Category: Health & Wellness

Study: Exercise Boosts Mood, Mental Health With One Key Condition

Staff ReporterHealth, Health & Wellness, Health Science 0

Exercise can significantly boost your mood and mental health if done in the right context, according to a new study.

Exercise is widely acknowledged as beneficial for physical health, but its impact on mental well-being depends heavily on the context in which it is performed. A new study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine reveals that the setting, motivations, and manner of exercise crucially influence its mood-enhancing effects.

While engaging in a standard workout routine, like a game involving pushups or a solo walk, promotes cardiovascular health and physical fitness, the emotional benefits may vary. For example, challenging oneself to complete a deck-of-cards pushup routine presents a physical challenge with a sense of accomplishment. However, the mood-lifting perks can be amplified through social interaction or a change of scenery.

The study emphasizes that the mental benefits of exercise are not just a matter of duration or intensity. Moderate aerobic exercise is known to improve mood for several hours post-workout, as demonstrated in previous research by the University of Vermont. Yet, this current study highlights that factors such as the exercise environment, social setting, and personal significance attributed to the activity play a substantial role in how one feels afterward.

For instance, a fitness regimen shared with others, such as playing “pushup poker” with a companion or exercising in a more engaging location like a beach, turns the experience into a more enjoyable and mood-boosting activity. Similarly, the mood-enhancing effects of a solitary six-mile walk pale in comparison to the camaraderie experienced during a socially interactive activity such as a round of golf with a family member, even if one’s performance in the game is less than stellar.

Researchers argue that tailoring the context of physical activity to an individual’s preferences and social inclinations can significantly amplify its benefits for mental health. Whether it is lifting weights alone versus in a supportive group, or choosing to exercise outdoors instead of indoors, the psychological gains are contingent upon these experiential facets. Furthermore, the intrinsic motivation behind exercising—whether for health, longevity, or personal satisfactions like improved cognitive skills—further enhances the well-being effects.

In conclusion, while traditional measures of exercise’s benefits focus on frequency, duration, and intensity, these should now be accompanied by thoughtful consideration of the situational aspects encircling the workout. By optimizing these factors, individuals are more likely to gain greater mental health advantages alongside the physical ones.

According to the researchers involved in the study, approaching exercise with an awareness of these contextual factors can lead to more fulfilling and mentally rewarding experiences. As they point out, the right context that aligns with personal values and social preferences is key to unlocking the full mood-boosting potential of physical activity.

Source: Original article

Psychiatrist Explains Marijuana’s Impact on Developing Brain

Staff ReporterHealth & Wellness, Medicine 0

The increasing prevalence of marijuana use, especially among young people, has raised concerns about its potential negative effects on brain development and overall health.

The recreational use of marijuana has become more common in recent years, but research indicates that consuming cannabis could have detrimental effects on the body, particularly the brain. Studies have drawn connections between cannabis usage and increased risks of several health issues. A recent French study suggested that cannabis use heightens the risk of heart attack and stroke more than cocaine does, while a Canadian study identified a link between cannabis-related hospital visits and dementia risk in older individuals.

Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist and brain imaging specialist and the founder of Amen Clinics in California, spoke with Fox News Digital, explaining that decades of brain imaging data reveal people using marijuana show lower blood flow in their brains. This finding is supported by other research associating marijuana use with heart disease. Despite perceptions of marijuana as a benign substance or a beneficial medicinal product, Dr. Amen pointed out that, while it can be helpful for some people, usage among teenagers and young adults is associated with higher incidents of anxiety, depression, suicide, and psychosis.

A particular study comparing cigarette smokers and marijuana smokers indicated that marijuana users suffered more lung damage, according to Dr. Amen. This adds to the growing body of evidence that marijuana may not be as harmless as sometimes portrayed. One alarming trend Dr. Amen noted is the increasing number of parents who use marijuana with their teens and young adults, which he views as a concerning shift in societal norms.

Contrary to some opinions that alcohol may be more harmful than marijuana, Dr. Amen emphasized that neither substance is beneficial. He questioned the rationale behind consuming substances that accelerate brain aging, especially when the brain is not fully developed until the mid-20s.

