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A 'Zomato' Service for Hospitals from ICICI Lombard

by Almog Ramrajkar | Oct 26, 2023

This is the reason that every woman is excessively careful while pregnant. For a healthy delivery, it is suggested to offer her with complete medical care. A lady with calm mind and fit soul is perfect to deliver a healthy baby, whereas, women suffering from any sort of physical or mental health may get in trouble along with the baby in their womb yet to be born. Here comes the importance of dedicated maternity medical care. This completely ensures better health of mother and new born prior, during and post delivery period. There are maternity care specialists in medical sector, who are meant to offer quality health care to pregnant women.

Though, with development in medical technology, there have been introduced so many of modified maternity health programs. The machines and special medical facilities are made available to make the delivery less painful and safer. At the same time, the cost of such hospitals has increased with immense pace.

The use of high quality machines during delivery, high cost of maternity care in private hospitals, high consultation fee and big amount of money charged for nursing facilities are becoming major reasons behind increased tension level of people. Paying off such expenses is a big challenge and need of such facilities have become mandatory for the confirmation of safety of mother and newborn’s life.

Thankfully, there are various dedicated maternity health insurance policies, which are dedicated to cover the financial expenses covered during the entire period of pregnancy care. The policies are different and protection offered under them varies as per the premium prices. While talking about major cover offered under such maternity protection plans, it includes expenses of pre delivery medical check-up and doctor consultation expenses, expenses occurred during the time of delivery, nursing and medical care expenses throughout the time and post pregnancy care costs etc. If you don’t have a maternity cover, paying of these expenses can be really unbelievable and unbearable. This has increased the significance of medical insurance plans specially designed for health and wellness of mother and child both.

Another very important aspect of health insurance plan dedicated to maternity services is that it enables you to get the complete treatment done from private hospitals, where enriched and updated medical facilities are offered to the patients. In such case, the medical cover plan offers you reimbursement of hospital bill, doctor consultation fee, room charges, intensive care for baby and mother and other expenses related to maternity care.

Hence, being lucky mother-to-be if you are looking to offer best health care facilities to get quality care and maximum financial protection is very significant. This enriches your experience of being a mother and ensures you complete safety. This is the reason behind increased value of maternity health cover plans, which are being offered by top notch insurance sector players of current marketplace.

Which Exercises Are Best For Increasing Height?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Want to increase your height? In a world where stature often stands as a symbol of confidence and presence, the desire to add a few extra inches to one’s height is a goal shared by many. Height growth typically stops at the age of around 18 to 20 years old for boys and 16 to 18 years old for girls. Although genetics play a vital role in a person’s height, certain exercises can help. You can engage in a well-rounded routine including specific exercises that enhance posture, spinal health, and overall body flexibility. Let’s explore ten of the best exercises for increasing height that can play a part in increasing height naturally and effectively.

10 Simple Exercises for Increasing Height

Here is a list of 10 exercises that are proven to have a positive impact on height and overall health.

Hanging exercises
Pelvic tilt
Cobra stretch
Cat-cow stretch
Pilates
Forward Bend
Leg Kicks
Jumping or Skipping
Side Stretches
Swimming

Hanging exercises

The hanging exercise is a simple and effective exercise for increasing height. It allows the spine to experience a gentle decompression, creating a sensation of elongation. This can promote better posture and spinal alignment, and it may slightly increase height over time. While this exercise can’t fundamentally extend your skeletal structure, it may contribute to creating a more relaxed and elongated posture, lending an impression of added height.

To do hanging exercises, use a sturdy horizontal or pull-up bar. Use your hands to hang from the bar, keeping your arms completely outstretched, and your body relaxed. Allow your spine to decompress and elongate.

Pelvic tilt

The pelvic tilt exercise engages and strengthens the muscles that support your spine. Maintaining a strong core and balanced pelvis creates a foundation for improved posture, which can contribute to a taller appearance.

For a pelvic tilt, begin with your knees bent, and lie on your back. To flatten your lower back against the floor, contract your abdominal muscles. Then, arch your back slightly, allowing your pelvis to tilt forward. Repeat this motion.

Cobra stretch

Cobra stretch stands as one of the best exercises for height enhancement, which you can easily do at home. This graceful stretch not only promotes flexibility but also encourages an elongated posture. By embracing the cobra stretch, you invite the spine to explore a full range of motion, contributing to improved alignment and the potential for a taller-seeming stance.

