Ayurveda & Wellness: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living
How often should you wash your hair?
How often should you wash your hair? Many people tend to wash their hair every single day and then complain about their hair concerns. Washing your hair too frequently can lead to severe dryness and makes your hair brittle. If you wash less, then you might have product buildup accumulating on your scalp. The struggle is real! Thus, we have made a complete guide with a list of factors that will help you analyze your suitable hair wash frequency. Let's get started. What are the factors you should consider to judge your hair wash frequency? To deal with the everyday confusion, here is a list of really crucial factors that will give you an insight regarding your hair wash frequency for the best results: Oily or greasy scalp Oils are an integral part of our hair for providing all the required nutrients, which offers strength and thickness to hair. However, at times, when your scalp becomes too oily or greasy, it can easily attract and stick dirt and pollution, which can easily clog your pores and thereby aid in dandruff and other scalp concerns. Several aspects determine the oil production in your scalp, such as weather, lifestyle, hormonal imbalances, etc. Many people face greasy hair after every two days of washing their hair. Thus, in such cases, buy a moisturizing shampoo like GreenOpia Naturals oil shampoo that can be really beneficial here. The natural ingredients within the shampoo will provide an adequate amount of hydration and moisture and prevent your hair from drying due to frequent hair washes like twice or thrice a week. Ingredients such as aloe vera extracts, glycerine, shikakai, reetha, etc will help in adding cleansing the hair properly and does not deprive the hair off the natural essential oils as well. Your hair type Your hair type plays an integral part in most aspects of your hair care routine. If you have really thick and curly hair, you are one of the lucky ones since you do not need to wash your hair frequently. Your hair is mostly on the drier side and does not get greasy often. If you have thin, fine, and straight hair strands, you might need to wash your hair at least twice a week since the oil can gradually get to your strands very easily, and this can easily make your hair feel oily and heavy. This is when most people tend to resort to dry shampoos that are filled with chemicals. But sadly, this can also lead to product buildup. Thus, washing your hair instead is a safer option. Lifestyle If you travel every single day in the scorching heat of the sun or have intense workout sessions regularly, chances are your scalp will accumulate more scalp, and this will leave your hair sticky and greasy. And yet again it will catch dust and pollution easily. You should wash about twice or thrice a week to remove the sweat and dirt from your hair. Therefore, lifestyle is another vital aspect you should consider while judging your hair care washing frequency. Styling products If you use styling products like hair wax, balms, etc., it may again cause product buildup in your hair. The chemicals gradually accumulate in your scalp and eventually damage your hair to a large extent. It will clog the pores and weaken the follicles over time due to such harmful chemicals. This way, you will face tremendous hair loss and hair thinning. Thus, it is advisable to wash your hair every time you apply such styling products to your hair. What is the right way to wash your hair? Most people tend to pump out the required amount of shampoo into their hands and start massaging their scalp. This is not the right way to wash your hair! If you are one of the people who need to shampoo very frequently, you need to change your hair shower routine. Here is a quick step-by-step guide which you should follow to minimize the aftereffects of frequently washing hair. Wet your hair thoroughly Take out a few pumps of your favorite shampoo in the mug Add about 1/4th water into the mug and mix it generously Pour the mixture on your scalp and massage it gently This will create enough lather and foam that will help you rinse your complete hair properly. You require a lesser amount of shampoo by washing your hair in this way. This will help reduce the dryness that follows after frequent hair washes. This also helps to keep the natural oils in the hair intact and does not make the hair brittle. Final Thoughts Haircare experts do not recommend washing your hair every day. It is advisable to check with the factors mentioned above and judge the hair washing frequency every time. Choose the right hair care products according to your hair type and wash your hair as per your requirements. This will maintain the hair's health and will aid in strong and luscious hair!
