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IPSWICH The library has a number of programs to help get the new year off to a good start.

All will he held over Zoom, so there is no need to worry about catching COVID-19 off infected townsfolk.

Wine 101: Tasting and Pairing: Sunday, January 10 at 7 p.m.

Organizers welcome back Colin Budzyna (WSET II) for an introductory look at winemaking, tasting, and pairing. He also has tips for buying wine.

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For those who are interested, there will be an opportunity to taste and discuss together. The recommended wine to have on hand for the tasting is a Bourgogne Pinot Noir. Clickhere to register.

Budzyna began his wine studies as a server at Eataly Boston, where he first fell in love with Italian wines, organizers said. As his knowledge and interest grew, he enrolled in Boston Universitys Elizabeth Bishop School of Wine, they added.

At BU, Budzyna received his WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (with distinction). He is originally from Newburyport and currently lives in New York City.

Stretch, Flow + Restore Yoga: Wednesday, January 13 at 6 p.m.

You can join Elissa Shoreman from Buddhaful Souls Yoga Studio, Rowley, on the second Wednesday of each month for a relaxing yoga session via Zoom. This class is designed for all levels and will leave you feeling deeply nourished and refreshed, organizers said. No prior yoga experience is necessary. Click here to register.

My classes are eclectic yet available to all. I teach yoga from the heart with the intention of encouraging others to love themselves (as they are) and the world a little bit more each day, Shoreman says.

For me, yoga is about allowing yourself the space to go deeper within. To feel. To breathe into. To be. To recognize. To connect. To honor. I want you to come to the mat as you are. And I promise to do the same, she adds.

Armchair Travel:Northern Sicily: Tuesday, January 26 at 10 a.m.

Reference librarian Jeff Klapes The Traveling Librarian is back with another of his popular armchair travel presentations. This month, hell visit northern Sicily, at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and influenced by many different cultures throughout its history. He will start in Taormina, climb Mount Etna, and follow the northern coast to Palermo and some of the towns of the west coast. Clickhere to register.

Ipswich Public Library Craft Club: Wednesday, January 27 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

This is our first ever (virtual) crafters meetup! organizers said.

Each month, we will create a take-home crafting kit (for adults) that includes all the materials needed to make something special at home. Once registered, participants may pick up a craft kit at the Circulation Desk, they added.

The group will meet on Zoom on the last Wednesday of each month to craft together. Clickhere for more information.

The registration page noted, We love kids, but this event is for adults only.

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Yoga, Sicily, and wine-tasting among library's offerings in January - The Local Ne.ws

Yoga is not only a healthy practice, but it is immensely enjoyable, too. In the winter season, as the temperatures plummet, it is necessary to continue doing yoga, so the body can defend against seasonal illnesses and other health problems. Namita Piparaiya, a yoga and Ayurveda lifestyle specialist, and the founder of Yoganama tells indianexpress.com that in Ayurveda, the winter season is a powerful time when our bodys natural strength and stamina are the highest. Not only that, even the digestive fire called agni, is balanced and powerful. This allows the body to assimilate nutrition and stay warm throughout this season. Naturally, our yoga practice would also evolve with the weather change to ensure the doshas remain balanced, she says.

Piparaiya says that since it is natural for the body to crave a change with the seasons, a few simple tips can help balance your winter yoga practice.

* Start with joint rotations (also called Sukshma Vyayama): Winters are when vata and kapha dosha tend to get disturbed easily. Both can cause stiffness and lethargy. Plus, the cold weather requires us to warm up sufficiently before starting our practice. The colder it is, the more important it becomes to practise joint rotations. Start with moving the toes and gradually make your way up to the ankle, knee, hip, fingers, wrist, elbow, shoulders, and neck in that order.

* Focus more on holding postures: Early winter season is when vata dosha (wind element) is stronger. Vata, like the wind, tends to disperse energy, which needs to be reeled back in. It is also the time for festivals and celebrations, which further scatter our energy, pulling our focus into various activities. Thus, it is time to focus more on grounding yoga practices like Hatha yoga that prioritises holding postures for a longer duration. Too much movement, such as running or excessive walking, can aggravate vata. Sun salutations can be slow with controlled movements.