To do a cobra stretch, lie on your stomach, place your palms near your shoulders, and gently lift your upper body off the ground, arching your back. Your pelvis and hips should touch the ground.

Cat-cow stretch

This dynamic movement encourages spinal mobility, loosening the muscles along the back while enhancing flexibility. The cat-cow stretch can positively influence posture by cultivating a supple and adaptable spine, creating the illusion of heightened stature.

Start on your hands and knees. Arch your back upwards like a cat, then lower it while lifting your head like a cow. Move between these two positions, gently flexing and extending your spine. When you flow through these motions, your spine experiences a rhythmic undulation, encouraging proper alignment.

Pilates

Pilates has proven to be one of the best exercises for increasing height by strengthening the core muscles and improving flexibility. A strong core provides stability, and increased flexibility can support proper posture, both contributing to an enhanced height.

You can do various pilates exercises at home that emphasise core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Moves like the swan dive, planks and leg circles can aid in stretching and elongating the spine.

Forward Bends

Forwards bends with your hands stretched ahead to touch the toes involve the entire body going into a flexible pose, stretching the muscles just enough. To perform this, you must stand straight and bend forward to touch your toes or the ground. Try remaining in this position for as long as possible and then go back to the original posture. Repeat this 3 to 5 times. You can include forward bends in your morning routine to relax muscles and ensure flexibility.

Leg Kicks

These engage your leg muscles, which greatly influence your overall growth and height. For doing a leg kick or high kick, stand straight in a comfortable pose, supporting your body on one foot and kicking the other in the air. This allows your hamstrings to be stretched and supports muscle movement and growth.

Jumping or Skipping

The growth plates in your legs are engaged during a skipping or jumping session, making this an ideal workout regimen for the growth and toning of muscles. Try starting this routine with 5 minutes and increase the time as your legs grow familiar with the jumps or skipping.

Side Stretches

This simple exercise can be done anywhere and is a great way to boost height. Stand upright, stretch one hand above your head, and bend on the other side by your waist. Try extending your body as much as possible in this pose and returning to the original posture. If you are a beginner, start with a 10-second hold and increase this span over time.

Swimming

It is a good workout for increasing your height and an effective way to maintain heart and lung health. It is a complete routine that you can start under the guidance of a trained coach. Several variations, such as the breaststrokes, are especially useful in enhancing muscle growth and increasing height, particularly in adolescents.

While most of these exercises are quite simple and do not involve vigorous use of muscles, it is always advisable to start them under the observation of an expert. Also, a medical insurance plan can protect you in case of medical treatment arising from any unforeseen injury or physical distress when trying new workout routines.

Conclusion

While these exercises for increasing height may not dramatically alter the influence of genetics, they can positively influence your posture, spinal health, and overall body flexibility. Doing these exercises regularly can create a foundation for a taller-looking physique. Just as with choosing the right health insurance plan to safeguard your well-being, achieving your height goal is a holistic journey that involves multiple factors, including genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle. Embrace these exercises as part of a comprehensive approach to enhancing your overall health, including health insurance, and standing a little taller in your confidence.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Which Are The Best Exercises To Relieve Neck Pain?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Dealing with consistent neck pain can uncomfortable and unpleasant. It may impact people of any age or background.

Whether it stems from incorrect body alignment, extended periods spent seated at a workstation, or other unknown factors, discovering an efficient means to mitigate neck discomfort is pivotal for upholding one’s overall health.

One highly viable method for managing and relieving neck pain revolves around specialised exercises and prescribed stretches.

Including exercises for neck pain and stretching techniques into your daily regimen can be an effective method to tackle this matter and enhance your overall well-being proactively.

Let’s delve into the best exercises for neck pain with detailed instructions on how to do them.

Best exercises for neck pain

Here’s the list of exercises for neck pain

Neck tilt
Neck rotation
Neck retraction
Shoulder blade squeeze
Chin tucks

1. Neck tilt

Begin by assuming an upright or seated stance, ensuring your shoulders are relaxed and aligned properly. Slowly tilt your left ear towards the corresponding shoulder, creating a subtle elongation sensation along the right side of your neck. Hold this elongated position for 15-30 seconds, avoiding sudden or jerky movements. Gradually raise your head back to its neutral, aligned position. Replicate the stretch by tilting your head to the opposite side, bringing your right ear towards the right shoulder. Aim for 2-3 sets of this sequence on both sides, ensuring precision and consistency throughout your session. Simultaneously engage in deep, rhythmic breathing as you perform the stretches consistently.

