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Interesting facts about chocolates

HISTORY- The secret of cacao tree was discovered around 2,000 years ago in Central American rain forests. At that time tropical mix of rainfall combined with humidity and temperature provided the climate for cultivation of the plant from which chocolate is derived, called cacao tree. Cacao was an essential and important part of Mayan culture. The Mayan also used Cacao beans as currency. The first people who made chocolate were the cultures of America and Mexico. They mixed Cacao seeds with various seasonings to make spicy drink. Later, the drink’s popularity spread throughout the Europe. Since then, new experiments and techniques have brought changes in the tastes of chocolates. The taste of chocolate depends upon proportion of cacao and other integrands used in the mixture.

Studies have proved that dark chocolate which is sweet and delicious is good for curing heart stroke. Dark chocolate is made from cacao beans. It has coconut palm sugar and it is high in nutrients. It contains high level of flavonoids and antioxidants. It contains low glycemic index so it doesn’t raise your sugar level. Dark chocolate reduces insulin resistance and helps your body to efficiently use the insulin. It stimulates the production of chemicals in the brain that brings you the feeling of pleasure. It also works as an anti-depressant. Flavonoids in dark chocolates helps in protecting and increasing blood flow in skin and improves skin’s complexion. It contains a chemical which is effecting in treating cough. Dark chocolate is considered as one of the best food for fighting against cancer. It reduces inflammation and inhibits cancer cell division. Dark chocolates have positive effects on blood pressure, stress, circulation and energy. The dark chocolate antioxidants and other phytochemicals can balance blood pressure and promote general health by reversing heart disease.

Researchers have found that chocolates can protect against tooth decay. Even someday its components may be added to face wash and tooth pastes. Scientists have discovered that the outer part of the cacao bean which usually goes as waste during chocolate production has an anti-bacterial effect on mouth and it can fight against dental plaque and other damaging agents. The foods which contain carbohydrates are cavity causing culprits whereas cacao butter in chocolates coats your teeth and make them less likely to cause tooth decay. Chocolates may be high in sugar but they melts in very much less time in your mouth giving no time to bacteria to cause tooth decay or any other damage.

Chocolate contains the stimulant Theobromine and also phenylethylamine, which stimulates the same hormones as lovemaking. There are some small amount of a substance in chocolates which gives a feeling of wellbeing. Chocolate triggers the brain and releases a hormone which speeds up your pulses and give you a pleasant high feeling, rather like being in love. Studies have shown reduction in stress hormones and other stress-related changes in those who eats chocolates regularly than those who does not. Some substances in cacao affects the levels of serotonin – which can ease depression and boost your mood.

Cocoa chocolate was known not only for its good taste but also for its effective health effects. It improves the heart function and relieves stimulation of the nervous system, facilitated digestion, and improved kidney and bowel function. In addition, cocoa was used to treat, mental fatigue, anemia, tuberculosis, gout, fever, kidney stones, and even poor sexual appetite. Foods rich in flavonoids were associated with a decreased risk of death caused by heart disease. Dark chocolate prevents arteriosclerosis, lowers high-blood pressure. Chocolate contains a molecule that can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, the levels in chocolate are probably too low to produce an effect on our mood by itself. Chocolates contain magnesium salts and its absence in elderly females may be responsible for the post-menopausal condition known as chocoholism. Chocolate contains a molecule that resembles psychoactive stimulants.

There is one more interesting fact which is not known to most of the people i.e food also promotes skin health. Chocolate is a skin-friendly ingredient which helps your skin to stay healthy, glowing and just flawless.Flavonols found in dark chocolate helps your skin to protect itself from sunburn, redness and other signs of UV damage. Cocoa helps in reducing stress hormones, which means less collagen breakdown in the skin and fewer wrinkles. It removes the dead skin cells and allows the newly exposed, fresh skin to breathe freely. Dark chocolates are found to be rich in copper, zinc and iron which promotes the cell renewal growth process. So eating at least 2 chocolates every day will increase oxygen and blood flow to the scalp and lead to healthier and strong hair. Chocolates have a low glycemic index which helps in reducing huge spikes in sugar level. Dark chocolates contain theobromine, a chemical which is found to harden our tooth enamel.

June 28, 2014
6 Motivational ways to stay healthy

Eat a healthy breakfast –

Most of us are unaware of some facts about breakfast. Even I used to think that taking breakfast daily will lead to me putting on weight and taking an egg and milk daily is so boring. But this type of thinking got clear when I came to know some interesting facts about breakfast. Now a days foods are high in calories and low on nutrition. A healthy breakfast is the cornerstone of a good and perfect diet. It sets you up so that you are full of energy and fuel for physical and mental performance. A healthy breakfast includes high fiber cereal which keeps diabetes, heart disease and stroke away from us. Researchers have shown that the one who take breakfast as a routine is leaner than who skip the morning meal.

Adding a little lean protein to the breakfast works as a booster of energy and helps you feeling full until lunchtime. Protein blunts your hunger and is the most satiating. The human body uses up a massive 440 calories during eight to nine hours sleep, that’s why breakfast in morning is so important.

