All posts by Sumana Rao

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Ways How Guided Imagery Helps Body And Mind

Ways How Guided Imagery Helps Body And Mind

Guided imagery therapy involves four stages:

1.       Image generation

2.       Image maintenance

3.       Image inspection

4.       Image transformation

Guided imagery operates and helps in diverse ways to achieve our goals to lead a healthy life.

Relaxation: Guided imagery sessions often begin with relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. This helps calm the body and mind, making it easier to focus and enter a receptive state.

Visualization: Once relaxed, the facilitator or recording guides the individual through a series of descriptive prompts designed to evoke specific mental images and sensations. These images can involve scenes from nature, imaginary landscapes, or healing processes. The goal is to engage the senses and make the experience as vivid and immersive as possible.

    Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1059747 (CC0 public domain)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 18, 2025
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Guided Imagery Therapy A Relaxation Technique

Guided Imagery Therapy A Relaxation Technique

Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves using mental imagery to create positive sensory experiences and allows a person to daydream to feel better. It typically involves a facilitator or a recording guiding the listener through a narrative or script designed to evoke specific mental images. These images can be of peaceful scenes, healing processes, or positive outcomes.

Guided imagery works by engaging the mind’s natural ability to create mental images and sensations. It helps by leveraging the mind’s capacity for visualization and imagination to promote relaxation, emotional healing, stress reduction, and overall well-being. It is a versatile and accessible technique that can be used on its own or in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches.

Ways How Guided Imagery Helps Body And Mind – Click to know more

Ways How Guided Imagery Helps Body And Mind

Encouraging Sensory Engagement And Emotional Healing – Click to know more

Encouraging Sensory Engagement And Emotional Healing

Body Response, Practice And Goal Preferences – Click to know more

Body Response, Practice And Goal Preferences

Clarity Of Goals, Stress Reduction And Improved Focus – Click to know more

Clarity Of Goals, Stress Reduction And Improved Focus

Steps For Self-Guided Imagery Technique – Click to know more

Steps For Self-Guided Imagery Technique

Where guided imagery used – Click to know more

Where guided imagery used

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1192085 (CC0 public domain)

References:

·         https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/

·         https://www.verywellmind.com/

·         https://www.goodtherapy.org/

·         https://www.cancer.gov/

·         https://www.cancer.gov/

·         https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Tips to for aging gracefully

The Definition Of Aging Gracefully

Aging gracefully refers to the concept of embracing the natural aging process with acceptance, positivity, and adaptability. It encompasses taking care of oneself physically, mentally, and emotionally as one grows older, while also maintaining a positive outlook and attitude towards the changes that come with aging.

How one can age gracefully and what are the key factors that make one look young?

  • Physical health: This involves staying active, eating well, and taking care of your body through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and proper nutrition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent age-related health issues and promote overall well-being.
  • Mental health: Keeping your mind engaged and sharp is essential for aging gracefully. This can include learning new things, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and staying socially connected with friends and family. Mental stimulation helps prevent cognitive decline and promotes emotional resilience. Engage in mentally stimulating activities such as reading, puzzles, or learning new skills to keep your brain sharp.
  • Emotional well-being: Aging gracefully involves accepting the natural changes that come with age, such as changes in appearance or physical abilities. It is about maintaining a positive self-image and finding fulfillment in new experiences and relationships.
  • Self-care: Taking time for self-care is crucial for aging gracefully. This includes engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, spending time in nature, or pursuing creative outlets.
  • Adaptability and resilience: Being adaptable and resilient in the face of life’s challenges can contribute to a youthful mindset. This means being open to change, whether it is in our physical abilities, lifestyle, or circumstances. Those who embrace change and maintain a sense of curiosity and wonder tend to stay youthful.
  • Gratitude: Cultivating a sense of gratitude for life’s blessings and experiences can contribute significantly to aging gracefully. Appreciating what we have, and the wisdom gained from life’s journey can enhance our overall well-being.
  • Manage stress: Chronic stress can accelerate aging. Managing stress effectively through practices like meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques can positively impact both physical and mental health, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
  • Stay socially connected: Maintaining social connections and staying engaged with family and friends can contribute to happiness and a sense of purpose. This social interaction can also help keep them mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can accelerate aging and contribute to various health problems.
  • Keep Learning, develop hobbies: Stay curious and continue to learn throughout your life. This can keep you engaged and enthusiastic about life. Engaging in hobbies and interests that bring joy and fulfillment can contribute to a youthful spirit. Whether it is gardening, painting, dancing, or traveling, staying active and enthusiastic about activities can keep grandmothers feeling young.