2. Neck rotation

Start by assuming an upright position, either sitting or standing. Ensure your shoulders are relaxed; your spine should remain straight. To initiate a slow turn, gently rotate your head towards one side until your chin aligns with your shoulder. Maintain the stretch for around 15-30 seconds while experiencing the gentle sensation along the side of your neck. Gradually bring your head back to its original centre position. Now, repeat the process on the opposite side. Aim to perform 2-3 sets of neck rotations on each side for optimal results.

3. Neck retraction

Begin in an upright position, whether sitting or standing, with your back straight. Ensure your head is in a neutral position, facing forward, without tilting or looking up or down. Gently tuck your chin towards your neck, creating a subtle double-chin appearance. Maintain the chin tuck for a few seconds, then release the tuck without tilting your head backwards. Repeat the chin tuck and release motion for 10-15 reps.

Which Are The Best Exercises For Toning The Hips?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Developing a well-proportioned figure necessitates the cultivation of sturdy and conspicuous hip muscles. By doing so, you not only enhance your physical appearance but also create an opportunity to amplify your posture, flexibility, and strength in the lower regions of your body. In light of this objective, we have specifically mentioned productive exercises for the butt and hips by targeting their muscle groups.

Best exercises for hips

Below are some exercises for hips that can be incorporated into your daily fitness regimen:

Squats
Pigeon poses
Lunges
Curtsy lunges
Fire hydrant movements

1. Squats

Squats are one of the best exercises for wider hips. Start by positioning your feet at a shoulder-width distance, toes slightly angling outward. Descend gracefully by bending both your hips and knees, simulating sitting on a chair. Ensure you maintain an elevated chest and an aligned back, with your knees parallel to or following the same line as your toes. Lower yourself until your thighs are parallel to the ground, or according to what is physically comfortable for you. Push off firmly against their respective points on the ground using your heels primarily to stand upright again. Complete three sets comprising controlled movements and correct form, each consisting of 10–15 repetitions.

2. Pigeon pose

Start by assuming a push-up position with your knees and hands on the ground. Next, bring your knee forward. Position it behind your right wrist. Extend your leg back. Slowly lower your hips towards the floor, allowing a stretch in your hip. Ensure your hips are properly aligned and your back leg extends comfortably. Hold this pose for about 20-30 seconds while taking breaths. Repeat the movements by bringing forward your left knee.

3. Lunges

Stand straight with feet about hip-width apart; place your hands on your hips. Step forward with one of your legs, ensuring your knee is above your ankle. Bend the knees to lower your body towards the ground while keeping your back straight. Push off through the heel of your foot to return to the starting position. Switch legs; repeat the movement by performing it with the other leg, completing one lunge.

Which Are The Best Exercises For The Quadriceps?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Adequate lower body strength and stability rely on robust and well-developed quadriceps. These front-thigh muscles are pivotal for both day-to-day activities and athletic performance. To effectively enhance and fortify these muscles, it’s crucial to incorporate diverse exercises into your fitness regimen. Among the top-tier exercises that zero in on the quadriceps are squats, lunges and leg presses, as they activate the muscles across various ranges of motion.

Elevating the effectiveness of your quadriceps training can be achieved through activities like step-ups and cycling, which contribute to additional muscle growth and definition. This article will delve into optimal exercises for the quadriceps, guiding you toward attaining the utmost leg strength and functionality.

Best exercises for quadriceps

Here are the top 5 best exercises for the quadriceps:

Squats
Lunges
Leg presses
Bulgarian split squats
Wall sits

1. Squats

Squats represent the fundamental compound exercise that activates several muscle groups simultaneously, primarily emphasising the quadriceps. To execute a squat:

Stand with your feet at shoulder width.
Maintain an elevated chest; engage your core muscles.
Bend your knees and push your hips rearward, like settling into an invisible chair.
Descend until your thighs reach a position parallel to the ground, propelling yourself back up through your heels to reclaim the initial stance.

Beyond fortifying the quad exercises, squats enhance stability across the lower body.

