Author: Juhi Patil

Stunning Eco Friendly Hotels in India!

Heard of eco friendly hotels? No? Okay, here’s what you should know and enjoy about these spectacular and breath taking places, other than their eco-friendliness of course. These hotels are very much in India and worthwhile for you to make beautiful family memories. They hardly lack anything that a normal hotel can provide you with. In fact, their luxury will stun you. Besides, you get the feel of being in Mother Nature’s embrace without doing much harm to the surroundings. Here are some of the beautiful destinations that will make your vacation a huge success to be remembered!

1.The Park –Hyderabad

One of the most majestic hotels in Hyderabad, The Park is a collection of luxury hotels that symbolize Hyderabad’s traditions and history. As we know, Hyderabad is the capital of textiles and gems, the Park reminds us of the royal Nizam’s era. The ambiance of this place takes you centuries back. Kismet and the Carbon are well known from the Park and it’s hard to miss its marvelous lighting, intricate craftsmanship and naturally illuminated perforated Jalis which give a feel of ancient palaces. In spite of being in the heart of such a busy city, this eco friendly hotel offers you a wide variety of restaurants, suites, recreation facilities and lounges.

2. Mountain trail –Mukteshwar

Built with charming Victorian Architecture, this beautiful place was visited by British and developed 125 years back. Variety of wildlife that is found amidst the Oak and Pine forests include Leopards, Bears, Deer and avian life. If that was not enough to thrill you, orchards of Apple, plum, peach etc. also rest in Mother Nature’s lap in Mukteshwar. The awesome views of Nanda devi, Nanda Kot, Trishul and other Himalayan peaks are sure to make your holiday album stand out when you don’t forget the sunrises and sunsets! The trails through the forests are enchanting and mesmerizing for all nature lovers who aspire to spend time visiting hillstations, watching birds and playing adventure sports.

3. The Dune – Pondicherry

The Dune is very near to the Auroville Beach and famous for its chain of modern amenities such as restaurants, spas and swimming pools. The 55 bungalows are classified into various categories and contain a safe, TV, DVD and mini bar each. Pondicherry is a place worth visiting and a stay at Dunes makes it even more worth. Paradise spa is famous at the Dunes and other special recreational activites include animal farms, organic farms outdoor games, children play area etc. The travel desk is truly helpful if you plan sight- seeing.

4. Wildernest nature resort – Goa

Are you looking for the definition of perfect holiday destination? Well, here it is. Wildernest nature resort is situated in the most happening place in India, Goa! You can relax at this 800 metre above sea level resort for a twist away from the stressful work life of the city. Specially built for recreation, the fish ponds are a pleasing site. The resort offers 16 cottages that are eco friendly and give great views of the resort. This place is well connected and hygienic. Staple food is something that you shouldn’t miss here.

5. Coconut Lagoons – Kerala

Location at the backwaters itself explains the luxury and comfort of this serene place. The waterside romantic resort being built inside a coconut plantation, offers a experience of being on a private island with all the necessary comforts and services for its guests. This resort will surely remind you of the olden days Kerala with its architecture and charm the backwaters around are accessible only by boat which is a plus point towards tourism.

6. The Machan – Lonavala

Resting in divinity, the Machan sleeps and wakes a midst the forest which is why has been named Jungle Machan. You will find luxurious and interesting tree houses here which are sectioned into loft, wooden decks, master bedroom and two bathrooms – enough for a rejuvenating and out of the box experience. The most wonderful things about these tree houses is the glass roof which will give you a feel of staring in the star studded night when you sleep, a bath tub under the sky and an outdoor shower! The Machan has unique and amazing features in store for you. The wooden decks give you a chance to spend a peaceful coffee session with your family among the nature and its children and if destiny has it’s plan, you may spot a Malabar squirrel or two.

7. Jims Jungle Retreat – Uttarakhand

Corbett national park is a famous wildlife reserve, especially for the birds and tigers found in plenty here. This incredible resort is located in the south of national park and is nestled between the Himalayan ranges, 400-1200 meter above sea level. The fauna includes the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic elephant, sloth bears, reptiles and varied birds. Jims Retreat features 18 lodges and cottages along with forest trails, safaris, pool-side fun and if you are lucky, some jackals, leopards, elephants, deer or tigers on the jungle safari. There are also seasonal rivers that run here in the jungle and go a long way to make your treks and trails fun.

