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17 Best Homemade Hair Oils For Faster Hair Growth

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17 Best Homemade Hair Oils For Faster Hair Growth

Homemade Hair Oils For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Ever gotten tired of your mother asking you to oil your hair? Well, turns out, you should have listened to her! An easy and effective solution for all your hair-related problems is – no surprises here – oiling your hair. Factors like pollution, stress, erratic lifestyle, and diet, among others, have contributed to several hair problems. Additionally, if the hair products you use are loaded with chemicals, that also leads to hair damage.

The best way to deal with this is to oil your hair at least twice a week. Yes, you heard it right. Oiling works wonders on your hair if followed religiously. “According to Ayurveda, the scalp is composed of different energy relieving points called marmas. Oiling the hair and scalp acts as a rejuvenation exercise and removes any excess dosha that has accumulated in the head region, releasing the stress and thereby restoring the balance,” says Dr. Partap Chauhan, Director, of Jiva Ayurveda.

He adds that apart from helping with rejuvenation oiling also strengthens the hair from the roots to the tips, providing nourishment on the whole. Get your hands on these natural ingredients and add them to your hair oil and get an instant fix from hair fall to dandruff.

How To Oil Your Hair Infographic

1. Coconut oil

Coconut Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Coconut oil can be used as a hair mask and leave-in treatment to help hydrate and seal hair. Regular application also helps in preventing dandruff, split ends, and hair breakage. The oil helps protect the hair from external damage like pollution, heat, smoke, etc. Including coconut oil in your hair care routine may aid in the growth of longer, healthier hair.

Expert Tip: Coconut oil is good not just for the hair but also for the scalp.

2. Onion Oil

Onion Oil For Faster Hair Growth

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Onion oil is a proven remedy to boost hair regrowth and prevent breakage. The high sulphur content in onions helps in treating many hair issues. It also maintains the regular pH level of the hair, thus preventing premature greying.

How To Make: Chop some onions and curry leaves. Blend them to a fine paste. Add coconut oil to this paste and heat the mixture on a low flame. Increase the flame after five to 10 minutes and let this come to a boil. Lower the flame for 15 minutes and then turn off the heat. Set this mixture aside overnight. Strain the oil using a sieve and store the oil in a suitable container.

Expert Tip: Onion oil reduces hair fall and aids hair growth by nourishing the follicles. It is very effective in preventing and treating baldness.

3. Almond oil

Almond Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Applying almond oil helps in the shine and softness of the hair. The oil is rich in antioxidants that help fight environmental issues and delay the ageing process for hair. Additionally, almond oil can be used to cure a flaky scalp. A small amount of almond oil applied directly to the scalp stimulates blood flow to the area and delivers potent antioxidants to the scalp’s surface.

Expert Tip: The hair smells great after applying almond oil.

4. Mint Oil

Mint Oil For Faster Hair Growth

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Increasing circulation with a vasodilator like mint oil aids in hair growth and prevents hair fall. It also leaves a fresh fragrance on your hair.

How To Make: Roughly crush some mint leaves using the back of a spoon. Place the crushed mint leaves in a jar with almond oil and leave the jar in sunlight for two to three days. Strain the oil and it is ready to use.

Expert Tip: This mint oil is antimicrobial in nature, which helps in reducing dandruff and keeps the scalp cool and clean.

5. Herbal Oil

Herbal Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Tulsi and neem help in curing scalp problems and reducing hair loss. The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of these ingredients help heal and soothe an itchy scalp and prevent dandruff.

How To Make: To prepare this oil, you need coconut oil, fresh tulsi and neem leaves along with fenugreek (methi) seeds in equal proportion. Crush them well, boil and strain the mixture. Store it in a jar.

Expert Tip: This oil helps with hair growth, prevents dandruff and dryness and nourishes the hair.

6. Lemon Oil

Lemon Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Citric acid is known for preventing hair follicles from getting weaker, thus reducing hair fall. It unclogs the pores in the scalp, thereby reducing dandruff.

How To Make: To make this perfect herbal remedy for your hair, you need to grate the lemon’s outer layer (zest). Mix it well with olive oil. Leave it in the sunlight for a few days. Strain and your herbal oil are ready.

Expert Tip: Be gentle when applying this oil to the scalp. Do a patch test before you apply this oil as this might also lead to adverse effects if it doesn’t suit your scalp.

7. Hibiscus Oil

Hibiscus Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Hibiscus is widely accepted for hair growth and is often used in herbal hair oils. The weekly usage of hibiscus oil strengthens the roots and prevents breakage.

How To Make: To prepare this oil, you need about eight hibiscus flowers. Grind them into a fine paste. Add the paste to a bowl and heat it with coconut oil, until the oil changes color. Turn off the heat and cool the mixture. Strain the oil and store it in an appropriate container. Your hibiscus oil is ready to use.

Expert Tip: Hibiscus oil nourishes the scalp and improves blood circulation. It also rejuvenates the scalp and increases hair growth by preventing hair loss.

8. Curry Leaves Oil

Curry Leaves Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Rich in antioxidants, curry leaves help to strengthen the hair roots, curbing hair loss. The antibacterial properties keep dandruff at bay.

How To Make: Heat a cup of coconut oil with a handful of curry leaves in a small vessel. Using a double boiler method, heat this mixture until the oil gets coated with a black layer. Let it cool for some time. Remove the leaves and store the oil in a jar.

Expert Tip: Curry leaves are known for preventing premature greying of hair, and it reduces hair fall.

9. Black Seed Oil

Black Seed Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Black seeds (black cumin) promote good scalp health. This oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to keep the scalp clean and dry.

How To Make: Take five cups of water and two handfuls of black cumin seeds in a pot. Boil them for 10 minutes and leave the mixture to cool down. Strain the liquid and add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to it. Store in a container.

Expert Tip: Black seed oil promotes hair growth, prevents premature greying, improves scalp health, restricts hair fall and moisturises dry hair.

10. Amla Oil

Amla Oil For Faster Hair Growth

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Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is loaded with nutrients and helps in promoting hair and scalp health.

How To Make: You will need a cup of coconut oil and deseeded amla. Grind the amla without water and strain the juice into a bowl. Boil the coconut oil and amla juice in a pan for 10-15 minutes. The mixture will turn brown. Strain it into a container and let it cool. The oil is ready to be used.

Expert Tip: Amla oil helps in preventing premature greying of hair. It also stimulates hair growth and restricts hair loss.

11. Argan oil

Argan Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Applying argan oil helps to keep the hair and scalp well moisturized and the hair will be more resistant to environmental and daily stressors. Argan oil has been shown to reduce hair loss and promote fuller, thicker hair by treating the scalp and minimising breakage and split ends.

Expert Tip: Argan oil can double up as a leave-in conditioner.

12. Peppermint oil

Peppermint Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

While peppermint oil is well-known for its skin care advantages, it is also beneficial to your hair and scalp. It could assist with dryness, irritation, and other scalp issues. It also aids in increasing hair density.

Expert Tip: Do a patch test, before you include the oil in your beauty regime.

13. Castor oil

Castor Oil For Faster Hair Growth

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Castor oil’s high concentration of fatty acids and vitamin E makes it an excellent hair care product. Castor oil also aids in protein synthesis, which maintains a healthy growth and rest cycle for your hair. You’ll notice a difference in your hair’s shine and in the amount of hair loss you experience.

Expert Tip: In case you have sinuses, avoid leaving castor oil overnight on the hair.

14. Rosemary oil

Rosemary Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Rosemary oil promotes hair growth by enhancing blood circulation. Thus, it could prevent hair follicles from becoming deprived of blood flow, dying, and causing hair loss.

Expert Tip: Mix rosemary with coconut oil for better results.

15. Grapeseed oil

Grapeseed Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Grapeseed oil, when applied to hair, offers moisture, strength, and luster. Grapeseed oil is used to treat baldness naturally.

Exert Tip: Before shampooing, try massaging a few teaspoons of grapeseed oil depending on the length of your hair, into your hair and scalp.

16. Sesame oil

Sesame Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Sesame oil contains a variety of essential nutrients for the body and hair. Using this oil on your hair and scalp may promote hair growth, make it stronger, and make it appear more lustrous.

Expert Tip: Including sesame oil or seeds in your diet can improve hair health.

17. Tea tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil For Faster Hair Growth

Image: Shutterstock

Small amounts of diluted tea tree oil applied to the hair shaft will help prevent the buildup of pollutants and dead skin. This keeps your hair healthy and hydrated, allowing it to grow normally and preventing it from falling out.

Expert Tip: Tea Tree oil, when combined with coconut oil and applied on a regular basis, aids in the prevention of dandruff.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Which oil is best for hair growth and thickness?

A. Coconut oil is the go-to oil for hair. Almond oil, black seed oil, and castor oil are considered excellent for hair growth.

Q. Which ingredients should be mixed with oil for faster hair growth?

A. Hibiscus flowers and leaves help in reducing hair fall. Onion juice is considered one of the best ingredients for restoring lost hair. Aloe vera and curry leave to aid in hair growth.

Q. Is regular oiling good for hair?

A. Depending on the type of scalp, you can choose your frequency, either once or twice a week. Ideally, oil your hair the night before you plan to wash your hair.

Q. When should I apply hair growth oil?

A. Experts recommend oiling at least twice per week, preferably the night before shampooing.

Q. Can Castor Oil Actually Help Your Hair Grow?

A. There have been no studies to back up the claim that castor oil promotes hair growth, although the oil does have some qualities that are beneficial for healthy hair.

Q. Which oil is best for falling hair?

A. Coconut oil, jojoba oil castor oil and olive oil are some of the oils recommended for hair fall.

Amplify Your Hair Growth With These Homemade Hair Oils

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Amplify Your Hair Growth With These Homemade Hair Oils
Which Are The Best Homemade Hair Growth Oils And Why? 

