Super foods for a super you

Multitasking is an art which most women have mastered, but are you compromising your health in the process? Consultant Registered Dietician Preethi Rahul tells you how to get a boost from super foods to keep you going all day

Super foods are a special category of foods found in nature. By definition they are calorie sparse and nutrient dense. They are excellent sources of antioxidants and essential nutrients, nutrients which we need but our body cannot synthesise. Every super food is a real, unprocessed food. The following is a list of some of these super foods and ways to include them in your diet.

Apple
An apple contains a strong phytonutrient known as quercetin, which prevents oxidative damage caused by scavenging free radicals and prevents cardiovascular diseases, strokes, Alzheimer’s etc. The vitamin C content in an apple helps improve immunity. It also contains pectin, a soluble fibre which effectively lowers blood cholesterol.
Including in your diet: You can make apple sauce, apple and oatmeal pie or make a fruit salad with apple.

Beetroot
The dark pink colour of the beetroot is because of betacarotene and betacyanin, powerful antioxidants present in it. These antioxidants help in liver detoxification. It is also high in folic acid, a key micronutrient during pregnancy. Beetroot also helps the body to utilise calcium. It is therefore important for musculo-skeletal health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Beetroot is a great cleanser.
Including in your diet: You can make beetroot parathas, beetroot halwa, eat it raw or drink beetroot juice.

Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants flavonoids and can lower blood pressure. Its use in cancer is still under research. Remember one thing before getting too excited about chocolate. Always choose a chocolate that has 60% or higher cocoa content; the darker the chocolate, lesser the fat and sugar.
Including in your diet: Gobble it as such or add it to pies, brownies or cookies.

Egg
It is amazing to see something so small cramming in so many nutrients within its shell. An egg is an excellent source of protein. It provides good levels of iron, zinc, B vitamins and selenium. It also contains choline, cited as vital for brain function and memory.
Including in your diet: Hard boil it, make an omelette or whip it into your dressings.

Green tea
Green or black tea, the overall antioxidant power remains the same. However, green teas contain a powerful antioxidant known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (ECGC). Research shows that ECGC has the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The polyphenols in green tea are 100 times more effective than vitamin C as far as antioxidant power is concerned. Green tea also helps lower cholesterol.
Including in your diet: Have it chilled or make green tea ice cream!

Oats
Oats are high in soluble fibre. They help in weight loss and also reduce cholesterol.
Including in your diet: Eat them in the form of cookies, pancakes or bars.

Omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are one type of fatty acids which our body cannot synthesise but they have to be included in your diet. They reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, obesity, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, cancer etc. Omegas 3s prevent blood from excessive clotting. They are well known for their anti ageing properties as well. Rich sources include: cold water fatty fish like tuna, mackerel, sardines, walnuts, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, soy etc.
Including in your diet: Add one or two teaspoons of flax seeds to your everyday cooking, try popping in 3-4 walnuts, have a tuna salad, try making walnut flax seed cookies.

Soy
The nutrient profile of soy speaks for itself. It is high in fibre and protein, cholesterol free, and an excellent source of phytochemicals and minerals like phosphorus, potassium, calcium and iron. Soy is a heart friendly food, reduces the risk of colon cancer and strokes, helps in weight loss, prevents osteoporosis, and reduces menstrual pain.
Including in your diet: Add soya chunks to your pulao or biryani, have tofu instead of paneer or try flavoured soy milk as a snack alternative!

5 steps to a ruined career

Often, it's that one small mistake that ruins a perfectly good situation. And your actions go on and make it worse. Smita Singh lists out 5 professional mistakes that are sure to lead to a ruined career and are best not committed

1. Compromising integrity
From planting fake stories as a journalist to leaking details of your clients and company data, losing integrity is professional suicide. Even if you feel pressure from the top or from within to compromise in order to rise faster, throwing your code of honour to the winds will only speed you out of your current job with zero references and a lot of muck on your resume. You may never recover since news spreads fast and bad news faster. Go slow, steady, and strong on principles and you’ll have a long, fruitful career ahead of you. Keep it clean and ensure you have a great reputation built before that bank balance!

2. Being miss goody two shoes
Remember, the not-so-meek will get promoted. If you don’t rise to the occasion, take the credit, show your efforts, and celebrate your achievements, people will think you suffer from low self-esteem. And no one is going to promote someone with low self esteem, how will she lead a team? Humility is great, but you needn’t overkill it. In today’s competitive world, you need to work hard and make sure that those who matter know that you do. So don’t let that pushy colleague or that selfish boss hog the limelight. Step up and acknowledge your contribution and don’t be afraid to demand what is justly yours.

3. It’s office, not home
Surely you would like to carry a little bit of yourself to your work place, but if you move bag and loads of baggage to the office, it will reduce your concentration and hamper your productivity. Also, shrieking and screaming at people like you did at home when your kids overturned that table is a sure shot way of losing respect. Your boss will doubt your confidence if you well up with emotion every time she points out mistakes.

So keep your Kleenex handy, go to the washroom or hammer the wall, but come out composed and try to keep the lid on, most times. Furious, jumpy, miserable, and hypersensitive are definitely not the kind of people one wants to work with. There is a code of conduct at the work place that you are expected to follow and no matter who you are and where you are coming from, don’t carry your emotional baggage around - its heavy and you’ll be the only one holding it.

4. Taking on more than you can chew
Unintentional blunders can be forgiven but a reputation of being someone who bites off more than she can chew without delivering can quickly send you packing. Believing in your ability to achieve the impossible is great, especially when you are pushed to the wall, but risking your employer’s reputation, your company’s resources, and your own career to get that high is not worth it. More CEOs are fired for doing more than expected than doing less. So take that initiative, tackle that challenge, but don’t forget you are paid to do a job, not exercise your dare devilry at the cost of others.

