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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1576 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 19, 2022

Anu Krishna is a mind coach and relationship expert.
The co-founder of Unfear Changemakers LLP, she has received her neuro linguistic programming training from National Federation of NeuroLinguistic Programming, USA, and her energy work specialisation from the Institute for Inner Studies, Manila.
She is an executive member of the Indian Association of Adolescent Health.... more
BG Question by BG on Jan 19, 2022Hindi
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Relationship

Dear Anuji,
My aunt lost her husband to Covid and is 42 years of age. She is extremely afraid of going to another city, station, elevators.
She panics. This condition was known to her and family after she had a fracture and was taken for CT scan where she panicked and begged for a place by the window.
She was claustrophobic we learned and later she was afraid of going to any place other then just remaining home.

Kindly please help us step by step with your valuable guidance.
Thanking you,
With respects,
BG

Ans:

Dear BG,

I am truly sorry for the loss in the family.

Take your aunt to open spaces like parks, beaches…the fear of closed spaces and gasping for air could be triggered from any past experiences.

It’s the way in which she has perceived the experience in the first place that has become her truth and reality.

This needs to be substituted with the experience of open spaces into closed spaces.

Ask her to imagine a beach while she is in an elevator; but make sure someone accompanies her on these trips till she is ready to make trips by herself.

Work with a mental health therapist if she doesn’t want or refuses to make this change.

All said, do make sure that she is not forced with this and it is a slow process as she is still in the process of grieving.

Please help her heal from the loss before suggesting any changes. She needs the love, care and support of the family.

Be well and happy always!

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How to overcome claustrophobia
Ans: Overcoming claustrophobia, the fear of enclosed spaces or situations, involves a step-by-step approach that blends self-help techniques with the guidance of professionals specializing in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and life coaching. Here's a revised version of the steps you can take:

Knowledge and Awareness: Begin by learning about claustrophobia and its triggers. Recognize that this is a common anxiety disorder and not something isolated to you alone. Understanding its nature can help alleviate some of the fear associated with it.

Gradual Exposure: Ease into challenging situations that trigger your claustrophobia. Start with those that cause minimal discomfort. For instance, if elevators trigger your anxiety, begin by standing near one without getting in, and progressively work your way up to stepping inside for short periods. Gradual exposure can help desensitize your fear response.

Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation practices like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness. These techniques can assist in reducing anxiety when confronting triggering scenarios.

Visualization: Envision yourself in situations that usually evoke claustrophobia. Visualize yourself remaining calm and composed. This technique empowers you to build a sense of control and confidence.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP): Consult with an NLP practitioner who specializes in addressing phobias. NLP can help reframe thought patterns and behaviors associated with claustrophobia, assisting you in altering your perception of triggering situations.

Life Coaching Support: Engage a life coach who is experienced in guiding individuals through overcoming fears. A life coach can provide motivation, encouragement, and practical strategies for managing claustrophobia.

Virtual Reality Exposure: Some professionals use virtual reality to create simulated environments that trigger your claustrophobia in a controlled setting. This method allows you to practice coping strategies within a safe environment.

Support Network: Communicate your struggles with friends and family. Having a supportive network can offer understanding and encouragement during your journey.

Professional Guidance: If your claustrophobia significantly impacts your daily life, consider seeking help from an NLP practitioner or life coach. They can customize strategies and provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Patience and Progress: Understand that conquering claustrophobia is a gradual process. Celebrate even the smallest victories and maintain patience with yourself.

Remember that you're embarking on a personal journey of growth and transformation. If your claustrophobia is disrupting your life, seeking assistance from a professional well-versed in NLP and life coaching is recommended. Their expertise can provide targeted approaches to help you overcome your fears and enhance your quality of life.

