Sugar not so sweet

Ditching sugar in your diet has its own sweet long-term benefits like a beautiful, young skin and a toned body to match. Mumbai based nutritionist Naini Setalvad doles out hot tips and nutritious alternatives of the sweet devil in disguise. By Trupti

The ‘sweet’ skin sinner
Now what is the relation between sugar and skin you might ask, but some dermatologists believe that avoiding sugar can fend off ageing signs like wrinkles and sagging skin. Naini says, “Sugar robs our bodies of vital nutrients, vitamins, minerals and weakens the basic foundation of our health, right from our immunity to our bones and our skin.”

So, when you consume sugar-rich foods, the level of sugar in the blood rises and some of the sugar binds to the collagen, the protein that gives our skin its firmness and structure. This causes ‘glycation’, a process which leads to a loss of flexibility and elasticity in the collagen, making you look older. Plus, the risk of obesity and high sugar levels leading to diabetes is always there.

So, if you’re aiming for glowing skin, toned body and a healthier life, it’s worth getting your sugar facts straight to age-proof yourself with an anti- sugar action plan, right? Well, we make it easy and lay it all down for you…

Watch what you eat
Swap sugary cereals, croissants and muffins for sugar free muesli, oatcakes and granary toast. They are perfectly healthy options to start your day with. Instead of your daily dose of sugar laden tea and coffee opt for green tea. It is a great detoxifying drink and is available in wonderful fragrant flavours.

Needless to say, fizzy drinks, sweets and biscuits have to go, inspite of its deceiving feel good quality. Also, keep a check on the ingredients list when you’re buying packaged and processed food; they’re mostly filled with sugar.

Evaluate the sugar alternatives
If you’re ditching sugar, don’t go overboard with brown sugar as they contain the same 20 calories per teaspoon as white sugar, with no nutrient value in either of them. And before you head towards calorie free sweeteners, think twice. “Even though they are sold in the market, independent studies have found their consumption leads to an array of health problems and yes, even weight gain as they cause more cravings for instant sugar.” So steer away!

Honey or jaggery seems to be a healthier option instead of the above, say experts. But Naini recommends, “While, both honey and jaggery are slightly better and best if organic, don’t think you can have them in large quantities as they are both concentrated forms of calories and in fact have slightly more calories than sugar. True, they do come with small doses of iron, but it’s better to get your iron from other healthier, less calorific sources like leafy greens and beetroot!”

The best option is to blend and puree fresh fruit and substitute it for half of the white sugar in recipe. Applesauce and maple syrup are also great alternatives for their natural goodness.

Fruity treat
One of the best ways to satisfy your sweet tooth is naturally with fruits or dried fruit, Kiwis, custard apple or cherries that are packed with Vitamins and are a healthy way to retain your sugar levels. The good news is that fruit sugar or fructose present naturally in fruit is not only sweeter than sugar, it can be even digested very slowly and does not give the spike in blood sugar after eating.

So before you surrender to sweets, think again, you may be doing yourself more bad than good. It’s better to refrain instead!

Let it burn!

Want to serve up some exotic flaming cocktails at your New Year party? Omkar Watve, Director, Boozers n Shakers, a school of bar and beverage management, puts together a few fashionable and easy recipes, deliberately set on fire! By Trupti S

FLAMING HAWK
Keep an eye on the flaming hawk. It’s sure to set you flying high with delectable, blazing ingredients!

INGREDIENTS
30ml Sambuca
15ml Blue Curacao
10ml Cream liqueur
10ml Coffee liqueur

METHOD
1. Pour the Sambuca and the Blue Curacao into a small martini glass and the cream liqueur and coffee liqueur into two test tubes.
2. Flame the Sambuca and pour it into the test tube. Suck it with the help of a straw, with the flame still on.

BLAZING TOWER
This is one tower you won’t mind burning. The delicious and extremely potent flavours of orange flavoured vodka with cranberry juice are sure to leave your taste buds tingling for more!

INGREDIENTS
60ml Orange flavoured vodka
100 ml Cranberry juice

METHOD
1. Place a tall glass upside down in the centre of a pasta bowl, and then place a shot glass upside down over the tall glass.
2. Pour the juice into the plate. Flame the vodka in a shot glass and pour it slowly over the inverted shot glass into the plate. Sip the mix from the plate with a straw.

BMW
No, we aren’t talking about the car. BMW is an acronym of the ingredients that we use to whip up this delicious cocktail. Like its namesake, it is stylish and sure to set your pulse racing once you get a taste of it. Aye Carumba!

INGREDIENTS
20ml Baileys
20ml Malibu
20ml Whisky

METHOD
1. Float the Baileys & the whisky over the Malibu in a shot glass.
2. Flame the mix and sip it with the help of a straw with the flame on.

Remember to be careful
You always have to be careful when you play with fire and that holds true for these flaming cocktails as well. Make sure you keep in mind:

1. Girls, while preparing and even drinking the flaming cocktails, ensure your hair is in place and not running all wild. You don’t want your crowning glory to catch fire now, do you?
2. As mentioned in the methodology, do not drink these drinks directly. Always use a straw. Or else, once you flame the cocktail, let it burn for some time and then blow it off. The effect may not be as dramatic but the taste will remain more or less the same.

How much mush is too much?

Women are supposed to love all things mushy but what happens when it turns creepy? Aanchal Sethi speaks to three women with extra mushy partners who tell us why it just didn't work for them

“Flowers can’t always be the solution for everything”
Sonu Dhar, a designer, tells us about her sappy trauma. “Whenever my husband and I fought, he used to turn up on the doorstep with a bunch of roses. It was sweet at first but every time? Sure, flowers are romantic but they are also so clichéd.”

“Once, after we had a big fight, I told him about my growing apathy towards roses. He seemed to understand but to my surprise he turned up with a bag of greasy chicken wings as an apology! He thought it was a cute way of saying sorry but I was on a strict diet and he knew it! This was not what I expected and it really turned me off.”

“He just couldn’t keep his hands off me!”
When Akshata Acharya, a stylist, started going out with her boyfriend, she loved the shower of affection that came from him. However, soon he started getting too clingy and landed up irritating her.

“The first few weeks were great and my boyfriend seemed to be the sweetest and the most considerate guy. But as we got closer, he was all over me all the time! It’s not that I don’t like holding hands or the occasional peck on the cheek in public. But he went all out with the ‘OTT PDA’ and that made me really uncomfortable. I dropped a few subtle hints but he didn’t get it, till I firmly put my foot down.”

“My fairy-tale turned into a nightmare”
Smita Gole, an event organiser, relates how her so-called fairy-tale went wrong.

“When I saw him for the first time at work, I knew I was in love. The symptoms were typical, butterflies in the stomach and sleepless nights. And when I got to know that he liked me too, I was on cloud nine! Eventually we got talking and became friends. This continued till my birthday five months later.”

“I had a clue that he was planning a surprise. On the eve of my birthday at 11.55 pm, he was standing outside my balcony along with my friends, all of them holding bouquets in their hands and singing ‘Happy Birthday’ for me.”

“It seemed all dreamlike but the night wasn’t over yet. We went to our friend’s house where there was another surprise. The whole room was decorated and there was a big cake on the table. It was all going perfectly until he suddenly came out of the other room with his chest covered in blood! I screamed in fear and shock. He was calm and sweetly said ‘Don’t worry, its nothing’. He wiped the blood and there it was, my name etched on his chest with a knife! He knelt on his knees, took out a ring, and said ‘My life and death are yours from now, I want to start a new life with you, will you marry me?’

All I could manage was ‘NO, I will not marry you’. My so called fairy-tale had turned into a creepy nightmare in a matter of seconds.”

Mush works wonders…in moderation. Too much can be scary, as these women found out. If you are facing a similar situation, don’t get intimidated, we suggest talk it out. If that doesn’t work, get yourself out!

Foodbytes: A Christmas in the Desert

You can take the English out of England, but you can't take the custard out of the English! Sally Prosser, the creator of My Custard Pie is a forty something British expat who has been living in Dubai for over a decade now. Speaking of her culinary experiences in the Middle East, Sally says that in spite of living in temperatures of over 40 C at times, her British origins dominate her culinary preferences.

A marketing communications consultant and mother of two teenage girls, Sally finds the urge to feed people she loves almost overwhelming. With Santa right around the corner, we were curious to know how this Brit celebrates Christmas in sunny Dubai. Reliving her Christmas memories is Sally Prosser, in conversation with Rajani Mani

Tell us about Christmas in your childhood.
“My father was Polish and my mother English, so my sister and I revelled in the excitement of having two celebrations as Poles mark the occasion on Christmas Eve. We’d all exchange kisses in exchange for a piece of Communion wafer (Oplatek) until there was none left and then eat from a copious spread. We children would often prepare entertainment and I remember many hilarious magic shows. Exhausted, we’d fall asleep as soon as our heads touched the pillow but would wake early to crawl down the bed in the dark to feel a knobbly stocking of presents; the start of another lovely day celebrating with our English relatives this time.”