5. Staying put
Yup! They can build a monument where you sat and sloughed for ages before they had to carry you out, but you won’t be seeing it in your professional life since it’ll be over before they build it! It’s one thing to be loyal to your company and sticking it out, but being afraid to venture out and try your fortune and skills in a more challenging and rewarding environment will not keep you stable, it will make you stale. So get up before you get fossilised and look for more challenging opportunities! Go on, live your best life!

Must-visit party places before 30

Chhavi Moodgal suggests some exotic party destinations you and your BFFs simply have to hit before you turn 30...Pack your bags and get partying!

Full moon party at Haad Rin Nok

This beach, located in Koh Pha Ngan region in Thailand, has been immortalised with its mention in Alex Garland’s 1997 novel “The Beach”. The story goes that in the 1980s a group of backpackers were amazed with the extraordinary beauty of the Haad Rin beach during the full moon and decided to throw a huge party to celebrate this celestial phenomenon. Every full moon of the month, more than 30,000 people celebrate all through the night with multiple stages offering the best of house, R&B, hip hop and trance.

Try the Floating Bar (quite literally on a Thai long tail boat!) for its exotic cocktails and freshly caught seafood produce. Make sure you also catch the spectacular fire show organized at the Cactus and Drop-In bars and party the night away with gallons of rum or Thai buckets! Don’t forget to get a Thai massage the next morning - after all that revelry, your body is going to need it!

Foam party in Ibiza

Renowned for its nightlife, the party island of Ibiza is also a terrific holiday destination for its gorgeous beaches, UNESCO heritage sites at the Ibiza port, delectable Mediterranean cuisine and myriad dance forms such as flamenco and tango. The party season in Ibiza typically begins in June with opening parties in the famous nightclubs Space and DC10. The closing parties typically end the season in October.

A visit to view the sunset at Café del Mar, one of the most famous night clubs in the world, is an absolute must. If you are lucky, you will get to attend a foam party at one of the swanky Ibiza nightclubs, so make sure you and your BFFs pack that bikini! A typical day for you in Ibiza would mean waking at noon, early evening massages, late night clubbing, and “disco sunrises” while enjoying the yummy sangria and the flaon!

Girlfriend cruise in the Caribbean

Looking for the ultimate gal pal vacation nirvana? Take a cruise with your girlfriends in the Caribbean. There is no denying that a cruise brings an unmatched sense of festivity and entertainment, and that too in the convenience of one large ship! You can customize the cruise to include as many locations and activities as you and your BFFs want. For those who just want to chill out, Jamaica with its laid back and relaxed culture is a fabulous place to enjoy the reggae, jazz, and blues festivals. If you are looking for more sophisticated celebrations, the carnivals and rum fiestas in St Lucia are an unforgettable experience!

Try the Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, and Haiti circuit for something a little different. In Puerto Rico, you can shop till you drop and enjoy the stunning beaches and nightlife. If you are feeling adventurous, take a mountain biking tour in St Maarten and in Haiti, try the longest zip line over water!

Action weekend in Reykjavik

Who could’ve thought that nightlife in a city could be sizzling hot in spite of the outside temperature being 5 °C? With a history of producing experimental musicians like Icelandic rockers SigurRó s and Bjö rk, it’s no wonder Reykjavik pays homage to the auditory-inclined. Teeming with bars, pubs and prized nightclubs like NASA (an auditorium-like space with live music all through the night), Iceland’s capital is a great place to party and enjoy various kinds of live music such as hardcore punk rock, indie, classical chamber music, and hip-hop.

Think you and your friends have stamina? Prove it by participating in Icelandic rüntur, a night-long, marathon-style pub crawl. Make sure you taste the beer - it supposedly tastes phenomenal in Iceland because the water is so clean! If the girls are in a mood for some adventure, try white water rafting or quad biking. For that extra adrenaline, get a ride on the X4 Super Truck, which will take you over mountain roads to Myrdalsjokull glacier. You could also try the snow scooter. End your action packed weekend with a splash in the hot tub, a barbeque meal of Iceland’s fresh produce, and a visit to the Blue Lagoon spa, famous for its in-water massages!

Femina makes the big 30 more exciting by associating with the film “Turning 30”. For more dope on turning 30, visit our facebook and twitter pages.

Rocking at 30

Is thirty that magical age when you're most comfortable with yourself and are raring to go? Sheetal Anand chats with 3 women achievers who've embraced the thirties with panache. Read on to find out how rocking their thirties are

‘Just as I turned thirty, I bagged the Commonwealth Games 2010!’
Meet Nivedita Saboo, gold medalist from NIFT, New Delhi, whose designs have been showcased at the Hong Kong and Pune Fashion Week. She designs for the likes of Kareena Kapoor, Neha Dhupia, Diana Hayden and for Femina Miss India and Grasim Mr India contestants. Nivedita was recently awarded the prestigious assignment of designing the entire apparel for the CWG Delhi 2010.

Her motto in life is simple. She says, “Believe in yourself. And success will follow! That’s the mantra I’ve been following ever since I began with a single machine 8 years ago. My design unit today employs over 90 skilled craftsmen. “

“But success does not come easy. The initial struggle was overcome with determination and thorough understanding of the trade. Today, as I have turned thirty, I feel very self-assured and confident to face challenges in the future.”

“I’m definitely not slowing down with age. Just recently, I finished shooting for an Amol Palekar film in Sikkim and am truly overwhelmed by the experience. Doing something different, even if not related to my profession, is what I think enhances the richness of life. What’s age got to do with it?”

‘At thirty, I found my purpose on earth’

Khushmita Sanghvi quit her corporate career last year to become a full time yoga instructor. This year, she turned thirty. That’s when she also completed a course in Laughter Yoga. She is living up to her name in doing her generous bit of spreading joy and happiness!

Khushmita says, “Suddenly, at thirty, everything fell in place. I knew I had to make that paradigm shift in my career. I knew I had to spread laughter and joy.”