Genetics plays a significant role in looking young. Some individuals naturally have genes that contribute to a more youthful appearance as they get older. Others who do not have that privilege can make that happen by taking care of their skin, healthy diet, staying active, getting sufficient quality sleep, staying hydrated and by developing a cheerful outlook towards life.

  • Skincare routine: Taking care of the skin is important for maintaining a youthful look. This may involve using sunscreen daily, moisturizing regularly, and possibly using anti-aging skincare products that suit their skin type.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and maintain skin health.
  • Cheerful outlook: A positive outlook on life can contribute to a youthful appearance. Those who maintain a cheerful outlook tend to radiate energy and enthusiasm, which can make them appear younger.
  • Maintain a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Proper nutrition is essential for overall health and can contribute to healthy aging.
  • Stay active: Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Aim for a mix of aerobics, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
  • Get sufficient sleep: Quality sleep is important for your body’s repair and rejuvenation processes. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

Aging gracefully is not about denying the challenges of aging but rather about approaching them with a positive mindset and a proactive approach to self-care. While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices and mindset can also significantly impact how someone ages. Aging gracefully means it is also about celebrating the richness of life at every stage and finding beauty and fulfillment in the process of growing older.

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/774388  CC0 Public Domain (uploaded 02/20/2017)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Hip ache during menopause

Ladies, Hip Pain During Menopause Could Be Due To Gluteal Tendinopathy

Gluteal tendinopathy also known as Hip Bursitis in women can be more prevalent or problematic during menopause due to hormonal changes that affect the tendons and overall musculoskeletal health. Menopause typically leads to a decrease in estrogen levels, which has several implications for tendon health and musculoskeletal function.

Hormonal influence during menopause:

Estrogen’s role: Estrogen has a protective effect on tendons and ligaments, helping to maintain their strength and flexibility. Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can lead to decreased tendon resilience and increased susceptibility to injury and degeneration.

Collagen production: Estrogen influences collagen production, a key component of tendons. Lower estrogen levels can reduce collagen synthesis, compromising tendon strength and healing capacity.

Factors contributing to gluteal tendinopathy during menopause:

  • Tendon degeneration: Reduced estrogen can accelerate tendon degeneration, making tendons more prone to tendinopathy.
  • Weight gain: Menopause is often associated with weight gain, which can increase the load on the hip tendons, contributing to the development of tendinopathy.
  • Reduced physical activity: Hormonal changes can lead to decreased energy levels and motivation for physical activity, which can result in muscle weakness and poor tendon health.
  • Joint stiffness: Menopause can be associated with joint stiffness and reduced flexibility, contributing to altered biomechanics and increased tendon stress.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of gluteal tendinopathy during menopause are similar to those experienced at other times and include:

  • Pain and tenderness on the outside of the hip
  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
  • Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
  • Reduced hip range of motion and stiffness

Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis and treatment for gluteal tendinopathy during menopause follow similar protocols as at other times but may require additional considerations regarding hormonal health.

Diagnosis:

  • Clinical evaluation and physical examination
  • Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI
  • Functional assessments of hip strength and biomechanics

Treatment:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For some women, HRT may help mitigate the effects of reduced estrogen on tendon health. This should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Physical therapy: Focused on strengthening the hip abductor muscles, improving flexibility, and correcting biomechanics. Specific exercises may include clamshells, side-lying leg lifts, and hip bridges.

Pain management: Use of NSAIDs to manage pain and inflammation.

Activity modification: Reducing or modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms.

Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.

Corticosteroid injections: May be considered in cases of severe pain and inflammation.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive treatment to promote tendon healing.

Prevention of Hip Bursitis:

Regular exercise: Maintaining a regular exercise routine that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and aerobic activities.

Healthy weight: Managing weight through diet and exercise to reduce stress on the hip tendons.

Biomechanical assessment: Working with a physical therapist to assess and correct any biomechanical issues.

Nutritional support: Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients that support tendon health, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and calcium.

With appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications, most women with gluteal tendinopathy during menopause can achieve significant improvement and return to their normal activities. However, ongoing management may be necessary to address the underlying hormonal changes and maintain tendon health.

References:

https://www.hss.edu/

https://www.sports-injury-physio.com/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/

Gluteal Tendinopathy – Sportdoc London

Image credit: Image by Arpit from Pixabay (Published dateJanuary 20, 2022, Free for use under the Pixabay Content License)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Ear pain in children

Reasons For Ear Pain In Children And Solution

Ear pain in children can have various causes, and it’s essential to identify the underlying reason to provide appropriate treatment.

