Obesity scare! Delhi bellies are too big for health

The study measured obesity based on BMI ( body mass index) — body weight divided by the square of height. If obesity is measured as percentage body fat, close to 85 per cent of the population would qualify as obese, according to the study carried out by scientists from India and the US. The study involved 459 people — 217 men and 242 women — with an average age of 42 years.

Obesity scare

Besides BMI, researchers measured waist size, blood glucose, percentage body fat, total abdominal fat, fat tissue in abdomen or intra- abdominal adipose tissue. As high as 50.1 per cent of the people were obese based on their BMI. The study also found high abdominal obesity as indicated by various parameters such as waist size, Close to 69 per cent people were found to have larger than adequate waist size while close of 71 per cent had high fat in their abdomen.

“ Body fat is a true indicator of obesity but requires expensive apparatus to measure it. It is an accepted measure but BMI is used to measure obesity due to its simplicity,” said Anoop Misra of National Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Diseases Foundation, lead author scientist of the study published in journal PLoS One.

Over 45 per cent people had risk factors or metabolic syndrome which predispose them to development of diabetes and heart disease.

Approximately nine per cent of people suffered from diabetes and about 29 per cent had high blood pressure. The study also found high abdominal obesity as indicated by various parameters such as waist size, abdominal fat and intra- abdominal adipose tissue.

“The data is glaring and worrying. High prevalence of generalised obesity and abdominal obesity in urban Asian Indians in north India need immediate public health intervention,” Misra pointed out.

The high percentage of people with abdominal obesity is also a matter of concern because such obesity is associated with risk of diseases, scientists said.

The prevalence of abdominal obesity in Delhi — 70 — is higher than in urban population of Chennai at 46.6 per cent.

Women were found to be more obese at waist at close to 75 per cent than man at around 62 per cent.

The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity are linked to sedentary lifestyles and lack of physical inactivity.

DATA PAINTS A SCARY PICTURE

• As high as 50.1 per cent of people were obese based on BMI or ratio of weight and height
• Close to 85 per cent were obese based on percentage body fat
• Around 69 per cent of the people had larger than adequate waist size
• Around 71 per cent had high fat in their abdomen
• Over 45 per cent of people had risk factors called metabolic syndrome which predispose one to development of diabetes and heart disease
• Around 68 per cent of the population had high fat under the skin. Indians have more fat under the skin in comparison to westerners and this is what is more injurious to health

Best Tips On How To Impress A Girl

Best Tips On How To Impress A Girl
 
When you find that specific and particular girl, you always want to impress her but scared of getting her offended. But guys it is 21st century and most of the guys find it really hard to impress a girl, and when that girl is the one you want; you always end up in having your shaking legs and speechless mouth.

There are ways to impress a girl that will make the girl want you more and notice you more. And it is Valentine’s Day coming too, hurry up and read the post below, the tips guys need to impress girls are here!
 
Make a cool appearance

It is very necessary to make a cool and neat appearance of you whenever you go in front of that girl. It will look great to her and of course yourself.

 Never Show off

Girls actually hate the show off thing; don’t ever put a fake appearance or something that you are not. Be yourself and do your best. That will surely impress girls.

 Respect and Admiration

Always respect and admire the girl, because girls love when you admire them, treat her with kindness.

 Meaningful talk

While talking to her don’t discuss controversial issues and don’t talk endlessly. Especially discuss things that have her interest and surely will catch your attention.

 Take interest in her interests

Listen carefully to whatever girls says or in which she has interest. Respond to the talking quickly and throw back the questions to her to make her keep talking about that subject.
 
Compliment

Compliment her on her eyes, attire, hairs, looks and talking style, don’t talk about how hot figure she has. Girls love it when they are complimented on the looks or other features.

 Respect her friends

When it comes to colleagues and friends, girls are very possessive about them, either you like them or not try to become the good guy that respects her friends

 Politeness

Always try to act politely and have the best behavior, because these two things can make you a perfect guy.

 Humor

Be humorous sometimes, because girls love the humor factor about guys, crack jokes but only then when it is required otherwise try to take things seriously.
 
Be a good listener

Be the one who can give a shoulder to her when she is sad, as girls are always emotional so make her laugh with your jokes sometimes and listen to her always.

Top 5 foods to help you sleep

Whether it’s a one-off occurrence before a big event or a nightly struggle, most of us suffer from insomnia at one time or another. Fortunately, there are many foods that can help you sleep a little easier. To help you relax and catch some Zs, check out our top 5 foods to help you sleep.

Read more:
The best quick fix diet plan
Coffee: Friend or foe?
21 expert diet tips
Stop ageing, look young