To get you started here’s an idea of breakfast meal –

1egg

Oatmeal

Flax seeds

Almond slivers

1 glass milk

Fruits

Physical Exercise-

It is world known that physical activity is vital for your health. Regular physical activity both moderate and vigorous bring health benefits. Exercise can improve one’s performance by as much as 50% if they eat dark chocolate regularly. Regular exercise results in increased energy, increased metabolism, stress reduction and increased muscle tone, controls blood pressure, healthy weight etc. It also keeps you in shape so that you can enjoy leisure activities and offers great mental and social benefits. It protects you from stroke and heart diseases. Physical activity also stimulates various brain chemicals which may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. Exercise and physical activity delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system to work more efficiently. Get ready to work out with the given best exercises for heart health-

Walking

Cycling

Swimming

Yoga

Weight lifting

Regular Sleep hours-

Although most of the people are fond of sleeping but some of them are too busy in their work that they don’t find enough time for sleep. They don’t have any idea that lack of sleep can increase a person’s risk of serious health problems. Lack of sleep can make you put on weight by slowing the metabolism down. Researchers have found that getting good sleep works as a supplement medication for pain. Sleep also increases blood supply to our muscles, allowing our body to recover from the day’s stresses. When you are in a good sleep, your body temperature lowers, and this energy is utilized on growth and repair of tissues and cells.

So it’s an advice that make sleep a priority. Naps can help pick you up and make you work more efficiently.

Drink water at least 8 glasses a day-

Today most of the people prefer cold drinks over water. Drinking coke, Pepsi, etc. daily is their routine. There is something interesting which they are missing out. Let them think over this habit after reading the article. A human body is from 55% to 78% water. Every cell in your body needs water from head to toe. It is essential to consume water every day to prevent dehydration. You will look younger when your skin is properly hydrated. Water works as moisturizer for skin and increases skin elasticity. The waste is thrown out of the body in form of sweat and urine which reduces the risk of kidney stones and urine infections. It helps you in losing weight, building muscles, and is healthy for your joints. Also it saves your money as Water is FREE!

Eat fruits and vegetables-

Now a days whether he is a kid or adult, everyone like to eat junk food like burger, pizza, etc. They are unaware of the fact that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits may reduce risk of heart diseases and protect from cancer. Fruits and vegetables provide fiber that helps to maintain your digestive system. Freshly squeezed juices from fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of minerals and vitamins that catalyzes chemical reactions in the body. Also, fruits promote detoxification in the human body.

Food to maintain healthy joints-

Bone and join pain is common when you have reached on the age of 40. But here is something for your joint pain which really works. What you eat has direct effect on your joints and bones. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet really help you to keep your joints healthy. Several scientists have proved that tart cherry juice and fresh cherries may curb inflammation. Vitamin C helps your body to make collagen which is a part of our ligaments and cartilage which cushion your joints and hold them together. Calcium and vitamin D makes your joints strong.

June 28, 2014
Foods which are best for skin

The nutritious and healthy food is all that you want to have a perfect and blushing skin. Not only it protects the inner body but also shields from the outside. The better and more nutritious food stuff we take in results in more beautiful and vibrant skin. Now a day’s people spend a lot amount of money in buying skin products, but the results out of them are not found to be satisfactory. We can protect our skin by proper exercising, sleeping for adequate amount, avoiding damage from the sun and most importantly by eating healthy and nourishing food items. The right kinds of food items can certainly shield the skin from the effect of environment, location and time. People have become less concerned of what they eat and hence they end up buying expensive cosmetics for their skin. Taking all the necessary nutrients in your diet definitely results in glowing, healthy looking skin. So if you really want the radiant and shining skin then you have to make sure the food items you take in.

Drink a lot: In order to make your skin more flexible, drink a lot to provide it with moisture. Deficiency in the amount of moisture can lead to dry, dull and drained skin. It has been found out that it is necessary to drink around 6 to 8 glasses of water every day. If you are working or move out of your house, make it a habit to carry a bottle of water along with you. Consuming alcohol is damaging for the skin, so avoid extreme amount of it. Teas which do not contain caffeine are also good for the skin.

Almonds: Almonds are rich in Vitamin E and because of that it helps in protecting the skin from the damage of the sun. It has been found out that the people who ingest about 20 almonds a day are more resistant from the exposure to the sun as compared to the people who do not consume almonds. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and hence it is quite beneficial for the skin. So don’t forget to eat almonds every day to have a beautiful and vibrant skin.

Fruits and Vegetables: Effective and necessary antioxidants are present in fruits and vegetables that provides shield to the skin from the cellular ravage that is triggered by the free radicals. These free radicals can lead to wrinkles and age marks on the skin. They are produced by contamination, effluence, smoking as well as sunlight. Proper amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet are very important for healthy and fit skin. Try to include papaya, spinach, pumpkin and sweet potatoes in your diet as they rich in all the necessary nutrients which the skin wants.

Green Tea: Green tea has many benefits like it provides relaxing and soothing effect. Apart from that it contains antioxidants that fight with tenderness, swelling and inflammation. It is also studied that the consumption of green tea may diminish the danger of skin cancer as well. Because of the high amount of antioxidant present in the green tea, it helps in reducing the redness. So it is advised to consume 1 cup of green day every single day.

Guava, Orange, papaya: Vitamin C is considered as an excellent antioxidant. It is very essential for us and provides us with many benefits like it plays a vital role for the robust immune system. It makes the skin glowing, shining and healthy looking. It helps in the healing of the blemishes and the marks. There is wide range of vitamin c rich food items that you can consume. Some of the finest sources include guava, orange, papaya, kiwi and many more. Hence, make your skin looks vibrant and lively as a result of vitamin c rich food stuff.

Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate proves to be very valuable for the skin. The antioxidant present in the dark chocolate is ‘flavonols’ that helps in reducing the coarseness in the skin. It also provides protection from the sun. It acts as a sun blocker. The skin becomes more flexible and agile as the cocoa provides moisture to the skin. A little amount of it every day certainly improves the glow and shine on the skin. The person who consumes it has an advance texture of the skin and he or she is more resistant to the sun rays.

Walnuts: Omega -3 fatty acids are very important for us as it helps in improving the flexibility and agility of the skin. Walnut is very rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Apart from that walnut also contains copper, which is a useful mineral that increase the creation of collagen. So in order to get a better skin texture and to make the skin more refreshing eat walnuts every single day.

We all have various creams as well as skin treatments but the skin becomes more beautiful with the intake of nourishing and healthy food products. It is essential that we include the desirable nutrients in our everyday diet to make the skin radiant and fabulous. So make sure that you consume the vital nutrients every single day.

June 28, 2014
Gujarati’s folk dance: Daandiya Raas

Dandiya is basically a dance form which was originated by Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. It was a symbol of Raas Lila between Krishna and Radha. But now it has become a popular folk dance of Gujarat. It is a custom followed during Navaratri evenings in various parts of Western India. During this season people gather together and perform Dandiya Raas.

Dandiya Raas has become a substantial part of Navaratri festival. This festival is celebrated throughout India to pay tribute to the incarnations of Mata Ambe. It continues for nine days and people tend to visit temples and then open their fasts. While the days are passed in worshipping, the nights are energetic and vivacious. The excitement of this festive season is at its peak. In every part of the country special events are organized and arrangements are made for Dandiya especially in Gujarat.

There are various forms of this dance form like Dang Lila in Rajasthan. In this people used to perform dance with only one large stick in their hands. But in Dandiya Raas people carry sticks in their hands and form two large circles. Stick is the only prop used in this dance form and it is fully decorated. The sticks are made of bamboo and to give an attractive look they are usually painted with different colors. In the ancient times Dhol was enough to make them dance, but today various tracks are in the market, which makes their feet dance according to its beat. The people from both the circles make pairs and dance accordingly. Their sticks hit together and create a nice sound. One circle tends to move clockwise and another anticlockwise. And if they are short of sticks, then they just hold one stick in their right hands and dance. In some parts of the state it is also known as Stick Dance.

Dandiya Raas generally includes a large number of people so to make it a successful event sometimes dancer are supplemented by an instrumentalist which is a master in playing drums. This man stands in the center of these two circles and hundreds of people gather around to see the live performances. The sound of these sticks produces a rhythm of musical waves. It is the highlight and focus of attraction during the festive season of Navratra.

Raas Dandiya is performed to display a fight between the Goddess and the demon-king Mahishasura. The sticks used in the dance are a symbol of swords of Durga. In this dance the dancers energetically move their feet and sticks to tune themselves to the rhythm and set according to the beats. This dance does not require many skills and can be easily co-ordinated. Dancers perform in a very rhythmic and elegant manner and it appears like they are rotating around ‘Mandvi’.

Dandiya is not all about how we dance instead the most attractive part is how we are dressed up. In this dance form both men and women participate. The women are generally dressed up in traditional colorful dresses or in general, we can say three-piece like embroidered choli and ghagra with bandhani dupattas. They adore themselves with attire consisting of mirror work and jewelry. Women adorn themselves with silver jewelry on their heads, silver bangles in their hands, etc. The men are seen in colorful turbans and traditional dhoti and kurtas. The dresses they wear not only make them appear charming rather it also make their moves appear flexible. These events are organized in a large garden or grounds. So to give a plasma effect the whole area is covered with lanterns and candles.

People generally use Garba and Dandiya as each other synonym but in reality they are not similar and there lies a major difference between them. Garba is a dance form which consist of feet and hand movements without using any props like sticks. Women are the only ones included in this dance form and coordinate their steps. Dandiya Raas is another style which colorfully decorated and lucrative sticks in it. In Dandiya various steps require an even number of participants while in a Garba random number of people can participate. You can need to be careful and attractive while you are playing with Dandiya but Garba is a freestyle form of dancing that requires no coordination. Musical Instruments such as table, drums, and harmoniums are required for Garba dance. Garbage is always performed before Aarti while Dandiya is performed after Aarti.

Generally Dandiya Raas and Garba dance is reflected during the Navaratri festival, but in some parts of our country, it has become a culture in wedding ceremonies. Raas is very complex when it has to be performed on stage with some particular music and steps. Initially, when Raas entered into our culture, all the songs were related to Lord Krishna, but as soon as it was expanded songs about love, Goddess Durga came into the scene.

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June 28, 2014
Mainstream Nutrition Myths

People generally have a lot of nutrition myths in their knowledge and they follow it as they have heard it from somewhere and consider it as a true fact. But today science and technology has progressed a lot. We no longer live in the world where facts cannot be verified. The scientific studies have proved that the following mentioned myths are baseless and people should ignore them completely. So here we go.

You should eat less salt so as to prevent the heart attacks: Yes you may have heard this myth from a lot of people advising you to eat less salt as in helps in preventing the heart attacks. While this has been proved that eating less salt reduces the blood pressure of the human body to a very slight level, there has not been any link established between the heart attacks and the salt consumptions. If you are suffering from hypertension then salt intake should be restricted to prescribed limit. So don’t go for the boring and tasteless food. Eat as such as salt you feel like.

