Mickey Mehta's Blog

Sleep Paralysis

MickeyMehta — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 04:30:12 +0000

Weekends are like mini vacations. You relax, spend quality time with your family, go out to eat, watch a movie, catch-up with friends etc. This weekend, I met a friend after months and we started chatting. During the course of the conversation, he confessed to me about a few weird incidents. He said that he had visions of aliens abducting him and demons sitting on his chest and performing some kind of satanic rituals. He was very disturbed, but calmed down when I told him that there was no need to worry. He was neither being abducted nor a victim of any demon. He was suffering from a normal condition called as sleep paralysis.

The sub conscious mind is one mystery, which science has not been able to solve. It plays tricks on you, especially while you dream. Sleep paralysis is a condition where people are paralyzed during early stages of their sleep or on waking up from their sleep. In such conditions, people are mentally awake, but physically asleep. Simply put, it is a condition, in which people have nightmares with their eyes open, thus they think that the illusions are real. If you are also visualizing your nightmares in a similar way, there is no need to panic. When we are asleep, the brain’s signals to the muscles are blocked to prevent us from acting out our dream.

Suffocation and hallucinations are some common symptoms of sleep paralysis. When the body is asleep, the respiratory muscles continue with their functions, but under this condition, those muscles are also sleeping thus causing suffocation. Hallucinations are also common, as the nightmare stays with the dreamer when his eyes open. In some cases, people complain about going insane because of such a condition.

Stress, irregular sleep patterns and excessive alcohol, are the factors responsible for sleep paralysis. It is also common with people suffering from jet lag and medical conditions. To overcome such a condition, focus on moving your body parts. Even moving a finger can awaken you from sleep paralysis. Controlled breathing can also relax you in such a situation. Exercising, eating healthy food and sleeping in regular patterns can help you prevent and overcome sleep paralysis.

Teach For India- Building A New India

MickeyMehta — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 04:30:03 +0000

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world- Nelson Mandela

These words are irrefutable indeed because, if you want to change the way your country functions, educate the younger generation of your country. Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to bring about the much needed change as its presence not only signifies development, but also the absence of ignorance, poverty and illiteracy. Teach For India, a non-profit organization is an initiative by Shaheen Mistri believes in this ideology. Hence, since its origination in 2008 it has solely dedicated itself by bringing about a change in the country by educating the younger generation of the country.

Teach For India as a movement started when the founder Shaheen Mistri, also the founder of Akanksha, a non-profit organisation realised some solution had to be found to revive the failing education system of the country. The youth of the country is the most energetic and capable force of a nation. Hence, Teach For India devised a plan, which engages the youth of the country to bring about a change in the nation. Over the 5 years, this organization has gained popularity and from a 2 city venture, it has grown to 5 cities with a volunteer bank of more than 550 youngsters. This nationwide movement is a project under Teach to Lead, which involves young professional and college graduates who selflessly dedicate 2 years of their life and work together to eradicate the inequity in the education system of the country.

My friends, happiness lies in giving and not keeping everything you have earned to yourself. Teaching and imparting knowledge to others is the best way you can make use of education. If you want to build a new country, don’t wait for others to initiate that change, do it yourself. I urge all young professionals and young students of our country to volunteer for this noble cause, which is to make India a better place to live in.

World Haemophilia Day – Show Your Solidarity

MickeyMehta — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:54:26 +0000

Hello! Wish for a pleasant and happy day ahead for all my friends across the world. Showing gratitude and appreciation to my loved ones, is how I begin my day and encourage all of you to do the same. Today, the 17^th of April is just another day of the week for most of us. However, this day does hold great significance, as it is observed as the World Haemophilia Day. Haemophilia, also known as hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder, which stops the blood from clotting in a proper manner. The World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) has been observing this day, since the year 1989, in honour of the birth anniversary of its founder Frank Schnabel.

A day dedicated to spread awareness about the various bleeding disorders and improving the lives of the patients, is necessary as around 75 per cent of the people suffering from these disorders often receive no treatment or inadequate treatment. Haemophilia is primarily caused only in males, being inherited by sons, by their infected fathers. Its symptoms may vary from bleeding in joints, resulting in immense pain to blood filled swellings in the interior of the skin. The clotting factor, which is a protein that controls bleeding in our blood, is not present in haemophiliacs. The graveness of this disorder depends on the quantity of the missing clotting factor.