Young adults engaging in cannabis use face the risk of hindering their mental development, potentially leading to anxiety and depression. Dr. Amen warned that early usage of substances like marijuana and alcohol can arrest brain development. Many young individuals remain unaware of the importance of their brain’s development at ages 17, 18, 21, or even 23, he added, emphasizing that harming it early may mean it might not fully recover.

According to Dr. Amen and other research, the impacts of marijuana on the developing brain and health should not be underestimated, urging a cautious approach to its use, especially among younger individuals.

Source: Original article

Veggie Fest 2025: Tim Fior Discusses Brain Boost from Plant Diet

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Health & Wellness 0

Dr. Timothy Fior discusses the impact of lifestyle changes, including a plant-based diet, on brain health at the 15th annual Veggie Fest 2025.

As we gather once more for the anticipated Veggie Fest 2025, attendees and speakers alike are focusing on the pressing issue of brain health. Dr. Timothy Fior, the founder of the Center for Integral Health and a seasoned speaker at the festival, is set to share essential insights on how lifestyle modifications can enhance cognitive functions.

Dr. Fior’s presentation, titled “Brain Boost,” highlights the increasing concern over brain health as the population ages. He notes a significant rise in cognitive impairments like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, juxtaposed against declining rates of other diseases such as heart disease and cancer. According to Fior, cognitive impairment is one of the few disorders with a rising prevalence, a trend he aims to address through preventative measures.

One of the notable points in Dr. Fior’s talk is a groundbreaking study by Dr. Dean Ornish, released at the end of last year. The study examined the effects of comprehensive lifestyle changes on a group of 24 individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s and compared them to a control group of 25 people. The experimental group followed a regime that included a whole-food, plant-based diet, select supplements, regular meditation, and exercise. Those who adhered closely to this regimen showed improvements, marking a first in the field of Alzheimer’s research according to Dr. Fior.

Interventions such as these align perfectly with the ethos of Veggie Fest, where plant-based and compassionate diets are at the forefront. As Dr. Fior points out, the correlation between lifestyle modifications and improved brain health is compelling and offers a proactive approach to combating cognitive decline.

The urgency of this issue is underscored by the prediction that by 2030, the cost of caring for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s could soar to approximately one trillion dollars annually. Hence, Dr. Fior emphasizes the importance of early intervention as a strategic measure against these diseases.

At Veggie Fest, attendees have the opportunity to learn not only from Dr. Fior but also from a myriad of other speakers advocating for vegetarian and vegan diets and the lifestyle changes that support overall health. The festival, scheduled for August 9 and 10, promises to be an inspiring event, rich with actionable insights and diverse food samples that promote brain health.

For those invested in understanding and applying these lifestyle changes, the sessions at Veggie Fest 2025 serve as a valuable resource, offering a wealth of information and practical advice from experts like Dr. Fior.

Source: Original article

Dermatologist Behind Hailey Bieber’s Popular Rhode Skincare Line

Staff ReporterHealth, Health & Wellness, Medicine 0

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a celebrated New York dermatologist, is revolutionizing skincare affordability with innovative ventures like Skin Medicinals, which has saved patients $200 million on prescription costs.

Physicians are traditionally seen as problem solvers, a role that encompasses examining patients, identifying issues, and devising effective solutions. However, for Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, this perspective only scratches the surface. Based in New York, Bhanusali is not just a dermatologist but also the entrepreneurial force behind Hudson Dermatology and Laser. His client roster includes the likes of Martha Stewart and Hailey Bieber, the latter of whom he assisted in formulating her groundbreaking skincare line. This blend of medicine and entrepreneurship has earned him the title of a “doctorpreneur.”

Adding another feather to his cap, Dr. Bhanusali recently celebrated a significant achievement. His company, Skin Medicinals, founded in 2018, announced it has saved patients a combined total of $200 million on prescription drug costs.

“What started as a small idea to improve access for patients has turned into a unifying movement across our field, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come next,” Bhanusali shared in a statement to Entrepreneur.

Skin Medicinals emerged from Bhanusali and his colleagues’ observation of a “drastic increase in pricing of medications.” The healthcare tech company functions as a bridge between patients and doctors, enabling physicians to tailor-make compound medicines and deliver them directly to patients.

