Tuesday, 7 July 2020

Aerogel looks like a slice of cloud.



The term Aerogel comes from two words – Air and Gel. And there is history to that name!

  • Aerogel is an ultralight material made from gel and gas. It's been nicknamed "frozen smoke" or "solid cloud" because of its ethereal appearance.
  • Scientists have created more than a dozen recipes for different types of aerogel, but they all share a similar process: mix chemicals together, let them settle into a wet gel, and then suck all of the liquid out. The result is a substance of extremely low density that is actually 99 percent air.
  • Because it's made primarily of air and air is such a terrible heat conductor, placing a layer of Aerogel between a flower and a flame will protect the flower from getting destroyed.

Monday, 6 July 2020

NATRAJASANSA YOGA

Natarajasana, Lord of the Dance Pose or Dancer Pose is a standing, balancing, back-bending asana in modern yoga as exercise. It is derived from a pose in the classical Indian dance form Bharatnatyam, which is depicted in temple statues in the Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram.


BENIFITS OF THIS YOGA POSE:- Practicing this asana gives strength to your chest, ankles, hips, and legs.

1) This asana increases your metabolism and helps in weight loss.

2) It gives your groin, abdominal organs, and thighs a good stretch.

3) Your posture is improved, and balance is increased.

4) It helps better your digestion.

5) You tend to focus more and are also relieved of stress. This asana calms your mind.

6) Your body becomes flexible.

7) Your hip flexors are opened up.

8) Practicing this asana gives strength to your chest, ankles, hips, and legs.


What You Should Know Before You Do This Asana? 

This asana must be practiced on an empty stomach. You must make it a point to have your meals four to six hours before the practice so that the food is digested and the energy is ready to be expended. Also, make sure your bowels are empty before you practice.

Yoga must be practiced at dawn or dusk for best results.

The Science Behind The Natarajasana:-

This asana is a beautiful combination of structure and movement, and it symbolizes the dance of the graceful Nataraja. It helps to make you strong, and opens up your mind and body, giving them so much grace and power. It is a deep backbend. 

As you bend and your body balances on one leg, you are constantly challenged. When you overcome the challenge, you attain a sense of peace and calm. This asana opens up the heart. It asks of us to be stable but at ease, dedicated, yet non-attached, engaged, yet at peace. 

When we are open to and accept both movement and structure, this asana helps draw a clear communication between our being and the teacher in the heart.



Debunking Myths About White Rice

White rice is a staple food for many, but it’s often misunderstood. Let’s clear up some common myths:

1. White Rice is Unhealthy: White rice provides essential carbohydrates and energy. When eaten in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, it can be healthy.

2. White Rice Causes Weight Gain: Weight gain happens when you consume more calories than you burn. Portion control matters more than avoiding white rice.

3. White Rice Has No Nutritional Value: White rice is a good source of energy and contains essential nutrients like manganese and iron. Many varieties are also enriched with folic acid.

4. Brown Rice is Always Better: While brown rice has more fiber, it may not be suitable for everyone. Both types have their benefits, so it’s a matter of personal preference.

5. White Rice Spikes Blood Sugar: Though white rice has a higher glycemic index, combining it with other foods like vegetables or proteins can help control blood sugar levels.

6. White Rice Should Be Avoided on Low-Carb Diets: White rice can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in controlled portions, even for those watching their carbs.


In conclusion, white rice isn’t as bad as it’s made out to be. Like any food, it’s all about how and how much you eat.


“Understanding Intermittent Fasting: Benefits and Considerations”

Intermittent fasting is a type of eating pattern where you cycle between periods of eating and fasting. It’s not about what you eat, but rather when you eat. There are different methods, like fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window (16/8 method) or fasting every other day.


Many people use intermittent fasting to help with weight loss, improve metabolism, or even boost energy levels. It can also help with regulating blood sugar levels and improving heart health. However, intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s important to listen to your body.


Before trying intermittent fasting, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have any health conditions or concerns. It’s important to stay hydrated during fasting periods and make sure your meals are balanced when you do eat.


The Vijay Mallya Podcast: A Tale of Power, Fall, and Painful Redemption

It’s rare for a podcast to leave you with a lump in your throat, a heaviness that lingers long after the voices fade. Raj Shamani’s four-hou...