Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Like, Comment, Share: How Social Media Triggers Dopamine Loops, Comparison Anxiety And Rewires Your Brain With Anxiety?

The simple act of scrolling has evolved far beyond a harmless pastime. It is now a neurological cycle that changes brain chemistry, hijacks attention periods, and blurs emotional health—particularly in young and active consumers. Social media sites are not only connecting tools; they are complicated behavior patterns designed to sustain users on powerful psychological structures based on dopamine.

As studies continue to expose the biological and emotional toll of chronic online activity, <span>mental health</span> experts are crying foul. "Social media can create an artificial reward system," says Krisha Sanghvi, a counselling psychologist. "You may get a fleeting high when you receive likes or views, but that can quickly spiral into anxiety when the views slow down or when you compare your life to somebody else's highlight reel.

<span>Dopamine Loop</span>: Why Scrolling Feels So Good—Until It Doesn't?

Social media is intentionally designed to activate the brain's reward system. Every swipe, like, comment, or notification triggers a microdose of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for the pleasure response. Though this feedback loop itself is harmless, repeated exposure reprograms the brain in patterns that are reminiscent of addictive behavior.

The brain slowly ceases to be responsive to other, more natural sources of fulfillment. Once-enjoyable pursuits—such as having meaningful conversations, reading a book, or savoring an uneventful moment—pale in comparison to the high-stimulation world of social media.

With time, spontaneous scrolling becomes an addiction. "Most of my clients, particularly adolescents, report a near-automatic desire to look at their phones—even in the absence of a notification," says Sanghvi. That constant checking is not driven by curiosity—it's driven by anticipation and that potentially accompanying dopamine rush. The cycle repeats, building on itself until pleasures in the real world taste dull and unimpressive.

How Social Media Is Shrinking Attention Spans and Disrupted Emotional Regulation?

The human brain is astonishingly adaptable. Unfortunately, that adaptability can also make us vulnerable. When constantly exposed to quick-hit content—15-second videos, flashy memes, endless reels—our brains recalibrate to prefer brief, stimulating bursts over deep, focused engagement.

This does not only affect the way we engage with information, but the way we deal with emotions as well. Activities such as reading a lengthy article, paying close attention during meetings, or sitting in contemplative silence begin to feel awkward. In Sanghvi's words, "The brain becomes restless. When you take away the phone, you're not just taking away distraction—you're taking away the source of mental pacification.

In addition, this reliance on outside stimulation undermines our capacity for emotional regulation. Endless exposure to edited perfection on the internet tempts us to seek praise and stimulation from outside ourselves. Without it, boredom—and even anxiety—may follow in short order. Eventually, individuals can lose the skills of self-calming, contemplation, or the ability to stay still without feeling emotionally disturbed.

<span>Comparison Anxiety</span>: Hidden Mental Toll of the Highlight Reel?

Behind the shiny facade of selfies and jubilation is a darker reality: social media can insidiously eat away at mental health. Sites build an unrealistic reality, where edited vignettes are confused for the complete picture. That tends to trigger comparison anxiety, a contemporary mental illness that plagues millions.

"Each time we contrast our reality with someone else's online fiction, we undermine our own self-worth," according to Sanghvi. Whether the individual is a high school student looking at influencers who appear to have ideal lives or an adult browsing friends' professional achievements, the emotional outcome is typically the same: inadequacy, jealousy, and isolation.

This dynamic is especially threatening to teenagers and young adults, whose sense of self is still developing. The number of likes for a selfie can affect whether they will feel good about themselves for the rest of the day. When verification can be measured, self-esteem is transactional.

The children's and teens' brains are still being built. The prefrontal cortex—the area of the brain responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation—is still developing well into the mid-20s. During this time of heightened susceptibility, repeated digital interactions don't merely entertain—they shape neural architecture.

Through synaptic pruning, the brain reinforces frequently used connections between neurons and loses those that are not. If children are continually exposed to high-speed, high-reward media, the reward circuits for patience, contemplation, and delayed gratification may be atrophied.

Just as disturbing is how social media infuses external verification into self-concept. An adolescent whose self-esteem is based on likes or comments is being conditioned to build confidence on the basis of other people's thoughts instead of internal standards.