What was a typical Christmas fare, in your childhood?
“On Christmas Eve our meal would always include fish and Russian salad and my Aunt’s delicious Coffee Walnut Cake. Christmas dinner on the 25th was the usual turkey, roast potatoes and my mother’s heavenly roast parsnips.”

How do you celebrate Christmas in Dubai?
“Dubai is very tolerant of most religions, and Christmas is embraced with gusto and at this time hotels and shopping malls are resplendent with decorations and Santa’s grottoes. Although we do miss our family back home, we have developed our own traditions. After opening presents we meet with a few families on the beach and sit in deck-chairs around a tiny tree with a glass of bubbly. We then move on to someone’s home, taking turns to host, but largely everyone contributes to the food as each has their own ‘must have’ dish.”

What’s the one Christmas tradition you never skip?
“Having our two daughters sing carols at our bedroom door and bringing us a cup of tea at 7am (and NO earlier)! Plus even if we are eating at someone else’s house, I always cook a small turkey for our family, to make the house smell great and for turkey leftovers!”

What else smells good for Christmas?
“My very special mulled wine, warming on the stove, filling the house with its scent. It has a secret ingredient which smells divine.”

Christmas menu will be incomplete without…?
“I think it’s the ‘trimmings’ that make the Christmas menu special. For me fresh cranberry sauce, bread sauce, bacon-wrapped chipolata sausages and at least two different stuffing are essential. I like this fragrant lemon, herb and pistachio stuffing cooked separately (rather than in the bird) so my vegetarian daughter can enjoy it. It has ingredients of the Middle East but tastes very English so I think it’s spot on for our Dubai celebrations.”

LEMON, HERB AND PISTACHIO STUFFING
(This quantity would stuff a 1.4 kg bird if you wanted - it goes well with chicken.)

Ingredients
25g butter
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
125g fresh white breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons fresh parsley and thyme, finely chopped (or any fresh herbs of your choice)
zest of one lemon, grated finely
a squeeze of lemon juice
25g skinned pistachio, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper
1 egg

Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180 C.
2. Melt the butter in a non-stick pan and heat until it foams, then cook the onions and garlic gently for about 10 minutes, until soft and golden. Allow to cool in a bowl.
3. To this mixture add the breadcrumbs, herbs, lemon zest, juice and pistachios. Season generously.
4. Beat the egg and add just enough to bind the stuffing together.
5. Put in an oven-proof dish (unless stuffing a bird with it) and bake for 20-30 minutes until slightly browned on top. Enjoy the aroma. If you want to use this later, it can be frozen at this point.

For more delicious English fare from an expatriate’s kitchen, drop by Sally’s blog My Custard Pie (http://www.mycustardpie.com/)

Glam up with nail extensions!

Don't have great nails? Forgot to grow them in time to flaunt them for that happening New Year or wedding party? Fret not! Just walk into one of those specialty nail bars and opt for extensions to look like a diva in no time, says Dharini Turakhia, the owner of Fahrenheit, chain of Unisex L'Oreal Salons and Spas

Is it for me?
Nail Extension is the latest beauty treatment to take Indian fashion by storm. No longer meant only for the rich and famous, nail extensions are freely available and enjoyed by women everywhere. Nail extensions are artificial or fake nails that work towards lengthening, thickening or altering the appearance of your own nails. So if you suffer from brittle nails, are a habitual nail biter or just want to make a fashion statement, then nail extensions are just the thing for you.

Do I go acrylic or gel?
Acrylic nails are more popular the world over, probably because they have been around for longer. However, the Indian market is leaning more towards gel nails. This is because gel nails are lighter, more flexible, more natural looking, do not yellow, and most importantly, are easier to remove and cause less damage to the natural nail. Acrylic nails are better for pregnant women as they do not use the UV rays for curing the nails, unlike gel nails. Also, nail art is easier on acrylic nails and can carry 3D art like small leaves, laces, glitter etc. with ease.

Fit them on!
Ideally you need to get a manicure or pedicure done before you get nail extensions as this will take care of the cuticle bed and reduce the chances of fungal infections. The manicure is followed by a nail prep which removes the moisture and oil from the natural nail. A nail tip is chosen for each finger to ensure the closest possible match to the natural nail shape. A primer is applied and the nail tip is fixed on. An acrylic or gel coating is applied to this tip to give it strength and durability. The nails are then buffed to blend the coating and make it look as natural as possible. A final shine buff is followed by a nail polish which lasts much longer on the artificial nail than it would on your natural nails!

Take good care of these beauties
Nail extensions require maintenance every 2-3 weeks as the natural base of the nail grows out, leaving a gap between the cuticle and the nail extension. This gap is in danger of being filled with fungus and bits and pieces of things will keep getting stuck as the gap widens. But fear not, it is easy to fill the gap by using an acrylic or gel coating in that area and then buffing it to give the nails a smooth finish. The actual nail tips however will last for a maximum of 3 months, after which it is advisable to get a fresh set of extensions done.

Nail art
With the ongoing bridal season and Christmas and New Year around the corner, it would be a great idea to add on some nail art to your nail extensions. You can totally unleash your creativity as nail art comes in a plethora of mediums. It can be in the form of two toned nail paint, nail stickers, an insertion of rhinestones, glitter powder, flowers, and complicated designs with nail paints. You could also insert letters of the alphabet to form a word meaningful to you or insert symbols of big brands like GUCCI, YSL etc. The designs can be further highlighted with glitter and a glossy topcoat. Let your imagination run wild!

Defy age with ginger

Antiseptic, digestive, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, aphrodisiac, carminative...you name it and the medical epithet fits the ginger root! But the fact that it keeps youth on your side is probably its most attractive benefit. Gaynor Borade gets to the bottom of this root and tells you how to incorporate it in your diet

The root of its goodness
Popularly referred to as the ‘synergetic’ herb in Ayurveda, the root is a storehouse of medicinal properties. In fact, its medicinal value is appreciated in different cultures across the globe. So what exactly makes this wondrous root so unique in qualities and versatile in application in today’s day and age?

Mumbai based nutritionist and dietician Dr. Dalal says, “In general, ginger is good for almost everything. It boosts immunity and promotes good health.” The best part is that it’s so easy to obtain and it enhances the flavour of any recipe!

God’s gift to womankind
Research reveals that ginger contains volatile oils and phenols which hold medical benefits that are especially good for women. With stress levels hitting the roof, ageing signs set in at a very early age. Ginger is considered extremely beneficial for its anti-ageing properties and its ability to reduce natural hair loss. All you need is a daily intake of either ginger powder in green tea or fresh ginger extract in just about any meal preparation and you’re sorted.

That’s not all; just a daily dose of a tablespoonful of ginger extract and honey can even soothe your menstrual cramps. Ginger is also considered effective in reducing morning sickness during pregnancy, without causing any drowsiness. In addition, it’s great for the libido and controls your body odour!

Winter comforter
During winter, ginger is almost like a comforter that effectively promotes immunity to cold and cough. It is also a natural cure for patients of osteoarthritis, heartburn and rheumatism which get aggravated during the cold. Dr. Dalal says, “The sap of the ginger root is potent with anti-inflammatory properties that keep many age-related health developments like rheumatism and arthritis in control. The herb can be boiled in water to form a concentrate and consumed every morning with a cup of herbal tea to put aches and pains to rest.”

Be a ginger gourmand
Ginger can easily be incorporated in your daily diet. In fact, when added to food, it whets your appetite. The food market is now replete with green ginger wine, ginger candy, crackers and ginger ale, ginger spice tea, ginger rhizome stew with honey and ginger capsules. And if you want to explore beyond the bottled or packed ready-made options in the market, we suggest a few recipes to bring ginger goodness onto the dining table.

Ginger tofu soup
(Serves 4)

Ingredients
11/2 cup vegetable stock
1/2 cup water
2tbsp cut mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped carrot
100 grams tofu
2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground ginger
Finely chopped coriander or dill
Rice noodles
Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
1. Bring the vegetable stock, water, carrots and mushrooms to boil.
2. Once the carrots are cooked, add ginger and allow the broth to boil for about ten minutes.
3. Add the tofu and let the soup simmer for a while.
4. Add rice noodles. Simmer until they are soft.
5. Top with coriander or dil leaves.
6. Add the black pepper and salt.
7. Serve hot.

Aloe ginger drink
(Serves 2)

Ingredients
2 tsp of finely grated ginger
1 cup each of orange and pear juice
2 ounces of fresh aloe vera juice
Salt, black pepper, lime and honey to taste
Water if required

Method
1. Blend the orange and pear juice together.
2. Add finely grated ginger and the fresh aloe vera juice.
3. Add a dash of lime, salt, black pepper and honey. Indulge anytime!

