Riya Baibhawi

7 Methods To Prevent Seasonal Allergies

allergies

<span>Seasonal allergies</span> occur when a person's immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, and mould. Symptoms primarily affect the membrane lining the nose, leading to allergic rhinitis, or the membrane of the eyelids and the surface of the eyes (conjunctiva), resulting in allergic conjunctivitis. While there are numerous medications available to treat seasonal allergies, given below are seven strategies to help prevent them. 

Antihistamines are medications that help alleviate allergy symptoms by blocking histamines, the chemicals responsible for triggering allergic reactions. They can reduce symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Common over-the-counter antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl). It’s essential to choose a non-drowsy formula if you need to maintain alertness during the day.

A saline nasal rinse, often performed using a neti pot or a squeeze bottle, can provide immediate relief from nasal congestion by flushing out mucus, allergens, and irritants from the nasal passages. This simple solution of salt and water helps to moisturize the nasal membranes and can reduce inflammation. It's especially beneficial during peak allergy seasons or after exposure to allergens.

Antihistamine eye drops are effective for treating itchy, watery eyes caused by seasonal allergies. These drops work directly on the conjunctiva to block histamines and alleviate symptoms. Options include ketotifen (Zaditor) and olopatadine (Pataday). For those with severe symptoms, prescription eye drops may be recommended by a healthcare provider.

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture small particles from the air, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. Installing HEPA filters in your home, particularly in air purifiers and HVAC systems, can significantly improve indoor air quality. Regularly changing these filters ensures optimal performance and continued allergen reduction.

Nasal corticosteroids, available as nasal sprays, help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and nasal irritation. Common options include fluticasone (Flonase) and budesonide (Rhinocort). For best results, they should be used regularly, even during times when symptoms are not present, as they take a few days to reach their full effect.

To minimize allergy symptoms, it's advisable to stay indoors during high pollen or pollution days. Keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can help filter out allergens. If you need to go outside, try to do so early in the morning when pollen levels are typically lower, and consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from airborne allergens.

In addition to conventional treatments, several home remedies may help alleviate allergy symptoms. Local honey is believed to help build immunity to local pollen, while herbal supplements like butterbur and <span>quercetin</span> may offer additional relief. Acupuncture has also been suggested as a complementary treatment for allergies, potentially helping to reduce symptoms through the body’s natural healing processes. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting new remedies or supplements.

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Seasonal Allergies

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Seasonal allergies occur when a person's immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, and mould. Symptoms primarily affect the membrane lining the nose, leading to allergic rhinitis, or the membrane of the eyelids and the surface of the eyes (conjunctiva), resulting in allergic conjunctivitis. While there are numerous medications available to treat seasonal allergies, given below are seven strategies to help prevent them. 1. AntihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that help alleviate allergy symptoms by blocking histamines, the chemicals responsible for triggering allergic reactions. They can reduce symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Common over-the-counter antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl). It’s essential to choose a non-drowsy formula if you need to maintain alertness during the day.2. Saline Nasal RinseA saline nasal rinse, often performed using a neti pot or a squeeze bottle, can provide immediate relief from nasal congestion by flushing out mucus, allergens, and irritants from the nasal passages. This simple solution of salt and water helps to moisturize the nasal membranes and can reduce inflammation. It's especially beneficial during peak allergy seasons or after exposure to allergens.3. Eye DropsAntihistamine eye drops are effective for treating itchy, watery eyes caused by seasonal allergies. These drops work directly on the conjunctiva to block histamines and alleviate symptoms. Options include ketotifen (Zaditor) and olopatadine (Pataday). For those with severe symptoms, prescription eye drops may be recommended by a healthcare provider.4. HEPA FiltersHigh-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture small particles from the air, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. Installing HEPA filters in your home, particularly in air purifiers and HVAC systems, can significantly improve indoor air quality. Regularly changing these filters ensures optimal performance and continued allergen reduction.5. Nasal CorticosteroidsNasal corticosteroids, available as nasal sprays, help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and nasal irritation. Common options include fluticasone (Flonase) and budesonide (Rhinocort). For best results, they should be used regularly, even during times when symptoms are not present, as they take a few days to reach their full effect.6. Avoiding Outdoor ExposureTo minimize allergy symptoms, it's advisable to stay indoors during high pollen or pollution days. Keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can help filter out allergens. If you need to go outside, try to do so early in the morning when pollen levels are typically lower, and consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from airborne allergens.7. Home RemediesIn addition to conventional treatments, several home remedies may help alleviate allergy symptoms. Local honey is believed to help build immunity to local pollen, while herbal supplements like butterbur and quercetin may offer additional relief. Acupuncture has also been suggested as a complementary treatment for allergies, potentially helping to reduce symptoms through the body’s natural healing processes. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting new remedies or supplements.

