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8 Interesting Facts About Yoga You May Not Know

Interesting facts about yoga

By this time around, we are all well-versed about yoga and what it can do to your mind, body and soul. We all know that it began in India, it consists of physical asanas and breathing techniques. At some point in time, we have even attempted yoga.

Then, there are some facts that not many people know about. So the next time you’re at a social gathering with your yogi friends, you can just share these interesting facts with them as your learning of the day!

1. Yoga is Found in One of the Oldest Texts in the World

The word ‘yoga’ was first mentioned in the Rig Veda, written approximately around 1500 B.C or before! This only goes to show that yoga has been in our culture since time memorial, especially if it was mentioned in one of the oldest texts in the world!

2. Yoga Can Cause Injuries

Yes, it can heal your mind, body and soul. It can also alleviate a lot of health issues but it can hurt you as well. Yoga is like a double-edged sword, if not practiced correctly, you could injure yourself. But don’t get too tangled! If you find a good enough teacher (like our experts on GOQii Play :D) and exercise caution, you should be fine!

3. It Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

Other than reducing stress, it also helps lower blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood glucose levels, thus, in turn, promoting good heart health. A handy lifestyle intervention, we’d say!

4. There is no Shortage of Variety

As a generation that is spoiled for choice, you’ll be glad to know that there is no shortage of asanas when it comes to yoga! With over 84 asanas, you’ll have plenty of variety to choose from.

5. It Can Spice Up Your Sex Life

This primarily works on two levels: mental and physical. Yoga helps you counteract stress, fatigue and poor self-image, all of which can suppress your libido. It can also help you increase your flexibility, muscle control and strength, all of which help you physically. Your sex life will be blooming after a few asanas!

6. Yogis Believe We Have Limited Number of Breaths

This explains the reason why breathing is so controlled in yoga. Yogis often practiced it as a means to increase their lifespan. As they believed that each human has a limited amount of breaths allotted to them, controlling their breath would help them prolong their life.

7. Lord Shiva is Considered the First Yogi

Lord Shiva is considered the progenitor of yoga, the first yogi or the Adiyogi. He was the first one who sowed the seeds of yoga into the human mind. Lord Shiva had imparted the wisdom of yoga to seven individuals who came to be known as Saptarishis and were tasked with spreading it throughout the world.

8. Yoga Can Increase Your Lifespan

When people say “Yoga is Life”, they aren’t lying. It improves your heart health, helps you lose weight, makes your bones stronger, aids digestion and improves mental and emotional health, to name a few. With so much work going into your body, you are bound to live a long and fruitful life!

Now that you’re all geared up on knowledge, it is time to share it with the world!

If you want to brush up on your yoga skills or are a beginner, join a live, interactive GOQii PRO class where you’ll be guided by an expert in real time. Book a class from the GOQii App now.

Did we miss out on any interesting facts? Do you know some more? Share them with us in the comments below!

#BeTheForce and wish you a Happy and Blissful Yoga Day!

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Endometriosis: A Silent Menace Disrupting Women’s Lives

Endometriosis: A silent killer

Earlier this year, GOQii conducted a focused group study among 3000 women to understand which health issues they are facing. The Women’s Health Matters survey highlighted some key issues such as menstrual problems, PCOS, hypothyroidism, UTI, Fibroid and issues with infertility which continue to persist despite the increased focus on women’s health. Apart from these issues, we also found a looming threat to women’s health in the form of endometriosis.

We found that approximately 6% of women suffer from endometriosis. As compared to the other issues, this percentage might seem small but endometriosis is a growing issue among many women. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in India and is increasing in prevalence. 

What Is Endometriosis? 

Endometriosis is a painful and debilitating disease that affects many women. It is a condition in which the endometrium, the tissue that lines the uterus, grows outside the uterus and onto the ovaries, fallopian tubes, peritoneum, and other organs in the abdominal cavity. 

This can cause severe pain during menstruation, severe pelvic pain, and infertility. The cause of endometriosis is still unknown, and the exact biological mechanisms are yet to be determined. However, research has suggested that genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may contribute to the development of the disease. 

Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone have been identified as potential culprits, as they have been found to stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.  Additionally, genetics may play a role, as endometriosis appears to be passed down through families. 

Environmental factors may also contribute to the development of endometriosis. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as dioxins, can increase the risk of developing the condition. Additionally, prolonged use of hormonal contraceptives and intrauterine devices has been linked to the condition.

As per the survey, 57.1% of the women surveyed have been suffering from endometriosis for anywhere between 1-5 years.

Endometriosis 2

Symptoms Include: 

  • Painful periods
  • Pelvic pain
  • Cramping
  • Abnormal or heavy bleeding
  • Pain during or after sex
  • Difficulty getting pregnant
  • Fatigue.

Other symptoms may include bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, and painful bowel movements. Endometriosis can also cause emotional distress and depression. Some women may experience pain in their lower back, thighs or rectum. The long term health issues involving pain, fatigue and depression can lead to a reduction in quality of life, as well as decreased productivity. 

How Can You Manage Endometriosis? 

Managing Endometriosis can be a challenging affair but it is not impossible! Here are several tips and strategies to keep in mind: 

  1. Consult with a healthcare professional: It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional experienced in endometriosis. They can provide a proper diagnosis, suggest treatment options, and offer ongoing support.
  2. Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about endometriosis. Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and available treatment options will empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
  3. Pain management: Pain is a common symptom of endometriosis. Explore pain management strategies such as over-the-counter pain relievers, heating pads, hot baths, relaxation techniques, and gentle exercise. You might need prescription medications in case of severe pain.
  4. Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms, so it’s important to find effective stress management techniques. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
  5. Diet and nutrition: Some individuals find that certain foods worsen their symptoms. Consider keeping a food diary to identify potential triggers, such as caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, or high-fat meals. Eating a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can be beneficial.
  6. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve overall health and reduce symptoms. Aim for moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best exercise plan for your specific situation.
  7. Support network: Seek support from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and concerns with others who understand can be comforting and provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
  8. Self-care: Prioritize self-care activities which help you relax and promote wellbeing. This can include getting enough sleep, engaging in activities you enjoy, setting boundaries, and practicing self-compassion.

