GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
August brings with it the auspicious occasion of Rakshabandhan that celebrates the sibling bond, unwavering support, and the promise of protection. Every year, Indians celebrate this special festival with gifts, sweets, and the unspoken promise of lifelong protection symbolized by the tradition of tying a rakhi on every brother’s wrist.
One of the biggest highlights of Rakshabandhan is the exchanging of gifts and good wishes. While this year the festivities might be somewhat impacted, that doesn’t mean the spirit of enthusiasm is any less. Additionally, there is the opportunity to safeguard every brother/sister’s health by sharing gifts that will add to his/her wellness during this difficult time. Instead of opting for conventional presents, share a supply of nuts like Almonds which are known to be the gift of good health, and also known to provide a variety of benefits across heart health, diabetes, and weight management. In addition, almonds contain several nutrients that support immunity.
Leading Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan said, “I always prefer to share gifts that are thoughtful as they make the celebrations all the more special. For Rakshabandhan this year, almonds will be a part of all the gifts that I will be sharing with my siblings and loved ones. Almonds are a source of several nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, protein, riboflavin, zinc, etc. that make them a nutritious and tasty gift which in the long run, will also add to their health.”
Rakshabandhan is a great time to celebrate with family and friends, but for many, this can also translate into a lot of binge eating, snacking, and high intake of sweets that can lead to bigger health problems over time. With festivities all around, Almonds make for a great substitute and a healthy gifting option that can add more value to our siblings’ lives.
According to Madhuri Ruia, Pilates Expert and Diet & Nutrition Consultant, “In this difficult time, taking care of our family and relatives’ health has become of utmost importance. As most of us prepare to celebrate Rakshabandhan virtually while maintaining social distancing, the sharing of gifts is an old tradition that many of us will still follow. I strongly suggest sharing almonds as gifts, since they have a long shelf life and can be stored for long durations. Besides that, since they are packed with a host of nutrients, they will not just contribute to building your brother or sister’s health but to the health of his/her family members. Added to that, almonds are a source of zinc, which plays an important role in growth, development, and the maintenance of immune function, making them all the more important especially during this time.”
