Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lifestyle. Show all posts
Run for your life
We’re living in a ready-get-set-go era. It is not surprising that running as a sport has become popular. Although our ancestors took to their heels whenever they had to resort to the flight response (as opposed to fight), civilisation and the sedentary lifestyle of subsequent periods slowed us down. Being acclimatised to speed of a different kind today, even the exercise regimen that some of us choose has picked up momentum and reflects the times that we live in
Why are people running?
The many running clubs that have sprouted — from Runners for Life to Nike Run Club, Chennai Runners, Dream Runners, Delhi Runners, Hash House Harriers (who define themselves as a drinking club with a running problem), Runner Girls International — organise regular events, keep interest levels high and facilitate sharing of notes. This has further peaked with marathons in various cities and corporate-led events, like Citizen’s Run, to raise funds for social causes.
Given all the endorphins and feel-good hormones that are released during a good exercise regimen, one tends to agree with actor, activist and entrepreneur Gul Panag who equates running to happiness. With 16 half-marathons behind her in the 18 years since she began running, her initial reluctance is now a thing of the past. “Within the first six months I was running two miles. I felt better and was a happier kid. I fared better in physical fitness tests and beat most of the boys hollow, except two: a national basketball player and a national swimmer,”
Why are people running?
The many running clubs that have sprouted — from Runners for Life to Nike Run Club, Chennai Runners, Dream Runners, Delhi Runners, Hash House Harriers (who define themselves as a drinking club with a running problem), Runner Girls International — organise regular events, keep interest levels high and facilitate sharing of notes. This has further peaked with marathons in various cities and corporate-led events, like Citizen’s Run, to raise funds for social causes.
Given all the endorphins and feel-good hormones that are released during a good exercise regimen, one tends to agree with actor, activist and entrepreneur Gul Panag who equates running to happiness. With 16 half-marathons behind her in the 18 years since she began running, her initial reluctance is now a thing of the past. “Within the first six months I was running two miles. I felt better and was a happier kid. I fared better in physical fitness tests and beat most of the boys hollow, except two: a national basketball player and a national swimmer,”
Industrialist Arun Krishnan — who has run two major marathons (Chicago and Berlin) and is gearing up for three others (London, New York and Boston) — says, “Running is the best stress buster ever. Initially one wakes up with great reluctance and trudges grudgingly to the venue. But after the first few strides, the feeling is one of sheer exhilaration. A good run has a calming effect, which lasts for much of the day.” He should know; he has been running for 35 years now.
For Gayathre Rajam, yoga teacher, tri-athlete and entrepreneur, running with music “is like meditation. It brings a sense of inner peace. To me, running is tougher than cycling or swimming. It helps improve my fitness, maintain my weight and keeps me in a good mood.”
But there are negatives too. Dr. Nitiraj Oberoi, Consultant, Orthopaedics and Sports Surgery, Fortis Hospitals, New Delhi, says, “Runners suffer from stress fractures of the foot, shins, knee, hip and groin besides foot tendonitis, bursitis of the knee and pelvis. This causes difficulty in walking and sitting. Also there is the likelihood of aggravating existing lumbar disc problems.” Dr. Kannan Pugazhendi adds, “Running injuries are not due to a single event and require many days of repeated stress.”
Most running injuries happen due to poor conditioning, over-ambitious running schedules, bad foot positioning during impact, bad or worn out shoes and hard running surfaces. Running shoes need proper heel counter support and pronation prevention. Also one should not run on concrete surfaces. Running on a treadmill is not advised as there is a higher incidence of stress injuries.
Though proper running shoes are important some people have opted to run barefoot. Dr. Gladson Johnson, Bangalore-based sports physiotherapist who has run full marathons on bare feet, says, “You cannot make the transition overnight but have to train for at least 18-20 months as the mechanics of bare feet running are different.
For Gayathre Rajam, yoga teacher, tri-athlete and entrepreneur, running with music “is like meditation. It brings a sense of inner peace. To me, running is tougher than cycling or swimming. It helps improve my fitness, maintain my weight and keeps me in a good mood.”
But there are negatives too. Dr. Nitiraj Oberoi, Consultant, Orthopaedics and Sports Surgery, Fortis Hospitals, New Delhi, says, “Runners suffer from stress fractures of the foot, shins, knee, hip and groin besides foot tendonitis, bursitis of the knee and pelvis. This causes difficulty in walking and sitting. Also there is the likelihood of aggravating existing lumbar disc problems.” Dr. Kannan Pugazhendi adds, “Running injuries are not due to a single event and require many days of repeated stress.”
