Our bodies work in a particular rhythm. They work optimally if given food at the right times, adequate uninterrupted rejuvenating sleep, moderate regular exercise and plenty of positivity
Work-life balance, does it even exist? Many women might say- work is also part of my life, so why call it work-life balance. So, let’s be clear. Work-life balance can be rephrased -- BALANCE IN LIFE.
Women take pride in multitasking and wearing many hats at a time. Be it homemaking, high profile management, profession, passion, social work or politics, women are in all spheres now. There is the traditional job of getting married, bearing and rearing children, household chores and not to forget, caring for elders. All in all, women nowadays have to strike a balance in their life like never before.
As a gynaecologist, I come across women of all ages- adolescents to menopausal; all spheres- homemakers to CEOs and entrepreneurs. They are all primarily women with the same anatomy, physiology and hormones. Each one of them faces problems and issues intrinsic to their feminine bodies and minds. As women, our body clocks are slightly different. We apparently need more of that elusive sleep than men. We have a circadian rhythm that can go berserk with child-rearing and household chores. With the sleep deficit, comes hormonal disharmony. Career-oriented women face a unique set of challenges. Early starts and cooking meals for the entire family, long commutes, being online for every call, night shifts for some, handling colleagues, juniors or seniors, with all this comes the unrelenting stress from many quarters.
Our bodies work in a particular rhythm. They work optimally if given food at the right times, adequate uninterrupted rejuvenating sleep, moderate regular exercise and plenty of positivity.
Menstrual and reproductive problems are on the rise. It is not uncommon for me to see college girls coming with body image issues with new breakouts of acne, sudden weight gain which is difficult to lose, unwanted facial and body hair and several mood disorders. The polycystic ovarian syndrome has been directly associated with lifestyle and is no less a lifestyle disorder than diabetes and hypertension. Heavy or light periods, irregularities and pain during periods can stem from changes in lifestyle, stress, career moves and relocation. Women working with MNCs based on other time zones (more than 4 hours from IST), tend to develop weight issues and hormonal imbalances within a few months of work. Constant VDU use in air-conditioned chambers with little or no exercise leads to several problems such as repetitive stress injury, sleep deprivation, mood disorders and of course weight gain.
Another big concern is that women with high-flying careers who want to climb up the ladder professionally tend to postpone childbearing to their late thirties and early forties. With this delay, come a host of inevitable challenges like the poor quality and quantity of eggs in the limited ovarian reserve. Pregnancy in this age group can be a bit more challenging to the body. Pre-existing obesity, diabetes and hypertension complicate the matter. Chromosomal disorders are more likely to occur. They need more follow up, more blood tests and ultrasound scans than a younger woman which they may not be able to comply with. Menopause is another challenging period in a woman’s life wherein mood swings, hot flashes and urogenital symptoms can interrupt the quality of life and work. Most women continue work until the age of retirement and may face a host of challenges such as empty nest syndrome, loss of a loved one or caring for the elderly.
With that in the background, how can we make it better for ourselves? The following may help as a guideline to a better balance in life:
· Acknowledge that certain jobs are incompatible with a good balance
o Face the truth about your limitations
o Take responsibility for designing your life as you would like to prioritise
o Set boundaries to all the chores
· Incorporate good habits
o Find time for mindful eating at regular intervals and stick to it (pack up boxes with salads, fruits and protein)
o Find opportunities for regular moderate exercise (taking the stairs, walking to work)
o Get adequate uninterrupted sleep by being organised and disciplined (do the ironing, pack school bags, delegate tasks)
· Network and delegate
o Networking starts at home (ask hubby to help with homework, ask mom to help with chopping)
o Delegate individual tasks to people and ask them to report back, make it their habit
o Ask for help from colleagues and keep them in your good books. Treat them occasionally.
· Separate home and work
o Forget work after you cross the office gate
o Focus on home and children at other times without distractions
o Keep that phone away for a few hours of the day while at home
o Work from home during the school hours and switch off after
· Making time for yourself
o Get a few hours of the weekend for yourself, an hour of the gym, a run, a meal out with family or friends
o Relaxation and meditation times every day
o Investing in a spa appointment or a massage
The ‘Five-ball concept’ in management refers to our priorities in life- Work, family, health, relationships and spirituality. Practically, a mortal being can only handle 2 of these balls at a time, whilst the remaining three are in the air. There is a delicate balance of time and coordination. The lesser priorities could be considered to be rubber balls that can bounce back and be incorporated into the juggling cycle. However, the top priorities which are likened to glass balls, are likely to break, if not taken care of. This analogy helps us understand what our top priorities would be. It would be prudent to try and amalgamate two spheres in one activity to save time. For eg., health and family could be amalgamated through a family day out trekking. A yoga session amalgamates spirituality and health. The possibilities are limitless.