* Include flow-based Vinyasa yoga in late winters: Late winters are the time when kapha (earth and water elements) starts accumulating. Kapha gets vitiated right after winters in the spring season. This is, therefore, the time when your yoga practice can focus on melting kapha. Include heating yoga postures like Plank Pose, Head Stand, Boat Pose, Warrior Poses, etc. Practise moderately-paced Vinyasa yoga and sun salutations regularly and use ujjayi breath during the asana.

* Challenge yourself: The human body is the strongest in the winter season. This is when you can work on challenging yourself a little more and let your practice be more vigorous, especially if youre a kapha personality type. As always, practise moderation; by overdoing, we can reduce our immunity. But by pushing ourselves just the right amount, we can enhance our strength.

* Practise breathing kriyas: Gentle breathing kriyas like Kapalabhati and Bhastrika can be practised regularly. And once youve had enough practice, with proper guidance, you can include Agnisara and Nauli in late winters. While both are good for kapha dosha, they can aggravate those with pitta type personalities. So, those who have gastric issues should be careful. And its best to stop these practices if they make you irritable or give you a headache.

* Daily pranayama and meditation: These are integral components of a wholesome yoga practice, and you must continue practising them as per your usual routine. You can practise pranayama techniques like Equal Breathing, Double Breathing, and Alternate Nostril Breathing. But please seek guidance before practising cooling pranayama like Sheetali, Sheetkari, or Chandra Bheda. Meditation practice is not influenced by seasons, and you can continue the same routine throughout the year.

These adjustments and changes usually would not require much effort as they follow natures natural rhythm and should come to you seamlessly. All you need is to stay consistent and listen to your body to enjoy each season to its full potential, Piparaiya advises.

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Love doing yoga? Here are six winter practices to incorporate into your everyday life - The Indian Express

