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The ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Iran has offered some respite to the Nepal government, which had been scrambling to rescue its citizens from the two countries. As tensions escalated, nearly 1,000 Nepalis in Israel had expressed desire to return home. 

Had there been no ceasefire, the fallout would likely have extended beyond Israel and Iran, affecting Nepali workers across the entire Middle East (West Asia for Nepal).

Iran’s strike on the American military base in Qatar had already sparked panic among the Nepali workers. Qatar hosts around 365,000 Nepali migrant workers.  Whenever a conflict erupts in the Middle East, Nepal bears the brunt. Hundreds of thousands Nepalis are working in the region, and the remittances they send home are a backbone of Nepli economy. If these workers were to return from the labor destination countries in droves, remittances would dry up. Soon, there would be an unemployment crisis. Prolonged conflict in the Middle East could also cause shortages or price hikes of petroleum products.

At the time of writing, Iran and Israel—despite agreeing to the truce—continue to exchange fire. At this uncertain time, the safety and security of Nepali workers in the Middle East must be the government’s prime concern. It should face the reality of the situation and come up with a proper strategy to evacuate its citizens in the event of an emergency. It should start by strengthening the presence of Nepali embassies. For long, Nepali embassies not just in the Middle East but around the world have been grappling with insufficient resources. Many embassies are short-staffed and are thus unable to coordinate an emergency mission. Worse, they do not have information about the number of its citizens.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the top nine destinations for Nepali migrant workers are Malaysia (700,000), Saudi Arabia (400,000), Qatar (365,000), the UAE (250,000), Kuwait (70,000), South Korea (40,000), Bahrain (25,000), Oman (20,000) and Israel (3,000).

Foreign relations experts suggest it is high time Nepal increased its reach and presence in those countries with a high number of Nepali migrant workers. A long-term peace in the Middle East is still a shaky prospect, so the government should explore alternative job destinations as well as prioritize domestic job creation.   

US President Donald Trump has accused the two countries of violating a ceasefire hours after he announced it, expressing particular frustration with Israel, which had announced plans for major new strikes on Tehran.

“Israel, as soon as we made the deal they came out and they dropped a load of bombs, the likes of which I’ve never seen before,” he said as he departed Washington for a NATO summit in the Netherlands. “The biggest load that we’ve seen.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that two of the 16 Nepalis in Iran were evacuated from Mashhad to New Delhi. We express our sincere gratitude to the Government of India for facilitating the evacuation process, said the ministry.  Efforts are underway to evacuate the remaining 14 Nepalis, according to the ministry.  Over 950 Nepali nationals in Israel have registered expressing their interests to return to Nepal but the ministry is yet to initiate the process of evacuation from there.

Is the heat making you want to shut the windows, turn on the AC, and stay inside the house? As it gets unbelievably hot, all we want to do is the bare minimum. But it would be almost blasphemous not to make use of the longer days by indulging in activities that are far more pleasurable in summer. While we definitely recommend staying out of the scorching heat or using an umbrella, if you must go out in the sun, there are a good number of things that you can do when it’s hot outside and you want to do nothing more than plonk yourself in front of the TV.

Water workouts 

Many places these days offer water workouts like aqua zumba and competitive swimming. Sign up for a class so that you can get a workout in while chilling in the pool during hot summer days. If you don’t know how to swim, then there can never be a better time to learn. You can even make this a couple’s thing and get some quality time or enroll in classes with friends.

Evening stroll

Take advantage of the longer daylight hours and head out for an evening stroll after work. Visit local haunts or discover some place new in your area. Patan Durbar Square comes alive in the evenings with vendors, temper-goers, and people just lazing around. Local parks and even malls are good places to hang around in the evening when the sun is milder and there’s a gentle breeze in the air. This could be a good time to get a little workout in as well.

Get creative

There are many classes and workshops that you can enroll in when the days are longer and you seem to have more time. From candle-making and pottery to cooking and photography, there is just so much to choose from. You don’t have to commit to these long term, if you don’t want to. Sign up for a class and see how you feel about it. It’s a good way to learn something new while staying away from the heat but not slouched on your couch or bed.