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The New Range of Hydrating Face Masks
Our modern day lifestyle is encircled by pollution, contaminated junk foods, and imbalanced hormones. This lifestyle takes a toll on our body and health, and it shows on our face. Attracting a host of skin problems like oily skin, pus-filled acne, tanned and uneven skin tone, blackheads, blemishes, etc, it becomes vital to maintain a skincare routine that keeps our skin clear and nourished. Now, there is so much you can do in face care, but little do you know that Face masks can make or break your skin care routine! Face masks, when chosen correctly, can play a huge role in curbing rigid skin issues that veil your beautiful face. However, the wrong choice can lead to furthermore damage and irritate your skin. But don’t you worry! GreenOpia Naturals brings you the most harmless, hydrating, and delicate face masks to rid you of those worries. An entirely SLS, Paraben, and cruelty-free initiative that comes from a place of love and concern for your overall well-being. Here we introduce you to our range of Hydrating Face Masks that will keep your natural luster alive: Aloe Vera & Charcoal Face Mask Why: Aloe Vera is no novice in the game of skin health. With 70% of its content being water, Aloe Vera is extremely hydrating for the skin. This is the best face mask for acne. Blended with Charcoal, this face mask increases blood circulation on your face and pulls out rigid impurities that clog your pores. The mask also contains the goodness of Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E Oil that deeply condition the skin and restore the vigor. Orange Aloe Vera & Charcoal Face Mask Why: Orange extracts work wonderfully in reducing uneven skin tone. Orange is enriched with Vitamin C, which eliminates dark pigmentation and increases skin elasticity to remove the unwanted wrinkles on your face. Orange coupled with Aloe Vera & Charcoal gives an unbeatable fight to sun-exposed and tanned skin. Charcoal face masks, in general, control the sebum secretion on your face and draw out dirt, bacteria, and toxins from your face. This is the best face mask for sensitive oily skin. Lime Aloe Vera & Charcoal Face Mask Why: Lime is an all-time favorite addition in home remedies, and we bring you a lime formula without all the hassle of DIYs. This is the most natural face mask of Lime coupled with natural extracts of Aloe Vera, Charcoal and various conditioning and rejuvenating oils for your skin. This one works exceptionally well in pulling away free radicals and pollution to give you a smooth, supple, and clear skin. All these face masks are derived from natural extracts and ingredients that do not harm your skin. These masks work for everyone irrespective of their skin type. Due to their gel base, these masks protect the natural layer of your skin and keep it from drying out while removing the excess oil from your face. Try them all and do let us know which mask is your favorite!
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Three DIY Homemade Natural Skin Care Tips
Choosing the best OTC skincare products is not enough when it comes to keeping your skin healthy and happy for a longer time! Along with opting for chemical-free and natural products, you must also nourish your skin with some of the DIY Tips for Skin Care below! They are quick, simple, and do not hog up your entire day into preparation and application! If you are looking for faster results and flawless skin, head down below and show your skin some extra love! Use the Ice! Ice has made a banging comeback in 2020 with so many celebrities adding it to their skincare regime! This frozen water can do miraculous things to your skin. When the chilly temperature hits your skin it will quickly minimize your pores and inflammation. So, say hello to a tightened skin! Just pop in some ice cubes, or get a good rinse of icy water every day and you’re done! Chug Water Yes, we’re asking you to hydrate! Certainly, you’re growing tired of this skincare tip, and although this is not going to show immediate results, your body will thank you in the long run. A hydrated body will be efficient in eliminating all tough toxins from the system, improve your skin elasticity, and give you an unbeatable healthy glow! Spritz Some Rose Water This is especially for the harsh summers that turn your face into an oil field, and burn your skin even when you’re out for 2 mins! Rosewater acts as a natural coolant and helps your skin relax after a long day under the sun. What do you have to do? Simply take a small container and mix 2 teaspoons of rose water with a couple of drops of lemon, and dab that mixture on your face with a clean cotton ball. Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Chickpea or Besan Mask No ladies (or guys), our moms and nannies weren’t being obnoxious when they said besan can treat all kinds of skin issues. And there’s science behind it! This amazing floor comes with many nutrients and proteins that are essential for our skin health. The most common application of besan on your skin is by turning into a mask—milk, turmeric, & besan should do the job here! So here are some of our favorite DIY ways to get the natural rich glow on your face. But remember all of this care can potentially go down the drain if you don’t ditch your harmful chemical-filled products! Switch to GreenOpia Naturals Tea or Coffee skincare range! Our products are chemical-free, cruelty-free, and stocked with wholesome goodness!
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Good source of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients a healthy body needs. Vitamin D is looks after bone health, immune system and blood sugar. It is very much needed in every meal for better and healthy life. Vitamin D is the curing medicine for broken bone or fractures. People with weak immune system should prefer more of vitamin d food than the other food. Having vitamin D in your meals would add freshness to your daily work. In order cut down calories, many cut out the basic nutrition needed for body. Food with rich vitamins and minerals is must for maintaining basic nutrition level of the body. Many don’t pay attention to the nutrition level for getting in shape. Vitamin D is in every food you eat daily even if you heat it a bit it doesn’t lose its properties but when you fry food which has vitamin D loses its properties to an extent. Food which is a good source of Vitamin D is: Milk most types of cow's milk are fortified with vitamin D. Dairy products having semi-skimmed milk is also fine. Consuming cow’s milk everyday is a step towards healthy life. Mushrooms are best with meals. Mushrooms and some spices they taste perfect. Cook dishes which as mushrooms in it. But before cooking them, keep them in sunlight for better nutrition. Cereals are perfect with milk. It has the maximum amount of Vitamin D. Cereals are best in breakfast and snacks. But check before buying the pack checks for which age group it is. Children pack would have more of DHA. Tofu has the most of vitamin D. But raw tofu does not taste good so cook it with water and spices for better taste. Orange juice one glass of orange juice has more vitamin D than that of milk. Drink more of orange juice now! Ricotta cheese has more vitamin D than other types of cheese. It makes meals taste delicious with healthy effect.