7 methods to prevent seasonal allergies

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Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, whose birth anniversary is commemorated as Doctors Day

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In India, every year on July 1, National Doctor’s Day is celebrated. This day aims to recognize the efforts and the tireless service of doctors. 

However, the day is much rooted in history. The day is celebrated on July 1 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. Born in Patna, he was a physician, practicing in Kolkata and also served as the Chief Minister of the state of West Bengal. He is also a recipient of the Bharat Ratna. 

It was in 1991 when the Government of India, to honor Dr Roy’s contribution in public health care, declared his birth anniversary as the day devoted to doctors. 

He was born on July 1, 1882, and passed away on the same date in 1962. His legacy also includes founding significant medical institutions like the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and the Medical Council of India (MCI). 

He left Patna in June 1901 and came to Kolkata to study at the Medical College and Hospital. While at medical school, he came upon an inscription which read, "Whatever thy hands findeth to do, do it with thy might.” These words became his inspiration to come. 

He then left for Britain in February 1909 and after he returned he joined the Provincial Health Service. 

Alongside his private medical practice, he wasn’t above stepping in as a nurse when needed. Medicine, for him, wasn’t just a profession—it was a lifelong calling. He taught at the Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, and later, at institutions we now know as NRS Medical College and R.G. Kar Medical College. He also served as the first president of the Cardiological Society of India, leading it from 1948 to 1950.

But for Roy, health wasn’t just about hospitals and textbooks—it was the foundation of a free and thriving nation. 

He believed that India’s dream of swaraj, or self-rule, would never be fulfilled unless its people were physically and mentally strong. That belief drove him to help shape medical education and establish critical institutions like the Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital, Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital, and the Victoria Institution. The Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, a hospital for women and children, opened in 1926 because of his efforts.

He was also Mahatma Gandhi’s personal physician—and more than that, a trusted friend.

In 1925, Roy entered politics and ran as an independent candidate from Barrackpore for the Bengal Legislative Council. He defeated none other than Surendranath Banerjee, the “Grand Old Man of Bengal.” Though he ran independently, Roy often aligned himself with the Swaraj Party. That same year, he raised an early alarm about pollution in the Hooghly River, calling for studies and preventive measures—well ahead of his time.

By 1928, he had joined the All India Congress Committee. A year later, he took part in the Civil Disobedience Movement in Bengal. Pandit Motilal Nehru, recognizing his leadership, brought him into the Congress Working Committee in 1930. But the colonial government cracked down hard—declaring the committee illegal and jailing Roy along with several others on August 26, 1930. He was held at Alipore Central Jail.

During the Dandi March in 1931, many Congress leaders from the Calcutta Corporation were imprisoned. At the party’s request, Roy remained free to keep things running. He served first as Alderman of the Calcutta Corporation and then as Mayor from 1931 to 1933. Under his leadership, the city saw improved roads, better lighting and water supply, free education, free medical care, and a systematic approach to funding hospitals and dispensaries.

When Rangoon fell to Japanese forces in 1942 and panic gripped Calcutta, Roy was the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta. As fear of bombings loomed, he arranged for air-raid shelters so that classes could continue safely and also provided relief for students, teachers, and university staff.

<h4>Why Is It Important To Observe This Day?</h4>

Roy’s compassion has become the foundation of those in the medical service. The day thus brings attention to the healthcare professionals. It also asks a very important question: Who heals the healer? 

