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Healthwatch
Stepping Up Activity If Winter Slowed You Down
~4.7 mins read
Better health, better mood, better balance, and a multitude of other benefits await.
A close up of man's hand pointing a TV remote and sock-clad feet and legs in denim jeans up on a couch with TV in background showing beautiful blue skies, trees, and puffy clouds outside
If you've been cocooning due to winter's cold, who can blame you? But a lack of activity isn't good for body or mind during any season. And whether you're deep in the grip of winter or fortunate to be basking in signs of spring, today is a good day to start exercising. If you're not sure where to start — or why you should — we've shared tips and answers below.

Moving more: What's in it for all of us?

We're all supposed to strengthen our muscles at least twice a week and get a total at least 150 minutes of weekly aerobic activity (the kind that gets your heart and lungs working). But fewer than 18% of U.S. adults meet those weekly recommendations, according to the CDC.
How can choosing to become more active help? A brighter mood is one benefit: physical activity helps ease depression and anxiety, for example. And being sufficiently active — whether in short or longer chunks of time — also lowers your risk for health problems like
  • heart disease
  • stroke
  • diabetes
  • cancer
  • brain shrinkage
  • muscle loss
  • weight gain
  • poor posture
  • poor balance
  • back pain
  • and even premature death.
  • What are your exercise obstacles?

    Even when we understand these benefits, a range of obstacles may keep us on the couch.
    Don't like the cold? Have trouble standing, walking, or moving around easily? Just don't like exercise? Don't let obstacles like these stop you anymore. Try some workarounds.
  • If it's cold outside: It's generally safe to exercise when the mercury is above 32° F and the ground is dry. The right gear for cold doesn't need to be fancy. A warm jacket, a hat, gloves, heavy socks, and nonslip shoes are a great start. Layers of athletic clothing that wick away moisture while keeping you warm can help, too. Consider going for a brisk walk or hike, taking part in an orienteering event, or working out with battle ropes ($25 and up) that you attach to a tree.
  • If you have mobility issues: Most workouts can be modified. For example, it might be easier to do an aerobics or weights workout in a pool, where buoyancy makes it easier to move and there's little fear of falling. Or try a seated workout at home, such as chair yoga, tai chi, Pilates, or strength training. You'll find an endless array of free seated workout videos on YouTube, but look for those created by a reliable source such as Silver Sneakers, or a physical therapist, certified personal trainer, or certified exercise instructor. Another option is an adaptive sports program in your community, such as adaptive basketball.
  • If you can't stand formal exercise: Skip a structured workout and just be more active throughout the day. Do some vigorous housework (like scrubbing a bathtub or vacuuming) or yard work, climb stairs, jog to the mailbox, jog from the parking lot to the grocery store, or do any activity that gets your heart and lungs working. Track your activity minutes with a smartphone (most devices come with built-in fitness apps) or wearable fitness tracker ($20 and up).
  • If you're stuck indoors: The pandemic showed us there are lots of indoor exercise options. If you're looking for free options, do a body-weight workout, with exercises like planks and squats; follow a free exercise video online; practice yoga or tai chi; turn on music and dance; stretch; or do a resistance band workout. Or if it's in the budget, get a treadmill, take an online exercise class, or work online with a personal trainer. The American Council on Exercise has a tool on its website to locate certified trainers in your area.
  • Is it hard to find time to exercise?

    The good news is that any amount of physical activity is great for health. For example, a 2022 study found that racking up 15 to 20 minutes of weekly vigorous exercise (less than three minutes per day) was tied to lower risks of heart disease, cancer, and early death.
    "We don't quite understand how it works, but we do know the body's metabolic machinery that imparts health benefits can be turned on by short bouts of movement spread across days or weeks," says Dr. Aaron Baggish, founder of Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital's Cardiovascular Performance Program and an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.
    And the more you exercise, Dr. Baggish says, the more benefits you accrue, such as better mood, better balance, and reduced risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cognitive decline.

    What's the next step to take?