8. Brunton Boatyard- Kochi

Restored from the remains of shipyards of the 19^th century, this place is located on Cochin’s harbor. The interiors had been influenced by the Colonial powers that resided here, some of them being England, Portugal and Netherlands. Art pieces depicting steam engine ships, high ceilings are part of the architecture. The cuisine too, is hybrid but mouth-watering and delicious. The trade of spices has given Red chilli to India and is used all over our country in every possible dish. Lavish décor, harbor side location, cuisine and outdoor pools are all in all the special characteristics of this beautiful Fort.

January 8, 2015
Yummy-Street Food in India!

Loved by everyone and tasted by every Indian at least once in their lifetime, street food in India is always looked forward to. It is mouth watering and delicious. Its aroma is appealing and no one can forget the thwack of the “tawas” and spoons that one can hear during it gets prepared to be served! The jalebi-faafdas of Gujarat, chaat and wada pav famous all over Maharashtra, litti chokha of Bihar, Lassi of Punjab and Idli, dosa, medu wada of the South are well known to attract tourists. Let us take a look at some more delicacies that are best served on Indian streets!

1. Chaat

This is my favorite section of street food. Pani puri, bhel, ragada puri, sev batata dahi puri, masal puri, aloo chaat, you can find a lot of variety in Chaat dishes. Everything basically contains three or more of the mentioned ingredients- ragada which is boiled yellow peas, kurmura(puffed rice), onion, tamarind chutney, pudina chutney, potatoes, puris, sev, curd and groundnuts.

2. Litti chokha

Litti Chokha is a famous street food in parts of Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. It is best served in Patna and also made in most houses there. If you love ghee, you’ll go crazy about this dish. Made with sattu, grinded chana, potatoes, brinjals and tomatoes, all dunked in desi ghee, this dish looks quite like Rajasthani daal baatti but yet, tastes peculiar in it’s own way.

3. Poha

Even though poha is eaten every now and then at breakfast in a Marathi house, Indore provides the best poha in India. It is served along with jalebi in Indore while this is a weird combo for a Marathi house where poha is eaten with lemon and sev. Poha is actually a local name for rice flakes cooked with spices and oil.

4. Chhole bhature

/>

Chhole bhature or choole kurche is a famous dish believed to be Punjabi. However, one can expect to find the best chhole bhature at Delhi. They are as famous as parathas and rajma chawal found there. Spicy chhole eaten with hot bhature is a lip-smacking combination that finds a place in everyone’s breakfast or snack time once or otherwise.

5. Aloo tikki

It is a famous snack of North India and is made up of crispy fried potato. We Indians love fried potatoes and can hardly live without them. These tikkis are basically cutlets stuffed with potato filling. Other ingredients that go into the dish are green chilies, bread crumbs, peas, corn and spices. aloo tikkis are again served with colorful chutneys.

6. Missal pav

Missal pav is almost a staple food for Maharashtrians. You can find it at every place in the state. As the name suggests, it is served with pav. Missal is a healthy curry that contains matki and spices. It is served with a garnish of chopped onion, sev and lemon. If you like spicy food, you should definitely try missal pav!

7. Dabeli

Dabeli was born in Kutch, Gujarat and it slowly dispersed to Ahmadabad, Mumbai, Pune and other cities along with migrated Gujarati population. It is a blend of potatoes and tomato puree mixed with special spices, garnished with pomegranate seeds, sev, groundnuts and chutney and finally stuffed inside a pav.

8. Wada pav

Wada pav is an interesting dish made up of potato filling inside besan (gram floor) batter. It differs from pakodas in terms of filling. The wada here is basically composed of “aloo ki subji” coated with besan which is eventually fried and served with chillies, red chutney and pav.

9. Idli

Idli is one of the healthiest street foods in India. It is prepared from fermented rice to give it fluffiness. The same batter can also be used to make dosas as dosa only differs in form from Idli. Idli is always served with sambhar and chutney without which it is incomplete. Though it is most popular in the southern states, it has been adopted by most of the other states for it’s deliciousness.