The problem arises, when uncontrolled bleeding begins due to an injury, which might cause stiffness, severe joint damage and sometimes even death. The efforts undertaken by WFH have shown remarkable improvements, with the availability of treatments and facilities being made easy for all patients. The fact that this disorder is not very publicised, increases the delay in its diagnosis. We could do our bit for the patients, by getting in touch with some NGOs and donating some amount for the treatments they undergo. Simply showing solidarity towards the affected people will also suffice, after all, we have to help one another in times of distress.

Make God Your Best Friend

MickeyMehta — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 04:30:26 +0000

When it comes to experiencing the divinity of God, people either end up chanting some mantras from their spiritual books or pack their things and go on a pilgrimage. Although, being religious and practicing the same cannot be termed as bad or unethical, you really don’t need to invest loads of time and money to please God. To communicate with God, all you need to do is be yourself, relax and open your heart to talk.

By saying talk to God, some may think, that I’m still rejoicing on the fact that it is April and some may even go to an extent to think that I am insane. However, the truth is that God does talk to the common man, like us. The only difference is that while the Almighty is able to understand our communication, we are unable to reciprocate and appreciate the same. There exists a continuous debate as to whether God exists or not and some even go to the extent of claiming themselves as one. Many believe that God communicates with only priests and patrons or to those who are blessed with divine interpretation. However, God communicates with each one of us. It is we, who fail to understand his influence on our lives.

Talk to God as you may talk to your close friend. As he knows your true self, you can avoid the embarrassing feeling of being judged. Lose all your inhibitions and pour your heart out, it can be in the form of mental expression, thoughts or even words. As God is omnipresent, you don’t even need to visit a holy shrine to talk to him. Just look at the stars, go to a beach or just lie down on your bed and communicate. Remember, thoughts are also welcome. So, never feel embarrassed. Scientifically, this is a good way of de-stressing because when you truly communicate, you hold no barriers and the emotions flow down making one feel calm and relaxed. Ideally, it is always better to go to a safe, less crowded place that is surrounded by greenery as it has the maximum effect on the mind. So, keep talking and keep believing because faith is what keeps the world going.

Pets – Mood Boosters

MickeyMehta — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 07:48:18 +0000

Good morning friends! I wish for a pleasant and enjoyable week ahead for everyone. While going home after my morning walk today, I met a friend on the way. He seemed gloomy, the reason being the ill health of his dog. I assured him his dog will get well soon, and that he should stay positive. This got me thinking about how quickly we get attached to our pets, be it dogs, cats or fishes. They become our support system in no time, teaching us how to tackle life’s petty problems. I feel, having pets is one of the keys to consistent happiness, as some of the following benefits also prove the same:

Having a pet will keep you on your toes, literally. Taking your dog or cat for a walk, or simply running around them playfully in the house will get you enough exercise for the day, without having to spend hours at the gym.

You will have a companion, who is always there for you. There will be no room for loneliness in your life. Nothing will uplift your mood more than the smiling face of your pet when you get home after a hard day’s work.

Additionally, having pets is also a great way to meet new people. Be it taking them for a walk, to the vet or pet stores, you are more likely to meet like minded people when out with your pet.

The sensory relief one experiences after petting your dog or cat is immensely stress relieving. You can talk about your day, how your boss gave you a tough time to your pet, and feel relaxed before going off to sleep.

After a point of time, you will realize your pet has helped you find meaning to life. The ease with which they forgive and forget, and manage to go on with their lives without holding grudges is something we all should learn.

Pets are a great mood booster. They will make you feel important and deserving through their innocent and playful behaviour. All you need to do is take care of them, and be there for them just as they are always there for you.

Anti Gravity Yoga

MickeyMehta — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 04:30:01 +0000

People often complain that their exercise routine is getting monotonous. They say, that the initial excitement dies down and there is nothing new to keep them interested. People want variety, whether they are sweating it out in the gymnasium or performing yoga asanas. Anti gravity yoga is an ideal form of exercise for people belonging to the above mentioned category.