    For most people, increasing activity is doable. If you have a heart condition, poor balance, muscle weakness, or you're easily winded, talk to your doctor or get an evaluation from a physical therapist.
    And no matter which activity you select, ease into it. When you've been inactive for a while, your muscles are vulnerable to injury if you do too much too soon.
    "Your muscles may be sore initially if they are being asked to do more," says Dr. Sarah Eby, a sports medicine specialist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. "That's normal. Just be sure to start low, and slowly increase your duration and intensity over time. Pick activities you enjoy and set small, measurable, and attainable goals, even if it's as simple as walking five minutes every day this week."
    Remember: the aim is simply exercising more than you have been. And the more you move, the better.

    profile/5170OIG3.jpeg.webp
    Healthwatch
    Stepping Up Activity If Winter Slowed You Down
    ~4.7 mins read
    Better health, better mood, better balance, and a multitude of other benefits await.
    A close up of man's hand pointing a TV remote and sock-clad feet and legs in denim jeans up on a couch with TV in background showing beautiful blue skies, trees, and puffy clouds outside
    If you've been cocooning due to winter's cold, who can blame you? But a lack of activity isn't good for body or mind during any season. And whether you're deep in the grip of winter or fortunate to be basking in signs of spring, today is a good day to start exercising. If you're not sure where to start — or why you should — we've shared tips and answers below.

    Moving more: What's in it for all of us?

    We're all supposed to strengthen our muscles at least twice a week and get a total at least 150 minutes of weekly aerobic activity (the kind that gets your heart and lungs working). But fewer than 18% of U.S. adults meet those weekly recommendations, according to the CDC.
    How can choosing to become more active help? A brighter mood is one benefit: physical activity helps ease depression and anxiety, for example. And being sufficiently active — whether in short or longer chunks of time — also lowers your risk for health problems like
  • heart disease
  • stroke
  • diabetes
  • cancer
  • brain shrinkage
  • muscle loss
  • weight gain
  • poor posture
  • poor balance
  • back pain
  • and even premature death.
  • What are your exercise obstacles?

    Even when we understand these benefits, a range of obstacles may keep us on the couch.
    Don't like the cold? Have trouble standing, walking, or moving around easily? Just don't like exercise? Don't let obstacles like these stop you anymore. Try some workarounds.
  • If it's cold outside: It's generally safe to exercise when the mercury is above 32° F and the ground is dry. The right gear for cold doesn't need to be fancy. A warm jacket, a hat, gloves, heavy socks, and nonslip shoes are a great start. Layers of athletic clothing that wick away moisture while keeping you warm can help, too. Consider going for a brisk walk or hike, taking part in an orienteering event, or working out with battle ropes ($25 and up) that you attach to a tree.
  • If you have mobility issues: Most workouts can be modified. For example, it might be easier to do an aerobics or weights workout in a pool, where buoyancy makes it easier to move and there's little fear of falling. Or try a seated workout at home, such as chair yoga, tai chi, Pilates, or strength training. You'll find an endless array of free seated workout videos on YouTube, but look for those created by a reliable source such as Silver Sneakers, or a physical therapist, certified personal trainer, or certified exercise instructor. Another option is an adaptive sports program in your community, such as adaptive basketball.
  • If you can't stand formal exercise: Skip a structured workout and just be more active throughout the day. Do some vigorous housework (like scrubbing a bathtub or vacuuming) or yard work, climb stairs, jog to the mailbox, jog from the parking lot to the grocery store, or do any activity that gets your heart and lungs working. Track your activity minutes with a smartphone (most devices come with built-in fitness apps) or wearable fitness tracker ($20 and up).
  • If you're stuck indoors: The pandemic showed us there are lots of indoor exercise options. If you're looking for free options, do a body-weight workout, with exercises like planks and squats; follow a free exercise video online; practice yoga or tai chi; turn on music and dance; stretch; or do a resistance band workout. Or if it's in the budget, get a treadmill, take an online exercise class, or work online with a personal trainer. The American Council on Exercise has a tool on its website to locate certified trainers in your area.
  • Is it hard to find time to exercise?

    The good news is that any amount of physical activity is great for health. For example, a 2022 study found that racking up 15 to 20 minutes of weekly vigorous exercise (less than three minutes per day) was tied to lower risks of heart disease, cancer, and early death.
    "We don't quite understand how it works, but we do know the body's metabolic machinery that imparts health benefits can be turned on by short bouts of movement spread across days or weeks," says Dr. Aaron Baggish, founder of Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital's Cardiovascular Performance Program and an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.
    And the more you exercise, Dr. Baggish says, the more benefits you accrue, such as better mood, better balance, and reduced risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cognitive decline.

