De-stressing after Diwali

A Face-book friend from America informed that on Wednesday, President Obama observed the auspicious holiday of Diwali, or festival of lights, in the East Room of the White House. The occasion marked the first time that an American President has observed the holiday. It is nice, pleasing and appropriate gesture towards Indians when President is on his visit to India.

Today, our Sunday morning was brightened up by watching enthusiastic participation of the First Lady Michelle and the President in 'Koli Dance' with students of Holy Name School during Diwali celebrations in Mumbai.

 Diwali celebrations are over and Monday will be resumption of official duties and children back to school.

I searched for some De-stressing tips and found a few worth mentioning here...

• Watching TV may temporarily entertain but in the long run activities like joining gymn/yoga class and a picnic with friends is more satisfying.
• Scent of an orange makes one feel instantly relaxed.  A study has confirmed that the citrus fruit contains 'linalool', a compound whose odor has been shown to lower stress levels in animals. Linalool gradually breaks down when in contact with oxygen, forming an oxidized by-product that may cause allergic reactions such as eczema in susceptible individuals. Then why not enjoy fresh seasonal oranges?
• Nutrients are absorbed into system faster via a beverage that's cold versus one at room temperature. So next time blend your fruit juice with crushed ice.
•  Being super enthusiastic about others achievement spreads positive energy to yourself. Encourage your friends to speak up their minds.
• Grab a protein and carbohydrate (complex one) rich snack...dark chocolate works wonder when your mood dips.
• Surround yourself with colorful flowers. Buy them if you don't get them for yourself. Love yourself before expecting from others.
• Nuts like almonds, pistachos, walnuts contain arginine which stimulates blood flow increasing supply of nutrients to various organs and serotonin which improves mood. Keep handful of them with you wherever you go.
• Let your ipod play motivational tunes for you to keep your spirits high during a tedious task.
• Take a round of near by park and feel the freshness of air.
• Spices like cinnamon maintains blood sugar, cumin raises iron level, coriander elevates magnesium during stress. 
• A charity goes long way...try it.
• Opt for green tea during afternoons which contains threonine to increase concentration while caffiene is rejuvenating for brain.
• Breathing deeply keeps you calm. Giggling for no reason will make you feel happy.
• Enjoy outdoors on a bright sunny day for a vitamin D dose, just ensure you are sun screened.
• Massaging ear lobe increases energy levels. Try it.

Reaching out for unreachable

 Wishing everyone work less, play more, feel great for happy days ahead!