Brij Mohan Sharma Nowhere in the world, except in India, has there been a real and sincere research to discover a pragmatic, life-moulding and universally applicable scientific method of reaching Infinity by awakening the consciousness in man of his inherent divinity. The scientific method, so discovered, has been named Yoga by our ancient rishis and accomplished spiritual personages. This is the science which all lovers of God irrespective of their caste, creed or religion may apply to attain the Divine Bliss which is the common goal of all religions. By this, however, it should never be construed that the various religions we practise are, in any way, diffident or lack the requisite ethos to attain the desired objective. In fact all the great religions of the world preach the necessity of finding God and promoting brotherhood among men. What, then, creates the difference among them ? It is the bigotry in mens minds. As the things stand, it seems religion has been hijacked by vested interests whose main mission in life is to keep the pot of bigotry and religious intolerance boiling so as to keep mankind divided. Mine is the only one the best one is the declaration of most of the denominations and cults. The evil spirit of hate and fanaticism has so powerfully infuenced the minds of men that they have lost their moral sense of reason and discrimination. Fundamentalists and fanatics have no ears to lend to the sane voice of humanistic groups who advocate and stress for more and more universal approach to religion. They have installed their henchmen in the places of worship who dance to their tune and parrot their voices. In such a deplorable state of affairs, the practice of a science of religion has become imperative, and Yoga is that science. This is the only time-tested scientific approach to religion which can regain the rejuvenate the lost and much wanted cohesion and harmony among various religions of the world. Yoga teaches us how to rise above the delusion of separation and realize our oneness with God. It enables man to perceive the universal basic truths underlying various religions and defeat the divisive and fundamentalistic tendencies. Once human beings realize that they are all children of the one Father, and that there is no difference in the basic truths of all religions, there will be no more difficulties or dogma. To teach this science of Yoga to the world, India has produced a number of yogis ad Self-realized masters. It is due to their unceasing efforts that Yoga has received world-wide recognition and is being practised almost all over the globe. Paramahansa Yoganandaji was one of such great Yogis and the first great master of India who lived in the West for over thirty years to teach yoga and its universal scientific and spiritual truths. He entered this world in India on January 5, 1893, and left it in America on March 7, 1952. He personally initiated numberless students in yoga and other scientific techniques of meditation for awakening divine consciousness in human beings. Today, more than ever, he is recognised as a world teacher, an enlightened exponent of universal science of yoga, a great son and spiritual ambassador of India, a benefactor of mankind. His nature was universal, his life a blend of spiritual wisdom and practical efficiency. Whatever mans own affiliations, he will definitely benefit from Yoganandajis non-sectarian and scientific instructions. The great master explains the laws of life each of us needs to know. They are valuable for our daily physical, mental and spiritual welfare. By steady and patient practice of Kriya Yoga and other scientific techniques taught by him, man becomes capable of removing the delusive covering of human forgetfullness and the divine love of the heart bursts forth in a joyous flow to meet Gods love. In India, religion has always been understood to be a matter of seeking, finding and verificatons as any of the branches of science. The Indian thinkers discovered by their investigation that there are two fields in which man functions. One, the external field, the other, the internal. They studied both in a scientific spirit. And, it was by this investigation that the science of Yoga, which pertains to the inner field, i.e the subtler laws that rule the hidden spiritual planes and inner realms of consciousness, came into being. For this, the ancient rishis of India adopted the same methods of investigation as are largely applied in the discovery of positive sciences: collection of facts, their classification, dispassionate study of these so as to reveal the law or laws underlying them and finally the application of such knowledge for alleviation of human suffering and enrichment of human life. The insights thus gained were retested and amplified by a galaxy of subsequent thinkers leaving to posterity the invaluable legacy and dynamic scientific tradition known as Yoga. So, Yoga is not a sect but a universally applicable science which enables man to realize his self. Yoga is for everybody, for the people of the East as well as for those of West. It is not meant for any particular religion. All men, irrespective of their caste, creed and religion, have the right to practice yoga to know their immortal divine nature. In brief, realization of the oneness of man and his Creator is the whole essence of Yoga. An understanding of mans inescapable need for God, in every aspect of living, removes the other worldliness from the religion, and makes knowing God the basis of a scientific and practiced approach to life. God is approachable. Talking of Him and listening to His words in the scriptures, thinking of Him, feeling His presence in meditation, you will see that gradually the Unreal becomes real, and this world which you think is real will be seen as unreal. There is no joy like that realization, says Paramahansa Yogananda. To be honest, it is difficult to describe in words the glory of the science of Yoga. As the saying goes, the proof of the pudding is in its eating. So, why not start practising yoga meditation from today. (Yes, I mean from today!) Let me give you some hints from Chapter VI of holy Gita: Sit in a quiet place on a soft cushion with your spine erect and straight. Close your eyes, and focus their gaze on the space between the eyebrows- the centre of concentration and the seat of intuition. Meditate as deeply as you can without winking your eyes. Those who go deep enough in their concentration and meditate regularly are sure to penetrate the third eye and feel Gods presence. However, for actual training and practice, you shall have to seek guidance of a true Guru. I use the word true Guru because in this age.it is a rare thing to find a combination of perfect purity and perfect learning, as correctly observed by Mahatma Gandhi once. Without realization through meditation, religion is the most mysterious book of all. You will never be able to understand it. So, make religion real by scientific methods of yoga. Science gives you definiteness and certainty. If I have not spent hours seeking God in meditation, I would not have known that religion is a science, said Parmahansa Yogananda. (The writer is former Additional Secretary to Govt) feedbackexcelsior@gmail.com

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Yoga- The scientific approach to religion - Daily Excelsior

DEAR MAYO CLINIC >> I have always been fairly flexible, so I have never felt compelled to include yoga in my fitness routine. Typically, I just walk and maybe do some weights for strength training. I was talking to a friend who said her physical therapist recommended yoga as part of a well-rounded workout routine. What is the benefit of yoga? Should I add it to my routine or stick with what I'm doing?

ANSWER >> Yoga is a wonderful form of exercise that provides benefits that walking or strength training don't provide. In Eastern cultures, yoga is not seen as exercise, but rather "a moving meditation." In the Western world, many people know power yoga or vinyasa yoga, which are classified as exercise.

Regardless of the type of yoga, when practiced mindfully, there are many advantages for the body, mind and soul. Yoga can provide three primary benefits that a typical gym routine may not provide.

Benefit 1: Yoga improves the function of the nervous system. Since yoga is based on breathing, parts of the nervous system are affected when exhales are lengthened and breath is controlled. This is cued throughout particular yoga sequences. Specifically, yoga can help lower the fight-or-flight response and improve the body's "rest-and-digest" response.

Practicing slow, controlled breathing stimulates the body's vagus nerve, which takes information about the current state of relaxation and relays it to the rest of the body, including the brain. One area affected when the vagal nerve is stimulated is the parasympathic nervous system, which controls the body's rest and digestion functions. The mindful breathing practiced in yoga increases the activity of the parasympathic nervous system. As a result, yoga lowers the heart rate, improves digestion and quality of sleep, and strengthens the immune system. Another benefit is an improved stress level.

