Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Covid-19 | Preventive Measures against Coronavirus
Covid-19 continues to spread across various countries, bringing many cities to a standstill and forcing us to change our everyday work routine. Several precautions being taken by health ministries and governments of different countries, states - ranging from shutting down cinema halls, to gyms, swimming pools and even educational institutions. Even certain companies aren't far behind - with many offering 'work from home' facilities, to ensure that their employees avoid traveling in larger crowds. Every individual is busy creating their own list of preventive steps. And no, chanting 'Go Corona' isn't a definite step. Nope!
While updates roll out, it is important to note - Social media is packed with tons of information. Well, that's a fact. The internet is filled with all kinds of misconceptions, rumours, fake forwards and suggestions - many of which are constantly churned out from the social media factory. As alert citizens, it is our duty to share the right piece of information and be aware about the integral tips that need to be followed. While you research and look at various factors behind this disaster, let's just understand one fact - We must follow the basic necessities first! As a socially conscious creator, I felt the need to compile and share some important protective measures against Covid-19 (key reference: World Health Organisation). Remember, we are in this together! Let's make this world a better place, and fight against Covid-19 responsibly.
And while you are at it - remember to save water and avoid keeping the tap on, while you use the soap.
Please feel free to share these tips with your loved ones. And remember - avoid spreading rumours! As alert citizens, let's be responsible for the content and messages that we share. Also, it would be great if we can integrate basic hygiene processes in our daily routine more effectively. Things like using a sanitiser or washing hands regularly as basic ways in which we can prevent many more diseases.
Follow World Health Organisation @WHO on Twitter for official information and updates regarding Covid-19. Alternatively, you can also choose to follow the official handle of your nation's health ministry (For India - you can follow Ministry of Health)
Stay Safe. Be Alert! Lots of love to each and every follower.
For exclusive updates and news, join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
Tips to reduce Period Pain | Let's Talk about Periods
As women, we go through the monthly grind of tracking our period dates, experiencing mood swings during the time of PMS and what follows is obviously the real deal - your monthly cycle of periods. Every human body is different, so what your mother or sibling experiences during her monthly cycle may not be the same for you and vice versa. While pre and during menstrual cycle symptoms differ from person to person - including acne, bloating, tender breasts, massive change in mood (ranging from anger, irritation, feeling lethargic to emotional) and some even tend to fall severely sick with cold, fever. However, period cramps and pain is something that we all experience.
While the nature of pain, it's level and pain points may be different, what's constant is the discomfort experienced during the cycle. It does get difficult to focus on work and other commitments, especially during the first 2-3 days, when the heavy flow coupled with pain pushes an individual to the edge. While some people prefer popping an OTC medicine, many of us don't like to take any pills. Several women experience excruciating pain, while some simply have muscular pains / cramps on the first day. Period pain differs from person to person, depending upon personal health and lifestyle. There's a lot to it than what meets the eye, so if anyone suffers from any form of pain that is impossible to handle, one must visit their doctor / gynaecologist and get this discussed.
I've always used this platform to share my own experiences. So, why not this? Starting today, our new series - "Let's Talk about Periods' will feature posts that focus on personal thoughts, remedies, and anecdotes related to a topic that is something that we all - as women - experience. The idea stemmed from an incident, where I realised how even in 2019, people go red or shut their ears when someone speaks about pads, sanitary hygiene and periods on a public platform. In a country that still considers 'menstruation' as a taboo and something which shouldn't be spoken about on a larger platform. We need more discussions on something as basic as a period cycle, and share our thoughts, which can help other women, especially young girls, with the required knowledge.
Let's kick off the first post, where I discuss personally tried and tested tips, which help me ease the discomfort during a period cycle
Drink ample of Water
Many of you may find this to be a cliched. But, we don't realise the importance of water and it's miracles enough. Lack of water tends to make the body feel more sluggish and can lead to mental stress. Drinking enough water (at least 2-3 litres), especially during your cycle, will not only keep you hydrated, but also ensure that the toxins are flushed out and eases out bloating. I always carry a bottle of water with me, wherever I go. It helps during long hours spent in traffic, and drinking water in regular intervals also ensures that the body functions perfectly.