Bhanusali’s business philosophy is anchored in a “doctor-first” approach. He believes that many technologists falter in healthcare because they fail to consider challenges through a “physician’s lens.” His central focus remains on patients’ needs: “What would our patients want?” he explained.

This patient-centric mindset also landed him a role collaborating with Hailey Bieber on Rhode, a skincare line launched earlier this year that boasts affordable prices ranging from $16 to $29. The line comprises non-comedogenic ingredients suitable for all skin types.

“The idea was let’s create formulas that are simple,” Bhanusali said. “We’re not trying to make outrageous claims, we have very good, clean, efficacious formulas that work for all skin types.”

During his research for Rhode, Bhanusali noticed skincare trends were leaning towards harsh acids and heavy marketing. His goal became refining products to ensure they served as effective complements to existing skincare routines.

Apart from Rhode, Bhanusali played a pivotal role in the formulation of Amazon’s first private-label skincare brand, Fast Beauty Co., which was pioneering as a digital-first skincare brand without physical product testing. This venture underlined Bhanusali’s versatility as an entrepreneur. “Being an entrepreneur is like using the other side of my brain,” he noted.

Furthermore, Bhanusali is teaming up with his friend and patient, Martha Stewart, for an upcoming project, which rumors suggest could be around face or body care products.

He attributes much of his entrepreneurial insight to Stewart. “Working with Martha has truly been a privilege,” he said. “She is one of the most fascinating people on Earth, and I’ve learned a ton from her.”

In addition to these cosmetic achievements, Bhanusali has also contributed to the creation of Ephemeral, a fleeting tattoo company offering inks that fade within a year, reducing the permanence traditionally associated with tattoos.

Despite his diverse range of projects, Bhanusali remains grounded by finding ways to give back. In 2020, he was honored by the American Academy of Dermatology as a Patient Care Hero for his life-changing scar treatment of a young dog bite victim, a story that went viral.

Bhanusali’s professional success is also mirrored on social media, where he boasts significant followings with 171,000 on TikTok and 138,000 on Instagram. His office currently has a one-year waiting list for new patients, a testament to his popularity and expertise.

“I love educating through the medium,” Bhanusali said about his social media engagement. “Typically, I’ll spend a couple of hours creating content and then post it over the next few weeks.”

However, Bhanusali emphasizes the importance of balance, noting that the entrepreneurial mindset is a constant presence. “To be a great entrepreneur, you need to have that balance,” he said, adding that his “North Star” is his family.

In his practice, Bhanusali maintains a “family style” atmosphere, engaging with patients as if they were family. “It’s just like, you know, it’s the coolest job on Earth,” he said, conveying his enthusiasm for his life’s work.

Source: Original article

Happiness Researcher’s 90-Second Rule for a Fulfilled Life

Staff ReporterHealth, Health & Wellness, Health/Education 0

Mo Gawdat’s 90-second rule offers a quick, effective way to manage emotions and achieve a more fulfilled life.

Mo Gawdat, a former chief business officer at Google X, turned personal tragedy into a lifelong mission to understand and promote happiness. After the death of his 21-year-old son, Ali, in 2014 due to medical negligence during an appendix surgery, Gawdat delved into the science of happiness, exploring it from logical and philosophical angles with the aid of flow charts and formulas.

Gawdat, who has spent over two decades researching happiness, shared a technique known as the 90-second rule during a conversation on the “High Performance” podcast. The rule suggests that when faced with anger or stress, an individual should allow themselves 90 seconds to feel the emotion before redirecting focus to other thoughts.

This habit is based on insights from Harvard-trained neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor, who discovered that stress and anger hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, can be fully processed by the body within 90 seconds. After this period, any continued agitation typically results from mentally rehashing the scenario, thereby triggering another hormonal response. Gawdat emphasizes that this moment offers an opportunity to decide how to proceed with a clearer mind.

For instance, being cut off while driving might lead to an initial burst of anger, but stewing over the event doesn’t change its outcome. Instead, Gawdat suggests choosing a positive action, like taking a deep breath or listening to a favorite song, to shift focus away from the negative experience.

