WELLNESS TRAVEL HEALTH FASHION AN ANIMATED LIFE
An IIT-JEE topper reveals that he watched cartoons to beat stress. We get experts to tell us how good a method this is, and if it can be addictive
When a national topper gives study tips, it is bound to be noted down. So when IIT-JEE (Advanced) topper Sarvesh Mehtani said that while on one hand he gave up social media time — to focus better on studies — he did watch his favourite cartoon show, Doraemon, to de-stress.
Experts agree that cartoons indeed are a surefire way to beat the blues. “Cartoons tend to be light in nature and are full of humour with a small lesson or learning. The creatives, visuals, out of the box ideas and beings projected on screen takes one in the world of new possibilities and imaginations. Individual differences do exist, but as per the recent researches, watching cartoons has been a great way to reduce stress and enhance creative thinking,” says Namrata Dagia, clinical psychologist, hypnotherapist and founder, The Illuminating Zone, Kandivili (W).
While in general, experts recommend this form of recreation to almost everyone; it does not work if someone is sceptical. “Relaxation by means of watching cartoons may often work and help in case of receptive individuals who have some liking for childhood fantasies. People who are more serious and temperamental may consider this exercise rubbish,” says Dr PD Lakdawala, psychiatrist, Bhatia Hospital, Tardeo.
For adults it is a great way to unwind, but for kids it is an effective educational tool. “Watching cartoons can build concentration and vocabulary and it is a good and safe form of entertainment, helpful in exploring and observing and it enhances imagination and creativity,” says Dr Fazal Nabi, consultant paediatrician and intensivist, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Pedder Road.
GENRE MATTERS
While most cartoons are funny, some of them have a central theme of mystery, action, etc. and watching them could be detrimental to health. “Watching violence in any form, even if it is in cartoons may result in aggravating the existing stress levels in a person. It can also cultivate aggressive impulses, which are harmful,” says Lakdawala.
“As far as possible violence inducing cartoons should be avoided,” agrees Nabi.
SET THE LIMITS
However, like all things in excess, watching too many cartoon shows also has a downside. “One can very That would be chicken sausages or chicken sandwich and fresh fruit juice. Regardless of whatever else I eat for breakfast, these two-three items are a must-have considering my current fitness routine. I try my best to maintain a balanced proportion of nutrition in my breakfast. I am a big foodie and there are a lot of items that I can’t resist. One of them is pizza. I can have two medium-sized pizzas at one go and have space for more. Also, I can’t resist sweets. I work out at home only when I am really tied up with work. I do some functional exercises at home. Otherwise, I make it a point to hit the gym six days a week — three days of weight training, and three days of much get addicted to cartoons. Cartoons are interesting and people get engrossed in it and forget about time and place too. People should be aware of time and their priorities. If one is aware of their addiction, he or she should set an alarm or should make arrangements for reminders,” says city-based psychologist Mary George Varghese. strength, functional and cardio training. I majorly opt for intense workouts rather than increasing the weights. This helps me avoid injuries. There are a couple actually. One is to drink ample water no matter what the season. This helps the body function better. Secondly, have small meals at regular intervals. This might be difficult to follow but if one can then one should. I start my day with a heavy breakfast followed by munching on dry fruits or fresh fruits. I have a decent lunch including salads. I make sure the protein content in my diet is sufficient. Also, in my diet plan, I make it a point to follow one rule — my calorie intake has to be lesser than my calorie output. Apart from this, I have an early dinner. If in case I am awake till late night, I might have some salad or soup.