2. Lunges

Lunges represent an excellent workout for focusing on the quadriceps and improving balance and coordination. To perform lunges:

Initiate by moving one leg forward and descending your body until the knees reach a 90-degree angle.
Ensure your front knee does not go past your toes.
Push through the heel of your front foot to return to the starting position.
Repeat on both legs.

You can perform lunges with weights or by holding dumbbells to increase resistance.

3. Leg press

The leg press is a machine-based practice that isolates the quadriceps. Sit on the leg press machine and ensure your feet remain separated on the platform at shoulder-width. Push the platform away by extending your knees without locking them. Slowly lower the platform back down towards your body. Now, adjust the weight according to your fitness level. The leg press allows you to target your quadriceps with heavy resistance, aiding muscle growth.

Which Are The Best Exercises For Cervical Pain?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Dealing with cervical pain can be a real pain in the neck! Cervical pain, also known as neck pain, refers to discomfort or pain in the cervical spine region, the upper part of the spine that encompasses the neck. Blame it on our modern lifestyles — hours spent hunched over screens and desks can wreak havoc on our necks.

But the good news is that incorporating simple exercises into your daily fitness regimen can make a significant difference in alleviating cervical pain. Let’s explore the five best exercises for cervical pain that can help you say goodbye to nagging neck discomfort.

Best exercises for cervical pain

Neck tilts
Neck rotations
Chin tucks
Shoulder blade squeezes
Ear-to-shoulder stretch

Let’s look at the correct technique to do each of these exercises for cervical pain.

1. Neck tilts

One of the simplest yet most effective exercises for cervical pain, neck tilts are a game-changer. Sit or stand straight, slowly tilt your head to one side and bring your ear closer to your shoulder. Maintaining the tilt on each side for about 15 to 20 seconds can work wonders.

Neck tilts primarily target the muscles on the sides of your neck, helping to release built-up tension and promote flexibility. This gentle stretch encourages better blood circulation to the neck area, reducing pain and increasing the range of motion.

2. Neck rotations

Neck rotations are soothing exercises that can help ease stiffness and enhance the mobility of your cervical spine. This exercise involves rotating your head to the left and right as if you are saying no. Begin with your head facing straight ahead, then gradually turn to the left and right. A fluid motion is critical here; avoid jerky movements.

By partaking in these rotations, you are effectively broadening your neck’s range of motion and easing the stiffness holding you back.

3. Chin tucks

Chin tucks target the deep cervical flexor muscles, which play an important role in maintaining proper neck alignment. Strengthening these muscles can lead to improved posture, reduced strain on the neck, and a more stable and comfortable neck position.

To do chin tucks while sitting or standing, gently retract your chin, bringing it towards your throat without tilting your head up or down. Hold this position for a few seconds, then release it. Repeat this exercise multiple times to help counteract the strain caused by hunching forward.

Which Are The Best Exercises To Reduce Love Handles?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

Last updated on: 4 Jul 2025

Love handles, those double pockets of fat around the waist, can become a frustrating challenge for many. While spot reduction is a myth, targeted exercise can help tighten and tone the surrounding muscles, contributing to a more sculpted waistline. Let’s delve into five fantastic exercises that can make up an effective love handle workout to say goodbye to those pesky handles and hello to a more confident you. Do complement the love handle workout with a balanced diet and holistic fitness approach for the best results.

What are love handles?

Love handles refer to the pockets of fat that appear on the sides of your waist. They usually become more noticeable when wearing tight clothing or bending sideways. Despite the name, there’s nothing particularly lovely about them when they affect your confidence or health.

This type of fat is known as subcutaneous fat and can be stubborn to lose. It builds up due to a combination of factors like unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and even hormonal imbalances.

Do love handles pose risks?

While love handles may seem like just an aesthetic issue, they might also be a sign of increased fat accumulation around the abdomen. This type of fat, especially visceral fat, is linked to serious health problems such as:

Heart disease
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Stroke

Managing waist fat is not just about looking better, it’s about improving your overall health. This is particularly important as we age. Many families worry about healthcare costs for ageing parents, especially if health problems develop. This is where health insurance becomes essential. The insurance ensures they receive proper care when needed without the financial stress that can come with unexpected medical expenses.