Having several small meals is more beneficial for health: people often argue that that those who eat several small meals in a day are more active as their metabolism rate is higher than the people who eat at the fixed timings. This is again a myth and it is not correct. The activeness of the human body depends upon the calories that are burnt throughout the day. So if you are having 6-7 small meals or going for the regular 3 meals, the effects will be same. Eating very often can also increase the abdominal fats which is very harmful.

You should go for foods which have high carbohydrates and low fats: Now this is one such myth which is extremely popular. You must have often heard people saying that one should eat food items which have high carbohydrates and low fats, as in this way you can prevent the body from any sort of disease and stay healthy. Further they also help in losing weight and prevent the risk of cancer. This is completely baseless. There has been several studies conducted on this myth but none has been able to give results which can support this claim.

Avoid eating yolks in eggs as they have high cholesterol and causes heart disease: I mean seriously you believe this myth. Yolk has the tremendous source of essential vitamins and minerals which the body requires for proper functioning. It has a high amount of good cholesterols which are essential for the human beings and clearly it does not cause the heart attacks. If you are diabetic then surely you should not eat eggs. But if you are healthy then you must eat eggs as they are among the most nutritious foods that we have. So who so ever tells you to stop eating yolk or eggs, ask them to read about the benefits of eating eggs and get their facts corrected.

Avoid coffee as it is unhealthy: You must have been advised by your loved ones that you should not drink coffee too much as it contains caffeine which is not only dangerous for the health but also gets you addicted towards it. But the latest studies conducted have yielded different results. According to them, coffee offers several health benefits and so you should drink it more often. It is a wonderful source of the antioxidants and helps people in getting rid of the depression and diabetes.

Say no to high protein diets: Most of the people believe that diets which are high in proteins such as the chickens and meats causes the extra strain on the kidneys and make it prone to the diseases. Result of which can lead to the kidney failure. But this is not at all true. The protein intake is completely safe for the people who are healthy and only those people who have kidney diseases should stop themselves from eating protein rich foods. Proteins act as a wonderful agent which suppresses the appetite and helps in the weight loss process.

Avoid full fat dairy products: you must have seen people opting for the toned milk instead of the full cream milk. It is because they believe that fully fat dairy products have a high amount of the calories and saturated fats present in them which results in the increase of obesity and the risk of the heart disease. But none of studies conducted so far have not been able to prove these myths as a true fact. The dairy products are preferred as they have high amount of fat in them and so if you choose to go for the less fat products then it is surely a bad idea.

Sugar is not harmful for the human body: We use sugars in several drinks and food items daily without paying attention towards the amount of sugar that we are consuming. Excess sugar consumption has several health disadvantages. You should check the consumption of sugar as it provides the empty calories which are not good for the healthy body. Not only it can cause you obesity, diabetes but it also affects the metabolic reactions going inside the human body.

June 28, 2014
Easy way of making Wine at home

Wine is nothing but a alcoholic beverage that is made out of fermented grapes.Basically there are two varieties of wines they are red wine and white wine.The simple difference between them is that red wine is prepared by soaking the grapes along with the skin whereas the white wines are prepared by removing the skin of the grapes after fermentation process.By using different types of grape varieties and strains of yeasts, they produce different type of wines.

history of wine

History:

Wine has a very long history and it spans over thousands of years.At first the evidence of wine civilization is found in China around 7000 BCE. Mainly the wine making technology was improved during the roman empire.They used to store them in barrels and shipped them to various parts of the world.The production and consumption has eventually increased during 15th century.Slowly it has spread to all the parts of the world and now it is available everywhere around the world.

history of wine

Making wine at home:

From thousands of years people are making their own type of wine at home.This can be prepared using any type of fruit but most people prefer to make it with grapes.In this process after mixing all of the ingredients we must leave the wine to ferment and then we have to age it before bottling.By using this simple olden process we can make delicious wine at home.

Ingredients:

1) Take six cups of any of the fruit

2) Take two cups of honey

3) Take one packet of yeasts

4) Take filtered water

Step 1:

This is the step we have to prepare all our supplies and ingredients first.Along with the wine ingredients we have to take some of the basic supplies so that our wine can age longer without being affected by bugs and bacteria.As we are making it in home we should see that it should not be much expensive.The supplies that are required for making at home are

1) Take two gallons of glass jar

2) Take one gallon of glass container having small neck

3) Take an air lock

4) Take a thin plastic tube that may be used for siphoning

5) Take clean wine bottles with screw caps

Step 2:

Select any type of fruit for making wine.Most of the people use grapes for the preparation of wine.While choosing a fruit it is better to choose a fruit that is organic as it has to be treated with chemicals if it is not organic.For reduced cost of making this wine take fruits in a farmers market.

Step 3:

At first take the fruits and remove the stems and and leaves and clean them thoroughly so that there should not be any dirt or grit.Next rinse the fruit thoroughly and place it in a crock or glass jar.Before crushing we can peel off the skin, but the actual flavor comes from the skin itself.If we peel off the skin then the wine will be more milder.Few think that natural yeasts lie on the skin of the fruit and does not wash it before crushing.