Gawdat further employs a series of introspective questions when dealing with life’s challenges: Is it true? Can I do something about it? Can I accept it and move forward despite its presence? These questions help discern whether a troubling thought is based in reality, and whether taking action is possible. Should acceptance be the only viable route, Gawdat advocates for “committed acceptance,” or acknowledging the situation as the new reality.

The process of adopting new habits, especially during emotional times, can be challenging. A 2009 study by psychology researcher Phillippa Lally indicates that it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to form a new habit, depending on individual circumstances. However, Gawdat believes awareness of personal responses to difficult situations is a crucial first step toward lasting happiness.

Gawdat shared his insights on Simon Sinek’s “A Bit of Optimism” podcast, remarking that life presents both good and bad circumstances indiscriminately, leaving individuals to choose their reactions. According to Gawdat, setting realistic expectations and making conscious choices about how to respond to life’s challenges can significantly impact one’s level of happiness and fulfillment.

Empowering Vision: Global Advances In Eye Care

Ajay GhoshHealth, Health & Wellness 0
Dr. V K Raju calls for our immediate and sustainable action, giving hope for tomorrow, a world without childhood blindness 
“Childhood blindness is a tragedy, but we can prevent it. Today, we make a new beginning in our concerted efforts to prevent and eradicate childhood blindness with the resources and the modern technology that are available today,” said Dr. Vadrevu K. Raju, a world-renowned ophthalmologist, philanthropist, and the founder of the Eye Foundation of America (EFA) said here during a Scientific Convention and Fund Raiser being organized at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on January 31, 2025.
Empowering Vision Global Advances In Eye Care

“Over 1.4 million children are found to be blind, and millions more suffer from visual impairments that can be treated and prevented if done in a timely manner. This is not merely a medical issue. It’s a humanitarian crisis that demands our immediate and sustained action, and that is why we are all here today, in our efforts to giving hope for tomorrow, a world without childhood blindness,” DR. Raju added.

Dr. Leela Raju, an Organizing Chair of the event, delivered the welcome address. The chief guest at the event was Dr Radhika Tandon, Chairperson of RP Cender, who delivered the keynote address. Richa Jain Kallra, a TV News Anchor & Host eloquently emceed the event.Empowering Vision Global Advances In Eye Care Speakers

In her welcome address, Dr. Leela Raju stressed the importance of ensuring that more people know about the causes and the means to reduce childhood blindness and eradicate it. Dr. Leela Raju stated that the discussions today would focus on “not just glaucoma, but cornea and pediatric ophthalmology. And of course, regarding retinopathy and prematurity, which is our real push in both Delhi and around India to reduce the burden of childhood blindness.”

Dr. Radhika Tandon, a global thought leader, who continues to inspire innovation and excellence in ophthalmology, shaping the future of visual care with her dedication and brilliance, in her keynote address, said, “A very, very big word of appreciation for the eye Foundation of America, as well as the Gautami Eye Institute, for taking this initiative, of getting people together on this platform, and also for envisioning a world, where two countries across great continents and opposite sides of the globe can work together, to make a difference.”

She drew parallels between the  clinical practices in the American clinical space, and in India, “where we have cutting edge technology and excellent surgical skills and a huge volume of patients, the combination of the thought processes and the energy that we have together can make a huge difference.”

Dr. Tandon, while referring to the noble mission and the new initiatives by the Eye Foundation, starting today, said, “We hope, soon we will be able to have a very wonderful celebration with some very tangible goals, along with the broader goals. In the end, we want to see how much did we achieve. So, keep some small baby step goals as well. So you can say yes, we achieved this.”

Dr. Thomas Johnson, a Specialist in Neuroscience  at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, said, “It’s “It’s my first time to India, and it’s been a while that I’ve been wanting to come here and engage more with the ophthalmology community of India. I think in many ways, what you have done here in your country is a real beacon for advancing eye care that is applicable all over the world. I know the work that you have done with vision camps and screening for preventable blindness and finding innovative ways to deliver care to people that don’t always have the resources to seek out themselves, is really inspiring and something that every country about the world should take note of and try to.”

Dr. Charles Cole, a dedicated educator, who is leading surgical training at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, who flew in to Delhi especially for today’s event, said, “Well, first and foremost, I wanted to thank the planning committee for this wonderful invitation to come and speak. It’s a great honor to be able to speak to such esteemed colleagues. And my first trip to India. So I’m very excited. I’m hoping this will be just the beginning. And I’m looking forward to sharing my thoughts on microdata platforms.”