In brief: yes. Neuroplasticity—the capacity of the brain to reorganize and rewire itself—is both a blessing and a curse. Each time we perform a repetitive task, we strengthen a certain constellation of neural pathways. Scrolling, looking for likes, and consuming bite-sized information essentially "educates" the brain to optimize for stimulation over stability.

This leads to trouble focusing, low emotional tolerance, and a degraded capacity for critical thinking. As we become accustomed to low-complexity, high-emotion content, our tolerance for nuance decreases. In this condition, even mild stressors can become overpowering, and intense focus becomes difficult.

To restore mental acuity and emotional equilibrium, most therapists now recommend a dopamine detox—a planned <span>digital detox</span> that gives the brain time to reboot. The aim is not to deprive of pleasure, but to restore the brain's sensitivity to everyday, uncomplicated pleasures.

"Even taking a couple of hours off every day can make a huge difference," says Sanghvi. "At first, it is uncomfortable—there's something missing. But over time, people start feeling more present, more in charge, and less reactive."

Part of this, digital hygiene—the everyday routines that maintain mental well-being in cyberspace—is crucial. Placing screen boundaries, assembling content that's uplifting, and prioritizing offline time are not merely desirable wellness tricks—they're life-saving interventions for mind and emotions.

How Can Parents Support the Next Generation?

Parents and educators are best placed to lead young people through the virtual labyrinth. That does not imply imposing tight controls, but encouraging sensitivity and moderation.

Begin by encouraging children to explain their internet feelings. Do they scroll because they are bored? Do they worry when they do not receive likes? These types of questions promote emotional awareness and self-understanding.

Adults need to model good digital behavior too. Family routines such as device-free meals, outdoor weekend trips, or screen-free times encourage being present and help normalize digital balance. And schools can weave in digital literacy—teaching not only how to use technology but how to question it.

Social media isn't bad in itself—but its impact on the brain, especially via dopamine loops and comparison anxiety, is undeniable. As consumers, it's important to see how these platforms influence not only what we view, but the way we think, feel, and relate.

Rewiring mental patterns isn't merely an intellectual upgrade—it's a psychological imperative in the era of distraction. With intention, conscious habits, and the will to disconnect, we can take back our attention, regain emotional equilibrium, and safeguard our most potent resource- the mind.