Can you forget that wildest affair of your life?

You may be married, engaged, a mother of two but remember that wild crush, that swinging affair, the love that swept you off your feet? 3 Women share the wildest, most passionate past life loves that they have moved on and away from, but they appear every now and then to remind them of a strange old time. By Smita Singh

Cold Dish, Saucy Thoughts
“Even if it wasn’t for keeps, it certainly was an affair to remember - that crazy bike ride with him, my first encounter of the best kind, the kiss that was never topped. The list goes on and so do your thoughts,” says Madhuri Gaurav of her six month long passionate affair with a college mate years ago.

“I am actually doing great with my man - but there are times when we are sitting in a restaurant we have been to a million times, the waiter knows what we are going to order before we do, with basically nothing to talk about. I find my mind going to the crazy time when I would stand for hours waiting for him in the rain. I met him bunking almost all classes for six months till the professors sent a letter home! Of course I tore that apart and continued meeting him come exams, storms or complaints. We were in a small town where gossip ruled and lying and hiding from parents and relatives was adventuresome enough to make even an otherwise inconsequential romance appear absurdly intense! In comparison watching my husband dig into the same chicken he orders every week seems so dull that I could tear my hair, of course never in my dreams would I let it show!”

Blame it on the Dry Spell
There are enough times when the physical craving for that fervent past becomes overwhelming to the senses so as to make your current rough dry spell feel intolerable by comparison. Vineeta knows what that is like, “We had this great romantic dating phase, but now after a kid, everything seems too safe, stable and incredibly stale really. I had this torrid, almost bordering on abusive relationship with this guy who was a common friend and I hate it when my mind goes back to him. Of course I realise that what I crave for is actually that mere slice of my life that I left behind, the thrill of discovery that is raw and new, the “forbidden fruit syndrome” as my friends call it! He was exciting, he was a wildly sexual man, and sex with him was actually a frenzied session where control was more important than connection. But In all the emotional chow-chow that marriage brings, I sometimes crave for that wild, disconnected satiating experience I know I want, but won’t go after ever.”

Love’s Labour Lost
Well the emotional roller coaster may be the bane of most marriages but then there are those relationships too that were so high on drama that living without that element might seem almost painfully dull. Aprajita knows that feeling only too well. “I think perhaps I have been single for too long, that’s what people tell me when I go into bouts of depression missing him, rejecting perfectly fine men. He was my superior at work. He was jealous, possessive but I never had a problem with that. I loved the passion with which he came to me after work, like he couldn’t wait. When we broke up- because he had to get married to the girl his parents chose for him, I was shocked that I never saw it coming. It was humiliating to be rejected like that, and I never want him back. But that resolve vanishes in moments when I am least prepared - a touch, a wrinkle on someone’s forehead, a perfume, a colour- it’s enough to make me dizzy with a desperate desire for him. It’s been years, but I can get drunk on the mere memory of his presence by my side.”

It is love, it is loss, it is life- sometimes you pass by all three unscathed and then there are those that pull you back mercilessly into a world that doesn’t exist anymore. Be wise, move on.

A merry meal: main course

A second in our three part series of delicious Christmas meals gives you delectable ideas for the main course. Remember, to create that memorable Christmas meal, you need to keep things simple, relax and have fun while cooking, writes Rajani Mani

For the main course, you can serve up steamy appams with chicken stew, with a vegetable variation for the vegetarians. Add on ghee rice, scotch eggs, dinner rolls, and a side of potato or green beans.

Appam

INGREDIENTS
2 cups rice flour
2 ½ cups water
¾ cup cooked rice
1 ½ cup thick coconut milk
4 tbsp sugar
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp yeast
¼ cup tepid water

METHOD
1. In a small bowl, place the yeast in ¼ cup water, for about 10 minutes till frothy.
2. Using a blender, grind the cooked rice with ½ cup water to a smooth paste. Transfer into a bowl.
3. In another bowl, combine the rice flour, sugar, cooked rice paste, and dissolved yeast, along with the coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water and whisk to a smooth, thick batter. Keep the batter overnight at room temperature to ferment. Right before making the appams, taste for sugar and salt and if needed, add some. The batter should be mildly sweet.
4. To make the appams, heat a small non-stick wok on a low to medium flame. Grease the wok with a little oil, pour about a ladleful of batter into the centre and swirl the wok to spread the batter thinly on the walls, the remaining batter will pool in the middle of the wok. Cover and cook for a minute or two until the centre appears well done and fluffy and the sides are crisp. Gently run a spatula under the appam to release it from the wok and serve hot with chicken or vegetable stew.

Chicken Stew

INGREDIENTS
1 kg chicken, cut and cleaned
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tsp ginger & garlic, chopped thinly
6 green chillies, slit open
5 cloves
1 piece cinnamon
2 cardamoms
8 to10 peppercorns
½ tsp fennel powder
½ tsp garam masala
½ cup thick coconut milk
1 ½ cups thin coconut milk
2-3 sprigs fresh curry leaves
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 tbsp or any cooking oil of choice
Salt to taste

METHOD
1. Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed pan, sauté some curry leaves and all the whole spices - cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and peppercorns. Now add the chopped ginger and garlic and sauté for a few minutes more, followed by the sliced onions and green chillies. Fry until the onions turn pink.
2. Add the chicken and cook over medium heat for about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Pour 1 ½ cups of thin coconut milk over the chicken and spices. Season with salt. Let the mixture come to a boil.
4. Sprinkle garam masala and powdered fennel over the chicken gravy and mix well. Add the cubed potatoes to the gravy. Stir and cover until the chicken and the potatoes are tender and the gravy thicker.
5. Turn off the heat, to the gravy add ½ cup thick coconut milk, a few fresh curry leaves, lemon juice and combine. Serve warm with appam or ghee rice.

Ghee Rice

INGREDIENTS
2 cups basmati rice
2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
1 medium onion, sliced thinly
2 pieces cinnamon
4-5 cloves
2 pieces cardamom
1 star anise, broken into bits
2 bay leaves
½ tsp fennel seeds
3 ½ cups water (to cook the rice)
Salt to taste

For the garnish
2 tbsp ghee
4 tbsp cashews
2 tbsp raisins
½ cup thinly sliced shallots

METHOD
1. Wash and soak the rice in water for about 20 minutes, drain and keep aside.
2. Heat the clarified butter in a heavy bottomed pan, and sauté the whole spices - fennel seeds, cinnamon, bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, and star anise. Next, add the onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the drained rice to the pan and stir fry for 6 to 7 minutes until the rice changes colour.
4. At this point add water to the pan along with salt and combine. Bring the rice to a boil. Reduce heat to a minimum, cover and cook until the rice is done and all the water has been absorbed.
5. Prepare the garnish by heating the remaining ghee in a frying pan. When the ghee is hot enough, fry the cashews to a light golden shade, remove and keep aside. Next, fry the raisins until they are plump, remove and set aside. Finally sauté the onions until they caramelise.
6. Add shallots. Mix half of the garnish into the cooked rice and sprinkle the rest on top. Serve warm.

A Christmas meal will be incomplete without the festive desserts. Next up, some sweet notes to end your Christmas with!

The art of being sexy

To exude oomph, you don't have to go short and clingy. Vidya Prabhu has got some tips to have you looking hot for the partying season without giving up on your air of mystery

Bulbul Hooda, 25, marketing professional
Best asset: Your legs

Style tips
- Wear dresses with design details that draw the eye down, such as border prints or a side or off-centre slit.
- This look works if you have lean legs. Avoid if you have thick calves.
- A nice pair of stilettos can add length to your legs.
- For an evening out, dab some makeup on your legs.

“I never thought such short numbers could work on me. I’m pleasantly surprised.”

Dress, Narendra Kumar for Creo, Rs 12,800; Cuff, Aldo Accessories, Rs 600; Over-sized clutch, The Oak Tree, Rs 8,800; Shoes, Trésmode, Rs 6,990

Manisha Dhingra, 26, writer
Best asset: Your back

Style tips
- You can wear a dress with a deep-scooped back neckline or one with a cowl neckline.
- Emphasise the back with dresses that have some form of embellishment-appliqué or embroidery-on the back.
- Wear your hair in an up-do, instead of leaving it open.
- Make sure your back is worth showing off by using moisturiser, and hide any tan lines with foundation.
- Wear the right bra-there are bras specially designed for backless dresses and some dresses have built-in support.

“I’ve realised that a dress with a well-cut back can work wonders for me. In fact, I think this dress makes me look hot and graceful at the same time.”