Dairy products
If you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep, foods containing tryptophan should be a first port of call. Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, helps to raise serotonin and melatonin levels in the body, both of which can help induce sleep. While turkey is a famously good source of tryptophan, other (perhaps more bedtime-friendly) sources include dairy products such as yoghurt and milk.
On top of their tryptophan levels, dairy snacks are also a great source of calcium, which helps the brain to use tryptophan to create melatonin. Research has also suggested that a deficiency of calcium in the diet can cause disturbed sleep patterns and a lack of deep (REM) sleep.
Oats
While many of us associate oats with breakfast time, they are also the perfect evening snack. Oats are a good natural source of melatonin, which is often taken as a sleep aid due to its ability to help regulate the body's internal clock. They are also another good source of tryptophan, especially when combined with milk.
Furthermore, oats are rich in both calcium and magnesium; two minerals that have been proven to promote good quality sleep. For a warm, soothing snack before bed, try eating a small bowl of porridge to help you drift off, combined with any of the following toppings to help double its effects.
Bananas
If you suffer from muscle spasms or cramps during the night, it may be that you are deficient in the electrolytes magnesium and potassium, both of which help to relax muscles and keep them functioning properly. Fortunately, bananas are excellent source of both minerals, making them a good bedtime snack, particularly after a heavy exercise session.
As well as being rich in these essential minerals, bananas also contain tryptophan, which can help to promote sleep. Researchers from the University of New England in New South Wales have also found that having a banana before bed can help sufferers of sleep apnea by keeping their throats open and therefore reducing the risk of choking.
Cherries
For those who have trouble sleeping, you may be familiar with over-the-counter melatonin supplements used to treat insomnia. However, while melatonin can help to regulate sleep, it may be unwise to rely on supplements for long-term use. Fortunately, cherries provide a great natural source of melatonin as well as being excellent for overall health.
A research study published in The Journal of Sleep and Sleep Disorders Research has indicated that consuming tart cherries before bed helped participants sleep faster and easier, making fresh cherries or cherry juice a great natural sleep aid.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are great for increasing levels of sleep-regulating substance serotonin in the body due to their high levels of both tryptophan and omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, the omega-3 fatty acids they contain have been proven to help reduce the anxiety, depression and stress which are leading causes of insomnia, and have been shown to be effective against the condition sleep apnea.
Not only that, flax seeds are a good source of magnesium, which is renowned for its ability to reduce stress due to its relaxing effect on the muscles and nervous system. Magnesium has also been shown to help prevent restless leg syndrome and night terrors; both of which can affect sleep.

பெண் கடவுள்களின் நவராத்திரி விரதம்

பெண் கடவுள்களின் நவராத்திரி விரதம்


பரலக்ஷ்மி வருகை

பெண் தெய்வங்கள் 9 இரவுகள் கடுமையான விரதம் இருந்து அசுரர்களை வதம் செய்தனர்.அனைத்து பெண் தெய்வங்களும் இனைந்து வதம் செய்வதற்காக உருவாக்கபட்டவரே பரலக்ஷ்மி. இந்த பரலக்ஷ்மியைதான் ராதா என்று அழைக்கிறார்கள்.பரலக்ஷ்மி என்பதில் பரா என்றால் சுப்பீரிம் என்று பொருள்படும்.

ஒவ்வொரு வருடமும் செப்டம்பர் மற்றும் அக்டோம்பர் மாதங்களில் நமது தேவியர்களின் வம்சாவளியை போற்றும் விதமாக நவராத்திரிவிழா கொண்டாடபட்டு வருகிறது.இந்த 9நாட்களிலும் இரவு நேரத்தில் துர்கையை வழிபடுகின்றனர். இந்த வழிபாட்டில் அலைமகள்,மலைமகள்,கலைமகள் ஆகிய மூவரின் முன்னிலையில் தான் 9நாட்களிலும் விரதம் மேற்கொள்கின்றனர்.விரதம் மேற்கொள்ளும் போது மனிதர்களின் தீய குணங்களான வெறுப்பு,பொறாமை,அறியாமை,பேராசை,போன்ற அனைத்து குணங்களையும் மனதில் இருந்து நீக்கி விட வேண்டும். 9தாம் நாள் தான் அசுரர்களை வதம் செய்யும் நிகழ்ச்சி நடைபெறுகிறது.
இது தெய்வங்களின் ஜோதிட முறைப்படி ஆண்டு தோறும் நடைபெறுகின்றது.நவராத்திரி பூஜை மாங்கல்யம் ஆனவர்களாள் கொண்டாடபடுகிறது.அதன் பின்பு நிலா வளம் வருகிறது

பெண் தெய்வங்களின் 3 முக்கிய நிகழ்வுகள்:
9நாட்களிலும் இரவு நேர வழிபாட்டில் தங்களுடைய குறைகள்,நன்மைகள்,தீமைகள் அனைத்தையும் சமர்பிக்கின்றனர்

முதல் மூன்று நாட்கள் துர்க்கை வழிபாடு:
துர்க்கை வழிபாட்டில் நோய்கள்,கிரக சூழ்நிலை,ஜோதிட தாக்கங்கள் ஆகியவற்றை -குறிப்பிடுகின்றனர்.

நடுவில் உள்ள 3 இரவும் லக்ஷ்மி வழிபாடு:
லக்ஷ்மி வழிபாட்டில் வற்றாத செல்வம் மற்றும் மனவளம் வேண்டும் என சமர்பிக்கின்றனர்

வேத ஜோதிடத்தின் படி லக்ஷ்மி வீனஸ் கிரகத்திற்கு அதிபராக வளம் வருகின்றார்.அதனால் நம் வாழ்வின் இன்பத்திற்கும் வசதிகளுக்குக்காகவும் வேண்டிகொள்ளலாம்

கடைசி 3 இரவுகளில் சரஸ்வதி வழிபாடு:
அறிவு,ஆற்றல்,தீய சக்திகளை எதிர்க்கும் தன்மைகாக வேண்டி கொள்ளலாம்.சரஸ்வதி கிரகத்திற்கு அதிபராக இல்லாமல் இருந்தாலும் ஆற்றல்,பாகுபாடு போன்றவைகளில் வல்லவராக விளங்குகிறார்


இந்த நவராத்திரியின் சிறப்பு 9 நாளும் விரதம் மேற்கொண்டு அசுரர்களை அழிக்கும் நிகழ்ச்சி 9தாம் நாள் இரவு நடைபெறுகிறது.நவராத்திரியின் வெற்றியாக பத்தாவது நாள் இரவு வரை விஜய தசமி கொண்டாடபடுகிறது

நவராத்திரி நிகழ்ச்சிகான அட்டவனை

தேதி கடவுள் அர்ச்சனை
செப்-27 துர்க்கை பட்டீஸ்வரம் கோவிலில் துர்க்கைக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
செப்-28 துர்க்கை வேதஜோதிட கோவிலில் துர்க்கைக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
செப்-29 துர்க்கை வேதஜோதிட கோவில்