Dr Karan Bhatia, Vice President of Young Ophthalmologist Society of India (YOSI) delivered an address, introducing YOSI to the audience. The team, Young Ophthalmologist Society of India (YOSI) consists of Doctors Diva Kant Misra, President; Sonal Kalia, IPP; Digvijay Singh, past President: Karan Bhatia, Vice President; Dr Nilesh Kumar, Secretary; Aditya Sethi, Treasurer; and, Prasanna Ramesh, Joint Secretary.

Empowering Vision Global Advances In Eye Care Felicitations

A day long workshop on Empowering Vision Global Advances In Eye Care was organized jointly by the Young Ophthalmologist Society of India, Gautami Eye Institute, Eye Foundation of America, and The Rotary RI 3011, and was attended by Faculty from prestigious Eye Hospitals and Educational Institutes from around the nation. The event was inaugurated by the esteemed guests by lighting of the traditional lamp.

The scientific session in the morning focused on glaucoma care, navigating challenges and embracing innovations, which was chaired by Dr. Charles Cole and Dr. Thomas B Johnson, who have come from the United States to be part of this event. And the panelists were Dr. J S Bhalla, Dr. Vineet Sehgal, Dr. Devi Tuli, and Dr. Shika Gupta. The highly informative session was moderated by Dr. Mainak Bhattacharya. The topics discussed were on key challenges in Glaucoma Management in Indian scenario by Dr Kirti Singh, while Dr. Thomas Johnson spoke about Advances in Glaucoma Diagnostics, and Dr. Charles Cole addressed the audience on Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Therapies.

The session on ROP Insights: A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Screening, Treatment and Prevention was chaired by Dr. V. K. Raju and Dr Parijal Chandra, Panelists were Dr. Sanjay Mishra, Dr Priyank Garg, Dr. Aparna Gupta, and Dr Rekha Adlakha. The session was moderated by Dr. Vaibhav Sethi. Dr Harshal Sahare led an insightful session on ROP Screening and Diagnostics. Treatment Options for ROP was the topic discussed by Dr. Priyank Garg; and, ROP Prevention Strategies was the topic discussed by Dr Ritu Singh.

An insightful session on Corneal Health in India was chaired by Dr. Radhika Tandon, Dr. Namrata Sharma and Dr V K Raju. And the panelists were Dr. Uma Sridhar, Dr Alka Gupta, and Dr. Anu Malik. The session was moderated by Dr. Karan Bhatia. Dr Prafulla Maharana presented his talk on Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: An Overview in the Indian Context. Dr Gunjan, Budhiraja spoke about Corneal Injuries and Infections in Children – Key Challenges in Treatment and Prevention.  Dr. Rajesh Sinha spoke about The State of Corneal Transplantation in India, and the key Challenges.

The post lunch session was on YOSI Sightliness – Recent Innovations, Future Directions and Interesting Cases in Ophthalmology. Dr Lalit Verma, Dr Thomas Johnson and Dr Charles Cole were the chairpersons for the session. Dr. Leela Raju, Dr Sarita Agarwal and Dr. Sahil Agarwal were the panelists, and the sessions were moderated by Dr. Karan Bhatia and Dr Aditya Sethi.

Dr Prasanth Gireesh presented An Overview of Virtual Reality, AI, 3D Printing and Mobile Solutions for. A New Era of Screening and Diagnostics. Dr. Aditi Gosh spoke about Stem Cell Therapy In Eye Care. Dr. Navjot Kaur presented a case study on Epithelial Ingrowth Post SMILE. Another case study was presented on MMC Toxicity, Post Bleb Kneading With Remarkable Recovery was presented by Dr Mehak Gupta.

A case study on Minimally Invasive Needle Drainage For Serous Choroidal Effusion In Retinal Detachment was presented by Dr Aman Khanna. The final case study on Onlooking Closely was presented by Dr Tanya Jain.