Dress, Ritu & Rochana at Fuel, Rs 9,000; Clutch, 500 BC, Rs 4,900; Bow ring, Aldo Accessories, Rs 600; Peep-toes, Trésmode, Rs 3,990

Eka Lakhani, 23, fashion stylist
Best asset: Your décolletage

Style tips
- Contrary to what you may think, this look works best if you have a modestly-proportioned chest.
- Wear an interesting neckpiece to draw attention to your cleavage.
- Embellishments or prints at the neckline will also have the same effect.
- Wear a deep V-neck if you are short, and a scooped, wide one if you are tall.
- Dab some bronzer on your cleavage for a tantalising shine.

“I always felt that an outfit with a low-neck would make me look vulgar. Not any more. I can now dare to wear such outfits and carry them off with élan!”

Dress, Geisha Designs at Fuel, Rs 10,200; Butterfly pendant necklace, Bansri Joallerie, Rs 5,600; Ring, Bansri Joallerie, Rs 2,850; Bracelet, stylist’s own; Hair band, Aza, Rs 2,800; Minaudiere, Mango, Rs 2,550; Sandals, Nine West, Rs 3,890

Photographs by Ryan Martis; hair and Makeup by Recinda Martis; Styling by Zeenat Hatim

Go for green this Christmas

Have an eco-friendly X'mas for a greener New Year! Ramya Iyer brings you some green ideas to have an extraordinary Christmas and care for the environment at the same time. Get your creative juices flowing

Wrap it with a punch line
If one collects the gift wrapping paper that gets wasted every year, the whole planet could probably be gift wrapped! This year, use the comics’ pages of the Sunday newspapers as gift wrap and present some extra reasons for giggles. Even old magazine pages are a good alternative. To make it more personalised, especially while wrapping gifts for your parents, you could use your old paintings and drawings. It’s sure to get them all nostalgic about your good old times together!

Numerous pamphlets, maps and brochures that are handed out to you on the streets have very good paper quality. You may use these for gift wrapping. Tape up a few together to create a patchwork design. Empty shoe boxes and other cardboard boxes are all time favourites too. Save some trees and get green gift wraps pronto.

Joy of giving
Gift yourself the joy of giving. Collect old clothes, toys, and other stuff from your neighbourhood or work place and hand distribute them to disadvantaged people. This will give you the satisfaction of personally aiding the needy and will be the source of a real high!

Green gifts
Try buying children battery-free toys; toys which have a manual mechanism, a keying mechanism or handmade wooden toys. If you are buying a present that uses batteries make sure you buy them with rechargeable batteries. E-cards instead of paper cards will be highly appreciated as well. They are just a click away and you can save so much on courier, money, and even your time!

Even seeds and small trees to be planted in the ground are wonderful gifts that will grow for years to come. This gift will never go out of fashion nor will it wear out.

Dress me green
You need enough light to guide Santa Claus to your home, not to heat up the whole planet. Use energy saving lights, 20W bulbs instead of 100W ones. Use strings of popcorn to decorate the Christmas tree. This is an inexpensive and eco-friendly idea. When Christmas is over, you can put the string outside for birds to eat. Make paper chains of magazines for additional decoration.

As for extra lights, you may consider using soy-based candles or candles made of beeswax. How about taking a new step in creativity and lighting beautiful colourful diyas for this year’s Christmas party? Your get-together will definitely be the talk of the town!

See the world through green-coloured glasses and start new ecologically-minded traditions this Christmas for the years to come! After all, what’s a better way to celebrate the season of giving than giving back to Mother Earth?

Gift a puppy this Christmas!

Thinking of presenting your little one, a friend or a family member with the perfect gift this Christmas? Gift a pup! As cute an idea as it may be, you will need to do a lot research before popping into a breeder's kennel. Chandana Banerjee tells you what to look out for

Give it some thought
“If this pup is a gift for your child, be sure that you’re ready to take on the extra responsibility,” says Shina Biswas, who recently got a dog for her son. Even if you assign certain chores to your child, you’ll have to do the major share of the looking-after.

Make sure that the family is ready to take on the additional costs that come with owning a dog. “They will have to spend on shots, dog accessories, chew toys, and dog food. A dog also needs exercise, potty training, and a lot of attention,” quips Sandeep Banerjee who has a pet. The family receiving the gift must be able to lavish time and money on the new puppy. They will also have to spend on making arrangements for the pup when they are out on holidays.

Wait and watch
If you are unsure about suddenly popping up with a puppy at someone’s doorstep, yet you really want to gift a puppy, consider these options:

- Instead of a real living puppy, why not present a gift certificate with a toy puppy and books on brining home puppies. If the family, friend or spouse is really interested in getting a real puppy, they can get a breed of their choice after weighing the pros and cons.

- You could also tell them about ‘this gift’ that you want to buy for them and talk things through. All of you can go together to the breeder to choose a puppy!

- Be very careful about where you buy your puppy from. There are several backyard breeders who run puppy mills and practice unethical breeding for money. It’s best to buy a healthy puppy from a family with a pet that’s just had a litter or from a breeder who keeps and breeds his dogs in a healthy, clean, and safe environment. Ask for the KCI papers and to see the parents of the puppy.

What the vet says
Dr. Krishna Kanth from Claws & Paws pet clinic, Hyderabad, says, “Get the puppy only when it is eight weeks old and has had enough time with the mother.” He also emphasised that prospective owners should make sure that the puppy has been de-wormed and the mother has received her vaccinations. “You must get the puppy checked by a vet before you buy it. We not only check the puppy’s overall health but also do specific tests to rule out deafness and eyesight problems. We also carry out behaviour assessment tests to check the socialisation level of the puppy.”

Looking after a puppy is a lot like looking after a baby. When you feel that the recipients of your gift are ready to take the plunge, go ahead and present them with a furry little bundle of joy!

Sexy and stylish in Rs. 2500 (India)

Haven't saved up for the perfect dress to hit the hot spots in? Don't fret, you can still dress to impress this party season. Fashion stylist Shruti Kothari suggests some ü ber cool looks for you well within Rs. 2500

Look 1: Fringed benefits
Perk up your style this festive season with fringes, they are back and how! One of the most popular styles, the fringe has been evoked to add flamboyance and fun to fashion. Go revolutionary with boho chic. A well cut skirt flaunts your curves and can be further spiced up with fringes in bright colours or neutral shades. Teamed with polka dots or stripes, fringes lend a great visual appeal to an ensemble.

Purple fringed skirt - Rs. 1200
Polka dotted top - Rs. 550
Beads - Rs. 70
Hair pin - Rs. 50


Total = Rs. 1970

Look 2: Flow boldly
Every designer is swearing by flowing, draping dresses in soft fabrics with funky prints and colours this season. They are perfect for dressing up in the holidays! Go in for neat bow blouses, especially the ones with billowing or bishop sleeves. These look particularly superb in silk or satin. Wear tons of jewellery, but remember to keep it clean and shiny. Don’t hold back; balance the softness with a bit of boldness!

Brown printed dress - Rs. 1300
Stone necklace - Rs. 350
Handbag - Rs. 600
Ring - Rs. 100

Total = Rs. 2350



Look 3: Ladylike and fun
We all love vintage in our wardrobes, the ripples of an era gone by. A rerun of the 1950s and 60s sees shapes that highlight curves and accentuate femininity. Very versatile and fun! Take a hip-hugging sheath dress with a just-below-the-knee hem and flaunt that hourglass figure. Full circle skirts in woollen blends (read Louis Vuitton and Prada, Fall 2010) that are clinched at the waist exude prim and proper style for this holiday season. Try our blue polka dotted mini dress. Take a cue from the gold rush this season…belts, earrings, handbags - it’s time to go bold with gold this New Year!

Blue polka dotted dress - Rs.1000
Earrings - Rs. 250
Waist let - Rs. 300
Clutch - Rs. 500

Total = Rs. 2050

Look 4: Bare that houndstooth
A hot 2010 trend, it’s stylish and if worn well, even a trend setter of sorts. Teamed here is a houndstooth skirt with a black camisole and a fuchsia pink short jacket to add that dash of colour. Thrown in as an accessory is a bowtie just to keep things chic! If you go in for one highlighted colour like purple along with black and white, then highlight the purple in your accessories. But if the print is just on one item of clothing, then unleash that creative beast in you and let it roll!

Jacket - Rs. 1000
Camisole - Rs. 150
Skirt - Rs. 850
Bow tie - Rs. 200
Hair band - Rs. 100

Total = Rs. 2300

Take your pick from any of these styles and look like a million bucks… without burning a hole in your pocket!

‘We need to talk!’

The fastest way to send your man packing is to say these four words! But sometimes talk is all you need, so how to get him to sit on that table with you? Clinical Psychologist Prachi S Vaish presents five ways to clinch this near-impossible task!