Plan a party

Too lazy to go out and meet friends over the weekend? Why not invite them over and turn it into a fun summer meet up? You can prepare some light snacks and drinks or order-in. Decide what you want to do beforehand. Do you want to indulge in a round of board games? Or is watching a scary movie more your thing? Depending on what you want to do, you can plan your day around it. It’s always a good idea to spend some time together and bond.

Paint and sip

The concept of painting something while indulging in some wine or cocktails had become quite a trend when House of Palettes, an art center in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur, came up with it. Slowly, the novelty died down but there are many places that offer the same facility these days. There are also many pop up places that offer the service at reasonable prices during the weekend as well. It’s a particularly enjoyable activity on a hot summer day.

Spa day

The hot weather is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. Book yourself a manicure, pedicure session and throw in a full body massage as well. This is again another thing you can do with your partner or a friend. We recommend Ayurvedic massages and treatments that are extremely relaxing. An entire day at the spa is such a perfect way to spend a particularly hot summer day when you don’t want to do much else. 

Shilajit, a Sanskrit word, if translated, refers to the conqueror of the mountains and the destroyer of weakness. It is a sticky, tar-like, rocky exudate, a natural byproduct of humus and decomposed plant remains found at high altitudes in the Himalayas, reaching up to 10,000 feet. Some experts also refer to it as a plant fossil—an intriguing aspect of bio-science. 

Shilajit, a dietary supplement with a rich historical background dating back to the Bronze Age, has been a trusted part of traditional medicine for centuries. This natural, rocky exudate, known as Shilajit, is also referred to as Mimi or Mummiyo. It is called asphaltum, black bitumen, or mineral pitch in the West. The unique mountain resin is a safe and potent source of 84 minerals, including copper, silver, zinc, iron, and lead. Its active compound, fulvic acid, has been associated with numerous health benefits, carrying forward the legacy of our ancestors. 

Shilajit has played a significant role in myriad medications, including stress and anxiety, piles, anemia, kidney stones, urinary disorders, epilepsy, skin diseases, and thyroid glands. According to the Ayurvedic scripture, shilajit is a ‘Rasayana’, a term that refers to a rejuvenating substance that fights diseases and promotes overall wellness and longevity. 

Shilajit, a natural multi-mineral originating in India, is also used in Siddha, Ayurveda, and Tibetan medicine regimen. It is extracted from high mountain rocks, primarily found in the Himalayas, as well as in Russia, Tibet, Norway, Bhutan, Nepal, Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan. When purchasing Shilajit, it’s essential to ensure it comes from a reputable source to guarantee its authenticity and quality. 

Shilajit supplements are widely available from various sources, including online shops, Ayurveda pharmacies, drugstores, and health food stores. They may come in different forms, such as powder, extract, resin, or capsules, offering you a variety of options to suit your preferences and needs. 

Each form has its own benefits and usage instructions. It’s essential to note that the quality and safety of Shilajit can vary depending on its source. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose products from reputable sources that adhere to strict quality control measures to ensure the purity and safety of their products. 

Some of the top picks include Pure Shilajit Organic Himalayan Resin, Essencraft Pure Himalayan Shilajit Supplement, Sennasi Organic Pure Himalayan Shilajit Supplement, Rasaynam, and Hima Pure Himalayan Shilajit Resin.  

Widely used today worldwide, Shilajit offers a range of potent health benefits worth exploring.

May enhance testosterone

A sex hormone, testosterone, takes a high seat in men's health.  Testosterone deficiency, besides low sex drive (libido), may lead to other symptoms like loss of muscle mass, hair loss, body fat gain, and fatigue. According to Healthline’s website, a clinical study on male volunteers found that Shilajit was effective. In a clinical study of male volunteers aged 45-55, half received a placebo and the other half a 250 milligram (mg) dose of purified shilajit twice daily. The study conducted over three months deduced that participants taking purified shilajit had a remarkably higher testosterone level in contrast to those under placebo.