நேரடி ஒலிபரப்பினை காண
செப்-30 லக்ஷ்மி திருவலுந்தர்கோவிலில் லக்ஷ்மிக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
அக்-1 லக்ஷ்மி வேதஜோதிட கோவிலில் துர்க்கைக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
அக்-2 பரலக்ஷ்மி அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்

அக்-3 சரஸ்வதி கூதனுர்கோவிலில் சரஸ்வதிக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
அக்-4 சரஸ்வதி வேதஜோதிட கோவிலில் துர்க்கைக்கு அர்ச்சனையும் ஆராதனையும் நடைபெறும்
அக்-5 மகாஅஷ்டமி வேதஜோதிட கோவில்

Top 8 Ayurvedic Herbs

Top 8 Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine used in India and other Eastern countries. Much like Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Ayurvedic approach is holistic, and looks to address the root cause of disease, as opposed to simply treating a list of symptoms.

Ayurvedic herbs are commonly used as foods or culinary spices, and help to restore balance to the body. In Ayurvedic terms, when disease is present, it is the result of an imbalance in one of the three doshas, or the body’s vital energy.
These are pitta (fire), vata (air) and kapha (water). Herbs and food alike are used as part of a therapeutic regimen which may also include yoga, meditation and cleansing techniques.

The following herbs are considered a few of the most important remedies in Ayurvedic medicine.

They can be commonly found in most natural health food stores and herbal markets. Remember holistic treatments such as herbs are meant to complement, and not replace medical care.

Talk to your health care practitioner before using herbs for medicinal purposes.

 01. ASHWAGANDHA

Although traditionally an Ayurvedic herb, ashwagandha is now commonly used in herbal medicine throughout the West. Also known as winter cherry, it is naturally antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and has immune-boosting properties.

It is your first line of defense against cancer and other immune system-related diseases. It helps improve vitality and combat insomnia, cancer, arthritis and diabetes.


02. BOSWELLIA

Boswellia, known as Shallaki in Ayurveda, is an excellent pain remedy. It is naturally anti-inflammatory and analgesic. In the west it is called Frankincense, and has been used to treat both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, gout, and general aches and pains. Studies have even shown that taking boswellia can alleviate arthritis pain in as little as 7 days without the harmful side effects of over-the-counter NSAIDs.


03. CORIANDER (CILANTRO)

Coriander, or dhanyaka as it is referred to in Ayurveda, is a common culinary spice in both Asian and Latin cuisine. The fresh leaves are called cilantro, while the ground seeds are called coriander. Both contain natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The herb is used in Ayurveda to treat indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, fevers, respiratory infections and allergies. It is also a natural chelating agent, and has been used to help remove heavy metals from the body.


04. GARLIC

Garlic is revered by both chefs and herbalists alike. The Ayurvedic name for the herb is Lasuna. It is a prolific bulb that is used for a number of purposes. It is naturally antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial. It has been shown to be effective against the common cold and flu, and help enhance immune function.

It is used in both holistic and conventional medical circles to protect against heart disease and lower cholesterol. Garlic is a must-have for the home medicine cabinet.


05. GINGER

Ginger, or shunti, is another versatile herbal remedy that doubles as a cooking spice. The root, or rhizome, is used to treat anything from benign conditions such as indigestion and nausea to more serious chronic problems such as arthritis and migraines. It is easily made into and herbal tea and makes a great home remedy tohave on hand.


06. GYMNEMIA SYLVESTRE

Shardunikagurmar, or more commonly, gymnema, is one Ayurvedic herb which has undergone extensive study. It has been found to be effective in treating and preventing type II diabetes because it appears to help control blood sugar levels. It can be used as a natural sweetener, or taken in capsule form.


07. TRIPHALA (AMLA, BIBHITAKI AND HARITAKI)

Amla, bibhitaki and haritaki are actually three herbs used together exclusively in an Ayurvedic formula known as triphala.

Amla is used to treat digestive disorders such as indigestion, gas, constipation, colitis and ulcers.

Bibhitaki is likewise used to treat digestive disorders, including Chron’s disease, intestinal parasites and gall stones.

Haritaki is used specifically for constipation, but is also effective for hemorrhoids, dysentery and parasites or worms.

Together these three herbs make a powerful internal cleansing remedy. They help restore balance and improve regularity. However, they are used only on a period basis due to their cathartic effect.

 08. TURMERIC

Turmeric, or haridra, is the Indian spice which gives curry its golden color. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, but it has also been studied scientifically in modern day. It is naturally anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and helps strengthen the immune system.

It has been shown to be effective in treating arthritis, diabetes and even cancer. Keep this herb handy in the spice rack!

India now ruled by..

Amma in South 

     

Didi in East 

Bhenji in North 

 

 

 

 Auntie the Capital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Madam in Center 

 

 

  

 Nani on top (the president)

&

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And yet people say.. It’s a Man's World . . . . . . .?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

where are the Indian Men ????!!!!

Top 10 Ways to Show Confidence With Body Language

They say a picture is worth a thousand words; now picture yourself, approaching a woman or a prospective client, walking into a board meeting or a party. How do you look? What message do you communicate the moment you walk into a room? What are your eyes, hands and shoulders saying? What information can people gather about you before you ever say a word? Never thought about it? You should. And you can start by perusing our top 10 tips to show confidence with body language.

People read your body language, often via instinct and without thinking. It’s because our poses and postures are a great source of information. They reflect our mood and our confidence level. We stand and walk a certain way when we’re confident and another way when we’re nervous. In a glance, most people can discern if we’re apprehensive or outgoing, relaxed or aggressive. With a little practice, we can learn the tips to show confidence through body language so that we always appear confident, capable and ready. Top 10 Ways to Show Confidence With Body Language...after the break...