Change your words
Yes, you heard it right. If you want to make these four words work, don’t say them! Instead try a different approach. Broach the subject on your mind when he’s in a relaxed mood by hinting at it sideways. Say “Hey, do you think we could take a minute to discuss that issue?” or “Umm…I was wondering if I could get your thoughts on this thing on my mind….” Letting him know that you are actually looking forward to his take on something, will prevent his emotional barriers from going up and you will have a much more receptive partner.

Fix a date
Even though you’ve given him an open ended opportunity to talk, make sure you set a firm enough time for both of you, like “How about we take it up next Friday on a walk by the beach?” By mentioning a specific time, you’re letting him see that you’re serious about this and also not allowing him to procrastinate. In addition, mentioning a pleasant activity along with it doesn’t send warning signals to his brain that something might be wrong. We know all too well that an invitation to talk spells trouble for men!

Listen first
So you’re sitting down and he’s willing to give it a shot. But don’t let your mouth run away with the words straight off. If he has agreed to listen, then he should be given a fair chance to speak too. And wired as men are, it doesn’t cost much to let him have the first go, but earns you loads of brownie points! Just put the issue on the table in concrete words and let him voice his thoughts first. He might just be thinking about it the way you already are!

Keep things precise
Guys tune out when you stretch what you’re saying too much. So try to keep your expressions simple and accurate. Let him know what you expect and keep your demands reasonable. When you say what you want exactly, instead of a lot of ‘Umms…errs…the thing is etc.’ he really hears you out.

Stick to the issue
These ‘we need to talk’ sessions are meant to deal with something important that’s weighing on your mind. Do not use them to accuse him for past mistakes or oversight. You will end up flinging dirt at each other for hours and ultimately lose the actual topic along the way, for which you will need to schedule another session; and given your repeat nag-performances, your man will try to avoid them more and more and you’re back at square-one!

Propositioning your man tactfully and meeting the issue head-on can save a lot of time and hedging; just sit down and talk like adults and yours will be one of the very few men who love their conversations!

Top 6 luxury wheels for you!

Start drooling girls! With a slew of hot wheels having made their debut in India, there's a plethora of choices waiting to be explored. Anshum Mandore lists top 6 luxury cars just for you

Volkswagen Beetle
‘Aisha’ isn’t the only one who can own the gorgeous Volkswagen Beetle anymore. The Beetle fondly called ‘the bug’ made its stunning Indian debut late last year. Cute and stylish, its design turns heads on the street like few others do. With candy colours like red, yellow and lime green, it sure is a girly thing to own!
Price = Rs.19.50 lacs

Toyota Camry
The Camry does just about everything well. It’s roomy, quiet, comfortable, and built like the proverbial brick outhouse. The ideal vehicle for working mothers, the Camry is as spacious as ‘spacious’ gets. With its uber-classy styling and generous curves, this is one car that gets our winning vote.
Price = Rs.23.60 lacs

Audi TT Coupe
Girls with buying power, the Audi TT coupe is just the car for you. It’s all about a unique style and a comfortable ride. It has an all-wheel-drive system that provides the sort of all-weather traction that few small coupes offer. Of the TT’s most notable assets are its superbly crafted, sleek interiors which entice those enviable admiring glances.
Price = Rs.46 lacs

Mercedes Benz E-Class
You’ve worked hard. Now enjoy the Mercedes E-class which is the only practical way, we can see, to treat yourself right. It’s also the ideal car if you like to be driven around by a chauffeur. On the other hand, self-driving the E-class is a pleasure unlike any other!
Price = Rs.50 lacs

BMW Z4 Roadster
If speeding is your thing girl, the BMW Z4 Roadster is a head turner that will not disappoint. The classic proportions of the stretched bonnet and short overhangs are complimented by the low seats near the rear axle, sure to grant you a perfect feel of the road. What more could you ask for?
Price = Rs.59 lacs

BMW M6 Coupe
The M6 is a rare blend of classy looks, sporty lines, and a matching price tag. But women who know their cars well truly appreciate the excellent manoeuvrability and roomy interiors of this chic chariot. Aparna Dasgupta, proud owner of a deep red BMW M6 says, “The gorgeous handling and excellent features of my car has got me hooked forever.” The reason being, despite being a coupe, it has all the appeal and matured sexiness of a luxury sedan.
Price = Rs.1.35 crs

It can’t get more exotic

Parimita Chakravorthy gets you the dope on 4 most exotic and rather bizarre facial treatments from around the world and tells you where you can experience them.

1. Fresh Egyptian Mud Spa
Fresh Egyptian mud spa is considered the secret behind sensuous Cleopatra’s beauty. The mud is supposedly rich in vitamins A, E, and essential fatty acids. It dissolves easily in water and has a high concentration of amino acids, minerals, plant hormones and vitamins.

Mi Spa in Chicago treats you with this ancient beauty secret- fresh Egyptian mud facial! A little amount of mud is mixed with shea butter to get you the rejuvenating facial. This improves the complexion, relaxes facial muscles, removes toxins, opens pores on the skin and staves off wrinkles. It also has anti bacterial and astringent qualities, giving your skin a fresh, youthful and healthy glow.

2. Nightingale Excrement Facials
The Geishas from Japan are considered to be the archetype of feminine beauty all across the world. According to sources, the secret behind their beauty lies in a special ingredient which may sound eccentric. Yes, nightingale droppings it is. The droppings, which are applied as a mask with Japanese white clay, are completely safe and treated under UV light to remove bacteria.

Shizuka Bernstein from Shizuka, New York day Spa where the Geisha Facial is available says, “Since we introduced the Geisha Facial at Shizuka New York Day Spa, it has become incredibly popular. The story of the Geisha Facial has travelled around the world, and it has become one of our most-requested facials. I am so pleased that clients love this facial as much as I do, and I am happy to be able to bring a small piece of Japanese culture to them with each Geisha Facial.”

Applied in a 90 minute facial, the bird droppings are packed with an enzyme called guanine - an amino acid which brightens and cleanses the skin. It also detoxifies the pores and is best suitable to treat dull and sun-damaged skin. To increase the exfoliation effects, you can even mix the droppings with rice bran. “At the end of it all, women achieve a porcelain white quality to their skin,” claims Shizuka.

3. Snail Slime Moisturising Facial
The thought of snail slime facial on your face might make you gag but it is really effective in treating older and wrinkled skin. Dr Nick Lowe, consultant dermatologist at the Cranley Clinic in London says, “Snail slime contains some moisturising ingredients like allantoin that makes the skin soft. In addition, it has glycolic acid, a pretty universal agent in humans and animals that causes skin to become tauter and smoother.” It further brightens and revitalizes the skin and significantly diminishes age spots, marks and acne.

4. Fanny Facials for the Butt
Yes, we are talking about fanny facials to plump up those soft cheeks of your derriere. The facial that lasts for 90 minutes starts with a massage of the backside using exfoliating scrub. After cleaning the area from lower back to upper thigh, eight black post-it size adhesive pads are placed at points on each buttock cheek and two on each inner thigh. Wires from the Diamond Dynamic Waveform therapy machine are plugged into the pads.

“These pads give out Faradic currents and specific shaped waves for 45 minutes to break down fat which is followed by organic spray tan,” says Body Perfect owner Marilia Silva-Brand from Canada who has boosted hundreds of fannies. The end result: You have smoother, tighter and toned buttocks! You can avail this treatment at Smooth Synergy in New York too.

Vegetarian and globetrotting? Don’t despair!

food lover, travel enthusiast and vegetarian by choice, takes you on a culinary tour of the world where there's something delicious waiting for every global veggie traveller. . .

From the art district of Paris to the Thames waterfront in London, the slopes of Staad and the temples of Cambodia, the Indian traveller has left her footprint across the globe. But while meat eaters can indulge their palate, the choices are limited for the vegetarians. Or so we thought until now. Chhaya Momaya busts the myth and tells Salil Jayakar all about those scrumptious options vegetarians can choose from

France
The “go-to” city in the world for food; no one presents fare the way the Parisian chefs do! Don’t hesitate to ask for their signature dish without the meat, they’ll make it for you. From the luxurious Ledoyen to the chic Le Jules Verne - housed in the Eiffel Tower at an altitude of 125m - you’ll be served the finest vegetarian cuisine the way the French enjoy it. Still not convinced? Ask for a plate of the finest potato chips, done just right and as thin as straws!

United Kingdom
Head to The Waterside Inn, among the oldest three star Michelin restaurants, located in the picturesque village of Bray, an hour’s drive from London. Challenge the second generation Roux bothers run establishment and you’ll be surprised at what they conjure up. Worried that your food might be just a tad too bland? Simply ask them to “spike it up!”