This question compels one to wonder how those who work under immense pressure to save life manage the stress? Dr Dilip P Bhanushali, President of the IMA pointed out in his address speech at the Times Network India Health Summit on the importance of taking care of healthcare workers, especially in the face of on growing violence against doctors. 

This day, thus reminds people of how doctors prioritize other lives, often neglecting theirs The day, thus, works as a reminder to care for those who care for us. 

doctors day

health and wellness

national doctors day

doctors day 2025

india doctors day

In India, every year on July 1, National Doctor’s Day is celebrated. This day aims to recognize the efforts and the tireless service of doctors. However, the day is much rooted in history. The day is celebrated on July 1 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. Born in Patna, he was a physician, practicing in Kolkata and also served as the Chief Minister of the state of West Bengal. He is also a recipient of the Bharat Ratna. It was in 1991 when the Government of India, to honor Dr Roy’s contribution in public health care, declared his birth anniversary as the day devoted to doctors. Who Was Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy?He was born on July 1, 1882, and passed away on the same date in 1962. His legacy also includes founding significant medical institutions like the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and the Medical Council of India (MCI). He left Patna in June 1901 and came to Kolkata to study at the Medical College and Hospital. While at medical school, he came upon an inscription which read, "Whatever thy hands findeth to do, do it with thy might.” These words became his inspiration to come. He then left for Britain in February 1909 and after he returned he joined the Provincial Health Service. Alongside his private medical practice, he wasn’t above stepping in as a nurse when needed. Medicine, for him, wasn’t just a profession—it was a lifelong calling. He taught at the Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, and later, at institutions we now know as NRS Medical College and R.G. Kar Medical College. He also served as the first president of the Cardiological Society of India, leading it from 1948 to 1950.But for Roy, health wasn’t just about hospitals and textbooks—it was the foundation of a free and thriving nation. He believed that India’s dream of swaraj, or self-rule, would never be fulfilled unless its people were physically and mentally strong. That belief drove him to help shape medical education and establish critical institutions like the Jadavpur T.B. Hospital, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital, Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital, and the Victoria Institution. The Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, a hospital for women and children, opened in 1926 because of his efforts.He was also Mahatma Gandhi’s personal physician—and more than that, a trusted friend.In 1925, Roy entered politics and ran as an independent candidate from Barrackpore for the Bengal Legislative Council. He defeated none other than Surendranath Banerjee, the “Grand Old Man of Bengal.” Though he ran independently, Roy often aligned himself with the Swaraj Party. That same year, he raised an early alarm about pollution in the Hooghly River, calling for studies and preventive measures—well ahead of his time.By 1928, he had joined the All India Congress Committee. A year later, he took part in the Civil Disobedience Movement in Bengal. Pandit Motilal Nehru, recognizing his leadership, brought him into the Congress Working Committee in 1930. But the colonial government cracked down hard—declaring the committee illegal and jailing Roy along with several others on August 26, 1930. He was held at Alipore Central Jail.During the Dandi March in 1931, many Congress leaders from the Calcutta Corporation were imprisoned. At the party’s request, Roy remained free to keep things running. He served first as Alderman of the Calcutta Corporation and then as Mayor from 1931 to 1933. Under his leadership, the city saw improved roads, better lighting and water supply, free education, free medical care, and a systematic approach to funding hospitals and dispensaries.When Rangoon fell to Japanese forces in 1942 and panic gripped Calcutta, Roy was the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta. As fear of bombings loomed, he arranged for air-raid shelters so that classes could continue safely and also provided relief for students, teachers, and university staff.Why Is It Important To Observe This Day?Roy’s compassion has become the foundation of those in the medical service. The day thus brings attention to the healthcare professionals. It also asks a very important question: Who heals the healer? This question compels one to wonder how those who work under immense pressure to save life manage the stress? Dr Dilip P Bhanushali, President of the IMA pointed out in his address speech at the Times Network India Health Summit on the importance of taking care of healthcare workers, especially in the face of on growing violence against doctors. This day, thus reminds people of how doctors prioritize other lives, often neglecting theirs The day, thus, works as a reminder to care for those who care for us. 