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Perfect Guide to Treating Dry Hair in Upcoming Summer
Just like excessive skin exposure damages your skin, it can damage your hair health too. When the UVA and UVB rays from the sun directly hit the scalp and the shaft, it causes oxidative damage to the hair, making your hair dry, brittle, and coarse. The heat from the summer sun can quickly turn your hair lifeless and limp. This is because the high humidity in the atmosphere may settle on the tresses and weigh them down. Being the ideal season for pools, chlorine and salt water can take a severe toll on your hair. The list goes on and on about the negative impacts of summers on your hair, but we will be discussing the solutions. If you want to flaunt healthy and luscious hair even in the hottest and humid regions, learn with us the art of protecting your hair from the harsh sun rays without turning it into an endless battle. Let’s get started. Cover up Always wear a dark-coloured scarf or hat to cover your hair whenever you step out in the heat. Not only does it help to add additional UV protection, but it also helps to retain and maintain the moisture in the scalp. If your hair is colour-treated, less exposure to the sun rays with a hat or scarf can help to sustain the colour longer on your hair. It will also prevent tangles from the hot loos. Go natural this summer. Instead of using chemical-based shampoos and oils on your hair this summer, choose natural hair care products that take additional care of your hair during the pesky hot winds. To prevent dryness in your hair during the summers, regular massages with natural oils like cold pressed coconut oil can do wonders in nourishing your follicles and reversing the sun damage on your hair. A good hot oil massage will help you relax after the heat while strengthening your hair roots. Go heatless If you want to safeguard your hair this summer, avoid using heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, curlers, etc. The additional heat from these styling tools is never good for your hair as it can make your hair go lifeless in no time. This summer, go for more natural hairstyles to ensure that your hair is safe and healthy during the hot and humid weather. Use heat protectant By heat protectant, we do not mean the commercial heat protectant sprays that come with overloaded chemicals. Such products eventually do more harm than good to your hair. Instead, create a concoction of water, aloe vera juice and avocado oil/argan oil and store it into a spritz container. Spray the concoction before you leave the house, and this will keep your hair moisturized and protected in the heat. If you do not have enough time to invest in DIYing the concoction, you can also check out the best hair care products made from natural ingredients to keep your hair safe and secured from the heat. Soothe your scalp from the heat If your head is fuming from all the heat whenever you come back home, create a mix that will help to soothe your scalp instantly and prevent further damage. Use organic aloe vera gel and massage it into your scalp generously. This will remove the excess sebum, soothe your scalp and control excess oil production in the scalp. If your scalp feels weighed down after the application, you can choose to rinse it off with a mild shampoo. Maintain a healthy diet This may seem like generic advice but has extraordinary importance during summers. In summers, you have higher chances of suffering from nutrition deficiency as most of the nutrients may be used in giving you the energy to sustain through the hot day, and it may not be enough. This is why adding the right fruits and vegetables into your diet, rich in essential nutrients, is a dire necessity to enjoy healthy hair in summers. Stay hydrated During summers, you will quickly flush out the water content in your body. Without adequate liquids in your body, you may feel nauseous or dizzy during the day. To prevent such unforeseen circumstances, ensure to stay hydrated throughout the day. The higher your water intake gets, the more are your chances of having a healthy and nourished scalp, as water and liquids are some of the most common sources of nutrients and hydration to your scalp. This will also prevent dryness during the summers and aid in bouncy and healthy hair! For external nourishment, you can also check out hair care products online, such as leave-in conditioners that will keep your hair hydrated during summers. Final Takeaways You do not need to lengthen your hair care products list in the summers. The fewer products you apply to your scalp, the more space it gets to breathe. Go for only natural hair care products and reduce sun exposure as much as possible. By following these tips religiously, you can effortlessly combat the summers with beautifully healthy and hydrated manes!