Vietnam and Cambodia
Hard to believe as it may be, there are enough options here for vegetarians. Eat their typical rice dim sum on the streets or in the hotels, with your choice of vegetable fillings. On the streets, you’ll see the locals rolling out thin rice crepes that you can then fill with your choice of stuffing. Mix in their sauces, add a dash of vinegar and you’re in food paradise!

Switzerland
Home to the world’s finest cheeses, fresh vegetables and fruits, you’re likely to be spoilt for choice here. Head to Staad where the skiing slopes are and dine at a mountain hotel run by students from the world’s best Le Cordon Bleu schools. They’ll go all out to impress, serving original vegetarian dishes, cheese fondues and freshly roasted vegetables!

Mexico
A nation that won’t leave you hungry! Apart from their vegetable enchiladas and nachos, Mexicans also make their version of the Indian khakra. Made from corn flour, Mexican crackers are thin, square shaped and come in a variety of flavours. Stick to a cracker and cheese diet if you wish or head to a local shop and choose from a wide variety of vegetable pastes in spill-proof packaging that you can simply spread on!

Make it large!
- Even if you are vegetarian, be willing to experiment with the local cuisine. Flavours will be different, savour them.

- Wherever you go, try and adapt the food to your tastes. In Japan, ask for sushi with avocados, carrots and cucumbers instead of fish and shrimp. Similarly, in Egypt or Turkey, eat plenty of dates, nuts and vegetables.

- You can’t go wrong with a salad. All you need are fresh vegetables, a dash of vinegar, honey or chilli sauce for taste.

- You’ll find a superstore everywhere. Buy bread, cheese, spreads, vegetables, pepper and paprika to make your own sandwich or wrap.

- Visit the local markets for their unique variety of produce - vegetables and fruits you’re not likely to eat anywhere else. A local restaurant in such a market will serve up an authentic vegetarian meal which you are sure to enjoy. You’ll probably keep coming back for more!

5 worst bosses ever!

That toxic mentor, that lecherous superior at work, the one with the 'God Complex'...who is the worst boss of them all? Smita Singh draws up the graph of 5 worst Big Bad Bosses who add up to complete losses for your self-esteem, growth potential and that light as air wallet in your bag!

1. It Wasn’t Me
When the buck just never stops and the only thing trickling down is the weight of projects gone wrong, you know you are working with ‘The One That Never Owns Up’. And if you ever try to make him or her own up, you better have someone up there with an ear to listen, a sharp gaze to assess and a level head that knows justice- a pretty big task if you ask.

Tackle the monster: The only way to work with a shirker is to put it all down on paper and keep back-ups and make absolutely sure you had your ears clean and open and in working condition while taking down any ideas or instructions, good luck then!

2. I am the Chosen One
She or he is omnipotent, is the God of big and small things and never quits, and you have the dubious honour of serving The Chosen One. In control of her life and yours, her schedule and yours, this big boss has it all planned out- the exact words, the time, the place and the strategy. All you have to do then is to make her look good, and you better have some divine intervention on your side because pleasing her is no ordinary human chore!

Tackle the monster: You will never know or learn your own worth because you’ll probably never get to do any stuff yourself or the credit for it. So the trick here is to over-perform, make a show of what you do and make the person superior to your boss aware of your contribution.

3. Toxic Mentor
If you learnt the ropes form this one but find yourself tied in knots most times, it’s the toxic mentor keeping you in your place, preventing you from soaring high. So if you are flying blind and it keeps getting tough, it’s time to realize the mentor’s turned a jealous insecure enemy and is making sure that you fly into turbulent weather after moving the radars just a little bit.

Tackle the monster: Pay your respects and tip toe out before you ruin more than just the most important relationship of your professional life. Be sure to keep a few objective friends on your side because you may never know your true worth if you have stuck with this abusive relationship for too long - remember, it works for your mentor to keep you coming back for more. So don’t look down and fly away.

4. Nit Picker Supreme
If he’s picking your brains dry today about a fax you may or may not receive tomorrow, if she’s busy telling you how the right side of your desk is not as neat as the left side of your colleague’s, relax. They are a rare sub species of the geeko-perfectionist group, they not only know what they want, they know how they want it done down to the last tiny detail till you feel like an exhausted mechanical arm of a giant machine- with a mind of its own of course.

Tackle the monster: Just take a deep breath and stuff that scream where it came from. If you react to their nit picking, they tend to go full throttle and attack with renewed vigour, almost like a psycho lover. Instead, ignore their rants and play as cool as possible and do your own thing but do it well, this will most likely reduce their outbursts.

5. I am a Sinner and a Saint, Go figure!
It’s a mad mood world out there every morning and our sympathies with you for dealing with literally the worst boss ever. Your friend and philosopher one day, your worst foe the next, this one’s enough to drive you insane. Yes, the Academy of Management in the US identifies the ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ superior as the worst boss of all! So whether he got up on the wrong side of the bed, or she fought traffic, you are unfortunately the first one to find out.

Tackle the monster: Make a quick exit. There really isn’t any trick to handle this one other than moving on. But if you can’t get out, well…two’s company isn’t it?!

Perfect diet for the perfect bride

Planning and shopping for the wedding would have exhausted you enough! Take a chill-pill and pamper yourself prior to your wedding. Consultant Registered Dietitian, Preethi Rahul draws out a healthy pre-wedding diet plan for you!

Get lighter!
If you want to lose weight, start planning in advance. Don’t expect miracles from sudden crash dieting. Discuss with your dietician who can help you develop a weight loss plan that is safe and effective. Here are some quick weight loss pointers:

• Have breakfast every day and don’t skip meals.
• Eat a variety of foods (including plenty of whole grains, vegetables and fruits) to ensure that you get all of your daily nutrients.
• Limit your daily intake of saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.
• Limit the amount of sugar in your diet. High-sugar foods are often high in calories and low in nutrients.
• Limit liquid calories. Try to choose whole fruits rather than juices, and avoid sugary soft drinks and alcohol.
• Watch your portion size.
• Exercise on a regular basis. The best kind of exercise is exercise that you’ll keep doing, so choose an activity that you enjoy. Exercises could be brisk walking, cycling, swimming, aerobics or any combination workouts. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes, 4 to 6 times per week.

Eat to improve immunity and remain stress-free
Planning for a wedding definitely takes a toll on your health. Stress, anxiety, mood swings are the accompanying triggers! Your body can fight infections naturally but only to a certain extent. Here are certain foods that help to boost immunity and reduce stress…

• Colourful fruits and vegetables are rich sources of bioflavonoid which are antioxidants. They increase the infection fighting cells in the system and thus help body to ward off infections.
• Herbs and spices add a punch to your meal and help to fight infections. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of turmeric, fennel, pepper, coriander make them a popular choice to help deal with a spectrum of illnesses.
• Garlic and onions contain allicin, a sulfurous compound that has strong anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• The omega-3 fatty acids in flax oil and fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna and Mackerel) increase the activity of the white blood cells that destroy the bacteria, thus boosting the immunity.
• Ginger, lemon, oats, tea, yogurt and chicken soup are also known to improve the body’s immunity and keep stress at bay.

Eat to empower not kill your libido
Dim light. Strawberry and Cream. Champagne. Essential Oils. A warm Jacuzzi bath. Just you and him! Kindle that flame of romance with these aphrodisiacs. Also check out the foods that dampen your love life.

• Whole grains and bananas are rich in B vitamins that boost sexual performance. Almonds, Pumpkin seeds and salmon are rich in zinc, Vitamin E and essential fatty acids vital for sex hormone production.
• Celery stimulates a gland in the brain that controls sex hormones.
• Dark chocolate (foods containing at least 70% cocoa solids) contains phenylethylamine, which is referred to as a “love drug” because it acts a vasodialator. This quickens the pulse, increases blood flow to all the right places. It tricks the brain into thinking it’s falling in love and increases sexual desire. It is a mood enhancer.
• Berries, spinach, avocado are also aphrodisiac foods.
• Coffee, alcohol, refined and sugary foods are all libido crashers. So keep a check on them and have in moderation.

Be positive and enjoy your wedding to the fullest. After all, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Spice up your workout with Zumba!

Bored of endless sweating on the treadmill? It's time to give your exercise regime a much needed twist with Zumba - the dance inspired, total body workout. With hot dance moves and foot tapping Latin American and Caribbean beats, Zumba is exciting and fun! Chhavi Moodgal invites you to the party

Dancing can be such a great stress buster and lately there has been a trend of including dance styles such as belly dancing or jazz in cardio workouts. Joining the bandwagon is Zumba - which combines slow and fast steps from Salsa, Samba, Meringue, Cumbia, Calypso, Belly dancing, Flamenco, Reggaeton etc. in an interval training format. Most of the steps and moves can actually be used when you go dancing and there is a lot of variety of dance styles so the workout doesn’t seem tedious. End result: you burn weight while having fun!