Most running injuries happen due to poor conditioning, over-ambitious running schedules, bad foot positioning during impact, bad or worn out shoes and hard running surfaces. Running shoes need proper heel counter support and pronation prevention. Also one should not run on concrete surfaces. Running on a treadmill is not advised as there is a higher incidence of stress injuries.
Though proper running shoes are important some people have opted to run barefoot. Dr. Gladson Johnson, Bangalore-based sports physiotherapist who has run full marathons on bare feet, says, “You cannot make the transition overnight but have to train for at least 18-20 months as the mechanics of bare feet running are different.
First practice barefoot walking, then barefoot jogging on grass, mud and hard terrains and get a feel of different surfaces. If not, there is a chance of serious injury to the ankle, foot, knee, lower back and neck. The older one is, the longer it takes to adjust. Intensive stretches (of the toes, ankles, arches, plantar fascia or connective tissue on the sole of the foot, calf muscles, shin muscles), strengthening of the core muscles around the waist will help develop a good foot. The bottom line is that the end technique of running is highly individualised since different people have different types of feet: flat feet, arch feet, pronated feet and bird feet.”
Overcoming injuries
Yoga is Gayathre’s secret. “It helps me stay injury free.” Arun Krishnan points out, “With proper training one can minimise injuries but not avoid them altogether. The probability of injury increases with age, hence it is important to pay heed to and attend to niggles before they develop into injuries.” RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) is his mantra. “After every run I strap cold packs on my knees and other joints.”
According to Dr. Oberoi, rest is the best treatment followed by improved technique. “Physiotherapy works for tendinitis and bursitis only. Persistent pain that does not abate after 4-5 days rest and returns after every run means it is time to see the doctor. Dr. Pughazendi also warns, “Any form of chest discomfort or pain, numbness in the little finger or pain in the left arm could point to cardiac issues.”
For those tempted to sign up for a marathon, Dr. Oberoi has some advice: One needs to prepare for over 10 months. If not a marathon, try brisk walking and power walking.” Adds Dr. Johnson, “Long distance running is a mind-body game. The tougher you are, the better your chances of reaching the finish line.”
And for those taking baby steps, Gayathre Rajam says, “Start running slowly. Don’t attempt to conquer mountains on day one. Walk 10 steps and run 10 steps. Slowly increase the steps you run. Before you know it you will be able to run 10 km non-stop.”
Simple tips
Have a proper warm up and cool down routine.
Running shoes should be changed once in 6-8 months depending on mileage. Do not use running shoes as casual wear.
Do not increase running distance suddenly. If doing so give the body time to recover.
A proper cool down, aqua therapy and ice rub on sore areas immediately after the run are essential.
Have a snack, if not a meal, within one hour of the run.
Replace fluids during the run. Check weight before and after the run to how much fluid to replace (1kg = 1litre).
Do not ignore pain. Listen to what your body’s signals.
The right technique
Use the full feet to run, making contact with the heel and rolling it forward to take off from the ball of the toes. The contact with the ground should produce minimum sound.
Running on the toes increases the impact loading and is essential only for sprinting.
Unnecessary movements of the neck and trunk should be avoided and shoulder movement should be minimal.
Proper warm up, stretching, avoiding sudden progression of distance and adequate recovery time are all crucial to prevent injuries.
Overcoming injuries
Yoga is Gayathre’s secret. “It helps me stay injury free.” Arun Krishnan points out, “With proper training one can minimise injuries but not avoid them altogether. The probability of injury increases with age, hence it is important to pay heed to and attend to niggles before they develop into injuries.” RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) is his mantra. “After every run I strap cold packs on my knees and other joints.”
According to Dr. Oberoi, rest is the best treatment followed by improved technique. “Physiotherapy works for tendinitis and bursitis only. Persistent pain that does not abate after 4-5 days rest and returns after every run means it is time to see the doctor. Dr. Pughazendi also warns, “Any form of chest discomfort or pain, numbness in the little finger or pain in the left arm could point to cardiac issues.”
For those tempted to sign up for a marathon, Dr. Oberoi has some advice: One needs to prepare for over 10 months. If not a marathon, try brisk walking and power walking.” Adds Dr. Johnson, “Long distance running is a mind-body game. The tougher you are, the better your chances of reaching the finish line.”
And for those taking baby steps, Gayathre Rajam says, “Start running slowly. Don’t attempt to conquer mountains on day one. Walk 10 steps and run 10 steps. Slowly increase the steps you run. Before you know it you will be able to run 10 km non-stop.”
Simple tips
Have a proper warm up and cool down routine.
Running shoes should be changed once in 6-8 months depending on mileage. Do not use running shoes as casual wear.
