Changing Dynamics: The landscape of Indian women’s lifestyles has morphed in recent years due to modernization. These shifts bring forth a dual impact on their well-being. Pertinent statistics underline that roughly 30% of Indian women are grappling with overweight or obesity, with a higher prevalence in urban pockets. Sedentary routines and unhealthy eating habits are the driving forces behind this concern. Simultaneously, the surge in non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular ailments among Indian women is cause for alarm.
Modernization's Footprint on Indian Women's Health
Seismic Shift: The advent of modernization has left an indelible mark on the health of Indian women. Statistical data unfurls a concerning tableau of lifestyle-related issues within this demographic. As traditional practices make way for Western influences, sedentary living and poor dietary choices have gained ground. The consequence? Skyrocketing obesity rates and a surge in chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Women are suffering from the dual burden of malnutrition, the increased consumption of processed and sugary foods, unhealthy lifestyles led to increase in overweight, diabetes, hypertensions and on the other hand half of them are also anaemic.
According to NIA Government, Rural women recorded the lowest health status among all women of the three geographic areas: Rural women recorded the least good health status (75.5%) compared to 77.0% of urban women and 81.8% of semi-urban women.
Roadmap to Reclaiming Health: Yoga, Diet and Stress Management
Holistic Healing: To reclaim their health, Indian women can take solace in the triumvirate of yoga, balanced diets and stress management techniques. Yoga stands as a beacon, illuminating the path with its myriad advantages. It bolsters flexibility, cultivates mental well-being and alleviates stress.
More than 50% of married women between the age group of 15 and 49 years suffer from anaemia caused by iron deficiency. It has contributed to 19 % of maternal deaths Abortions are a major manse of maternal morbidity and mortality in India.
Balancing the scales is a well-rounded diet, replete with fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and a measured intake of processed foods.
As per Mental Health Index U.S. Worker Edition 2021, 83% of women experienced a significant increase in depression as compared to 36% of men. As men, women are twice as likely to experience depression.
Stress management is the final frontier, where techniques like meditation and relaxation step in to ease mental burdens.
Between the ages of 15 and 44 years sexual and reproductive health problems are responsible for one- third of health issues for women. Among women and girls unsafe sex is a major risk factor.
Navigating the Health Terrain for Indian Women
Health Realities: Indian women grapple with a spectrum of health concerns propelled by various lifestyle factors. Among these, obesity takes centre stage, with more than 20% of Indian women wrestling with excess weight. This sets the stage for a cascade of related issues – diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular troubles.
Reproductive health issues are also in the spotlight, with menstrual disorders and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) casting shadows. Mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety, emerge due to societal pressures and evolving roles.
According to a national health survey, 13% of women over the age of 18 are in poor health it could be even lower if all women met the recommended guidelines for diet and exercise.(Refer national health survey to know more about the guidelines).
Holistic Healing in the Face of Modernization
In the Shadows of Change: As modernization scripts a new narrative, Indian women’s health stands at a crossroads. Progress has ushered in medical advancements and heightened awareness, yet it’s also ushered in sedentary routines, unwholesome diets and mounting stress. To reclaim equilibrium, the path points toward embracing yoga asanas, fostering a diet teeming with fruits and vegetables and navigating stress through meditation.
Rewriting the Script: A Journey to a Healthier Lifestyle
Modernization’s Impact: The evolving lifestyle of Indian women resonates with the tides of modernization, leaving its mark on their health spectrum. Stark statistics paint a picture of widespread health concerns, a product of sedentary patterns, unbalanced diets and mounting stress.
The remedy? A trifecta of yoga, a balanced diet and stress management techniques.
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Yoga’s healing prowess extends beyond the physical, nurturing mental well-being and staving off anxiety and depression. A diet anchored in wholesome fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and beneficial fats proves instrumental in thwarting chronic ailments. Last but not least, the art of stress management, be it through meditation or deep breathing, serves as a refuge, tempering stress levels and promoting inner harmony.
Quality and affordable health services under health coverage needs to address issues related to reproductive health, maternal deaths, malnutrition and non communicable diseases to improve women’s health. Some steps should be taken to improve the health of women like raising your voice because voice amplifies, directs and changes the conversation, support one another by sharing the workload, educate the next generation and know your rights. This will certainly help for a better lifestyle. Don’t quit!
