Dr. Blossom Kochhar

Perfect DIY Hair Mask: Nourish Dry, Damaged Hair Naturally

Applying hair mask

We love experimenting with our hair, but that comes with its fair share of hair damage and brittleness. Does that mean we just let our hair be their normal self? Actually no, to enhance your looks and bring out your personality it is important to keep changing your hair but it is also important to take goo care of your hair. 

And for those who think hair care can cost a bomb, then follow the below mentioned DIY recipes and you can thank us forever. 

<h4>Rice Water and Fenugreek <span rel="noindex">Hair Mask</span></h4>

<ul><li>Soak two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in rice water overnight.</li><li>Blend the soaked seeds with rice water to form a paste. </li><li>Apply it to your scalp and hair, leaving it on for 45 minutes before washing.</li></ul><strong>Why this pack:</strong> Fenugreek, rich in protein and nicotinic acid, combined with the amino acids in rice water, creates a powerful hair mask. Use this mask bi-weekly to nourish your scalp, strengthen your hair roots, and promote healthy hair growth.

<strong><h4>Avocado &amp; Olive Oil Hair Mask</h4></strong><ul><li>Scoop out the pulp from the avocado and mash it. Now add olive oil to the pulp and mix properly.</li><li>Apply the mixture to your scalp and strands. Leave it on for about an hour before washing your hair. </li><li>Use this mask once a week.</li></ul><strong>Why this pack:</strong> This nourishing mask can fix split ends and make your hair look healthy too. Avocados have minerals that nourish and soften the hair. While olive oil will add extra shine to your dull hair. 

<ul><li>Use one ripe banana and one tablespoon of olive oil.</li><li>Blend or mash the banana until it reaches a lump-free puree. Add the olive oil and continue blending. </li><li>While in the shower, apply the mask throughout the hair and scalp with fingers. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.</li></ul><strong>Why this pack: </strong>Banana hydrates and moisturizes dull, damaged, dry hair, as it's rich in vitamins and minerals (such as potassium) that can strengthen the hair and balance the pH of the scalp," explains Friese. "Olive oil is rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, which can make the hair look shinier and sleeker. It may also moisturize the hair and heal damage that can cause breakage and split ends.

<ul><li>Take 1 bowl of yogurt and add 3-4 drops of lemon juice to it. </li><li>Mix it thoroughly and apply it evenly onto your hair. </li><li>Keep it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off and remember to use a conditioner after.</li></ul><strong>Why this pack: </strong>The astringent properties can effectively cleanse your scalp and get rid of dandruff. It also helps to unclog hair follicles and boost hair growth. Yogurt is known for vitamins and fatty acids which help moisturise your hair.

<ul><li>Melt shea butter and add some coconut oil to it. You can also add argan oil instead of coconut oil. </li><li>Apply it to your scalp and strands. Give it one to two hours to work its magic. After a few hours, wash and condition as usual. </li><li>Use it twice a week.</li></ul><strong>Why this pack:</strong> Shea butter mask is a great way to nourish and hydrate your strands. The nutrients present in this hair pack for dry hair moisturise your strands inside out. 

