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Openly Gay Prince Turned Palace Into Safe Haven For LGBTQ+ Indians | The Optimist Daily

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Gay Pride India.

Countries around the world make encouraging and incremental progress toward equality every day. Many countries are banning inhumane practices such as conversion therapy, and some are making restitution to former victims of overturned anti-LGBTQ+ laws. While this is emboldening the fight for equal rights and justice, some nations still have important changes to make, but they are fighting hard to make them.

For openly gay Crown Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil of Gujarat, India, his country has come very far but still has very far to go.

An LGBTQ+ safe haven

Prince Gohil knew very early in his life that he was gay. He only came out publicly, though, in 2006 when he was 41 years old, and there was a public uproar.

“The day I came out, my effigies were burnt. There were a lot of protests, people took to the streets and shouted slogans saying that I brought shame and humiliation to the royal family and to the culture of India. There were death threats and demands that I be stripped off of my title,” Gohil said to Insider. Even his parents, the Maharaja and Maharani of Rajpipla, disowned him for being who he is.

Homosexuality was only made legal in India in 2018. Before that, homosexual acts could carry a life sentence, and some conservative Indians still believe it is a mental disorder, but this doesn’t dissuade Gohil from his mission of kindness and understanding.

“I don’t blame the people who are against me. I blame their ignorance on the subject.”

Prince Gohil continues his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. He primarily works to dismantle the stigma around LGBTQ+ individuals in India. This is why 20 years ago he founded Lakshya Trust, a charitable organization with the mission of improving the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Gujarat, but that’s not all.

When homosexuality was officially made legal in India, Prince Gohil opened up his 15-acre palace grounds to the LGBTQ+ community as a shelter for vulnerable individuals. It was, ironically, the very same palace grounds he was once banned from when he came out many years ago.

Continuing the fight

While being gay is now legal, many anti-LGBTQ+ behaviors persist in India. Conversion therapy, the ineffective practice of trying to change an individual’s sexuality, is still legal in India. Prince Gohil himself was subjected to this traumatic practice after he came out. Gay marriage is still illegal in India too, but this did not stop Prince Gohil from falling in love and marrying his current husband. He continues to use his reputation and celebrity to fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

“Now we have to fight for issues like same-sex marriage, right to inheritance, right to adoption. It’s a never-ending cycle. I have to keep fighting.”

This story was part of our Best of 2022 series highlighting our top solutions from the year. Today we’re featuring solutions in politics, policy-making, and governance.

The post Openly gay prince turned palace into safe haven for LGBTQ+ Indians first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

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What Went Right This Week: A Major Win For Climate Justice, Plus More

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Discover The Refreshing Benefits Of Mint Water, Your Summer Hydration Solution | The Optimist Daily

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Nothing beats a cool drink on a hot summer day. While sugary drinks may tempt you, there is a healthier option that promises to quench your thirst while also improving your health: mint water. Let’s explore the myriad reasons why you should make mint water a staple in your summer hydration routine.

Mint water: a summer essential

Mint water is a simple but refreshing mixture of water mixed with fresh mint leaves. Mint, which belongs to the Mentha plant family, has long been revered for its therapeutic benefits. Whether spearmint or peppermint, this aromatic plant offers a blast of flavor to your hydration routine, keeping you cool and energized all day.

The health benefits of mint water
Improves digestion

Mint water improves digestion by relaxing the digestive tract and relieving symptoms such as gas and bloating. According to research published in the journal Biology, peppermint has digestive advantages because it relaxes stomach muscles, encouraging better digestion.

Smooths out hormonal imbalances

Mint water may help control hormone levels, especially in cases of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). According to a study published in Biomolecular Concepts, spearmint has hormone-balancing qualities, which can help with hormonal abnormalities.

Keeps you hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for healthy physical processes, and mint water is a tasty alternative to ordinary water. By infusing water with mint, you improve its appeal while also guaranteeing appropriate hydration to promote general health.

Reduces stress

Mint’s relaxing characteristics make it a natural stress reliever. Incorporating mint water into your daily routine will help you relax and fight stress efficiently, enhancing mental health.

Helps you lose weight

Mint water is a delicious, low-calorie, sugar-free beverage that aids in weight loss. According to research published in the International Journal of Obesity, replacing sugary drinks with water can help people lose weight.

Boosts immunity 

Mint water is high in vitamins and antioxidants, which help to improve the immune system and defend against infections and illnesses. These nutrients support cellular defense processes, which protect your health.

Improves skin health

Mint’s salicylic acid and vitamin A concentration promote clear and bright skin. Mint water’s antimicrobial properties also aid with inflammation and acne, supporting skin health from the inside.

How to make mint water at home

Making mint water at home is an easy process. Simply follow these steps.

– Rinse fresh mint leaves thoroughly.

– Place the leaves into a pitcher or container.

– Fill the container with water and allow it to soak for several hours or overnight.

– Chill the mint-infused water for a cool, pleasant beverage.

Potential side effects and precautions

While mint water has various health benefits, it is important to exercise caution, particularly if you have certain medical issues. Mint water may aggravate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in some people. Consult your doctor before adding mint water to your diet, especially if you have severe digestive or kidney problems.

This summer, embrace the stimulating deliciousness of mint water and up your hydration game with a delightful combination of taste and well-being!

 

The post Discover the refreshing benefits of mint water, your summer hydration solution first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

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The Muslim Women Walking For Mental Health

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