All posts by Sumana Rao

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Rock sugar Mishri benefits

The Many Home Remedies of Mishri Rock Sugar

Rock sugar is commonly known as Mishri or khala kane. It is also called candy sugar and is a type of crystallized sugar that is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines for its sweetening properties and potential health benefits. Mishri is extracted from sugarcane or date palm by preparing a hard confection and cooling sugar syrup into large crystals.

Difference between sugar and mishri:

Sugar is crystalline and obtained from sugar cane or sugar beet by extracting the juice from these two plants followed by heating to make it concentrated by removing water. This concentrated syrup later crystallized to make granular white sugar. The process is also uses bleaching using sulfuric acid to get white sugar which is not good for health.

Mishri, is a type of Indian sweetener made from sugar cane or date plam to form larger crystals. It could be pink, brown, or white in color and made without any chemicals. It also has nearly neutral pH and using it in moderation is good for health.

Mishri has been in use in traditional medicines and in home remedies for many conditions. Consuming mishri in moderation is suggested for common conditions.

  • Ayurvedic medicine: Mishri is used in various Ayurvedic formulations to balance doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and treat various health conditions.
  • Cough and sore throat relief: Mishri is often used in traditional remedies to soothe coughs and sore throats. It can be dissolved in warm water or milk to create a soothing drink.
  • Digestive aid: Mishri can aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and relieving indigestion and bloating.
  • Mouth freshner: Mishri is used as mouth freshener and you can see bowl of mishri kept in restaurants and in functions for this purporse.
  • Energy boost: Like other sugars, Mishri provides a quick source of energy when consumed. It can be particularly useful for those who need an energy boost during physical activities or to combat fatigue.
  • Respiratory health: In Ayurvedic medicine, Mishri is sometimes used to promote respiratory health, especially in conditions like asthma and bronchitis. It is believed to help clear the airways.
  • Skin care: Mishri is occasionally used in skincare products due to its exfoliating properties. When crushed into a fine powder, it can be used as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
  • Antioxidant properties: Some studies suggest that Mishri, like other types of sugar, may have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Stress reduction: In Ayurveda, Mishri is sometimes used as a stress-relieving agent. It improves mood and has a calming effect on the mind.
  • For vision: Mishri is source of several nutrients. It is used to improve eyesight, preventing cataract and rejuvenating eye. Click here to see the Mishri remedy for eye sight improvement.
  • For nausea: It acts an elixir and gives relief from vomiting sensation. It helps in relieving acidity. Carrying mishri during travel time is a good idea to stop travel sickness.
  • To control nose bleeding: Home remedies use mishri water to stop nose bleeding.
  • Memory power: Consuming mishri with almonds in morning is suggested to improve memory. It also energizes brain and give relief from brain fatigue.

It’s important to note that while Mishri may have some potential benefits, it should be consumed in moderation, like any other sugar, as excessive sugar consumption can have adverse effects on health, including weight gain, dental issues, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Image credit: .https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Brauner_Kandiszucker.jpg © Alice Wiegand CC by 3.0


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 24, 2023
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Fenugreek Gojju

Healthy And Delicious Fenugreek Seeds Masala Gravy Fenugreek Gojju

Fenugreek seeds (methi seeds) are highly recommended for controlling blood sugar, weight, heart health, inflammation and for improved digestion. Adding fenugreek seeds in our daily dishes will help to improve several such conditions. It is also a remedy to improve milk production in nursing mothers.

 

Ways to use fenugreek seeds – eating soaked seeds, fry and add to dishes or make powder and use when you need. Here is a fenugreek seed masala gravy, also known as methi gojju or fenugreek seeds gojju is a dish that is useful for improving digestion. You can mix this with rice and eat it, or serve as side dish with yogurt rice, chapati etc.