10. Pakodas

Pakodas are a hot favorite in the monsoon. You could find different flavors like chilly, onion, potato but the basic batter remains same and is composed of spices, salt, gram floor and water. You could find pakodas in most Indian states. If you talk about Maharashtra, you will get the best pakodas at hill stations and forts in monsoon.

11. Momos

You would simply love momos if you love chicken. No doubt that there is a vegetarian version available, but chicken momos have their own place in every eater’s heart. It is served with spicy chutney and contains stuffing inside a maida covering. This dish originated in Nepal and now has spread everywhere in India.

12. Ragda patties

This is a colorful dish savored in every Maharashtrian and Gujarathi house. Ragda patties are usually enjoyed with tea. If you are bored of the usual biscuits and toast, go for ragda patties. They add a spicy twist to your tea along with the colorful tamarind, chilly, pudina and other chutneys.

13. Ghugni

Served best with pakodas or puffed rice, the ingredients of ghungni include yellow peas, onion, garlic, tomatoes and all other Indian curry contents. This dish is native to eastern part of India and cooked in traditional style by adding Bengali garam masala. It is again served with yummy chutneys.

14. Pav bhaji

Last but not the least, we have pav bhaji on the list which is one of my personal favorites. Again, a blend of veggies such as potatoes, peas, capsicum, cauliflower, onion, tomatoes served with pav roasted in butter,it becomes even more lip-smacking when eaten with onion and lemon garnish. You will find pav bhaji at almost all cities in Maharashtra, however, it first started in Mumbai and Mumbai still serves the best pav bhaji!

December 24, 2014
Best hotels you could visit in the world!!

There is hardly someone who does not like travelling and hasn’t ever dreamt of going on a world tour yet. But it’s not possible to visit and every city and if at all you happen to be in one of these cities below, here is a list of great hotels that are almost close to heaven. Luxury and ambiance of these hotels has captured hearts of international tourists ever since they were constructed!

1. Palms, Las Vegas

Planning a party in sin city? I tell you, it is impossible to get a place better than the Palms in Las Vegas. It is everything that a perfect party place should be! Rooftop suites, Jacuzzi, glass elevators that will show you the night-time Vegas, gym, full fledged bar and what not! You name it and you get it here. Its is a dream come true for every party loving guy out there.

2. Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai

You sure have seen a floating sail-shaped hotel in a lot of Bollywood movies or even in photographs. We all know its USP, don’t we? It is the one and only Burj Al Arab. Breathtaking views, luxurious suites, tennis courts and a helipad (I know it’s grand!) are the remarkable amenities of this hotel. Burj Al Arab has made everyone enthusiastic to visit it ever since it was built. Royal treatment is something you can expect off the polite and helpful staff here.

3. The Westin Excelsior, Rome

Rome, as you think about it, incredible history is something that comes to your mind first. Situated in Via Veneto district, this hotel was built in 1906 and has been recently renovated to suit the modern lifestyle. It now consists of the largest suite in Italy called ‘the Villa Cupola Suite ’. Even though it was renovated, the hand-frescos and antique furnish still gives it the royal look. Domes, gyms, sauna, formal dining rooms are other enthralling facilities available here.

4. The Plaza, New York City

Would you like to visit the best hotel in New York which gives awesome views of Manhattan? We all know, only The Plaza can get you requirements fulfilled! Visiting this place gives you a feel of turn of centuries. Libraries, gyms, kitchen for personal chefs, private elevator, and a great Butler service and of course, best views of Manhattan are the specialties of The Plaza. This place was built a long ago i.e. in 1907 which is why the architecture reminds you of the old era

5. Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

The submerged Atlantis city has always been a fascination for everyone. The stories claim that it was no less than paradise. This hotel is built as an accolade to Atlantis. Now you know why people flock around here so much. This 141 acre place is actually a resort. Their Royal Towers Bridge Suite is located on the 23^rd floor and offers posh rooms with pianos, a 22 karat gold chandelier and a formal dining room.

6. CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, Anguilla

Originally designed and built for the owner himself, this resort later started made room for guests. Villas and the large well-furnished rooms here are located on beautiful fascinating beaches. The Golf course, Spa and fitness club are the major attractions which have succeeded in attracting even a lot of celebrities here.

7. Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India

Have you watched Yeh Jawani hai Deewani? I am sure that you marveled at the place where Aditi’s (Kalki’s) marriage ceremony was shot! It was none other than Udiapur’s Oberoi Udaivilas. After watching the movie, you don’t really need a description of this Marwadi beauty. A boat ride takes you to this private 50-acre land located in Lake Pichola. Views of Udaipur palaces, wildlife in the nearby forests and grand special rooms with private swimming pools and terraces together form a great combination for the guests.

8. The Boulders, Arizona

Can you imagine something which is 12-million-years old? Well, the rock formations here are! This spa resort got its name from the rock formations and it is nurtured by Mother Nature herself. The Boulders is spread over an enormous 1300 acres of the Sonoran Desert and offers two golf courses as well. Extreme privacy and secrecy about the guest celebrities is the top priority for the extremely loyal staff.

9. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Matauri Bay, New Zealand

Golf being the chief attraction, such a lodge is ought to lie in the North Island countyside. This place offers 22 suites, two tennis courts, three swimming beaches, indoor/outdoor fireplaces and also one of New Zealand’s best spas .The Owner’s Cottage offers wonderful golf course views, two bedrooms and a large 4200 square feet for your leisure.

10. Nayara Hotel, Spa and Gardens, La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a serene place and so is this hotel. Along with lush green scenery, wildlife, white-water rafting and kayaking are the things that tourists look up to. The owner Leo Ghitis has thought of an irresistible combination of huge decks, hot tubs and plantation furniture for the guests. The wine bar here which is an all-time favorite serves best vintages to the guests whenever required.

So, aren’t these places really worth visiting? After looking at this list of features, anyone will go crazy thinking about visiting these hotels which are believed to be the best in the world!

July 7, 2014
Chocolates- the most loved of all!
We all are crazy about chocolates. There would hardly be someone who doesn’t like chocolate. It is not only delicious but also is a rich source of copper which makes hair shiny and beautiful. It is produced from cocoa seeds and classified according to a lot of standards and methods. You will be excited to know these interesting types of chocolates and their effects on your health.

Chocolates can be found everywhere! In ice creams, biscuits, milk or even shampoos for that matter, chocolate is always a favorite flavor. It rejuvenates the mood just by its awesome aroma. Melted chocolate tastes even better. Cold coffee with chocolate sauce is personally my favorite. Drinking chocolate is another popular form.

Some of India’s best chocolates are given below. They are the ones which are loved and consumed all over the country in tremendous quantities!

1. Ferroro Rocher-

Ah, the all-time favorite Ferroro Rocher is of Italian origin and named after its creator. With a whole tasty hazelnut enclosed in wafer layer, the outermost crust of this round chocolate consists of crunchy nuts and milk chocolates. the golden wrapper itself tempts us.

2. Kitkat-

Kitkat is a simple chocolate which is a combination of wafer biscuits and chocolate cream. In India, Nestle Company is the producer of this marvelous chocolate but it is licensed in US under Hershey’s. it is available in gift packs and various sizes.

3. Snickers-

Snickers is manufactured by a company, Mars, all over the world. Snickers is more like a granola bar which is composed of wonderful ingredients like nougat, caramel, peanuts and chocolate. It is available in different sizes according to your hunger’s requirement. Its demand has increased a lot over the last few years.

4. Toblerone-

It is a Swiss chocolate under the Company Mondelēz International, Inc. Its unique shape and taste gives it an edge over others. Toblerone is produced in Bern and has a mesmerizing pentahedral shape. You can find a lot of flavors and sizes of this chocolate.

5. Bounty-

Everyone loves this chocolate which comes in a blue wrapper, manufactured by Mars Incorporated. It originated in UK and Canada and slowly became a favorite all over. The modern Bounty offers a milk chocolate crust that encloses delicious coconut filling inside.