01. Avoid your pockets

The first tip on our list of the top 10 tips to show confidence with body language is to keep your hands out of your pockets. We put our hands in our pockets when we’re uncomfortable or unsure of ourselves. And as long as you have your hands stuffed down your pants, that’s how other people will view you.

Instinctually we tend to hide our hands when we’re nervous; keeping your hands out in the open indicates confidence and shows people you have nothing to hide. Also, recognize that putting your hands in your pockets encourages slouching, which isn’t good. As an alternative, try putting your hands on your hips; it’s a far more confident posture.

02. Don’t fidget

Fidgeting is a clear sign of nervousness. A man who can’t keep still, is a man who is worried, tense and certainly not confident. Your hands can be your worst enemies — fight to keep them still and steady. You can definitely talk with your hands, but keep your gesticulations calm and under control. Also, when seated, avoid that rapid leg-vibration thing that some guys do (you don’t want to look like a dog getting his belly rubbed).

03. Keep your eyes forward

Keeping your eyes level might be one of the trickiest ways to show confidence in body language. When you’re walking anywhere by yourself, it often feels natural to lower your head slightly and watch your step, but this posture communicates to others that you don’t want to engage in conversation or interact. And if you’re not careful, you might get into the habit of doing it all the time. Keep your chin up and your eyes forward, even when you’re walking down the street by yourself.

04. Stand up straight with your shoulders back

Standing up straight is one of the most important of our top 10 tips to project confidence through body language. It can be a challenge especially if you’ve been a sloucher all your life, but get over it. Standing up straight is perhaps the most important means of communicating confidence. 

Concentrate on pushing your shoulders back slightly when standing and walking. Nothing major,just a little. That one simple motion does wonders for your posture. Try it in front of the mirror—you’ll be surprised how much more confident it makes you look.

05. Take wide steps

A confident man will never be described as “scurrying,” “creeping” or “sneaking,” so pay attention to the way you walk. If you want to show confidence with body language you want to take large steps. Wide steps make you seem purposeful and suggest a personal tranquility, which denotes confidence in a man.

06. Firm handshakes

Another of our top 10 tips for showing confidence with body language has to do with the firm handshake. There are few things worse than reaching out your hand during an introduction and getting a palm full of dead fish. Don’t be that guy. Instead, grip the other person’s hand firmly and confidently. If shaking hands with someone you’ve already met, you might even consider the two-hand grab: placing your free hand on the other person’s elbow adds warmth and enthusiasm to the handshake. Just don’t get carried away. A handshake is not a contest. Don’t try to crush the other person’s hand and don’t hold on too long.

07. Proper grooming

Imagine yourself walking into a room, maybe there are lots of beautiful women there or maybe the room is filled with respected colleagues. Now consider your appearance: four days’ worth of scruff, bad skin, hair crispy and pointy like a Backstreet Boy’s. The point we’re trying to make is that grooming is an essential component of communicating confidence through body language. 

You want your hair, face and even your smell to work for you, not against you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new products to find the ones that work for you.

08. Smile

Confident people smile because they have nothing to worry about. Try this as an experiment: smile at someone as you pass them on the street or walking around the office. Chances are good that they’ll smile back. Now wouldn’t you like to have that effect on people all the time?

09. Don’t cross your arms when socializing

Crossing your arms is a protective posture. We do it when we’re cold, nervous or on guard. Think of those big, burly nightclub bouncers, crossing their 26-inch pythons while standing guard at the door to a club. Do they look like guys you want to talk to, joke with or work with? No, right? Their job is to look intimidating. Your job is to look likeable, open and confident. So relax a little and keep your arms uncrossed.

10. Use contact to show appreciation

The pat on the back is a lost art. Don’t be afraid to pat a buddy or a colleague on the back when he or she delivers a perfectly timed punch line or nails the big presentation. Most people aren’t freaked out by a hand on the shoulder and they’ll likely be appreciative of your sign of affection and respect.

Five Super Foods for Keeping your Bones Healthy

A strong skeletal frame is vital not only to provide structure to the body but also protect the internal organs and anchor the muscles.

Apart from this, a healthy set of bones is crucial for good posture, balance and strength. Now the two key nutrients responsible for developing healthy strong bones are calcium and phosphorus. Smaller amounts of other nutrients like vitamins, proteins and minerals are also important for healthy bones.

The process of developing healthy bones begins at birth. However, it is important that a healthy, bone-friendly diet programme is maintained all throughout the life. This becomes particularly important after about 30 years of age.

You of course have the option of going for calcium supplements (but do consult a doctor before you do that), you can also try some calcium-rich foods to make up for the deficiency of calcium and keeping the bones healthy. Below, we discuss five super foods which can help you boost your bone density at any age:

masshealthy.com

Milk

Without a shadow of doubt, milk is the best (and readily available) source of calcium required for proper bone growth. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), low fat or fat-free milk is the best choice as it has high calcium content without the added fat and this facilitates easy absorption of calcium by the body. And it's not just calcium. Milk is also rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium, riboflavin, phosphorus and Vitamins D, A and B12, all of which are important for healthy bones.

pittmandavis.com

Orange Juice

Oranges are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and calcium. They are a must-have for healthy bone growth. They can be especially used by individuals who have intolerance to lactose and cannot obtain their daily calcium requirements from dairy products. So next time you help yourself with a serving of fruits, make sure you have enough oranges in that.

grocerycompany.com

Dairy Products

Many experts have designated dairy products like cheese and yogurt as preferred source of calcium due to their high calcium levels. In case you are lactose intolerant, you can also opt for other dairy products that are either lactose-free or have low levels of lactose. Yogurt is contains a chemical called lactoferrin which an iron-binding protein which promotes the growth and activity of osteoblasts (the cells that build bones).

livestrong.com

Nuts and Seeds

Besides being rich in calcium, nuts like walnuts, flaxseeds, almonds, pistachios etc are also very good sources of minerals and omega 3 fatty acids. Peanuts and calcium contain potassium which prevents loss of calcium in urine.