Step 4:

Now crush the fruits till the juice comes out of it.This process of taking the juice out of fruit is known as crushing.This process must be done until the fruit juice is about one and half inches from the top of the crock or glass jar.In case if the fruit juice is not till top of the glass jar fill the remaining level with mineral water.At this stage add campeden tablet to the mixture as it releases sulphur dioxide which kills wild yeasts and bacteria.In case if we don’t want to use tablet at that stage add two cups of boiling water to the fruit.

Step 5:

Add honey to the fruit juice as it adds sweetness to the wine and also provides food for yeasts.We can also add sugar if we don’t have honey available.

Step 6:

Now the main thing yeasts are to be added to the mixture taken and stir them well continuously by using a long handed spoon.For the preparation this is a step is a must and should not be ignored.

Fermenting wine:

wine-fermentation

Step 1:

Now after adding yeasts cover the crock by using a lid such that i must keep bugs away from it and it must allow air to flow in and out.Then tie it with a t shirt at the opening by using a rubber band.Now leave this undisturbed over night by providing it a temperature of 70 degrees.

Step 2:

Continuous stirring must be done for every four hours and must recover it such that the mixture starts bubbling so that yeasts start their action.This continuous stirring will help in making delicious wine.

Step 3:

Now as the bubbling slows down after few days take this to a glass container with a small neck for longer storage.Now place the small balloon over the opening to let the gas collected and replace it in a right away.

Step 4:

After this process let the wine be stored for few months but at least one month as the age for the wine increases the taste for it also increases.

Step 5:

At last preserve the wine by taking it in clean bottles and close it immediately by using a cork.Generally use dark bottles to preserve red wines.Allow it to preserve for longer age or can also take it immediately depending on one’s requirements.

Wine stored in dark bottles especially red wine

June 28, 2014
The Best Carnival on Earth!
It’s one of the hottest, sexiest and the most amazing carnival on the face of this earth! And not just this, but the Carnival is something that gives one chance to witness the true culture of Brazil. It is a euphoric extravaganza, where people from all walks of life come together and have tons of fun. A lot of people consider the Carnival in Brazil as one the biggest festive celebrations. It has got wild parties, colours, vibrance, costumes and everything you can relate to the idea of ‘festivity’! It’s celebrated in Brazil every year before Easter. The word Carnival holds its roots in the word ‘carnelevare’ which literally means ‘removal of meat’. Traditionally, the festival is believed to be celebrated before those particular days when the Roman Catholics abstained from consuming alcohol or meat. This was done to drive away bad things from their life. The carnival originated in the Era dominated by the Europeans. The carnival was the day when people indulged in alcohol, sex, dancing and all the fun just before the beginning of Lent. That was the time when people exchanged clothes (and sometimes even slaves)! Carnivals are a thing across the globe. But the Brazilian Carnival tops the list when it comes to the popularity of carnivals. It’s a weeklong festival where people revel in dances and enjoy a lot! Almost all the Brazilian cities host a carnival before Lent, but the one we know of (and of course, the pictures that we usually get to see) are of the Carnival at the capital city of Brazil, Rio! Samba has been the traditional dance of Brazil and people wear beautiful costumes and masks and do the samba to the beats of drums. Now the pictures that you see of the festival are of the famous parade that happens during which gorgeous (and very sexy) samba dancers standing on a vehicle move across the stadium as more and more people join in the parade. Generally, shops are shut during the time of the Carnival and people come out to rejuvenate themselves. Many Samba schools who are also involved in various community services form the organising team of the Carnival. You don’t know how to dance? It is totally okay. A lot of people with two left feet come to enjoy this carnival and try their hand (ummm actually feet) at dancing! Here are some really interesting facts about the amazing Rio Carnival:
1. It’s held 40 day before Ester and is super-wild four day extravaganza.
2. It ends on a day called ‘Fat Tuesday’, which comes before ‘Ash Wednesday’, that is the start of Lent.
3. The festival is celebrated in the month of February which is the hottest month of the year. We see the city’s temperature rising during this time, literally and metaphorically too!
4. The Greeks and Romans celebrated the arrival of spring with a grand party. The festival’s history can be traced back to the age old tradition of the Greeks and Romans.
5. The traditions were carried to the New World in the 1700s by the Portuguese.
6. A festival called “Entrudo” is when people throw water, lime and food at each other.
7. The Carnival as we know it today has evolved with time. Huge street parades with people revelling and dancing are the best part of the Carnival.
8. A lot of bands and orchestras entertain the people with Samba music.
9. The Samba Parade is the most awaited and the most interesting part of the Carnival. It is actually a competition between the odd 200 Samba schools of Rio..
10. Sambodromo is the stadium where the Carnival is celebrated. The audience witness an enthralling competition between Rio’s Samba schools and they are judged based on their elaborate costumes, dances and music.
11. £3 million and more are spent on the outfits and preparations of the Carnival.
12. The dance schools are formed from a majority of people from the city’s slums.
13. Around two million people attend the festival each year.
14. The mayor of Rio inaugurates the festival each year where he hands over a huge gold and silver key to the Fat King, Rei Momo.
15. The festivities begin much before the actual Carnival starts. Actually, Rio is a result of months of preparation and hard work.
16. Small local parades that are called ‘blocos’ happen across the city and attract thousands of people.
17. A ‘Pee Patrol’ is appointed to catch hold of the people who urinate on the streets. The funny thing is that this happens even after 17,000 portable toilets are installed around the city.
18. 25,000 jobs are created because of the carnival and around £420 million of revenue is generated by the hotels and bars.
19. Celebrations of the Carnival are held in Sao Paulo, Olinda, Manaus and Porto.
20. Each year, this greatest and the most magnificent Carnival on Earth attracts celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and PSY.
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June 28, 2014
So you love Coffee?!