 

Fenugreek seeds gojju receipe

 

Ingredients:

1.       Fenugreek seeds – ¼ cup

2.       Green chilies – 5

3.       Grated coconut  -1/2 cup

4.       Cilantro/coriander chopped -1/4 cup

5.       Tamarind – small lemon size

6.       Curry leaves – few

7.       Jaggery -1/2 tsp (optional)

8.       Salt – as per taste

9.       Seasoning ingredients- oil, mustard, red chili, hing

10.   Water – about a cup

 

Preparation:

 

1.       Place a frying pan on medium heat. Add 1 tsp oil and fry green chilis for a minute or until green color changes. Remove and keep chilis aside.

2.       Add 1 to 2 tsp oil to pan, heat the oil to prepare seasoning.  To the heated oil add mustard, red chili, curry leaves and hing.

3.       Once the mustard pops, add fenugreek seeds and fry till it turns golden brown and releases aroma.

4.       Add half cup water to the mix and boil to cook fenugreek seeds.

5.       To prepare masala add grated coconut, cilantro, fried green chilis, salt, jaggery to grinder and grind.

6.       Add grinded masala to methi seeds mixture and boil. If you prefer add little more water. The consistency of fenugreek masala should be like gravy.

7.       Serve fenugreek masala gravy either hot or at room temperature with rice, chapati or bread.


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 21, 2023
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Decluttering advice

Decluttering Is Essential For Quality Life

Decluttering should be a rule of every household. Decluttering emphasizes simplicity, practicality, and the value of maintaining an organized and uncluttered living space. Decluttering should be part of your routine as it helps you to have a quality life. If you cannot declutter every day, incorporate decluttering schedules once or twice a month. After initial decluttering of the house, your efforts becomes less as you will naturally be alert what to store and unnecessary shopping or collecting. Grandmas have few rules for decluttering the house that can assist you with decluttering job.  

  • One in, one out: When acquiring a new item, consider removing an old one. This rule helps prevent accumulation and keeps belongings in check.
  • Quality over quantity: Choose well-made, durable items over disposable ones. Invest in items that will last and serve their purpose effectively.
  • Use It or lose It: If an item has been sitting unused for a significant period, it might be time to let it go. This rule helps prevent keeping items that no longer have a practical purpose.
  • Sentimental value: Keep items that hold genuine sentimental value and bring joy. Avoid keeping things out of guilt or obligation.
  • Declutter one area at a time: Tackle decluttering room by room or even one drawer at a time. Breaking the task into smaller parts makes it more manageable.
  • The six-month Rule: If you haven’t used or worn something in six months to a year, it’s likely you won’t miss it when it’s gone.
  • Clear countertops: Keep kitchen countertops and other surfaces clear of unnecessary items. A clutter-free space is easier to clean and more visually appealing.
  • Functional furniture: opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes or provides storage. This helps maximize space and reduce clutter.
  • Reevaluate collections: Regularly assess collections such as books, magazines, and collectibles. Keep what you truly love and use.
  • Paper management: Sort through mail and paperwork regularly. File important documents and recycle or shred what’s no longer needed.
  • Think twice before buying: Before purchasing something new, ask yourself if you really need it and where it will fit in your life.
  • Mindful shopping: When shopping, focus on acquiring items that truly enhance your life rather than adding clutter.
  • Gifts and souvenirs: Be selective about gifts and souvenirs. If you don’t want them graciously decline or give it to someone who is in need of it.
  • Digital decluttering: Apply decluttering principles to digital spaces, including email, photos, and digital documents.
  • Declutter before moving: When moving, take the opportunity to declutter and avoid bringing items you no longer need to your new space.

These decluttering advices reflect the timeless wisdom of grandmothers for simplifying and streamlining our lives. It helps us to focus on what truly matters. By following these advices, you can create a more organized, serene, and enjoyable living environment.

Image credit: Nicole – wardrobe declutter DSC02930 https://www.flickr.com/photos/28691409@N05/9719993749/in/photostream/ (cc by 2.0)


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 18, 2023
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Be a good guest

Being a Good Guest Does Not Cost You Anything

While visiting someone’s home one might observe many things related to the host life. Whether your visit is for a short while or staying with them for few days, there are certain things you should consider that does not hurt the host.