6. Dairymilk Silk-

Dairymilk Silk is a Cadbury product, of course. It originated in UK, again, and its fame spread across the world making it the second largest confectionery brand. Various flavors like ‘fruit and nut’, ‘roasted almond’ etc are loved by people.

7. Milkybar-

Produced by Nestle again, Milkybar is a white chocolate and is sold under diverse names in different countries. Milkybar isn’t literally a chocolate as it does not contain cocoa butter.

8. Bournville-

Coming from Cadbury, Bournville is a well suited brother of Silk. It is the most consumed dark chocolate in India. With its mild bitter taste as its USP, it is classified into flavors according to the various other ingredients used to manufacture them.

Effects on of chocolates on health-

Pros
- Chocolates could be great for the circulatory system.
- They may help keep the blood pressure at normal levels and also help the heart in a positive manner.
- Concentrative abilities can be boosted.
- Chocolates are known to reduce cholesterol levels.
- Lowering of body mass index is another add-on which people look up to. We always think about weight management when it comes to eating chocolate.
- Chocolates contain copper which improves hair texture and makes them healthy.
- It is an anti-carcinogenic and contains flavonoids which treat diarrhea.
- Chocolates are also good for brain when taken in limited amount.
- Chocolates are a great gift as well. Be it any occasion, you can always present someone with chocolates. They convey good regards and lighten the mood because of the sweet taste.
Cons
- Chocolate has a very bad ingredient called theobromine. It has numerous ill-effects such as heartburn. It cannot be digested and is poisonous by many other animals and particularly for humans, it allows stomach acids to enter the esophagus.
- Chocolates for kidney stone patients are a very bad idea because of their oxalate content.
- Obesity is always a risk when chocolates are taken in large amounts and exercise proportional to these amounts is not practiced. Chocolate contains all calorie rich ingredients such as milk, added fats and sugars etc.
- Osteoporosis i.e. weakening of bones is another con of chocolate in most elderly people.
- Addiction to chocolate has also been a problem for people who get habituated to eating them a lot.
- If consumed without knowing about personal effects, chocolates can cause horrible allergic reactions, especially in children.
- Some cases of lead poisoning have been encountered due to eating some specific chocolates. This is because chocolates may absorb environmental lead in little quantities.
- Tooth decay is another common disadvantage of consuming any sweet thing, even chocolate. Proper care should be taken by cleaning teeth after having chocolates.
Thus, chocolates must be consumed in limited quantities to take the pros on our side as well as to avoid their bad effects on our health. Anything which is used in excess causes harm. Chocolate is undoubtedly the most loved food in the world but it necessary to keep all adverse effects in mind.
June 26, 2014
Almond-a complete food in itself

Want to know the reasons for which almonds should be consumed? There are many! It provides many essential nutrients which the adulterated foods today cannot provide. It’s good for brain, body and skin and great for hair. Here are some uses and benefits of almond that may make you interested in eating your share of almonds.

1.Hair

There is not a single hair problem that almonds cannot treat. This is the reason why almonds are used in hair oils everywhere. Almonds are rich in magnesium due to which it facilitates treatment of hair fall, dandruff, split ends and also leaves your healthy silky and shiny. Want awesome hair? Go for almond oils and consumption of raw almonds.

2.Eye-sight

This is another great benefit that you can reap off almonds. It has been believed and tested that almonds help maintaining a good eye-sight and also improves it if consumed in regulated amount.

3.Culinary uses

Almonds form a part of many dishes even if almond is preferred raw or roasted. It is a common garnishing element for tasty desserts. Salted almonds are eaten as snacks and almond is also used to prepare baby foods. Pastry-fillings, halwa, mithai, curries are all incomplete without almonds. Also, almond oil is of great use for cooking some dishes.

4.Complexion and skin

Skin care is an essential part of every lady’s life. You don’t want to start looking dull and old. What can help you? Well, almonds definitely can! They are rich in vitamin E, A and B. Almonds make your tan go away, improve complexion, moisturize your skin, make it soft and healthy. It takes inflammation and skin irritation away. And the best part, almonds are great on anti-ageing, dark circles and wrinkles which is why they find a prominent place in skincare cosmetics. Removal of impurities and dead cells from skin is also a pro for you.