Here are some common reasons and solutions for ear pain in children:

Ear infections (otitis media):

Cause: Bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear.

Symptoms: Ear pain, fever, irritability, difficulty sleeping, pulling at the ears.

Solution: Consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, while viral infections may require pain management and monitoring.

Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa):

Cause: Infection of the outer ear canal, often due to water exposure.

Symptoms: Ear pain, redness, swelling, discharge, itching.

Solution: Keep the ear dry, avoid swimming until healed, and use prescribed ear drops to treat the infection. Consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Earwax buildup:

Cause: Accumulation of earwax (cerumen) in the ear canal.

Symptoms: Earache, sensation of fullness in the ear, hearing loss.

Solution: Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal. Consult a healthcare provider for safe removal of excessive earwax.

Foreign objects:

Cause: Small objects (e.g., beads, food, insects) lodged in the ear canal.

Symptoms: Ear pain, discomfort, hearing loss.

Solution: Avoid attempting to remove the object yourself. Seek medical attention immediately for safe removal by a healthcare professional.

Allergies:

Cause: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, etc., causing inflammation.

Symptoms: Ear pain, itching, congestion, runny nose.

Solution: Identify and minimize exposure to allergens. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate allergy management, which may include antihistamines or allergy shots.

Teething:

Cause: Eruption of new teeth can cause referred pain to the ears.

Symptoms: Ear discomfort, increased drooling, gum swelling.

Solution: Provide teething toys, chilled teething rings, or over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by a pediatrician to alleviate discomfort.

Injury or trauma:

Cause: Accidental injury to the ear or head trauma.

Symptoms: Ear pain, bleeding, bruising, dizziness.

Solution: Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment will depend on the severity of the injury and may include pain management and wound care.

Always consult a healthcare professional or pediatricians for proper diagnosis and treatment of ear pain in children. Avoid using ear drops or medications without medical advice, as improper use can worsen the condition.

Image credit: Towfiqu barbhuiya https://www.pexels.com/photo/girl-covering-ear-11211054/ (CC0 public domain)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Kisan know AI device

Kisan Know Device Costing Rs. 85 Help Farmers To Detect Crop Disease In Advance

An invention that detects diseases in plants in advance is helping farmers to save their crops and livelihood! Developed by Odisha innovator Rishikesh Amit Nayak and his teammates from VIT‑Chennai, Kisan Know is an AI-powered loT device costing just ₹85 (~US $1) that detects and even predicts crop diseases up to 12 days in advance.

How does Kisan Know works? It uses a thermal sensor plus AI to spot subtle heat changes in plant leaves—signaling microbial infection before visible damage appears. All microbes and pests have thermal traces. Infected leaves also exhibit heat traces due stress created by hormonal and water. This thermal data captured by satellite imagery and scan is taken by field workers every 12 hours. AI helps in analyzing data and detecting diseases, identifying pests, and offering precise solutions.

What made Nayak invent Farmer Know?

Together with his college mates Niharika Haridas and Gideon Jacob, Nayak created Kishan Know. It is an AI-based intelligence system that helps farmers combat microbial and pest attacks.

Nayak is a student from VIT Chennai. His personal experience of growing up in Repur Patna, a farming village on the banks of the Mahanadi in Odisha made him work on this invention. Rishikesh Nayak’s grandfather was a farmer and Nayak saw him depressed every time there was a crop failure. This made him delve deeper into understanding the reasons behind crop failures.

How do farmers use Kisan know? Simple and straightforward steps!

  • Farmers carry the device to fields.
  • Thermal and environmental data collected by field workers every 12 hours.
  • AI analyzes patterns and flags problem areas—pinpointing which crops, where, and why.
  • Alerts are given early enough for timely treatment.

Farmer know is a revolutionary device because-

  • Ultra‑low cost ₹85-    Accessible to small‑scale farmers
  • Early detection-Up to 12 days before symptoms show.
  • AI-driven- Accurate identification of disease or stress causes
  • Scalable-Over 3,000 farmers already use Farmer know.

Impact and validation:

  • Prompting action before crop failure means significant yield protection.
  • Device developed by Nayak in response to local tragedies: After losing four fellow farmers to suicide, Rishikesh Nayak built Kisan Know.
  • Earned recognition through Intel’s OpenVINO festival and media coverage by platforms like The Better India, LinkedIn, and more.

How can farmers access this device?

Since it is early-stage and community-driven: Farmers can connect with local agriculture extension cells or cooperatives in Odisha. Meanwhile, watch for pilots or NGO-supported local rollouts. Follow updates from developers -Rishikesh’s university or Intel partnerships -on broader availability.

