The most prominent health risk found in developed countries after tobacco consumption is the lack of physical activity. This is what the World Health Organization, the primary health regulating agency of the world states. In India too, with an increasing urban population and rise in the standard of living, physical inactivity has become the order of the day. With flats and high rise buildings occupying each and every square feet of the playing grounds, the urban population (children and adults alike) is suffering majorly from the so-called physical inactivity. This has resulted into the following consequences: a) People have gained weight due to lack of physical activity which make them more prone to cardiovascular problems. b) The average medical bill of the common family has increased by a substantial amount as healthcare costs have skyrocketed over the past few years. c) This has led to other complications like mental instability and depression among the victims. Hence, the most sought after solution is a planned weight reduction programme. Cycling in this respect has proved to be a boon in the hour of crisis. Cycling is considered the second best calorie burning activity after swimming and in terms of overall convenience, it tops the charts. The main effect of cycling is that it increases the rate of metabolism of the human body thereby causing a loss in the weight. Cycling targets the lower half of the human body (abs, thighs, backs and legs) which is the region of maximum fat accumulation in humans. Some of the distinguished benefits of cycling on the health of the human are: a) Cycling is an aerobic (involving oxygen circulation) exercise and hence involves exercise of the … [Read more...]
Fasting: Facts and Benefits
The term fasting is defined as self-denial of all intakes except water in an atmosphere of repose. It is also treated as a way of pleasing God in some religions. A person can practice fasting by making unusual intervals between routine food timings or can stay a longer period by intentionally opts not to eat/drink. We all have the ability of surviving without food for longer period than we realize. Fasting is a widely accepted natural way to normalize the body weight. It disbands the unnecessary fats deposited in our body. Those who fast look younger than those who don’t fast. Fasting helps to maintain youthfulness and long life. Spiritual experts say, when God has not answered to your prayers, try prayer with fasting. 20 benefits of fasting: Fasting can be for a full day or part of a day, preferably once in a week, the duration of fast depends on personal health and the purpose. 1. Fasting is constructive for both overweight and underweight persons. Weak persons also can practice fasting for improvement of their health; it is observed that, their weight will increase rather than decrease. Fasting also normalizes the digestive system of underweight persons and helps to cure existing disorders.2. Fasting is helpful for character building, developing self-discipline, temperance and to maintain better eating habits. 3. Fasting clears the skin and whitens the eyes. The disposal of toxic materials from the body and cleansing of blood during fast helps to clear certain skin problems, and it bring backs the original whites of the eyes. 4. Fasting once in a week and controlled eating habits … [Read more...]