Benefit 2: Yoga can improve joint range of motion. The difference between flexibility and active range of motion is important. Think of flexibility as how much a muscle can be passively stretched. In contrast, range of motion is how much muscles can be used to control a joint's movement.

It is not uncommon these days for people to report neck and back pain, and poor range of motion in their thoracic spine due to constant sitting, typing on computers and looking down at cellphones. Yoga is excellent in improving thoracic range of motion because many poses involve extending the body through the rib cage and using strength to hold these postures.

Yoga incorporates all four motions of the spine: flexion, extension, rotation and side-bending. Therefore, yoga can prevent stiffness and disuse that also can occur with age. Being able to control the available range of motion in joints is crucial to good posture and decreasing the risk of injury.

Benefit 3: Yoga improves dynamic balance, decreasing the risk of falling. Think of balance like a muscle. By working hard at different exercises, balance can improve. This is similar to improved strength by lifting weights.

Balance is a complex system, requiring three parts: the sensation of the foot on the ground, or proprioception; vision; and the inner ear, or vestibular system. These three parts tell the brain where the head is in space. These three components work together to control both static and dynamic balance. Yoga trains the proprioception and visual systems to improve balance. Depending on the pose, cues are sent to focus, for instance, on the foot rooted to the ground. By concentrating in an attempt to maintain contact, the big toe, little toe and heel form a tripod of sorts, which in turn helps focus the proprioception portion of balance.

In yoga, you may hear the term "drishti," which refers to obtaining a focused gaze or focus in the mind. The concept comes into play as people aim to hold a pose with their eyes closed. Certain poses become more challenging with eyes closed, which improves the visual part of balance.

Also, moving back and forth between poses without fully touching a limb to the ground can increase the ability to dynamically move and not lose balance. Over time, this will reduce the risk of falling while walking on uneven ground or turning quickly.

While it may be hard to add one more thing to your busy life routine, incorporating yoga into your workout routine can benefit your stress level, mobility and balance in ways that may not be achieved from a regular gym routine.

Lauren Hubbard, D.P.T., Physical Therapy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida

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Mayo Clinic Q&A: The health benefits of yoga - Reading Eagle

After the stresses of the pandemic and other challenges of 2020 taking a toll on the mental health of many, local yoga experts are offering tips on how to shake off all the 2020 baggage and enter 2021 with a better state of mind.

DULUTH, Minn. After the stresses of the pandemic and other challenges of 2020 taking a toll on the mental health of many, local yoga experts are offering tips on how to shake off all the 2020 baggage and enter 2021 with a better state of mind.

The co-owner of Yoga North in Duluth details some ways to turn inward and focus on making you feel more resilient.

She stresses practices like meditation and finding a sense of stillness and quiet to help combat mental health problems, just some of the many activities she says to help stabilize and calm your mind for the new year.

So practices that get you a little bit more embodied, whether it be a yoga practice or walking in nature or exercising or dancing or whatever it is that helps you be in your body, and then coupling that with practices that help you calm your breath and your mind can be a stabilizer for mental health, said Molly McManus, the co-owner of Yoga North.

Yoga North in Duluth offers virtual classes via Zoom for patrons to get involved. The first classes of 2021 start Monday.

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Yoga Instructor Gives Tips for a Healthy New Year - FOX 21 Online

Much like just about everything else this year, New Years Eve is going to look pretty different than it usually does as we all try to stay socially distanced at the pandemics peak. And even if you typically opt to quietly watch the ball drop from home on December 31, the feelingof the end of this year is likely to be distinct from that of any before it; its pretty safe to bet that most of us have a lot riding on the hope that 2021 is going to be much better than 2020 in every way possible.

As such, this New Years Eve is shaping up to be more introspective than usual, and many of us are planning to lean heavily into the restorative practices thatve seen us through the last nine months as the curtain closes on 2020 at long last. Mindfulness, quietude, and gentle movement will supplement or even supplant champagne as we all steel ourselves for whats left of COVID-19s challenges, while simultaneously allowing ourselves to envision a happier path ahead. If youre looking to partake in a yoga flow, meditation, or combination of the two thats specifically oriented towards letting go, looking forward, and setting positive intentions for the new year this December 31, there are a number to choose from.