Exercise - be it in any form!
A lot of us feel it's too much of an effort to drag ourselves and work out, especially when in pain. But, I've realised that nothing can help me distract from those cramps, quite like exercising does. Over time, I've seen the effect it has on the pain, as the endorphins released from the body does an excellent job at pain management. Plus, it supports proper flow of blood in the body, makes you feel happier from within, and throws out all the stress, tightness, making your body feel more flexible and light. Of course, you may want to give certain forms a miss if it gets too uncomfortable, but I personally love dancing, light running, yoga free hand exercises, and aerobics.
Take a hot water shower or bath
I am more of a bucket bath person, as I don't like wasting water. However, I love opting for hot water baths during the period cycle. Sometimes, I even add essential oils or use a refreshing shower gel to pamper myself. Such little efforts contribute to easing those cramps, and also helps release any form of stress, sluggishness or pain. Application of heat is known to benefit cramps quite well. One can even opt for a hot water bag, if the pain is intense.
Love me some Chamomile & Ginger Tea
During the monthly cycle, I usually prefer to have my regular cup of tea with ginger (and even on other days - as I cannot have plain tea). While I have ginger or masala tea in the morning, evenings are reserved for Chamomile tea. The anti-inflammatory properties in this tea helps ease cramps to a large extent. After a long tiring day at work, a hot cup of chamomile tea takes away all the stress, calms the mind and helps ensure I sleep well. This is has been one of my personal favourite picks, and I highly recommend that you try Chamomile tea as well.
Keep an eye on your Diet
This is crucial! During the period cycle, one tends to feel more inclined towards eating a lot of fried, cheesy or junk fast food items. Plus, midnight cravings push you to explore the dessert section, and hog on chocolates, pastries a little more often. I have a massive sweet tooth, and do have the cravings for sweets during my period cycle. However, I try to limit my chocolate intake, and usually opt for dark chocolate. Also, eating fresh fruits and / or green leafy veggies is a major plus. Your body needs food items that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc and calcium. I don't drink or smoke (and I've firmly stood by that ethic), but for those who do, it is recommended that you avoid indulging in these habits during the menstrual cycle.
Take time out for yourself
Light some aromatherapy candles, listen to good music, watch your favourite show or just gentle massage some of the pain points with a gentle, fragrant massage oil. Take a long walk or read a book. It is important that you take some time out for yourself and indulge in things that you love or like. It can just be spending a few minutes talking calmly with your loved ones. I always ensure that I prioritise myself and my health during the period cycle. Everybody deserves some 'me' time, and you taking time out and switching off for sometime is a must!
I hope some of these personally tried and tested tips help you during the next period cycle. These are small ways in which some part of the discomfort can be eased. Of course, you will always have OTC medicines, balms, stick on pain bandages and heat bags as an aid. But, these little things are important to ensure that your body feels light, fresh and stress-free. Periods should not hold you back from doing what you love! Let it become a part of your routine, and live each day with great positivity.
Do share your tips and recommendations to ease period pain in the comment box below, or join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
Yoga is the road to Happiness - Shilpa Shetty Kundra | Interview
If there is anyone from the Indian film industry who has promoted Yoga like no other, it is Shilpa Shetty Kundra. The actress and entrepreneur, who often takes to social media and discusses the importance of overall wellbeing, has always spoken about the benefits of this ancient exercise and healing form. With a perfectly toned body that inspires several fans everyday, Shilpa has always advocated the art of eating well and balancing it out with a dedicated exercise routine everyday. Her 'Sunday Binge' videos have always been a 'treat' to watch on social media. However, the actress confesses that it is 'Yoga' that helps her maintain this fine balance.
On International Yoga Day, here's Shilpa talking about her workout routine, diet and why she has always focused on the benefits of Yoga.
What is your daily workout routine like?