The final session on Comprehensive Perspectives In Pediatrics Ophthalmology was chaired by Dr Rohit Saxena, Dr Suma Ganesh, and the panelists were Dr. Sumit Monga, Dr. Adiya Sethi, Dr.. Nupur Goel, and Dr. Arshi Singh were panelists, while Dr/ Digvijay Singh moderated the session.

Dr. V K Raju says, “Together, Let Us Illuminate Young Lives and Create A World Without Childhood Blindness. Your Support Can: Change Lives, Restore Vision, And Empower Futures. Now, Let’s All Join the Movement; Be Part of Something Extraordinary.” For more information, please contact: info@eyefoundationofamerica.org

During Press Conference In New York, AAPI Presents on Ways to Leverage Resources And Skills To Support Healthcare Initiatives In India And USA

Ajay GhoshHealth & Wellness 0

During a historic Press Conference with nearly two dozen media persons from the electronic, print and visual media in attendance at the Indian Consulate in New York on a rainy Sunday evening, September 29, 2024 Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) shared about his vision for AAPI under his leadership and about AAPI’s contributions to India and the United states during the past 43 years.

Dr. Kathula urged the media to be the link and a channel between AAPI and the larger community in sharing AAPI’s message and about the noble initiatives that benefit the Indian American community and the people back home in India. Expressing his gratitude to the media persons for their presence today and for the support they have provided over the past several decades to AAPI, Dr. Kathula urged their ongoing support “to help to get the message out, in reaching out to the general public here, the Indian diaspora and in India, especially for providing health education on preventive measures.

AAPI Collage 2Dr. Kathula along with Dr. Hetal Gor, a member of the AAPI Board of Trustees, briefed the media on AAPI’s ongoing activities in the United States and India, and highlighted the upcoming Global Health Summit in New Delhi, scheduled for October 19th to 20th.  This summit aims to bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to address the prevention of cancer and heart attacks in the Indian population with lifestyle modification and technology.

Dr. Kathula invited all the AAPI members to attend the next edition of AAPI’s annual Global Health Summit this October in New Delhi, with a focus on preventing cancer and heart attacks through lifestyle changes and technological advancements. AAPI has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of India Honorable Droupadi Murmu to be the Honored Guests at GHS 2024 and to address the hundreds of AAPI delegates at the Summit. Hon. Health Minister J.P. Nadda has been invited and he has agreed to meet with AAPI delegates to formally to discuss the healthcare issues especially the prevention aspect of cancer and Heart attacks in India.

AAPI is planning to organize bone marrow drives across the nation, as the donor pool among South Asians is very limited, Dr. Kathula said. “So, we are trying to recruit potential donors in the stem cell or bone marrow transplant donations. Because people are getting affected by lymphomas and leukemias, and they need transplant. Since they do not get the matched donors in this country, we are trying to increase that pool,” he added.

As the President of AAPI, the largest ethnic medical organization, representing the interests of over 120,000 physicians of Indian origin, Dr. Kathula said, AAPI is also launching a program called “Million Miles of Gratitude,” to honor veterans by promoting physical activity, he said. Participants can log their walking or running miles, with each mile serving as a tribute to the veterans. The goal is to collectively reach a million miles in the coming year.

According to Dr. Kathula, AAPI is planning to introduce heart screenings for the Indian American community, as they are at higher risk of experiencing heart attacks at a younger age, and that this initiative will focus on prevention and early detection.

AAPI Collage 3Earlier during the day, AAPI organized AAPI Leadership Retreat at the Indian Consulate in New York City and was graced by the presence of Hon. Consul General Binay Pradhan. The panel included several distinguished figures from various fields, including Dr. Sanjeev Kaul, Chief of Trauma; Sudeep Kapur, a magistrate; Manee Kamboji, owner of a highly successful IT company; Natalie McKenzie, a health and fitness coach and podcaster; Jyoti Soni, a catering and wedding planner with over three decades of experience in the culinary industry; and Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of AAPI. The session was expertly moderated by Dr. Hetal Gor.

Consul General, Honorable Binay Pradhan, in his address highlighted his long association with AAPI from his past interactions with AAPI members. Highlighting the recent meetings India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with top CEOs from the United States during his recent visit,  Pradhan emphasized that India’s potential is “not only appreciated by the ordinary people of the United States, but even by the industry, and that’s probably the reason why all these industry entities are now present in India in a much bigger way. So it’s going to be leading to bigger investment back within India.”

