The Women’s Premier League (WPL) has been a game-changer, with more female players getting the recognition they deserve for their outstanding skills. These cricketers have captured our hearts with their skills and good looks, breaking stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of female cricketers in India.

Top 7 Most Beautiful Indian Women Cricketers

Let’s have a look at top 7 most beautiful Indian women cricketers:

Smriti Mandhana 

Cricket fans worldwide, particularly boys, adore Smriti Mandhana. Born on July 18th, 1996, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, this enchanting female cricketer shines as a left-handed batter for the Indian Women’s National Team.

Mandhana has played in the Women’s World Cup and represented Maharashtra’s Under-15 and Under-19 teams. Now, she captains the Royal Challengers Bangalore Women’s Team. Since her international debut in 2013, Smriti has helped Team India achieve great success and earned awards in international leagues.

Priya Punia

Priya Punia entered the international T20 stage on February 6th, 2019, against New Zealand. Born on August 6th, 1996, in Rajasthan, Priya attended Jesus and Mary College in Delhi. Originally a badminton player, she discovered her love for cricket and joined the Surana Academy of Cricket in Rajasthan at age nine.

Punia, a right-handed batter, played her first One-Day International (ODI) match against South Africa the previous year. Her unique style adds excitement to the game.

Harleen Deol

Harleen Deol, a talented cricketer from Chandigarh, Punjab, India, was born on June 21st, 1998. As a right-handed batter skilled in leg-spin bowling, Harleen offers versatility to her team.

Initially representing Himachal Pradesh in domestic cricket, Deol demonstrated her abilities as a right-arm fast batter and occasional right-arm leg-spin bowler. Her combination of beauty and exceptional cricket skills has attracted a large fan base, particularly among young people, and a substantial social media following.

Harleen played her first ODI match last year, solidifying her status as a rising star in cricket. Currently, she is a proud member of the Gujarat Giants team.

Harmanpreet Kaur

Harmanpreet Kaur is a Punjab-based all-rounder known for her aggressive playing style. Currently captaining Team India in T20 matches, Kaur made headlines when she led the team to a series whitewash against England on their home turf. 

She also became the first Indian woman to score a century in World T20 Internationals. Fans adore her for her good looks and competitive spirit, and she now captains the Mumbai Indians.

Mona Meshram

Mona Meshram is another talented cricketer who hails from the Vidarbha region and is the first woman from the area to represent India. Meshram’s batting style and captivating appearance have garnered admiration, but she’s also known for her humility. With a strong social media following, she made her ODI debut in 2012. 

Meshram’s parents’ guidance and encouragement helped her pursue her passion for sports, and she played volleyball at the national level before switching to cricket.

Mithali Raj

Legendary cricketer Mithali Raj is a global sensation, earning admiration from fans worldwide. This right-handed opening batter from Tamil Nadu has a background in the Air Force. Mithali holds the record for the highest number of runs in women’s international cricket, a remarkable feat.

Mithali’s exceptional talent has earned her prestigious awards such as the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri in 2003 and 2015. A versatile cricketer, she’s played for India across all international formats. With a massive fan following, Mithali remains an one of most inspiring indian women cricketer, even amid controversies.

Tania Bhatia

Punjab’s Tania Bhatia, an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has represented her nation in 15 ODIs and 49 T20 Internationals. Before joining the Indian team, Tania played for Punjab and North Zone regionally.

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5 Inspiring Female Farmers in India and their Stories of Success

Binita Kumari

Binita Kumari hails from a farming family and has always been passionate about exploring innovative agricultural practices. She ventured into spawn production on paddy seeds and experimented with various species of mushrooms, producing them all year round. To enhance her skills, Binita received training on mushroom cultivation from KVK, Banka.

Today, Binita’s hard work and dedication have paid off, and she earns an impressive annual income of approximately 2.5 to 3 lakh by selling fresh mushrooms and spawn. Her success story is a testament to the power of innovation and the endless possibilities in agriculture.

Papammal: A Living Legend and Padma Shri Awardee

Papammal, the 2021 Padma Shri award winner, is a pioneer in her field and community. Her day begins at daybreak, tending to her 2.5-acre farm in Thekkampatti village in Coimbatore. She has been elected to the local Panchayat twice, demonstrating her dedication to the community and her leadership skills.