Do you know there are other AgriTech tools that help farmers in diverse ways?

  • Nano Ganesh: Enables remote control of irrigation via mobile phone.
  • Kisan e‑Mitra: An AI voice‑chatbot assisting farmers with scheme details in 11 regional languages.
  • Other AI models helping farmers are: E‑NAM, PM‑KUSUM, Fasal Bima, etc., supporting markets, solar pumps, and crop insurance.

Kisan Know demonstrates how cutting‑edge tech—thermal imaging, satellite data, AI—can become affordable and lifesaving. It empowers small and marginal farmers to act early, reduce crop loss, and potentially save livelihoods.

References:

  1. https://www.instagram.com/thebetterindia (and image credit)
  2. https://yourstory.com/2021/12/student-team-help-farmers-combat-microbial-pest-attacks-ai (and image credit)
  3. https://swarajyamag.com/ideas/on-kisan-divas-tracking-a-new-trend-in-agriculture-rise-of-the-techno-farmer
  4. https://www.greyb.com/blog
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 9, 2025
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Blood clot relief

What Is Blood Clot Thrombosis? Reasons And Prevention

Do you sit for prolonged time? Do you travel a lot or do you move less and leading a sedentary life? Then you must also be aware of blood clot in your blood vessels that could be fatal. A blood clot is a gel-like mass formed by platelets and fibrin in the blood to stop bleeding. This is a normal, life-saving process when you are injured. But when clots form inappropriately inside blood vessels, they can be dangerous or even life-threatening.

What is the blood clot condition?

The medical term for abnormal or dangerous blood clotting is thrombosis. This can occur in:

  • Veins -Venous thrombosis
    • Most commonly: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) a clot usually in the legs.
  • Arteries-Arterial thrombosis
    • It can lead to heart attacks or strokes if blood flow is blocked.

What happens if a clot breaks off and travels in body? This can lead to

  • Pulmonary embolism (PE) – when a clot lodges in the lungs.
  • Stroke – when a clot blocks blood flow to the brain.
  • Heart attack – when a clot blocks a coronary artery.

Why do blood clots form abnormally?

Clots form due to a combination of three main factors (called Virchow’s Triad):

  1. Stasis (slowed or reduced blood flow)
  2. Endothelial Injury (damage to the blood vessel lining)
    • From trauma, surgery, smoking, or chronic inflammation.
  3. Hypercoagulability (increased tendency of blood to clot)
    • Due to genetics, dehydration, age, hormonal changes (like birth control or pregnancy), cancer, or certain medications.

Symptoms of a blood clot

In the legs (DVT):

  • Swelling (usually one leg)
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Red or discolored skin
  • Warmth over the area

In the lungs (PE):

  • Sudden shortness of breath
  • Chest pain (worse with deep breaths)
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Coughing (possibly with blood)

In the brain (stroke):

  • Sudden numbness, weakness (especially on one side)
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Vision problems
  • Severe headache

Health tips to reduce the risk of blood clots:

1. Stay well hydrated: Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily. Limit sugary and caffeinated drinks that may dehydrate.

2. Move regularly: Take breaks to stretch and walk every hour, especially on flights or long car rides. Daily moderate exercise (like walking or yoga) promotes good circulation.

3. Eat a heart-healthy diet: Include-

  • Leafy greens (kale, Amaranthus, fenugreek, spinach – but monitor if on blood thinners).
  • Omega-3 rich foods (flaxseeds, walnuts, chia seeds).
  • Berries and citrus fruits – rich in antioxidants.
  • Garlic and turmeric – natural blood-thinners.

 4. Avoid smoking: Seek help to quit if needed. Smoking damages blood vessels and thicken blood.

5. Manage stress: Chronic stress can elevate clotting risk. Try meditation, deep breathing, or journaling.

 6. Maintain a healthy weight: Reduces strain on your circulatory system.

 7. Regular health checkups: Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose. If you have a condition like AFib, DVT, or diabetes, follow your doctor’s plan closely.

8. Be aware of medications: If taking hormone therapy, birth control, or certain cancer drugs, discuss clotting risks with your doctor.

9. Prevent travel-related clots: Wear compression stockings on long trips. Stay active and hydrated.

Why is it important to act fast? Blood clots can block blood flow to vital organs, causing permanent damage or death if not treated quickly.

Image credit: www.cdc.gov https://www.cdc.gov/blood-clots/media/images/Testing_and_Diagnosis.jpg

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: June 4, 2025
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