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When Group Captain <span>Shubhanshu Shukla</span> became the first Indian to board the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission-4, he carried with him not only national pride but years of medical preparation and personal discipline. 

Space travel is as much about the body and mind as it is about engineering and exploration. 

Here's a deep dive into how astronauts safeguard their wellbeing before, during, and after their missions — and why every step is critical.

Astronauts begin their journey long before liftoff. Months — sometimes years — ahead of the mission, they are paired with flight surgeons (physicians with specialized training in space medicine) who monitor and manage their health meticulously. In Shukla’s case, the Indian Air Force appointed Dr. Punyashlok Biswal as his designated physician, offering continuity of care throughout his space journey, as reported by NDTV. 

The Week.in reports that in the final weeks before launch, astronauts enter a tightly controlled quarantine. According to space analyst Girish Linganna, as was told to the Week.in, this isolation isn't just protocol — it's protection. 

Infections like the common cold could threaten an entire mission. The ISS is a sealed environment with limited medical supplies, where even a minor illness can compromise experiments, affect crew performance, or force an early return to Earth.

<h4>Physical Conditioning and Mental Fortitude</h4>

Training includes intense physical conditioning and simulation drills. Astronauts must meet demanding benchmarks for strength, endurance, agility, and aerobic fitness to ensure they can function in a microgravity environment. Mental preparation is equally crucial. NASA assesses candidates for resilience, adaptability, and communication skills as early as the selection phase. Crew members are also trained in self-care and team dynamics — vital skills when you’re isolated 400 kilometers above Earth.

Astronauts like Shukla don’t travel alone — at least not medically. Flight surgeons remain connected throughout the mission, conducting weekly telemedicine check-ins to monitor everything from sleep quality to cardiovascular performance. These physicians act as both doctors and confidants, forming years-long relationships with astronauts. As Dr. Brigitte Godard of the European Space Agency told NDTV, “They are like family physicians.”

Each astronaut's physiological response to microgravity is unique. While Shukla initially experienced space motion sickness — a common side effect in early days of spaceflight — his extensive background as a fighter pilot made him more resilient. With monitoring and proper support, these symptoms are manageable, especially on short-duration missions like Ax-4.

<h4>Physical Fitness In Microgravity </h4>

Microgravity weakens bones and muscles due to the lack of physical stress normally exerted by gravity. To counteract this, astronauts exercise for approximately 2.5 hours each day. They use devices like the ARED (Advanced Resistive Exercise Device) to simulate weightlifting, a treadmill (T2), and the CEVIS bike for cardiovascular fitness. These workouts help preserve muscle mass, maintain bone density, and support motor coordination — all vital for safe movement and return to Earth.

Nutrition in space serves a dual purpose: physiological support and psychological comfort. NASA’s Space Food Systems Laboratory creates meals that are both nutrient-rich and enjoyable. Astronauts also receive care packages and can request familiar foods — a small but significant way to boost morale. Their dietary intake is carefully tracked using digital tools, and samples of blood and urine are analyzed throughout the mission to ensure optimal nutrient levels.

Long-term isolation, confined quarters, and the lack of natural stimuli can weigh heavily on astronauts’ mental health. NASA provides behavioral support, including access to psychologists, video conferencing with loved ones, and team-building activities. These efforts are designed to sustain emotional resilience and interpersonal harmony in space.

Once back on Earth, astronauts don’t just walk away from the mission — literally. The effects of weightlessness linger, including muscle weakness, balance issues, and reduced cardiovascular capacity. Recovery begins immediately with medical evaluations and a customized reconditioning program. NASA’s Astronaut Strength and Conditioning Specialists (ASCRs) design plans that rebuild agility, strength, and motor skills.

Each astronaut's recovery timeline is different. While most regain preflight fitness within 45 days, others may need extended rehabilitation. Progress is carefully tracked using pre-mission benchmarks, ensuring each individual returns to full function — and readiness for future missions.