5.Heart

Almonds work wonder for heart. You cannot imagine how much benefit almonds can bring to your heart, besides, it also an anti-carcinogenic! To start with, it reduces bad cholesterol and risk of heart attacks. The flavonoids in almonds prevent heart diseases and damage to arterial walls. If this wasn’t enough, it helps maintain normal blood pressure and insulin levels in body. Isn’t it marvelous?

6.Memory and nervous system

Almonds have been considered royal food and great memory boosters since times unknown. It surely makes your mind sharp and efficient if consumed on a regular basis. Almonds are believed to boost the memory. It is not only good for brain but also for the entire nervous system.

7.Bone and teeth health

Of course, how can one forget its effects on bone and teeth? Almond has great reserves of calcium and phosphorous. It is mostly given to babies so that their teeth and bones come out to be strong. A daily massage of almond oil for little ones is a good practice.

8.Substitute for cosmetics

As discussed earlier, almonds are good for skin because of which they can be a great substitute to many creams that you apply for benefit of your body. Almond oil works as a good make-up remover and is also light on skin as compared to oily and sticky cosmetics. The aroma and softness are add-ons.

9.Lips

Are you fed-up of lip balms that are ineffective on your stubborn chapped-lips? The solution is again, as expected, almonds! Make a fine paste out of honey and almonds or simply use almond oil to massage your lips gently. You will soon have pink and luscious lips.

10. Digestion

Another advantage of consuming whole almonds is its aid in digestion of food. The rich fibers help avoid constipation and make almond a good laxative.

11. Blood and immunity

Improved blood circulation and stronger immunity may become your reason to love almonds. Its high dose of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients impart these great qualities albeit it’s small size. Almonds help fighting common infections and make your body energetic.

12. Muscle pain

Warm almond oil massages can make you get rid of your muscle sprains and pains. The stressed muscles relax beneath due to analgesic characteristics of almonds.

13. Nails

As we know, calcium, zinc and potassium are wonderful components of almonds which are great for healthy and strong nails. Massaging nails with almond oil leaves your nails strong, lustrous and infection-free.

14. Managing weight

Coming to weight, it’s always a problem, isn’t it? Some say overweight and others say underweight. Perhaps, almonds come to your help here as well. Almonds are a source of healthy fat which can help increase overall weight instead of gaining a sprouting paunch. Oh, are you the one who falls in the overweight category? Almonds have a solution for you too. They are responsible for decreasing body mass indices effectively. Consuming unsweetened almond milk, or whole almonds (they contain dietary fibers and almost all nutrients) do not deprive your body of essential elements but also make you feel full, thus making you avoid over-eating.

Now don’t you think almond is the perfect solution to all your problems? Go on and try it yourself. Almond paste is also an effective scrub for your face, by the way.

June 26, 2014
Kill your stress before it kills you!
With today’s rat race at full speed, stress has become an unavoidable part of everybody’s life. Be it a businessman or a salaried employee or even a housekeeper, this evil troubles everyone alike. It is more than essential to combat stress before it breaks you down from within. There are few simple yet effective ways in which you can easily fight stress and keep your smiles in place. Here they go-
1. Identify-
  
  Identification of the reasons of your stress is the primary requirement for combat.
2. Avoid someone-
  
  This is the most fundamental measure if your reason for stress is people. Just avoid them, simple!
3. Avoid some things-
  
  there are various things whose vision itself can stress you out. Put out those things from your life.
4. Deny-
  
  You know your limit to work without stress. Deny work that goes off limits.
5. Compulsory? –
  
  Ask this question to yourself if you find yourselves overburdened after analysis of your routine. If the answer is no, you know what alterations to make!
6. Extrovert-
  
  Express what’s on your mind. It is often not possible for people around you to know what actions trouble you. If they get an idea of your problems, they are less likely to trouble you unknowingly.
7. Time-management-
  
  Managing your schedule is the key to a happy life. Keeping a throat tight schedule not only tires you mentally and physically but also reduces your efficiency towards all tasks.
8. Rest-
  