The Zumba story
Zumba was started in the late nineties by Colombian Alberto Perez (a.k.a. Beto), a fitness trainer and choreographer, who was forced to use Latin American music for a session, when he had forgotten his original aerobics music. The rest, as they say, is history! The pulsating rhythms and groovy steps made this his most popular class and the demand for Zumba kept increasing.

Customised to your need and liking
Relatively new to India, Zumba is catching on fast due to its unrestrictive style. Once you know the moves, you are free to add your own flavour. Vimoha Bagla, who has just started taking Zumba lessons, is a convert. She says, “Zumba is so much fun that I eagerly wait for my next class. I love the music and the moves!” Sisters Dimple and Pooja Laungani, who are both Reebok certified trainers and run a fitness studio in Mumbai, include Zumba as part of a comprehensive one hour cardio workout and combine it with kick boxing, aerobics etc. Dimple says “Zumba is particularly great for toning the abs.”

New York born Dianne Cobb-Pennisi is the first Zumba certified trainer in India, offering classes in Bangalore. She says, “Zumba can burn up to 1000 calories in a one hour class. But people tend to have so much fun working out that the sessions don’t seem stressful. Also, anyone - male or female, young or old, can try Zumba. We have various programs including Zumba Aqua for people with joint problems or for those who are obese. Then there is Zumba Gold for out of shape or elderly people. We are also starting Zumba Kids. Other than cardio, we also have a Zumba sculpting and toning program where you use weights.”

Go for the ‘real’ thing!
Dianne recently held the first Zumba instructor training in Bangalore and the session was sold out! Zumba DVDs are also available for sale in India. But as Dianne says, “A session with a Zumba instructor can be even more fun than doing the videos at home. Combined with the right diet, Zumba is a complete body workout which will lead to weight loss.”

A special word of advice: Drag your partner along and make your Zumba sessions spicier and livelier!

Get the disco diva look

Go disco glam and glossy with your hair and makeup this season. Sheetal Anand gets step"by"step cues from experts on how to get this hot, refined and chic look right along with the best disco beauty buys

Glistening skin is in
To begin with, the skin needs to look glowing without looking caked-up. For the glossy less-is-more look, use a light makeup base, something like the Revlon skinlights illuminating lotion with micro shimmer. Use a concealer prior to this if you have blemishes or marks to cover. Next, dust a translucent powder to give an even finish and then get on to the next step.

Get blushing
Next is the blush. Disco blush is meant to exude a rosy innocence yet stand out. Choose bright tones and apply in circles to the apples of your cheeks. Temper your look with a blusher that has a generous dose of shimmer. -Try the Chambor powder blusher, particularly the ‘Star candy’ shade which blends easily leaving the skin bright and radiant and lasts for long hours,- suggests Nishigandha.

Make it eye-catching
Funky, smokey eyes are the highpoint of any disco look. Just three simple rules and you’re ready to create a furore.

Rule No. 1: Don’t be stingy on the eyeshadow. Blue, pink or light green, get one with iridescent qualities. Remember, a liquid eyeshadow lasts longer than its powdery counterpart. The Oriflame Beauty Mousse Delight is an ideal selection. For more drama, choose vibrant MAC shades.

Rule No. 2: Use shimmer only on the centre of the eyelid. Spice it up with shimmers from Colourbar, Revlon and Lakme.

Rule No. 3: While applying eye liner, extend the outer ends slightly to create the dreamy ‘doe-eyed effect’. If using kohl, merge it with eyeliner at the outer corner. Finally, finish with loads of mascara.

Lip gloss rules
Lip balm, lip colour and lip gloss, strictly follow that order. Whether you wear a pale lip colour or go for a bright shade like tangerine or red, a heavy dose of lip gloss makes sure your lips are noticed. -To give the illusion of full lips, apply gloss only to centre of lips and not all over. Best buy would be L’Oreal glamshine lipgloss,- recommends Nishigandha.

The reign of disco hair continues
A hot and funky fresh disco hairstyle will add pizzazz to your style. Classic disco hairstyles like the ponytailed look, the Afro or frizzy look or the feathers or layered look are now revamped with interesting and elegant twists.

Instead, less frizz, minimal puffing up, interesting side parting and gentle wavy styles with headbands and clip-on hair extensions are hip this season.

Hairstylist Shradha Vankudre, from Pune, gives us practical do-it-yourself tips for a nightclub look. She says, -If you have short hair, streak the fringe with temporary hair colours. Choose funky blue, purple, pink or subtler blonde, ash and red. The rest of your hair can be puffed up at the back. Those with curly hair can use wet look styling products to distribute the curls evenly or take small vertical sections from forehead to crown while twisting them in strands and then pinning them with bob-pins. Classic, long hair can be ironed straight or can be curled at the middle and the ends, to attain a fusion of straight as well as sexy curls.-

These looks are perfect for igniting the disco drama smartly, without going OTT.

And before you step out, dust some glitter on your neck, chest and arms. Feel like a disco diva and rule the night away!

Does your partner hate your best friend?

After a satisfying day out with your favourite girlfriend, do you come home to find your partner sulking? Do you often wish that your partner would just learn to like your BFF? Ekta Hattangady speaks to experts on how to handle your partner's dislike for that 'other' important person in your life

Sonia’s best friend, Mamta, is her lifeline. They have been best friends since they met at college almost twelve years ago. They speak four to five times a day even now. But Sonia’s husband of seven years just cannot bear to hear even a titbit of information related to Mamta! “There are some times when Mamta comes to our house and Sameer will not even leave the bedroom to say hello,” laments a distressed Sonia.

Are you discussing him?
“Sonia’s situation is not unique, a lot of men feel threatened by strong female bonding,” says Dr. Jahanara of the Institute of Human Behaviour and Applied Sciences, Delhi. “There are several reasons men may dislike their partner’s girlfriends. But mostly it is owing to a man’s own insecurities and the aura of mystery around what women talk about,” she explains. If you are constantly taking the phone into the other room while talking to your friend, it is likely to make your partner feel that you’re discussing him or something that you don’t want him to know. This is likely to agitate him.

Unlike men, women are known to share even minute details of their lives with each other. “A man would definitely feel threatened if he thinks his partner is sharing intimate details about their life with her friend. They may fear being judged by the friend or feel vulnerable and exposed to a person not in their inner circle,” says Dr. Jahanara.

My friend says so…
If a woman often uses her friend’s name to strengthen her point during an argument, it may give the impression that she is easily influenced by external viewpoints. Sonia admits that sometimes she does make remarks like, ‘Mamta and I both think we should do this…’ or, ‘not only me, but Mamta also said…’ “There is a good chance that Sonia’s husband feels that her friend seems to have a say in every little matter that concerns their life,” analyses Dr. Jahanara, “This will not only make her husband dislike her friend more, but will also affect their communication patterns in general.”

“More conventional men tend to feel intimidated by independent and confident women. It makes them feel that their partners will get carried away by the ideas of their radical friends. They may feel threatened when their partners grow and challenge status quo,” says Samata Vasisht, a life coach who runs Synergy Holistic, Mumbai.

Is your friend eating into your ‘couple’ time?
Sonia speaks to her best friend quite often during the evenings. Vashish explains, “Men would not take it well if they feel they have to compete with their partner’s friend to be the No. 1 in their lives. Every marriage has a space. The day is usually meant for work and routine chores, and the evenings to spend time with each other or the family. This space, if often occupied by other things can be very harmful to a relationship.”

Talk it out but don’t confront!
Dr. Jahanara and Ms. Vasisht both agree that open communication about the problem is the key to resolving this deadlock. “Don’t settle for I-just-don’t-like-her,” says Dr. Jahanara, “Ask him to specify what exactly his problem is. Do this gently; else it may sound like a confrontation.”

According to Vasisht, “Men don’t understand that women discuss their problems not in the hope that all their issues will get resolved, but more to feel better after a good rant. When they hear others having similar problems, it makes them feel less isolated. Women need to explain to their partners that they need to have healthy friendships outside.”

Go beyond love!
Make your partner feel wanted as a friend in your life too. Ask for advice from him as you do from your friends. When he knows that he has a secure place in your life, he is unlikely to worry about being displaced.

Encourage ‘bro time’
Both, Jahanara and Vasisht agree that respecting “bro time” - time that partners spend with the boys also helps the situation. A couple where both have stable friendships outside of their relationship is likely to be happier.

So the next time your partner makes a snide remark about your best friend, you know what to do, right?