If a satisfying hair oil massage seems like the perfect way to pamper your hair on a weekend, you’ve come to the right place! Sure, most of us have that one brand that we strictly follow, but sometimes it’s nice to just whip up a homemade hair oil for hair growth. And we did our homework, so you won’t have to spend your precious time researching the best homemade hair oil for hair growth. We have curated a list of homemade hair growth oils for you to try out. But first, let’s talk about the benefits they provide us.

  1. Curry leaves oil: Prepared straight from ingredients present in your kitchen, this oil contains antioxidants, amino acids, and the essential nutrients, which help you achieve fuller, thicker, and healthier hair.
  2. Onion hair oil: A traditionally reliable ingredient, onion oil is the easiest homemade hair oil for hair growth. Onions are high in sulphur, which helps keep the hair’s pH level balanced. You can always resort to a DIY hair growth oil like this to cure your many hair issues without causing damage to your beautiful tresses.
  3. Hibiscus Oil :This concoction is the perfect choice when looking for a homemade herbal oil for hair growth. A homemade ayurvedic oil for hair growth containing hibiscus benefits the hair in many ways. This DIY hair growth oil helps you nourish the scalp and improves blood circulation.
  4. Amla Hair Oil: This homemade ayurvedic oil for hair growth helps you treat damaged hair while the amla prevents hair from greying prematurely and restricts hair loss.

How To Make DIY Hair Oil For Hair Growth At Home?

Times are changing, and so are the habits. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the homemade hair oil recipe for hair growth. Here are a few of our favourites:

HOMEMADE HAIR OIL METHOD OF PREPARATION
Curry leaves oil
Step 1 Take seven to eight curry leaves and leave them in the sun for about two days
Step 2 Next, boil the leaves in 100 ml of coconut oil
Step 3 Then let the oil cool down
Step 4 Finally, shift the oil in a bottle, and you are all set to use it
Onion Hair Oil
Step 1 Chop three to four onions finely and extract the juice in a pan
Step 2 Mix it well with equal parts of coconut oil
Step 3 Next, boil the mixture on low flame for about 10-15 minutes
Step 4 You may consider adding a few drops of essential oil
Step 5 Lastly, transfer the oil to an air-tight container and you are ready to use it
Hibiscus Oil
Step 1 Sundry the hibiscus flowers for about a day or two
Step 2 Once dried, heat a small amount of coconut oil with flower petals in a pan
Step 3 On a low flame, heat the mixture for five minutes
Step 4 Filter the oil in a dark-coloured bottle, and you are all set
Amla Hair Oil
Step 1 Wash the Amla fruits, slice them into pieces, and leave them aside for a while to dry under the sun
Step 2 Add a few drops of Coco Soul’s Extra Virgin Coconut Hair Oil to a pan and let it boil on low flame.This chemical-free hair oil will protect your hair from damage and excess hair loss. The absence of paraben and silicone helps your scalp stay hydrated and healthy
Step 3 Heat the mixture till the bubbles start to appear
Step 4 Now, add the mixture to a bottle and use it regularly to get the best results

You may choose to add the most herbal and nutritious ingredients to your hair oil. However, coconut oil lies at the core of these exotic recipes.When you’re looking for a wholesome choice, you can always opt for Coco Soul’s organic and chemical-free, Extra Virgin Coconut Hair Oil. Prepared in the most sustainable manner, this product will help you get healthier and shinier hair in no time.

Choosing a homemade hair oil for faster hair growth might seem difficult but the above-mentioned homemade hair growth oils are just what you are looking for. However, it’s also advisable to visit your trichologist to understand your hair type and understand which homemade ayurvedic oil for hair growth  matches your hair type.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Which is the easiest homemade hair oil recipe for hair growth?

    If you’re looking for the perfect recipe for a homemade hair oil for hair growth, look no further! All of the ones given above can be easily prepared without burning a hole in your pocket. From amla, to curry leaves and onions, one can effortlessly find all these ingredients at home.

  2. Which hair oil is best for daily use?

    Even though hair oils like onion oils work wonderfully on your locks, they can just be used once a week because of their pungent odours. You can use oils prepared from curry leaves, amla or coconut oil twice a week to get excellent results.

  3. Do hair growth oils work?

    Consistency is the key to everything! Hair oils take upto six months to give you good results, depending on your hair type. However, one should indulge in regular oiling and follow a strict hair-care routine for better results.

    You noticed that coconut oil plays a major role in preparing any of the homemade hair oil for faster hair growth. But do you know why? Coconut oil is said to help you reduce protein loss and nourish your hair with the goodness of coconut. Consider adding the extra virgin coconut hair oil by Coco Soul to your homemade hair oil recipe for hair growth for nourishing results.

7 Chakras: Mystical Dimensions of the Body’s Seven Chakras

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7 Chakras: Mystical Dimensions of the Body’s Seven Chakras
Sadhguru tells us about the 7 chakras, which are the major junction points of the nadis in the body, and explores various mystical aspects of these seven fundamental chakras.

Picture of the seven chakras as lotuses with different number of petals and symbols carved in stone

Sadhguru: There is too much of “chakra talk” going on everywhere. Especially in the West, wherever you go, there are “wheel alignment centers” where they claim to “align” your seven chakras. From Yoga studios to chiropractics, everyone is talking about it these days. That has become a fad. But though everyone only talks about seven chakras, there are actually 114 chakras in the body.

What Are the 7 Chakras?

You can see them as 114 junctions or confluences of nadis. The nadis are the channels of prana in the energy body. These junctions are always in the form of triangles. They are called chakras because they embody movement from one dimension to another, and the word “chakra” means “wheel” or “circle.” But they are actually triangles.

It is these seven dimensions which are generally being referred to as the 7 chakras, which are in turn the basis for the seven schools of yoga.

Out of these 114 chakras, two are outside the physical body. Of the remaining 112, only 108 can actually be worked upon, the remaining four just flower as a consequence. The number 108 has manifested in the human system because it is a significant number in the making of the solar system. The distance between the earth and the sun is 108 times the diameter of the sun. The distance between the earth and the moon is 108 times the diameter of the moon. The diameter of the sun is 108 times the diameter of the earth. And hence, 108 is significant in various spiritual practices.

Out of these 114 chakras, two are outside the physical body. Of the remaining 112, only 108 can actually be worked upon, the remaining four just flower as a consequence.

These 112 chakras arrange themselves into seven dimensions, with sixteen aspects in each dimension. Instead of going into 112, which is too much of a number for a lot of people, generally, only seven were spoken about because of these seven categories or seven dimensions. It is these seven dimensions which are generally being referred to as the seven chakras, which are, in turn, the basis for the seven schools of Yoga.

From 112 To 7 Chakras

For a human being to live a full-fledged physical and social life, he needs only twenty-one chakras in his body to be active. These twenty-one chakras are also connected with the number seven. Because of the three dimensions of energy of Pingala, Ida and Sushumna, there are seven sets, each with three chakras functioning as one. So if twenty-one chakras are functioning, physically, psychologically and emotionally, you will be complete. But energy-wise, you will be a cripple.

For a human being to live a full-fledged physical and social life, he needs only twenty-one chakras in his body to be active. These 21 chakras are also connected with the number seven.

If other dimensions have to become a living reality, the rest of the chakras have to be activated. Intelligence has to be empowered by energy. Otherwise, a sleeping intelligence is as good as being non-existent. A computer which cannot be turned on is as good as a slab of stone. It is the same with the human system, too. This is a super computer, but most people are keeping it functioning only on the level of survival.

If twenty-one chakras are functioning, physically, psychologically and emotionally, you will be complete. But energy-wise, you will be a cripple.

If something more of what the human system is capable of needs to happen, it needs an activation. Hatha Yoga is that discipline which activates the whole system. Unfortunately, people think Hatha Yoga is an exercise or some kind of health regimen. Yoga never focuses on curing something. We only look at how this physical system can be made full-fledged. If it is full-fledged, everything will be fine. It will activate something that will lead to a curative process by itself anyway.

The Location And Names Of The 7 Chakras

The seven fundamental chakras are known as muladhara, which is located at the perineum, the space between the anal outlet and the genital organ; swadhisthana, which is just above the genital organ; manipuraka, which is just below the navel; anahata, which is just beneath where the rib cage meets; vishuddhi, which is at the pit of the throat; ajna, which is between the eyebrows; and sahasrara, also known as brahmarandra, which is at the top of the head, where when a child is born, there is a soft spot.

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Chakras have more than one dimension to them. One dimension is their physical existence, but they also have a spiritual dimension.

We can speak in terms of lower and higher energy centers, but such language is often and too easily misunderstood. It is like comparing the foundation of a building to the roof. The roof is not superior to the foundation. The foundation of the building is more basic to the building than the roof. The quality, life span, stability and security of the building depends to a large extent on the foundation rather than the roof. But in terms of language, the roof is higher, and the foundation is lower.

If your energies are dominant in muladhara, then food and sleep will be the most dominant factors in your life.

If your energies are dominant in muladhara, then food and sleep will be the most dominant factors in your life. Chakras have more than one dimension to them. One dimension is their physical existence, but they also have a spiritual dimension. This means that they can be completely transformed. For example, if you bring the right kind of awareness, the same muladhara that craves food and sleep, can become absolutely free from the process of food and sleep.

Subtler Aspects Of The 7 Chakras In The Body

These chakras have a manifestation in the body. And they also have a subtler manifestation. These manifestations are called kshetras. Kshetra means a place where someone resides. You may be in your office, but your residence is somewhere else. Just like that, there are kshetras that are external ones, called bahya kshetras, and there are internal ones called antar kshetras. There is a home and a holiday home!