Do not increase running distance suddenly. If doing so give the body time to recover.
A proper cool down, aqua therapy and ice rub on sore areas immediately after the run are essential.
Have a snack, if not a meal, within one hour of the run.
Replace fluids during the run. Check weight before and after the run to how much fluid to replace (1kg = 1litre).
Do not ignore pain. Listen to what your body’s signals.
The right technique
Use the full feet to run, making contact with the heel and rolling it forward to take off from the ball of the toes. The contact with the ground should produce minimum sound.
Running on the toes increases the impact loading and is essential only for sprinting.
Unnecessary movements of the neck and trunk should be avoided and shoulder movement should be minimal.
Proper warm up, stretching, avoiding sudden progression of distance and adequate recovery time are all crucial to prevent injuries.
Scientists decode why Einstein was a genius
According to the study led by Florida State University evolutionary anthropologist Dean Falk, portions of Einstein's brain have been found to be unlike those of most people and could be related to his extraordinary cognitive abilities.
Falk and his colleagues describe for the first time the entire cerebral cortex of Einstein's brain from an examination of 14 recently discovered photographs.
The researchers compared Einstein's brain to 85 "normal" human brains and, in light of current functional imaging studies, interpreted its unusual features.
"Although the overall size and asymmetrical shape of Einstein's brain were normal, the prefrontal, somatosensory, primary motor, parietal, temporal and occipital cortices were extraordinary.
"These may have provided the neurological underpinnings for some of his visuospatial and mathematical abilities, for instance," said Falk. The study was published in the journal Brain. On Einstein's death in 1955, his brain was removed and photographed from multiple angles with the permission of his family. Furthermore, it was sectioned into 240 blocks from which histological slides were prepared.
A great majority of the photographs, blocks and slides were lost from public sight for more than 55 years. The 14 photographs used by the researchers now are held by the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
The study also published the "roadmap" to Einstein's brain prepared in 1955 by Dr Thomas Harvey to illustrate the locations within his previously whole brain of 240 dissected blocks of tissue, which provides a key to locating the origins within the brain of the newly emerged histological slides.
5 Natural tips to prevent hair loss
1. Hot oil treatments: Take any natural oil - olive, coconut, canola - and heat it up so that it is warm, but not too hot. Massage it gently into your scalp. Put on a shower cap and leave it on for an hour, then shampoo your hair.
2. Natural juices: You can rub your scalp with either garlic juice, onion juice or ginger juice. Leave it on overnight and wash it thoroughly in the morning.
3. Get a head massage: Massaging your scalp for a few minutes daily will help stimulate circulation. Good circulation in the scalp keeps hair follicles active. Circulation may be improved through massage by using a few drops of lavender or bay essential oil in an almond or sesame oil base.
4. Antioxidants: Apply warm green tea (two bags brewed in one cup of water) on your scalp and leave this mixture on for an hour and then rinse. Green tea contains antioxidants which prevent hair loss and boost hair growth.
5. Practice meditation: Believe it or not, most of the times, the root cause for hair loss is stress and tension. Meditation can help in reducing that and restore hormonal balance.
sunglasses that bring daylight on dark gloomy days
The glasses use 6 light emitting diodes that produce a powerful light field that is reflected into the eyes by a curved reflector, and are powered by two AAA batteries.
Described as “a calorie-free, substance-free way” to lighten mood the 54-pound-glasses are designed to be worn by people while they go about their morning routine, as they do not obscure the field of vision, the paper added.
The makers of the odd glasses claim that wearing the glasses for up to half hour a day will mean “you’ll have much more energy during those long, dark winter months.”
Ways to do up your bathroom
Here are a few must-haves in your bathroom:
- A bottle of mouthwash.
-A set of clean hand towels.
- Facial tissues (in a decorative dispenser).
- A tube of hand-lotion and moisturizer.
- A non-skid mat in the tub or shower area.
- A night-light so that guests don't have to fumble for the light switch in the dark.
- A hair dryer and an assortment of clean hair brushes.
- Apart from the regular wall mirror, place a mirror with one magnified side and one regular side on the bathroom counter.
- Clean unused towels on the towel bar.
- A fresh new roll of toilet paper and a back-up roll in the cabinet.
- A small supply of feminine hygiene products should be stored out of sight, but in an easy-to-find place.
- Extra unused toothbrushes.
- At least one wastebasket.
5 healthy Indian soups for winter
1. Pepper Rasam
Winters are synonymous with common cold
and cough. Besides right medication, it is imperative to consume
comforting and effective foods. The spices in Pepper Rasam help in
digestion and soothe your senses, and therefore is a perfect recipe for
incessant sneezes and running nose.