Do you think yourself as a coffee freak who just feels refreshed only after having that cup of hot coffee? Don’t worry, as your love for coffee is not in vain, rather it has some good things to offer. Go on, and discover the reasons why having that refreshment cup is good for you and you can continue with it without feeling guilty for the caffeine craving. There won’t be any person in this big world who hasn’t tasted coffee. Coffee and caffeine are most common and widely used substance used psychoactive substance used in the world. Many researchers have found that drinking two to four cups of coffee has many health benefits. Coffee was discovered around 850 A.D. in Ethiopia and after that it has become the world’s most popular beverage. Coffee is believed to be a good source of antioxidants and many studies have found that it elevates the mood, stop headaches, reduce cavities, improves athletic performance and yes, of course, is also helpful in reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes, gall stones and Parkinson’s disease. Coffee is something that can be pretty amazing for your brain, skin and your body. Don’t believe me? Have a look on these brimming coffee benefits, enlisted below and know about this super awesome beverage.

Just the Smell of coffee can reduce Stress: The aroma of coffee is such a stress-busting therapy. If you have been stressed or feeling anxiety due to non-sleepy nights and sleep deprivation, just the smell of coffee can make you feel better. The fragrance is so refreshing that it will be such a boost to your mood and mind and then drinking coffee is always so good. Give it a try and feel yourself.

Coffee can fight depression and makes you feel happier: It has been found in a research study that people who drink two to four cups of coffee are less likely to suffer from depression than the ones who never had it. Coffee helps in the upliftment of mood and makes you feel happy and also reduces the chances of suicide in a human being because it has slight antidepressant properties. The proposed reason for this is the presence of those healthy antioxidants that makes you feel light and healthy and happy.

Coffee can make you more intelligent and keeps your brain healthier: Usually, one drinks coffee when he feels tired or stressed, and just a cup can make you feel lively and alert because it boosts your energy levels and makes you smart. It has been reported by CNN that coffee allows your brain to work in a more efficient and smarter manner. It is linked with intelligence because when you take your cup of coffee, you somehow feel more alert and your reaction time, vigilance, logic and attention increases; things which are associated with intelligence and that is the reason you should not underestimate the cup of coffee.
Coffee improves your physical performance and makes you good athlete: Drinking Coffee increases the adrenaline levels in the blood, which is a hormone designed to make our bodies ready for physical exertion and also releases the fatty acids from fat tissues. It is mainly helpful in endurance sports and thus helps in improving the athletic performance. Because of this reason, it is recommended to have a strong cup of coffee one or half hour before workout as it will give a jolt to your athletic performance or gym workout.
Coffee can lower down the risk of Cancer: Cancer is the most deadly disease in the world and is caused due to uncontrolled growth of cells. Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of skin cancer, especially in women and also helps in lowering the risk of liver cancer or colorectal cancer. So, drinking coffee can prove to be really good against this disease.
Coffee drinkers have lower risk of developing Type II Diabetes: Diabetes and increased levels of insulin and elevated blood sugar levels has become a most common problem in today’s world, affecting almost 300 million people in the world. But it has been found in many observational studies that coffee drinkers are at much lower risk of having Type 2 diabetes than those who don’t have it. So, it is actually good if you fancy this drink.
Coffee may protect you against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease: These diseases have become the most common neurodegenerative disorders in the people specifically above 65 years of age. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for it, but yes, with some precautions you can lessen the symptoms of these diseases. Drinking coffee is one of them and it can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by 65% if you are a regular coffee drinker. Though eating healthy is important, but coffee can prove to be incredibly effective in lowering the risk.
Well, what are you thinking now? Amazed with all these perks of COFFEE. The best part of this beverage is that almost everyone loves to have and is completely affordable and tasty too. Moderation is the key and then you are free to enjoy the benefits. Afterall, Brewing that great cup has always been Exciting.

Keep drinking it. Keep loving it.

June 28, 2014
FIVE ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR HEALTHY SKIN AND WHERE TO FIND THEM!!

Skin-care is probably the most overrated issue in our life. With the flooding of creams, face-washes and other products in the market, beauty is arguably the most profit-generating venture. There are day creams, night creams, anti-aging, wrinkle-lift, fairness creams, cold-creams and what not!! I am sincerely waiting for noon creams, evening creams, summer creams, spring creams and most importantly, anti-dumbness creams. When all these creams don’t suffice, people flock to the parlors and salons for various treatments like bleaching and de-tanning.A little application of moisturizers and sunscreens is necessary for protecting our skin. Agreed!! Also,messages are very helpful in improving blood-circulation to the skin and relaxation. Agreed again!! But at the same time,there is a hoard of unnecessary products in the market that are simply aimed at duping huge sums of money from people.. The photo shopped images of celebs and models further push people towards parlours and beauty-treatments. The drive for that radiant flawless skin has never been stronger. Ironically, when the drive for looking younger and prettier is stronger than ever before, people have forgotten the essentials of ever-lasting beauty. In fact, the secrets of beauty are highly mis-understood.The old adage- You become what you eat, is long forgotten!! This leads to many problems like premature-aging,chemical burns etc. The safest and the longer-lasting ways to a healthy, glowing skin is probably the easiest too- eating right, exercising and protecting from sun!! So, let me take you to a tour into the beautiful kingdom of delicacies that will make your skin glow like never before!!