As a lead farmer at Krishi Vigyan Kendra at Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Papammal has inspired farmer activism and recognition of the role of women in agriculture. She encourages women farmers to take up farm-extension activities and participate in decision-making at home and farm. Her 2.5-acre land continues to be a site of active learning for organic and sustainable farming practices for agriculture and home science students.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognized Papammal’s contribution to the agricultural sector by felicitating her with the Padma Shri award earlier this year. As the oldest working farmer in Thekkampatti, Papammal is a living legend and an inspiration to farmers and politicians alike. Her commitment to promoting organic farming in India has made her a celebrated figure and an example of how one individual can make a significant impact in their community.

Kisan Chachi Rajkumari Devi

Rajkumari Devi, also known as Kisan Chachi, is a farmer from Anandpur village in Muzaffarpur. She has transformed the agricultural landscape of 19 villages in her district by diversifying crops and introducing new farming techniques. She is renowned for her ability to assess soil quality and predict harvests accurately.

Under Kisan Chachi’s leadership, the 3 Panchayats of Muzaffarpur have moved beyond the traditional wheat-paddy-tobacco cropping cycle and have diversified into other vegetables, fruits, fish farming, poultry, and cow breeding. She has been instrumental in encouraging women in the region not only to farm but also to become full-fledged entrepreneurs.

Today, Kisan Chachi leads the Anandpur Jyoti Centre, a non-profit that employs women farmers to make products like jams, jellies, and pickles from their produce. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to agriculture, including the Kisan Shree Award and the Padma Shri award in 2019. She has also helped over 300 women achieve financial independence by setting up Self Help Groups and using her farming expertise to consult farmers on farming tips and investing in the right agri-based products to earn additional income. Kisan Chachi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of diversification in agriculture and the empowerment of women farmers.

Atram Padma Bai

Atram Padma Bai, a farmer from Telangana, had bigger dreams than what her 3-acre cotton farm could offer. Her vision of creating a Hiring Centre for agricultural tools turned into reality, helping poor farmers access farming tools like pickaxes, sickles, spades, hoes, and wheelbarrows at marginal rates. Today, after six years, Padma Bai has become Sarpanch to eight villages and two thousand farmers.

She has made significant contributions to the community, including building several fair-weather and concrete roads, making clean water accessible, and constructing reservoirs to harvest rainwater. Despite the challenges that women farmers face in claiming their land, Padma Bai has carved out a life on her own terms, leading her community with sustainable farming practices.

Bibi Kamaljit Kaur

Meet Bibi Kamaljit Kaur, a dynamic and successful woman farmer who has transformed the agricultural landscape of several villages with her innovative techniques and focus on sustainable farming. As a mother of two, she has managed to balance her personal life with her passion for farming, and has become an inspiration for many.

Her hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed – KVK Handiaya honoured her as a successful woman farmer at the district level, and she has received awards for progressive and successful Woman Farmer from Deputy Commissioner Barnala.

Kaur’s aim is to revolutionize society with a positive approach and free thinking, and she has achieved this by running over 2000 organic kitchen gardens with more than 2000 women farmers. Through her efforts, she has not only improved the livelihoods of these women but has also contributed to the larger cause of promoting sustainable agriculture.

these inspiring women farmers in India are breaking stereotypes and proving that women are equally capable of making significant contributions to the agricultural sector. Their success stories not only inspire but also pave the way for other women to follow in their footsteps. With their unwavering determination, hard work, and innovation, they have not only transformed their own lives but also impacted the lives of their communities. It is essential to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts and continue to support and empower women in agriculture.

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12 Benefits of Breastfeeding for both mother and baby

Nutritional Benefits:

Breast milk is the perfect food for a baby, providing all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for growth and development. The composition of breast milk changes over time to meet the changing needs of the baby. It is also easier to digest than formula and contains antibodies to protect the baby from illnesses and infections. Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases later in life.

Bonding

Breastfeeding creates a strong bond between mother and baby through skin-to-skin contact and the release of hormones such as oxytocin. This hormone is sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” and helps to create a sense of comfort and security for the baby. This bond can also help the mother to feel more confident and secure in her role as a mother.