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axiom 4

When Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to board the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission-4, he carried with him not only national pride but years of medical preparation and personal discipline. Space travel is as much about the body and mind as it is about engineering and exploration. Here's a deep dive into how astronauts safeguard their wellbeing before, during, and after their missions — and why every step is critical.Prep Before LaunchAstronauts begin their journey long before liftoff. Months — sometimes years — ahead of the mission, they are paired with flight surgeons (physicians with specialized training in space medicine) who monitor and manage their health meticulously. In Shukla’s case, the Indian Air Force appointed Dr. Punyashlok Biswal as his designated physician, offering continuity of care throughout his space journey, as reported by NDTV. The Week.in reports that in the final weeks before launch, astronauts enter a tightly controlled quarantine. According to space analyst Girish Linganna, as was told to the Week.in, this isolation isn't just protocol — it's protection. Infections like the common cold could threaten an entire mission. The ISS is a sealed environment with limited medical supplies, where even a minor illness can compromise experiments, affect crew performance, or force an early return to Earth.Physical Conditioning and Mental FortitudeTraining includes intense physical conditioning and simulation drills. Astronauts must meet demanding benchmarks for strength, endurance, agility, and aerobic fitness to ensure they can function in a microgravity environment. Mental preparation is equally crucial. NASA assesses candidates for resilience, adaptability, and communication skills as early as the selection phase. Crew members are also trained in self-care and team dynamics — vital skills when you’re isolated 400 kilometers above Earth.Monitoring Health in Real-TimeAstronauts like Shukla don’t travel alone — at least not medically. Flight surgeons remain connected throughout the mission, conducting weekly telemedicine check-ins to monitor everything from sleep quality to cardiovascular performance. These physicians act as both doctors and confidants, forming years-long relationships with astronauts. As Dr. Brigitte Godard of the European Space Agency told NDTV, “They are like family physicians.”Each astronaut's physiological response to microgravity is unique. While Shukla initially experienced space motion sickness — a common side effect in early days of spaceflight — his extensive background as a fighter pilot made him more resilient. With monitoring and proper support, these symptoms are manageable, especially on short-duration missions like Ax-4.Physical Fitness In Microgravity Microgravity weakens bones and muscles due to the lack of physical stress normally exerted by gravity. To counteract this, astronauts exercise for approximately 2.5 hours each day. They use devices like the ARED (Advanced Resistive Exercise Device) to simulate weightlifting, a treadmill (T2), and the CEVIS bike for cardiovascular fitness. These workouts help preserve muscle mass, maintain bone density, and support motor coordination — all vital for safe movement and return to Earth.Ensuring NutritionNutrition in space serves a dual purpose: physiological support and psychological comfort. NASA’s Space Food Systems Laboratory creates meals that are both nutrient-rich and enjoyable. Astronauts also receive care packages and can request familiar foods — a small but significant way to boost morale. Their dietary intake is carefully tracked using digital tools, and samples of blood and urine are analyzed throughout the mission to ensure optimal nutrient levels.Mental and Emotional SupportLong-term isolation, confined quarters, and the lack of natural stimuli can weigh heavily on astronauts’ mental health. NASA provides behavioral support, including access to psychologists, video conferencing with loved ones, and team-building activities. These efforts are designed to sustain emotional resilience and interpersonal harmony in space.Postflight RehabilitationOnce back on Earth, astronauts don’t just walk away from the mission — literally. The effects of weightlessness linger, including muscle weakness, balance issues, and reduced cardiovascular capacity. Recovery begins immediately with medical evaluations and a customized reconditioning program. NASA’s Astronaut Strength and Conditioning Specialists (ASCRs) design plans that rebuild agility, strength, and motor skills.Each astronaut's recovery timeline is different. While most regain preflight fitness within 45 days, others may need extended rehabilitation. Progress is carefully tracked using pre-mission benchmarks, ensuring each individual returns to full function — and readiness for future missions.

What Is The 'Japanese Way' Of Leading A Healthy Life?

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If one has to look at the data of old-age dependency ratio, Japan, very clearly stands as an outlier. Whether or not it is great for their economy, the truth one cannot deny is the healthy lifestyle they swear by, which has enabled a longer life expectancy. It is in Japan where this ratio is highest in the world, which means people older than 64 are living a long life. 

