Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Guilty Pleasures? Not anymore.

Guilty pleasures are said to be things that you like to do but it leaves you with a guilty feeling. Below are a list of general guilty pleasures in no particular order.

So lets start:

1) Chocolate: It contains antioxidants that may help to protect the body from cardiovascular disease.

2) Shopping: Research shows that levels of dopamine (neutrotransmitter) will increase when shopping. This will boost the immune system and keep your body agile. Happy Shopping, folks!.

3) Day Off: If you are the first to arrive at work and last to leave and never take a day off, chances are - you wont live long! If you have taken days off work, simply for no reason or just to stay back in bed, good for you. It seems taking days off just to relax and unwind helps to decrease work stress, helps with productivity and provides healthy live balance.

4) Sleep: It helps your brain to reorganize and restructure, strenghtens emotional components, reduces daytime fatigue and increases stamina, reduces level of stress and helps to control level of blood pressure.

5) Sex : Relieves stress, boost immunity & reduces calories. Need I say more ? *wink, wink*


6) Wine: Red wine contains antioxidants and is good for your heart. It reduces chances of blood clotting in the arteries.

7) Coffee: Lately researchers have discovered that, coffee drinkers compared to non drinkers are:
    a - less likely to have Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinson's Disease and Dimentia
    b- have fewer cases of stroke, heart rhythm problems and cancer

Now, I can enjoy my cuppa, guilt free :)

8) Long showers / hot baths:
   a - Hot water kills bacteria more than cold water does
   b-  Warm water loosens up stiff joints. Hot water helps with blood circulation, reduces swelling and eases body pain.
   c - Long hot baths are good for the brain. It helps to relax the mind after a tough day at work.
 
It may seem like luxury, but it is actually good for the body, mind and soul.

9) Bubblegummers
While it is irritating to watch people chew gum when they are talking to you, many dentists have advised that it is good to chew gum. It seems Chewing Gums contain xylitol which reduces bacteria and prevents cavities.

10) Facebook
Some people find it a waste of time, but with our busy schedules these days, taking some time to log on to facebook keeps us connected with so many of our friends & relatives. It keeps our relationships healthy and we are always updated on our close ones in between our busy schedules. Well, not sure what the researches have to say about this.... hahaha.