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skin & hair

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diy hair mask

hair health

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headwah day

When to wash your hair

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We love experimenting with our hair, but that comes with its fair share of hair damage and brittleness. Does that mean we just let our hair be their normal self? Actually no, to enhance your looks and bring out your personality it is important to keep changing your hair but it is also important to take goo care of your hair. And for those who think hair care can cost a bomb, then follow the below mentioned DIY recipes and you can thank us forever. Rice Water and Fenugreek Hair MaskSoak two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in rice water overnight.Blend the soaked seeds with rice water to form a paste. Apply it to your scalp and hair, leaving it on for 45 minutes before washing.Why this pack: Fenugreek, rich in protein and nicotinic acid, combined with the amino acids in rice water, creates a powerful hair mask. Use this mask bi-weekly to nourish your scalp, strengthen your hair roots, and promote healthy hair growth.Avocado & Olive Oil Hair MaskScoop out the pulp from the avocado and mash it. Now add olive oil to the pulp and mix properly.Apply the mixture to your scalp and strands. Leave it on for about an hour before washing your hair. Use this mask once a week.Why this pack: This nourishing mask can fix split ends and make your hair look healthy too. Avocados have minerals that nourish and soften the hair. While olive oil will add extra shine to your dull hair. Banana and Olive Oil Hair MaskUse one ripe banana and one tablespoon of olive oil.Blend or mash the banana until it reaches a lump-free puree. Add the olive oil and continue blending. While in the shower, apply the mask throughout the hair and scalp with fingers. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.Why this pack: Banana hydrates and moisturizes dull, damaged, dry hair, as it's rich in vitamins and minerals (such as potassium) that can strengthen the hair and balance the pH of the scalp," explains Friese. "Olive oil is rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, which can make the hair look shinier and sleeker. It may also moisturize the hair and heal damage that can cause breakage and split ends.Lemon and Yogurt Hair MaskTake 1 bowl of yogurt and add 3-4 drops of lemon juice to it. Mix it thoroughly and apply it evenly onto your hair. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off and remember to use a conditioner after.Why this pack: The astringent properties can effectively cleanse your scalp and get rid of dandruff. It also helps to unclog hair follicles and boost hair growth. Yogurt is known for vitamins and fatty acids which help moisturise your hair.Shea Butter Homemade Hair Mask Melt shea butter and add some coconut oil to it. You can also add argan oil instead of coconut oil. Apply it to your scalp and strands. Give it one to two hours to work its magic. After a few hours, wash and condition as usual. Use it twice a week.Why this pack: Shea butter mask is a great way to nourish and hydrate your strands. The nutrients present in this hair pack for dry hair moisturise your strands inside out. 

perfect diy hair mask: nourish dry, damaged hair naturally

Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

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As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.

Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.

Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.

Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.

To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.

<h2>Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?</h2>

Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:

<ul><li>Sore throat</li><li>Nasal congestion or runny nose</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Muscle aches</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li></ul>

However some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:

<ul><li>Fever or chills</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Loss of taste or smell, new</li><li>Gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea</li></ul>

There is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.

Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.

Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.

If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:

<ul><li>Stay home and rest</li><li>Wear a mask if around others</li><li>Get a COVID-19 test</li><li>Talk to your healthcare provider</li></ul>

Timely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.

<h2>Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?</h2>

While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.

Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."

<h2>How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?</h2>

There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:

<ul><li>Drink plenty of water and moderate your booze</li><li>Consume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins</li><li>Get good rest and reduce stress levels</li><li>Clean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipment</li><li>Supplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune function</li><li>Wash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areas</li></ul>

Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.

If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

nb.1.8.1 covid variant

summer cold vs covid

new covid strain symptoms

summer virus outbreak

covid testing summer

is it covid or cold

nb.1.8.1 symptoms

As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:Sore throatNasal congestion or runny noseFatigueMuscle achesNausea or vomitingHowever some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:Fever or chillsShortness of breathLoss of taste or smell, newGastrointestinal illness such as diarrheaThere is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.What Exactly Is a Summer Cold?Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:Stay home and restWear a mask if around othersGet a COVID-19 testTalk to your healthcare providerTimely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:Drink plenty of water and moderate your boozeConsume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteinsGet good rest and reduce stress levelsClean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipmentSupplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune functionWash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areasWhat If You Do Get Sick?Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

is it just a summer cold or the nb.1.8.1 covid variant? how to tell when the symptoms are nearly identical

Air India Crash May Have Triggered Flight Anxiety In Millions, Expert Shares How To Overcome Aerophobia

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The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from <span>aerophobia</span>, the technical name for the <span>fear of flying</span>, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.

<span>Mental health</span> experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with <span>flight anxiety</span> that are evidence-based and even get over it.

Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude.

"Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." 

Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:

Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.

Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.

Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.

Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.

This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."