Krisha Sanghvi is a Counselling Psychologist at Samarpan Recovery in India

Health Conditions A-Z

health

mental health

social media addiction

dopamine loop

comparison anxiety

mental health effects

rewiring brain

digital detox

social media impact

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The simple act of scrolling has evolved far beyond a harmless pastime. It is now a neurological cycle that changes brain chemistry, hijacks attention periods, and blurs emotional health—particularly in young and active consumers. Social media sites are not only connecting tools; they are complicated behavior patterns designed to sustain users on powerful psychological structures based on dopamine.As studies continue to expose the biological and emotional toll of chronic online activity, mental health experts are crying foul. "Social media can create an artificial reward system," says Krisha Sanghvi, a counselling psychologist. "You may get a fleeting high when you receive likes or views, but that can quickly spiral into anxiety when the views slow down or when you compare your life to somebody else's highlight reel.Dopamine Loop: Why Scrolling Feels So Good—Until It Doesn't?Social media is intentionally designed to activate the brain's reward system. Every swipe, like, comment, or notification triggers a microdose of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for the pleasure response. Though this feedback loop itself is harmless, repeated exposure reprograms the brain in patterns that are reminiscent of addictive behavior.The brain slowly ceases to be responsive to other, more natural sources of fulfillment. Once-enjoyable pursuits—such as having meaningful conversations, reading a book, or savoring an uneventful moment—pale in comparison to the high-stimulation world of social media.With time, spontaneous scrolling becomes an addiction. "Most of my clients, particularly adolescents, report a near-automatic desire to look at their phones—even in the absence of a notification," says Sanghvi. That constant checking is not driven by curiosity—it's driven by anticipation and that potentially accompanying dopamine rush. The cycle repeats, building on itself until pleasures in the real world taste dull and unimpressive.How Social Media Is Shrinking Attention Spans and Disrupted Emotional Regulation?The human brain is astonishingly adaptable. Unfortunately, that adaptability can also make us vulnerable. When constantly exposed to quick-hit content—15-second videos, flashy memes, endless reels—our brains recalibrate to prefer brief, stimulating bursts over deep, focused engagement.This does not only affect the way we engage with information, but the way we deal with emotions as well. Activities such as reading a lengthy article, paying close attention during meetings, or sitting in contemplative silence begin to feel awkward. In Sanghvi's words, "The brain becomes restless. When you take away the phone, you're not just taking away distraction—you're taking away the source of mental pacification.In addition, this reliance on outside stimulation undermines our capacity for emotional regulation. Endless exposure to edited perfection on the internet tempts us to seek praise and stimulation from outside ourselves. Without it, boredom—and even anxiety—may follow in short order. Eventually, individuals can lose the skills of self-calming, contemplation, or the ability to stay still without feeling emotionally disturbed.Comparison Anxiety: Hidden Mental Toll of the Highlight Reel?Behind the shiny facade of selfies and jubilation is a darker reality: social media can insidiously eat away at mental health. Sites build an unrealistic reality, where edited vignettes are confused for the complete picture. That tends to trigger comparison anxiety, a contemporary mental illness that plagues millions."Each time we contrast our reality with someone else's online fiction, we undermine our own self-worth," according to Sanghvi. Whether the individual is a high school student looking at influencers who appear to have ideal lives or an adult browsing friends' professional achievements, the emotional outcome is typically the same: inadequacy, jealousy, and isolation.This dynamic is especially threatening to teenagers and young adults, whose sense of self is still developing. The number of likes for a selfie can affect whether they will feel good about themselves for the rest of the day. When verification can be measured, self-esteem is transactional.The children's and teens' brains are still being built. The prefrontal cortex—the area of the brain responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation—is still developing well into the mid-20s. During this time of heightened susceptibility, repeated digital interactions don't merely entertain—they shape neural architecture.Through synaptic pruning, the brain reinforces frequently used connections between neurons and loses those that are not. If children are continually exposed to high-speed, high-reward media, the reward circuits for patience, contemplation, and delayed gratification may be atrophied.Just as disturbing is how social media infuses external verification into self-concept. An adolescent whose self-esteem is based on likes or comments is being conditioned to build confidence on the basis of other people's thoughts instead of internal standards.Can Social Media Rewire Our Brains?In brief: yes. Neuroplasticity—the capacity of the brain to reorganize and rewire itself—is both a blessing and a curse. Each time we perform a repetitive task, we strengthen a certain constellation of neural pathways. Scrolling, looking for likes, and consuming bite-sized information essentially "educates" the brain to optimize for stimulation over stability.This leads to trouble focusing, low emotional tolerance, and a degraded capacity for critical thinking. As we become accustomed to low-complexity, high-emotion content, our tolerance for nuance decreases. In this condition, even mild stressors can become overpowering, and intense focus becomes difficult.How To Reset Your Overstimulated BrainTo restore mental acuity and emotional equilibrium, most therapists now recommend a dopamine detox—a planned digital detox that gives the brain time to reboot. The aim is not to deprive of pleasure, but to restore the brain's sensitivity to everyday, uncomplicated pleasures."Even taking a couple of hours off every day can make a huge difference," says Sanghvi. "At first, it is uncomfortable—there's something missing. But over time, people start feeling more present, more in charge, and less reactive."Part of this, digital hygiene—the everyday routines that maintain mental well-being in cyberspace—is crucial. Placing screen boundaries, assembling content that's uplifting, and prioritizing offline time are not merely desirable wellness tricks—they're life-saving interventions for mind and emotions.How Can Parents Support the Next Generation?Parents and educators are best placed to lead young people through the virtual labyrinth. That does not imply imposing tight controls, but encouraging sensitivity and moderation.Begin by encouraging children to explain their internet feelings. Do they scroll because they are bored? Do they worry when they do not receive likes? These types of questions promote emotional awareness and self-understanding.Adults need to model good digital behavior too. Family routines such as device-free meals, outdoor weekend trips, or screen-free times encourage being present and help normalize digital balance. And schools can weave in digital literacy—teaching not only how to use technology but how to question it.Social media isn't bad in itself—but its impact on the brain, especially via dopamine loops and comparison anxiety, is undeniable. As consumers, it's important to see how these platforms influence not only what we view, but the way we think, feel, and relate.Rewiring mental patterns isn't merely an intellectual upgrade—it's a psychological imperative in the era of distraction. With intention, conscious habits, and the will to disconnect, we can take back our attention, regain emotional equilibrium, and safeguard our most potent resource- the mind.Krisha Sanghvi is a Counselling Psychologist at Samarpan Recovery in India

Like, Comment, Share: How Social Media Triggers Dopamine Loops, Comparison Anxiety And Rewires Your Brain

like, comment, share: how social media triggers dopamine loops, comparison anxiety and rewires your brain with anxiety?