1. VITAMIN E

When our body comes in contact with external influences like Sun exposure, chemicals etc., some molecules constituting our body get oxidized and produce free-radicals. Free-radicals are extremely unstable molecules and they take electrons from neighboring molecules to gain stability. This induces a chain reaction that produces more such radicals, thereby causing severe damage to skin cells and collagen, the main structural protein of our body. This results in aging, fine-lines and wrinkles. Our body thus needs antioxidants that neutralize free radicals. Vitamin E is an extremely powerful antioxidant and thus, the route to longer youth. It is found in avocado, almonds. Hazelnuts, corn oils etc.

2. VITAMIN C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an elixir for your skin. Vitamin C is known to aid the production of Collagen, the main structural protein that makes up for about 25-35% of the whole body protein content. Collagen strengthens the capillaries supplying the skin and also helps in cell growth. Thus, Vitamin C is essential for skin repair and maintenance. Moreover, Being an anti-oxidant, it is also known to neutralize the free-radicals. It also reduces the effects of long-term effects of sun exposure like skin cancers. The main sources of Ascorbic acid are – Guava, Oranges, Lemons, Strawberries, Blueberries and other citrus fruits.

3. ZINC

Zinc is the goldmine of skin benefits. It is primarily responsible for carrying out repair work. Sebum is an oily secretion by sebaceous glands to keep our hair and skin moisturized. When secreted in excess, it can cause a variety of problems like Acne. Zinc helps counteract the damage to skin caused due to acne by reducing the amount of sebum secreted and repairing the scarred skin around acne. Zinc is one of the main constituents of almost all Sunscreen products because it provides protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s anti-cancerous properties further reduces chances of skin cancer due to repeated exposure of sun. It is also important for a healthy scalp and provides protection against skin ailments such as burns, boils, eczema etc. Zinc is found in abundance in fish, meat, whole grains, nuts, sea-food, seeds etc.

4. OMEGA-3 AND OMEGA-6 FATS

Omega-3 fatty acids particularly, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) regulate oil production in the body and keeps your hair and skin hydrated. Without these essential fats, your scalp and skin will become dry and flaky. Apart from this, these fatty acids are very powerful anti-oxidants as well and thus, protect our skin from free-radical damage. They are also associated with skin maintenance and repairs and have anti-inflammatory action. For this reason, they are used for providing relief in skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis etc. They, however, cannot be produced by body and has to be obtained from outside. Chief sources include- flax-seed oil, linseed, walnut and rapeseed oil.

5.LOW GI-CARBS

Clear skin-tone, freedom from acne and a slim waistline, you name it and you have it!! Low GI carbs are your one-stop solution to all beauty-related problems. As opposed to high GI carbohydrates like sweets, potatoes etc. , low GI carbs release sugar in the blood-stream slowly. This makes you feel full for longer duration and also, helps avoid a situation known as hyperinsulinemia (excess of insulin in blood)which is often associated with acne. The main sources of low GI carbs include beans, pulses, porridge etc.

Once you start regulating your diet to include these products, you would feel a new re-flux of energy in your life. But don’t be too impatient. It takes about 6 weeks for a new layer of epidermal cells to form on your body. So, the diet changes would also take as much to provide visible results!! A little care and control today can guard your beauty forever!!

June 28, 2014
Touring Manipal and around

A university town located within the temple city of Udupi, Manipal has a vivacious history attached to it. Once, just a barren land with deserted roads, this town now boasts of a university campus spread across 600 acres and an astir crowd from all possible corners of the country and the world alike. The town derives its name for ‘Mannu palla’ which means Mud Lake, in Kannada and Tulu (the native languages) that is located in the centre of this town. Manipal is now a melting pot of cultures, languages and religions and if nothing else it boasts of an overlapping mosaic of cultures and provides the perfect atmosphere for the holistic development of an individual. With majority of the population being academia viz. students, professors and researchers, this town is not only a knowledge power house but also a house to various national achievements in fields of engineering, medicine, architectures, arts like culinary skills, jewelry designing and various other sciences. Manipal, as what we know it to be today is the brain child of the visionary, Dr. T.M.A. Pai who first established the Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Campus in 1953 and then the Manipal Institute of Technology 5 years later.

As a member of the student fraternity here in Manipal, I feel extremely nostalgic just at the mere mention of its name. Manipal has something about it that eddies around you forever and gets stuck in your mind like the breeze that blows amok.

This place is not just a town with architectural marvels in the form of its beautiful campus buildings, but it showcases the perfectly congruous existence of nature with man-made elements. Where on one side it brags about state-of-the art libraries, innovation centres, academic buildings, museums and planetariums, it also houses a plethora of picturesque destinations to visit. Manipal is currently twinned with Loma Linda, California as its sister city.