1. Yoga for New Beginnings from Yoga with Adriene

YouTube yoga superstar Adriene Mishlerwhos been creating a ton of mental health-focused content this year, including the uber-popular Yoga for When You Feel Dead Inside flowwill be releasing an 18-minute practice on December 31 specifically geared towards turning the page on 2020. Its free.

2. 90-Minute Flow Into The New Year with Kathryn Budig on Glo

On the Glo fitness platform, popular yogi Kathryn Budig will be leading a level two 90-minute flow thatll set just the right tone for sloughing off the weight of 2020 and moving into the relative light of 2021. This flow requires a Glo membership, but free trials are available.

3. Releasing 2020 New Years Eve Event Restorative Yoga and Meditation with Nicole Havelka

Nicole Havelka is certified in many types of meditation and also specializes in restorative and trauma-sensitive yoga. This New Years Eve, shell be hosting a two-hour event from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST aimed at releasing 2020 and setting intentions for 2021. It will include both restorative yoga and meditation practices. Tickets are $20-$60.

4. New Beginnings Yoga at Strla Yoga

This locally-beloved New York City-based studio will be offering a new beginnings flow at 10 p.m. EST to stretch, strengthen, and inhale/exhale your way into 2021. Strla Yoga is membership-based, and is free for seven days and then $19.99 per month thereafter.

5. New Years Eve class with Donna Rubin at bod nyc

At 10 p.m. EST, bod nyc studio co-founder Donna Rubin will lead a 60-minute flow followed by a 15-minute yoga nidra meditation to seal off 2020 and welcome in the new year.

6. Savasana into the New Year with Kristin Bilella at mangOh Yoga

This event, which will stream from 8pm to 10 p.m. EST, will include a letting go ceremony and vinyasa flow followed by a deep Savasana to help ease both mind and body into the new year. Its led by yoga instructor Kristin Biellla and costs $25.

1. Resolve to Evolve from Yoga with Adriene

Mishler is also offering a 10-minute meditation on her YouTube channel this December 31, which will be geared toward the resolution behind most of our more specific yearly resolutions: self-evolution. (Maybe this year, we can resolve to evolve as a species, too?) Its free.

2. New Years Eve meditations with Kelsey Patel on PureJoy

LA-based Reiki master and wellness expert Kelsey Patel is launching her new app, PureJoy, on December 31. That day, shell offer two different events; the first is a clearing, healing, and grounding meditation and then second is focused around intention setting. The first week on PureJoy is free.

3. Charting Your Course for 2021 with Heather Hayward at Unplug Meditation

LA-based meditation studio Unplug Meditation is offering a New Years Eve event with life coach and meditation teacher Heather Hayward. It will stream from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. PST and include guided journaling, meditating, and intention-setting. Its $40.

4. Release 2020 and Embrace 2021Mind, Body, and Soul with Shayna Hiller at Unplug Meditation

The studio will also host an event from 10 p.m. to 11:55 p.m. PST that will focus on helping you zero in on the things you want to leave behind from 2020 and bring into your life in 2021. It will involve journaling, dynamic meditation with breath and movement, and a sound bath. Its $45.

5. Ready to Take On What Is To Come Meditation with Kadam Morten

The Kadampa Meditation Center in New York City will be live-streaming a 90-minute meditation held from 10:30 p.m. to midnight EST. Its to be hosted by meditation teacher Kadam Morten, who says the focus will be on letting go of any tension and unhappiness built up in 2020 in order to enter 2021 refreshed, fortified, and open to whats to come next. Its $20.

6. New Years Eve Meditation with Sahaja Yoga Meditation

Sahaja Yoga is a unique form of meditation that is well-suited to all levels, even beginners. Their New Years Eve practice will stream at 9:45 p.m. EST, with some virtual socializing scheduled for the end of the session. Its free.

7. Silence and Celebration: A New Years Eve Retreat and Party (Online) at Shambhala Los Angeles

If youre looking for an intensive meditation experience on December 31, this may be it. From 4 p.m. until 1 a.m. PST, LAs Shambhala meditation center will offer an online retreat consisting of two different Zoom rooms. One will be the Silence Room, where ongoing meditations will be held, and the other will be the Celebration Room, to be utilized for socializing with the community. All levels are welcome, and the price is $20.