Top 5 New Year party destinations

It's time to usher in 2011 with style. Instead of partying at your regular stops, take the New Year experience to a different height altogether with our sizzling list. Make your bookings now! By Aanchal Sethi

Czech out Prague
Make sure to prep your ears for some loudness. Because, knowing the Czechs and their capacity to throw a good party, the sky is sure to explode with almost all shapes and sizes of fireworks on New Year’s night in Prague.
Enjoy scenic, fairy-tale architecture and explore the beauty of cobbled streets and romantic candle light dinners. There are plenty of groovy pubs and bars for night outs and many relaxed cafes for lazy lunches through the day to make New Year’s a truly memorable affair.

Sin in Vegas
The city that parties all year round doesn’t disappoint on New Year’s Eve. Las Vegas, known for its clubs, bars, hotels and casinos goes all out to bring in the New Year every year. Grand fireworks, neon lights, street parties, you name it and its right there. Make sure to attend the famous massive wine toast complete with confetti and state of the art light shows. Party like never before and remember, what happens in Vegas, always stays in Vegas!

Live high in Scotland
Start the celebrations early in Edinburgh with the famous ‘Hogmanay’ festival that starts five days before New Year’s Eve. The five day party is an amalgamation of parades, concerts, parties and even dog races. The party ends with massive fireworks as you set foot into the New Year. An interesting Scottish tradition called ‘first-footing’ is to give coal or shortbread to friends and family who set foot in your house in the New Year. Make sure you participate in the tradition and don’t forget to sip some of the world’s finest whiskey.

Drink up in Berlin
Join over a million people that gather every year to attend the massive, overwhelming, drunken celebrations that make New Year’s Eve in Berlin an unforgettable experience. Beautiful fireworks displays, dancing, light shows, international cuisines and hundreds of beer tents make it a night to remember. The 1.2 mile long, ‘Party Mile’ is a street that turns into one huge open - air disco with international DJs, light shows and performing artists. Bring out the party animal in you and live it up like the Germans do!

The ultimate carnival in Rio de Janeiro
They say you haven’t partied well if you haven’t partied in Brazil. On New Year’s, the Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro truly lives up to its reputation of being the most famous beach in the world. Known as ‘Reveillon’ the entire beach turns into an all-day party with a perfect carnival atmosphere, musical stages, dancing and fireworks. Make sure to be dressed in white (it’s a tradition) and join over two million people from all over the world who turn up to make it the ultimate New Year party you mustn’t miss.

Foodbytes: And it’s a Wrap

A filmmaker, fabulous cook, and blogger from the city known as the Oxford of the East - Pune, we meet Jyotsna Shahane. Jyotsna's blog The Cook's Cottage is the space for her eclectic thoughts on food, recipes, opinions, and all things culinary.

An FTII (Film and Television Institute of India) alumni Jyotsna believes that ” life is meant to try one’s hand at creating whatever one can” and for now that means revising and republishing a cookbook written by Narayani Nayak and writing a cookbook for children. Here’s Jyotsna Shahane in conversation with Rajani Mani

What’s the story behind The Cook’s Cottage?
“While they say ‘cooking isn’t rocket science’, it took me awhile to learn how to cook well. I found most recipe books lacked information regarding each stage of the cooking process. Cooking is something that you learn through experience, and without someone experienced to point things out, it is a question of trial and error. I wanted to shorten this process for the beginner cook, without access to a mother or family to guide them.”

Your blog never fails to remind its readers the importance of eating locally and sustainably, tell us about that.
“I cannot over-emphasize how important sustainability is to the everyday table. In a country like India, where much of our population is below the poverty line, farmers have small land holdings, and fertilizers and pesticides are causing much debt in our agricultural sector. With the right policies and incentives, their tables and ours could be filled without having to resort to GM foods or imports.”

What would you advice on how we should choose the food we eat?
“I have the same mantra as most slow food followers around the world. Eat local. Buy what is in season and what is harvested close to home. This will subvert those people who profit by artificially prolonging the shelf life of fresh foods, and those who stand to gain by trucking foods across the country and continents at great detriment to the environment.”

In Pune where do you shop for organically grown local produce?
“Organic food is really not available in larger quantities in Pune. There are some small organisations who stock a few types of organic grains and spices but fresh organic produce is almost impossible to get. There have been initiatives to bring local farm produce to the consumer, but these have been scuttled by vested interests.”

Where do you source your recipe from?
“Friends, my mother’s cook book, Madhur Jaffrey, and Narayani Nayak”

5 ingredients you just can’t do without?
“Green coriander, lemons, spinach, peanuts, and black pepper.”

Other than the knife, name one kitchen tool you can’t do without?
“Mortar and Pestle”

What would you like your last meal to be?
“A pan-Indian Thali with all my favourite preparations, from Koshimbir to Pitle to Prawn Curry and Rice. Here’s the recipe for a delicious prawn curry…”

PRAWN CURRY

Ingredients
250 grams large prawns, cleaned and deveined
1 bulb lemon grass, not the fibrous root, crushed
5-6 lemon leaves, crushed
2 medium sized onions, chopped finely
1 sprig curry leaves
1 slit green chilly, with seeds removed
2 peeled tomatoes, finely chopped
2 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon chilly powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh coriander

Method
1. Fry the onions, garlic, lemon grass bulb, lime leaves, curry leaves, green chilly and ginger paste till soft and pulpy.
2. Add the tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Now add the turmeric, chilly powder, salt and sugar. Add 2 tablespoons of water and cook covered for 8 minutes till all the ingredients have combined.
4. Next add the prawns and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add three tablespoons of prepared coconut milk and fresh coriander leaves. Mix well and serve hot with rice.

For more masala magic, visit Jyotsna’s blog The Cook’s Cottage.

Top 10 fragrances for winter

Right from scarves and coats to jumpers and jackets, there's a whole new wardrobe for the cold months. When we invest so much time and moolah on getting ourselves a cosy look for the season, why not get fragrances apt for the cold too? Chandana Banerjee helps you find perfect warming scents for those cold days and nights

1. Gucci’s latest offering, Gucci Guilty has a strong, woody fragrance. More aromatic, with a hint of romance, this Eau de Toilette comes in a squat gold bottle for Rs 4,100 for 50 ml and Rs 5,300 for 100 ml. If you fancy a matching deodorant, get one for Rs 2,100.

2. Another fragrance you’ll find difficult to resist is Givenchy’s Absolutely Irresistible. Available in 75 ml and 50 ml packs, and packaged in ruby-red, this perfume has Party Wear written all over it. Floral, addictive and strong, the fragrance is great for the intense winter months. This can be yours for Rs 5,150 or Rs 4,130, depending upon the size you choose.

3. Celebration of Happiness from Boss brings back the memories of sunny days and summer fun. Fresh and light, this pretty bottle of perfume is great for day wear. Dab some on when you step out to work or for a day of movies and popcorn. 50 ml of perfume can be yours for Rs 2,950, while the 75 ml bottle is for Rs 3,875.

4. Dior presents Hypnotic Poison, a sensual fragrance with Ylang Ylang essence and hints of orange blossom and vanilla. Packaged in a round, apple-like bottle, in deep burgundy, the fragrance is warm and strong. A timeless perfume, Hypnotic Poison captures the essence of warm festivity. Price points: 100 ml for Rs 6,300 and 50 ml for Rs 4,400.

5. A bottle of Calvin Klein Beauty complements the inner beauty of a woman. Inspired by the Calla Lilly, this perfume has Ambrette seeds as the top note, Jasmine as the heart with Cedar wood forming the base note. Modern, woody and floral, this luminous perfume is truly exclusive.

6. Lanvin - Marry Me! is a floral fragrance for celebratory moments that comes in a bottle that looks like a gift-wrapped package. Guys - if you’re reading this, Marry Me! can be a great gift for your partner- 100 ml for Rs 4,300, 50 ml for Rs 3,300 and 30 ml for Rs 2,300.

7. Carolina Herrera presents 212 VIP is a fruity fragrance with hints of vanilla, and will remind you of Christmas. The perfume is priced between Rs 2,550 to Rs 4,250, depending upon the size of the bottle.

8. Another fruity fragrance with top notes of sweet orange, fresh raspberry, crystal mint, orange flower, peony sorbet and jasmine forming the heart and vanilla, patchouli and cashmere at the base, Lady Million is a feast of fragrances and textures.

9. Dior’s Escale aux Marquises takes the wearer on a faraway journey. Travel to the Indian Ocean Islands and savour the freshness of fragrant spices with a whiff of this exotic perfume that is packed with interesting fragrances - orange essence, pink peppercorns and Tahitian Tiare flowers. Citrus and very fresh, this perfume promises to tease your senses on a cold, dull day. Pick one up for Rs 5,975 or Rs 4,190 for 125 ml or 75 ml, respectively.

10. J’adore, another fragrant offering from Dior, this floral perfume with potpourri of essences - Neroli, Magnolia and Bergamot, come in a sleek and slender bottle, with perfume the colour of honey. Pick one up - 125 ml for Rs 6,400 and 75 ml for Rs 4,570