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Here's why you should get a tea tree face wash for acne
Are you suffering from consistent acne, and nothing seems to work for the pesky bumps and grits on your face? Well, acne can be really disheartening and can occur even in the most unexpected times, primarily when you have an oily skin type. Acne can occur due to many potential reasons such as hormonal disbalances, sudden weight change, change in the environment, new skincare products, and so much more. Every type of acne has only one solution - Get the best tea tree face wash for acne! You may even find your dermatologists suggesting you incorporate tea tree essential oil in your skincare routine. If you think that counts as an extra step in your skincare routine and you are extremely lazy for all the heavy lifting, a simple tea tree face wash can not only cleanse your skin from within but also reduce the chances of getting acne and rescue acne scars over time. Read along with us, and let's know more about this magical ingredient in more detail. What does the research say? One important thing you should know about incorporating a new skincare product in your regime is to research well. Don't just believe the long list of benefits already, as it is crucial to know your product well before you invest in it and even apply it to your skin. Let's have a closer look at what different studies have to say about the connection between tea tree and acne. According to a review journal of 35 studies, using complementary treatments for improving the onset of acne had a certain amount of tea tree associated with it. Another study found that the tea tree has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that contribute significantly to treating inflamed acne lesions like pimples, etc. A 2016 study states that the combination of tea tree with other ingredients like resveratrol helps protect skin from any sun damage. This experiment also proved that the participants using this concoction witnessed a lesser amount of oil and bacteria on the skin with visibly shrink pores. These could potentially prevent the occurrence of acne in many individuals. Another study involved participants applying tea tree oil to their faces twice every day for 12 weeks. By the end of the final week, the researchers concluded a healthy-looking skin and an improved acne occurrence. The study also revealed that it showed no side effects to the participants, concluding tea tree to be an ingredient free from side effects. Another study proved that combining tea trees with aloe vera and propolis can also help to improve acne within individuals over time. Benefits of using a Tea Tree face wash for acne Now that we have discussed the scientific research that shows how potent tea trees can be for your skin, let's quickly look at some of the benefits of using a tea tree face wash for acne-prone skin. Heals minor wounds Acen is almost like open wounds that are prone to get infected real quick if you do not apply an antiseptic to them. A fantastic benefit of using tea tree face wash is that the tea tree extracts of the face wash can help clean the acne-causing bacteria and treat the wound over time. Tea tree is an excellent ingredient that speeds up the healing process of your acne and keeps it from festering. Thus, whenever you have active acne, don't miss out on applying your tea tree face wash as it can prevent the spreading of acne-causing germs to other parts of your face. Promotes glowing skin Acne scars and marks quickly fade away the natural glow of your skin! Not only does the tea tree help to prevent the wounds from further complications, but it also moisturizes the skin and fades away the acne marks. With consistent usage of the best tea tree face wash for acne, you can gradually reduce the appearance of the marks and make your skin look plump and hydrated from within. Treats psoriasis and eczema The powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are not just limited to acne-causing bacteria but also works wonders for psoriasis and eczema. Irrespective of your skin type, a good tea tree face wash can effectively help skin concerns like psoriasis and eczema. It can calm the irritated and flared skin within just a few uses. Reduces itching Acne and itching skin go hand in hand. The anti-inflammatory properties of a good tea tree face wash also contribute to the itching of your face. According to research, compared to other topical treatments like zinc oxide, clobetasol butyrate and others, tea tree proves to be highly beneficial in terms of treating itchiness on the skin. Safety tips before using a tea tree face wash Before you incorporate a tea tree face wash into your skincare regime, here are a few tips that you should consider: Even though tea tree is generally safe for usage on the skin, it is important to never get it into your eyes. Tea tree, a powerful ingredient, can cause redness and irritation in contact with your eyes. If you are allergic to tea trees, it's better to avoid it irrespective of the tea tree content in the face wash. To understand whether a tea tree suits your skin or not, always do a patch test on any part of your body or face and observe for a few hours. If you find no allergic reaction, you are good to go. Only trust brands that offer authentic sources and extracts of tea tree in the face wash like GreenOpia Naturals. It is the organic tea tree that only makes the biggest impact on your skin health. Final Takeaways If you are suffering from consistent acne, the best tea tree face wash for acne is your only solution that can help with reducing your acne and fade acne marks over time. However, note that you also need to work on certain lifestyle changes and visit a dermatologist if your acne gets severe. With religious usage and persistence, a good tea tree face wash can do wonders for your acne!
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Is The Best Argan oil hair shampoo the ultimate solution to all your hair concerns?