<h2>How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?</h2>

If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:

<ul><li>Panic attacks during or prior to flying</li><li>Flight avoidance media</li><li>Overresearching crash records or airline safety</li><li>Repetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)</li><li>Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tension</li></ul>

<h2>Expert-Backed Strategies to Overcome Aerophobia</h2>

While aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.

Challenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.

Practice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.

Rehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.

Crossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.

Travel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.

Begin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.

<h4>7. Professional Assistance is Effective</h4>

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments.

"Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."

<h2>Coping Tools to Practice on the Ground</h2>

Grounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.

Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.

Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.

<h2>Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?</h2>

Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.

<h2>How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?</h2>

There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.

Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

mental health

aerophobia

flight anxiety

fear of flying

air india crash 2025

coping with flight anxiety

The terrifying crash of an Air India flight in Ahmedabad killing 241 people with just one British passenger surviving has sent shockwaves around the world. Although flying is statistically one of the safest ways to travel, such traumatic incidents can revive old terrors in even the most experienced of travelers. To the 25 million Americans who already suffer from aerophobia, the technical name for the fear of flying, this awful news might be more than just upsetting. It might be debilitating.Mental health experts caution that such events can amplify already-existing anxiety, fueling catastrophic thinking and resulting in severe avoidance of travel. And yet, despite the fear, there are ways to deal with flight anxiety that are evidence-based and even get over it.What is Aerophobia?Aerophobia refers to a severe, irrational fear of flight. While some may equate it with fear of a plane crash, most individuals afflicted by the condition actually fear more the sense of intense panic that grips them before or in transit. This encompasses fear of confinement in an airplane, losing control of one's flight, or experiencing a panic attack at altitude."Aviophobia or aerophobia is very prevalent," states Clinical Psychologist Akansha Tayal. "Prevalence rates are 10% to 35%, and most people feel very uncomfortable, particularly when faced with reports of aviation accidents. The fear itself is usually irrational and disproportionate to the real danger posed." Symptoms tend to occur across three areas:Physical: Palpitations of the heart, sweating, dizziness, nausea.Emotional: Irritability, restlessness, overwhelming fear.Cognitive: Catastrophic thinking, obsessive worry, avoidance activities.Even as frightening as crashes might appear, aviation safety has only enhanced. According to a 2023 analysis by MIT scientists, the probability of being killed in a commercial airline accident around the world is approximately 1 in 13.7 million. Even so, the public eye and emotional intensity of aviation disasters often overshadow their statistical infrequency when it comes to those suffering with aerophobia.This psychological effect availability bias is the reason why tragic headlines seem so close to home and threateningly personal. "Our brains are hardwired to respond to threat cues," says Ms Tayal. "Even an unlikely event will feel like a personal risk when it's sensationalized or emotionally jarring."How to Recognize the Signs of Flight Anxiety?If you're avoiding travel, unwilling to get on airplanes, or preoccupied with air safety, you might have clinical aerophobia. In addition to discomfort, you might experience:Panic attacks during or prior to flyingFlight avoidance mediaOverresearching crash records or airline safetyRepetitive behaviors (reviewing weather forecasts, switching seats)Interference with sleep prior to departure or illness due to tensionExpert-Backed Strategies to Overcome AerophobiaWhile aerophobia can feel paralyzing, it’s highly treatable. Experts recommend a mix of self-help techniques and professional interventions.1. Cognitive RestructuringChallenge irrational fears by learning facts about flight safety. Avoid sensational news and instead focus on what you’re looking forward to. Keep a mental list of safe flight experiences.2. Relaxation TechniquesPractice slow breathing with a soothing word such as "peace." It reduces the heart rate and quenches stress hormone activity. Mindfulness techniques and progressive muscle relaxation can also keep your body connected.3. Cope Ahead VisualizationRehearse a peaceful flight experience in your mind—from getting on the plane to arrival. Visualization can get your brain thinking about flying as an ordinary, safe thing.4. Use Distraction ToolsCrossword puzzles, backward counting, reading, or soothing videos can break the worry loop mid-flight.5. Support SystemTravel with a supportive friend and inform them of your triggers. Advance briefing with sympathetic airline personnel can also smooth pre-flight anxiety.6. Gradual Exposure TherapyBegin with short flights or utilize flight simulators to rewire gradually, exposing yourself to incrementally longer flights. Safe repetition is shown to decrease sensitivity over time.7. Professional Assistance is EffectiveCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy are gold-standard treatments. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Virtual Reality Therapy are increasingly proving to be effective treatments."Any psychologist can help the person walk through CBT in order to cope with irrational thoughts," Ms Tayal says. "For tackling these maladaptive thoughts and irrational fears, we do graded exposure, EMDR, or virtual reality. Relaxation training, mindfulness, and grounding are all important too."Coping Tools to Practice on the GroundGrounding Techniques: Utilize the 5 senses to remain engaged in the moment.Mindfulness: Practice non-judgmental attention to your thoughts and bodily sensations.Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Release tension to decrease physiological arousal.Professional Monitoring: When anxiety arises from underlying trauma or generalized anxiety disorder, a psychiatrist may assist in regulating underlying causes.Can Aerophobia Come Back After Treatment?Yes—but long-term results are promising. Research indicates that individuals treated with CBT tend to sustain outcomes for three years or longer. Occasional therapy "booster shots" or regular practice of coping techniques can ward off relapse.How to Prevent and Manage Aerophobia?There is no guaranteed way to prevent aerophobia, but there are some habits of daily living that can definitely minimize its effect. Steering clear of such stimulants as alcohol or caffeine prior to a flight will keep anxiety under control. Open discussion of your apprehension with intimate family members, friends, or a support group is also crucial, as it helps lessen the emotional load. Shying away from solitary confinement is equally crucial—sharing space with people who are going through the same thing can provide reassurance and confirmation. Finally, remaining attuned to your own mental health and being proactive in seeking assistance early, particularly if symptoms persist or intensify, can make a tangible difference in dealing with flight-related anxiety.Flight anxiety exists, and tragedies such as the Air India crash can be daunting but you are not alone, and your fear is not something to be ashamed of. With appropriate tools, techniques, and support, the skies don't have to be so frightening.