8. New York Insights Annual New Years Eve Gathering and Celebration

Insights virtual New Years Eve event runs from 8:45 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. and will include meditations, chanting, intention-setting, socializing, and a surprise ending. Its $15-$35.

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14 New Years Eve Meditation and Yoga Classes You Can Stream Online - Well+Good

I created Afro Yoga Allies for non-Black people who genuinely care about achieving racial justice and equity, particularly in the wellness industry,

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (PRWEB) January 01, 2021

Afro Yoga, an emerging wellness and education nonprofit that provides yoga and wellness instruction for everyone by supporting equity, diversity, and inclusion in the wellness industry, announced the launch of Afro Yoga Allies. Afro Yoga Allies is a sister platform to Afro Yoga. Its objective is to link non-Black allies with BIPOC to glean anti-racism education and build racial equity in the wellness industry through direct investment in the wellness of BIPOC communities.

With today's announcement, Afro Yoga Allies is also announcing its first round of funding scheduled for January 15, where five aspiring teachers will receive scholarships to complete yoga and wellness courses and training. Both the member allies and the Afro Yoga leadership team will collaborate through a digital community where all content is led, reviewed, and approved by BIPOC. The portal is the source of all profits from the work of allies, directly investing to benefit yoga teachers applying for the Afro Yoga Community Fund. (501c3).

"I created Afro Yoga Allies for non-Black people who genuinely care about achieving racial justice and equality, particularly in the wellness industry, to work with us," said Angela Franklin, the founder and executive director of Afro Yoga and Afro Yoga Allies. "Our allies are real change agents; people who are committing to improving racial justice by making their businesses more inclusive and welcoming and helping build funds for students learning to become yoga teachers."

Since 2017, Ms. Franklin has sought to intersect where wellness and social justice meet by leading racial equity and community building training for companies and organizations including Lululemon, UC-Davis and many other universities, nonprofit organizations, and people to advance her work. For four years, Afro Yoga has become an innovative organization for others to learn Kemetic yoga whose origin lies in Ancient Egypt and become educated on racial and social justice, as well as to create safe places for BIPOC to practice yoga.

"It is past time for acknowledging the colonial behaviors embedded in our way of being and living and the impact this has on the yoga industry. Our Afro Yoga Allies program is an important way for the yoga industry, and health and wellness can address it," said Ms. Franklin.

About Afro Yoga: Afro Yoga, is a wellness movement comprised of Kemetic Yoga, racial justice education, community engagement and optimal health that is revolutionizing the wellness industry. To learn more visit https//:afroyoga.org/allies and follow on IG: @afroyogabyangie.

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Afro Yoga Allies Is Launched to Support BIPOC - PR Web

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires you to take extra care of yourself throughout the year. But there are certain months when your risk of succumbing to it becomes high and therefore you need to know the effective arsenals against diabetes. We all know that stress and inactivity are two main culprits behind the increase in blood sugar level. And, during winters, it becomes challenging for you not to put stress on your body and keep it moving. Thats when your body goes into fight-or-flight mode. This leads to the excessive release of adrenaline and cortisol hormones that are harmful to diabetics. Also, in a bid to gather energy for daily activities, your body starts releasing glucose and that increases your blood sugar level. Also Read - Diabetes Increases The Risk Of COVID-19: Here Are Steps To Protect Your Health

In 2016, an estimated 1.6 million deaths were directly caused by diabetes. Another 2.2 million deaths were attributable to high blood glucose in 2012, says the WHO. It also states that the number of people with diabetes rose from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. This is only the result of the ineffective management of diabetes. Therefore, here we share 10 naturopathy and yoga tips that can help people with diabetes during the cold season. Also Read - People With Eye Disease, Diabetes At 5-Fold Risk of Severe COVID-19: Study

A well-balanced diet is crucial to keep diabetes in control no matter the season. It is recommended to include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lentils, beans, and oatmeal. Sweets and fatty foods should be avoided. Also, diabetics should refrain from consuming dry fruits as the fructose in them may spike the sugar level. Also Read - Here's Why You Should Have Green Tea If You Have Type 2 Diabetes

It is essential to keep the body hydrated at all times to get rid of the excess glucose through urine. Water should be the primary beverage choice as other beverages are loaded with preservatives and sugar.