“I started my own Laughter Club which was initially ridiculed and is now attracting larger participation with every passing week. I feel so blessed when people from all walks of life, executives, students, patients, the elderly, and the disabled tell me how their lives have been transformed. All I want to do now is infuse lives with positivity, energy and health.”

Looking forward to all these endeavours, she is confident of success. And what’s the secret? She says, “It is happiness at thirty where I found my true purpose of life. I am completely in tune with my inner self. I believe what’s inside reflects on the outside.”

‘At thirty, I feel like a bird out of a cage’

Meet Avanthi Hiremath, founder of www.ajency.in, a digital agency offering online solutions. Says Avanthi, “I experienced an early mid-life crisis in my twenties. A degree in microbiology, an MBA, and job stints at various organisations did not inspire me. I had to deal with disillusionment and disgust. I couldn’t see myself doing something that did not give me contentment or peace of mind.”

“Now that I have touched thirty, I am really happy about the way life is shaping up for me. On the personal front, I have found the best husband ever. And together, we are helping people with their digital needs. So, whether it’s an orthopaedic surgeon in Mumbai, an avid traveller in Florida, a consultant in Dublin or a financial group in Canberra, we have solutions for all.”

“I am enjoying every moment of being thirty. It is that age when you can listen to your inner voice even if it means having to defy conventional wisdom…and I just love it!”

Femina makes the big 30 more exciting by associating with the film “Turning 30”. For more dope on turning 30, visit our facebook and twitter pages.

Get dirty before 30

Nervous about hitting your thirties soon? Why not make a bucket list instead, of living life to the tee while you are still in your Tweeny Twenties? Here are 10 things we urge you to tick off before you turn 3 decades old.

1) Travel on two wheels: Travel, for one, is on top of the list, but taking a mundane package tour is so not on. Instead, we urge you to learn how to ride a bike, or better still, tame a Harley Davidson and take a trip up North. Plan it out with your girl pals and traverse the serene peaks of the Himalayas or soak in the sun as you ride along in the Swiss gullies.

2) Get art smart: Owning a genuine masterpiece and flaunting it on the hall wall is quite a thing to do. Moreover, it’s the most beautiful investment there is and if you manage to pull it off before you are 30, you deserve to feel proud of yourself. If you can’t afford a top artist, go for a not-so-expensive but a promising one and you will not be disappointed. Talk to art dealers to get started.

3) Doll-phins: Dolls like to swim with the dolphins. They probably are the only guys who are known to be the most obedient and friendly, so a trip to the Bahamas, Hawaii, Orlando or Western Australia to swim with the dolphins is something you really must make.

4) Do the Coyote Ugly: The women-run NYC saloon wants some crazy cats for comic yelling, bartending, playing the bouncer at the entry and cocktail waitressing. If you think you fit the bill for any, apply right away at http://www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/jobs.html or just book yourself there for enjoying the experience this hugely popular saloon extends.

5) Strip tease: Visiting a male strip tease bar and whistling away at the muscle display might not be a bad thing to do after all. And if it is, at least you will know how bad it is. Bangkok has some nice joints including the Gogo Bar. Las Vegas, Budapest, Paris have these too. Alternatively, you could hire a male stripper for your friend’s hen party and go full Monty right here in your own city!

6) Sail in the skies: A maiden hot air balloon ride in the pristine blue skies would be just the thing to do while your spirit of adventure and romance is soaring. Though it might cost a third of your pay, it will be a memory you will hold on to forever. Take the ride from Skywaltz Balloon Safaris in Rajasthan and choose your dream sky safari.

7) Challenge gravity: Want to fall like Newton’s Apple from the highest bungee site in the world? The Macau Tower in Hong Kong will get your screaming your lungs out. If not Hong Kong, find the next best bungee around town and take the plunge. Literally. But remember, this isn’t for the faint-hearted.

8) De-tox: After all that sinful stuff, you might want to take a breather and detox yourself mentally and spiritually. Take a ten-day Vipassana meditation course, one of the most ancient meditation techniques of India. Rediscover and concentrate on your inner-self. Set aside this time to focus, think and plan your life ahead. Visit http://www.dhamma.org/ for more details.

9) Rock it till you die: At least once in a lifetime, you must splurge on getting good tickets for attending your favourite rock band’s performance. Travel across seven seas for it if you have to, groove, go wild in the mosh pit and scream along as much as you like while your ear drums can still take it.

10) Ride a ship or pilot a plane: Speaking of woman power, how about taking a flying course at the Indian Aviation Institute, or learning to ride a cruise ship? Maybe you could qualify to ride the Gondola as well and sail the quiet waters of Venice by yourself.

30 tips for a healthy you at 30

Fitness expert Tushar Ramanan prepares you to face your thirties with 30 essential health and wellness tips to help you balance your mind, body and soul. By Trupti

1. Interval training is ideal to kick start your 30’s fitness routine. A non-stop mix of running, sprinting, jogging and brisk walking, it promises maximum results.

2. In your 30’s, muscles can begin to atrophy but this process can be reversed with a smart weight training routine like circuit training to improve your strength.

3. Join a weight management or support group in networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. You can make likeminded friends and achieve your goals sooner than expected.

4. Mental agility is just as important as your physical strength. Indulge in games like Sudoku or crossword puzzles to keep your grey cells working.

5. It can’t get hotter than this! Yes, we are talking about hot yoga, an effective way to detox and lose those piling calories. A must try!

6. Dancing is a great stress-buster and with all those different styles out there, all you have to do is choose. Our current favourite is Zumba and contemporary dancing.

7. Every week get your share of laughs with laughter yoga. It will tickle your brain cells and create an atmosphere which is full of endorphins and loads of fun.

8. It is never too late to learn to self-defence. Join a martial training class; taekwondo or kick boxing are excellent options to stay fit and protect yourself.