Healthier Uterus

Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its normal size after giving birth, which can reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding and help the mother recover more quickly. It also helps to release the hormone prolactin, which promotes feelings of relaxation and reduces stress levels.

Weight Loss

Breastfeeding burns calories, which can help the mother lose weight gained during pregnancy. It also releases hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, making it easier for the mother to control her weight.

Lower Cancer Risk

Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in mothers. This is believed to be due to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding and the removal of potentially cancer-causing substances from the body.

Cost-effective

Formula can be expensive, especially if a baby requires a specialized formula. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, is completely free and requires no additional expenses. It also saves time, as there is no need to prepare bottles or clean and sterilize equipment.

Convenience

Breastfeeding requires no preparation, making it convenient for mothers who are on the go. It can also be done anywhere, at any time, without the need for additional supplies or equipment.

Better Sleep

Breastfeeding releases hormones that help the mother and baby relax and sleep, making it easier for both to get the rest they need. This can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels in both mother and baby.

Fewer Allergies

Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in babies. This is believed to be due to the transfer of antibodies and immune cells from the mother to the baby through breast milk.

Increased Intelligence

Studies have shown that breastfed babies have higher IQs and perform better in school than formula-fed babies. This is thought to be due to the positive impact of the nutrients and hormones in breast milk on brain development.

Better Dental Health

Breastfeeding can improve oral health by promoting the growth of jaw bones and improving the way the jaw is positioned. It can also reduce the risk of developing cavities and other dental problems later in life.

Reduced Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age. While the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, research has shown that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of SIDS. This is thought to be due to the immune-boosting properties of breast milk and respiratory problems in breastfed infants. Breastfeeding has also been shown to improve the baby’s sleep patterns, reducing the risk of SIDS.

How to Breastfeed and Proper way to Breastfeed

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby, but it can also be challenging for first-time mothers. Here are some tips for successful breastfeeding:

1. Find a comfortable position: Experiment with different positions until you find one that is comfortable for you and your baby. Some popular positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, and side-lying position.
2. Latch correctly: A proper latch is essential for successful breastfeeding. Your baby’s mouth should be wide open, with the bottom lip turned down and the top lip curled back, to ensure that the entire areola is in the baby’s mouth.
3. Pay attention to hunger cues: Watch for your baby’s hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or making sucking noises. These cues indicate that your baby is ready to feed.
4. Let your baby set the pace: Your baby will let you know when they are full. Do not force your baby to finish a feeding if they seem satisfied.
5. Alternate breasts: Alternating breasts during each feeding can help to ensure that both breasts are emptied and can help to prevent engorgement or clogged ducts.
6. Offer both breasts: Offer both breasts during each feeding, even if your baby only feeds on one breast. This will help to keep your milk supply balanced.
7. Use breast massage: If you are experiencing engorgement or clogged ducts, using gentle breast massage can help to release the milk and promote circulation.
8. Avoid using pacifiers: Pacifiers can interfere with the baby’s ability to effectively latch and can reduce the baby’s interest in breastfeeding.
9. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply.
10. Seek support: If you are experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, seek support from a lactation consultant, a breastfeeding support group, or your healthcare provider.

It is important to remember that breastfeeding can take time and practice to get used to. Every mother and baby is different, so what works for one mother may not work for another. With the right support and perseverance, most mothers can successfully breastfeed their babies and enjoy the many benefits it provides.

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As a busy mom, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to prepare healthy, nutritious meals for your family. You may feel like you’re constantly on the go, and the thought of spending hours in the kitchen can be overwhelming. But with a little bit of planning and creativity, it’s possible to create delicious and healthy meals that your family will love. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Meal Plan: Plan your meals for the week in advance. This will help you save time and reduce stress, as you won’t have to worry about what to cook each day.
2. Use Leftovers: Take advantage of leftovers from previous meals and use them in new, creative ways. For example, if you have leftover chicken from dinner, you can use it to make a healthy and delicious salad for lunch the next day.
3. Cook in Bulk: Cook in bulk and freeze leftovers for quick and easy meals on busy nights.
4. Get the Kids Involved: Get your kids involved in the kitchen and let them help with meal preparation. This will not only help you save time, but it will also teach your kids valuable cooking skills and the importance of healthy eating.