The ancient practice of yoga can work wonders on the body, helping people with diabetes to keep the disease under control and lead a normal, happy life. Science has shown that specific yoga poses that involve the twisting and stretching of the internal muscles and organs stimulate the pancreas and endocrine system. This facilitates insulin secretion, which keeps the blood glucose levels under check.

Alternative treatment methods like acupuncture, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, etc., can restore harmony to the body in several ways. Acupuncture, where thin needles inserted into specific points in the body, can help with weight loss, control blood sugar levels, and reduce insulin resistance. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy promote neurological and musculoskeletal functions that aids in weight loss, reduces stress levels, and lowers blood pressure.

Sound sleep is vital as the body relies on it to repair itself from exposure to toxins, daily stressors, and much more. Diabetics should aim for at least 6-7 hours of continuous sleep daily to let the body recuperate from damages and boost the immune system.

Those affected with diabetes live with a lot of stress. It can cause spurts of anxiety, mood change, confusion, and depression. The American Diabetes Association says that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may occur during winters; however, it is treatable. Spending time with loved ones, indulging in hobbies, or getting professional help are some of the ways through which diabetics can find relief.

To maintain personal hygiene, people with diabetes should wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with a natural soap. Apart from that, saline rinses using a Neti pot should also be practiced as it keeps the respiratory passages clear.

Obesity can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 80-85 percent. For people with obesity, the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to meet the bodys needs. Therefore, losing weight becomes the only option to stay healthy and fit. Regular exercise, brisk walks, etc., should be incorporated into daily life to get rid of excess weight.

Diabetics should stay away from high-fat food, alcohol, caffeine, and white sugar, suppressing the immune systems effects. Too much high-fat foods can block the lymphatic system, hindering the bodys ability to fight infections.

Spending time outdoors or in nature not only boosts mood but also increases Vitamin D levels in the body. Vitamin D is an essential component that enhances the bodys ability to recognise pathogens and come up with a response against them, especially influenza.

Diabetes care is complex and it goes well beyond glucose control. Physical activity, healthy eating, and maintain proper body weight are crucial factors in preventing, managing, and reversing diabetes. Naturopathy explores a wide range of factors to determine which ones should be prioritized and how they can be modified to aid diabetics to effectively manage their condition during the winter season.

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10 Useful Naturopathy And Yoga Tips For Diabetics in Winters - India.com

Brianna Childers |Topeka Capital-Journal

A new year is synonymous with new habits, goals and resolutions. As 2021 kicks off, some people may be searching for a way to connect with themselves and those around them.

Knowing that the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to linger for some time, local yoga instructor Kathy Damron wants to offercommunity members a way to focus and recenter themselves during a 21-day meditation program.

The Power of Connection series, which begins Monday, will include a three- to five-minute daily meditation and prompt. The program costs$30, and those interested maysign up by visiting kathydamronyoga.com.

The daily meditation practice will be delivered to participants via text message or email. Each day, the program will walk through a short meditation and some will be followed by a short prompt that invites people todive deeper into the topic discussed during the practice.

It is "all designed to help people gain perspective that while we are socially distancing, there are lots of ways that we can stay connected, even if it's just mentally," Damron said.

Damron said the 21-day program is also a good opportunity for people to decide whethermeditation is a practice they are interested in continuing long-term.

"I think it sounds really mystic to people and a little bit intimating sometimes, or at least it did to me, and it doesn't really have to be any of that," Damron said. "You don't have to have ritual or ceremony or even a special place where you meditate. You just have to find that space where you can be sort of still and quiet, three minutes, five minutes, 10 minutes whatever works best for you where you center yourself, let yourselfjust not really think about the past and future too much and allow yourself to be present."

Damron said research confirms that meditation reduces stress andallows your mind to develop the capacity to be less anxious.

Damron started meditating about 10 years ago to complement her yoga practice,she said.

"In a lot of yoga classes, there will be a very beginning section where you center yourself, you let your mind get a little stiller or calm and do some breathing exercises," Damron said. "I found it to be really very helpful."

During 2020, Damron said, meditation has given her perspective. Thinking back to the beginning of the year, there was a lot of uncertainty regarding how long the pandemic would last and how infectious the novel coronavirus would be.

"Having a meditation practice really helped me to stay focused on the present moment, what I was doing today, not really what was going to be happening down the road because we really didn't know what that meant," Damron said.