If I can't do my entire workout regime, I make sure that I concentrate on my breathing for at least 15 minutes a day. I follow my fitness schedule thrice a week. It includes Yoga and weight training. There are also rope workouts, which I really enjoy learning. I am also doing advance yoga right now, so that requires a lot of core strength building. You need to understand that once you are over 35 years of age, you lose a lot of muscle mass and bone density. You need to work on strength and agility. There are different kinds of workouts that help you target different problems and different body parts.
You need to understand that once you are over 35 years of age, you lose a lot of muscle mass and bone density. You need to work on strength and agility
You mentioned that you focus on Yoga and Weight Training. So, do you devote some time for cardio as well?
I just walk take the stairs wherever I can. There is no separate cardio session that I focus on.
Diet plays a crucial role in overall well being. What are some of the rules you have set, when it comes to food? Is there any specific diet that you follow?
I have made a few modifications. I eat a heavy breakfast, heavy lunch and a lighter dinner. You only need energy in the day that is why we need to keep the carbs low at night. I take a high-protein fibre diet. It is important to choose the right carbs. I eat lots of raw vegetables and fruits, that have fibre and minerals.
You feel peaceful after doing yoga and peace equals to happiness. I feel yoga is the road to happiness
What are some food items that you try to avoid?
I try to avoid refined things like white sugar, white bread and fine flour. Not so much rice though. I try and stick to red rice and brown rice. A few times, if I like to have naan with butter or biryani, I do
indulge in it.
Water intake is another important element, that people often forget. How do you ensure your water intake is balanced?
I have at least two litres of water, that is, eight to 10 glasses of water. It may not necessarily be just water. It can be lime water with mint. I always carry a glass bottle that has mint, sauf (fennel seed)
and jeera (black cumin).
You have always stressed on the importance of Yoga. When was the first time you leaned towards this ancient form of exercise?
I was suffering from cervical spondylosis and my physiotherapist advised me to do yoga. That is how I got into this and realised that it not only healed my neck, but had strengthened it as well. The most important thing about any injury is that you need to strengthen it back again from the core. And yoga helps you do that. Yoga is quite brilliant. You feel peaceful after doing yoga and peace equals to happiness. I feel yoga is the road to happiness.
What is that one special element about Yoga, that stands out for you?
Yoga is all about body balance and building core strength. It not only strengthens your body, but also your mind and bones and the alignment of these three aspects of your life make you far more centred, energetic and stronger.
What according to you would be the best time to perform Yoga?
Early morning or evening before sunset is great, as long as you haven’t eaten at least 2-3 hrs before.
Another thing that you have stressed on is 'Savasana'. What makes this simple, yet crucial asana so special?
Savasana relaxes the body and stomach breathing improves circulation, concentration and relaxes the muscles. It is greatly beneficial for mental health as it calms the nerves.
Is 'Yoga' a part of your everyday workout routine? Leave a comment below with your thoughts on Yoga or Join the conversation on
Weekend In Lavasa | Adidas Ultra Boost X Launch
Last weekend, I took off time from work for a quick getaway with Adidas India. We travelled from Mumbai to Lavasa - a private city built near Pune. We were joined by some strong women from various walks of life - running enthusiasts, artists, influencers and Adidas runners - actress Saiyami Kher, Adidas Mumbai Captain Ayesha Billimoria and VJ / Model Anusha Dandekar.
From a 5K run across the hills to a Team relay run around a nature trail, calming Yoga session on a breezy evening to sweating it out with some serious Aerobics (and getting some much needed vitamin D under the sun); we took part in an array of activities; all this, while trying out the newly launched Adidas Ultra Boost X Shoes for Women. Grab a cuppa and enjoy this fun vlog!
Healthy Beginnings | First Impression and Review - Pure Nutrition
Hello! Here's wishing all of you a bright, joyous and super Happy New Year. Hope you all had an amazing NYE and a brilliant weekend. Can't believe we are in the first week of a brand new year already. For us, the first working day was quite something. We revived our YouTube channel (Guess who got verified? Yaaas!) and got back to working round the clock, in order to bring out the best content for all of you. Honestly, your smile and appreciation is all that matters and 2016 wouldn't have been the way it was, had it not been for your love and support.