There is more. Rich in minerals, regular intake of the recommended dose of shilajit may also enhance vigor, agility, and endurance and work as a potent aphrodisiac.

May slow down Alzheimer’s disease

Some researchers suggest that owing to shilajit’s molecular composition it may help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s or even avert it—a type of age-related mental disorder or dementia that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and social abilities. Shilajit, rich in a potent antioxidant called fulvic acid, is purported to enhance cognitive health, potentially offering a ray of hope in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

In further studies, experts found the abnormal tau protein buildup as the main culprit behind brain cell damage, ultimately leading to Alzheimer’s. Shilajit, rich in fulvic acid, may help prevent the buildup of tau protein, reduce inflammation, and act as a retardant in the progression of brain cell damage.  

However, experts note that further research and clinical trials are necessary to assess the role of fulvic acid fully. 

Contains anti-inflammatory antioxidant properties

Researchers suggest that shilajit functions as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, strengthening the immune system through its fulvic acid content. It may help curb or allay chronic inflammatory disorders such as allergies, asthma, eczema, and even diabetes, as high sugar levels trigger the body’s inflammatory response. Due to its high mineral content, it also helps lower oxidative stress.

May strengthen bone and stamina

Collagen is the most abundant body protein, accounting for 30 percent of the body’s protein. It provides support, framework, and power to muscles, bones, tendons, and connective tissues and repairs and restores them. Regular intake of shilajit may promote collagen production, potentially benefiting athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Shilajit showed positive results in boosting physical performance and alleviating fatigue, as it helps produce enhanced adenosine triphosphate.

Good for the heart and diabetes

Rich in antioxidant properties and chock-full of minerals, including fulvic and humic acids, as well as adaptogenic compounds, shilajit enhances the health of body cells and reduces cholesterol levels; experts believe it may lower the risk of heart disease and maintain a healthy lipid profile. Furthermore, science-backed studies have shown that regular intake of the recommended dose of Shilajit helps boost insulin sensitivity and maintain glucose metabolism, the two primary factors that regulate and stabilize blood sugar levels. Owing to its high mineral content, Shilajit helps the body use insulin more effectively and regulate blood sugar levels. 

For being mineral-rich, containing over 80 essential minerals, and loaded with fulvic acid, humic acid, and other organic compounds, these components give shilajit abundant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, making it a promising ingredient for managing diabetes and maintaining a stable glycemic level.

Dosage

Clinically, a dose of 300-500 mg once daily is considered safe and effective for healthy individuals. However, it’s essential to note that the appropriate dosage may vary depending on factors such as age, health condition, and the form of Shilajit used. Rest assured, following the instructions on the product bottle and purchasing Shilajit from a reputable source will ensure you get the most for your money and health.

While Shilajit is a natural dietary supplement with potential health benefits, it's essential to remember that it remains a supplement. To ensure your safety and the best possible health benefits of Shilajit, you should consult your healthcare provider or an Ayurved healthcare expert before starting it. Their guidance can help you navigate potential drug interactions and side effects, ensuring your journey with Shilajit is safe and beneficial.

Is Shilajit safe?

Today, Shilajit is making waves in the US due to its numerous purported health benefits. Research into the efficacy of these health claims is ongoing, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve Shilajit due to a lack of adequate research and studies.

Regarding safety, shilajit is usually considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. Some science-backed evidence suggests that shilajit is safe and well-sustained, and most people have benefitted from its intake, even when taken long-term, with hardly any adverse reactions.  

Suppose you plan to take shilajit as a supplement. In that case, it is wise to consult an Ayurveda healthcare professional or your healthcare provider who can advise you about potential drug interactions to get the best results. Don't take shilajit to treat a health condition or to replace a prescription drug without consulting a healthcare provider.

Caveat: Intake of shilajit is usually considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, some people may experience potential side effects, such as bloating, upset stomach, diarrhea, and allergic skin reactions, including rashes, hives, and itching. Further, pregnant or breastfeeding mothers are advised not to take shilajit.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above text are solely research-based and intended for informative and educational purposes only: the author solicits reader discretion and cross-references or consulting a healthcare practitioner before incorporating it as a supplement.

