Health

Tackling The Mental Health Landscape With Dr Aditi Govitrikar

Talk about an illustrious career! Dr Aditi Govitrikar went from obstetrician/gynaecologist to being a model and then turned to acting! Her most recent qualification is that of a counselling psychologist. In an eye-opening interview, Bidisha Barik discusses mental and physical well-being with the 90s star, who has many feathers in her hat as a wellness expert, medical doctor, psychologist, actor, and supermodel. Dr Govitrikar also highlights how mental health continues to be stigmatised in India and how individuals must take initiative to help those who are struggling with the same.

1. What impact has your transformation from actor to wellness expert and psychologist had on you as a person?

I still perform, and I recently finished two web series for Netflix and Disney+ Hotstar. I do, however, act as a wellness expert, a psychologist, and a counsellor. The effect this has had on me as a person is that I prefer to remain cool in the face of adversity, and I’m a lot better at dealing with hurdles.

I don’t fixate on bad ideas or feelings since I can snap out of it pretty fast. As a human being or as a person who lives in the moment, I am acutely aware of my thoughts and feelings. At the same time, I’m conscious of other people’s body language and what isn’t being spoken, and I’m tremendously at ease in being quiet, not only with myself but also with others’ silence. I utilise this to empower individuals who come into touch with me, which is my life’s goal: that whoever encounters me should learn, even if they don’t advance to the next level, even if it’s only a baby step. That is how development is made. It is by this principle that I live now.

“It all comes down to ‘Consistency.’”

2. What are your thoughts on the mental illness taboo that still prevails today? What can be done about it?

I believe that much more needs to be done in the area of mental illness and its taboo because it is still very prevalent in India. People still regard depression, panic attacks, anxiety, or any other mental illness as a sign of weakness, and this is something that we need to talk about in mainstream media and on social media.

We need influencers to talk about it because that is how people will become aware of it. And people will realise that mental illness is something that can be treated, managed, and is not a sign of weakness. It is not something that can be remedied by going for a stroll, watching a movie, or eating ice cream.

3. What does a healthy lifestyle means to you?

Consistency and tiny measures made every day are what lead to you being healthy in the end. I can’t get up one morning and say, “Today, I’m going to work out for three hours and that will take care of my physical health.” It is critical that you exercise for at least 15 minutes or half an hour every day since this will ultimately contribute to physical well-being.

Similarly, when it comes to mental health, it’s crucial to consider that we pay a lot of attention to our physical health and pay attention to what we eat, but we don’t pay attention to what our brains eat. Detoxing your mind, sitting still and calmly, and paying attention to what your mind consumes are all essential. A healthy lifestyle, in my opinion, is one that strikes a balance between physical and mental well-being.

“A healthy lifestyle, in my opinion, is one that strikes a balance between physical and mental well-being.”

4. What are your healthy behaviours on a daily basis?

I work out five times a week, alternating between strength, endurance, and flexibility. So, I do weight training twice a week and cardio on the other days. I also do flexibility exercises to keep my spine and joints flexible. Aside from that, I undertake intermittent fasting three to four times a week, ranging from 14 to 16 hours. I drink enough water and I am a vegetarian, which is beneficial for my health, and I enjoy eating vegetarian meals. Meditation is an important part of my life, and if something negative occurs, I talk to someone and evaluate the problem; this is how I stay healthy.

5. What advice would you give to anybody who struggles to be physically and mentally fit?

Stop struggling is my counsel to everyone who is struggling to be mentally and physically fit. There is no need to put up a fight. I place a high value on language and vocabulary, so instead of saying “I’m battling to get in shape,” we could say “I’m going on a path to achieve a specific level of physical fitness,” which is the goal you should set for yourself. In terms of important goals, be extremely explicit in what you say to yourself.

Defining your goals in very concrete words is the start of a fantastic adventure. One thing I will say is that it all comes down to ‘Consistency.’ You must take action to improve your physical and emotional well-being. Exercising for 15 minutes every day or practising meditation can set you on the road to achieving your goals. Consistently take baby steps and be gentle to yourself.