  This is not something to be told. 6-7 hours of sleep per day will make your days fresh and efficient as you are likely to feel energetic.
9. Positiveness-
  
  Don’t let the positiveness in and around fade away. Be clear about your problems and see the sweet side of things.
10. Adjust-
  
  You cannot get everything in life. Learn to adjust with situations and enjoy what you have in hand instead of trying to fit everything on the same plate, same day.
11. Indifference-
  
  we all are surrounded with things which cannot be changed. People, places and rains are just examples. Instead of getting yourself mad over these things, isn’t it better to think about something that can be altered?
12. Learn-
  
  When you make mistakes, try fixing them and learning from them instead of crying over the spilt milk.
13. Share –
  
  There are people who care for you. You can at least think of one such person with whom you can share your problems. Maybe you just need a listener instead of an advisor!
14. Professional help-
  
  If your family itself depresses you, psychiatrists and counselors are always great alternatives. Expert advice can always help you.
15. Forgive-
  
  if a quarrel/brawl/argument is the only cause of your stress, simply forgive others mistakes because no one can entirely avoid mistakes.
16. Walk-
  
  personally, whenever I am stressed out or angry, I keep walking until all my anger fades away. It’s free and easy on your health. A good solution in all, yeah?
17. Write, read and talk –
  
  Talk to yourself, write your problems, pros and cons on paper. Once, they are on paper, they won’t trouble you. If that’s not all, read a fictional novel and forget the real world altogether for some time.
18. Music and movies-
  
  Music is known to heal your wounds. Listen to soothing music or watch a pleasant comedy just for fun!
19. Cook-
  
  Cook something for yourself. Try out new recipes from the internet or go for your favorite dishes.
20. Exercise-
  
  A marvelous way to discharge all your anger, exercise is something that can literally kill stress. Won’t you feel great after smashing the punching bag, imagining it to be your problem?
21. Nature and pets-
  
  Pets give you unconditional love and expect nothing in return. Who cannot love such beings back? They can make you forget everything else if you play with them. If you don’t have pets, just sit calmly in the lap of Mother Nature.
22. Relax-
  
  Sometimes sitting idle works wonders for you. Just stop your thought process, be blank and lie down peacefully without doing any work. It will calm your life down.
23. Socialize-
  
  In this era of social networking, learn to connect and bond with new and old people. Talk to them and create a good support system for yourself.
24. Loud-
  
  Be loud, be mad, cry out and listen to hard rock. let your emotions flow out with the tears and the harsh voice.
25. Enjoy-
  
  Take out time for yourself in your routine. Play musical instruments, dance or go out with friends. You are the king of your joy!
26. Laugh-
  
  Watch out for fun around you, there is sure to be some. Visit a friend whose sense of humor amuses you or just be the joker yourself.
27. Diet-
  
  Make sure you get your daily dose of nutrients. Skipping meals is the worst idea you’ve ever had. It just worsens your condition to fight tough times.
28. Let go-
  
  Leave your bad habits and think about your family. Let go of all bad company.
29. No to caffeine-
  
  even if a dose of caffeine makes you energetic and keeps you up temporarily, it climaxes into fatigue and mood swings. So avoid it as much as you can.
30. Stay away-
  
  Tobacco and alcohol are always no-no! And that’s not it, drugs and medicines are even worse. They slowly attack your mind, break your moral down and finally lead to bankruptcy. You may find them as short-lived solutions to stress but trust me, it’s a bad idea.
Help yourselves because it’s your life and you want to make it better!
June 15, 2014
Indian Arts
India, our motherland is known for its culture and customs. We have a very colorful and rich heritage. Our country is the birthplace of various arts which are famous and celebrated all over the world. Indian artists are famous all over the world. We should be proud to have such unique talents with us. Here is an introduction to the bountiful and beautiful arts which were and still are practiced in India.
1. Sculptures
  
  Sculpturing is a rich art found from as early as 2^nd century BC. The group of Ajanta caves has become a world heritage site just because of its intricate and traditional sculptures. Buddha’s preaching and day-to-day life depictions were the most common subjects to sculpt. Idols of God are sculpted even now in India.
2. Jewelry
  