Employing some care and thoughtfulness, respecting the host is very important for your relationship with host. Here are few suggestions to be a good guest.

  1. Inform the host: Sometimes it can be a surprise visit, but it is always better to inform the host well in advance about your visit. You never know what the condition in their house could be and whether they are in a status to host you.
  2. Bring something: If host is available and tell you to come down, ask do you want me to bring something or anything. Host might say no. Still carry something like flowers, desserts, fruits, cut fruits, low maintenance house plant (if they fond of plants) etc.
  3. Uninvited guest: Without informing do not take uninvited guest. If you want someone to accompany you, think whether it is an intimate get-together. Will the presence of an uninvited guest changes purpose of your visit? If so, then don’t ask host whether you can bring another guest with you.
  4. To remove shoes or not: Some household does not want you to wear shoes inside. They might have elderly parents or toddlers or could be any reasons.
  5. While you are a guest: Do not ask too personal questions, be gentle and don’t make fun of host or criticize host.  Focus on topic, listen to host. If host children have around acknowledged them and be sensible not to talk too much about your son or daughter’s achievement unless they ask. Keep it precise. While using their bathroom make sure to flush the toilet and wash hands.

6. Do not be on the phone: It is a sheer disrespect to be on phone while talking to someone. Unless it is urgent, do not receive the call or make a call. If you must, apologize to host before attending a call.

7. Do not snoop: Do not open the cupboards, drawers, or pantry. If tempted, withhold yourself. Use their computer only by permission but do not get into their personal files.

8. Do not put your feet up on the furniture. It is not appropriate to do so in someone’s else house.

9. If you are a smoker: Do not smoke inside the house. Anyway, smoking is injurious to health.

10. Do not complain: If you did not like something do not complain. Instead request softly if you need something. If their cleaning standards is not up to your expectation do not judge and do not say anything.

11. Leave the house as scheduled: Understand what time host go to bed. Pay attention to their needs and leave accordingly.

12. If staying for a day or more: Keep the guest room clean, make bed and do your laundry. Before leaving make sure you don’t leave a mess behind. Carry your own towels, blankets, and toiletries. Carry your phone chargers and power bank. Do not deplete host resources. If your stay is more than few days, take host out for a meal or dinner. Help in kitchen, do some dishes. If you step outside let the host know what time your coming and goings. Do not treat their house like a hotel. If they are watching TV shows, have a healthy discussion about show or politics.

These suggestions will keep up good relationship with your relatives or friends. In this world being courteous and maintaining relationship is important. After you leave your host, do not gossip about their lives, or pass negative comments with anybody. Do not make your host regret inviting you home. When you are good guest, you will see more hosts in your life.

Image credit: Image by Romjan Aly from Pixabay (Free for commercial use)


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 17, 2023
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Introducing reading habits in kids

Introducing Reading Habit In Kids

Reading is a crucial skill that kids must develop from a young age and parents must nurture the reading skill of children. Developing a reading habit from a young age can have a lasting positive impact on a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development.

These days most kids play with phones and enjoy video games. Inculcating the habit of reading can be tricky and parents find it difficult to convince children to read. How to develop reading habits and what benefits kids get by reading books? First thought is to make them feel “reading is fun”

Ways to introduce and develop reading habit:

  • Create a reading friendly environment: Set up a cozy and comfortable reading space with good lighting and a variety of age-appropriate books.
  • Be a reading role model: Parents and elders of family can demonstrate the importance of reading by reading themselves and sharing their love for books.
  • Start early: Introduce reading to children from infancy by reading aloud and showing colorful picture books.
  • Choose engaging books: Select books that match your child’s interests and reading level. Engaging content encourages them to read more.
  • Make it routine: Set aside dedicated reading time every day. Consistency helps build the habit of reading.
  • Library visits: Visit the local library regularly to explore new books and participate in reading events.
  • Allow choice: Let children choose their reading material. It empowers them and increases their enthusiasm for reading.
  • Family reading time: Dedicate time for family reading sessions where everyone reads their chosen books together.
  • Discuss books: Engage in discussions about the books your child reads. Ask about their favorite parts and characters.
  • Limit screen time: Encourage reading by limiting screen time, replacing some screen activities with reading.
  • Set goals: Set achievable reading goals, such as completing a certain number of pages or chapters each day.
  • Celebrate progress: Celebrate milestones and achievements in reading to motivate and reinforce the habit.