Now, I am sure quite sure most of you made a list of resolutions (I don't. Never did). While most resolutions differ from one list to another, there is a common goal that almost everyone tries to achieve - perfect fitness and nutrition. Come January 1 and everyone heads out to jog, run or sweat it out at the gym and tries to stay steer clear of all junk food items. But, in most cases, the motivation dies down within a month. Buck up, you guys! You gotta make fitness and good nutrition a part of your lifestyle. While setting fitness goals, make sure you also have your food / water intake and daily nutrition sorted. Last month, during a conversation with Celebrity Fitness and Nutrition Expert Luke Coutinho, I was motivated to bring about healthy changes to my everyday fitness routine and diet, which helped. That's when I was introduced to Coutinho's pet project (as a founder) - Pure Nutrition, an online natural health brand, that aims at improving the overall wellbeing of an individual. We are all for Coutinho's vision for holistic lifestyle changes and thought of giving Pure Nutrition a try. Here's our first impression and review of the website, along with some exclusive details about their popular products.
About the brand - Pure Nutrition markets organic health products, ranging from cold pressed oils, herbal teas to 100% herbal nutritional dietary supplements among others. The brand merges rich knowledge of nutritionists, food engineers and the experience of local doctors, farmers to create a variety of natural food items and supplements. These are rich in natural nutrients and help to improve overall wellbeing and even cure diseases in the long run.
Best known for: Cold pressed oils, herbal teas, super foods, natural dietary supplements
Key Elements of the Brand and Website: 100% Organic and Natural
Offers Free Shipping
COD is available
Products dispatched in 24 hours
The Website and Order Experience: The brand sells all their products on the website, which has a clean layout and easy navigation. The products are divided in four main categories - Dietary Supplements, Cold Pressed Oils, Herbal Teas and Super Foods. At the time of review (and publishing), products in the last two categories were out of stock and will be back soon. There is also a dedicated tab for health tips, which is useful. It also helps suggest products for a specific health issue. In fact, what we liked is that users are recommended that they speak to Pure Nutrition's team of doctors (from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6pm*) for proper advice and to get their queries or doubts solved.
The overall experience of placing an order on the Pure Nutrition website was smooth. I was quite impressed by the interesting range of healthy, natural products available. While browsing through the categories and checking health tips, I made a list and quickly placed an order. The brand offers COD as well as other standard payment options. They dispatch products in 24 hours and live up to the promise of a prompt delivery very well. Next, I am personally waiting to try the herbal teas, as soon as they are restocked.
*Closed on 2nd and 4th Saturdays
Recommended Products:
Pure Nutrition Organic Raw Virgin Olive Oil - for healthy hair
Price: Rs 899
Green Tea Plus (Ultimate Cell Protector - for strong immune system, healthy circulation, skin
Price: Rs 1750
Products we want to try:
Camomile Deep Sleep Tea - perfect after a long day at work
Rooibos Vanilla - stronger immune system, best for insomnia, allergies
Verdict: With the world veering towards a more 'natural' future and even Pantone supporting nature with their colour of 2017, we think it is high time to turn over a new leaf. We recommend Pure Nutrition and you must definitely give some of their popular natural products a try. Our favourite pick? The Organic Raw Virgin Olive Oil.
Have you tried any product/s by Pure Nutrition? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below or join the conversation on Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat | Instagram
Photography: Ranveer Lovely Dua
Location Courtesy: JW Sahar, Andheri (East)
Love,
The Dancebee
Fitness First | Get Fit with Celebrity Nutritionist Luke Coutinho - Exclusive
The marathon season has officially begun, and the season of resolutions for the year ahead is also just around the corner. Several people take up to hard core training and fitness routines around this time, mostly as a resolution for the brand new year (and to add everyday exercise to our daily routine) or simply, to look our best for the most coveted NYE party in town. However, for many others, fitness means serious business and is an important part of their lifestyle. Constant work pressure and stress takes a toll on us, and taking out some time for a walk, run or even Yoga can do wonders to take us away from the monotonous routine. In addition, it also keeps us fit, flexible and energetic.