Wikipedia

Greens

Dark green leafy veggies like brocolli and spinach are great sources of calcium and vitamin D and it's the latter which helps in absorption of Calcium and Phosphorus, thereby ensuring growth of healthy bones and teeth. Collards and turnip greens can also be helpful in providing you with your daily dose of calcium. The alkaline effect of eating a diet rich in these vegetables will help you to strengthen your bones and promote bone growth by preventing calcium loss. Besides, plant sterols (steroid hormones) are converted to a hormone called calciferol and that aids calcium absorption. (MensXP.com)

8 important manners you should teach your little ones

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We all want to raise our little ones to be polite and well behaved, and learning those lessons starts at home. It's never too early to teach your little ones basic manners! Here are eight of the most important manners you should try to teach your little ones before they go to school. They won't remember them all, or get them right every time, but patience and perseverance should get you through:

1.    Always say please and thank you. 

Whether they're activities as small as giving your little one a snack, or them asking if they can play in the garden, always reinforce the importance of saying please and thank you. No matter how young your children are, you can't start enforcing this rule too early!

2.    Table manners

When your tiny tots are just learning to eat at the table, start teaching them the manners you'd like them to have for the rest of their lives! Rules like not eating with their mouths open, or not putting their elbows on the table, are good life lessons for your children to learn as soon as possible.

3.    Play dates

When you're little ones go on play dates, or to birthday parties, remind them to thank their friends parents for having them over. If you aren't going to be attending the play date or event with your little one, ensure your little ones know they should treat their friends parents (and all grown-ups) with the same respect they treat you.

4.    Birthday party etiquette

It's often said that kids go wild at birthday parties - all the sweet snacks and fun can make little ones get excited, and sometimes forget their manners. But no matter how excited your little one is on their birthday, there are some manners they shouldn't forget: to open their presents thoughtfully (not ripping off the paper, or tossing the present to one side as soon as they've seen it) and to say thank you for every gift, and to every attendee.

5.    Mind the language

There will come a moment every parent dreads: the moment your little one swears. And then finds it funny! The worst thing you can do in this scenario is laugh. Let them know that you already know that word, you think it's unpleasant, not funny, and ask your little one not to use it again!

6.    Don't be mean

Kids tease each other, and they find it funny. But this can sometimes go a step too far and lead to bullying. Make sure your little ones don't call others mean names, and don't make fun of anyone for any reason. Ganging up on someone else is cruel, not clever.

7.    Excuse me!

Once your little ones have mastered saying please and thank you, teach them to say excuse me. It's the polite thing to say when you have to interrupt someone, or bump into somebody.

8.    TMI!

There are some things that are too much information, and that your little ones shouldn't talk about in public! These include genitals, poo, nose picking, and all the other gory things that amuse kids!

10 global health habits we can learn from other cultures

Cook with fresh, quality ingredients

Many of us are guilty of turning to pre-prepared, processed foods when we’re in a hurry, but these are often packed with salt, sugar and additives which are damaging to our health. Instead, we should take our lead from countries such as Italy and Japan who rely on fresh, seasonal produce for their healthy cuisines. Try frequenting local markets to pick up fresh goods, or you could even take inspiration from Russia where it is common for families to grow their own food.

Choose fish over meat

Red meat is a staple of many of our diets, which is perhaps one of the reasons for the high levels of heart disease across the world. For a healthier protein option, take inspiration from the Japanese and Icelandic diets and stock up on seafood. Not only is fish good for heart health, but a study has suggested that the Icelandic diet – high in Omega-3-rich fish – may be responsible for their unexpectedly low rate of seasonal affective disorder, or the “winter blues”.

Don’t cut out food groups

Many of us drift from one food fad to another, cutting out carbs one week and fats the next. However, we should take note of the Mediterranean diet, which is widely renowned to be one of the world’s healthiest diets and which embraces the idea of all things in moderation. Not only does the Mediterranean diet feature carbs, dairy and wine, but one of its particular characteristics is its abundant use of olive oil. Rather than cutting out food groups entirely, take inspiration from this diet and try to choose healthier options, such as monounsaturated fats, and eat them in moderation.

Enjoy your food

If you’re prone to eating on the run or in front of the TV, take a lesson from European cultures such as France and Italy where food is savoured and enjoyed in a more leisurely fashion. Taking longer meals and focusing on what you are eating – rather than what’s happening on the TV – will help you to enjoy your food more and cut the risk of overeating. As it takes 20 minutes for your body to register the feeling of being full, this will also help you to eat less. Try also eating with others, which will make you more aware of how much – and how quickly – you are eating.

Read more: Revealed! The secret of why diets don't work

Stop eating before you're completely full

Taking note of when you start to feel full is one of the most important steps to maintaining a healthy weight. Not only will eating more slowly help you to recognise this feeling, but by stopping eating at the very first signs of fullness you can help to avoid overeating and reduce your appetite. The Okinawans – who are reputed to have the world’s longest life expectancy – traditionally adhere to the practise of eating until they are 80 per cent full; a habit known as hara hachi bu.

Ditch the car

While lots of us hit the gym a couple of times a week, research shows that regular daily activity could be more effective than sporadic workouts - and this is an area where many of us are lacking. While we’re not suggesting you ditch your workout entirely, to boost your health and fitness try taking inspiration from the Netherlands, where it is said there are more bikes than people and where cycling is a popular method of transport. Try squeezing in more everyday activity like walking or cycling to the shops or work, or simply taking the stairs rather than using the lift.