Ingredients
100 gm Tomato
50 gm Tamarind
1 tsp Whole black pepper
1 tsp Cumin seeds
2 Cloves of garlic
2 gm Turmeric powder
Few curry leaves
Salt to taste
1 gm Coriander leaves
750 ml Water
Seasoning
10 gm Ghee
2 gm Mustard seeds
1 gm Curry leaves
2 gm Red chilli whole
Method
1. Soak the tamarind in a cup of warm water, extract its juice and throw away the pulp. Grind cumin seeds, pepper and garlic for a few seconds in a mixer.
2. Take a cup of tamarind extract, add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, crushed pepper, cumin, garlic, salt and curry leaves. Boil them together.
3. Once it starts boiling, keep the flame low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the raw smell of the tamarind goes off.
4. Heat a tsp of ghee and add mustard seeds to it. When it begins to splutter, add the red chilli, curry leaves and pour it over the Rasam.
2. Lemon Coriander Soup
Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C,
which in turn helps build immunity from cold and cough during winters.
Relax with a bowl of hot Lemon Coriander Soup in the evening for a
comforting experience.
Ingredients
50 gm Chinese cabbage
25 gm Carrots
20 gm Spinach
25 gm Mushroom
15 gm Fresh coriander
Salt to taste
5 gm White pepper
40 gm Lemon
800 ml Water
A coriander sprig to garnish
Method
1. Cut all the vegetables into triangles, blanch and refresh.
2. Prepare coriander stock with fresh coriander and water.
3. Remove coriander from it and add blanched vegetables to it.
4. Add cleaned de-veined prawns cut in to dices.
5. Add salt, lemon juice and white pepper. Serve hot!
3. Khumb Nimbu Ka Ras
The nutrients in mushrooms are different from those of other vegetables
and provide the B group vitamins, especially riboflavin (B2), niacin
(B3), folate, pantothenic acid and biotin. Mushrooms also contain
Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin that helps keep bones strong and fights disease. Khumb Nimbu Ka Ras is a brilliant concoction of health and flavour!
Ingredients
250 gm Mushroom
25 gm Desi ghee
30 gm Garlic
20 gm Fresh cream
50 gm Onion
30 gm Spring onion
Salt to taste
30 gm Lemon
5 gm Fresh coriander
750 ml Water
For garnish
2 gm sauteed and dried mushrooms
1 gm coriander
Method
1. Heat desi ghee in a pan, add mushroom and cook till it gets dry.
2. Remove mushroom from pan, and add garlic, onion in the same oil, and saute.
3. Add mushrooms, water and bring it to a boil.
4. Set seasoning, add spring onion, cream and serve hot!
4. Murgh Makkai Shorba
Corn is an excellent source of dietary fibre and potassium and baby
corn kernels are an excellent source of folate. When teamed with
chicken, Murgh Makkai Shorba makes for a soup rich in health as well as
taste.
Ingredients
1 litre Chicken stock
150 gm Corn
25 gm Garlic
25 gm Fresh coriander
15 gm Cumin seeds
Salt to taste
5 gm Turmeric
30 gm Oil
30 gm Chicken breast
For garnish
5 gm Diced chicken
Coriander sprigs
Method
1. Heat oil in a pan, add garlic and cumin seeds. Wait till they crackle.
2. Add chopped garlic and saute. Add corn paste and cook.
3. Add chicken stock and cook, adjust seasoning.
4. Serve hot and garnish with chopped coriander, and chicken dices.
5. Carrot and Beetroot Shorba
While Beetroot is rich in nutrients like calcium, potassium, iron,
folic acid, fiber and anti-oxidants, carrots are an excellent source of
vitamin A. Beetroot also has natural properties of cleaning the kidneys
and gall bladder. The deeper the orange colour of a carrot, the higher
is the beta carotene content. Carrot and Beetroot Shorba is excellent
for children as it benefits their vision, skin and immune system.
Ingredients
300 gm Carrot
300 gm Beet root
20 gm Ginger
5 gm Bay leaf
5 gm Green chilly
20 gm Fresh coriander
20 ml Oil
8 Cumin (whole)
750 ml Water
Salt to taste
For garnish
2 gm Beetroot
2 gm Carrot
Method
1. Heat oil. Add bay leaf, cumin and ginger to it. Saute for 1 minute.
2. Add carrot, beetroot and green chillies. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add water. Once it starts to boil, strain and make a puree of it. Adjust the seasoning.