Interestingly, Celebrity Nutritionist Luke Coutinho also believes the same. Coutinho, who is also an Exercise Physiologist and celebrated author of ‘The Great Indian Diet’ (with actress Shilpa Shetty), believes in lifestyle change and helps coach people to make ‘shifts’ in their respective lifestyles, in order to achieve their health goals. Coutinho is the founder and director of Pure Nutrition, well known for their wide range of organic health products. He is also the head nutritionist, master coach and mastermind behind the popular GOQii lifestyle and health coaching model. Coutinho enjoys a strong clientele across the globe and works towards a simple vision - “To empower people with skills and knowledge to live longer, healthier, and happier lives, through methods of consulting, mentoring, counselling and professional advice,” he says.
Since many of you asked us to share fitness tips for the ongoing season, we got Coutinho to discuss fitness at large in this feature. Right from tips for a marathon or gym beginner to eating right, workout do’s and don’ts and fitness trackers; we’ve got your covered on everything in this exclusive chat with the master coach and nutritionist.
Basic tips that a beginner should keep in mind before hitting the gym
Luke: Make sure you set your goals and duration to achieve them
Start some light walk or exercise before joining any gym, in order to see if you are and can be regular
Optimise location, so you aren’t bored to hit the gym
Make targets on daily basis to achieve the goals
Workout do’s and don’ts for the winter season
Luke: Do’s - Drink plenty of fluids
Protect your hands and feet, as while exercising, blood supply is to the core and in winter, extremities might freeze out. So, please take care. Wear socks and hand gloves
Don’ts - Don’t over exert yourself.
Don’t skip your meals during winters
How much does a fitness tracker benefit an individual, especially to track their progress, whether in the gym or while running / walking?
Luke: Fitness tracker proves to be beneficial in terms of keeping you motivated if you have set goals for yourself
Build up correct goals that you can achieve as per your previous records
Shows realistic picture of your current health and fitness status
Also helps to understand if you had sound sleep as that is also one of the major part towards health and fitness
Five everyday exercises that are a must and perfect for every individual, irrespective of age or gender
Luke: The utmost important exercises to be done daily by any age group are:
Pranayama, Stretching exercises, Walking, Yoga, Side kick
Five important tips for a beginner, who is looking to prepare for a marathon
Luke: If you are interested in taking part at any marathon, it is important to take care of the following things -
Eating meals on time with small gaps
Focusing on a balance in between carbs and proteins with fibre
Hydrating body is most important of all
Keep natural sugars like jaggery, dates, figs etc handy to munch on, especially when you feel low on energy
The best pre-workout food / snack?
Luke: The best pre workout food needs to be a good combination of carbs with protein, as they help you in maintaining good energy levels while working out. For eg: 1 whole wheat bread peanut butter sandwich or / 1 Fruit with handful of nuts or /1 bowl of curd with fruits (yogurt parfait) among others.
Your thoughts on dietary supplements. How do they benefit an individual?
Luke: Dietary supplements are not mandatory for all. They are best suited for people who are malnourished, have deficiency, suffering from digestive problems that hamper nutrient absorption, some medical conditions that need extra nutrition among others. These supplement help nourish them by supplementing those extra micronutrients that are needed to lead a healthy life.
Diet plays a crucial role in staying fit. What is your thought on people who only concentrate on pumping the iron at gyms, but staying away from nutritious food?
Luke: Together, both Diet and physical activity play an important role in staying fit. Diet plays 80% role in maintaining healthy and fit lifestyle. Just pumping out will not give any good results. Instead, it will affect the body more negatively, making it vulnerable to catching infections by weakening the immune system, digestive system and more over, loss of muscles that can lead to other related diseases and may end up giving you a distorted body shape.
An important workout tip that you always swear by
Luke: Daily aiming to do 8,000 – 10,000 steps a day is most important for everyone. It is better than 1 hour of continuous workout.