6. Three myths surrounding mental health?

The first of three incredibly widespread mental health misconceptions is that you will be OK on your own or that love will cure it. It’s not required that if I have someone in my life who isn’t feeling well and they receive soft, caring attention, they will feel better. If a bone fracture occurs, we seek expert assistance with casting and allow time for healing. Similarly, when our minds are troubled, it is crucial to get expert care; love alone will not be enough to repair mental health disorders. Yes, it is important to help someone who is suffering from mental illness; nevertheless, the medicine may be necessary at times, and this does not imply that your love for your spouse, friends, or others is diminished.

The second widespread misconception is that it is a sign of weakness. That is not the case; it is chemical in nature, and biochemistry in the body may change, resulting in a variety of problems. Seeking treatment for mental health issues is a sign of strength.

The third misconception is that children do not experience depression. Panic attacks, despair, and other mental health concerns can affect children. Do not disregard it. Any mental health condition does not differ based on age.

“It all comes down to ‘Consistency.’”

Myth-Busting Mental Heath

Love alone will not be enough to repair mental health disorders.
Seeking treatment for mental health issues is a sign of strength.
Mental health concerns can affect children.

7. First thing you do after waking up in the morning?

I convey my appreciation. I express gratitude for the fact that I can breathe, that I have a roof over my head, that I have close loved ones, and so on.

December 24, 2021

Wedding Wellness with Luke Coutinho: Starting the Journey

Luke Coutinho, India’s leading Integrative Lifestyle Expert, believes that true wedding prep goes far beyond fitting into an outfit or chasing picture-perfect looks. For him, it’s about building strength, balance, and inner calm that lasts well beyond the wedding day. Here, he shares his holistic wellness guide for brides and grooms stepping into this new chapter. From a holistic health perspective, how early should brides and grooms start preparing their bodies for the wedding? I’ve always believed that wedding prep should start with the inside. If we’re talking about sustainable energy, balanced hormones, strong immunity, or calm emotional states it’s not a 15-day crash course. It’s a rhythm you build. Ideally, I encourage couples to begin six to 12 months in advance. That gives us space to work on the deeper layers like gut repair, sleep cycles, metabolic health, and emotional resilience. Even three months can make a real difference if done right. But more than timelines, I believe in intention. Whether you start 12 months or six weeks before, ask yourself: Am I just trying to look good for a day, or do I want to feel well through all the days that follow? How can couples set wellness goals that go beyond just looking good in wedding photos?It’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics wanting to fit into a certain outfit or chase a number on the scale. But real wellness is about how you feel your energy, your digestion, your mood, your ability to stay calm amidst the chaos. I always tell couples: Don’t make the goal about shrinking your body. Make it about strengthening your health, supporting your hormones, and building the emotional resilience to actually enjoy your wedding. When you feel good inside, it shows up outside on your skin, in your eyes, and

Health

Eating Right, Feeling Bright: How to Stay Healthy and Happy This Festive Season

As the festive season arrives, it’s easy to get swept up in the celebration and sometimes, overdo it. Between rich sweets, back-to-back parties, and emotional highs (and lows), maintaining your health both physical and emotional can become challenging. SINDURI VUPPALA speaks to two experts Dietician Vidhi Chawla, Founder of FISICO Diet & Aesthetic Clinic, and Rajvir Kohar, a seasoned Mental Health Clinician to bring you a guide on how to eat mindfully and feel emotionally balanced this season. “It’s okay not to feel festive. Honour your emotions.” – Mental Health Clinician Rajvir Kohar While cultural celebrations and holidays offer opportunities for connections and joy, they also come with increased expectations and responsibilities. Research indicates that mental health symptoms such as stress, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and emotional eating often rise during the festive season. Many individuals experience heightened stress around the holidays, primarily due to factors such as financial strain, time pressures, and family dynamics. Financial challenges can be particularly overwhelming, as people feel the burden of purchasing gifts, hosting gatherings, and keeping up with social expectations. For individuals already managing financial constraints, these demands can deepen feelings of inadequacy or guilt. Additionally, the festive season can bring emotional pain for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Others may experience a profound sense of loneliness, especially if they lack close family or social networks, making the celebratory atmosphere feel isolating rather than inclusive. Common mental health symptoms during this period include disturbed sleep, changes in appetite (either overeating or under-eating), increased irritability, fatigue, and social withdrawal. While these feelings are common, they often go unnoticed amidst societal expectations to “stay cheerful.” Despite these challenges, it is possible to approach the festive season with mindfulness and care. By adopting practical strategies, you can protect your mental health and still engage