These chakras have a manifestation in the body. And they also have a subtler manifestation. These manifestations are called kshetras.

When you are at home, you will be one way. Generally, the mundane occupies your time and life. Most of your time goes in cooking, cleaning, maintenance and fixing up things. When you go to your holiday home, even though there is cooking, cleaning and all the other stuff, the mundane does not occupy the whole of you. It is a more exuberant existence.

A holiday home in the mountain is a more exuberant existence, though it may be physically more taxing than being at home. Being at home is easier. Many people have given up and just stay at home because it is easier. But the reason why you went to another home away from home is you still want to know the coziness of a home, you do not want to stay in a hotel, but you want a more exuberant existence. The Creator provided for all that. You can be in the antar kshetra, not so vibrant and just sleeping, or you can be in the bahya kshetra. Any time you want to go back home, it is not a problem, you can always step back.

The second chakra is svadhisthana. If your energies are dominant in svadhisthana, pleasures will be most dominant in your life.

Chakras have more than one dimension to them. One dimension is their physical existence, but they also have a spiritual dimension. This means that they can be completely transformed. For example, if your energies are dominant in muladhara, then food and sleep will be the most dominant factors in your life. But if you bring the right kind of awareness, the same muladhara that craves food and sleep, can become absolutely free from the process of food and sleep.

The second chakra is swadhisthana. If your energies are dominant in swadhisthana, pleasures will be most dominant in your life – you seek pleasures, you enjoy the physical reality in so many ways. If your energies are dominant in manipuraka, you are a doer; you can do many things in the world. If your energies are dominant in anahata, you are a very creative person. If your energies are dominant in vishuddhi, you become very powerful. If your energies are dominant in ajna or if you attain to ajna, then intellectually, you are realized. Intellectual realization gives you peace. Experientially it has not happened yet but intellectual realization has come to you, which brings you to a certain state of peace and stability within yourself irrespective of what is happening outside of you. And once your energies hit sahasrara, you are simply ecstatic like crazy! There is no external stimulant, there is simply no reason, but you are ecstatic simply because energies have touched a certain peak.

7 Chakras, 7 Levels Of Intensity

Fundamentally, any spiritual path can be described as a journey from the muladhara to the sahasrara. This journey is an evolution from one dimension to another; these are just seven different levels of intensity.

Fundamentally, any spiritual path can be described as a journey from the muladhara to the sahasrara.

To move your energies from muladhara to ajna, there are many spiritual processes and several ways, but to move from ajna to sahasrara, there is no path. There is no particular way. One has to either jump or fall into a bottomless pit. This is called “falling upward.”

In Yoga, they say unless you are willing to fall upward, you will not get there. This is why so many so-called spiritual people have come to the conclusion that peace is the highest possibility – because they got stuck in ajna. Peace is not the highest possibility. You can become ecstatic, so ecstatic that the whole world becomes a big joke in your understanding and experience. Everything that is dead serious for everyone is just a joke for you.

To move your energies from muladhara to ajna, there are many spiritual processes and several ways, but to move from ajna to sahasrara, there is no path.

But people come and stop at the ajna for a long time, just to make up their mind to jump. This is why in the spiritual traditions, so much stress was always laid on the Guru-shishya relationship – the master-disciple relationship. This is simply because if you have to take this jump, you need deep trust in the Guru. 99.9% of the people need trust, otherwise they cannot jump. This is the reason why so much stress is laid on this relationship, because without trust, one will never take that jump.

Discernment And Intellect

These seven chakras or seven dimensions are not a philosophy, but a little bit of classification. Fundamentally, any classification of life is wrong, but this classification is done for the sake of understanding. The seven chakras are not to be understood as seven segments. Life is happening as one big whole. But the intellect needs classification. Without classification, your intellect cannot perceive. The nature of the intellect is to discern. Without the ability to discern, your intellect is a useless piece of machinery.

Enlightenment means that you are lit from inside, so you cannot see darkness anywhere.

Discernment is a very important instrument to survive in the world, but it is not at all a good thing if you want to swallow the cosmos, which means you want the cosmos to become a part of you or to disappear into you. If you are discerning, which planet would you like to leave out? Discernment is about what you want and what you do not want, what you like and what you do not like; what is good and what is bad; what is high and what is low; what is god and what is devil.

Enlightenment is when you light up everything in such a way that everything looks the same to you. You do not want to discern anything. Light and darkness are the same experience to you. There is no distinction for you. Enlightenment means that you are lit from inside, so you cannot see darkness anywhere.

Beyond Color

We are talking about a dimensionless dimension, but for the sake of the intellect, we are categorizing. You should not start taking positions, in the sense of “I’m the Anahata kind” or “I’m the Vishuddhi kind,” like people say, “I’m a coffee person” or “I’m a tea person.” Or when they wake up in the morning, they say, “I’m a morning person.” This is not about getting identified. If you want to do specific things, you can discern different qualities. But if you want to know the very nature of existence, there is a dimension called vairagya or vairaga. “Vai” means beyond, and “raga” means color. Something that is beyond color is colorless. The word “colorless” in English has negative connotations, such as being lifeless or lacking vibrance, but vairagya is not colorless in that sense.

We are talking about colorless as being beyond color. That which has no color is transparent. Transparency enables you to see. It is colorless air that sustains you. Suppose the air turned blue, you would not be able to see anymore. You may like the blue color in the air for some time, but then you would want to clear the blue and see again. Becoming colorless, or being beyond color, means to have a clear vision. Your vision is not clouded by colors. There are many things which are referred to by their color – rivers for example, such as the Blue Nile, the Yellow River, or the Red River. This does not mean the water as such is blue, yellow, or red – it is the soil that it carries that makes it appear as being of a certain color.

If you are beyond color, you fit into any place perfectly well, because you yourself are colorless, without attributes. Now, if there is a blue background, you turn blue; if there is a red background, you turn red. You will not be felt anywhere as a resistance. You are absolutely merging with whatever is there at any given moment. So we are talking about seven dimensions that are like seven colors. There is nothing wrong with refracting the light, but if you are in refracted light all the time, you will have a distorted vision of life.

The 7 Chakras – subject to much myth & lore – demystified by one with total mastery of the energy system. Watch the exciting series, Chakras, only on Sadhguru Exclusive. Subscribe now.

Micros vs. Macros: What They Are, Diets, and More

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Micros vs. Macros: What They Are, Diets, and More

Macronutrients and micronutrients are categories dietitians and nutrition experts may use to refer to your diet.

Macronutrients are big picture nutrition categories, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Micronutrients are smaller nutritional categories, such as individual vitamins and minerals like calcium, zinc, and vitamin B-6.

You may have heard the phrase “counting macros” at some point. This refers to a diet approach where a person tries to eat a certain percentage of calories from each macronutrient group.

Keep reading to find out about the research available for this dietary approach and how some people put it to use.

The beginning of each word gives you a little clue into what they may mean. “Macro” comes from the Greek word makros, which means large.

Nutritionally speaking, macros are usually measured in grams, such as grams of fat or proteins. Many macros-based diets classify macronutrients in three ways:

  • Carbohydrates: found in foods such as breads, pastas, and fruits that provide 4 calories per gram
  • Fats: found in foods such as oils, nuts, and meats that provide 9 calories per gram
  • Protein: found in foods such as eggs, fish, and tofu that provide 4 calories per gram

Note that some diets will classify alcohol as its own macronutrient that has 7 calories per gram. However, because alcohol has very little nutritional value compared to the other three categories, some diets don’t include it.

Micros are much smaller measured values in terms of nutrition. “Micro” comes from the Greek word mikros, which means small. You measure most micronutrients in milligrams or even micrograms.

There are lots of micronutrients in the foods you eat, especially fruits and vegetables that are plentiful in vitamins and minerals. Micronutrient examples include, but aren’t limited to:

  • calcium
  • folate
  • iron
  • vitamin B-6
  • vitamin B-12
  • vitamin C
  • vitamin E
  • zinc

Most macronutrient foods contain different micronutrients. However, most people wouldn’t use a micronutrient approach to dieting because it would be difficult to measure and track.

People may use different approaches in terms of daily macronutrients. For example, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans makes the following recommendations regarding macronutrient categories:

  • 45 to 65 percent of calories from carbohydrates
  • 20 to 35 percent of calories from fat
  • 10 to 35 percent of calories from protein

A person counting macros as a dietary approach would first calculate how much energy they need in the form of calories each day. Then, they would decide what percentage of calories from each food group they would eat based on their goals.

For example, bodybuilders looking to build muscle usually eat higher percentages of protein, a building block of muscle. Those who are closely watching their blood sugar may eat carbohydrates on the lower percentage because they’re trying to maintain their blood sugar.

Most scientific research regarding macronutrients involves tracking a person’s diet and breaking it down into macronutrients. This is different from asking a person to follow a certain amount of macronutrients and seeing if they lose weight or achieve other goals.

Therefore, it’s hard to say from a scientific perspective if a macro-based diet is effective or easy to follow for most people.

Several popular diets employ a macro-based approach, or a form of it. These include:

  • If It Fits Your Macros (IIFYM) diet
  • ketogenic (keto) diet
  • paleo diet
  • Weight Watchers

While some of these diets may not explicitly call themselves a macro diet, they involve eating a certain portion of each food group. Macro diets are those that emphasize portion control and eating a variety of foods instead of counting calories.

Some nutritional experts call macro diets “flexible diets” because they don’t restrict calories or foods, just guide a person as to what food types to eat more or less of.

These diets may help you reach a number of health goals, such as building muscle mass, losing weight, following a healthier diet, maintaining blood sugar levels, and more.

It’s important to note that a macro diet isn’t the same as a macrobiotic diet. The macrobiotic diet originated in Japan and is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles. It emphasizes eating simple, organic, and locally sourced foods.