Love,
The Dancebee
Here’s why we think Sleeping Ugly is cool! | Sofy Bodyfit Overnight
As a little kid, we have all been fed a healthy diet of picture perfect fairytales. The main protagonist would be an epitome of perfection. She would eat, work, dress up and even sleep so perfectly, that it would put most other girls in her kingdom to shame. But as we grew up, we realised that life is not a chapter out of our favourite fairytale. Life is a real struggle and being perfect all the time is close to impossible. No one is born perfect, so why should you live under the pressure of being perfect all the time? Even while sleeping, eh?
It gets crazy during periods. You maybe a stomach sleeper or someone who likes dozing off in the ‘marathon’ position. But, during those five days, everybody gets into the commando mode - Savdhaan! Well, ask yourself - Do you really want to disturb your sleeping pattern and position every month this way? Is it really worth it, in order to be all perfect and avoid staining sheets, to not enjoy a peaceful sleep? Let me break the bubble for you. Sleeping Ugly is cool and totally okay. By choosing the correct night pad, you can stretch, twist, turn and enjoy a good night’s sleep. Sleeping with your regular Day sanitary pad is not a really good idea (there is a reason it is referred to as a Day pad, right?) Night pads come with a wider back, which keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable and enjoy a good sleep. It helps, since no one likes a pad that keeps shifting here, there and everywhere, leading to leaks and a lot of inconvenience (plus, no sleep). We were recently introduced to the all new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight, and were challenged to swap our regular sanitary pad with the new launch, which is known to be one of India’s longest night pads. Challenges excite us, and reviewing new launches is part of our job. But, does the product live up to all that it promises? We got our team member - Neha, to try out the product. She shared her thoughts with us after her last period, and here’s a round up:
What? - Sofy Bodyfit Overnight (Sanitary Pad)
Price: Rs 79 (Pack of 5)
Available in: 350mm / XXL (Packs of 5 and 10) and 420mm / XXXL (Pack of 3)
What does it promise? - The napkin is specially designed for leakage protection at night. It is the longest pad available in India, thanks to the wider hip guard, that covers your panty from back and gives maximum coverage, thus preventing stains/leakage.
Packaging: Inside the main packet, each pad comes in a disposable cover, which makes it super easy to carry while traveling as well.
Our Experience: We tried the XXL pack (350mm) and were quite impressed with the wide hip-guard. It covers the panty well, especially from the back. This helps, especially those who twist and turn a lot during their sleep (our team member who tried the product is one of them) or those who doze off in any of these positions - starfish, sleep-fighter, crash-lander among others. These pads have a mild fragrance, which helps keeps the period odour away. The pad was thin, not too bulky. One thing that gives this product an edge above it’s competitors is the fact that the super adhesive (on both wings and side wings) ensure that the pad fits perfectly. Thanks to the super comfy dry cover, the pad did not cause any irritation or discomfort,. The product, armed with a double absorbent coat, does it’s job well (even on Day 2, when things literally lead to a blood bath), ensuring there is no leakage.
Verdict: The Sofy Bodyfit Overnight pad lives up to all the promises very well, at an affordable price. While major points are subject to an individual’s flow (that’s the case with every pad in the market), we think you should give this one a try, especially if you are bored of trying itchy sanitary pads with a plastic layer.
Have you tried the new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below or Join the conversation on Twitter.
Love,
The Dancebee
Decoding Deepika Padukone's Fitness Regime | Exclusive - Farhan Dhalla
When it comes to the fittest female A-list Bollywood actor (and by fit, we don't mean thin. It clearly means being healthy, strong and agile) Deepika Padukone of those few female actors who leads the pack. With abs and shoulder cuts to die for, folks can't stop obsessing over her hot bod. The actress has been a national level badminton player and swears by regular physical exercises. Actors often change their exercise routine to suit the requirements for a role, especially if it demands a lot of physical exertion. We've all been treated to some stunning stills from Deepika's upcoming (and first) Hollywood films - xXx The Return of Xander Cage, and we can't stop going gaga over her sexy avatar in the film. While the actress began her preparations in Mumbai with trainer Yasmin Karachiwala, she also had to undergo special training during the shoot, for which her team zeroed in on a popular trainer based in Canada.