Health

Managing Psychological Stress in Marriage in India

Marriage, while often seen as a sacred bond in India, is also a complex partnership that involves emotional investment, societal expectations, and continuous adaptation. In the Indian context, marriage isn’t just a union between two individuals it’s often a confluence of families, traditions, and social norms. While love and companionship are central, psychological stress can quietly build over time due to unmet expectations, communication gaps, external pressures, and the lack of personal space. Managing this stress effectively is crucial for a healthy and fulfilling marital life. Understanding the Sources of Stress Recognizing the Signs of Stress Psychological stress in marriage often doesn’t manifest dramatically. Instead, it appears in small, persistent ways: If left unaddressed, this stress can escalate into anxiety disorders, depression, or even marital breakdown. Strategies to Manage Marital Stress 1. Open, Non-Judgmental Communication The cornerstone of any successful marriage is healthy communication. Couples must learn to express themselves openly, without fear of being judged. Schedule “talk time” to share your thoughts, concerns, or even simple day-to-day feelings. Use “I feel” statements rather than blame-focused language to prevent defensiveness. 2. Set Realistic Expectations Bollywood and societal portrayals of “perfect marriages” create unrealistic standards. Accept that no marriage is without flaws. Understand each other’s limitations and strengths, and be willing to compromise without losing your core identity. 3. Establish Boundaries with Extended Family While respecting elders and family traditions is important, couples must create healthy boundaries. This includes making joint decisions independently, especially on matters like finances, parenting, or living arrangements. A united front reduces external interference and strengthens the couple’s bond. 4. Seek Professional Help Therapy is still stigmatized in parts of India, but counseling individuals or couples can be transformative. A trained therapist helps you identify patterns, improve communication, and resolve conflicts constructively. Many Indian metro cities and

Health

Why Soaking Rice Reduces Glucose: Science, Steps, and Stats

Rice is a staple food for millions across the globe, but it’s also often blamed for raising blood sugar levels—especially white rice due to its high glycemic index (GI). However, a simple, age-old practice can help: soaking rice before cooking. This traditional method doesn’t just make rice softer and faster to cook—it also offers a science-backed way to reduce its glucose content and make it healthier. Hashtag Magazines gives you a lowdown… The Science Behind Soaking Rice When you soak rice, several things happen: Supporting Research and Statistics A study published in Food Chemistry (2015) found: Another study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted: A 2022 clinical trial in India showed: How to Soak Rice to Lower Glucose Step-by-Step Method: Glycemic Index Reduction – Before & After Soaking Type of Rice GI (Unsoaked) GI (After Soaking) White rice 72 60–65 Brown rice 68 55–60 Basmati rice 58 45–50 Red rice 55 40–48 Additional Tips to Reduce Sugar Spike from Rice Why This Matters for Diabetics and Health-Conscious Eaters Blood sugar spikes can lead to fatigue, weight gain, insulin resistance, and long-term complications like diabetes or heart disease. Making simple changes like soaking rice helps: Conclusion Soaking rice is a simple, no-cost step with massive health benefits. Whether you’re managing diabetes, watching your weight, or just aiming for better gut health, soaking rice before cooking can significantly lower its glucose impact. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in Indian kitchens, now backed by science.