We have raved about argan oil forever! This magical ingredient has been the best member of the hair care community that has served for ages. The hype of argan oil is no longer a mystery, as the benefit of argan oil is limitless. Today, we will dive deep into everything about the best argan oil hair shampoo that will help you learn more about this beneficial ingredient. All the information will be backed up by scientific research to ensure that you only get accurate information and nothing less. Keep reading along with us to learn more about it. Benefits of argan oil hair shampoo - What does science say? You may have read plenty of benefits about argan hair oil shampoos on the internet, but how much of that info is accurate? So many people do not do adequate research about the benefits and the uses of an ingredient but start incorporating it into their everyday routine. This can be dangerous if you somehow choose the wrong ingredients for your hair, skin and body. If you wonder whether all the information you read on the internet about argan hair oil shampoo benefits are accurate or not, here's a list of the benefits backed up by scientific research and studies. Moisturizes and conditions your hair Argan oil is an excellent source of vitamin E, which is a significant moisturizing element for your hair. This ingredient is full of fatty acids such as linoleic acid and oleic acid that helps to lubricate the hair shaft and maintain adequate moisture. This fatty layer can also prevent dryness in your hair and is a boon for people suffering from dry hair type as it replenishes the nutrient content in your hair with one wash! It keeps your hair soft, supple and bouncy without weighing it down from extra moisture. Improves scalp health So many people struggle with dandruff, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, which are some of the significant scalp conditions. These are the underlying conditions contributing to hair fall and inadequate hair moisture. According to studies, argan oil has major anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that work great for keeping your scalp health in check. Prevents styling and colouring damage According to the studies, argan oil offers a nice protective layer to your hair, preventing the damage from consistently washing or styling your hair. Being rich in linoleic, oleic and palmitic acid, argan oil is great for protecting your hair from external chemicals and heat. Furthermore, the nourishing properties of argan hair oil ensure that your hair is free from any split and damaged ends. This is one of the major concerns of people who are consistently styling and heating up their hair. Another study also found out that using argan hair oil shampoo in your hair can eliminate the damage caused by hair dye, making the hair brittle and coarse. If you are looking for a fix for the heat and chemical damage to your hair, look no further as argan oil shampoo is your best buddy here! Protects hair from the sun The Moroccan argan oil shampoo has been used for ages to protect the hair and the scalp from the sun. According to a study, argan oil's antioxidant activity helps protect the scalp from the free radical damage that causes the hair to grow super unhealthy. It may also prevent damage from the sun's ultraviolet rays by adding an extra layer of protection. Do you still need to use an argan hair oil if you use the argan hair oil shampoo? Well, that's a common question so many people wonder about. Let's decode this together. The argan oil hair shampoo is mainly made of a maximum concentration of argan oil mixed with other ingredients that are excellent for your hair health. Considering the amount of argan oil content on your shampoo, you can choose to skip the part of oiling if you'd like to. However, if you're a dry hair type, oiling with argan oil can go a long way in combining with the nourishing properties of the argan oil hair shampoo. If you have an oily scalp or do not have adequate time to oil your hair regularly, it is always better to apply only the argan oil hair shampoo, which will keep your scalp nourished, clean and healthy for a longer duration effortlessly! How to pick the best argan oil hair shampoo? With so many brands on the market selling argan hair oil shampoos, getting overwhelmed is natural. Simply adding the word "natural" or "organic" doesn't necessarily prove that the product is worth purchasing. This is why you need to dig deeper and look out for the ingredients in your argan oil hair shampoo. Starting from the basics, your argan oil hair shampoo should primarily consist of argan oil as the main ingredient. Some other ingredients that can be present in your argan hair oil shampoo can be aloe vera extract, vegetable glycerin, gudhal extracts, reetha extracts, Brahmi extracts, and other essential oils. These ingredients boost the efficiency and potency of the argan oil hair shampoo and bring even better results than only oiling your hair with argan oil. Ensure that your argan oil hair shampoo ingredients do not have any SLS or parabens, even in the littlest amounts. Sure, these ingredients are primarily present to extend the shelf life of the hair care product, but it can end up damaging your hair even further. Always look out for safe and natural ingredients even if you get a shorter shelf life with your hair care products, as you need to focus more on the healthy ingredients instead of the preservatives. Conclusion There are so many more benefits to argan hair oil shampoos, but these have already been proven with robust and rigorous experiments. Argan oil hair shampoos are clinically tried and tested to ensure that it serves the purpose and keeps their word of making your hair healthy and luscious. Now that you know the scientifically backed up solutions of the best argan oil hair shampoo, include it in your hair care routine starting today and experience the fantastic results!
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Benefits of Drinking Tea
Tea is the best beverage since it can be served iced and hot. There are plenty reasons to have a drink but tea is a drink where you don’t need a beverage ever. It is a flavourful liquid with properties to boosts energy. A drink which turns out of a plant, Camellia sinensis taste best when mixed with milk.Tea is the best refreshment. Every food and drink have a its benefits and harm on our body but we tend to consume it. Tea has multiple benefits even if you consume it more. One can never avoid tea after knowing its benefits. Here are the benefits of the tea: 1. Best antioxidantYour body needs specific food intake which has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants prevent body from weakness and diseases. It helps the body to fight germs and keep it young and healthy. 2. Less caffeineTea has less amount of caffeine when compared to coffee. Herbal tea has no caffeine and traditional teas have 50 percent less caffeine than coffee. Consumption of tea is now beneficial than coffee as there are no effects on the nervous system. 3. Risk of heart healthTea has properties with fight germs and regulates blood circulation. Tea reduces the risk of heart attack by 20 perfect and heart stroke by 25 percent, at least for those who drank 3-4 cups of tea a day. Tea such as green tea reduces the risk of heart attack by 35 perfect and reduces cholesterol levels. 4. Weight lossGreen tea is a drink which works as multi-action. It is the best detoxifier for your body. Flushes out all the toxins and helps you to reduce weight. It rejuvenates your body. 5. Immune systemTea is a drink for your immunity. The immune system plays a vital role when it comes to your well-being. It reduces the risk of falling sick often. Tea helps to strengthen your immune system and fight germ causing diseases.