With these tips in mind, let’s dive into the 10 easy and healthy Indian recipes that are perfect for busy moms:

10 Easy and Healthy Indian Recipes for Busy Moms

1. Chana Masala: This popular vegetarian dish is made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s filling, nutritious, and can be easily adapted to suit different taste preferences. Chana masala is a great dish for busy moms as it’s quick and easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for later use.
2. Aloo Gobi: This classic dish made with potatoes and cauliflower is a staple in Indian cuisine. It’s healthy, flavorful, and can be made in large batches for easy meal prep. Aloo gobi is a great dish for busy moms as it’s a one-pot meal that’s simple to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for later use.
3. Vegetable Biryani: This rice-based dish is packed with vegetables, spices, and flavor. It’s a perfect one-pot meal for busy nights, and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. Vegetable biryani is a great dish for busy moms as it’s quick and easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for later use.
4. Dal Makhani: This rich and creamy dish made with black lentils and kidney beans is a staple in Indian cuisine. It’s nutritious, filling, and can be served with rice or roti. Dal makhani is a great dish for busy moms as it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for later use, making it a quick and convenient meal option on busy nights.
5. Chicken Tikka Masala: This popular dish made with marinated chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce is a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick and easy to make and can be served with rice or roti. Chicken tikka masala is a great dish for busy moms as it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for later use.
6. Butter Chicken: This classic dish made with tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce is a staple in Indian cuisine. It’s quick, easy, and can be made in large batches for easy meal prep. Butter chicken is a great dish for busy moms as it can be stored in the refrigerator for later use and can be served with rice or roti.
7. Vegetable Pulao: This aromatic rice dish is made with a blend of spices, vegetables, and saffron. It’s a perfect one-pot meal for busy nights and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. Vegetable pulao is a lifesaver for busy moms, as it is both quick and simple to prepare, and can also be easily stored in the refrigerator for later.
8. Paneer Tikka: This vegetarian dish made with marinated paneer (Indian cheese) is a popular appetizer in India. It’s easy to make, delicious, and can be served as a main dish or as a snack.
9. Sambar: This flavorful lentil-based soup is a staple in South Indian cuisine. It’s healthy, filling, and can be made in large batches for easy meal prep. Busy moms will appreciate the convenience of Sambar, as it can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for later. This versatile dish pairs well with both rice and roti.
10. Vegetable Korma: This creamy, flavorful dish made with a variety of vegetables and a rich, aromatic sauce is a staple in Indian cuisine. It’s quick, easy, and can be made in large batches for easy meal prep. Vegetable korma is a great dish for busy moms as it can be stored in the refrigerator for later use and can be served with rice or roti.

In conclusion, these 10 easy and healthy Indian recipes are perfect for busy moms. They’re quick, delicious, and can be made in advance for easy meal prep. By incorporating these recipes into your meal planning routine, you’ll be able to provide your family with healthy and nutritious meals, even on busy nights. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can make mealtime stress-free and enjoyable for the whole family.

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How Much Sleep Does a Kindergarten Child Need?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, Kindergarten children need between 11 and 13 hours of sleep each night. This sleep time is essential for the growth and development of their bodies and minds, and helps support healthy habits, including physical activity and good eating habits.

Consistent Bedtime and Wake-Up Time for Better Sleep

Consistency is key when it comes to children’s sleep patterns. That’s why it’s important for parents to establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up time for their kids. This helps regulate the child’s biological clock and improve sleep quality.

Relaxing Bedtime Routine for Better Sleep

In addition to a consistent sleep schedule, a relaxing bedtime routine can also help improve children’s sleep quality. This can include activities such as reading a book or taking a bath, which signal to the child that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Comfortable Sleep Environment for Better Sleep

Creating a comfortable sleep environment is also important for children’s sleep quality. A quiet, cool, and dark room can help children fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night. In addition, limiting exposure to electronic screens, such as televisions, smartphones, and tablets, before bedtime can help prevent sleep problems and improve sleep quality.

Physical Activity and Diet for Better Sleep

Physical activity and diet also play a role in children’s sleep patterns. Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet during the day can help children fall asleep faster, stay asleep, and wake up feeling refreshed.