Again, there isn’t a lot of research regarding a specific macro diet and its effectiveness for weight loss, weight control, or glycemic index control. Some people also argue there’s no specific macro diet, as the diet is based on the idea that macros are adjustable.

A keto diet, which is low in carbohydrates, and a low-fat diet are two macros approaches with very different-looking daily food plans.

A dietitian can work with you to determine what may be a good ratio of macros for your health goals.

Some health experts may advocate for a macro-based approach to dieting because it doesn’t restrict certain foods from your diet. No food is necessarily forbidden — it should just fit within the macro percentages you’re eating.

If you’ve tried the macros approach outlined in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans without achieving the results you desire, it may be time to talk to a dietitian or your doctor.

A dietitian or nutrition expert may recommend adjusting your macronutrient percentages based on your overall health and dietary goals.

Make sure you give your new approach time to work, usually about 2 to 3 months, before deciding you need to change your percentages again.

A dietitian or nutrition expert can also talk with you to make sure your goals are realistic and your dietary approach is safe. You want to emphasize healthy eating and consuming a balanced diet to meet your goals and physical needs.

Macronutrients and micronutrients are present in your daily diet. Some people use macronutrient counting to guide their food intake. There are many diets today that use a macro counting-type approach, but there’s not a lot of research on counting macros.

If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.

Best Natural Ways to do a Colon Cleanse at Home

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Best Natural Ways to do a Colon Cleanse at Home

A healthy colon is essential for overall well-being, as it eliminates waste and toxins from our bodies. Over time, due to poor dietary choices, lack of physical activity, and stress, the colon can accumulate harmful substances, leading to digestive issues and discomfort. While there are various colon cleansing methods available, opting for natural remedies can be a safe and effective approach. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore easy home remedies for a natural colon cleanse, helping you maintain a healthy digestive system and promote overall wellness.

What is the Function of the Colon?

The colon’s function is to absorb water and nutrients from indigestible food, process waste, and form and eliminate feces. It also hosts beneficial gut bacteria and helps regulate bowel movements and fluid balance.

Colon Cleansing–Do you need it?

According to the tenets of Ayurveda, over a period of time, toxins get to accumulate in the colon. These toxins not only deter the functioning of healthy bacteria in the colon, but they also can be the root cause of several health problems. Namely-arthritis, high blood pressure, weight gain, diarrhea, vomiting, and indigestion. Long-term problems include colon cancer, heart problems, and kidney trouble.

Benefits of Colon Cleansing

Some of the benefits of colon cleansing are –

  • Balances the doshas
  • Increases mental alertness
  • Helps in weight loss
  • Prevents constipation
  • Promotes better sleep
  • Strengthens the body
  • Improves absorption of vitamins and minerals

Effective Ways to Cleanse the Colon

Colon cleansing can be done using an enema or by colon cleaning products available over the counter. For natural and regular cleaning, we recommend a few simple home remedies that are effective and without any side effects. Listed are a few of them:

1. Hydration – The Power of Water

Water is a fundamental element for supporting colon health and facilitating natural cleansing. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day helps to soften stool, making it easier to pass through the colon. Additionally, staying well-hydrated aids in maintaining the mucosal lining of the colon, which is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Aim to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily, and consider adding herbal teas or infused water with lemon or cucumber for extra hydration benefits.

2. Fiber-Rich Diet – Nourishing Your Colon

Fiber is a cornerstone of a healthy colon, as it promotes regular bowel movements and aids in the removal of waste and toxins. Including fiber-rich foods in your daily diet is crucial for supporting colon health. Opt for whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice, as well as fruits like apples, pears, and berries. Vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and Brussels sprouts are also excellent sources of dietary fiber. Moreover, legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans provide an additional boost to your fiber intake. Nuts and seeds like almonds, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds also benefit your colon health.

3. Triphala – The Ayurvedic Elixir

Triphala, an ancient Ayurvedic herbal blend, is renowned for its gentle yet effective colon cleansing properties. Comprising three potent fruits – Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki – Triphala helps regulate bowel movements, flush toxins, and improve overall digestion. Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Haritaki possesses natural laxative properties, and Bibhitaki helps balance the digestive system. Together, they create a powerful combination that supports a healthy colon and gut. You can take Triphala as a powder, tablet, capsule, or infusion for a natural and holistic colon cleanse. Follow the recommended dosage instructions for the best results.

4. Aloe Vera – Soothing and Cleansing

Aloe vera is not only excellent for soothing skin irritations but can also support colon health. Its gel-like substance has natural detoxifying properties that aid in flushing out impurities from the colon. Aloe vera also helps soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, promoting a healthy and well-functioning colon. Mix fresh aloe vera gel with water or juice and consume it to promote a clean and healthy colon. However, note that excessive consumption of aloe vera may have a laxative effect, so use it in moderation.

5. Probiotics – Nurturing Good Gut Bacteria

Maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is essential for colon health. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help support a healthy gut flora. Including probiotic-rich foods in your diet can introduce beneficial bacteria into the colon, supporting smooth digestion and overall colon well-being. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha are excellent sources of probiotics. Consider incorporating these foods into your daily diet to nurture your gut and promote a thriving colon environment.

6. Flaxseed – Gentle Colon Cleansing

Flaxseed is a fantastic source of dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making it beneficial for colon health. When soaked in water, flaxseeds form a gel-like substance that can act as a natural colon cleanser. Mix a tablespoon of flaxseed with water and let it sit for a few hours to form the gel. Consume this mixture daily for gentle colon cleansing and improved digestive health. Flaxseed can also help relieve constipation and reduce inflammation in the colon.

A natural colon cleanse is a simple yet powerful way to maintain a healthy digestive system and promote overall wellness. By incorporating these easy home remedies into your daily routine, you can support your colon’s natural cleansing process and enjoy improved digestion and vitality.

As always, consult your healthcare provider before starting any new cleansing routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Taking care of your colon is an investment in your long-term well-being, so start implementing these natural colon cleanse remedies and reap the rewards of a healthier and happier digestive system.

Vedi Herbals: Your Partner in Natural Colon Cleansing

Vedi Herbals understands the importance of a gentle and holistic approach to colon cleansing. Our Triphala Churna is known for its mild yet effective action, ensuring your colon health is nurtured without causing harsh side effects. Whether seeking to improve digestion, relieve constipation, or support overall colon well-being, our Triphala Churna can be your natural ally in promoting a healthier digestive system.

At Vedi, we take pride in providing products of the highest quality and purity. Our Triphala Churna is prepared from the purest and most authentic fruits harvested in the forests of India. To ensure your safety and well-being, our ingredients are sourced from USDA certified Organic suppliers. You can trust that our Triphala Churna is free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, allowing you to experience the true essence of this Ayurvedic elixir.

FAQs

Q. How to make colon cleanse at home?

To make a simple colon cleanse at home, you can prepare a natural colon cleansing drink using ingredients like lemon juice, honey, ginger, sea salt, and lukewarm water. Mix these ingredients and consume the drink on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning.

Q. How to colon cleanse detox at home?

Colon cleanse detox at home can be done using natural methods like the colon cleansing drink mentioned above, increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, incorporating probiotics, and engaging in regular physical activity.

Q. How to make a natural colon cleansing drink at home?

You can make a natural colon cleansing drink by mixing 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of pure organic honey, 1/2 teaspoon of organic ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1 cup of lukewarm water. Consume this drink on an empty stomach.

Q. What is a good colon cleanse home remedy?

A good colon cleanse home remedy is the natural colon cleansing drink mentioned above. Additionally, increasing dietary fiber through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, and adding probiotics to your diet are effective home remedies for colon cleansing.

Q. How do I flush out my colon at home?

You can flush out your colon at home by drinking the natural colon cleansing drink, increasing fiber intake, staying well-hydrated, consuming probiotics, and engaging in regular exercise.

Q. What is the fastest way to flush your colon?

While there might be claims about “fastest” ways to flush the colon, it’s essential to be cautious. Quick and aggressive colon cleansing methods may have risks and can be harsh on the digestive system. A more balanced approach, such as the natural colon cleansing drink and lifestyle adjustments, is recommended.

Q. What can I drink to detox my colon?

You can drink a natural colon cleansing drink with lemon juice, honey, ginger, sea salt, and lukewarm water to support colon detoxification. Additionally, consuming plenty of water and incorporating herbal teas can also aid in the detoxification process.

Q. Is it safe to flush your colon?

Colon cleansing should be approached with caution. While some individuals may benefit from it, others may experience side effects or risks. Always consult a healthcare professional before attempting any colon cleansing method, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Q. How do you know if your colon is clean?

There is no definitive or accurate way to know if your colon is clean. However, regular bowel movements, absence of digestive issues, and a healthy diet are indicators of good colon health.

Q. Who should not do a colon cleanse?

People with certain medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or any recent abdominal surgery should avoid colon cleansing. Pregnant and nursing women should also refrain from colon cleansing. Always consult a healthcare professional before attempting any colon cleanse, especially if you have health concerns.

From root to tip: India deep dives into the ancient practice of hair oiling

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From root to tip: India deep dives into the ancient practice of hair oiling

My first memory of fragrance was the smell of camphor and coconut oil. Like every Indian home, ours too had a tradition of hair oiling with my mother’s infusion of amla, curry leaves, camphor and hibiscus flowers, cooked in coconut oil. Over the years, the oil was replaced with styling products and later, when I developed seborrhoeic dermatitis, I avoided it completely. But things changed when I cleaned up my diet and decided to give hair oil another chance. I applied the sesame-based bhringaraj oil twice a week, for short periods, and removed it with anti-dandruff shampoo. Six years later, I’ve completely eliminated the dermatitis and weaned myself off the anti-dandruff shampoo. Though my lifestyle changes helped clarify my scalp, my hair is thicker and longer with regular application of Ayurvedic oil.