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6 Habits if Incorporated in Daily Life Might Help with Anxious Mind
I am an introvert person. I hate social gatherings. Talking. Dancing. Worst of all, people. People scare me. It is not like I am scared of them hurting me, I am aware no one is gonna attack me (hopefully). But just thinking of them is shaking me to the core. The whole scenario makes me nervous. I start to stutter. My legs start fidgeting. God only knows how many times have I dived into the phone, pretending to text someone. I want to hide away. Welcome to the life of a person who is doomed with anxiety. Anxiety. A mental disorder that is constantly sending signals of fear down the spine. Overthinking becomes your new companion. The mind is always running, but somehow, it never wins the race. Fright, nausea, and irritability are the best friends, 4 peas in a pod. Yay! So many factors are closely knitted with our mental health. While most of these things are out of our control, as we tend to go back to have some semblance of normalcy, it's important to address the habitual things we can actually change or maybe try to add. Here are outlines of a few of the factors and easy tips to make sure you're doing what you can to protect your emotional wellness. A Good Night’s Sleep: We have always heard from our teachers, parents, and mostly, the doctors about how important sleep is. Preferably, sleeping six to eight hours a day is what every adult needs for personal wellbeing. Resting your body and getting a good downtime are very closely linked to mental health. Sleep deprivation affects your psychological state as well and according to a study by Harvard Medical School, people with mental health problems are more likely to be insomniacs or have other sleep disorders. Regular Intake of Water: I know many people need a water remaindering application to, well, remind themselves to drink water. And I totally understand it. Life is busy and fast-moving. Some days you even feel like you do not have time to breathe, you know, too busy for oxygen. Water might be the last thing on your mind. So a water reminder is actually a very smart idea. Drinking enough water is key for both physical and mental health. When you don't drink enough water, you are slithering into mild dehydration. At that time, your brain rings an alarm that you're in a life-threatening situation and starts flooding with stress hormones—especially cortisol. A spike in cortisol leads to anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Keep Learning New Things: When you are not doing something, your brain starts to think about irrelevant things. It starts to overthink. What I tend to do is learn a new language. It not only improves my skills but also keeps my brain busy. According to a study from Central Connecticut State University, learning new things may not only increase your intelligence but also helps you come up with better ideas and solve problems. For your brain, learning to play an instrument, trying to speak a new language, or taking on a new topic you don’t know helps your keep the mind busy, while also improving your knowledge. This newfound knowledge allows you to adapt better to different situations. It is also a habit followed many millionaires follow. Get Out: Remember how Rapunzel was locked in a tower all her life that she ended up with a chameleon as her best friend? That’s why many doctors suggest getting out more. Something as simple as taking a walk around the neighborhood is also counted as self-care. In 2019, research stated that just 20 minutes outside significantly lowered stress hormone levels. Be in Contact with Friends and Family: This one is one of the most important key to keeping your mental health at bay. Maintaining relationships with friends and family is vital to your mental welfare. As mentioned before, being alone with your thoughts might take a toll on you. So, make the effort to text back, schedule video calls, and go out for movies or dinner/lunch, etc. so that you stay in touch with people. This helps in building a trustful environment where you will realize that that zone is your judgment-free zone and can reach out whenever you feel overwhelmed. Physical Activities are a Great Help: Seriously, working out in any way, be it hardcore exercise or yoga, physical activity elevates your mood like nothing else. It's crucial that you exercise as it feeds your body with the endorphins which is much needed! Prolonged exposure to stress is capable of resulting in triggering psychological issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, psychological distress, and anxiety, among several others. In all, what we are trying to say is maybe it gets better. The anxiety might get better with time, patience, and therapy. Talking to a friend who is ready to listen to your sudden bouts with no judgments is very hard to do, but once you do, you would feel sudden lightness on your whole body. Take deep breaths when nervous. I have learned a fact that literally, no one is gonna remember that mistake you made. It may sound bitter, but people have a lot to worry and think about, and your mistakes aren’t running through anyone’s mind. Surround yourself with people who have a good interest in their hearts for you. Anxiety gets better with kind words and kinder intentions. This way, maybe we can overcome anxiety.
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Hair Care 101: What are Parabens and What is the Debate Around them?
We have come a long way from Shakespeare’s “to be or not to be” existential question. Now the question that targets our existence revolves much around the lines of, “to text or not to text”, “to watch or not to watch”, “to eat or not to eat”, and “to buy or not to buy”. We are living in times where we are incredibly aware and conscious of what we are eating. So, I guess it is fair to say that it is also the time we start watching out for the ingredients of the products that we slather up on our skin or hair! Bad and dangerous ingredients in our beauty products aren’t exactly a piece of news. Albeit, not every chemical is bad. In the world of beauty, there has been an ongoing debate regarding an ingredient: paraben. The person responsible for this stir of controversy would be Philippa Darbre. Let’s learn further about what paraben is and the reason behind this ongoing debate. What are Parabens? Coconut Oil are, basically, a class of compounds called esters used in all sorts of beauty products and are very effective at preventing bacteria, fungi, and yeast growth. So in simpler terms, they are preservatives of cosmetic products that increase their shelf life. From shampoos to moisturizers, all the products use parabens. It is present in the various forms such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and heptylparaben. So, What Exactly is wrong with Paraben? You might be wondering, “What is wrong with a little preservative? It is just keeping the fungus and bacteria away, isn’t it?” Well, yes it is. But, according to a report by Philippa Darbre, it is also causing deadly harm to the consumer. The story goes back to the year 2004, when a lady, named Philippa Darbre published a research paper stating that there appeared to be traces of parabens in the tissue samples of breast cancer patients. It doesn’t really help paraben’s case when its chemical structure is resembling estrogen, the female hormone that is known to cause breast cells—both normal and cancerous—to grow and divide. There isn’t enough evidence to conclude or back up the paper, but the research did prove that parabens can pass through the skin barrier and enter our bodies. “The researchers looked only for the presence of paraben in breast cancer samples. The study did not show that paraben caused or contributed to breast cancer development in these cases, it only showed that they were there.” This was quickly pointed out by the American Cancer Society. And that is how, my friends, the paraben debate began. We, nor do we believe anyone, can say for sure that parabens can cause breast cancer. It is really up to the consumer to choose for themselves. But we use the precautionary principle; if multiple research casts doubt over an ingredient’s safety to humans or the environment, we shall not use it. Our Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner helps curb dehydration of hair and tame the frizz. Being free from SLS and Paraben helps in nourishing and strengthening hair, and reducing hair-fall. And to add a cherry on top, it is cruelty-free and vegan!