Drink with meals

We all know the dangers alcohol poses to our health, but drinking wine (particularly red) actually has health benefits when drunk in moderation. Rather than binge drinking to get drunk, try adopting Mediterranean habits of drinking wine in moderation and with meals, and try to savour each glass. Not only will this help to cut the health risks associated with alcohol (not to mention the calories) but drinking wine can also help to increase good cholesterol and cut heart disease risk.

Eat more spices

Whether you love Indian dishes or are more partial to Mexican cuisine, eating spicy foods could help you lose weight and boost your health. According to a study conducted by the University of California at Los Angeles, turmeric – a spice found in many curries – could help slow Alzheimer’s, which may explain the low instance of the disease among the ageing population of India. Chilli peppers meanwhile can help you lose weight by speeding up your metabolism and making you eat slowly; thereby giving your brain more time to register fullness.

Read more: 10 tips to save money on food bills

Take a nap

The Spanish have a long-held tradition of taking an afternoon siesta, and many Japanese have also embraced the idea of power naps to get them through long working days. So, are we missing out by powering through? According to abundant research, the answer could be yes. Sleep can help you live longer, increase weight loss, boost memory and reduce stress. A six-year Greek study has also discovered that those who took a half hour nap at least three times a week had 37% less risk of dying of heart disease, proving that this may well be a health trend we should take note of.

Have some family time

Research findings published in the journal Plos Medicine have indicated that having strong ties to family and friends can help you live longer, which may be one reason for the renowned good health of Italians, who are known for their close-knit families. A survey of people in 11 different countries – including the US, UK and Australia – also revealed that Brazilians spent the most time with their families (an average of 74 hours per week) and had one of the lowest stress levels. So, take a leaf out of their book and schedule in some family time to give your health a boost.