4. Strain the puree and adjust seasoning again. Garnish it with diced beetroot and carrots. Serve hot!
Ingredients
100 gm Tomato
50 gm Tamarind
1 tsp Whole black pepper
1 tsp Cumin seeds
2 Cloves of garlic
2 gm Turmeric powder
Few curry leaves
Salt to taste
1 gm Coriander leaves
750 ml Water
Seasoning
10 gm Ghee
2 gm Mustard seeds
1 gm Curry leaves
2 gm Red chilli whole
Method
1. Soak the tamarind in a cup of warm water, extract its juice and throw away the pulp. Grind cumin seeds, pepper and garlic for a few seconds in a mixer.
2. Take a cup of tamarind extract, add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, crushed pepper, cumin, garlic, salt and curry leaves. Boil them together.
3. Once it starts boiling, keep the flame low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the raw smell of the tamarind goes off.
4. Heat a tsp of ghee and add mustard seeds to it. When it begins to splutter, add the red chilli, curry leaves and pour it over the Rasam.
2. Lemon Coriander Soup
Ingredients
50 gm Chinese cabbage
25 gm Carrots
20 gm Spinach
25 gm Mushroom
15 gm Fresh coriander
Salt to taste
5 gm White pepper
40 gm Lemon
800 ml Water
A coriander sprig to garnish
Method
1. Cut all the vegetables into triangles, blanch and refresh.
2. Prepare coriander stock with fresh coriander and water.
3. Remove coriander from it and add blanched vegetables to it.
4. Add cleaned de-veined prawns cut in to dices.
5. Add salt, lemon juice and white pepper. Serve hot!
3. Khumb Nimbu Ka Ras
Ingredients
250 gm Mushroom
25 gm Desi ghee
30 gm Garlic
20 gm Fresh cream
50 gm Onion
30 gm Spring onion
Salt to taste
30 gm Lemon
5 gm Fresh coriander
750 ml Water
For garnish
2 gm sauteed and dried mushrooms
1 gm coriander
Method
1. Heat desi ghee in a pan, add mushroom and cook till it gets dry.
2. Remove mushroom from pan, and add garlic, onion in the same oil, and saute.
3. Add mushrooms, water and bring it to a boil.
4. Set seasoning, add spring onion, cream and serve hot!
4. Murgh Makkai Shorba
Ingredients
1 litre Chicken stock
150 gm Corn
25 gm Garlic
25 gm Fresh coriander
15 gm Cumin seeds
Salt to taste
5 gm Turmeric
30 gm Oil
30 gm Chicken breast
For garnish
5 gm Diced chicken
Coriander sprigs
Method
1. Heat oil in a pan, add garlic and cumin seeds. Wait till they crackle.
2. Add chopped garlic and saute. Add corn paste and cook.
3. Add chicken stock and cook, adjust seasoning.
4. Serve hot and garnish with chopped coriander, and chicken dices.
5. Carrot and Beetroot Shorba
Ingredients
300 gm Carrot
300 gm Beet root
20 gm Ginger
5 gm Bay leaf
5 gm Green chilly
20 gm Fresh coriander
20 ml Oil
8 Cumin (whole)
750 ml Water
Salt to taste
For garnish
2 gm Beetroot
2 gm Carrot
Method
1. Heat oil. Add bay leaf, cumin and ginger to it. Saute for 1 minute.
2. Add carrot, beetroot and green chillies. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add water. Once it starts to boil, strain and make a puree of it. Adjust the seasoning.
4. Strain the puree and adjust seasoning again. Garnish it with diced beetroot and carrots. Serve hot!
Scrubs and face packs for a glowing skin
2. Oatmeal cinnamon scrub: Suitable to all skin types this organic scrub rich with antioxidant and protein benefits is very good for the cells of your skin and can give you instant glow . Mix 1 tbsp of dark brown sugar, oatmeal flour, ½ tbsp milk and a pinch of cinnamon. Make a thick paste and massage it well onto your face for a smooth skin. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash your face with cold water.
3. Green tea scrub: This scrub is suited for dry, normal and combination skin types. To exfoliate your skin to ward off dead cells and get a fresh glowing skin you need to mix 3 tbsp of green tea, 2 tbsp of brown sugar and 1 tbsp of a nourishing cream. Apply this paste and leave it on for 15 minutes. Scrub your face in gentle circular motions while removing the paste and then wash it off with cold water. See yourself transformed with this scrub.
4. Get that fresh look: Mix 1 egg white, ¼ cup of whole milk, 2 tbsp of baking soda and ½ a cup of water in a small bowl and blend well. Refrigerate it for a short while and then take a small amount onto a wet washcloth; gently massage it on your skin. After 10 minutes rinse well with warm water and pat dry your skin.