9. Eating a balanced diet with vitamins and minerals should be the most important mantra in your lifestyle once you hit the 30’s, which means 5-6 smaller meals.

10. Every woman in her 30’s should drink adequate amounts of water. It effectively eliminates all the toxic substances from the body, improving organ functioning.

11. Power yoga is a very good form to practice in the 30s as it helps to maintain postures, improves flexibility, and increases stamina and strength.

12. Look forward to sattvic weekend retreats. Good food, good exercise, and the company of good people, it can’t get better than this!

13. Maintain a food diary and make it your BFF. It will help you identify your food patterns and help you make healthy choices.

14. Exercising can take a backseat while travelling but a resistance band or a travel ball proves to be really helpful when you are on the move.

15. Opt for outdoor exercises like swimming, badminton, tennis at least twice a week. It can do wonders for your metabolism.

16. Don’t compare yourself to a zero-size twenty year old and opt for crash dieting. Accept your shape and size gracefully and aim for fitness rather than thinness.

17. Join a hobby class like painting, sculpting, gardening, singing, and horse riding. It can be a great mood enhancer and add a creative dimension to your work and personal life too.

18. Your 30’s is the perfect time to explore your sensuous side. Learn pole dancing or belly dancing, it works wonders on your body and your sex life, so says Oprah!

19. Just before you’re turning thirty, run a marathon for a good cause. It brings about a great sense of achievement to your life.

20. Heard of adventure therapy? Activities like river rafting, rappelling, and bungee jumping are exhilarating ways to sit back and analyse your life in a different perspective.

21. Pamper your senses with an oil massage under a trained masseur once in a while. It’s great for your metabolism and also helps to revitalise your mind, body, and soul.

22. Once a while, head outdoors for isometric exercises or super exciting cardio like hopscotch, skipping, and hurdles with friends. It’s amazing fun.

23. Alternate your lifestyle with small changes. Take the stairs instead of the escalator and walk for shorter distances. In the long run, they’re very effective.

24. Strength training or gym workouts are integral but tend to get boring. Tag along a friend or opt for a personal trainer to motivate you towards maximum results.

25. Be as close to nature as possible by going for nature trails. It will not only help your fitness levels but the fresh air will also clear your mind.

26. Looking to lose weight, gain strength, and achieve Zen, try out the best boot camps and detox spas in the world. Portugal, Germany, and UK have some great ones.

27. Opt for alternative therapies like bibliotherapy, drama, music, and cinema therapy for mood upliftment and overall wellness.

28. Meditation that can be done in various forms plays a major role in reducing stress and creates a clear vision towards achieving your goals.

29. A woman in her 30s should have regular medical check-ups, including gynaecological examinations.

30. It is essential to relax completely as much as it is to exercise so that you can rejuvenate your tired and worn out muscles. So, sleep well and rest your body for a day at least.

30 hotties we wish were single

These gorgeous men are hitched and hooked but that has never stopped us from wishing they were single... Sigh! By Shruti Kothari

1. Arjun Rampal - Mehr Jesia is one lucky babe! When a man looks as delicious and Mills & Boons-y as Rampal does, we want him! Are you listening, oh unfair-Gods-in-heaven?

2. Shahrukh Khan - Faithful King Khan has the entire planet swooning over him but it’s only Gauri Khan who gets the best of him! If only wishes were horses…

3. Hrithik Roshan - The dreamy Duggu strumming the guitar by the seaside, a la Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, singing - Susanna, Susanna, I’m crazy loving you…while we get crazy jealous!

4. Farhan Akhtar - With three women (read wifey Adhuna and daughters Shakya and Akira) in the house, how is this sizzler expected to have time to mend our broken hearts…?

5. Mahendra Singh Dhoni - This sexy cricket captain left us stumped with his hurricane wedding but our tears have not dried up yet. MSD - you owe us one!

6. Abhishek Bachchan - When you are married to Aishwarya Rai, there is little else to say. But would it be wishful thinking if we too could have a piece of his royal hotness? Get the idea, Sirji!

7. Aamir Khan - We heart you, Aamir. Qayamat se Qayamat tak… Seriously! Because yeh Dil Chahta Hai only you…

8. Imraan Khan - If only we could Kidnap this Khan and whisk him away to an Avantika-less, strawberries and cream heaven!

9. Sachin Pilot - Had someone warned us that the babalog of this country could look this good, we would have been prepared! But alas, Sarah got the better of us!

10. Sachin Tendulkar - While he made cricket history, Anita Mehta made personal history with him, leaving us with no story whatsoever!

11. Sabeer Bhatia - How can we not be interested in this USD 200 million portion of hotness! If this Hot Male wasn’t already Tania’s, we would come knockin’!

12. Ajay Devgn - With an aircraft at his disposal and Kajol on his arms, this shotgun leaves us with no option but to drool!

13. Akshay Kumar - The khiladi of khiladis, Akshay Kumar seems to become more and more handsome each day. Please tell us how you do it, Akki. We will gladly lend an ear (and anything else too)!

14. Omar Abdullah - Perhaps we should officially not take a panga with this General saab’s son-in-law. But since when is salivating a crime?!

15. Leander Paes - This Kolkata knight got cosy with Rhea Pillai in the blink of an eye! Who is paying for this blunder!?

16. Jyotiraditya Madhavrao Scindia - The babalog brigade couldn’t get better looking than this! Wait! This plus ‘Royalty’ - how can our hearts not skip a beat or two!?

17. Chetan Bhagat - Something about men who can write…the mystery, that’s what keeps us interested.

18. Rahul Dravid - The hottie on the Indian cricket team, Rahul Dravid’s unassuming charm tickles our senses like noone elses, when he’s on the cricket ground.