Dr Martin Juneau, MD, FRCP, writes that among the G7 countries, Japan has the highest life expectancy at birth. For Japanese men, the average age is 81.1, whereas Japanese women live up to an average age of 87.1 years.

The reason, Juneau writes, is because of fewer deaths from ischemic heart disease and cancers, particularly breast and prostate cancer, which is common among women and men at an older age, respectively. 

Japan’s low mortality rate is largely due to a diet low in red meat, rich in fish, soy, tea, and a notably low obesity rate—4.8% in men and 3.7% in women. In contrast, Canada’s 2016 obesity rates were 24.6% for men and 26.2% for women. Obesity raises the risk of heart disease and several cancers.

It is thus no surprise that Japan makes it to the list Blue Zones, a termed coined by author Dan Buettner, who studied the areas of the world where people lived exceptionally long lives. He called them the "Blue zones", because when Buettner and his colleagues were searching for these areas, they drew it with a blue circles around them on the map.

Japan's Okinawa is one of the five regions that makes it to the list.

<h4>The <span rel="noindex">Japanese Walking</span></h4>

Also known as <span>Interval Walking Training</span> or the <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/fitness/japanese-walking-is-the-new-low-impact-fitness-trend-for-healthy-heart-article-151802566" data-type="tilCustomLink">Japanese Walking</a> is a safe and sustainable way to improve your fitness without going to the gym. 

It is developed by Japanese researchers to target cardiometabolic health in older adults, IWT blends short bursts of brisk walking with periods of slower recovery walks — making it an ideal choice for people across age groups and fitness levels.

Unlike traditional walking, which is usually done at a steady pace, IWT alternates between fast and slow intervals. The recommended protocol involves five sets of 3 minutes of brisk walking followed by 3 minutes of slower walking, totaling 30 minutes of exercise. This is typically done five days a week.

Japanese people have made it a habit to drink <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/why-do-the-japanese-drink-vinegar-before-their-meals-article-151339723" data-type="tilCustomLink">vinegar </a>before every meal as a healthy tonic. On an average, a Japanese person drinks 15 to 30 ml, which is around 1 to 2 tablespoons of vinegar. They dilute it in water right before the meal.

Vinegar contain acetic acid that helps in increasing the production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid. This can also help break down food more effectively. There are studies too that show that acetic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes that happens right after you consume your meal.

There are other benefits to drinking vinegar. It also helps to boost your metabolism and promote weight loss. Research also suggests that acetic acid can increase fat burning and reduce fat storage. 

Japanese people are known for following a healthy routine. It does not have to be rigorous, but what is important for them is the consistency with which you follow it. 

Some of the <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/10-timeless-beauty-lessons-from-japanese-skincare-rituals-article-151274760" data-type="tilCustomLink">habits </a>they follow as a day-to-day life are:

<ul><li>Picking fresh from the market</li><li>Using different methods of hydration, including drinking tea, which fulfills the intake of antioxidants </li><li>In Japan, skincare is not luxury, they pay special attention to hydrating their skin</li><li>Prioritising sleep</li><li>Eating fermented food that keeps their guts healthy</li></ul>

The Okinawan mantra to a healthy diet is<em> </em><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/the-blue-zones-what-we-can-learn-from-the-worlds-longest-lived-people-article-151111188" data-type="tilCustomLink"><em>Hara Hachi Bu</em></a><em></em>, which stands for eating only 80% of your diet. It was founded 2500-year ago by Confucianism. It is said before the meal to remind people to stop eating when they are stomach are 80% full. The study mentions that the "20% gap between not being hungry and feeling full could be the difference between losing weight or gaining it." The study by Buettner also found that the people in the Blue Zones eat their smallest meal in the late afternoon or early evening, and then, they do not eat any more the rest of the day.

<h4><span rel="noindex">Reiki Healing</span></h4>

While it is not to be substituted as a cure to diseases or illness, or even as a therapy, this complementary therapy can be used alongside conventional medical treatments. 

It is a Japanese form of energy healing where practitioners channel universal life force energy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and potentially aid in healing. It involves placing hands lightly on or near the body to transfer this energy, aiming to balance the body's energy and facilitate well-being. Reiki is considered a complementary therapy, not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. 