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Treating Cystic Acne: 3 Ways to Treat the Stubborn Devil Zits Fast with GreenOpia Naturals
If you are tired of acne breaking out randomly, clap your hands! *clap, clap!* It has happened a lot of times, at least with me, that after a long time of clear, bumpless skin, just before some main event, would acne bumps come and pays a visit! It feels like it was waiting for me to let my guard down, and the moment I did that, here comes the devil! Oh, the vicious thing! But the thing more vicious than regular acne is cystic acne. Cystic acne is the worst of them all. It really is. Do you know why? Well, unlike other forms of acne (blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, and the ever so infamous-never-pop-it-pus bumps), cystic acne can’t be treated with the same ointments and serums that you topically apply in other cases. That is because cystic acne is rooted deep within the skin tissue, with no direct connection to the surface. But don’t worry, I have got your back! As someone who has been a regular host for the devil acne, I have got a few tricks under my sleeves. So hold your horses, cause I am just about share ways that might help at treating them. But first, we gotta learn a thing or a few about cystic acne. You know, “know thy enemy!” What Is Cystic Acne? Most severe of all acne forms, these are deep, red, pus nodules that form on the surface of the skin. If being painful wasn’t enough, these bumps leave behind scars and brown spots that take their sweet time to go away. In short, they are just a nuisance. What Causes Cystic Acne? Blocked Pores: The pores are always creating sebum and some areas, like the T-zone, can tend to be oilier. All this sebum, when combined with dirt and dead skin cells, can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, and cysts. Hormones: Cysts are large pimples under the skin. As they grow, they become inflamed. However, after the inflammation is soothed, the sac of pus still remains, which can become inflamed again. They also have a knack for visiting again at the same spot. These can be hormonal due to imbalanced androgen levels. Continuously Touching Face: If you are constantly touching your face, wiping away sweat with the back of your hand, or not disinfecting your phone regularly then please, for the love of god, stop! You are basically inviting the little devils to reside in your skin by creating the perfect environment for them. Dirt on your fingers transfers bacteria and oil to the skin. Plus, touching the skin stimulates the blood flow, which causes inflammation. This promotes more blockages, resulting in breakouts. How To Get Rid Of Them? Don’t Pop It! First and foremost, no matter how appealing it may seem, DO NOT pop it. Do not even touch it. Cystic acne legit cannot be popped, as the problem is way too deep within the skin. Trying to squeeze the cyst out will only push the inflammation further. Just let it be! Cortisone Injection A cortisone injection involves a low-dose steroid that is directly injected into the zit to decrease the pain and inflammation within a few days. Cool It Down! For years, our ancestral grandmas have passed the knowledge of putting ice on your face. Ice helps in constricting the blood vessels and brings down the swelling a bit. Why is it important to bring down the swelling? Well, the reason cystic acne is painful is because of swelling and inflammation in the tissue. So, wrap up an ice cube in a clean paper towel or napkin and hold it against your stubborn acne for 1-2 minutes max.