19. Imtiaz Ali - Had we met this ‘Jab We Met’ director before his marriage, life would have been a lot sweeter!

20. Shaan - Shaan’s voice could transport us into another realm altogether. Now, if only Radhika would give us the entry code to that realm.

21. Ayaan Ali Khan- Ayaan’s lineage claims to have invented the Sarod! Neema is holding on tight to this one but allow him to strum a bit for us!

22. Purab Kohli - This Channel V jockey’s cute smile can break a million hearts. We only wish it was breaking ours instead of Yamini’s.

23. Baichung Bhutia - Doesn’t take much to be wanted if you are a footballer! Madhuri should know…we can only hope to find out!

24. Homi Adajania - Homi’s myriad talents are enough to catch our attention. Oh but wait! Anaita has already caught it.

25. DJ and MTV VJ Nikhil Chinappa - Nikhil doesn’t seem to age and neither does his sense of humour! DJ Pearl should keep him in a cage, lest, we get naughty!

26. Vishwanathan Anand - With his meteoric rise in international chess, Vishwanathan left us astounded at check mate. Oh! Let’s check with his mate Aruna first!

27. Shekhar Ravjiani of Vishal-Shekhar - A trained classical singer and a daughter named Bipasha, this dreamy composer sure hits the right notes with his female audience at Zee’ popular show ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’. If only he wasn’t married!

28. Rajdeep Sardesai - We’ve seen him a hundred times on T.V but to sit and debate with him over a cuppa would be ideal. Sagarika, you listening?

29. Naveen Jindal - This charming tycoon could sweep us off our feet…we will gladly oblige. But alas, that task has already been done and here we are, still waiting!

30. Vikas Oberoi - Real estate billionaire with beautiful wife Gayatri Joshiin tow…need we say, we feel left out!

Femina makes the big 30 more exciting by associating with the film “Turning 30”. For more dope on turning 30, visit our facebook and twitter pages.

Can he handle a diva like you?

Does your man take your success in his stride? Can he handle your popularity among friends and peers alike? Take this quiz to find out if he can handle the prima donna that you are. By Baisakhi Roy

1) You have him open the car door for you every time you go out.
a) he does if he doesn’t have something more important to do
b) does offer a meek protest sometimes
c) opens the door every time
d) he starts ranting about how unfair his life is

2) You have just told him that you don’t like his best friend and he cannot call you anymore on your landline.
a) he doesn’t care, he calls his friend and tells him to call back later. On the same number.
b) he talks to him when you are not around
c) he says he will never speak to him and at once takes him off his Facebook page
d) he looks at you, startled and bursts into tears.

3) You gift him a Harley at his surprise birthday party with 50 guests in attendance and you laugh about how he gave you flowers for yours.
a) he pops a bottle of champagne and straddles the bike proudly
b) he tries to stay unnoticed for the rest of the party
c) he is busy networking with your boss and flirting with his wife
d) he is heard defending the flowers to the guests

4) You are voted “Businesswoman of the year” and have to attend a celebratory party with him
a) he dons his best suit for the occasion
b) he mysteriously develops a headache and does not want to go
c) he proposes marriage and asks if you would consider a pre-nup.
d) he gets drunk and makes a scene

5) You are on holiday and you insist on paying for everything
a) he does not mind you paying once in a while
b) he insists very loudly on paying when there are people around and then asks you to pay
c) he never pays, you earn more than him don’t you?
d) he threatens to break up with you

Mostly a’s: He is a solid man, comfortable in his success. He can take your bad behaviour and dish some in return too. Don’t push him too far or else might just up and leave.

Mostly b’s: He’s embarrassed easily and suffers from self esteem problems. His manhood is threatened by any gesture, big or small. You are better off without him

Mostly c’s: He is in a comfort zone of another kind. He will let you walk all over him and after a while it won’t feel so good. A man who can stand up to you is way better than a doormat. Tread carefully; he might just get comfortable mooching off you for life.

Mostly d’s: Clearly he’s made the wrong choice. You can break this man with a whisper and then who do you go out with?

Being fishy helps

If fitness is your mantra and you desire to see yourself able-bodied as you age, fish oil can help, says research. Just keep the intake natural, caution experts. Priti Salian discusses the pros and cons of this wonder oil.

What is fish oil?
Fish oil is derived from the tissues of fish. “Fish oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a ratio which is good for the human body,” says Dr. Balbir Singh, Chairman, Department of Cardiology, Medanta Medicity, Gurgaon. Essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 are not manufactured in the body but are needed for important physiological functions. These should thus be taken in through food and fish oil is the best source of these fatty acids.

One oil, many benefits

Reduces pain and inflammation
Fish oil can reduce pain and inflammation in the body even when it is caused by arthritis. The anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids not only provides relief but also protects against further damage, says research. The anti-inflammatory effects also make it effective for psoriasis.

Lowers triglycerides
High triglycerides in the body are linked with heart diseases. For reduction of heart disease, it is essential to maintain a certain level of triglycerides in the body. Just like exercising and restricting fats in your diet helps, so does the intake of fish oil. “Fish oil not only reduces triglycerides, it also improves good cholesterol,” says Dr. Singh.

Prevents heart attacks
Consumption of fish oil also weakens the chances of a healthy person getting a heart blockage. “The incidence of coronary heart disease also diminishes,” says Dr. Singh. You can also look forward to a healthy life without any high blood pressure problems if you include fish oil in your diet. It is said that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have a tendency to expand blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.

Eases menstrual pain
This one is a boon for all women. If you consume fish oil either alone or along with Vitamin B12, it can bring down your menstrual pain. So, add fish in your diet today and cut down on pain killers!

Slows down bone loss
While you still need to take your calcium regularly, it is a good idea to include fish oil in your diet to slow down bone loss which leads to osteoporosis.