Aarushi Bhadury

Don’t Wait! Why Women In Their 40s Should Prioritize Breast Cancer Screening Now

don’t wait! why women in their 40s should prioritize breast cancer screening now

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Exercise Proven ‘Better Than Drugs’ To Prevent Colon Cancer Recurrence, Study Trial Shows

exercise proven ‘better than drugs’ to prevent colon cancer recurrence, study trial shows

Being one of the most common cancers among women, <span>breast cancer</span> accounts for 30% of cancer cases in females every year. The American Cancer Society explains that breast cancer occurs in middle aged women and older women, the median age of diagnosis being 62 years of age. The average risk of developing breast cancer in women happen to be about 13%. Which means there is a 1 in 8 chance that a woman can develop breast cancer. 

The best cure is prevention, and a new study shows that screening for breast cancer is the best way to tackle the disease. While there are treatments after diagnosis, they not only drastically decrease the quality of life a person is used to, but they must also go through a grueling process, with less chances of survival. One of the best ways to increase your chances of survival in breast cancer is to catch it early. However, by the time symptoms start appearing, the cancer has usually spread, which makes treating it much more difficult. 

The study, published recently in Radiology Imaging Cancer, found that almost three out of four women (73%) in their 40s only discover they have breast cancer after symptoms appear. This is a significant problem because these women are less likely to survive compared to those whose cancer is found early through screening methods like mammography. 

For instance, the study showed that women diagnosed due to symptoms were six times more likely to have advanced cancer, which is much harder to treat. Researchers noted that the results show patients whose breast cancers were detected because of symptoms had a 63% higher likelihood of dying. 

To conduct the study, researchers tracked 821 women aged 40 and older who were diagnosed with breast cancer at The Ottawa Hospital in 2016.

They found that half of these patients (50%) were diagnosed because of symptoms (like a noticeable lump, skin or nipple changes, nipple discharge, swollen lymph nodes, or breast pain), rather than through early detection by a mammogram. 

The study revealed that breast cancers detected by symptoms, rather than screening, were much more common in: 

<ul><li>Women in their 40s, accounting for 73% of cases.</li><li>Women older than 75, with about 70% discovering cancer after symptoms appeared.</li><li>The researchers also reported that deaths were higher among patients whose breast cancer wasn't caught early through screening.</li></ul>

<h2>Shifting Guidelines for Mammograms </h2>

This research comes at a time when both the U.S. and Canada are re-evaluating the best age for women to begin regular mammograms. 

Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its recommendations to suggest breast cancer screening every two years for women aged 40 to 75. 

Similarly, the American Cancer Society now advises women aged 45 to 54 to get annual mammograms, with the option for women in their early 40s to start screening if they choose. 

Experts noted that this difference in guidelines can impact how long Canadian women might live with undetected breast cancer. She observed a concerning trend in her own practice, seeing many women under 50 and over 75 being diagnosed only after developing symptoms. 

These study results will likely bolster the push to lower the breast cancer screening age to 40 in both the U.S. and Canada. Experts mentioned that many provincial and territorial screening programs in Canada have already lowered the screening age, with a goal to establish a single national policy for screening. 

Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Screenings For Women

Cancer Screenings For Women

Cancer Screenings

Breast cancer treatment

Cancer treatment

Being one of the most common cancers among women, breast cancer accounts for 30% of cancer cases in females every year. The American Cancer Society explains that breast cancer occurs in middle aged women and older women, the median age of diagnosis being 62 years of age. The average risk of developing breast cancer in women happen to be about 13%. Which means there is a 1 in 8 chance that a woman can develop breast cancer. The best cure is prevention, and a new study shows that screening for breast cancer is the best way to tackle the disease. While there are treatments after diagnosis, they not only drastically decrease the quality of life a person is used to, but they must also go through a grueling process, with less chances of survival. One of the best ways to increase your chances of survival in breast cancer is to catch it early. However, by the time symptoms start appearing, the cancer has usually spread, which makes treating it much more difficult. The study, published recently in Radiology Imaging Cancer, found that almost three out of four women (73%) in their 40s only discover they have breast cancer after symptoms appear. This is a significant problem because these women are less likely to survive compared to those whose cancer is found early through screening methods like mammography. For instance, the study showed that women diagnosed due to symptoms were six times more likely to have advanced cancer, which is much harder to treat. Researchers noted that the results show patients whose breast cancers were detected because of symptoms had a 63% higher likelihood of dying. Symptoms vs. Screening To conduct the study, researchers tracked 821 women aged 40 and older who were diagnosed with breast cancer at The Ottawa Hospital in 2016.They found that half of these patients (50%) were diagnosed because of symptoms (like a noticeable lump, skin or nipple changes, nipple discharge, swollen lymph nodes, or breast pain), rather than through early detection by a mammogram. The study revealed that breast cancers detected by symptoms, rather than screening, were much more common in: Women in their 40s, accounting for 73% of cases.Women older than 75, with about 70% discovering cancer after symptoms appeared.The researchers also reported that deaths were higher among patients whose breast cancer wasn't caught early through screening.Shifting Guidelines for Mammograms This research comes at a time when both the U.S. and Canada are re-evaluating the best age for women to begin regular mammograms. Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its recommendations to suggest breast cancer screening every two years for women aged 40 to 75. Similarly, the American Cancer Society now advises women aged 45 to 54 to get annual mammograms, with the option for women in their early 40s to start screening if they choose. Experts noted that this difference in guidelines can impact how long Canadian women might live with undetected breast cancer. She observed a concerning trend in her own practice, seeing many women under 50 and over 75 being diagnosed only after developing symptoms. These study results will likely bolster the push to lower the breast cancer screening age to 40 in both the U.S. and Canada. Experts mentioned that many provincial and territorial screening programs in Canada have already lowered the screening age, with a goal to establish a single national policy for screening. 

breast cancer screenings for women in 40s could be life saving

Heart Health Is Much Better Supported By Self-Employment, Especially For Women

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Working in an office has its own set of problems. Work stress has become a common occurrence, to the point where it is considered something people must deal with if they wish to be employed. However, this amount of stress is not natural for the body and can cause adverse effects as stress has been shown to affect a person’s mental health, <span>heart health</span> as well as hormones. 

So how does one tackle this issue, while also not sacrificing their financial well-being? Self-employment may be the answer. Many people these days are opting for it as this helps them have their own time and freedom, while also allowing them to earn a living. 

Being your own boss might seem like it would add stress, but a new study suggests that self-employed women actually have healthier hearts than those who work for a company. 

<h2>Why <span rel="noindex">Self-Employed Women May Be Healthier</span> </h2>

Researchers recently reported in the journal BMC Public Health that women who work for themselves showed lower rates of several factors that contribute to poor heart health. These include: 

<ul><li>Obesity: Carrying too much body fat.</li><li>Physical Inactivity: Not getting enough exercise.</li><li>Poor Diet: Not eating healthy foods.</li><li>Sleeplessness: Not getting enough quality sleep.</li></ul>

These findings hint that the type of work environment someone is in could really influence their risk for heart attack and stroke. 

<h2>Link Between <span rel="noindex">Work and Heart Health</span> </h2>

Researchers explained that there's a strong connection between being self-employed and having fewer heart disease risk factors, and this link seems even stronger for women than for men. 

Experts emphasized that it's crucial to understand how our work environment impacts our health so we can create healthier workplaces for everyone. Previous studies have already shown ties between the kind of job someone has and their heart disease risk. For example, people in high-stress jobs with little control over their work have been linked to higher blood pressure and heart disease. 

For this study, researchers looked at data from nearly 20,000 working adults who participated in a large health survey between 1999 and 2018. This survey included physical exams and questions about their jobs and daily habits. 

The results clearly showed that self-employment was beneficial for heart health risks in both white women and women of color: 

White women who were self-employed had notably lower rates of obesity (7.4% lower), physical inactivity (7% lower), and poor sleep (9.4% lower). 

Women of color saw similar benefits, with lower rates of poor diet (6.7% lower), physical inactivity (7.3% lower), and poor sleep (8.1% lower). 