Tirupathi Importance

Find some more details about Tirupathi…

அறிந்து கொள்வோம். திருப்பதி செல்கிறோம், திருவேங்கடமுடையான் ஏழுமலை வாசனை வணங்கி மகிழ்கின்றோம். ஆனால் திருப்பதியில் நம்மில்சிலருக்குத் தெரியாத அதிசயங்கள், உண்மைகள், நடைமுறைகள் எவ்வளவோ உள்ளன. அவற்றிவ் சிலவற்றை தொகுத்துவழங்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. பிரம்மிக்க வைக்கும் திருப்பதி அதிசியங்கள் திருப்பதி ஸ்ரீ ஏழுமலையான் திருவுருவச் சிலையில் சிலிர்க்க வைக்கும் ரகசியங்கள் உள்ளன அவைகளில் சில......... 1. திருப்பதி ஆலயத்திலிருந்து 1 கிலோமீட்டர் தொலைவில் "சிலாதோரணம்" என்ற அபூர்வ பாறைகள் உள்ளன. உலகத்திலேயே இந்தபாறைகள் இங்கு மட்டும் தான் உள்ளன.இந்த பாறைகளின் வயது 250 கோடி வருடம். ஏழுமலையானின் திருமேனியும், இந்த பாறைகளும்ஒரே விதமானவை. 2. ஏழுமலையான் திருவுருவச்சிலைக்கு பச்சைக்கற்பூரம் சார்த்துகிறார்கள்.. இந்த பச்சைக்கற்பூரம் ஒரு இரசாயனம். அரிப்பைக்கொடுக்கும் ஒருவகை அமிலம். இந்த இரசாயனத்தை சாதாரணக்கருங்கல்லில் தடவினால் கருங்கல் வெடித்துவிடும். ஆனால்,சிலாதாரணத்தில் உள்ள பாறைகளில் இதைத் தடவினால் அந்தப்பறைகள் பெடிப்பதில்லை. ஏழுமலையாக் திருவுருவச்சிலைக்கு 365நாளும் பச்சைக்கற்பூரம் தடவுகிறார்கள். ஆனாலும்வெடிப்புஏற்படுவதில்லை. 3. எந்தக் கருங்கல் சிலையானாலும் எங்காவது ஒர் இடத்தில் சிற்பியின் உளிபட்டிருக்கும் இடம் தெரியும்.. உலோகச்சிலையானாலும்உலோ கத்தை உருக்கி வார்த்த இடம் தெரியும். ஏழுமலையான் திருவுருவச்சிலையில் அப்படி எதுவும் அடையாளம் தெரியவில்லை. எந்தகருங்கல் சிலையை எடுத்துக்கொண்டாலும் சுரசுரப்பாக இருக்கும். ஆனால் ஏழுமலையான் திருமேனியில் நுணுக்க வேலைப்பாடுகள்எல்லாம் மெருகு போடப்பட்டது போல் இருக்கின்றன. ஏழுமலையான் விக்ரகத்தில் நெற்றிச்சுட்டி, காதணிகள், புருவங்கள்,நாகாபரணங்கள் எல்லாம் நகைக்கு பாலீஷ் போட்டது போல் பளபளப்பாகஇருக்கின்றன. 4. ஏழுமலையான் திருவுருவச்சிலை எப்போதும் 110 டிகிரி ஃபாரன்கீட் வெப்பத்தில் இருக்கிறது. திருமலை 3000 அடி உயரத்தில் உள்ளகுளிர்பிரதேசம். அதிகாலை 4.30 மணிக்கு குளிர்ந்த நீர், பால் மற்றும் திரவியங்களால் அபிஷேகம் செய்கிறார்கள். ஆனால், அபிஷேகம்முடிந்தவுடன் ஏழுமலையானுக்கு வியர்க்கிறது.பீதாம்பரத்தால் வியர்வையை ஒற்றி எடுக்கிறார்கள். வியாழக்கிழமை அபிஷேகத்திற்குமுன்னதாக, நகைகளைக் கழற்றும் போது, ஆபரணங்கள் எல்லாம் சூடாகக்கொதிக்கின்றன. திருப்பதி ஆலயம், அதன் வழிபாடு, உண்டியல் வசூல், பூஜை முறைகள், சரித்திர சம்பவங்கள் அனைத்தும் அதிசயநிகழ்வுகளாகஇருக்கின்றன.. 1. திருப்பதி திருக்கோயில் சமையல்கட்டு மிககூம் பெரியதாகும். பொங்கல், தயிர்சாதம்,புளிச்சாதம், சித்ரான்னம், வடை, முறுக்கு,ஜிலேபி, அதி ரசம், போளி, அப்பம், மெளகாரம், லட்டு, பாயசம், தோசை, ரவாகேசரி, பாதாம்கேசரி, முந்திரிப்பருப்பு கேசரி போன்றவைதினமும் பெரிய அளவில் தயார் செய்யப்படுகின்றன. 2. ஏழுமலையானுக்கு தினமும் ஒரு புதிய மண்சட்டி வாங்குகிறார்கள். இதில் தயிர்சாதம் தவிர வேறு எந்த நைவேத்தியமும் கோவில்கர்பக்கிருகத்திற்குக் குலசேகரப் படியைத் தாண்டாது. வைரம், வைடூரியம், தங்கப்பாத்திரங்கள் எதுவும் குலசேகரப்படியைத் தாண்டச்செல்லாது. ஆண்டவனுக்கு நைவேத்தியம் செய்யப்பட்ட எச்சில் மண்சட்டியும், தயிர்சாதமும் ஒரு பக்தனுக்குக் கிடைக்கப் பெற்றால் அதுமிகப்பெரிய பாக்கியமாகும். 3. ஏழுமலையான் உடை 21 முழ நீளமும் 6 கிலோ எடையும் கொண்ட புடவை பட்டு பீதாம்பரமாகும். இந்த ஆடையை கடையில் வாங்கமுடியாது. திருப்பதி தேவஸ்தான அலுவலகத்தில் 12500 ரூபாய் செலுத்த வேண்டும்.வாரத்தில் ஒரு முறை வெள்ளிக்கிழமை அன்றுமட்டும் தான் வஸ்திரம் சாத்துவார்கள். இது மேல் சாத்து வஸ்திரம். பணம் செலுத்திய பிறகு வஸ்திரம் சாத்துவதற்கு மூன்று வருடங்கள்காத்திருக்க வேண்டும். 4. உள் சாத்து வஸ்திரம் ஒரு செட் இருபதாயிரம் ரூபாய் கட்டணமாகும்.ஒவ்வொரு வெள்ளிக்கிழமையும் 15 வஸ்திரங்கள் சார்த்துவதற்குசமர்ப்பிக்கப்படும். பணம் செலுத்திய பிறகு வஸ்திரம் சாத்துவதற்கு பத்து வருடங்கள் காத்திருக்க வேண்டும். 5. பக்தர்கள் சமர்பிக்கும் வஸ்திரங்கள் தவிர அரசாங்கம் சமர்பிக்கும் சீர் வஸ்திரங்கள் ஆண்டுக்கு இரண்டு முறை சாத்தப்படுகிறது. 6. ஏழுமலை ஆண்டவனுக்கு அபிஷேகம் செய்ய இன்று கட்டணம் செலுத்தினால் மூன்று ஆண்டுகள் காத்திருக்க வேண்டும். 