The benefits

“The human body is like an upside-down tree. The head is the root, which needs to be nourished with hair oil,” says Dr Gunvant Hari Yeola, Ayurvedic physician and principal of the DY Patil College of Ayurved & Research Centre, Pune. The benefits go far beyond the realm of beauty. Acharya Charaka, the father of Indian medicine, writes in Charaka Samhita, the ancient Ayurvedic treatise: “The one who applies oil daily to the head does not get headaches, baldness, greying, and hair fall. The bones of the skull and forehead become strong, the sense organs and complexion are rejuvenated, and sleep is blissful.” Daily application is impossible in the modern world dominated by Western beauty ideals. “But you can get the full spectrum of benefits, by oiling your hair at least two or three times a week and keeping it on for a minimum of two hours,” says Yeola. If you’re not prone to cold or cough, leave it on overnight.

Image may contain Back Shoulder Human and Person

Photo: Rid Burman Hair and Makeup: Deepa Verma Model: Poojashree/ Anima Creative Management

The exceptions

“Hair oiling is great for people who don’t have dandruff or active acne,” says Dr Meghna Gupta, cosmetic dermatologist and founder, Delhi Skin Centre. “But those with scalp or skin issues, should either avoid or keep it on for no more than half an hour.” Yeola suggests that coconut oil be avoided by those who are prone to fungal infections. Instead, he prescribes dhurdhurapatradi, neem, or karanj oil, to help reduce itchiness, flakiness and hair fall. If you want to avoid oil altogether, Rajni Ohri, founder of Ohria Ayurveda, suggests massaging the scalp with fresh aloe vera gel to soothe the skin and moisturise the strands. “An alternative is to boil a teaspoon each of fenugreek and flax seeds, with a handful each of hibiscus and curry leaves, reduced and blended into a paste.” Massage on the scalp and rinse after half an hour.

The process

The biggest myth about oiling is that it increases hair fall. “But most people apply oil on a dirty scalp, therefore it tends to clog the pores, thereby weakening the roots,” explains Ohri. Because of my tendency towards dermatitis, I always oil my hair on freshly washed hair. Though this may not be practical for most people, one must apply oil on a relatively clean scalp. Massage the hair gently (not vigorously), using circular strokes, with warm oil so it penetrates deeply. If you don’t want to apply oil all over the scalp, try shiro pichu. “Soak a gauze in warm oil, place it on the crown of the head and secure it with a bandage or hair pins,” says Dr Yeola. Keep it on for 30 to 60 minutes before shampooing. “This is good to increase concentration,” he says. “Oils such as brahmi, neem, bhringraj, neelibringadi, coconut and karanj oil work well for shiro pichu.” The biggest problem with oil is the difficulty in washing it off . For this, I turn to my mother’s hack: dilute a drugstore shampoo with water and lather it up. This helps remove all greasiness in a single wash even in my waist-length hair, as the water ‘activates’ the shampoo and helps spread it all over the scalp. Despite its holistic benefits, this ancient ritual was losing significance in the modern world, which gives merit to convenience. But thankfully, the revival of slow beauty is bringing it back to its rightful place in the spotlight.

The Kama Sutra -Art Of Love, From Indian Sexuality Experts

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The Kama Sutra -Art Of Love, From Indian Sexuality Experts

Contributing Sex & Relationships Editor

Kelly Gonsalves is a sex educator, relationship coach, and journalist. She received her journalism degree from Northwestern University, and her writings on sex, relationships, identity, and wellness have appeared at The Cut, Vice, Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and elsewhere.

When you hear the words “Kama Sutra,” what comes to mind?

If it has something to do with acrobatic sex positions, you wouldn’t be the only one. However, sex positions are just one of many varied topics discussed in the ancient Indian text known as the Kama Sutra.

To understand what the Kama Sutra is truly all about, we spoke with two Indian sexuality experts about its history, misconceptions, and a few of its most noteworthy teachings.

What is the Kama Sutra?

The Kama Sutra is an ancient Indian treatise on living a pleasurable life. Though it”s most known for one of its sections that gives instructions on how to have better sexual experiences, the book isn’t predominantly about sex. It was originally written to teach young, wealthy men how to live well, and it includes instructions on a wide variety of topics, such as how to build a house, how to find a wife, how spouses should treat each other, and much more.

“You can actually say that it’s a little bit of everything,” says Varuna Srinivasan, MPH, FRSPH, a sexual health consultant and gender justice advocate. “It’s a book about how to live life and appreciate the finer things.”

The word kama translates to “love, desire, and pleasure,” according to Srinivasan. A sutra is a specific type of Indian literature, typically written in aphorisms and meant to be instructive. Therefore, kama sutra roughly translates to “pleasure manual”—though again, it’s about pleasure in the broader sense.

“It’s very much about elegance. It’s about refinement,” says Seema Anand, a sexuality educator, mythologist, and scholar of the Kama Sutra. “And I get really annoyed when we talk about positions because it’s not a book about positions.”

The history of Kama Sutra.

The Kama Sutra is thought to have been written around the year A.D. 300 by a Hindu philosopher named Vātsyāyana Mallanaga, of whom historians know very little other than his name. However, the book is actually thought to be a collection of previous texts1 that the author simply stitched together. And according to Anand, some believe that much of the book may have actually been written by women.

“He says that he took all his information from texts that were written a thousand years before, and that he’s pretty much copied and pasted the bits that he likes. He says that in his introduction,” Anand explains. According to Indian mythology, she says, some of those original texts are believed to have been written by the wife of the God of Love himself, Kama. Other stories suggest courtesans of the time paid for the book to be written, she says. Anand personally believes the famous section on sex (section two out of seven sections) may have been written by a woman because of the way it focuses so much on women’s pleasure, which was still radical at the time of its writing.

While its authorship remains shrouded in mystery, the Kama Sutra went on to become a very important and widely disseminated text across the region that later became India. According to Anand, there have been hundreds if not thousands of versions of the Kama Sutra. “Literally every kingdom across what we call India would have their own version of this written,” she explains, though she says that over time, as different cultures and different ideas of morality came into play in the region throughout history, the text gradually fell from prominence.

Then, in 1883, a British explorer named Richard Burton published a translation of the book that became massively popular across Europe and the world. “That’s when it also goes askew because a lot of it is translated pretty badly,” says Anand. Burton’s version focused heavily on the erotic themes of the Kama Sutra and specifically the sex positions, which is where today’s misunderstandings about the text stem from.

“Unfortunately, as result to Richard Burton’s translation and Western caricatures of what it means, it has now been marketed as a ‘solution’ to sexual health problems,” Srinivasan adds. “I don’t know of one Indian woman who hasn’t been accosted by a white man asking her if she can do some of the moves from the Kama Sutra. Common misconceptions are that it is a book about sex positions and that all Indians are experts in the Kama Sutra. Wrong.”

Notable teachings.

While the Kama Sutra talks about many topics, below are a few of the teachings from it related to pleasure and sexuality, according to Anand and Srinivasan:

The Kama Sutra is all about pleasure at its core, says Anand, and it emphasizes the idea that sex should always feel good for both people. “It says that if sex is to be had between two people, it should always be joyous. It should be fabulous. It should be totally mutually pleasurable; otherwise, it’s not worth it.”

She notes that the Kama Sutra never actually talks about thrusting, sexual fluids, or the physical act of intercourse in any great detail—it simply talks about ways to increase the physical sensations and erotic pleasure of sexual experiences.

Prioritize women’s pleasure during sex.

The Kama Sutra places a lot of emphasis on women’s pleasure, says Anand. “It does tell women how to pleasure the man, but sort of the focus is all about how it takes much longer for a woman to come to pleasure. You’ve got to give her that time. You’ve got to kiss her like this. You’ve got to do this to her. So it’s all about that,” she explains. “If it takes her three days to come to arousal, you spend those three days.”

One version of the text explains men must make sure their wife is fully pleasured for the good of his business, according to Anand. The logic goes: If your wife is pleased in her life and in the bedroom, she’ll support you in your work and in all your endeavors. But if she’s dissatisfied, she’ll find other lovers or spend your money or otherwise make your life miserable.

Other versions compared lovemaking to the skills of a warrior, drawing connections between sex positions and battle positions.

More broadly, Anand says a mutually happy relationship was seen as the bedrock of a healthy society. “Literally every single king of every kingdom who ever came to the throne would have [a copy of the Kama Sutra] written because they believed that if a couple were to share truly mutually pleasurable intimacy, then their relationship would be stable. And if the relationship was stable, society would be stable. And if society was stable, the kingdom would be stable,” she explains. “So the stability of the kingdom depended on the pleasure of the woman.”

3.

Penetration isn’t everything.

The Kama Sutra makes it clear that penetration isn’t the be-all and end-all of good sex. “That’s not what pleasure is all about. It’s not all about penetration,” says Anand. “Sex is not just that one thing.”

Anand notes that many non-penetrative activities are described in the Kama Sutra as being potential sources of pleasure. For example, she says the book tells men to keep drawing materials in their bedroom and to make portraits of their lover prior to sex, as a way to create moments of intimacy, eye contact, and one-on-one special time together. It also describes activities like juggling, using perfumes and jewelry, and specific types of kisses and “love bites” as key parts of intimacy.

“I think sex, for most people, is about that penetration, isn’t it? And nothing more. And for most women, that doesn’t even count as pleasurable. There’s nothing exciting about that. It’s like the least exciting thing,” Anand says. “There are so many other things to the sexual act that should be explored.”

She notes that men are instructed to make sure their female partner has at least two orgasms before he even considers penetrating her.

When it comes to penis-in-vagina intercourse, the Kama Sutra teaches that size does, in fact, matter.