Japanese walking

Japanese way of life

Interval Walking Training

Japanese drink vinegar before meal

Healthy Japanese way of life

Blue Zone Okinawa

Okinawa Japane

Reiki Healing

If one has to look at the data of old-age dependency ratio, Japan, very clearly stands as an outlier. Whether or not it is great for their economy, the truth one cannot deny is the healthy lifestyle they swear by, which has enabled a longer life expectancy. It is in Japan where this ratio is highest in the world, which means people older than 64 are living a long life. Dr Martin Juneau, MD, FRCP, writes that among the G7 countries, Japan has the highest life expectancy at birth. For Japanese men, the average age is 81.1, whereas Japanese women live up to an average age of 87.1 years.The reason, Juneau writes, is because of fewer deaths from ischemic heart disease and cancers, particularly breast and prostate cancer, which is common among women and men at an older age, respectively. Japan’s low mortality rate is largely due to a diet low in red meat, rich in fish, soy, tea, and a notably low obesity rate—4.8% in men and 3.7% in women. In contrast, Canada’s 2016 obesity rates were 24.6% for men and 26.2% for women. Obesity raises the risk of heart disease and several cancers.It is thus no surprise that Japan makes it to the list Blue Zones, a termed coined by author Dan Buettner, who studied the areas of the world where people lived exceptionally long lives. He called them the "Blue zones", because when Buettner and his colleagues were searching for these areas, they drew it with a blue circles around them on the map.Japan's Okinawa is one of the five regions that makes it to the list.So, how do Japanese stay healthy?The Japanese WalkingAlso known as Interval Walking Training or the Japanese Walking is a safe and sustainable way to improve your fitness without going to the gym. It is developed by Japanese researchers to target cardiometabolic health in older adults, IWT blends short bursts of brisk walking with periods of slower recovery walks — making it an ideal choice for people across age groups and fitness levels.Unlike traditional walking, which is usually done at a steady pace, IWT alternates between fast and slow intervals. The recommended protocol involves five sets of 3 minutes of brisk walking followed by 3 minutes of slower walking, totaling 30 minutes of exercise. This is typically done five days a week.Vinegar Before MealsJapanese people have made it a habit to drink vinegar before every meal as a healthy tonic. On an average, a Japanese person drinks 15 to 30 ml, which is around 1 to 2 tablespoons of vinegar. They dilute it in water right before the meal.Vinegar contain acetic acid that helps in increasing the production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid. This can also help break down food more effectively. There are studies too that show that acetic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes that happens right after you consume your meal.There are other benefits to drinking vinegar. It also helps to boost your metabolism and promote weight loss. Research also suggests that acetic acid can increase fat burning and reduce fat storage. A Healthy RoutineJapanese people are known for following a healthy routine. It does not have to be rigorous, but what is important for them is the consistency with which you follow it. Some of the habits they follow as a day-to-day life are:Picking fresh from the marketUsing different methods of hydration, including drinking tea, which fulfills the intake of antioxidants In Japan, skincare is not luxury, they pay special attention to hydrating their skinPrioritising sleepEating fermented food that keeps their guts healthyEating HabitsThe Okinawan mantra to a healthy diet is Hara Hachi Bu, which stands for eating only 80% of your diet. It was founded 2500-year ago by Confucianism. It is said before the meal to remind people to stop eating when they are stomach are 80% full. The study mentions that the "20% gap between not being hungry and feeling full could be the difference between losing weight or gaining it." The study by Buettner also found that the people in the Blue Zones eat their smallest meal in the late afternoon or early evening, and then, they do not eat any more the rest of the day.Reiki HealingWhile it is not to be substituted as a cure to diseases or illness, or even as a therapy, this complementary therapy can be used alongside conventional medical treatments. It is a Japanese form of energy healing where practitioners channel universal life force energy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and potentially aid in healing. It involves placing hands lightly on or near the body to transfer this energy, aiming to balance the body's energy and facilitate well-being. Reiki is considered a complementary therapy, not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. 

what is the 'japanese way' of leading a healthy life?

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