Last but not the least, awareness of the condition is needed so that women can seek help early and receive the treatment they need to ensure that they are able to manage their symptoms and live full and healthy lives.

If this article helped you, let us know in the comments below. Know someone suffering from this condition? Share this article with them. Find more articles on women’s health here. To help you manage women’s health issues, get expert advice from our coaches by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

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Mangoes: To Eat or Not To Eat!

MangoesWorried that eating a Mango will lead to weight gain? Even the largest mango would hardly be 110 cal. It’s not the mango that makes you fat. A 100-gram mango contains 75 calories and a larger one approximately 107 -130 calories depending on the size.

Now consuming one medium-sized mango is perfectly fine, so long as you follow my thumb rule of consuming a couple of nuts immediately after the fruit  (so that the simple sugars in the fruit, don’t raise your blood sugar levels to fast. The fibre in the nuts stabilize that effect).

Mangoes Have A Number Of Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: They are loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin A, C, E, Thiamine and several minerals.
  • Anti-Cancer Properties: It is high in soluble dietary fibre known as pectin. A scientist has identified a strong link between eating lots of fibre and a lower risk of cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. A cup of sliced mangoes (around 165 gram) contains 76 percent of the needed daily value of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant which helps protect cells from free radical damage and reduces the risk of cancer.
  • Eye Health: They are rich in vitamin A that promotes eye health and prevents dryness of the eye.
  • Digestion: They contain enzymes that aid protein metabolism and digestion. The fruit is also rich in fibre and helps prevent constipation.
  • Acne and skin: Mango pulp when rubbed on the face can help cure acne and soothe the skin. It promotes great complexion and hence, is a vital ingredient in many cosmetic products and creams.
  • Rich in Vitamin E: They contain vitamin E that regulates sex hormones and boosts sex drive.
  • Boosts Memory & Concentration: Mangoes are excellent for children. Serve during breakfast or while they are studying for exams, as mango has the ability to boost concentration levels and memory.
  • Gain Weight: Mangoes blended with whole milk and dates help put on weight
  • For Diabetics: Even though high in sugar, they can be given in moderation to a person who is diabetic. Its best served with high fibre food like oats or muesli (chop a mango and add it to the oats, porridge or muesli), so blood sugar levels are regulated. Mangoes are low GI foods, so they would not have a negative impact unless eaten at the wrong time and in the wrong quantity.

For those watching their weight, indulge in a mango a day, if it’s a large mango, share it.  If you have two mangoes in a day (moderation is key), then have other low sugar fruits like banana, berries, or oranges, on that day and eat fibre foods. The combination of mango and sugar, for example in a shake or smoothie, is what makes it dangerous for our weight and sugar levels. So eat the fruit whole and in its natural form.

Did this article help you? Let us know in the comments below. Learn more on nutrition here or just speak to a GOQii Coach by subscribing to Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

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51% Of Women Still Struggle With Ongoing Health Issues | GOQii Women’s Health Report

Women's Health Report

Women’s health is of paramount importance. Women need to ensure that they take the time to look after their physical and mental well-being. They need to put their health first and make sure that they are doing all they can to stay healthy and strong. 

In the aftermath of the pandemic, just how extensive was the effect on Women’s Health? To find out, GOQii conducted a focused group study with around 3000 women with questions pertaining to menstrual patterns, PCOD, Thyroid, fertility, conception and pregnancy. 

Women’s Health Issues Continue To Persist 

In the report, we found that 51% of women in India continue to struggle with ongoing health issues such as menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, UTI and fibroids, diabetes, and infertility.

Nearly 41.7% of women have PCOS for more than five years, and a similar number of women have had the diagnosis within the past 12 months. Also, 63.3% of those polled experience irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles as a result of PCOS, and 41.7% of the female respondents were unaware that changing one’s lifestyle can help manage PCOS.

Endometriosis Emerges As A Silent Menace

Endometriosis has emerged as a new health issue, affecting one in every 10 women of reproductive age. The survey found that 57.1% of women have had endometriosis for one to five years. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside of the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvis. It can cause painful periods, pain during or after sex, and infertility. 

Research has indicated that genetic, hormonal and environmental factors may play a role in the onset of endometriosis, though the exact cause of the condition is still unknown. The survey also indicates that 16.5% of women have menstrual issues, and 1.2% have infertility issues, with 21.7% of the women agreeing that their advanced age was indeed a factor contributing to infertility issues.

A woman’s age is a critical determinant in her chances of becoming pregnant and having a healthy child. In India, the childbearing age of women has been steadily increasing over the past decade. This can be attributed to factors such as an increasing number of women in the workforce, rising levels of education, improved access to contraception and changing social norms.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help? 

The report concludes that lifestyle modifications can help manage various women’s health issues. Our Founder and CEO Vishal Gondal said in the report that due to the demands of daily life and the juggling of work, family and home commitments, women frequently overlook their health, and emphasized incorporating lifestyle changes into everyday life.

Women need to make sure that they are eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing their stress levels. Women also need to make time for self-care activities such as yoga & meditation. Women’s health is a priority, women need to remember that their health is their greatest asset, and they must look after it accordingly.

To read the detailed report, click here. For more on improving women’s health issues through lifestyle, click here.

#BeTheForce

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]