How to consume fish oil?
“The best way to consume fish oil is by having fish 2-3 times a week,” says Dr. Singh. Eating any fish will help, though fatty fish is recommended, asserts the Padma Shree awardee. Fish oil is available in the form of supplements as well. “But consumption of supplements is not recommended unless your doctor advises so,” says Dr. Singh. They may not contain the correct amount of fatty acids needed by the body and may not help you at all. “In fact, they can cause allergic reactions and diarrhoea as well,” cautions Dr. Singh.

The most important thing about fish oil is its omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio. If fish oil is not your thing, incorporate olive oil in your cooking. “Olive oil is the next best thing to fish oil when it comes to the fatty acid ratio,” says Dr.Singh. Similarly, you can also include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids separately in your diet. “Flax seed, canola oil, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and soy are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids,” says Preethi Rahul, Registered Dietician, Mumbai. “For consumption of omega-6, you can include sunflower, safflower or corn oil in your diet,” she adds.

So the next time you dig into a delicious fatty fish, indulge guilt free…you know it’s good for you!

Go on, get defensive!

Learning self defence tops any girl's to-do list. And it needn't be the hardest thing in the world. In fact, being the victim may not be such a bad thing...Baisakhi Roy attended a Krav session and came out learning more than how to get out of a choke hold

Not a martial art
Be it the Brazilian Jujitsu or the Filipino Kali, there are a set of rules and traditional moves that you need to remember and practice. Krav, on the other hand, teaches you to hone your instincts and be fearless. “There are no limitations in Krav. Whatever be the mode of attack, whatever be the size of the attacker, and whether he is armed or otherwise, Krav teaches you simple and effective split-second responses,” says renowned Krav Maga instructor, Rob Ferreira, who learnt to fight under Darren Levine, one of the highest ranked instructors in the United States.

There are no limitations to who can train as well. “The best part about Krav Maga is that it doesn’t require any pre requisites like a particular physique, physical strength levels or age. Anyone who’s interested and passionate about Krav Maga can learn it,” says Vicky Kapoor of Krav Maga India.

Better than the gym
Krav teaches you how to strengthen muscles that you actually use and not just the functional muscles that are worked upon at the gym. The arms and shoulders need to be strong if one is up against a much stronger adversary. Thighs and legs have to be strong enough to put the two-headed approach to practice. This approach is about being able to cause damage to the face-eyes area and the groin area simultaneously, causing serious hurt.

Ideal for women
So why is being the victim good? The element of surprise! Women are perceived to not hit back, be afraid, and either give in or try to escape. The last thing they are expected to do is fight. When they attack the attacker, it comes as a surprise! Women have to capitalise on that one moment of shock to attempt to release themselves, counterattack, and flee.

Feeds aggression
Krav pumps up the primal gene in you to thundering heights. But anger is good if channelled and better still if used to defend oneself. “Everyone, man, woman, child, should have a fighting chance. Krav teaches you deadly moves that are very easy to learn. We feed the killer instinct in you by putting you through harrowing sessions of physical endurance,” says Ferreira. Krav is the official self defence system of Israel. This form of combat was developed for use in the street, the body being the only deadly weapon.

Don’t focus on weight loss
“A lot of women read about assault against women and other crimes happening in our society/environment. They realise that it is very important to learn some form of self defence for their own safety. However, once they join self defence classes, their attention shifts from self defence to either weight loss or fitness,” says Kapoor.

Krav is a full body workout, thanks to the endurance exercises that are taught before combat training. The focus is on constant practice and repetition, the most effective defences against surprise attacks and instinctive use of force under stress.

A history of Krav
Krav Maga is Hebrew for “contact combat”. In this system, a person is encouraged to adapt techniques and their special abilities. The system was originally developed by Imi Lichtenfeld during Israel’s War of Independence. It is taught in various Military and Law enforcement facilities all over the world.

Principles
To avoid injury
Devise drills that take advantage of natural reflexes
Defend and attack in minimum time required
Use of the body’s vulnerable spotsv Krav Maga teaches defence against punches and kicks, bear hugs and chokes, knives and clubs, guns, and multiple attackers
The only rule: no rules

Photo credits: Nathaniel Archambault and Krav Maga Toronto

Hot, hot yoga

It makes you grateful for the fresh, chilly air of a winter morning. It's proven to shrink those body sizes and blast toxins and stress right out. But it's not as pleasant or easy as a Suryanamaskar. Baisakhi Roy sweats it out in a gruelling class of hot yoga

No sweat
Quite the opposite is true for this form of yoga which is fast becoming a hot trend for women who want the pounds to melt away. Indeed, it is a very effective way to lose weight. “The room is set at 35-40 degrees, which is ideal. The heat warms up the muscles and joints. Then we proceed to twists, stretches, compression and pranayama (deep breathing). It’s a complete workout,” says Isabel Lambert, Director and teacher at Tula Yoga Spa in downtown Toronto. Hot yoga teachers insist that this form of exercise requires consistency; it is not a weight loss pill. A person has to practice hot yoga with regularity to achieve visible results.

Complete detox
The main focus in regular yoga is breathing. The emphasis here is on detoxification, with the heat pushing your body to the limit. The exercises tone and sculpt the body, the heart and lungs receive a work out, and the digestive system gets cleansed. There is deep purification throughout the body, including most of the internal organs. The lymphatic system is massaged and stimulated. The result is a more toned body with increased flexibility!

Heat it up!
The first hurdle that a hot yoga newbie faces is getting through the heat factor. 15-20 minutes into a session and your body begins to get used to the discomfort. Some newcomers may feel nauseous but that passes too, if you take it easy. Lots of breaks when you can simply lie down and breathe, along with sips of water, are recommended. Pregnant women and people with heart conditions are required to consult a doctor before attempting hot yoga because of the heat and the elevation of the heart rate. The humidity levels could go up to 60% in a hot yoga session.