7. அபிஷேகத்திற்காக ஸ்பெயினில் இருந்து குங்குமப்பூ, நேபாளத்திலிருந்து கஸ்தூரி, சைனாவிலிருந்து புனுகு, பாரிஸ் நகரத்திலிருந்துவாசனை திரவியங்கள் முதலிய உயர்ந்த பொருட்கள் வரவழைக்கப்பட்டு, தங்கத்தாம்பாளத்தில் சந்தனத்தோடு கரைக்கப்படும் 51 வட்டில்பால் அபிஷேகம் செய்யப்படும். பிறகு கஸ்தூரி சாத்தி, புனுகு தடவப்படும், காலை 4,30 மணி முதல் 5,30 மணி வரை அபிஷேகம்நடைபெறுகிறது. அபிஷேகத்திற்கு சுமார் ஒரு லட்ச ரூபாய் செலவு ஆகும். 8. ஐரோப்பாவில் உள்ள ஆம்ஸ்டர்டாமில் இருந்து பக்குவப்படுத்தப்பட்ட ரோஜா மலர்கள் பக்தர்களால் திருப்பதிக்கு விமானத்தில் அனப்பிவைக்கப்படுகின்றன. ஒரு ரோஜா மலரின் விலைசுமார்80ரூபாய். 9. சீனாவிலிருந்து சீனச்சூடம், அகில், சந்தனம், அம்பர், தக்கோலம், இலவங்கம், குங்குமம், தமாலம், நிரியாசம் போன்ற வாசனைப்பொருட்கள் ஏழுமலையான் திருக்கோயிலுக்காக அனுப்பப்படுகின்றன. 10. ஏழுமலையானின் நகைகளின் மதிப்பு ரூ.1000 கோடி, இவருயை நகைகளை வைத்துக்கொள்ள இடம் இடமும் இல்லை. சாத்துவதற்குநேரமும் இல்லை. அதனால் ஆண்டிற்கு ஒரு முறை உபரியாக உள்ள நகைகளை செய்தித்தாட்களில் விளம்பரப்படுத்தி ஏலம்விடுகிறார்கள். 11. ஏழுமலையானின் சாளக்கிராம தங்கமாலை 12கிலோ எடை. இதை சாத்துவதற்கு மூன்று அர்ச்சகர்கள் தேவை. சூரிய கடாரி 5 கிலோஎடை. பாதக்கவசம் 375 கிலோ. கோவிலில் இருக்கும் ஒற்றைக்கல் நீலம் உலகில் யாரிடமும் கிடையாது. இதன் மதிப்பு ரூ.100கோடி. 12.. மாமன்னர்களான இராசேந்திர சோழர், கிருஷ்ண தேவராயர், அச்சதராயர் போன்றோர் .ஏழுமலையானுக்கு பல காணிக்கைகளையும்,அறக்கட்டளைகளையும் செய்து அவற்றை கல்வெட்டுகளிலும், செப்பேடுகளிலும் பொறித்துள்ளனர். சோழ அரசியும் இங்கு வந்துகாணிக்கை சமர்பித்து இருக்கிறார்.. 13. ஆஜானுபாகுவாக இருக்கும் மூலவர் ஏழுமலை ஆண்டவனைப்போலவே, அபிஷேக அலங்காரம் செய்து பார்க்க ஒரு சிறிய விக்கிரகம்கி.பி..966 ஜுன் 8ஆம் தேதி வெள்ளியால் செய்யப்பட்டது. இந்த விக்ரகத்திற்கு பல்லவ குறுநில மன்னன் சக்தி விடங்கனின் பட்டத்து அரசிகாடவன் பெருந்தேவி நகைகளைத்தந்து, பூஜைக்கு அறக்கட்டளையும் வைத்தார். முதலாம் குலோத்துங்க சோழன் திருமலை தேடிவந்துகாணிக்கைசெலுத்திஉள்ளார். 14. திருப்பதி ஓவியங்கள் 300 ஆண்டுகள் பழமையானவை. 15. வெள்ளிக்கிழமைகளில் வில்வ இலை அர்ச்சனைக்கு உபயோகப்படுத்தப்படுகிறது. மார்கழிமாத அர்சனைக்கும்உபயோகப்படுத்தப்படுகிறது. 16. சிவராத்திரி அன்று க்ஷேத்ர பாலிகா என்ற உற்சவம் நடைபெறுகிறது.. அன்று உற்சவப்பெருமானுக்கு வைரத்தில் விபூதிநெற்றிப்படடை சாத்தப்பட்டு திருவீதி உலா நடைபெருகிறது. தாளப்பாக்கம் அன்னமய்யா, ஏழுமலையானை பரப்பிரம்மமாகவும்,சிவாம்சம் பொருந்திய ஈஸ்வரனாகவும், சக்தி ஸ்வரூபமாகவும் பாடி, அந்த பாடல்களை செப்பேடுகளில் எழுதிவைத்துள்ளார். திருப்புகழ்பாடிய அருணகிரிநாதப் பெருமான் திருப்பதிக்கோயிலுக்கு வந்திருக்கிறார். அவரும் அன்னமய்யாவும் சமகாலத்தவர்கள். சங்கீதமும்மூர்த்திகளில் ஒருவரான முத்துசாமி தீட்சிதர் சிறந்த வித்யா உபாசகர், மந்திர சாஸ்திரம் தெரிந்தவர், நூற்றுக்கணக்கானதெய்வங்கள் மீது பாடியுள்ளார். ஏழுமயைான் மீது சேஷசல நாமம் வராளி ராகத்தில் பாடியுள்ளார்.. 17. அபிஷேகத்தின் போது ஏழுமலையான் தனது மூன்றாவது கண்ணை திறக்கிறார் என்ற ஐதீகம் உள்ளது. 18. ஏழுமலையானின் ஸ்தல விருட்க்ஷம் புளிய மரம். 19. எந்த சாத்வீக, சாந்தமான தெய்வத்தின் திருவுருவச்சிலையிலும் கையில் ஒரு ஆயுதமாகிலும் இருக்கும். ஆனால் ஏழுமலையான்திருவுருவச்சலையில் எந்த ஆயுதமும் கிடையாது. அவர் நிராயுதபாணி. அதனால்தான் தமிழ் இலக்கியத்தில் நம் முன்னோர்களால்,வெறுங்கை வேடன் என்று அழைக்கப்பட்டார். 20. 1781 ஆம் ஆண்டு பிரிட்டிஷ் பீரங்கிப்படை தக்கோலம் என்ற இடத்தில் முகாமிட்டிருந்தது. அப்படையின் 33 ஆவது பிரிவைச்சேர்ந்தலெவெல்லியன் என்ற போர் வீரர் படுகாயம் அடைந்தார். அவர் குணமடைய ஏழுமலையானை பிராத்தித்திருகிறார். குணமடைந்ததும் ஓர்இந்து சிப்பாய் மூலம் நேர்த்திக்கடன்செலுத்தியிருக்கிறார். 21. ஆங்கிலேயர்கள் சர் தாமஸ் மன்றோ, கர்னல் ஜியோ ஸ்டிராட்டன் போன்றவர்கள் ஏழுமலையானின் பக்தர்கள் ஆவர். 22. திருமலையின் புனிதத்தன்மை கருதி 1759 முதல் 1874 வரை எந்த ஆங்கிலேயரும் மலை ஏறவில்லை. ஆங்கிலப்பாதிரிகள் மலையில்ஏதாவது ஒரு பகுதியில் ஒரு சிலுவை நட விரும்பினார்கள். ஆனால் அதற்கு ஆங்கிலேயத் தளபதிகளே அனுமதி அளிக்கவில்லை.திருமலை திருக்கோயிலில் நித்யபடி பூஜைகள் நடக்க வேண்டும் என்று ஆங்கிலேயர்கள் விரும்பினார்கள். பூஜைகள் சரிவரநடக்காவிட்டால் தங்கள் ஆட்சிக்கு பங்கம் வரும் எனக் கவலைப்பட்டார்கள்.