    What's the next step to take?

    For most people, increasing activity is doable. If you have a heart condition, poor balance, muscle weakness, or you're easily winded, talk to your doctor or get an evaluation from a physical therapist.
    And no matter which activity you select, ease into it. When you've been inactive for a while, your muscles are vulnerable to injury if you do too much too soon.
    "Your muscles may be sore initially if they are being asked to do more," says Dr. Sarah Eby, a sports medicine specialist at Harvard-affiliated Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. "That's normal. Just be sure to start low, and slowly increase your duration and intensity over time. Pick activities you enjoy and set small, measurable, and attainable goals, even if it's as simple as walking five minutes every day this week."
    Remember: the aim is simply exercising more than you have been. And the more you move, the better.

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    P7as2
    Shahid Kapoor And Disha Patani To Set The Screen Ablaze With Two Peppy Dance Numbers In Vishal Bhardwajs Arjun Ustara
    ~3.3 mins read
    Bollywood fans have a major reason to rejoice! Shahid Kapoor is all set to bring his signature swag and dance magic back to the big screen this time with none other than Disha Patani, in Vishal Bhardwaj’s much-anticipated commercial entertainer Arjun Ustara. Slated for a grand theatrical release on December 5, 2025, the film also stars Triptii Dimri in a pivotal role and promises to be a complete cinematic package filled with action, drama, music, and visual spectacle. In a fresh casting twist that has already created buzz across social media, Shahid and Disha will be sharing screen space for the very first time, and not just in passing—the duo will groove together in two high-energy dance numbers that are expected to be the musical highlights of the film. A source close to the production revealed, “Shahid and Disha are pairing up for two back-to-back songs, both of which are ‘massy dance dhamakas.’ The energy they’re bringing to the sets is just electric. It’s a visual treat in the making.” This is a surprising cameo for Disha Patani, who has been roped in to deliver a stylish, performance-driven appearance that enhances the glamour quotient of the film. While the length of her role might be limited to the songs, her presence is expected to make a big impact thanks to her effortless screen presence and dance skills. The scale of the production is massive. Huge, elaborate sets have already been constructed specifically for these songs. The filmmakers are pulling out all the stops to ensure these tracks are not just foot-tapping but also visually stunning. “The shoot for the songs is about to begin,” the source added. “The choreography, styling, and production design are all in sync with the kind of numbers Shahid’s fans love—energetic, stylish, and full of charisma. The appeal of both songs is very different, but each carries Shahid’s trademark vibe that resonates with the masses.” From Bollywood beats to urban moves, Shahid has consistently raised the bar with his dance numbers over the years. Be it “Mauja Hi Mauja,” “Dhating Naach,” or “Bekhayali,” his genre seamlessly combines emotion and performance. Include Disha’s athletic elegance and expressive panache in the mix, and these two songs are ready to become instant chartbusters. One more reason behind the buzz surrounding Arjun Ustara is the return of Shahid Kapoor with mastermind director Vishal Bhardwaj. The two have teamed up earlier on award-winning ventures such as Kaminey and Haider, where both featured Shahid’s prowess to explore deeply complicated characters. Of course, expectations are high yet again. In Arjun Ustara, Shahid plays the title character, a role that insiders describe as nuanced, dark, and charged emotionally. The plot, aside from being adapted from the classic film Parasaram, hasn’t been forthcoming just yet, but the tone of the movie is likely to be a mix of Vishal Bhardwaj’s trademark storytelling with more popcorn, mass-appeal-oriented content, including high-octane action and larger-than-life dance numbers. Triptii Dimri, star of her own breakout performances in Bulbbul and Qala, is being cast as a major lead opposite Shahid. Her addition brings a new dimension to the cast, and her sensitive acting will be called upon to temper the film’s frenetic energy with emotional resonance. The thrill for the dance sequences lies not only in Shahid’s dancing but also in the way this fresh combination with Disha introduces something entirely new on screen. Their combined screen presence, complemented by high-end styling, cutting-edge choreography, and a cinematic canvas, has the potential to become viral content the moment it drops. “These songs are built for virality,” a crew member hinted. “Think large-scale visuals, catchy beats, and Instagram-worthy moves. They’re being designed to blow up online just as much as they will light up the big screen.” With Shahid’s precision and Disha’s charm, the two songs promise not just entertainment but an experience—the kind of cinematic moment that gets replayed long after the movie ends. As the team prepares to shoot the songs soon, excitement is building steadily. Fans of Shahid Kapoor are eagerly waiting to see what the actor delivers next, especially since his last outing, Deva, earlier this year received a warm response. Now, with Arjun Ustara, he’s gearing up for yet another transformation, this time combining commercial appeal with artistic storytelling. Disha Patani’s special appearance adds a touch of glamour and freshness, and the pairing with Triptii Dimri ensures a balanced, performance-driven cast. With a December 2025 release locked in, and with grand visuals, powerful music, and one of Bollywood’s most dynamic actors in the lead, Arjun Ustara is shaping up to be a must-watch film of the year. Stay tuned because Shahid Kapoor is not just coming back; he’s coming back dancing.
    Read this and Other similar stories at MissMalini.com
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    Healthwatch
    Think Your Child Has ADHD? What Your Pediatrician Can Do
    ~3.7 mins read
    Problems with attention and focus, impulsivity, and constant motion are possible symptoms of ADHD.
    A green blackboard with the letters A D H D in chalk, with hand-drawn, squiggly arrows in multiple colors of chalk pointing outward in all directions from the letters.
    ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood. It affects approximately 7% to 8% of all children and youth in the US. As the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) points out in their clinical practice guideline for ADHD, that's more than the mental health system can handle, which means that pediatricians need to step up and help out.
    So, if your child is having problems with attention, focus, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or some combination of those, and is at least 4 years old, your first step should be an appointment with your child's primary care doctor.