The perfect wellness experience
With the purification and cleansing of the digestive and respiratory systems comes good internal organ health. Hot yoga is the ultimate relaxation technique. The detoxification results in stress release, good hormonal balance, and rejuvenation of all internal organs. A calmer mind and increased energy leads to more awareness and feelings of contentment and well being. This often translates into an immediate improvement in your skin’s appearance. Who needs a spa anymore?

Take your pick
There is a choice between a slower, more structured class and a vigorous, power yoga class. Relaxed and serene or nimble and stretched, whatever be your preference, you can alter a hot yoga session to suit you. Both ways, there is intense sweating and the heart rate lunges. Couple that with the internalisation of the breathing process and you have a great package for the mind, body, and soul!

Be warned
Keep yourself hydrated
Bring towels; the sweat could make your yoga mat slippery
Avoid hot yoga if you are pregnant or have a heart condition
Consult your doctor
Learn from a certified practitioner

Currying flavour with the East with Gauhar Khan

Actor Gauhar Khan has an Oriental fetish when it comes to food. Chef Dinakiran Khaling rustles up some Far Eastern delights for her. By Anupa Shah

Burmese Kaukse
A thick coconut milk-based curry with the crunchiness of vegetables and the touch of Far Eastern spices.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Serves: Two

Ingredients
. 1 tbsp ginger, chopped
. 10 flakes garlic
. 1 tbsp onions, chopped
. 1 tbsp vegetable oil
. ½ tsp turmeric powder
. 1 tsp mixed spice powder
. 800 ml coconut milk
. 30 g button mushroom, sliced
. 30 g broccoli florets
. 20 g carrot, sliced
. 20 g bell peppers, sliced
. 20 g zucchini, diced
. 30 g baby corn, cubed
. 2 tsp sugar
. salt, to taste
. 1 tsp lime juice
. 180 g rice noodles

Condiments
. 1 tbsp fresh red chilli, chopped
. 100 g fried onions
. 1 tbsp celery, chopped
. 1 tbsp fried garlic flakes
. 30 g fresh cilantro
. 3 lemon wedges

Method
1. Grind the ginger, garlic, and onion to a paste.
2. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the paste, and stir for a few seconds. Add the turmeric powder, mixed spice powder, coconut milk, and then all the vegetables.
3. Simmer over low heat till it comes to a boil. Add the sugar, salt, and lime juice. Let it simmer for a few more minutes.
4. Bring 500 ml water to boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Stir in the noodles and cook for two minutes. Drain and place in a serving bowl with the curry and condiments.

Chili basil chicken
A chicken dish with eastern spices, a dash of basil, and mushrooms. Goes well as a starter or main course.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Serves: Two

Ingredients
. 2 tbsp oil
. 250 g chicken breast, thinly sliced
. 1 tsp minced garlic
. 1 bunch fresh basil + 1 tsp, to garnish
. salt, to taste
. 1 tbsp fish sauce
. 1 tbsp oyster sauce
. ½ tsp sugar
. pinch of white pepper powder
. 1 tsp red chillies
. 3 pcs ginger, sliced
. 1 bell pepper, sliced
. 2 button mushrooms
. juice of ½ lemon

Method
1. Heat the oil in a wok. Add the chicken, garlic, and basil leaves and cook on low heat for 10 minutes.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and stir-fry for three minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining fresh basil.

Tempura vegetables
A crispy, batter-fried appetiser, spiked with the pungency of ginger and wasabi as accompaniments. Soy sauce pairs well as a sauce too.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes
Serves: Two

Ingredients
. ½ egg
. 200 ml ice cold water
. 300 g tempura flour (ready available or use 100g flour, 100 g potato flour, 100 g rice flour and a pinch of baking powder)
. 300 ml vegetable oil, for deep frying
. 100 g flour
. 1 zucchini, cut into 6 mm batons
. 1 onion, finely sliced
. 1 carrot, finely sliced
. 1 aubergine, sliced crosswise
. 1 bell pepper (capsicum), cut into thin strips
. 20 g green beans (french beans), chopped
. 4 asparagus, cut into medium-sized batons
. 1 daikon, grated (use raddish if unavailable)
. 1 tsp ginger, grated
. soy sauce and wasabi

Method
1. In a bowl, beat the egg lightly, add water, stir in tempura flour, and continue to beat lightly till the batter is slightly lumpy. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a deep frying pan for a few minutes.
3. Put flour on a plate. Roll all the vegetables in flour, shaking off all the excess, then dip into the tempura batter.
4. Fry the vegetables in the hot oil. Cook till golden brown on both sides. Then remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with a grated daikon topped with grated ginger and soy sauce or wasabi sauce.

Steamed fish Thai style
A delicious steamed fish bursting with flavours and spices with an Asian touch. It is healthy too, with less oil, and works well for a complete meal with steamed rice.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Serves: Two

Ingredients
. 350 g whole pomfret
. 2 tbsp rice wine
. ½ tsp salt
. ½ tsp white pepper powder
. 3 tbsp fish sauce
. 50 ml lime juice
. 1 stalk lemon grass, crushed
. 50 g onions, sliced
. 5 flakes garlic, crushed
. 2 scallions
. 4 bird eye chillies, chopped
. 50 g basil leaves, torn
. 20 g Thai ginger (galangal), chopped

Method
1. Slice the fish. Place the sliced pieces on a steaming plate.
2. Spread the remaining ingredients evenly over it.
3. Steam for 25 minutes. Serve with lime wedges and a chilli sauce.

