Vrata-Foods Eaten During Fasts And Shravan Mahina
July 28, 2008
Vrata or fasting is a part of Hindu living. There are many reasons for fasting. Some look at fasting from spiritual aspect while others are concerned about their health. Living on fruits and water for a day has now become the new fad diet called the detox diet. Our sages and seers for centuries did Tapasya (meditation under extreme conditions) and lived all their life on milk and fruits. This was to gain steady focus of the mind and senses but this has very little or no significance to the new generation.
Many fast during festivals in order to fulfill their wishes and desires. Popular fasts are Solah Somvar Vrata or 16 Monday fast. This is done to appease Lord Shiva. Pradosham or Pradosha Vrata is again dedicated to Lord Shiva. Different fasts are observed differently according to one’s culture and state. Young women fast to appease Goddess Santoshi on Fridays so that they get desirable husbands.
Besides appeasing Lord Shiva, people also observe fasts to please Lord Shani. It is also known as Sampat Shanivara done during the month of Shravan. Those who have complications in their birth chart due to the planet Saturn make sure that they are able to complete this fast correctly.
The Chaturmas Vrata and Shravan Mahina Vrata are commonly followed. This is because people have made it flexible to suit their requirements and lifestyle. Shravan Somvar Vrata denotes the Monday which falls in the holy month of Shravan. This is observed by the devotees of Lord Shiva. To understand the significance of Shravan Mahina, read our previous post.
During the month of Shravan, people avoid eating non-vegetarian food, while others eat one meal a day and refrain from eating onion and garlic. Onions and garlic are known to stimulate and heighten the senses and act as aphrodisiac. Many eat food devoid of salt. Some fast the entire month, eating fruits, roots, tubes, milk and milk products and avoiding all forms of grains.
Vrata or Upwaas is a means to discipline the mind and body. Upwaas literally means to live at a higher level or to gain closeness to God. It is up to each individual how they want to fast and their reasons behind fasting-for material enrichment or for spiritual guidance.
©Nayna, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
Teeth Whitening With Natural Foods
July 24, 2008
Teeth whitening powders, pastes and gels are available in every supermarket shelf. But do they really work? Some do, but they are chemically processed. They get absorbed easily with the saliva and can have side effects. Most teeth whiteners have bleach that cause detrimental havoc to the liver and digestive track. But still many indulge in them because they want a pearly white smile.
Teeth whitening can also be achieved with natural foods. These foods also enrich the body with essential nutrients and provide wellness. Their process is comparatively slower than the harsh chemicals but it is safe and healthy.
How To Enhance Teeth Whitening With Natural Foods
Drink Green Tea-This really works against plaque. Its antioxidants wash the plaque away that stick to the teeth thus reducing the chances of developing cavities and gum diseases.
Use Straw-Drinking juices containing citric acid can erode tooth enamel. But when a straw is used, the contact with teeth is minimal.
Vitamin C-Diet lacking in Vitamin C can affect the gums. Research confirms that those who lack vitamin C in their diet, 25% of them are likely to suffer from dental problems.
Calcium Strengthens-Diet rich in milk and milk products like cheese, yogurt strengthens teeth. It provides power to the jaw’s alveolar bone.
Apart from diet, regular maintenance of teeth and gums are needed. Avoid smoking, drinking colas, tea and coffee too much which stains teeth. Daily brushing, flossing, gargling is recommended. Visit your dentist periodically so he can check your teeth and keep you free from cavities and tooth decay.
Naturally look teeth are more attractive than bleached ones. These fade away and need to be redone every few months. Such chemicals not only affect the enamel but they are absorbed directly in the body. Their effects may not be noticeable instantly but over a period of time, they will impair the liver, kidneys and gall bladder.
The whiteness of your teeth is in your mind.
©Nayna, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
Lemon For Detoxification, Digestion And More
July 20, 2008
Lemon tickles our palate and lemon juice sure knows how to refresh and hydrate the body on a hot summer day. Lemon and its juice have immense benefits that enhance the overall functioning of the body. Let us understand how:
Lemon Helps In Digestion: The fragrance and the citrus fragrance make our mouth water. This is saliva, the digestive fluid which gets into action even before we put the food in the mouth.
Lemon Aids In Constipation: It acts as a cleanser, washing and clearing the system. With an addition of salt it acts as an excellent purgative.
Lemon Works Well In Peptic Ulcer: Apart from abundant proportions of Vitamin C that lemon contains, it also has special compounds called flavonoids that have anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-biotic and detoxifying properties. These in turn help in the healing of peptic and oral ulcers.
Lemons Helps In Respiratory Disorders: Flavonoids, other oils and the presence of Kaempferol are extensively used in anti congestive medicines such as balms, vaporizers and inhalers.
©Nayna, 2007-2008. All Rights Reserved.