    What steps will your pediatrician take?

    According to the AAP, here's what your doctor should do:
    Take a history. Your doctor should ask you lots of questions about what is going on. Be ready to give details and examples.
    Ask you to fill out a questionnaire about your child. Your doctor should also give you a questionnaire to give to your child's teacher or guidance counselor.
    A diagnosis of ADHD is made only if a child has symptoms that are
  • present in more than one setting: For most children, that would be both home and school. If symptoms are only present in one setting, it's less likely to be ADHD and more likely to be related to that setting. For example, a child who only has problems at school may have a learning disability.
  • causing a problem in both of those settings: If a child is active and/or easily distracted, but is getting good grades, isn't causing problems in class, and has good relationships in school and at home, there is not a problem. It bears watching, but it could be just personality or temperament.
  • There are ADHD rating scales that have been studied and shown to be reliable, such as the Vanderbilt and the Conners assessments. These scales can be very helpful, not just in making diagnoses, but also in following the progress of a child over time.
    Screen your child for other problems. There are problems that can mimic ADHD, such as learning disabilities, depression, or even hearing problems. Additionally, children who have ADHD can also have learning disabilities, depression, or substance use. It's important to ask enough questions and get enough information to be sure.

    Discussing treatment options for ADHD

    If a diagnosis of ADHD is made, your pediatrician should discuss treatment options with you.
  • For 4- and 5-year-olds: The best place to begin is really with parent training on managing behavior, and getting support in the classroom. Medications should only be considered in this age group if those interventions don't help, and the child's symptoms are causing significant problems.
  • For 6- to 12-year-olds: Along with parent training and behavioral support, medications can be very helpful. Primary care providers can prescribe one of the FDA-approved medications for ADHD (stimulants, atomoxetine, guanfacine, or clonidine). In this age group, formal classroom support in the form of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan should be in place.
  • For 12- to 18-year-olds: The same school programs and behavioral health support should be in place. Medications can be helpful, but teens should be part of that decision process; shared decision-making is an important part of caring for teens, and for getting them ready to take on their own care when they become adults.
  • Follow-up care for a child with ADHD

    Your pediatrician also should follow up with you and your child. Early on, there should be frequent visits while you figure out the diagnosis, as well as any other possible problems. And if medication is prescribed, frequent visits are needed initially as you figure out the best medication and dose and monitor for side effects.
    After that, the frequency of the visits will depend on how things are going, but appointments should be regular and scheduled, not just made to respond to a problem. ADHD can be a lifelong problem, bringing different challenges at different times, and it's important that you, your child, and your doctor meet regularly so that you can best meet those challenges.
    Because together, you can.
    Watch a video of Dr. Erica Lee discussing behavioral therapies to help children with ADHD.


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