As women, we have the responsibility and the prerogative of designing our and our families’ lives to incorporate discipline, skills and independence in our loved ones. We can find the freedom of taking our lives into our hands and live it the way we want to. Unless we are healthy, our careers and families are in jeopardy. Finding joy in work and finding purpose in family and life are worthwhile pursuits. Our happiness may in fact have nothing to do with finding balance but much rather, as John Irving writes, with finding a way of life we love and having the courage to live it.
Author Dr Aruna Muralidhar, MD, MRCOG (UK), FRCOG (UK) is the associate director and senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Fortis La Femme Hospital, Richmond Road, Bengaluru
Parkinson's disease is characterized by the degeneration of brain cells that produce dopamine. This degeneration causes a variety of symptoms, such as tremors, muscle rigidity, sluggish movement, and postural instability. This emphasizes how crucial early detection and treatment are to successfully manage Parkinson's disease.
After an extended stay in the US, Ms. Aditi's reunion with her mother upon arriving in India did not turn out as planned. She noticed some significant and concerning shifts in her mother's behavior. The mother, who was always a lively and active woman, had begun to walk more slowly, her hands trembled, and her voice had become weaker and less clear.
Out of concern for her mother's health, Aditi sought immediate medical attention at the Neurology department of Manipal Hospital Varthur Road. After a comprehensive neurological examination, it was concluded that Aditi's mother was displaying the typical symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a degenerative neurological condition that mostly impairs movement.
Parkinson's disease is characterized by the degeneration of brain cells that produce dopamine. This degeneration causes various symptoms, such as tremors, muscle rigidity, sluggish movement, and postural instability. Furthermore, the condition frequently coexists with non-motor symptoms such as constipation, depression, sleep problems, and cognitive impairment, which makes care even more challenging. Since Aditi sought medical attention right away, her mother's symptoms showed significant improvement in over a month with proper medication and attention. This emphasizes how crucial early detection and treatment are to successfully managing Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease is common but is quite often undiagnosed. In many cases, the initial symptoms are dismissed as signs of aging. It is crucial to comprehend the complexities of the ailment to guarantee prompt therapy and better results. The specific causes of Parkinson’s Disease are yet to be determined. However, genetic predisposition and certain drugs are known to contribute to its onset. Parkinson's disease does not have a definitive cure yet, but with the right medicine and physiotherapy, its symptoms can be adequately managed. Surgical interventions could be considered in certain situations.
Yet, beyond the physical manifestations, the emotional and communicative changes associated with the disease pose significant challenges. Stigma, poor self-esteem, and loneliness can profoundly impact patients' quality of life, highlighting the importance of addressing these aspects alongside motor symptoms. with awareness and proactive healthcare, its impact can be mitigated.
Here, Aditi's story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of early intervention and the need for a holistic approach to managing this debilitating condition. By fostering greater understanding and support, we can empower individuals and families affected by Parkinson's to lead fulfilling lives despite its challenges.
-This article is authored by Dr. Chetan Kumar A, Consultant – Neurology, Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road
Last Updated Dec 23, 2021, 3:54 PM ISTAs we celebrate this special day on May 12, 2024, here are five great activities to make Mother's Day special for both of you, ranging from cooking beautiful meals to embarking on creative adventures.
Mother's Day is an excellent occasion to honor the special link between moms and their children. It's an opportunity to create treasured memories and develop lifelong bonds. What better way to celebrate this wonderful relationship than to spend quality time together? As we celebrate this special day on May 12, 2024, here are five great activities to make Mother's Day special for both of you, ranging from cooking beautiful meals to embarking on creative adventures.
Engage in a creative workshop
Get creative together by joining a fun workshop with your mom. Try out activities like painting, pottery, or coffee making - whatever catches your interest. You can either go to a nearby art class or create your workshop at home. Let your imagination flow freely and have a good time exploring your creative side. It's all about having fun and bonding while discovering new talents together.
Cook and Bond Together
Bond with your mom this Mother's Day by steaming up a batch of nutritious Moong Dal and Vegetable Idli in the Serie 8 Bosch Steam Oven with Home Connect. Together, blend lentils, rice, and fresh veggies, filling the kitchen with aromas of togetherness. The oven's 4D air technology and Home Connect app ensure even steaming and precise temperature control, locking in flavors and nutrients. You can even monitor and adjust the settings remotely from your smartphone.