While it's not realistic for all women to become self-employed, the study's authors suggested that companies could learn from the positive aspects of self-employment, like increased freedom and flexibility. For example, offering flexible work schedules could give women more control over their time and potentially improve their health. 

Interestingly, white men who were self-employed also saw some benefits, such as a drop in poor diet (6.5% lower) and high blood pressure (5.7% lower). However, these same benefits weren't found for self-employed men of color. This might be because men of color often face greater challenges when starting their own businesses, like higher costs to get started, less money available, and fewer mentors to guide them. 

Heart Health

Heart Health and Self-Employment

Self-Employed Women May Be Healthier

Self-employment and health

Women's health

Work and Heart Health

Working in an office has its own set of problems. Work stress has become a common occurrence, to the point where it is considered something people must deal with if they wish to be employed. However, this amount of stress is not natural for the body and can cause adverse effects as stress has been shown to affect a person’s mental health, heart health as well as hormones. So how does one tackle this issue, while also not sacrificing their financial well-being? Self-employment may be the answer. Many people these days are opting for it as this helps them have their own time and freedom, while also allowing them to earn a living. Being your own boss might seem like it would add stress, but a new study suggests that self-employed women actually have healthier hearts than those who work for a company. Why Self-Employed Women May Be Healthier Researchers recently reported in the journal BMC Public Health that women who work for themselves showed lower rates of several factors that contribute to poor heart health. These include: Obesity: Carrying too much body fat.Physical Inactivity: Not getting enough exercise.Poor Diet: Not eating healthy foods.Sleeplessness: Not getting enough quality sleep.These findings hint that the type of work environment someone is in could really influence their risk for heart attack and stroke. Link Between Work and Heart Health Researchers explained that there's a strong connection between being self-employed and having fewer heart disease risk factors, and this link seems even stronger for women than for men. Experts emphasized that it's crucial to understand how our work environment impacts our health so we can create healthier workplaces for everyone. Previous studies have already shown ties between the kind of job someone has and their heart disease risk. For example, people in high-stress jobs with little control over their work have been linked to higher blood pressure and heart disease. What the Study Found For this study, researchers looked at data from nearly 20,000 working adults who participated in a large health survey between 1999 and 2018. This survey included physical exams and questions about their jobs and daily habits. The results clearly showed that self-employment was beneficial for heart health risks in both white women and women of color: White women who were self-employed had notably lower rates of obesity (7.4% lower), physical inactivity (7% lower), and poor sleep (9.4% lower). Women of color saw similar benefits, with lower rates of poor diet (6.7% lower), physical inactivity (7.3% lower), and poor sleep (8.1% lower). While it's not realistic for all women to become self-employed, the study's authors suggested that companies could learn from the positive aspects of self-employment, like increased freedom and flexibility. For example, offering flexible work schedules could give women more control over their time and potentially improve their health. Interestingly, white men who were self-employed also saw some benefits, such as a drop in poor diet (6.5% lower) and high blood pressure (5.7% lower). However, these same benefits weren't found for self-employed men of color. This might be because men of color often face greater challenges when starting their own businesses, like higher costs to get started, less money available, and fewer mentors to guide them. 

heart health is much better supported by self-employment, especially for women

Ishita Roy

'Dinner At 6', Kareena Kapoor Khan Shares What Keeps Her Fit At 44

Try These 6 Low-Impact Cross-Training Moves That Actually Work

try these 6 low-impact cross-training moves that actually work

global running day 2025: how everyday running helps you stay healthy

‘23 Going On 53’: Doctor Claims She Reversed Her Biological Age By 30 Year

‘23 going on 53’: doctor claims she reversed her biological age by 30 year

At 44, <span>Kareena Kapoor Khan</span> is embracing a wellness routine that’s as disciplined as it is effective. In a recent conversation with Nod magazine, the Bollywood star opened up about how her post-COVID lifestyle changes have helped her find balance—both physically and mentally.

Kareena described her daily routine as “almost monastic.” She eats dinner by 6 pm and is usually in bed before 10 pm. “Dinner by 6 pm, lights out by 9.30 pm, morning workouts before the world wakes up,” she said. Her commitment to this early-to-bed, early-to-rise regimen is so strong that her friends have stopped expecting her at parties. “They know I’ll be watching Schitt’s Creek on low volume,” she quipped.