They say, “No trip to Manipal is complete without watching the sunrise or the sunset from the gorgeous cliff overlooking the Swarna river, called the End point.” They even say that this is where it all began. Stand at the edge of the cliff, and you can see the Arabian Sea in the western horizon and the Western Ghats in the eastern horizon. A paradise for trekkers, joggers, environmentalists and photographers, this place is a total respite from the rigorous student lives of the Manipal University students. Once a barren land, this place has now received a facelift with a beautiful garden and umbrella sheds lining the lush green route.

Located in the heart of the town is the Manipal Lake, that was formed as a result of continued extraction of clay and mud from the same spot for manufacturing tiles. The pit that would collect rain water and look like a pond during the monsoons, soon was developed into a gorgeous lake.

The Railway Bridge is my favourite get away spot. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy town life, this place offers a serene atmosphere for relaxing, busting the stress and maybe introspecting too! You may have your momentary adrenaline rush when a train or two pass through shaking the entire bridgre and blowing wind at a tremendous speed. Remember to hold on to the railings when you see a train approaching!

Manipal also has its own mini water falls at Dashrath Nagar. Also known as the Arbi Falls, these are tiny streams of forceful flowing water over moss-covered rocks. They do not possess height but one can find a multitude of flora and fauna in the forest surrounding these crystal clear waters. Many other tourist spots around Manipal make this place a treat to the travelers’ heart.

1.)    Udupi– Derived from the Tulu name, Odipu, this city is famous as the Temple City. It is famous for the Krishna Mutt (temple of Lord Krishna) that attracts scores of tourists and locals on a daily basis. Udupi seems to be synonymous with delicious vegetarian food all over the world. It is a must visit for a divine experience.

2.)    Kudremukh– It is a mountain range and name of a peak located in Chikkamagaluru district, located 88 kms away from Manipal. Kudremukh literally means horse-face in Kannada, in context to the beautiful view of a side of the mountain that resembles a horse’s face. It offers about 13 trekking routes ranging from tough to easy, so do carry your trekking gear along!

3.)    Gokarna– Gokarna meaning Cow’s Ear has a legend that says Lord Shiva had emerged from the ear of a cow (Prithvi, the Mother Earth) here. Also, its location at the ear-shaped confluence of two rivers Gangavali and Aghanashini, lends it, its name. Gokarna attracts people of all tastes because of its clean sands, blue sea, multitude of flora and of course, its’ temples.

4.)    Murudeshwara– Murudeshwara is another name for Hindu God, Shiva. The towering statue of Lord Shiva is the second highest statue of the deity after the one in Nepal. The Murudeshwara temple and the Raja Gopura are a must visit too.

5.)    Beaches– A stay at Manipal and you do not visit the beaches? Well, not happening!

a.)    Malpe: An important natural port and a fishing harbor, Malpe is located at the mouth of the Udyavara. It is a beach town that pleases the eyes and the photographers’ lens alike. St. Marys’ Island, also known as Coconut Island and Thonsepar, are a set of four small islands in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Malpe. Studies reveal that the basalt formation of these islands is a result of sub-aerial volcanic activities, for back then Madagascar was attached to India. According to a legend, Vasco Da Gama first landed on these islands on his voyage from Portulag and named one of these islands as O Padrão de Santa Maria, as a dedication to Mother Mary.

b.) Kaup (Kapu): Kaup, pronounced as Kapu beach is a famous beach in south Karnataka that is known for its’ lighthouse, crashing Arabian Sea waves and a strong breeze.

6.)    Coorg– Located around 120 kms away from Manipal it takes around two hours to get here. Also known as Kodagu, it is home to the native speakers of Kodava Language, although it is again a potpourri of religions and cultures thus offering you various linguistic options for communicating, from Tulu and Kannada to Konkani to Urdu, and of course English and Hindi too. Coorg is famous in the world for its coffee plantations and brave warriors. Make sure you include the following spots in your itinerary when you visit this agricultural district:

a.)    Talakaveri: Here is where the River Kaveri originates. The temple on the riverbanks here is dedicated to Lord Brahma, and is one of only two temples dedicated to Brahma in India and Southeast Asia.

b.)    Bhagamandala: Situated at the confluence of two rivers, the Kaveri and the Kanika and supposedly a third river, the Sujyothi, that is said to join from underground, makes this a must visit.

c.)     Nagarahole: A national park and wildlife resort; it is a treat to the eyes.

d.)    Iruppu Falls: A sacred spot in south Kodagu in the Brahmagiri hill range.

e.)    Abbey Falls: a picturesque waterfall 5 kms away from Madikeri. Also there are various temples to visit. With their marvelous architecture and glorious historic stories, these are more than mere spots of pilgrimage.

7.)    Agumbe– 49 kilometres or near about 1.5 hours of travelling away from Manipal, this small village is sometimes known as the ‘’Cherrapunji of the South.” Wikipedia states that “Agumbe is associated with rainforest conservation efforts, documentation of medicinal plants, tourism (trekking and photography), power generation through hydro electrics and promotion of cottage industry.” Besides this, Agumbe is home to various scenic waterfalls like the Jogigundi falls, Onake Abbi falls and Barkana Falls. The famous Sunset Point rests on one of the highest peaks of the Western Ghats on the Udupi-Agumbe Road, where on a fine evening, one can view the mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.

So, take a week off, pack your bags, take umbrellas, trekking shoes, camera and loads of comfortable clothes and fly to Mangalore, which is 63 kms away from Manipal. You can then take a bus to Manipal; Won’t cost you more than 90 rupees! Happy touring!

June 28, 2014