Exercises for reducing love handles

Here are some of the most effective exercises:

Russian twist

Russian twists are dynamic and engaging exercises targeting the oblique muscles and trim love handles. To perform this exercise, sit on the floor with your feet flat and your knees bent. Lift your feet off the ground while you lean back slightly, maintaining a straight back. Holding a weight or a suitable object, twist your torso to the right and the left.

Bicycle crunches

Begin by lying on your back with your hands behind your head and your legs lifted off the ground. As you bring your right elbow to your left knee, simultaneously extend your right leg. Alternate sides, creating a pedalling motion while engaging your core and obliques. T

Side planks

Start by lying on your side, supporting your body weight on one forearm with one foot stacked on top of the other. Lift your hips off the ground, aligning your head and heels in a straight line. Hold this position, feeling the deep engagement of the obliques and the lateral core muscles.

Standing side crunches

While on your feet, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hands gently clasped behind your head. Slowly bend to the right side to bring your right elbow towards your hip. Return to the upright position and repeat on the left side.

Woodchoppers

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and a weight held with both hands above one shoulder. As you chop diagonally across your body, pivot your feet and engage your core to complete the motion.

Diet tips to reduce love handle fat

Here are some simple but effective dietary changes:

Cut back on sugar and refined carbs: These are stored as fat, especially around the belly.
Increase protein intake: Protein keeps you quite full and helps build lean muscle.
Eat more fibre: Soluble fibre from fruits, vegetables and oats can help reduce belly fat.
Stay hydrated: Sometimes, thirst might be mistaken for hunger. Water aids digestion and reduces bloating.
Avoid processed foods: Try to stick to whole, natural foods whenever possible.

Conclusion

Love handles may seem like a small issue, but they can reflect deeper health concerns. When you combine targeted exercises with a balanced diet, you can reduce excess fat and improve your well-being. It's also wise to think ahead about long-term health, especially for ageing family members.

Along with fitness and nutrition, senior citizen health insurance ensures they are covered for unexpected health needs.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Which Are the Best Exercises For Toning The Calves?

by iciclombard 01 | Oct 26, 2023

One cannot overlook the importance of well-developed calf muscles when achieving a well-rounded and balanced physique. Solid and stable calves are vital in boosting athletic performance, maintaining balance, and bolstering overall leg power. Whether you’re a dedicated sports enthusiast or pursuing improved lower-body aesthetics, integrating appropriate exercises into your workout regimen can yield significant results. This blog will delve into the finest five exercises for calf muscles renowned for building well-defined, robust calf muscles.

Best exercises for the calf

Calf raises while standing
Calf raises while sitting
Donkey calf raises
Jump rope
Stretching exercises for the calf

1. Standing calf raises

The standing calf raise is a fundamental workout for building calf muscles. This movement effectively engages the calf region’s gastrocnemius and soleus muscles.

Stand upright with your feet spaced hip-width apart to execute a standing calf raise. Grab a wall or other stable object for support. Rise up onto the balls of your feet by slowly bringing your heels off the floor. Hold the contraction at the top moment before lowering your heels back down. To increase the intensity, you can use dumbbells, a calf raise machine, or perform the exercise on a step to achieve a greater range of motion.

2. Seated calf raises

The soleus muscle, which lies beneath the bigger gastrocnemius muscle, is the primary target of seated calf raises. In this exercise, the user sits on a calf raise machine or a bench with the knees bent to a ninety-degree angle while the feet rest on a platform.

You can place a weight across your thighs or use the machine’s weight stack. Push through the balls of your feet to raise the heels, contracting your calf muscles at the top. Lower the weight slowly and repeat. Seated calf raises are excellent for isolating the soleus muscle and promoting balanced calf development.

3. Donkey calf raises

Donkey calf raises are less common but are one of the highly effective exercises for calf muscles. You’ll need a partner or a calf raises machine to perform this exercise that supports the donkey calf-raising motion. Position yourself on the machine with your upper body bent forward at the waist and your hips against the padding.

Your partner or the machine’s weight must remain on your lower back. Perform calf raises by lifting your heels as high as possible while maintaining the bend in your waist. This exercise provides a unique angle of resistance, targeting the calf muscles from a different perspective.

4. Jump rope

Incorporating cardiovascular exercises like jumping rope can also contribute to calf development. Jumping rope enhances cardiovascular fitness and engages your calf muscles as you repeatedly push off the ground. This exercise is particularly effective for developing calf endurance and explosiveness.