“It says that, if two people are going to have sex, then one of the first criteria is that the sexual organs should match in size,” Anand explains. “If the woman is too tight, and the man is too big, it’s gonna lead to pain. And if the woman is too large, and he’s too small, there’s going to be absolutely no sensation. So the idea is that the organs should be the same size.”

This is actually the basis for why the Kama Sutra talks about sex positions so much in the first place, says Anand: It says that if two partners’ sexual organs are not matched in terms of size, they should engage in specific positions meant to help maximize sensation and pleasure (and/or minimize any sexual pain). Those are the sex positions described in the Kama Sutra.

“So for instance, if the woman is really, really big, and the man is really small, it recommends that the woman should lie on her side. She should pull her legs up a little bit. That makes [her vaginal opening] a bit smaller, [and then] the man should enter from a particular angle so that he will feel the friction against her a little bit more,” Anand explains. “That’s what [the sex positions] were originally meant for.”

5.

Pleasure can be derived from many parts of life.

Although sexuality and intimacy is a big theme throughout the Kama Sutra, the point of the book was not simply to teach people how to have good sex.

“While we think of sex when someone says the word kama sutra, what it really is about is finding self-love, being a dutiful husband/wife, and learning to appreciate the arts,” Srinivasan explains. “It teaches us to derive pleasure from inherently nonsexual activities.”

Kama Sutra sex positions.

If you are curious about some of the sex positions discussed in the Kama Sutra, here are a handful:

Indrani’s Position (Queen of Heaven)

Named after the wife of the God of Heaven, this sex position is a twist on the classic missionary that requires a bit of flexibility: The receiver lies on their back with knees drawn toward their chest in fetal position, drawing their calves as far down to touching their thighs as possible. The penetrator kneels with their thighs on each side of their partner and thrusts.

Clasping Position

In another variation of missionary, the receiver lies on their back with the penetrating partner on top, chests close together. The receiver wraps their thighs and legs around the thighs of the penetrator, “clasping” them as they thrust.

Congress of a Cow

The receiver stands on their feet and then bends over to place their hands on the ground, keeping their legs straight so they’re standing on all fours (somewhat like a cow, hence the name). The other partner then penetrates them from behind, massaging and fondling their back at the same time.

Milk & Water Embrace

The penetrating partner sits on a chair or the bed, and the receiver sits on their lap, facing away, for penetration from behind.

The Lotus

The classic lotus sex position is beloved in the world of tantric sex: It involves the penetrating partner sitting on the bed upright with legs crossed, with the receiving partner sitting on the penetrator’s lap facing them and wrapping their legs around them. In the Kama Sutra, a similar position involves the receiver lying on their back with their legs crossed into a pretzel and pressed toward the stomach, while the penetrating partner kneels over them and penetrates their exposed vagina or anus.

Suspended Position

In this difficult position, the penetrator leans their back against a wall and holds the receiving partner up by their buttocks, while the receiver hangs off the penetrator’s neck and plants their feet on the wall. The receiver then presses their feet against the wall to help them bounce on their partner’s penis or strap-on. (This position can potentially be dangerous, so be very careful if you do try it. Consider modifying it to make it easier on both parties.)

The takeaway.

The Kama Sutra offers an impressively holistic, pleasure-positive vision of sexuality for a book written nearly 2,000 years ago. But importantly, our experts stress that the book is about so much more than just sex positions. “It was just about adding refinement, elegance, variety, and keeping the passion alive,” says Anand.

If you want to learn from the Kama Sutra, Srinivasan recommends finding a modern (and accurate) translation and seeking out Indian authors with expertise in the field. “If you’re reading the book, try something new that you’ve never tried before,” they add.

When it comes to our sexuality, the biggest takeaway from the Kama Sutra is perhaps this: Sex is part of a full, healthy, well-lived life, and good sex is an endeavor worth pursuing.

Meditation to Visualize Your Goals

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Meditation to Visualize Your Goals

One of the most inspiring and powerful things you can do as a human being is to visualize what it is that you want to manifest, and then make it happen. The power of the mind is astonishing and, when coupled with mindfulness-based practices like meditation, you can increase your ability to make leaps and bounds toward creating the life you truly desire.

Goal setting is the catalyst for making this happen. The purpose of setting a goal is to achieve a desired result. When applied carefully with intention, action, momentum, and focus, setting and achieving goals gets you from where you are now to where it is you want to be. But first you have to know where that is. The “where” begins with your vision.

The first step is to start with the end in mind and work backward. The end result is your highest vision for a given area of life—be it health and fitness, relationship, family, career, or finance. Once connected with your vision, you then need to set specific goals that will aid you in actualizing the vision.

Many people mistake the goal for the vision thinking the goal is the end result. They set a goal without thinking ahead to what that goal will allow them to be, to do, or to have in the long run. To make the most out of your goal-setting process, it’s important to link it up to the quality of lifestyle you ultimately want to be living. For the purpose of creating some clarity, let’s outline the key differences between a vision and a goal.

Your Vision vs. Your Goal

Your vision isn’t something that needs to be created—it already exists within you. You just need to get in touch with it. Your vision is the big picture of your desired outcomes. It’s an internal representation of what is most important to you; it’s exciting, inspiring, compelling, and filled with positive emotions.

A goal, on the other hand, is a specifically designed milestone that requires completion if you are to get to the end of your yellow brick road. The downside is that a goal may not necessarily provoke positive emotions. Goals are simply stepping stones on the path that lead you to your ultimate destination.

A popular and effective way to set goals is to use the acronym SMART, which stands for specific (clear and precise), measurable (you can quantify or measure progress), achievable (meaning, it’s realistic), resources (you have the resources needed and you aren’t relying on divine intervention or other people), and time (there is a start and end date).

Using highly detailed, vivid imagery is an extremely powerful way to train the mind to go after—and get—what you want. Professional athletes use mental visualization to help them become more agile in their game. For example, Tiger Woods has been using visualization techniques to improve his game since he was a teenager, and World Champion Golfer, Jack Nicklaus, was quoted as having said, “I never hit a shot, not even in practice, without having a very sharp in-focus picture of it in my head.” Former NBA All-Star, Michael Jordan, used mental imagery to get into what he referred to as “the zone” to make his game-winning, three-point shots. Many public speakers practice anchoring themselves to a state of motivation prior to taking the stage in front of their audiences.

If professional athletes and stage presenters use visualization techniques to enhance their ability to be the best of the best, you too can utilize this approach to making your own dreams come true.

10 Meditation Steps for Achieving Your Goals

Try the following steps to practice a guided visualization on putting a goal into the future:

  1. Begin with an area of your life in mind. Choose an area where you have been struggling or would like to experience some transformation.
  2. Now begin to imagine the highest possible outcome that you would like to be living in this area of your life 6 to 12 months from now. Imagine living your life the way you would envision if all your hopes and dreams were to come true. What is your ultimate reality? Try not to get hung up on limitations or negativity; instead, just allow yourself to get carried away with your wildest aspirations.
  3. Next, connect with one goal you would like to achieve in the next three months. Make it a good one. If you choose a goal that doesn’t carry a lot of weight or isn’t all that meaningful, the end result (if you even bother getting there) won’t feel all that special. So be sure to choose something that is big enough that, once you’ve carried out this goal, you will be left with a high level of accomplishment and feeling super motivated to set your next goal. Run the goal through the SMART acronym to make sure it meets all the proper criteria. Then, you’re set!
  4. Now that you’ve connected with your goal, imagine what your life will be like once you have completed it. Create a picture or movie in your mind and step inside the visual representation as if you are inside it and looking through your own eyes. Adjust all of the qualities of sensory perception (taste, touch, sight, sound, smell) to create the most positive and most real feelings. Who is there with you? Where are you? What is happening around you?
  5. Next, step out of the image you’ve created and imagine floating up in the air above where you are now, taking the mental image with you. Take a deep inhale and as you exhale, use your breath to energize the image, filling it with positive energy and intention. Do this five times.
  6. Now it’s time to imagine floating out into the future and visualize dropping the internal representation of your goal down into your life below you at the date and time you’ve set for this goal to reach completion.
  7. Notice how all the events between then and now re-evaluate themselves to support you in accomplishing your goal. Visualize this process to make it feel real.
  8. Once you feel complete, come back to now and, with your eyes still closed, consider what action steps you will take in the next week to move you closer to your goal.
  9. Take a few deep breaths to ground yourself before opening your eyes. Write down your list of action steps and do any journaling about your experience.
  10. Last, you must take action and maintain your focus. Every single day, do something that moves you closer to realizing your goal and living your dream.

Do this process once a week or upon completion of your action steps so that you continue moving powerfully forward toward achieving your goal and living your vision. Seeing is believing, so use your mind to create your most compelling future.

How To Increase Collagen In Your Skin With Ayurvedic Remedies?

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How To Increase Collagen In Your Skin With Ayurvedic Remedies?

Do you dream of everlasting youthful skin? The elixir of youth isn’t a reality, but maintaining a good skincare and lifestyle regime can definitely help you achieve your beauty goals.

One of the most abundant proteins in your body, collagen is majorly found in the tendons, skin, muscles, and bones. With growing age, your body produces lower levels of collagen; the primary protein responsible for skin elasticity and strength. Aging starts slowing and impacting collagen production, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

“Collagen is a major building block of the human body. Not just your skin, collagen is important for your joints, and digestion. Together they reflect your youthfulness,” says Dr.

Let us understand the benefits of collagen for your skin, natural ways to increase collagen in your skin, and how you can prevent collagen loss. Read on.

What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a fibrous, insoluble, and hard protein which constitutes around one-third of your body’s protein composition. Its molecules are closely packed to form thin, long fibrils. The long fibrils act as supporting framework and bind cells with each other. They also provide skin elasticity and strength.