5. Jojoba oil moisturiser: Jojoba oil has some very distinguishing properties which will result in a beautiful glowing skin. Natural oils like Jojoba often contain anti-ageing nutrients that help repair damaged skin and prevent further damage. Apply the oil as a moisturiser with deep circular motions and let your skin absorb the smoothness of it.
6. Buttery delight: Shea butter is a thick, creamy oil that comes from the shea tree; it is widely used as a moisturiser. Get the buttery smoothness by rubbing shea butter onto your skin as it forms a barrier between the elements and your skin while sealing the moisture inside your skin. Shea butter is widely recommended by natural therapists for its ability to heal scar tissue produced by stretch marks and hyper-pigmentation.
7. Almond facial mask: Soak almonds overnight and take their skin off the next morning and grind them into a paste; while making the paste add rose water to it. Apply onto the skin and let it dry for 20 minutes. Gently wipe off the mask with a damp wash cloth or rinse with lukewarm water.
Floral decoration for a housewarming party
You can never go wrong with floral decoration. A popular decoration tool, flowers not only enliven the place with their presence but also add fragrance to the ambience. Flowers chosen in combination such as lilies and daisies or carnations and roses are a great way to make the place blissful.
Use unusual methods
Place single blooms in shot glasses on the bar. Place bunches of cheery daisies or tulips in plastic sand pails from the toy store. Herb or eucalyptus bouquets are especially fragrant and pretty in hallways and bathrooms. The louder the decoration, the more the focus shifts away from your new house. Now, that is something you wouldn't want to happen; after all, you have spent a large portion of your hard-earned money for the house.
Choose a theme
It's the first time your relatives, colleagues and friends are seeing your new apartment, so right from the sitting area to the bedroom, everything should be well decorated. You can also choose a colour theme. For instance, if you have chosen green, decorate your house with green cushions, green streamers, green sheets, green covers and plants.
Keep the time in mind
If you have invited people over for lunch or dinner, make sure the table is laid out beautifully. Have a floral centerpiece and even if you are using paper plates and disposable glasses, arrange them neatly. If the party is in the evening, make sure your house has proper lighting. This will help you accentuate the beauty of your new home without much effort.
Pay attention to detail
Your entrance needs a masterpiece, just the way a great story needs an excellent title. Vastu say that there must be a mirror in front of the main gate as soon as you enter a home and what better to accompany the mirror than a pair of orchids? It adds warmth to the feel of the decor.
Candles spread across the house add a nice touch. Put some cinnamon sticks and orange slices in a pot of water on the stove to let off a sweet fragrance. Place bouquets on the dining room table, bedside tables and a low arrangement for the living area. One idea is to order one large arrangement from the florist and handpick a selection of smaller blooms you can cut for smaller vessels for areas like the bathroom. If you choose well, it will be inexpensive and elegant. For instance, a single peony floating in a decorative bowl will class up the bathroom, while a handful of red tulips will bring a party-perfect pop of colour to the bedroom.
Keep the decor simple
People don't really expect a properly decorated venue, since they know you have just shifted and are in no position to decorate for a housewarming party. So, go simple on the decor. Just relax and bask in the glory of the new house and, of course, enjoy the party!
Karva Chauth
The Time:
This festival comes 9 days before Diwali on 'kartik ki chauth', i.e., on the fourth day of the new moon immediately after Dusshera, in the month of 'Karthik' (October-November).
The Meaning:
The term 'Chauth' means the 'fourth day' and 'Karwa' is an earthen pot with a spout - a symbol of peace and prosperity - that is necessary for the rituals. Hence the name 'Karwa Chauth'.
The Ritual:
Married women keep a strict fast and do not take even a drop of water. They get up early in the morning, perform their ablutions, and wear new and festive raiment. Shiva, Parvati and their son Kartikeya are worshiped on this day along with the 10 'karwas' (earthen pots) filled with sweets. The Karwas are given to daughters and sisters along with gifts.
The Fast:
It is the most important and difficult fast observed by married Hindu women. (Unmarried women, widows, and spinsters are barred from observing this fast.) It begins before sunrise and ends only after offering prayers and worshiping the moon at night. No food or water can be taken after sunrise. The fast is broken once the moon is sighted and rituals of the day have been performed. At night when the moon appears, women break their fast after offering water to the moon.