Conclusion: Helping Kindergarten Children Get the Sleep They Need

In conclusion, Kindergarten children need between 11 and 13 hours of sleep each night to support their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. By maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, relaxing bedtime routine, comfortable sleep environment, and limiting exposure to electronic screens, parents can help their kids get the quality sleep they need. By doing so, they will be setting the foundation for a healthy and happy future for their children.

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By reading these books, women can be better informed about the various stages of pregnancy, the importance of prenatal care, and what they can do to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery. They can also gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological changes that may occur during pregnancy, and learn how to manage stress and anxiety.

Furthermore, these books can provide a support system for expectant mothers as they navigate the challenges of pregnancy and prepare for the arrival of their new baby. Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, these books are an excellent resource for anyone looking for information and support during pregnancy.

5 Books to Read for Pregnant women

• The Whole 9 Months: A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Nutrition Guide by Dr. Catherine Shannon and Elizabeth Isadora Gold

This book provides a comprehensive guide to nutrition for expectant mothers, covering everything from prenatal vitamins to healthy meal options. Each week of pregnancy is covered in detail, providing specific nutritional recommendations to support a healthy pregnancy.

• Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong — and What You Really Need to Know” by Emily Oster

This book takes a data-driven approach to common pregnancy myths and provides evidence-based information on various pregnancy topics such as drinking alcohol and caffeine intake. Emily Oster uses her background in economics to analyze the available data and provide expectant mothers with practical, evidence-based advice.

• The Girlfriends’ Guide to Pregnancy by Vicki Iovine

This book offers a humorous and down-to-earth approach to pregnancy, covering everything from morning sickness to childbirth. Written by a mother of four, Vicki Iovine provides a humorous and relatable perspective on the ups and downs of pregnancy.

• The Pregnancy Book by William Sears, M.D. and Martha Sears, R.N

This book provides a comprehensive guide to pregnancy, from conception to birth. It covers the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy and provides practical advice on how to manage them.

• What to Expect When You’re Expecting by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel

This classic pregnancy guide covers everything from conception to delivery, providing practical advice and information on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and childbirth. This book is widely recognized as a must-read for expectant mothers and is updated regularly to reflect the latest medical information and recommendations.

These five books offer expectant mothers a range of resources to help them prepare for pregnancy and navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that come with it. From comprehensive guides to nutrition and prenatal care to humorous and relatable perspectives on pregnancy, these books provide expectant mothers with the information they need to have a healthy and happy pregnancy. Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, these books are an excellent resource for anyone looking for information and support during pregnancy.

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“We cannot play with them. They cannot play here. This is our space. They can play near theirs” she said. I was appalled!  Another child walked up to me and said the same thing “Aunty, we don’t play with them”. I tried calling the girls from the other building but they were too shy to talk to me. I was surprised to see such groupism in kids. But I knew where all this had started from…Both these buildings are in a common compound  but there has been some property and boundary related disputes which would have often come up in their homes in their parents’ conversations. I believe the kids’opinions were shaped accordingly and the feud between adults extended to become the feud between kids.

I discussed this with my husband at night and he said – that is why education should begin at home. That got me thinking. Do I make the same mistake? How do I interact with others?  Am I setting a good example for my child?

What a child thinks and how he shapes up depends to a great extent on the relationships and the conversations he witnesses in his own house. Today, we live in a world divided due to  financial , caste , religious differences etc. but we as a parent should strive to teach our child to not judge others unfairly , have an open mind and be a kind person. After all, today’s kids are tomorrow’s young people who will shape our world.

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How they meet and where they meet is something you need to read in the book, but all I can say is it is pretty funny

The story is about a young man named Kartik who has high ambitions in life. After graduating from IIM, he does not join any big firm, but joins a start-up entrepreneurial firm started by Ajit. His mentor, Ajit gifts him a holiday to Goa before he starts work. Kartik meets Ajit’s daughter, Sahana in Mumbai before embarking on the journey to Goa. How they meet and where they meet is something you need to read in the book, but all I can say is it is pretty funny 

Sahana and Kartik form a bond but they separate due to unavoidable circumstances. The story then follows Kartik’s journey to becoming the top COO of the country, while Sahana moves on from being a total supposedly good-for-nothing girl to becoming an MBA student. The two of them meet on and off and it is obvious that they love each other. Unfortunately, they are not able to tell each other that. Some incidents lead to Sahana getting engaged to someone else. However, Ajit is taken ill and Sahana and Kartik are entrusted with the responsibility of the company. Sahana’s entry into the company brings forth many changes in the company and their relationship as well.

