Raksha Bandhan is an important festival because it symbolizes much more than it is evident on the surface. A sister tying a ‘rakhi’ is symbolic of the belief that the bond will protect the brother against all evils and in exchange, the brother vows to protect his sister(s) and care for her all through his life. This unique ritual deepens the bond between siblings, which makes it so important.
When it comes to them being there for each other no matter what and protecting them against all dangers, it ought to include the dangers of ill health. Sedentary lifestyles and the rise of diseases has made it very important to exercise and eat healthily. While protecting your sibling against the other obvious dangers, make sure they care about their health starting this Raksha Bandhan. Take a vow to remind each other to work out and eat well to stay fit and healthy. Get FITCOACH and FITFEAST for each other and workout anywhere, anytime, and boost immunity by expert nutritional advice.
Oily foods and comfort foods sound enticing, especially on these special occasions but they are unlikely to protect your sibling(s) against ill health. They add extra pounds to your body that are particularly hard to cut down. Being overweight has many health risks. So, if you’re planning to indulge in some heavy snacks and foods, start your day with a toast and eggs, oatmeal, or cereal instead of parathas or aloo poori. Poha is also good to start your day. This is not just for the Raksha Bandhan – include plenty of protein, carbs, and fiber-rich foods in your meals. This keeps your metabolism up and ensures that your body gets all the nutrients it needs.
Sweet, sugary foods are very attractive but they contain just calories and no nutrition. They satisfy your cravings but affect your health and fitness. As you probably know, extra calories consumed in a day get stored in the body as fat and then, affect your body in many ways. Giving in to your cravings only makes them stronger over time. Plus, extra fat in your body means bad things for your heart, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. Therefore, have nutrient-dense foods instead of empty calories. For example, have dates and other dried fruits and nuts instead of, say, doughnuts, cookies, etc. Substitute sugar with jaggery. Satiate your sweet tooth with plenty of fruits, however, avoid drinking fruit juices, especially the packed ones.
Everyone snacks throughout the day and it is alright until you eat a lot of processed foods. Ask your brother or sister to stay away from potato chips, soft drinks, pizza, burger, momos, etc. and follow the same. It sounds difficult and it is too but you have to start somewhere. Instead of eating the previously mentioned foods, have fruits with yogurt, nuts, seeds, etc. They will make you feel full and satiate your cravings. Moreover, they will provide the necessary nutrients to your body and you do not have to think before having them unlike with processed snacks.
Exercising in addition to eating healthy is what makes and keeps you fit. No amount of healthy eating can help you reach the level of fitness exercising can. Therefore, pledge to workout together or at least motivate each other to do some kind of physical activity at least 4 times a week. Spend 30-45 minutes every day working out to build stamina, strengthen muscles, and gain flexibility. That way you burn extra calories and keep your weight in check. Whether it’s brisk walking, cycling, or a home workout, do whatever that suits you. Give your sibling that healthy competition, which will help you do better. According to studies, people are likely to put in more effort in their workout when they do it with someone. In fact, you can just call them every day to remind them about their workout or ask them about what they did during the day.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy Raksha Bandhan!