air india crash may have triggered flight anxiety in millions, expert shares how to overcome aerophobia

Ishita Roy

Ananda Lewis, Former MTV Host Who Shared Her Breast Cancer Story To The World Passes Away At 52

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Blood Tests Could Reveal Cancer Cells 3 Years Before The Actual Diagnosis

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<span>Ananda Lewis</span>, celebrated TV host known for her authenticity and warmth, passed away at 52 after a long and brave battle with <span>breast cancer</span>. Once a beloved face on BET’s Teen Summit and MTV’s Total Request Live, she used her platform to engage young audiences with pressing social issues and celebrity interviews that left a mark.

Lewis first came into the spotlight through BET’s Teen Summit, where she led candid conversations on challenges facing Black youth. Her interviews with figures like Kobe Bryant, Tupac Shakur, and Hillary Clinton earned her critical acclaim, including an NAACP Image Award.

In 1997, she joined MTV, becoming a key voice on MTV Live, Hot Zone, and TRL. Though her move sparked criticism, she remained unapologetic. “Growth is necessary,” she told the Associated Press. “You’ve got to get out there and live your life.”

She later launched The Ananda Lewis Show in 2001, a daytime talk show aimed at real conversations, even if it followed a familiar format. The show lasted one season, but Lewis remained a powerful presence, later joining The Insider as a correspondent.

<h4>Breast <span rel="noindex">Cancer</span> Journey That She Shared With The World</h4>

In 2020, Lewis revealed that she had been living with stage 3 breast cancer since 2018—later advancing to stage 4. Her diagnosis came after years of ignoring persistent inflammation linked to mastitis from breastfeeding. A lump discovered in her right breast led to a biopsy, confirming it was invasive carcinoma.

Instead of following a conventional medical path, Lewis chose alternative treatments. “I wanted to understand why my body created cancer and how to change the terrain,” she explained. She focused on diet changes, stress management, detoxing, and holistic therapies like high-dose vitamin C, acupuncture, and cryoablation.

