Friday, November 3, 2023

Be a SPIRIT - LIFTER

I woke up last Sunday and had a cup of my morning green tea with the regular multi-grain biscuit for a healthy start of the day. While I was enjoying the hot tea on a windy morning, I realized that all I wanted was to have a job, and now when I have one, I am still looking for something more. Why? Well. I don't have any answer for that mysterious 'Why'.
The everyday life schedule is a routine work and my work place is a great way to make my mood happy, seriously. I love writing, and that's what I am doing my 9 hours on the job daily. But still, there's something which I can't figure out myself. I tried to do some activities to deviate myself from this thought like, watching comedy episodes, going out with bunch of friends, shop till I drop, etc. and still it's a temporary avoidance to my mood.
I always loved reading, so a few months back, in one of the non-fiction books I read these lines, "be a spirit-lifter". That's when my mind clicked and I started searching more on this aspect. I really liked the way the author presented his views on finding inner peace. You don't have to be victims of circumstances, but you can own them in your way.
In fact, what's interesting to note is that finding happiness in your current situations will ward-off your sufferings to a great extent because you are what you are currently and that's why it's called 'A Present'. If you just stop thinking and start believing, it'll be a no-worry state for the rest of your life. Being lively is a beautiful way to keep yourself fit and healthy and absolutely free from diseases. We can't change the circumstances, but we can surely change the way to look inside.
Sometimes, from others experiences we learn a great deal about ourselves, and what's better than learning from other people's experiences. There's absolutely no harm in knowing your environment. We just need to accept the fact that not always, we will be making the right decision, but if it is 'my' decision, I should not regret it, and failures are a stepping stone to success.
In my personal opinion, if it's still not working for you, you can try these few activities which you can include in your daily routine, and see the fun part of you making space in your body:
  • Eat often and eat light. Don't fill your stomach in one go. Try to eat at regular intervals.
  • Early to bed, early to rise. This is an age-old phrase, but a very apt one. It's always good to follow the concept of early sleep and waking up early.
  • Go out. Staying indoors makes you lethargic and vulnerable to nonsense thinking. Instead, indulge yourself in outdoor activities. You will remain fit and fantastic
  • Listen to your favorite track. Music is definitely a healer and mood enhancer. A little voice in your head always makes a positive soul.
  • Aromatic environment. Studies also finds that fragrance around you indulges your all senses and automatically your mind is healed.
  • Act of giving. Always try to serve the needy and see what mental satisfaction you get after it. There's nothing better than volunteering for some cause and making some efforts from your comfort zone.
  • Play. Make a habit of exercising your mind and body by playing games, both puzzles and group games. This will sharpen your mind and distract you from unnecessary thinking.
Have a positive mindet no matter what, and you will become a spirit-lifter forever and an inspiration to the people around you.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Karvachauth: A festival of love

I love my country regardless of how many bad incidents keep happening on an hourly basis. India is so rich in culture and heritage that every 20 km, you can see something new among the inhabitants. Today is one of the most auspicious occasions celebrated in most of the Northern region of India, Karvachauth. You can say that, it's proof of a woman being happily married to her eternal love, her husband. This is a rigorous fast where the women don't eat or drink for the whole day till she sees the moon in the night. The moon is a reflection of her husband's face and that's how the fast is said to be completed. In fact, while keeping fast, they still keep on doing their daily activities, and it still is a mystery to me that how can she do all the routine activities and not have a single drop of water. I guess, this is no logic, but a commitment of love and care of her love. Also, some men keeps fast showing their love for their wives. My brother does that for his wife
When I was young, the 1st thing I did was to go to my mother, and see her mehndi on Karvachauth. It looked beautiful. She is a perfect example, as per me, of an ideal lady who is a perfect mother, wife, daughter, etc. I wish her a Happy Karvachauth, and told her to be happy and healthy and I'm definitely sure that I'm going to see a beautifully dressed up woman in an elegant saree in the evening.

Now, I myself observe this beautiful festival with full energy and a lot of love for Sahil.. I feel privileged to celebrate love in this way. I apply mehendi on one hand, and my husband tries to make the best design on my other hand (I almost cry, even after 6 years of my marriage when he does it). For me, Karvachauth reminds me of the love and devotion for my family. Most people still find it as a regressive festival, but it always gives me strength to be always there for my husband and his family. I have a beautiful sasuraal, and they keep my like a queen. When there is so much adoration and respect, well..., nirjal fast becomes a piece of cake

Sunday, September 24, 2023

Thanking is an important gesture... Dil Se!