In the fitness world, new terms are coined everyday and suspension fitness is one of them. Anti Gravity Yoga falls under suspension fitness training. You may have got an idea as to what this new fad called as Anti Gravity Yoga is, because of the words like suspension, gravity, fitness, exercise etc. If you haven’t decoded it yet, anti gravity yoga is a combination of various types of exercises like Traditional Yoga, Pilates, Dance and Calisthenics. It involves performing exercises, while being suspended in the air with the help of a hammock.

This unique technique was developed by Christopher Harrison. He has used his vast experience as a dancer and a gymnast, to formulate this form of exercise. This type of an exercise allows you to stretch and strengthen your body without over-exerting the joints or compressing your vertebrae. This technique emphasizes on learning new skills, while experiencing a full body work out. Initially, this regimen was created for athletes and gymnasts but later, it was modified to suit every body type.

Height Is Might

MickeyMehta — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 06:42:56 +0000

Character is what you are and reputation is what others think you are. Today’s world functions materialistically. Character needs to be backed up by reputation, in order to be successful. Everyone wants to be tall and have a good height, which enhances their personality. Genetics determine the height of a person. Your parents’ genes are instrumental in determining your height. Everyone is born with a specific genetic code. Science has reached a level, where it can alter that code a bit. With the help of right kind of exercises and a balanced diet, your height can be increased.

Nowadays, children have studies, extra classes, tuitions, homework etc. When they are not involved in studies, they end up watching television or playing on their computers or mobile phones. They are taken to malls for recreation instead of a playground. There is very little physical activity in their entire schedule.

Few basic exercises will help children gain height. Skipping and hopping is one of the simplest forms of exercise. The exercise involves hopping on one leg at a time for eight times with hands pointed upwards. This activity is good for the brain as well as the legs. It generates growth hormones. Performing the Indian Dandwat is also suggested as it opens up the spine and strengthens the shoulders and the chest. It also increases blood circulation. Hanging from the rod is one of the oldest exercises known to increase height. The position while hanging is very important. The toes should be pointing towards the ground and the chin should up. The stomach and the buttocks shouldn’t be kept loose.

A balanced diet is very necessary for overall development of the body. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A help to increase height. Proteins are considered as the building blocks of the body, so food rich in protein helps in overall development of the body. Starches, grains and dairy based food items should be included in your diet, if you are looking to increase your height.

5 Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Reduce Hypertension

MickeyMehta — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 04:30:37 +0000

Unhealthy food habits, lack of physical exercise, the competitive environment and prolonged stress has lead to the rise of various health issues which were not heard of a few decades ago. From children to adults, almost everyone is affected with some kind of stroke or heart problem and the main reason which causes this, is hypertension. Below are the five lifestyle changes that would help reduce blood pressure and foster good health.

Healthy Diet-

People often invest in fancy health drinks and advanced fitness equipments. However, they fail to understand and appreciate the need of a healthy diet. A healthy diet should comprise of rich fruits, green veggies, whole grains, nuts beans, low fat meat, fish, poultry and low fat dairy products. Too much of indulgence in processed food, red meat, deep fried food and sugar-sweetened food and beverages should be avoided.

Cut Down On Your Sodium Intake-

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, one should reduce the intake of sodium. Most people intake large quantities of salt, more than the requirement amount. It may be in the form of chips or processed frozen food. A small reduction in the consumption of salt can lower the rise of blood pressure by 2 to 8 mm/ Hg.

Exercise-

Exercise is necessary to prevent heart related problems and people with high BP should actively participate in physical activities, as it helps maintain the health of the arteries, ensuring proper flow of blood. Brisk walking five days a week for 30 minutes and taking the stairs instead of an elevator, also helps lower cholesterol.

Maintain Your Body Weight-

It is necessary to maintain an ideal body weight, as constant fluctuations could lead to skin loosening and hamper the health of the vital organs. Losing weight and cutting down on the intake of salt, also makes blood pressure medications more effective for high BP patients.