At least 16 sub-types of collagen are found in the human body. All these types have various functions and structures.However, 80-90% of collagen belongs to the three major types.

Collagen is flexible and strong in nature. The three main building blocks of collagen include hydroxyproline, proline, and glycine. The molecular structure [1] resembles a triple helix which attaches with other collagen units in the skin to form a thin layer in the dermis. Dermis is a layer of skin above the subcutaneous adipose tissue and below the epidermis.

A few sub-types of collagen fibrils are even stronger than the tensile strength of steel.

What Does Collagen Do To Your Skin?

Collagen constitutes nearly 75% of your skin’s structural framework. It is secreted by different types of cells within your body, however; majorly by cells of connective tissues.

In the middle layer of your skin, known as dermis, collagen aids in constructing a fibrous framework of cells. Known as fibroblasts, these cells help in the formation and growth of new cells. Additionally, these help in restoring and replacing dead skin cells.

With growing age, the body slows down the synthesis of collagen [2]. Also, the structural support of skin begins to decline. You begin to observe the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles along with sagging in your face.

After menopause, women begin to experience a drastic depletion of collagen in their body. By the time they turn 60, it is quite common to observe a significant drop in collagen synthesis.

What Causes Loss Of Collagen In Skin?

visual representation of skin changes over a lifetime

A few factors can influence the levels of collagen in your body. Staying away from these factors may help you keep your skin supple and healthy:

1. High Consumption Of Sugar

A diet rich in sugar over-stimulates the rate of glycation. This is a natural process in your body wherein the sugar molecules adhere to proteins to generate novel molecules known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs adversely impact the surrounding proteins and make collagen vulnerable, brittle, and dry.

2. Smoking

Harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke adversely affect both elastin and collagen in your skin. Nicotine contracts blood capillaries in the skin’s outer layers. This affects your skin’s health by minimizing the absorption of oxygen and nutrients into your skin.

3. Sunlight

The harsh UV A and B rays rapidly degrade and deteriorate collagen fibrils, increasing the synthesis of abnormal elastin.

The harmful UV rays also affect the collagen in the middle layer of your skin. When this damaged skin incorrectly rebuilds, it leads to the formation of wrinkles.

4. Autoimmune Disorders

A few autoimmune disorders may stimulate antibodies to attack and damage collagen. Genetic modifications may impact the outer layer of your skin. Collagen synthesis may be lowered, or mutated, leading to abnormal collagen.

5. Advancing Age

Advancing age results in natural depletion of collagen levels in your body. This activity is completely irreversible. Avoiding extreme sun exposure and smoking along with following a healthy diet and exercise regimen, may minimize visible signs of aging. It can help defend collagen, keeping your joints, muscles, bones, and skin healthy for a long time.

Collagen Benefits For Your Skin

Collagen helps boost your skin elasticity and smoothen out wrinkles. By taking supplemental collagen, you may experience a higher density of collagen fibrils within your skin. Additionally, it helps in retention of moisture and improves skin elasticity.

How To Increase Collagen In Your Skin?

woman's face before and after rejuvenation

By following simple and effective home and Ayurvedic remedies along with a nutrient-rich diet, you may prevent collagen loss in your skin. Follow these secrets to naturally restore and renew your skin with collagen.

A. Collagen-Rich Foods For Skin

All types and sub-types of collagen are derived from procollagen. Your body naturally synthesizes procollagen by interlinking two amino acids – proline and glycine. The synthesis of procollagen requires Vitamin C.

You may help your body to synthesize this integral protein by including these nutrients in your daily diet [3]:

  1. Copper: It is commonly found in lentils, cashews, cocoa powder, sesame seeds, and organ meats.
  2. Glycine: Large quantities of glycine are found in gelatine, chicken skin, and pork skin. However, it is also found in foods with high protein content.
  3. Proline: Large quantities of proline are found in mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage, dairy products, wheat germ, and egg whites.
  4. Vitamin C: It is commonly found in strawberries, bell peppers, and citrus fruits.

Along with these nutrients, your body also requires high grade proteins which have the necessary amino acids needed to synthesize novel protein molecules. Tofu, legumes, dairy products, seafood, poultry, and meat are rich sources of amino acids.

B. Foods To Avoid

Avoiding a few specific foods may help you maintain good skin health, thereby preventing collagen loss in your skin. To begin with, you should check on your daily carbohydrate and sugar consumption. These may lead to inflammation and harm collagen levels in your skin.

Prioritize fresh, seasonal, and mineral-rich vegetables and healthy fruits. Additionally, include protein-rich plant and animal-based foods to restore your skin’s collagen level.

C. Ayurvedic Secrets For Boosting Collagen

As per the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, a wide variety of elements determine your overall skin health, appearance, and youthfulness. These factors include:

  • Proper circulation of nutrients and blood to the different layers of your skin (balanced vata)
  • Regulation of metabolic functions which manage various hormonal and chemical processes of your skin (balanced pitta)
  • Maintenance of moisture level in your skin (balanced kapha)

The constitution of the three body tissues also reflects on your skin health. These three types of tissues include:

  • Muscle (mamsa)
  • Blood (rakta)
  • Nutritional fluid (rasa)

Ayurvedic anti aging therapy primarily involves two forms of therapies:

  • Vyadhi Hara (curative)
  • Urjaskara (promotive)

Collagen boost for Kapha: Be mindful of salt intake as kapha skin retains water. Warm oil massage and Udavrtana (rubbing dry ubtan powders in the opposite direction of hair growth) is excellent to boost collagen.

Collagen boost for Pitta: Oily food, salt and spices along with exposure to extreme sunlight is damaging for pitta skin. Use astringent and styptic herbal oils infused with chandana and lodhra are excellent for daily massage to boost collagen. Follow this with a cooling pack containing mud and mulethi.

Collagen boost for Vata: Vata skin is the worst affected by collagen loss. Abhyanga-massage followed by steam with milk, helps maintain vata skin health.

1. Ayurvedic Rejuvenation

The holistic approach of Ayurveda describes various therapeutic processes to regulate and prevent signs of aging. One such therapeutic process is panchakarma [4].

A. Panchakarma

In Ayurveda, panchakarma is considered as an efficient detoxification and rejuvenation therapy. It involves three stages:

  • Purva Karma (before treatment): This stage includes swedana (sudation) and snehana (olation) procedures
  • Pradhana Karma (primary treatment): This stage includes nasya (nasal administration), virechana (purgation), vamana (medical emesis), and basti (enema). A branch of Sushruta also recommends raktamokshana (bloodletting) as a stage of panchakarma.
  • Paschat Karma (after treatment): This stage includes vihar (exercise), ahar (diet), and administration of beneficial rasayana and various other medicines.

Nasya: Is an excellent panchakarma technique to boost facial collagen.

Udvartana & Abhyanga: Help maintain the skin tone of the body.

2. Ayurvedic Herbs

  • Tulsi: Tulsi is an effective Ayurvedic herb renowned for its efficacy in reducing visible signs of aging. It is also popular as a novel anti-aging superfood which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. When you apply tulsi on your skin, it helps in minimizing unevenness and roughness, retaining hydration and moisture in your skin, and gives you a supple, smooth texture.
  • Guduchi: Guduchi is also popularly known as giloy. This medicinal herb has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Also, it helps in renewing and rejuvenating your skin’s tissue. Along with improving your skin health, giloy also improves your mental clarity and boosts your immune system.
  • Ashwagandha: This medicinal herb has been widely used in Ayurveda for its rejuvenating values and potential benefits for your hair, skin, and general health. When you take ashwagandha daily, you will experience a glowing difference in your skin’s appearance, making it naturally radiant, clear, and supple. Additionally, the powerful herb effectively minimizes wrinkles and makes your skin firm.
  • Amla: Amalaki is a powerhouse of Vitamin C and antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties of amalaki improves your skin health by minimizing signs of aging, firming up your skin, and imparting natural glow. The beneficial herb also provides immense benefits to your hair growth, strength, and texture.
  • Haldi: Haldi is a magical herb which provides immense benefits to your skin and overall health. Starting from treating bruises and scars to boosting the immune system to alleviating chronic inflammation, or making your skin radiant and glowing, haldi is an all-rounder Ayurvedic herb. The active ingredient in haldi, curcumin, has anti-ageing properties. It helps in staving off free radicals and reduces inflammation. It also shields your skin from photooxidation damage from harmful UV A and B rays. The antioxidant properties of haldi also helps in fighting numerous diseases. Consumption and topical application of haldi offers potential benefits for your overall health.
  • Ginseng: Ginseng is a popular anti-aging herb which is extensively used in the Korean and Japanese beauty and skincare industry. The powerful phytochemicals found in the herb prevents signs of aging and boosts the metabolism of your skin. Additionally, the herb also shields your skin from free radical effects due to UV A and B rays.
  • Gotu-kola: Gotu-kola is another effective and important anti-aging herb. A rich source of antioxidants and flavonoids, gotu-kola helps in deeply nourishing your skin and boosting collagen synthesis to prevent signs of aging. It also improves your overall health and well-being.

D. Home Remedies For Boosting Collagen

making a home made turmeric face cream

Increasing your daily water intake, exercising regularly, eating a clean and healthy diet, and following a good skincare regime can help you naturally improve collagen synthesis.

You may also use a few simple yet effective homemade face masks with natural ingredients to improve your skin health.

1. Turmeric Face Mask

Turmeric has always been an integral part in traditional skincare and beauty regimes. The beneficial ingredient does wonders for your skin, giving you a naturally radiant, clear, and glowing complexion. This natural glow is achieved due to curcumin which boosts scar and wound repair by regulating collagen synthesis.