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General Physician - Answered on Apr 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 11, 2024Hindi
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My grandmother has Parkinson's and got a tube in her nose that extends to her stomach that so we can inject liquids easily as she completely avoids eating food and doesn't even swallow a sip of water. She snatched the tube out of her nose completely and now it cannot be used again. We cannot keep a check on her for full 24 hours but we try our best. Please suggest anything to avoid the snatching as once a tube has been taken out it cannot be re-inserted. And please one more thing that she keeps wetting the bed despite of using diapers. The diaper always leaks out and then my mom has to clean grandmother, her clothes, the bed sheets etc. She gets tired by doing this twice a day as it is a lot of work. Pls suggest something about the bed wetting to how to minimise it. She is around 70 kgs and cannot even get up herself so my mom has to pull her out of the bed which requires a lot of strength. My mom feels pain in her back and shoulder a lot. All of this happening around the house is too much. I will be grateful if you reply.
Ans: To avoid bed wetting you need to make her wear the correct size diaper. Undersheets can be used as an added protection.
Normally soaking happens if we do not change the diaper adequately.
Please ask your Mom to do some upper body work outs through a physios, help.
With respect to the Ryle's tube, it is an irritant that one gets used to. If your Grandmom does not like it and non cooperative not much can be done. But you could check up with her Physician if now and then Parenteral nutrition can be given by hospitalising her

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I have been investing in shares for several years and have seen good returns, but with increasing market volatility, I'm considering diversifying into international stocks or alternative assets. What are the potential benefits and risks of each approach?
Ans: Diversifying into international stocks and alternative assets can be a strategic move, especially given your experience in financial analysis and investment planning. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and risks of each approach:
International Stocks
Benefits are as follows:
- Diversification – Investing globally reduces dependence on domestic market conditions and spreads risk
- Access to High-Growth Markets – Some international markets, particularly emerging economies, may offer higher growth potential.
- Currency Appreciation – If the foreign currency strengthens against the INR, your returns could increase.
- Exposure to Leading Industries – Developed markets like the U.S. provide access to top tech, healthcare, and finance companies.

Risks involved in international markets are as follows:
- Currency Fluctuations – Exchange rate volatility can impact returns.
- Political & Economic Risks – Foreign regulations, trade policies, and economic instability can affect investments.
- Higher Transaction Costs – International investing often involves additional fees and taxes.
- Limited Information Access – Researching foreign companies may be more challenging compared to domestic firms.

Alternative Assets (Real Estate, Commodities, Private Equity, etc.)
Following are the benefits:
- Low Correlation with Stock Markets – Alternative assets often move independently of traditional markets, helping mitigate volatility.
- Inflation Hedge – Real assets like gold and real estate tend to retain value during inflationary periods.
- Potential for High Returns – Private equity and hedge funds can offer substantial gains if managed well.
- Portfolio Customization – Some alternative investments allow direct control, such as real estate or private businesses.

Risks involved are as follows:
- Illiquidity – Many alternative assets, such as private equity and real estate, are not easily sold.
- Complexity – These investments often require specialized knowledge and due diligence.
- Higher Fees – Alternative investments may have higher management costs and entry barriers.
- Market Uncertainty – Some assets, like cryptocurrencies, can be highly volatile.

Given your methodical approach to financial planning, you might find international ETFs a convenient way to gain global exposure while managing risk. Similarly, REITs or commodity funds could be a structured way to enter alternative assets without direct ownership complexities.

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

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I'm now 68 years old. Living with my wife. I have 2 daughters. Both are well settled. I don't have any liability. I'm a pension holder. I'm getting Rs 75,000/- pension pm. I have invested Rs1,50,00,000 in FD. 7lakhs in Mutual funds, 6,50,000 in equity. 12 Lakhs in Sovereign Gold Bond, I'm getting Rs 35,000/- House rent pm. I have 25 lakhs Cash in hand. I want to deposit the above amount. How can I diversified the above amount to deposit?
Ans: Your financial position is strong. You have a steady pension and rental income. Your investments are diversified across FDs, mutual funds, equity, and gold bonds. Let’s allocate your Rs. 25L wisely.

Emergency Fund Allocation
Keep Rs. 5L in a high-interest savings account.

Use a liquid mutual fund for another Rs. 3L for easy access.

This ensures quick access to funds in case of unexpected expenses.

Debt Investment for Stability
Invest Rs. 7L in a mix of short-term and medium-term debt mutual funds.

These offer better post-tax returns than FDs.

Choose high-quality funds with stable performance.

Equity Investment for Growth
Allocate Rs. 5L to large-cap mutual funds via SIP.

This ensures gradual market participation and reduces risk.