The Custom:
In the evening, women dress up in special clothes, usually a red or pink sari or 'lehenga-choli' with gold woven 'zari' patterns. New brides often wear their bridal costume. All deck up in jewelry and wear 'mehendi' or henna patterns especially on the hands. Decorative 'bindis' on the forehead are a must for all women taking part in this celebration. Fasting women from all over the neighborhood gather in a group and narrate mythological stories that underscore the significance of Karwa Chauth. And, of course, all wives expect lavish gifts from their husbands!
The fast of Karwa Chawth truly sets the merry tone of the fun and frolic, festivity and feasting that come in good measure during Diwali — the biggest festival of the Hindus.
Baking smell makes people nicer
French psychologists said that shoppers are more likely to alert a passer-by who has dropped something if at the time they are passing near a bakery.
Researchers at the University of Southern Brittany recruited eight men and women and told them to stand outside either a bakery or a boutique.
They were then asked to step out in front of a passing shopper and “accidentally” drop a handkerchief, packet of tissues or a glove. To be sure of their findings, the experiment was repeated 400 times. And the results were revealing.
When items were dropped outside a bakery, 77 percent of passers-by rushed to pick up the item.
However, only 52 percent bothered to help outside the boutique.
Enticing food odours brings out the altruism in the best of us.
Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week
A model displays a creation by Gauri n Nainika.
A model displays a creation by Aneeth Arora.
A model displays a creation by Aneeth Arora.
A model displays a creation by Ashish n Soni.
Designer Gaurav Gupta poses for a quick click with his models.
A model walks down the ramp in a Gaurav Gupta creation.
A model walks down the ramp in a Gaurav Gupta creation.
10 basic beauty tips for women
Some are born beautiful and others grow to become beautiful. Looking healthy and attractive is everyone's dream, regardless of age group. Since lifestyle and skincare contribute a lot to your looks, here's some advice to keep in mind.
1. Wash your face regularly
Wash your face at least twice a day (but no more than thrice) with a cleanser that suits your skin. Select your cleanser depending upon your skin type (dry, oily, normal or combination). You can also choose aloe-vera for cleansing. Be careful not to cleanse too often. Also, never wash your face with water that's hot or too cold, as both can cause broken capillaries
2. Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliation helps replenish the required oils of the body and removes dry, dead skin cells and dirt from the face. Try to exfoliate at least once or twice a week. You can also opt to cleanse your face on a regular basis.3. Moisturise
A basic law of beauty is that everyone, no
matter what skin type, should moisturise. As it is important to maintain
the skin's moisture content, you should use a moisturiser daily. Even
more special care should be taken in winters, as the skin tends to
become dry fast because of the cold. So in winter, you should massage
your body twice or thrice a day with moisturiser.
4. Don't forget sunscreen
Sunscreen is probably the most essential component of one's skincare regimen. Wrinkles, which are the number one sign of aging, are triggered by sun exposure. So it is essential to make use of sunscreen from your early years. Don't forget sunscreen even in winter and on cloudy days.5. Protect your lips
Chapped lips can be your worst nightmare.
They hurt a lot and they don't look good. You should apply a lip balm or
oil or gel on your lips so that they won't chap out.
6. Use a humidifier
A humidifier will help regain smoothness of the skin. In winters, the skin becomes drier, so a humidifier becomes necessary.7. Get enough sleep
If you are sleep-deprived, your skin will look
sallow, dull, tired and saggy. A well-disciplined routine and at least
seven to eight hours of sleep every night are important for good skin.
8. Drink lots of water
Water is of prime importance to maintain good
health and overall cleansing. It is recommended that you drink at least
seven to eight glasses a day to keep your skin hydrated.
9. A healthy diet
Your diet also affects the skin, especially the
vitamins that you consume. You should eat vitamin-rich food items such
as oats, avocado, other fruits and vegetables. Concentrate on vitamins A
and E in proper amounts. Stay away from oily, greasy food as it can
lead to the onset of pimples.
10. Exercise regularly
Exercising makes you sweat a lot and in the
process your skin cleans itself. It also helps you excrete waste and
take in fresh oxygen.
JAYA MISRA TO DESIGN FOR PRESTIGIOUS FEMINA MISS INDIA 2013
JAYA MISRA TO DESIGN FOR PRESTIGIOUS FEMINA MISS INDIA 2013
After burgeoning her reputation as the official designer for the Femina
Miss India 2012 where PFMI Earth Prachi Mishra and PFMI International
Rochelle Maria Rao sashayed her designs on the runway, ace designer Jaya
Misra has grabbed this brand opportunity for the second consecutive
year in Pond's Femina Miss India 2013, which also turns 50 this year.
"It's an incredible feeling this time, all the more because the prestigious pageant that has created big names in the Bollywood, also has given an opportunity to get associated with it for the second time in a row. The title is also entering into its fiftieth year of excellence. So there has to be something very special in its appearance.