Pradhan lauded the contributions of “a strong Indian Association of Doctors, AAPI.  We feel so lucky that we have their strong presence, of this fraternity in this country. And I’m sure, going forward, you are going to be an anchor. You will be bringing the relationship between India and the United States much closer, especially in the healthcare sector.”

Pradhan told AAPI that “My expectation, my request has been that, this is the time for you to rethink about how you contribute back home in India. I know all of you, individually and collectively, do a lot of good work back home in India. The economy of India is undergoing a massive transformation today. The Indian people are not looking for help in meeting their basic needs, but would expect a strong Association like yours to help them to touch their aspirations. You have access to the best of the medical technologies in this country. You can think about what you can do to touch the aspirations of the people, by using the technology, and reach a much larger number of people in India.”

AAPI is a forum to facilitate and enable Indian American Physicians to excel in patient care, teaching and research, and to pursue their aspirations in professional and community affairs. For more information on AAPI and its many programs, please visit: www.aapiusa.org

Enhance Mental Resilience and Revitalize Metabolism with a 30-Minute Weight-Free Walking Routine

Staff ReporterHealth & Wellness, Lifestyle, News 0

In a bid to cultivate mental fortitude and invigorate metabolic activity, a 30-minute walking workout devoid of weights emerges as a versatile regimen accessible to all, irrespective of location or fitness level.

Collaborating with outdoor footwear giant Merrell, Goop introduces a mindful walking meditation aimed at fostering an enhanced connection with nature while promoting mindfulness. The session, spearheaded by Mel Mah, serves as a guided practice tailored for outdoor environments, be it a hike, beach stroll, park visit, or even a simple backyard excursion. “Developing a deep connection with nature is a matter of getting out in it,” underscores the team. With just half an hour dedicated to this endeavor, participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in the present moment.

For those venturing into public spaces, outfitting with premium workout headphones ensures privacy during this introspective journey. Time spent amidst nature yields multifaceted benefits, ranging from improved sleep and stress reduction to lowered heart rates. Furthermore, research suggests that exposure to outdoor settings, particularly natural landscapes, fosters heightened creativity.

Mah emphasizes the significance of connection in facilitating a deceleration of pace. “Let’s begin by slowing down the mind and body,” she suggests. Commencing with a series of preparatory steps involving closing one’s eyes, elongating the spine, and tuning into bodily sensations through mindful breathing sets the tone for the session.

A notable aspect of Mah’s approach is the delayed introduction of walking, accommodating individuals not solely focused on physical exertion. To fully leverage the 30-minute walking workout, initiating the walk prior to commencing the session is advised.

The Physical and Mental Perks of Outdoor Walking

From a physical standpoint, brisk walking proves instrumental in sustaining a robust metabolism, curbing sedentary behavior, and contributing to Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT), which encompasses calorie expenditure beyond formal workouts. While the session is framed as a walking meditation, it can seamlessly transition into a workout by incorporating light handheld weights, ankle or wrist weights, amplifying pace, or tackling undulating terrains to elevate heart rate, introduce resistance, and intensify muscle engagement.

However, weighted accessories are not indispensable for reaping rewards. Mental resilience can be honed concurrently with physical conditioning, utilizing body weight to fortify muscles, joints, bones, and ligaments. Moreover, the session underscores a strong emphasis on mindfulness, allowing for moments of silence for personal exploration or heightened intensity if desired.

It is noteworthy that any form of exercise, including walking, contributes positively to overall well-being, with a daily target of 7,000 steps recommended. Individuals pursuing weight loss objectives may find the session’s intensity insufficient and may opt for alternative routines geared towards this goal.

In addition to uplifting mood and mindfulness, walking fosters strength in lower body musculature and vital joints such as hips, knees, and ankles, crucial for preserving muscle mass and bone density with advancing age. This aligns with osteogenic loading, a process wherein bones undergo stimulation for growth and reinforcement.

During the walking session, participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in their surroundings, keenly observing scents, sounds, and tactile sensations. Conscious engagement with foot movements and rhythmic breathing serves to tether the mind to the present, fostering a deeper connection with the sensory experience.

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