fingers in 'Chin Mudra', where you gently touch the thumb and index finger. You bring forward the rest of the three fingers. ⦁ Place the tips of your index and middle fingers at the centre of your eyebrows. ⦁ Place your ring and little fingers on your left nostril. ⦁ Place your thumb on the right nostril. ⦁ The ring and little fingers will be used to open and close the left nostril. ⦁ The thumb will be used to open and close the right nostril. ⦁ Take a normal breath with both nostrils, position your fingers — thumb on the right, index and middle fingers in between your eyebrows, and ring and little fingers on the left. ⦁ Breathe out through the left nostril by closing your right nostril with your thumb. ⦁ Now, breathe in through the left nostril and close it with your ring and little fingers after completing inhalation. ⦁ Remove your thumb to exhale through the right nostril. Keep your left nostril closed with your ring and little fingers. ⦁ Inhale through the right nostril and close it with your thumb after completing inhalation. ⦁ Breathe out through the left nostril by closing your right nostril with your thumb. This marks the completion of one round of 'nadi shodhan pranayama'. ⦁ Continue alternating nostrils, inhaling through one nostril and exhaling through the other. ⦁ After each exhalation, remember to breathe in through the same nostril. ⦁ Complete nine such rounds by breathing through both nostrils alternately. ⦁ Continue taking long and deep normal breaths, effortlessly. Bhastrika Pranayama ⦁ Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, preferably in Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose) or Sukhasana (Easy Pose). ⦁ Relax your shoulders and body. ⦁ Make fists and fold your arms. Place them close to your shoulders Bhastrika Pranayama 1 ⦁ Inhale deeply with both your nostrils. Fill your lungs completely. ⦁ Raise both arms and unfold your fists. ⦁ Exhale forcefully through both nostrils. Empty your lungs completely. Bhastrika Pranayama 2 ⦁ Bring your arms next to your shoulders. ⦁ Close your fists. Settle into the beginning pose. ⦁ Repeat 20 rounds. ⦁ The breathing should be rapid and forceful. ⦁ Relax with palms on your thighs, open towards the ceiling. ⦁ Take a few deep, normal breaths. ⦁ Continue for 2 more rounds. Bhramari Pranayama ⦁ Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, preferably in Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Sukhasana (Easy Pose). ⦁ Close your eyes, and keep a gentle smile on your face. ⦁ Place your index finger on the cartilage between your cheek and ear as depicted in the image below: ⦁ Take a normal, deep breath in, and as you breathe out, gently press the cartilage with your index finger. ⦁ Make a low humming sound like a bee while you press it in and out with your index finger. ⦁ High-pitched humming is always better than low or medium pitch. ⦁ Breathe normally and continue this pattern for 3-4 rounds. (The author is Director, The Art of Living Wellness Programme)
