United News of Bangladesh

Simple practices such as mindfulness, gratitude journaling and optimism training may help improve heart health within a few weeks, according to a new review of clinical studies. The research found that positive psychology and mindfulness-based programmes were linked to improvements in blood pressure, inflammation and other risk factors for heart disease. The review, led by Rosalba “Rose” Hernandez, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, examined 18 randomized controlled trials involving people with existing cardiovascular risks, including high blood pressure, heart failure and other health conditions. Most programmes lasted between six and 12 weeks and included weekly sessions along with activities participants practised at home. The interventions were delivered through phone calls, apps, text messages, journaling, group sessions and a combination of in-person and online support. Hernandez said mindfulness-based programmes lasting eight weeks showed improvements in systolic blood pressure and inflammatory markers among people with hypertension and those recovering from acute coronary syndrome. One 12-week digital programme based on spirituality produced one of the largest reductions in blood pressure, lowering systolic blood pressure by 7.6 points, according to the study. The researchers found that programmes involving frequent contact and regular practice were more consistently linked to improvements in heart health. “The therapeutic dose that was most consistently linked with improvements in blood pressure, inflammation and endothelial function was daily practice reinforced by weekly sessions over eight to 12-week periods,” Hernandez said. Some programmes also encouraged participants to adopt healthier lifestyles. An eight-week WhatsApp-based programme, which combined weekly sessions with daily tasks, encouraged people to exercise more, improve their diets and take medicines as prescribed. Another programme using motivational interviewing increased physical activity among heart patients by around 1,800 steps a day and also improved medication adherence. The researchers said mindfulness and positive psychology interventions could become useful additions to long-term heart disease prevention and treatment. However, continued, less intensive support may be needed to help people maintain healthier habits over time. The study, published in the journal Cardiology Clinics, adds to growing evidence suggesting that psychological well-being may play an important role in cardiovascular health. Researchers said optimism, gratitude and other positive emotional experiences have increasingly been linked to better heart health. An earlier study led by Hernandez also found that people with higher levels of optimism tended to have healthier hearts. The findings suggest that caring for mental and behavioural health could play an important role alongside conventional medical treatment in preventing heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular health. Source: Science Daily

This weekend, Dhaka Flow, an innovative wellness platform, in collaboration with Baridhara Society, is thrilled to launch a pioneering festival dedicated to yoga and wellness, commemorating Women’s Day. Scheduled for March 8-9 at the Baridhara Society Lakeside Park in Dhaka, the festival is being supported by Brac Bank Tara, Suzuki Motorbikes, BTI, Turaag Active, and Ispahani Blenders Choice Premium Tea. Offering a complimentary, engaging exploration into the realms of movement, mindfulness, and health, the event aims to unite experts, enthusiasts, and the broader community for a weekend filled with educational, inspirational, and actionable wellness experiences. Aligned with this year’s Women’s Day theme, “Inspire Her Wellness,” Dhaka Flow’s festival embodies its commitment to universal wellness. Recognising the unique challenges women face in juggling caregiving and work duties, often at the expense of their own health, the festival intends to shed light on these often-overlooked issues. Providing a nurturing environment for women and their families, the festival invites exploration of holistic health in Dhaka’s context, as detailed in a media release. Nasrin Jahan Onika's maiden solo exhibition ‘Home’ begins at AFD Participants can anticipate an enriching engagement with wellness professionals, hands-on classes and workshops designed to enhance physical, mental, and emotional resilience, interactive Q&A sessions, nutritious dining options, and networking opportunities with peers. This in-person event pledges to empower the community to elevate their overall wellbeing and maintain fitness. Kicking off on Friday at 10 am with an opening ceremony by Dhaka Flow co-founder and esteemed yogini, Shazia Omar, the festival will commence with a sound healing session. Saturday’s activities includes a wide range of workshops and classes, originating and concluding at Baridhara Society Lake Park. Remaining true to its eco-friendly ethos, the festival includes a symbolic tree planting ceremony by Dhaka Flow and Shakti Foundation, contributing to the greening of Baridhara Park. The festival’s art zone promises creative workshops and activities suitable for all ages, alongside engaging outdoor pursuits for children and educational sessions on essential health principles. Emphasizing the importance of financial independence, time management, health awareness, and the freedoms of belief, speech, and expression, the festival aims to inspire and educate.Additionally, the festival will offer a Sufi whirling class and a journaling session. A meditation garden will host all-day mindfulness practices and support groups addressing chronic pain, cancer, depression, grief, addiction, and the challenges of raising children on the spectrum, in hopes of fostering a sense of community strength and solidarity. ‘Amar Dekha Noya Chin’: Bangabandhu’s formative journey in a travelogue-style graphic novel Highlighting female coaches and entrepreneurs in the wellness sector, the event will also feature a farmer’s market showcasing fresh produce and organic goods from local women farmers in collaboration with FAO and ZXY International FZCO. The festival emphasizes an eco-conscious approach, avoiding plastic waste, offering vegetarian food options, and providing free activities for all attendees. Generous sponsorship from leading private sector companies underscores the festival’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles within the community. Dhaka Flow remains dedicated to positively impacting individuals and the environment, offering resources, events, and a supportive network to encourage optimal living and environmental stewardship. For further details and registration, visit www.dhakaflow.com and follow Dhaka Flow on social media (@dhakaflowofficial). UNB is the media partner of the event.  Read more: Which Type of Yoga Should You Try?