Lewis moved to Arizona in 2020 for 16 weeks of intensive integrative treatment. Her cancer reduced from stage 3 to 2 and was no longer in her lymph nodes. But the journey wasn’t without hardship—financial struggles and insurance lapses made consistent treatment difficult.

In early 2023, a scan showed the tumor had grown slightly, but it had not spread. She underwent electrical ablation in Mexico, which unfortunately didn’t succeed. By October 2023, a PET scan confirmed the cancer had advanced to stage 4. Still, Lewis continued treatment and saw significant improvement by January 2024.

Lewis was candid about her journey, using her story to raise awareness about early detection and holistic health. “Stage 4 doesn’t mean the end,” she said. “It means I have to do more.”

Her message to women was clear: be proactive. Prioritize mammograms, manage stress, sleep well, and adopt a clean lifestyle. “If I had known what I know now ten years ago, perhaps I wouldn’t have ended up here,” she said.

“I want to look back and say—I did that exactly how I wanted to,” Lewis reflected. Her legacy is one of resilience, wisdom, and an enduring belief in the right to choose one’s own path—even through cancer.

Ananda Lewis cancer survivor dies at 52

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Ananda lewis cancer survivor

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Ananda Lewis, celebrated TV host known for her authenticity and warmth, passed away at 52 after a long and brave battle with breast cancer. Once a beloved face on BET’s Teen Summit and MTV’s Total Request Live, she used her platform to engage young audiences with pressing social issues and celebrity interviews that left a mark.A Powerful Presence on ScreenLewis first came into the spotlight through BET’s Teen Summit, where she led candid conversations on challenges facing Black youth. Her interviews with figures like Kobe Bryant, Tupac Shakur, and Hillary Clinton earned her critical acclaim, including an NAACP Image Award.In 1997, she joined MTV, becoming a key voice on MTV Live, Hot Zone, and TRL. Though her move sparked criticism, she remained unapologetic. “Growth is necessary,” she told the Associated Press. “You’ve got to get out there and live your life.”She later launched The Ananda Lewis Show in 2001, a daytime talk show aimed at real conversations, even if it followed a familiar format. The show lasted one season, but Lewis remained a powerful presence, later joining The Insider as a correspondent.Breast Cancer Journey That She Shared With The WorldIn 2020, Lewis revealed that she had been living with stage 3 breast cancer since 2018—later advancing to stage 4. Her diagnosis came after years of ignoring persistent inflammation linked to mastitis from breastfeeding. A lump discovered in her right breast led to a biopsy, confirming it was invasive carcinoma.Instead of following a conventional medical path, Lewis chose alternative treatments. “I wanted to understand why my body created cancer and how to change the terrain,” she explained. She focused on diet changes, stress management, detoxing, and holistic therapies like high-dose vitamin C, acupuncture, and cryoablation.A Different Kind of BattleLewis moved to Arizona in 2020 for 16 weeks of intensive integrative treatment. Her cancer reduced from stage 3 to 2 and was no longer in her lymph nodes. But the journey wasn’t without hardship—financial struggles and insurance lapses made consistent treatment difficult.In early 2023, a scan showed the tumor had grown slightly, but it had not spread. She underwent electrical ablation in Mexico, which unfortunately didn’t succeed. By October 2023, a PET scan confirmed the cancer had advanced to stage 4. Still, Lewis continued treatment and saw significant improvement by January 2024.Lewis was candid about her journey, using her story to raise awareness about early detection and holistic health. “Stage 4 doesn’t mean the end,” she said. “It means I have to do more.”Her message to women was clear: be proactive. Prioritize mammograms, manage stress, sleep well, and adopt a clean lifestyle. “If I had known what I know now ten years ago, perhaps I wouldn’t have ended up here,” she said.“I want to look back and say—I did that exactly how I wanted to,” Lewis reflected. Her legacy is one of resilience, wisdom, and an enduring belief in the right to choose one’s own path—even through cancer.

ananda lewis, former mtv host who shared her breast cancer story to the world passes away at 52

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