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Eating out is something all of us enjoy and there is no dearth of restaurants in town. There are all kinds of places, catering to different types of tastes and moods. However, eating out can be an expensive affair and yet it’s something we do regularly because we need to grab lunch with colleagues, catch up with friends, or are too lazy to cook at home. To help with that, we have listed five places where the food is good and the bill won’t leave you feeling guilty about grabbing lunch or dinner out as often as you must.

Handi Biryani, Boudha

It’s a small eatery in Boudha, near the Boudhanath Stupa, that you might miss if you aren’t looking for it. It’s located on the first floor, approximately 200 meters before you reach the main entrance of the stupa on the other side of the road. The entrance to the eatery is located inside an alley but you can see the sign on the window from the main street. It has a select few items on the menu. There are some starters and the main highlight is definitely the biryani. The single portion is more than enough for one. You can also order a bunch of sides at additional costs which is as little as Rs 80. We highly recommend this place for the fast service and the delicious food. The chicken wings are worth a mention too. But tell the server how spicy you want it to be beforehand.

Monster Meal, Jhamsikhel

If you want to grab a quick lunch and you’re in Jhamsikhel, look no further than Monster Meal. Located near the famous Mantra Thakali, this place serves mouth-watering delights like wings, burgers, momos, lunch combos, and more. The food reaches your table real quick and tastes really good. It’s not a place to hang out for long, just somewhere to drop by to get a quick meal. Our favorite is their chicken wings which are smoking hot and delicious. You can’t just eat one. We challenge you. It’s flavorful, juicy, and spicy—just the way chicken wings are supposed to be. It tastes great when paired with their virgin mojito that is fresh and just the right amount of sweet. The burgers too are freshly prepared and great value for money.

Croissant Cafe, Thapathali

Located about 300 meters ahead of Prasuti Griha, in the road that connects Thapathali to Maitighar, Croissant Cafe might be inconspicuous to most people but it’s quite a popular joint among those who are familiar with the area. This is mostly because the space is nice and the food is even better. There are large enough tables and private spaces for meetings as well. They serve a variety of beverages, including alcoholic ones. They have a wide selection of items on the menu. They have pizzas, pastas, momos, biryani, curries, and more. It’s easily one of the places that serve everything you could want under one roof. The ambience is nice as well. We recommend their butter chicken and rice combo as well as their chicken chili. But you can’t go wrong with anything here. The chef really knows what he’s doing.

Mumbai Street Food, Basantapur

We chanced upon this small eatery in Basantapur when we were there recently. The name caught our eye and the open space looked neat and clean as did the tiny kitchen behind the counter. We stepped in, hesitant at first, but eager to try everything once we saw what was on the menu. The place quickly gets packed because there are only a few tables but if you are able to grab one, then we recommend you don’t leave without trying their delightful vada pav and rolls. Like most places on this list, this too only has a few items on its menu but everything tastes great. The nachos are crunchy with just the right amount of softness. The sandwich is simple and filling. Their vada pav and pav bhaji are the best we’ve had in town. They have a good range of drinks as well, from Turkish Coffee to Bubble Tea.

Shreeya Sweets, Jawalakhel

If you want some quick Indian food at reasonable prices, then Shreeya Sweets in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, is a great place. It serves rotis, parathas, dosas, chaats, and many other Indian delicacies at affordable prices. It’s a bit packed during lunch hours as many people stop by to grab a bite to eat here. The samosa and pani puri are also really good here. We recommend the samosa when it’s freshly made and ask them to make the pani puri a little on the spicier side. There are also many Indian sweet treats to choose from. Their speciality is the ‘besan ko laddu’ that they claim has the right amount of besan and sugar, and not more of the latter as most mithai shops tend to do. They also serve different kinds of teas. For those who don’t like tea, there’s coffee, juice, and lassi.