Why does Sahana agree to get engaged to someone else? What is Kartik’s brother Vinayak doing in the whole story? Why does it become so difficult for Kartik to confess his love to Sahana? Why does Sahana come to Amritsar to spend time with Kartik’s family? Why is Ajit so agitated with Sahana and later on with Kartik?

The story has its ups and downs and makes us feel happy and emotional at various stages.

The story moves in a fast pace and we see the two main characters maturing from their early twenties to late twenties. Each character is well etched and we can relate totally to their mannerisms and emotions. I loved the character of Kartik’s brother who seems to be such a sweetheart! The story has its ups and downs and makes us feel happy and emotional at various stages. The way the two of them end up together is something which will make you smile at the end of it!

Interesting tale of two people – one with ambition and one with a lovely soul.

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It (Anxiety) is really not worth it.

Anxiety among parents is very common. The anxiety comes out in different ways. I yell at my daughter for no reason. I pick fights with my partner. I get depressed and prefer to remain in bed. The head and every other part of me seems to cry in pain. My work suffers and more. It is draining. It is really not worth it.

Here are some habits and routines that make me anxious. Being aware of them help me handle anxiety. (Yes, on somedays it is a losing battle I wage trying to fight anxiety but I still fight on.)

Sleep Habits

The arrival of a baby changes sleep patterns. But at many households, long after the baby starts sleeping through the night, the parents remain awake. It is the time for chores, TV, that glass of wine, personal time and more. Having regular sleep habits helps manage anxiety. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep everyday does make a difference.

Sustenance

Often I forget to eat. Racing against the clock is a norm and often we end up developing bad eating habits.  Many of us tend to binge eat or skip meals. Meals in front of the computer and TV, endless cups of caffeine are all norm. Making sure that you eat three square meals (or six small meals) filled with healthy choices helps one tackle anxiety. A full tummy makes a happy person.

Your Phone

We also depend on our phones more than ever. We are constantly overloaded with information, most of which make us anxious. Screen-based entertainment and social media, while interesting and educative can also depress and make us anxious. Next time, you are waiting or bored, don’t pull out your phone. Put it away and use it only as needed. Instead hum a song, watch the road, read a book or simply, close your eyes and rest!

Caffeine Overload

Caffeine does improve short-term memory and keeps us focused on the tasks at hand, but it also can make people jittery, nervous and irritable. Coffee also dehydrates the body. Restricting caffeine consumption is an easy way to get your anxiety under control.

TV As Entertainment

Snuggling on the couch with the TV streaming the latest, seems like a relaxing activity but recent studies have shown that people who spend more than two hours a day watching television are more anxious and depressed. Entertainment, like everything else, is best in small quantities.

Work-Life Balance

We live in a world where we don’t have concept of clocking out. We are constantly checking our emails and answering work calls. Work sneaks into our personal lives and leaves us irritated and anxious. Try to stop working when you step out of work (or have set hours if you freelance/work from home.) Put work thoughts away and balance life.

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Parenting your child: Why do we react?

My daughter’s perception of me doesn’t have make me a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ mother. This is where most of us mothers judge ourselves too harshly, I think. Parenting your child isn’t an easy process.

How my daughter sees my parenting is her own experience and I don’t have to justify it. But I can learn about myself through her experience, and respond in an appropriate way, rather than judging myself as a mother (in terms of success or failure).

What is the difference between a reaction and a response?

Reacting means noticing only the superficial elements of a problem. Responding is to address the actual issue at hand. It is fascinating to watch what children think of us or themselves in certain situations.

These opportunities are invaluable for my learning and growth. Am I willing to listen without judging myself or my child, and instead develop curiosity about who I am? Making this commitment is critical in these moments of disagreement or conflict.

The work of Carl Rogers, Haim Ginot, Thomas Gordon, Kabat-Zin, Kristin Neff and Brene Brown has facilitated this process for me. I am looking forward to sharing these ideas with mothers who are also reflecting about these matters.

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