Serve the light, protein, and fiber-rich idlis hot with a zesty coconut-mint chutney. Savor the deliciousness as you share stories and laughter, celebrating your nurturing bond. The connected steam oven creates a space for cherished moments, making this Mother's Day truly special.
Also read: Jolly LLB 3: Complained failed against Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi for disrespecting judiciary
Hop on a Movie Marathon
Snuggle up on the couch with some popcorn and indulge in a movie marathon featuring your favorite films or TV shows. Whether you're into classic rom-coms, thrillers, or heartwarming dramas, choose a selection of movies that you both love and enjoy a cozy day of binge-watching together.
Be fit together
Nurture your mind, body, and spirit with a relaxing yoga session. Roll out your mats, find a peaceful spot in your home or garden, and practice yoga together. Yoga not only promotes physical health but also fosters emotional well-being and mindfulness. Connect on a deeper level as you breathe, stretch, and flow through the practice.
DIY Spa Day
Treat your mom to a relaxing spa day at home. Create a serene atmosphere with scented candles, soothing music, and fluffy robes. Pamper her with homemade face masks, foot baths, and massages. It's a wonderful way to help her unwind and feel appreciated.
Last Updated Dec 23, 2021, 3:54 PM ISTIndian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja and his wife Rivaba exercised their voting rights in Gujarat's Jamnagar during the Lok Sabha elections. Jadeja, a star all-rounder, shared their voting experience on Instagram.
Indian cricket sensation Ravindra Jadeja, accompanied by his wife Rivaba Jadeja, exercised their voting rights at a polling booth in Gujarat's Jamnagar during the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections. Sharing a snapshot on Instagram, Jadeja emphasised the significance of voting with the caption "My vote, my right." Rivaba, also a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from the Jamnagar North Assembly constituency, joined her husband in casting their votes.
| Jamnagar, Gujarat: Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja arrives to cast his vote with his wife Rivaba Jadeja. pic.twitter.com/1ZTCzjCbhx
— ANI (@ANI)Jadeja's family, including his sister Naina Jadeja and father Anirudhsinh Jadeja, also participated in the electoral process. In the third phase of polling, 25 out of the 26 parliamentary seats in Gujarat are contested, with BJP securing the Surat seat uncontested. In Jamnagar, BJP's incumbent MP Poonamben Maadam faces competition from Congress' JP Marayviya. Across 11 states and union territories, 93 Lok Sabha seats are up for grabs in this phase.
The Lok Sabha elections, spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, will culminate in vote counting on June 4. Meanwhile, Jadeja gears up for the ICC T20 World Cup as part of India's 15-member squad. India initiates their T20 World Cup journey against Ireland on June 5, followed by a showdown with Pakistan on June 9, both matches set to take place at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. Subsequent matches against the USA and Canada are scheduled for June 12 and 15, respectively.
Last Updated Dec 23, 2021, 3:54 PM ISTExcitement mounts as cricket fans eagerly await the T20 World Cup 2024, and now they can show their support for Team India in style with the release of the official jersey. Offered by kit sponsor Adidas, this new jersey is creating a buzz among supporters, providing an opportunity to be part of the action from the comfort of home.
Excitement is brewing as the T20 World Cup 2024 draws near, and fans can now show their support for Team India by donning the brand-new jersey. Released by kit sponsor Adidas, the official T20I jersey has sparked a frenzy among supporters, with its sleek design and iconic blue colour winning hearts across social media platforms.
5,999 INR IS THE PRICE OF INDIA'S NEW JERSEY. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/Ukecaylvks
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra)Available for purchase at Rs 5,999, this jersey allows fans to immerse themselves in the tournament's fever from the comfort of their homes. While opinions on the design vary, there's no denying the pride that comes with representing the nation's cricketing prowess.
Set to kick off on June 2 in the USA and the West Indies, the T20 World Cup promises thrilling matchups and intense competition. India's journey begins on June 5 against Ireland, with skipper Rohit Sharma leading the charge.
With 20 teams vying for glory across three venues in the United States and six in the Caribbean, anticipation is at an all-time high. The tournament's inaugural matches will take place in the USA, featuring ten teams battling it out in cities like Lauderhill, Dallas, and New York.
As fans gear up to witness cricketing excellence on the global stage, Team India's squad boasts a formidable lineup, including the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah. With such talent at their disposal, India is primed to be a frontrunner for the coveted title.
Don't miss your chance to be a part of the action - grab your Team India jersey today and show your unwavering support as they strive for T20 World Cup glory.
Last Updated Dec 23, 2021, 3:54 PM IST