Let Peace Be With You-

Inadequate sleep, irregular sleeping habits and too much of tension, aggravates stress and makes one mentally tired and frustrated. Relaxing and taking a deep breath often helps in reducing the effects of hypertension. Also, make it a habit to laugh regularly because with every laugh you will increase your lifespan.

Gudi Padwa- Let’s Usher In Happiness Together

MickeyMehta — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 04:30:35 +0000

All important meetings, events and occasions like engagements or the starting of a new venture is scheduled to take place, exactly on this day. This day is called and celebrated as Gudi Padwa in our Maharashtra. It is the beginning of the New Hindu Calendar, starting with the month Chaitra. Thus, it is also known as Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. Friends, as we Indian believe in unity in diversity, the thought is extended to Gudi Padwa too. I get together with my Maharastrian friends and neighbor, and along with them, welcome the New Year with an auspicious early morning Puja and loads of sweets.

On this day, every household wakes up early morning, dresses up and heads to their balconies. It is here that they set up the Gudi, which is also known as Gudi Ubharne. A Gudi basically consists of a bamboo stick, which is covered with a bright green, yellow or red cloth, but in most cases they use a zari saree. On this they put the gaathi, a few cubes of sugar, neem leaves, mango leaves and a garland of red flowers. A copper or silver pot is then put on the bamboo pole in an inverted position. Once they set up the Gudi, everybody takes its blessing, praying for success and happiness for one and all.

Most of the people begin the day with having a paste of neem leaves mixed with a little jaggery, tamarind and coriander seeds. The lunch generally consists of the scrumptious Puran Poli or Shrikhand puri, accompanied with a mouth watering aloo sabzi. The celebration of the New Year is not limited to Maharastrians alone. Other communities in India also bring in the season of spring and the New Year, in their own traditional ways. In Punjab, it is celebrated as Baishakhi and in Andhra Pradesh it is celebrated as Ugadi.

The Gudi in the house is known to ward off evil and bring in immense good luck and prosperity into the house. There is just so much or happiness and joy around, and you know how it spreads and increases manifold? When you share it with others my friends! This is the day to forget all the bitterness and enmity and usher in the New Year with open arms.

Wish you all very Happy Gudi Padwa friends!

Cesarean Related Back Pain Can Be Treated At Home

MickeyMehta — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 04:30:00 +0000

“When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.” - Sophia Loren

Every woman goes through various phases in her life and with different phases comes different roles. Although, each role brings about a change in her personality, it is motherhood, which challenges her emotional and physical competency. Back pain post pregnancy is normal. However, it shouldn’t put an end to various responsibilities, which motherhood entrusts upon you. Simply follow the below mentioned ideas and you will successfully eliminate the signs that accelerate back pain.

The mattress you choose matters-

Post pregnancy, the first thing you need to do is choose a good mattress. The mattress you choose should have an even surface and should neither be too hard or soft. Mattress built with latex foam, memory foam, air and innerspring helps avoid back pain. Consultation with a doctor will help you find the right mattress for your bed.

Hot bath-

A hot bath is a natural way of relieving pain. If you experience pain, then dissolve some Epsom salt in hot water and take a bath. If bathing is not possible, then try alternate hot and cold padding to help curb the pain. The pain will subside when patted with minimal pressure.

Exercise-

The health of prospective mothers depends on the amount of time they devote to exercise, before and after delivery. If you didn’t exercise enough before delivery, then pain and stress is bound to steal the best of your initial motherhood experience. Not all form of exercises and Asanas may help curb back pain, especially if you have undergone a C-section delivery. Doing Pilates is advisable post pregnancy, as it stretches the muscles of the back and helps improve the abdominal muscles that are stressed during pregnancy. Stretching exercises, Pilates, Quadriped exercises and bridging with the help of an instructor, can provide effective relief to back pain.

However, if nothing seems to work and the pain still persists then visit your doctor immediately. It is always advisable to consult the gynecologist who attended to you prior to exercising as not all exercises may suit you. Ideally, your exercise routine should begin six weeks after surgery. Don’t forget to ask your doctor about the duration and type of exercises that are suitable for you.