Benefits of reading:

  • Language development: Reading exposes children to a rich vocabulary and helps them learn new words and phrases, improving their language skills and communication.
  • Cognitive skills: Reading enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills by engaging the mind and encouraging comprehension and interpretation.
  • Imagination and creativity: Reading stimulates imagination and creativity as readers visualize the scenes and characters described in the text.
  • Academic success: Children who read regularly often perform better in school. Reading improves comprehension, writing, and academic achievement across subjects.
  • Empathy and understanding: Reading about different cultures, experiences, and perspectives fosters empathy and a broader understanding of the world.
  • Stress buster: Reading can be a form of escape, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
  • Knowledge acquisition: Reading introduces children to a wide range of topics, helping them learn about the world, history, science, and more.

Building reading habit takes time and patience. The goal is to make reading an enjoyable and enriching activity that becomes a natural part of your child’s daily routine.

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1636081#google_vignette (cc by 0)


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Wall Push-Ups Pilates

Wall Push-Ups Pilates

This is like push ups that we do on the mat or floor. Here we perform pushups while standing in front of the wall and using the wall as prep.

 

Benefits of performing Wall Push-ups Pilates is: It works on triceps and stretches pectorals. It also activates shoulder stabilizers and helps to strengthen the upper body torso muscles. Apart from the shoulder wall push ups works on hamstring and resets posture and brings energy.

 

To perform Wall Push-ups Pilates:

 

1.       Stand facing the wall, place your hands on the wall at shoulder height and shoulder-width apart.

2.       Step your feet back, creating a slight angle with your body.

3.       Bend your elbows and lower your chest toward the wall, keeping your body in a straight line.

4.       Push back to the starting position.

 

Image credit: Photo by Ketut Subiyanto: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-man-doing-wall-push-ups-4720311/

 


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: August 16, 2023
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Wall Angels Pilates

Wall Angels Pilates

This an excellent choice to strengthen back muscles. Often we face problem in neck, trunk and feel tired due to over use of back muscles. This hurts our postures causing further issues.

 

Wall angles are also known as “V” to “W” stretches because of the beginning and ending of arm poses. Wall helps to keep the back in neutral position.

 

Benefits of wall angle Pilates is: Strengthening of back muscles as well as lengthening of muscles in front of neck, core and shoulders.

 

To perform wall angles Pilates:

 

1.       Stand with your back against the wall, feet about 6 inches away from the wall.

2.       Raise your arms overhead and press them against the wall while maintaining contact with your wrists, elbows, and close and shoulders.

3.       Slide your arms down the wall, always keeping them in contact with the wall.

4.       Return to the starting position and repeat the movement.

 

Image credit: Eric Astrauskas https://www.flickr.com/photos/personaltrainertoronto/30201045258 (cc by 2.0)

 


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Wall Bridge Pilates

Wall Bridge Pilates

If you want to increase core stability, then wall bride Pilates is for you. It is similar to bridge pose of yoga with modification of using wall as prep.

 

Benefits of Wall bridge Pilates: It targets glute and strengthens glutes. It is also good for hips, increases blood circulation, tones thighs and core.

 

To perform wall bridge Pilates:

 

1.       Lie on your back with your feet flat against the wall, knees bent, and arms at your sides.

2.       Press your feet into the wall as you lift your hips off the floor, creating a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.

3.       Hold for a few seconds, then lower your hips back down to the floor with control.

 

Image credit: Photo by Anna Shvets: https://www.pexels.com/photo/graceful-woman-performing-variation-of-setu-bandha-sarvangasana-yoga-pose-5012071/

 


Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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