In keeping with the Femina Miss India content that offers something different every time, Jaya Misra has carved her creative niche with a wonderful fusion of nature and modernity for this year's mega show. Since the country's most prestigious beauty pageant Pond's Femina Miss India 2013 is entering into its glorious fifty years, the designer is lending her inner creative resilience to transform the ramp into a dream destination for the aspiring young beauties. The fiftieth edition of the grand affair will see Jaya Misra's best designs in natural hues and styles that defines Indian woman in its perfect femininity. The beauty cauldron will be seen sashaying the runway in Jaya Misra ensembles drawing from vast color palettes like emerald green, stunning black and emulsifying off white shades.
The elegant designs will capture the exquisite embellishments on Red Gowns giving an international appeal and with Black Cocktails being the Centre of attraction in the Pond's Femina Miss India Pune 2013.
Red Gowns :
Red is a color of compassion and also war, it is the cupid and also the devil. It symbolizes power, health, energy, excitement. Luxurious fabrics like Chiffon, French lace, Stretchable Satin, and Net and the detail touch of Silver-Swarovski elements are used for the Red Coral Gown, making it more classier and elegant.
Black Cocktail :
Drawing inspiration from the Mother Nature, the couture has been given the boldness of Black. The fabrics dominantly use synthetic and lycra with the fine touch of silver brooches lending a unique ornamental appeal to the garments. Close-fitting and off-shoulder cuts on the mysterious black further add to the sense of charm and poise.
Be careful, anti-ageing products harm your skin
Not withstanding the fact that many such creams, gels and other products are medically proved to yield good results, doctors say that they should still be taken under medical supervision because sometimes the results can be disastrous - and one may actually invite a host of harmful side effects in the bargain.
"The lure of anti-ageing creams lies in the fact that they are seemingly less complicated than a cosmetic surgery, a botox treatment or some other procedure in the ultimate run to regain a youthful look. It's also less expensive.
"But what people forget is that one's skin is very specific to a person and you cannot expect the same results for everyone. While some creams do give visible results, there are also cases in which the skin texture of a person has changed over prolonged use of a particular product that didn't suit her.
Some products are medically proved to increase the glow of the skin and rejuvenate. For instance, lactic acid in a product can have some good effects. But it should not be more than two percent in the product composition. Then, peptide in mixed serums is good, and so is alpha hydroxy acid.
Some of the products that form a part of the composition of anti-ageing products, like hyaluronic acid, are used by dermatologists in procedures.
"Injecting hyaluronic acid has a collagen stimulating effect that helps in removing wrinkles. Some serums contain this. Similarly, vitamin C preparations improve pigmentation.
One should be careful before trying an anti-ageing product because there are many factors at play. For instance, your skin type - there is dry , oily, normal and combination skin, and the same product may not be suitable for all.
Your hormonal balance is another crucial factor.
"There are certain creams recommended for pre-menopausal women, when the hormonal balance is disturbed. The age bracket therefore is the late 30s to 40s. Also, if you have any endocrine problem, you may need certain creams.
But please don't blindly follow any advertisement that tells you to go for such products when you are nearing 30, or be guided by the brand or price of a product - if you are healthy, your body will take care of your skin's needs.
Warning against ads that show western women and men, he further said that their skin texture is different from Indians' and therefore similar results should not be expected.
"Ultimately, these creams contain chemicals and can even change the tissue texture. Further, if it doesn't suit you, it may be carcinogenic in the long run.
Harping on the fact that anti-ageing creams should be used under supervision, Some more possible side effects: "Over-usage of such creams can cause acne, and a dependency can lead to rashes. The skin can also become thin, over a period, such that blood vessels can be seen".
Cosmetic physician said it is best to leave it to an expert to recommend the right cream, because as per one's need, this may be best used at day or night and some extra care may have to be taken.
"Applying the wrong product, or the right one in wrong quantity, can lead to reactions like dryness, rash and pigmentation. Putting on lots of cream does not mean faster results, Cautioned both women and men. Almost 30 percent of those who seek anti-ageing remedial measures are men.
"Sometimes some creams can also be photosensitive, cosmetic and plastic surgeon in Kolkata, which means that they will react when exposed to the sun.
Offering some advice on skin care, That inflammation is one of the causes of ageing; hence the skin should be kept soothed. "Wash your face with cold water and use calamine if it irritates or goes red. Also post sun-exposure care is important".
"Ultimately, ageing is a biological process, and one should remember that all these products and procedures can only delay the process. But it is inevitable.
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