How To Use:

  • Mix a small pinch of raw turmeric in equal parts of honey and milk.
  • Apply the mixture onto your face and neck.
  • Leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with normal water.
  • Repeat the steps twice a week to witness the magical difference in your skin.

2. Papaya Face Mask

Papaya is extremely beneficial and nourishing for your skin as it prevents pigmentation, scars, and acne breakouts and smooths your skin by boosting collagen synthesis. All these benefits are achieved due to the presence of an active enzyme called pepzyme.

How To Use:

  • Add a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice into freshly made papaya pulp.
  • Apply the mixture onto your face and neck.
  • Leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with normal water.
  • Repeat the steps at least once a week for better results.

3. Avocado & Cucumber Face Mask

Avocado and cucumber are the well-balanced natural ingredients for improving your skin health. Cucumber is a rich source of Vitamin C, which protects your skin from free radical damage. It also hydrates your skin by retaining the natural moisture in your skin. On the other hand, avocado helps in deeply nourishing and moisturizing your skin due to its natural oils.

How To Use:

  • Mix half a cup of freshly extracted cucumber pulp with half a cup of avocado pulp.
  • Apply the mixture onto your face and neck.
  • Leave it to dry for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
  • Repeat the steps at least twice a week for best results.

4. Cinnamon & Honey Face Mask

Honey is an excellent emollient which helps in retaining your skin’s natural moisture content without increasing the oiliness of your skin. Additionally, it is widely used in Ayurveda for its cosmetic purposes, like smoothening your complexion, healing wounds and scars, and preventing acne breakouts. Cinnamon also helps in fighting fungal and bacterial infections of your skin.

How To Use:

  • Add equal parts of cinnamon and honey in a mixing bowl and warm it before use.
  • Apply the warm mixture onto your face and neck.
  • Leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
  • Repeat the steps twice a week for better results.

E. Topical Collagen For Your Skin

1. Collagen Supplements

There are primarily two types of collagen supplements [5] which are quite popular – gelatine and collagen hydrolysate. When collagen is cooked, it gives rise to gelatine.

Both supplements are smaller peptides. These are derived from the breakdown of larger, collagen protein. These peptide units are easily absorbed by your body.

2. Liquid

A few individuals also tend to drink bone broth that is full of collagen. Derived from animal bones, this is a dietary form of collagen. However; consumption of bone broth has not proved too many benefits for the skin.

3. Collagen Creams

Topical ointments and creams such as tretinoin and retinol are well-known to boost collagen synthesis in your skin. Also, antioxidants like Vitamin C help prevent inflammation which adversely impacts collagen synthesis.

Many dermatologists believe that the benefits of using Vitamin C or retinol-based skincare products are more effective than using a collagen-rich skincare product.

Vedix Tip: Beauty and skincare products which boast of improving collagen levels in your skin are not authentic, as the protein molecule is too large and complex to be easily absorbed through the different layers of your skin.

How To Prevent Collagen Loss In Your Face?

woman with clay face mask

Nothing can reverse the natural decline in collagen synthesis in your skin. However; there are few preventive measures which you can follow to naturally improve the collagen in your skin.

1. Regular Facial Massage

Gently massaging your skin may help improve natural collagen synthesis and muscle memory. When the tissues and muscles in your face are firm, they are better equipped to retain tightness of your skin. Also, it helps in improving blood flow into your skin which helps in nutrient and oxygen supply to the skin cells. This helps in achieving a glowing and healthy skin.

2. Collagen Creams

Collagen-rich creams and ointments also help in renewing collagen levels in your skin. But it is imperative to note that you should always use a cream which has smaller amino acids of collagen which are easily absorbed by your skin. These creams and ointments also allow your skin to remain hydrated by reducing water loss. This helps in keeping your skin smooth and supple, and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.

3. Vitamin C Skincare Products

Skincare products enriched with Vitamin C also help in improving collagen synthesis in your skin by preventing collagen loss. Additionally, it helps in boosting healthy nails, hair, and skin. In the absence of Vitamin C, your skin may not be able to restore collagen levels. This deficit leads to the loss of skin firmness and elasticity which is irreversible.

4. Diet

It is important to consume foods which are rich in Vitamin C and protein. These nutrients primarily help in restoring collagen in your skin as well as your body, and slowing down the aging process. Avoid consuming excessive sugar as it increases your insulin level. This heightened insulin level leads to inflammation which in turn breaks down elastin and collagen in your skin. This leaves you vulnerable to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

5. Stop Smoking

Smoking reduces the blood flow in your body, including your skin. This affects your skin health. It also restricts the synthesis of collagen, making your skin prone to signs of aging.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking adequate amounts of water every day will help you replenish and retain moisture content in your skin. This in turn helps the collagen in your skin to naturally bind with the water molecules, and keep your skin hydrated.

Can Collagen Be Absorbed Through Your Skin?

Despite knowing the integral role of collagen, artificially adding it in a topical skincare product is useless when it comes to anti-aging properties. Any topical skincare product enriched with collagen may be limited to just moisturizing your skin.

Topical application of collagen will never truly benefit or improve collagen growth or synthesis of your skin. This inefficiency is due to the fact that collagen molecular weight is too much to even pierce the upper layer of your skin.

However, using retinol-based products or vitamin C based products can prove useful.

The Last Word

Although a younger-looking, glowing, and beautiful skin is greatly appreciated, beauty is never skin deep. A healthy and clear skin is an imperative measure to understand how your bodily functions are performing.

Please remember that there is no sure shot way to reverse the natural loss of collagen or other visible signs of aging. Instead, you should focus on following a good skincare routine which addresses your skin type and its specific needs, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle habits.

Accomplishing Your Dream Goals – Meditation for Manifesting

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Accomplishing Your Dream Goals – Meditation for Manifesting

I don’t believe in magic. But I believe in the power of positive intent. And I also believe if you’re committed to accomplishing a goal, and are consistently looking for ways to advance this goal, and signals the world is supporting you in making it happen — that this will help to manifest your dreams.

Today I’d like to offer a powerful meditation. It’s from one of my favorite books, Into the Magic Shop. It’s written by James Doty, an acclaimed neuroscientist from Stanford University, and tells the story of a underprivileged boy from Orange County who, in a very unexpected way, learns to meditate. Specifically he’s taught how to manifest dreams he can barely believe are possible, financially and career-wise. But over time, in the book and this boy’s actual life, every goal he sets comes true.

Today I’ll share with you how to do this for yourself. If you can, try to do this for twenty minutes twice a day. I can’t guarantee this will work. But I do believe it puts you in the mindset of success. Over time you’ll begin to truly believe you can accomplish any reasonable goal you set for yourself. This meditation will also lead you to constantly be looking for ways to advance your goals, and signals you’re on the right track. This in itself is a great boost to your chances for success — because you’ll believe the world is supporting you in helping you accomplish your goals. That optimism will open up avenues for success.

So let’s begin:

Sit with your back straight and your feet flat on the ground, head pointing up to the sky or ceiling.

Close your eyes.

Stage One: Relax

The first step of this meditation is to relax your entire body, body part by body part. Start with the top of your head and relax this area, then focus on your forehead and relax this section, from the front of your head to the back and the middle, too, if you can. Then move down to your eyes, relax everything here, then your nose, below your nose, and your lips. Step by step focus on each area and relax all of the muscles you can.

You can do both arms at the same time and your legs too. Finally, relax your entire feet, from the top near your ankle all the way down to your toes.

Then scan your entire body down and up and down again, relaxing any tense areas. This should take about five minutes.

Stage Two: Focus 

Next let’s go back to the mindfulness meditation we did last month. Focus your attention on the sensation of the breath as it comes in and comes out of your nostrils. What do you feel? What do you notice? Breath in and out of your nostrils normally but focus your mind, with alertness on all of the sensations you feel as the breath comes in and out of the nostrils. This should take around five minutes.

Stage Three: Open Your Heart

Because this is such a powerful meditation, we want to make sure your goals are promoting good in the world and not evil! So for five minutes repeat silently to yourself, in your mind’s eye, “My heart is open. I open my heart. I am good, I do good and I am loved.” You can adapt this to some other phrases if they feel more natural to you, too. Some examples from the book are, “I am worthy. I am cared for. I care for others. I love myself. I love others.”

This may feel a bit ‘out there,’ but Dr. Doty writes that meditating with these phrases actually changes the physiology of our body.  When we do this type of heart-opening meditation, which helps us feel more calm, open and relaxed, the tone of our vagus nerve actually increases, and we activate the parasympathetic nervous system which, as Doty writes, “stimulates our rest-and-digest response.” This helps us be more focused,  calmer and boosts our immune system. It’s a stark contrast to how our body responds to stress, which decreases the vagus nerve tone and increases our blood pressure and heart rate. Do this meditation for fives minutes, too.

Stage Four: Manifest

Now we’re ready to start manifesting. I suggest starting with one or two goals, but you can also work your way up to more, even as many as ten!

Your goals can be to raise more money for your start-up, to pursue the career you’ve always dreamed about, to fall in love, to get along better with your team — whatever you’d like!

Let’s begin with your first goal. With your eyes closed and still in meditation, imagine what your life would look like if this goal were already accomplished. If your eyes were open, as you, with this goal having happened, what do you see? What colors? What shapes? Where are you? What are you wearing, what do you smell, who is with you? Stay with this. It may be hard at first. You might only see shapes or shadings of colors. But over time, and over days and weeks and months, the details will start to fill out. See, from your eyes as you, as much as you can about what your life looks like once you’ve manifested this dream.

After five minutes on your first dream, you can move on to the second.

These four steps are an extraordinary way to put you in the mindset of success, to look for things that will help you along this path each moment of your day, and to, really, help make your dreams reality.

After you do this meditation, please respond in the comments to let me know how it goes!

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