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Understanding Your Skin: Differentiating Skin Type from Skin Condition with GreenOpia Naturals
Your skin is just as unique as you are. It is the largest organ in your body, and also your very first and foremost protection from outer elements. Thus giving it love and nourishment takes patience and maybe a lot of trial and error methods. To avoid experiencing trial and error, you must learn to understand your skin better. When you distinguish what your skin needs, it gets easier to decide accurately which products are most beneficial for you. Often people can’t distinguish between skin type and skin condition. So the very first thing to learn is to differentiate the two. SKIN TYPE V/S SKIN CONDITION Though the terms may seem similar, they cannot be any more different. The most basic point of difference between the two is the fact that while not everyone has a skin condition, everyone does have skin type, which by the way, is determined by genetics. Skin types may keep changing seeing the environmental and climate changes, but it is most likely to stay for a prolonged time, if not forever, while skin conditions with correct measures, may not remain permanent. Skin conditions can be caused by various factors, such as hormonal changes, sun exposure, stress, lifestyle, and diet. Sometimes skin conditions are easily treated, but it often requires the assistance of a dermatologist. Learning more about the different skin types and various skin conditions can help you learn about your skin and how to care for it. SKIN TYPE There are 4 types of skin: normal, oily, dry, and combination. Normal Skin: Normal skin is typically smooth in appearance, has pink overtones, and barely noticeable pores. Dry Skin: Dry skin is thin, lacks brightness, can have fine wrinkles, is rough, and isn't flexible. It is caused due to underproduction of sebum. Stress, fatigue, hormones, cold weather and inadequate cosmetics are contributing factors to dry skin. Oily Skin: Oily skin appears to be shiny, mostly in the T-Zone of the face, thick and firm. Skin pores are very much visible. This skin type causes acne and pimples. Many people have oily skin during their teenage years. Hormones, stress, lifestyle and inadequate cosmetics are contributing factors. Combination Skin: This type of skin is a combination of oily and dry skin. In this case, most of the time, the skin is dry on the cheeks and oily on the T-Zone. SKIN CONDITION A skin condition is a specific problem that you are having with your skin. Though many are easily managed, it is advisable to do so with the assistance of a dermatologist. Acne: The most common of all skin conditions is acne. Not just reserved for the teen year, acnes are caused when pores are clogged due to oil and dead skin cells, which causes breakouts. Dehydrated Skin: This skin condition is not limited just to dry skin. Dehydrated skin is caused due to lack of water, while dry skin is the result of lack of oil. This condition leaves a thin skin that is more prone to fine lines and squamous skin. Pigmentation: There are many types of skin pigmentation conditions: some are hormonal, some hereditary, and some are due to the lifestyle. Depending on the type some go away on their own, some can be treated in the salon and with skincare and other types may need to be assisted by a dermatologist. Rosacea: Rosacea can be easily misunderstood as several other skin conditions, such as acne or sensitive skin. It is characterized by sustained inflammation, flushing, and redness. The cause of the condition is unknown, but if left unattended, it might get worse with time.
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Be Festive Ready with GreenOpia Naturals: 6 Ways to Lose Weight
Having a flatter belly is something that many people will struggle with at some point in their life. As the festive season approaches, it is hard to resist the temptation to indulge in all of the delicious junk foods that are around. But, luckily there are many ways to lose stomach fat! There are even different ways that can help you get rid of belly fat. You can take small steps every day to get your body back on track. Here are some tips for how you can look great this upcoming festive season. EXERCISE YOUR WAY THROUGH: One of the best ways to lose belly fat, and burn away any extra calories, is through exercise. Exercising is a good way to tone your abdominal muscles, and can help you reduce the risk of heart diseases and type 2 diabetes. The best form of exercise for burning calories quickly is through cardio. Cardio exercises such as running, biking, and swimming will help you burn more calories and fat. If you don’t like working out, you can try to take walks, or go for jogs in the mornings. It is important to stay active every day, even if it is just for like 60 minutes. That will help you burn those extra calories and get toned! DITCH DIET SODA: As much as we love to add the word ‘Diet’ to something just to rid ourselves of our guilty conscious, it really isn’t any help. Diet sodas are full of artificial sweeteners. According to research, these sweeteners trick your brain into thinking it is sugar, thus, making the body consume it in the same manner. A study suggests that people who consumed two or more diet sodas per day were six times more likely to gain weight around the belly than non-drinkers. BECOME BESTIES WITH WATER: Drinking water may help you lose weight by decreasing your appetite, increasing your metabolism, and helping you burn excess fat. A study observed that when participants drank water before a meal, they ate less food than they would if they didn't drink water before their meals. This is because water passes through the body faster and helps fill up the stomach to some extent. Lipolysis is the process where your body burns fat naturally and converts it to energy. Water is very important for this process. The first step in this process is called hydrolysis, which is a process where your body adds water to fat to help break it down. Thus increasing your water intake leads to increased metabolism, which results in weight loss. SPRINKLE BLACK PEPPER ON YOUR FOOD Indian spices have amazing health benefits apart from adding amazing flavor and taste to dishes. Among those spices is the black pepper. It can be considered a star ingredient that can not only just help you get clear skin, it can help achieve strong and healthy hair, and also help lose weight. Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that helps to enhance metabolic performance and prevents fat accumulation in the body. The spice also increases the concentration of good cholesterol. PUT A HOLD ON BEFORE-BED OR MIDNIGHT SNACKS Be it chips or a whole pizza, we all have had midnight cravings and have had food right before going to bed, or in bed. Munching on something at night can throw off your calorie-burning momentum. When you are sleeping, the burning of fats is at its peak. Recent medical studies have shown that eating between the hours of 11 p.m.-5 a.m. resulted in higher levels of blood glucose, insulin, and cholesterol. SLEEP TO LOSE WEIGHT No, you did not read it wrong. We solemnly swear that sleeping really aids in weight loss. Short sleep, usually defined as fewer than 7 hours, has been repeatedly linked to a higher body mass index (BMI) and weight gain. A study found short sleep duration to be significantly associated with greater waist circumference, which is an indicator of the accumulation of belly fat.
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