Her strict routine, she believes, is a major contributor to her mental wellness. “If I don’t work out, I’m in a bad mood. Post-COVID, I realized how important <span>fitness</span> is—not for vanity, but for well-being. It’s my mood stabilizer, my anchor,” Kareena explained.

Kareena’s fitness journey has always leaned towards wellness rather than weight loss. Her long-time <span>yoga</span> instructor, Anushka Parwani, revealed that Kareena was her first-ever student. “Kareena is the most aware of her body. She understands when to push and when to pause. That level of awareness is rare,” Anushka said in an interview with ETimes.

Her routine includes a blend of animal flow workouts, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises. But yoga remains her primary companion—helping her maintain core strength, flexibility, and mental calm. “With age comes experience and the wisdom to pause when needed. Kareena embodies that beautifully,” said Anushka.

Another aspect of Kareena’s balanced life is time spent with family in the kitchen. She insists on one proper Indian meal a day and calls it “non-negotiable.” She shared that her husband, Saif Ali Khan, has developed a passion for Kerala cuisine. “He’s always trying out new recipes—idiyappams, coconut-based stews, everything,” she said. “Saif, the kids, and I—we all love cooking together.”

Despite her strict health regimen, Kareena continues to be a busy actor. She was last seen in Singham Again and is currently filming <em>Daayra</em>, directed by Meghna Gulzar and co-starring Malayalam actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran.

Kareena Kapoor Khan’s story is a reminder that fitness isn’t just about physical appearance. It’s about stability, self-awareness, and setting routines that nourish both the body and the mind. Whether it’s waking up before sunrise, skipping parties, or mixing yoga with strength training, Kareena proves that discipline and wellness go hand in hand.

kareena kapoor khan

kareena kapoor khan fitness

Kareena KApoor diet

diet and nutrition

yoga

health and wellness

diet

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fitness

At 44, Kareena Kapoor Khan is embracing a wellness routine that’s as disciplined as it is effective. In a recent conversation with Nod magazine, the Bollywood star opened up about how her post-COVID lifestyle changes have helped her find balance—both physically and mentally.A ‘Monastic’ LifestyleKareena described her daily routine as “almost monastic.” She eats dinner by 6 pm and is usually in bed before 10 pm. “Dinner by 6 pm, lights out by 9.30 pm, morning workouts before the world wakes up,” she said. Her commitment to this early-to-bed, early-to-rise regimen is so strong that her friends have stopped expecting her at parties. “They know I’ll be watching Schitt’s Creek on low volume,” she quipped.Her strict routine, she believes, is a major contributor to her mental wellness. “If I don’t work out, I’m in a bad mood. Post-COVID, I realized how important fitness is—not for vanity, but for well-being. It’s my mood stabilizer, my anchor,” Kareena explained.Fitness for the SoulKareena’s fitness journey has always leaned towards wellness rather than weight loss. Her long-time yoga instructor, Anushka Parwani, revealed that Kareena was her first-ever student. “Kareena is the most aware of her body. She understands when to push and when to pause. That level of awareness is rare,” Anushka said in an interview with ETimes.Her routine includes a blend of animal flow workouts, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises. But yoga remains her primary companion—helping her maintain core strength, flexibility, and mental calm. “With age comes experience and the wisdom to pause when needed. Kareena embodies that beautifully,” said Anushka.A Family That Cooks TogetherAnother aspect of Kareena’s balanced life is time spent with family in the kitchen. She insists on one proper Indian meal a day and calls it “non-negotiable.” She shared that her husband, Saif Ali Khan, has developed a passion for Kerala cuisine. “He’s always trying out new recipes—idiyappams, coconut-based stews, everything,” she said. “Saif, the kids, and I—we all love cooking together.”Work-Life BalanceDespite her strict health regimen, Kareena continues to be a busy actor. She was last seen in Singham Again and is currently filming Daayra, directed by Meghna Gulzar and co-starring Malayalam actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran.Kareena Kapoor Khan’s story is a reminder that fitness isn’t just about physical appearance. It’s about stability, self-awareness, and setting routines that nourish both the body and the mind. Whether it’s waking up before sunrise, skipping parties, or mixing yoga with strength training, Kareena proves that discipline and wellness go hand in hand.

'dinner at 6', kareena kapoor khan shares what keeps her fit at 44

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