  With a legacy continuing for 5000 years, Indian jewelry is in demand all over the world because of the royal designs and meticulous efforts of Indian designers over the millennia. Pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, gold, silver and many other metals find a place in the designs.
3. Fresco
  
  The most famous and intriguing Indian frescos of medieval period are found at the overhanging rocks of Bagh, Ellora, Ajanta and Sittanavasal caves. Kerala mural painting is another form of fresco which can be found at sites like Pundarikapuram, Ettumanoor and Aymanam for instance.
4. Tribal arts
  
  Puranic deities, lifestyle, beliefs and rituals are the inspiration behind tribal arts such as pot-making, weaving, jewelry, dance, paintings, music, sculptures and textiles. There are various tribes in every state of India. Each of them has its own history and related art forms.
5. Folk dances
  
  Folk dance is a way of expressing happiness for arrival of seasons, weddings, births etc. Colorful and flamboyant costumes along with folk music and instruments make up the essence of Indian folk dances. Some well-known examples are Bhangra, Gidda, Jhumar, Garba, Dandiya, Lejim etc.
6. Classical dances
  
  There are seven main traditional classical dances known but a few new ones like Andhra Natyam are also counted along with the main seven now. The seven main classical dances are Bharatnatyam (Tamil Nadu), Odyssey (Orissa), Kathak (Uttar Pradesh), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Mohiniattam (Kerala), Kathakali (Kerala) and Manipuri (Manipur).
7. Mehendi:
  
  Any wedding ceremony is incomplete without Mehendi. A green paste is made from Henna leaves and is applied on the palms and feet of women. Once the paste dries on the skin, it leaves a reddish-orange color and is hence, believed to be a decorative art.
8. Rangoli
  
  Rangoli, also known as Alpana, is a traditional art which is known to have originated when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. It is a sign of welcome to happiness and prosperity. Rangoli is used to decorate the house front during various festivals, especially Diwali.
9. Martial arts
  
  The origin of martial arts in India is traced back to the age of Mahabharata where swords, bows and arrows etc were used as weapons of war. Today, 8 martial arts exist in India which are as follows- Kalaripayattu, Silambam, Gatka, Mushti Yuddha, Thangta, Lathi, Mardani khel and Pari khanda.
10. Miniature painting
  
  It has actually come to India via Persian artists invited by Mughal kings in 16^th century. It soon became renowned and appreciated because of its modern approach. Portraits of loved ones, plants, animals and nature were the key elements of these paintings.
11. Music- Carnatik and Hindustani
  
  Indian music being a combination of folk and modern music, its backbone is formed by classical music of two types which even today hold a special place in every culturally aware person’s heart. The Carnatik music is native to Southern part of India and it focuses on vocal music while Hindustani music is native to the northern part and believed to be influenced by Islamic and Persian traditions.
12. Literature
  
  22 languages spoken in India are officially recognized and literature in many of these languages has continued to exist in written and spoken form through the centuries. The sacred Geeta, Vedas, Arthshastra, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vastu shastra are a few literary works to mention. Rabindranath Tagore received a Nobel prize for literature.
13. Architecture
  
  One of the most ancient civilizations of the world, Indus Valley civilization emerged in India. The evidences of existence of planned cities, places of worship, community centers have been found. Later, the Dravids, Aryans, Mughals and later population strengthened the art of architecture in India further. Pre-historic buildings such as Qutub Minar, Char Minar, Bibi ka Makbara, Taj Mahal are proofs of the intellectual concepts of architecture which existed even then.
14. Cinema
  
  the Indian film industry is the second largest in the world. Films in various languages are produced every now and then. Its gaining popularity all over the world for its entertainment quotient. The Bombay Hindi film industry is called ‘Bollywood’. Tollywood (Telugu) , Kollywood (Tamil) , Sandalwood (Kannada) are the other major Indian film industries after Bollywood.
15. Painting
  
  The earliest paintings in India are older than 5500 BC, found on the rocks of Bhimbetka caves. The carved pillars and stupas at various places such as Ajanta, Ellora are great illustrations of Indian paintings. The colors used to be derived from various minerals.
June 15, 2014