We recently came across videos of Deepika's workout regime and were quite blown away by her dedication (and that awesome-sauce routine). The man behind Deepika's transformation for her hollywood debut is none other than Farhan Dhalla, one of Canada's best fitness instructors. In the past, he has worked with some of the world's greatest athletes, including Canadian Olympians and other world class athletes, many of whom have won gold medals and are world record holders. In an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee, we got chatting with Farhan to understand Deepika's regime and quizzed him on all things fitness!
How did you come on board to train Deepika Padukone?
Deepika came to me as a referral from her trainer, Yasmin Karichiwala and my cousin Zeena Dhalla from Los Angeles. The two of the them together wrote a book in pilates titled “Sculpt and Shape - The Pilates Way” and are close friends. When Deepika was coming to Toronto, she inquired if either of them knew of any trainers in Toronto. Zeena suggested my name, as I’m not only a trainer, but also a former physiotherapist. Everything fell into place after that. We had our first session with Deepika on April 1 and our last on May 20 in Toronto (for the film). Then, June 21-26 in Madrid (for IIFA).
We recently came across videos of Deepika's workout regime and were quite blown away by her dedication (and that awesome-sauce routine). The man behind Deepika's transformation for her hollywood debut is none other than Farhan Dhalla, one of Canada's best fitness instructors. In the past, he has worked with some of the world's greatest athletes, including Canadian Olympians and other world class athletes, many of whom have won gold medals and are world record holders. In an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee, we got chatting with Farhan to understand Deepika's regime and quizzed him on all things fitness!
How did you come on board to train Deepika Padukone?
Deepika came to me as a referral from her trainer, Yasmin Karichiwala and my cousin Zeena Dhalla from Los Angeles. The two of the them together wrote a book in pilates titled “Sculpt and Shape - The Pilates Way” and are close friends. When Deepika was coming to Toronto, she inquired if either of them knew of any trainers in Toronto. Zeena suggested my name, as I’m not only a trainer, but also a former physiotherapist. Everything fell into place after that. We had our first session with Deepika on April 1 and our last on May 20 in Toronto (for the film). Then, June 21-26 in Madrid (for IIFA).
What was the brief given to you for her look?
The focus wasn’t so much on the look, but the emphasis was really about helping Deepika with the physical demands in the scenes of the film. Deepika would describe to me what was required of her and then, I created a program to best prepare and optimize her performance. The benefits of this training secondarily resulted in her achieved physique. Though there were definitely no complaints about her results!
What kind of changes were brought about in her regular exercise routine, for her look in the film?
Our primary focus was on active stability, endurance and timing. Active stability is where we create a joint that is strong and flexible. It is for joints to function through full range of motion. Endurance was important to allow her to work and function with sufficient energy and minimal fatigue. And timing also refers to how well a body is coordinated to carry out a task efficiently and effectively. Since she is also a dancer, I created exercises that were like choreography. This worked best in helping her connect to what we were doing. It really made me step out of my box and tap into my creative side. It’s also one of the reasons why I love what I do. Every client is different and you have to be able to treat each one as such.
Were there any changes in her diet during this period?
My main concern with most clients is that they don’t eat enough food! But, Deepika's diet was pretty solid. So, we didn’t need to make any changes as such.
What was Deepika's exercise routine like?
A typical workout suggested by me begins with meditation and grounding exercise. We would then move on to mobility warm up exercises, in order to help her prepare for the workout. Deepika's workout in particular blended yoga, a bit of pilates (from physiotherapy principles), conditioning with weights, agility and dynamic exercises based on what she was shooting that day or week. Finally, some mediation to allow the body to assimilate and integrate the workout.
How would you describe your experience of working with Deepika?
What I noticed most about Deepika is that she has a mind set and focus that is very similar if not better then many of the athletes I’ve worked with. Her ability to focus and deliver whatever I asked her to do was quite inspiring and motivational. She is an absolute joy and blessing to work with.
Love,
The Dancebee