Avoid direct stocks for this amount, as mutual funds offer better risk management.

Gold Investment for Inflation Hedge
You already have Rs. 12L in Sovereign Gold Bonds.

No additional gold investment is needed.

Regular Income Investment
Invest Rs. 5L in SWP-based mutual funds for periodic withdrawals.

This provides additional income while keeping capital appreciation intact.

Final Insights
Your current portfolio is well-structured. This allocation balances liquidity, stability, and growth. Your pension and rental income provide financial security. Diversifying your Rs. 25L ensures better returns while maintaining risk control.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

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Sir kindly suggest some mf for steady return for 5 yr in SIP in large cap
Ans: Investing in large-cap mutual funds through SIP is a stable choice. These funds focus on established companies with strong financials. They offer consistent growth with lower risk compared to mid-cap and small-cap funds.

Let’s assess how to select the right fund.

Why Large-Cap Funds for Five Years?
Invest in top companies with proven stability.

Less volatile than mid-cap and small-cap funds.

Suitable for a five-year investment horizon.

Provide inflation-beating returns over time.

Ideal for steady compounding with SIP investments.

Actively Managed vs. Index Funds
Actively managed funds outperform index funds in varying market conditions.

Fund managers adjust portfolios based on market trends.

Index funds only replicate the market and cannot outperform it.

Actively managed funds provide better downside protection.

For five-year investments, active management ensures stable performance.

Choosing the Right Fund
Look for funds with a history of stable returns.

Ensure the fund has an experienced fund manager.

Avoid funds with frequent manager changes.

Select funds with lower expense ratios among actively managed ones.

Check the rolling returns of the fund, not just past performance.

Tax Considerations
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) taxed at 20%.

SIP investments held for over one year qualify for LTCG benefits.

Plan withdrawals strategically to reduce tax burden.

Final Insights
Large-cap mutual funds are suitable for stable returns over five years. They balance risk and reward effectively. Choose an actively managed fund with strong historical performance. Stay invested with SIPs for disciplined wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 01, 2025Hindi
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Money
Sir...I am 56 years old. I want to take voluntary resignation. I will get 45000 as monthly pension and Rs.75 lacs as lumpsum. I have own house and only son is working in TCS. Can i take VRS????
Ans: Your situation is strong. You have a stable pension, a lumpsum amount, and no housing worries. Your son is financially independent. Let’s evaluate your decision from all angles.

Monthly Cash Flow Analysis
You will receive Rs. 45,000 per month as a pension.

Your expenses must be assessed. If your monthly spending is less than Rs. 45,000, then pension alone can cover your needs.

If expenses are higher, you will need an income from your Rs. 75L corpus.

Inflation will increase costs over time. Your pension may not grow, so investment returns should outpace inflation.

Emergency Fund Planning
Keep at least 12 months of expenses in a safe place.

Use a combination of a bank savings account and a liquid mutual fund.

Avoid locking all your funds in long-term investments.

Investment Strategy for Rs. 75L
You must structure investments to generate income, ensure growth, and manage risk.

Allocate funds into mutual funds for long-term growth.

Use Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) for steady income.

Diversify across large-cap, flexicap, and hybrid mutual funds.

Consider debt funds for stability.

Avoid high-risk sectoral/thematic funds for income needs.

Tax Efficiency
Pension is taxable as per your income tax slab.

Mutual fund withdrawals are taxed based on duration and type.

Keep SWP withdrawals below the taxable limit to minimize tax burden.

Use tax-saving instruments like PPF and senior citizen savings schemes if applicable.

Health Insurance and Medical Planning
Ensure you have a good health insurance plan.

A cover of Rs. 15-20L is advisable for senior years.

Maintain a separate emergency fund for medical needs.

Consider critical illness insurance for major health risks.

Estate Planning and Will Creation
Create a will to ensure smooth asset transfer.

Appoint a nominee for all investments and bank accounts.

Discuss future financial plans with your son.

Final Insights
Taking VRS is a viable option for you. Your pension provides a steady income. Your Rs. 75L can be invested wisely to support future needs. Focus on structured investments, tax efficiency, and health security. If planned well, this decision can give financial stability and peace of mind.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |2159 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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