How many times have you thanked someone?
How often have you expressed gratitude to your friends, family members, peers...  or any stranger? I'm sure, we do it almost daily.., but the real question is,
"Did you thank because you 'really meant it' or because of some sort of compulsion?"
We are, by nature, more responsive to abuse and react to it more often than being patient and saying good words to people around us.
Honestly, sometimes I also find myself falling into that category very often. But when I realized the power of appreciating, I felt that I was building more negativity around me unnecessarily. Why do we say false words to someone? or, why do we find faults in the system? The system has been like that since its inception, it is your perception which matters. You find fault because your mind isn't adjusted to a new environment because mind is too habituated to the usual set up. Instead of talking bad about it, find ways to improve if you think something needs to be changed or just be positive.
Make a habit to see positive qualities in people & learn to grasp it.
Believe me or not, each one of us have some good trait/quality to offer. Knowledge has to be continuous for growth and development.
In a world that moves at lightning speed, gratitude is the pause that reminds us of what truly matters. A simple “Thank You” isn’t just good manners—it’s a superpower. It can mend relationships, brighten someone’s day, and even transform your own outlook on life.
A study suggests that the number of times you stay genuinely happy and make others happy, the more you ward-off the diseases and tiredness from your body.
You will make yourself more flexible and will grow mature if you keep an open mind always.
For an exercise, make a list of good and bad words which you say in your daily life.
Once you are finished doing it, retrospect, if you have more bad words than good words (most of us will have bad ones) and motivate yourself more if you have more good words in your list. Good habits never die, instead they stay with you as your asset and inspire others in many ways.
Similarly, in your daily routine there are a lot of people who would have helped you make your day good. Have you ever thanked your maid or car cleaner or laundry man for their services or the cleaner who brooms your vicinity?
Remember the 'Jaadu-ki-Jhappi' movie scene...
It may sound funny, but think about it.They also need some sort of appreciation for their work, regardless of how minute the work may sound to you. It actually boosts their inner self to work in a better way because they know that someone will definitely give them a pat on their back. You can always take some time off from your work and at least acknowledge them because they are the ones who makes your surroundings clean.
What I mean by "Dil Se" is the appreciation and love you can give from the deepest core of your heart. Think of that time when the Indian cricket team is playing against Pakistan in a final match and we win by a small margin... how much excited and elated we are.. that's the real happiness I'm searching for.
Not only them, but a lot more people contribute to your good life and with a simple 'Thank You' gesture or note, you can see that everyone is happy around you and ultimately you are happy within.

Wish you a Happy Day!

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

The Magic of Pomodoro Technique

 The Pomodoro Technique: How to Break Through Work Blocks and Stay Focused

Are you tired of feeling stuck and unproductive at work? Do you struggle to stay focused and motivated? If so, you're not alone. Many of us face challenges with productivity and time management, but there is a simple yet powerful technique that can help: the Pomodoro Technique.

What is the Pomodoro Technique?

The Pomodoro Technique was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s. The technique is named after a kitchen timer shaped like a tomato (Pomodoro in Italian) that Cirillo used to help him stay focused. The technique is based on the idea of working in focused, 25-minute increments, called "Pomodoros," separated by 5-minute breaks.

How Does the Pomodoro Technique Work?

Here's a step-by-step guide to using the Pomodoro Technique:
  1. Choose a task: Select a task you want to work on. Make sure it's a specific, tangible task that can be completed in a short period.
  2. Set the timer: Set a timer for 25 minutes (or another length of time that works for you). This is your Pomodoro.
  3. Work without interruptions: Focus exclusively on your task during the Pomodoro. Avoid interruptions, emails, phone calls, and social media.
  4. Take a break: When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break. Stand up, stretch, move around, or do something relaxing.
  5. Repeat the cycle: After your break, start a new Pomodoro. Repeat the cycle for a total of 4-6 Pomodoros per session.
  6. Take a longer break: After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.

Benefits of the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique has numerous benefits that can help you stay focused and productive. It helps to improve your focus, make time for your creative hobbies, get rid of mental blocks, better time management and it is the best way to reduce mental fatigue

Tips for Implementing the Pomodoro Technique

To get the most out of the Pomodoro Technique, here are some tips to keep in mind:
  • Start small: Begin with shorter Pomodoros (e.g., 10-15 minutes) and gradually increase the duration as you build focus and endurance.
  • Be flexible: Adjust the length of your Pomodoros and breaks to suit your needs and work style.
  • Use a timer: A timer can help you stay on track and maintain the discipline required for the Pomodoro Technique.
  • Minimize distractions: Eliminate or minimize distractions during your Pomodoros, such as turning off notifications or finding a quiet workspace.
  • Take breaks seriously: Make sure to take breaks and recharge between Pomodoros.
The Pomodoro Technique is a simple yet powerful tool for boosting productivity and staying focused. By working in focused intervals, eliminating distractions, and taking regular breaks, you can overcome work blocks and achieve your goals. Give the Pomodoro Technique a try and see how it can transform your work habits and improve your overall well-being.