Damron said she hopes those who participate in the meditation practice develop a deeper sense of perspective and recognition that although people are socially isolated right now, they are connected to one another and the place where they live.

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Topeka yoga teacher will start 2021 by offering 21-day meditation series - The Topeka Capital-Journal

If you keep up with Jessica Alba on social media, then you know that the Killers Anonymous star is basically the queen of TikTok. And while all that dancing is a great workout, youre probably wondering what else she does to stay so fit at 39.

Amid her busy lifestyle as an actress, entrepreneur, and mom of three, Alba prioritizes a consistent fitness routine and nutrient-packed diet to keep her energy going. Working out takes away that little edge so that I feel happier and more productive, and my brain can get kick-started, she once told Shape.

That said, her schedule has some wiggle room. As Ive gotten older and after I became a mom, it became more of a priority to be healthy for the right reasons, Alba told People. Its more important to have a balanced approach instead of trying to be perfect.

To stay healthy and strong, she swears by Pilates, HIIT workouts, plant-based meals, and some downtime. Heres everything Alba has shared about her active lifestyle.

Albas mentality around exercise has shifted over the years. I always thought, I need to sweat out my weight in water, I need to have muscle failure, I need to feel like I just ran a marathonthats how hard I needed to work out, she recently told Womens Health.

When the coronavirus pandemic resulted in the closure of gyms across the U.S., Alba realized she didnt have to go so hard. Ive learned to mix it up and not feel like a failure if Im not, you know, killing myself, she said, adding that sometimes a workout is just a walk while listening to a podcast. She also aims to sweat it out two to four times a week.

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Alba is a longtime fan of hot yoga, but recently gave Reformer Pilates a try, which she credits to sculpting her abs. I feel every muscle in my core, she told Womens Health. I never even knew I had those things.

Outside of a pandemic, Alba also loves going to spin classes for a dose of cardio. I prefer it mixed in with light weights, so like a sculpting hot yoga class, she told Byrdie. Ill always work out with a friend because its more fun.

Alba incorporates high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into her fitness routine, too. I like moving around a lot. I dont like a lot of repetition, she told Byrdie. Two exercises she doesnt enjoy? Squats and plyometrics (like jump training). It makes me feel nauseous, she admitted. As for running, I feel like I have to work myself up to itI have to train to get to a point where I can run, she said. I have to get fit enough to run!

But she pushes herself when she feels the motivation to. I love my shape because it does what I want it to. If I want to go on a hike or a bike ride or go for a swim, I know my body will do everything I tell it to, she told Shape. I also appreciate that I can push myself through when Im feeling tired. Theres always a little extra something to get me past the tired moments.

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Every week, Alba cuts down on animal products and booze. Four days a week, I try to eat plant-based, and I dont drink alcohol, the actress told Womens Health. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, all bets are off. That feels like moderation to me.

She also told Byrdie that her usual menu includes protein shakes with almond butter, banana, and coconut water. For breakfast, her go-to is avocado toast and poached eggs, and snacks always include fresh veggies and hummus or popcorn with Himalayan sea salt and coconut oil. I try to stick to a diet thats low in sugar and carbs and high in lean protein and vegetables, she told Shape.

For Alba, stocking her home with healthy foods is key to maintaining a balanced diet. Always try to have as many fresh and natural things in your diet as possible and the least amount of processed things and things that have unnatural sugars, she told Byrdie.

Along with not drinking alcohol, Alba stays hydrated with coconut water. I really love the health benefits that come with coconut water, she told Byrdie, as its a source of nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. I dont drink a ton of other types of drinks. I drink coffee, tea, and coconut waterthats it.

I think staying hydrated is really important, she added. Just making sure you do stay hydrated for glowing skin and high energy. Its important for overall health.

For Alba, meditation is key to coping with stress. When Im feeling anxious, I hold on to a crystal and do breathing exercises and try to focus on the energy of love, kindness, and calming, she told Womens Health, adding that this routine results in a healthy mind-body connection for her.

For Alba, its important to understand the full scope of what I need to be my best self for my kids, my friends, my family, my work, and most importantly, probably, for me, so I can feel moreI hate the word balanced, but maybemore connected, she said.

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Jessica Alba Swears by Pilates, HIIT, and Hot Yoga for Strong, Sculpted Abs at 39 - Prevention.com