Banana crepes
Wraps filled with a smooth sauce, bananas, and cream.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Serves: Four

Ingredients
. 200 g flour
. 50 g icing sugar
. 2 eggs
. 200 ml milk
. 3 tbsp butter, melted + 50 g butter
. 1 tsp vanilla essence
. ¼ tsp salt
. 50 g brown sugar
. ¼ tsp cinnamon powder
. ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
. 50 ml cream
. 6 bananas, sliced
. 200 ml whipped cream

Method
1. Sift flour and sugar in a bowl. Add eggs, milk, melted butter, essence, and salt; beat until smooth.
2. Heat a greased six-inch skillet. Add three teaspoons of the batter in a way that it spreads evenly on the skillet. Cook until lightly browned on both sides. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet.
3. Melt 50 g butter in a saucepan. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg powder. Add the cream and cook until the sauce is thick. Add half the bananas to the saucepan; cook for five minutes, spooning the sauce over them.
4. Roll a crépe around each banana half and place on a serving platter.
5. Spoon sauce over the crépes. Serve topped with cream.

Photographs by manpreet singh (gauhar khan), Prateeksh Mehra (food); Location; Zaffiro @ zaza (gauhar), Oriental Palate, Mumbai (food); Styling by Anupa Shah (food)

Chef Dinakiran Khaling is the head chef at Oriental Palate, Mumbai: “I usually like to have complete knowledge of every dish I prepare; from the ingredients, to the recipe, to its origin and history. This helps me improvise my culinary skills. Variations in customers’ tastes are a great educator as well.”

In the middle of the night you want to bite into…
Banana crepes or any banana dessert is irresistible. I have a sweet tooth. Anything that’s sweet works for me in the middle of the night.

A place you’d visit for the food?
When I was in Phuket, Thailand, I savoured fruits at the local stalls and sampled the most exquisite pineapples.

What’s the most vivid food memory you have?
My mother’s heavenly khichda, yakhni and aloo parathas. Like most people, I love my mother’s culinary creations.

Have you goofed up with food or had a disaster?
I am a fairly decent cook. When I was young I used to cook this potato dish which my brother enjoyed, but he always cribbed about it falling short.

One idiot-proof recipe you swear by?
You marinate chicken breasts in garlic, ginger, basil, and oil and set aside for an hour. Put the chicken breasts in a pan and add tomato sauce to make some gravy. Add seasoning and let it cook over low heat.

Young, but not restless

As we celebrate National Youth Day, Asawari chats with 3 young women entrepreneurs and finds out how they have redefined youth with their passion, innovation, creativity, and dedication towards their work

‘At 24, it’s great to be your own boss!’
Says Shaheen Peerbhai who successfully runs a food blog purplefoodie.com, and a catering business in Mumbai with a huge fan following.

“My dad always told me that whatever I do when I grow up, I should ultimately only work for myself. That stuck in my head forever. Although I started my blog just to pamper my creative juices, I soon took it up as a full-time job of making customised cakes and savouries on order.”

“I believe that innovation is integral these days and the youth of today are really passionate and hungry to express themselves differently, which works well even for me. What set purplefoodie.com apart is that not only is it just a click away but that it offers innovative recipes like chocolate cinnamon babka or the Nutella pinwheel cookies that one has never heard of. “

“And the best part is I’m receiving tremendous response…that’s probably why I foresee myself opening my own dessert café someday! But the key to making it all possible is to dream and make sure you make it happen.”

‘Go out and do all that you think you can. Age is not an excuse.’
Vriti Jatia did just that. She is a 23 year old fashion designer who owns a youth brand called ‘Vriti’.

“I cater to the age group of 25-40 and my designs are an exact impression of my thinking. Although during my start-up days I had to face many loose threads, but risk is something one has to take anywhere…then why not take it in something you are really passionate about? I didn’t even hesitate to take the support of my family and friends and well, it worked.”

“After all, everyone welcomes new things in life. And youngsters now have the personalities and sheer determination to deliver. That’s probably why even I ensure that my work interweaves a lot of creativity and novelty…that is sure to make my creations showstoppers!”

“India is changing and the youth is its tomorrow. There is nothing like the old and young and that’s why my message to all the youngsters is ‘Go achieve it!’”

‘Youth is the power of today.’
Meet another young woman entrepreneur, Komal Lath, all of 24 years of age. She manages ‘Tute Consult’, a communications consultancy for lifestyle and entertainment clients.

“The name is aptly taken from that of an Egyptian ruler ‘Tutankhamen’ who was young, rich, and restless. It is the same mantra that drives my company as well! The services my company offers are not what you would find on any other shelf because we offer our clients a package of total integrated communication. Although many clients still expect a conference room with PowerPoint presentations and jacketed MBAs, they are open to listening to the new ideas of the youth.”

“I too am in the youth brigade and being my own boss is what will make me grow. What worked for me and what might work for other youngsters is that when you are doing what you like, you love burning the midnight oil! Success is then inevitable.”

The Enchantress

India's first test tube baby, youngest girl magician record holder, artistic illusionist, lecturer in engineering...all this at just 26! Can you get more intriguing than this? Kruti Parekh, currently a contestant on India's Magic Star, talks to Prachi S. Vaish about her life, work, and first love - magic

‘Magic is my birthright’
She was created by the magical hands of Dr. Patrick Steptoe and Dr. Robert G. Edwards (who was recently awarded the Nobel prize on Oct 4th) in London; truly India’s first test tube baby, born on the 29th of June, 1984…nothing short of a miracle!

This special gift makes her believe that “magic is my birthright because I was born from the magic of science. I didn’t realise when magic consumed me…it just happened. All I remember is that ever since I gained sense, I wanted to be a magician. It was very difficult at first because I couldn’t find a mentor. Nobody took me seriously and only when I could replicate their tricks in front of them, did they start to notice me! There was a time when I even received threats to stop my attempts at performing tricks but one day the same people were calling up to offer their congratulations!”

‘I am an entertaining magician’
“I love to entertain my audience and give them a lot of variety. No two of my items are alike. The more the risk, the better I love the show!” Where on one hand Kruti can drink acid and walk on fire, she is also an expert on ancient Indian magic and yogic feats.

‘Many feathers in my cap’
A mind trainer, Kruti helps people cross various hurdles in their lives. She is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest artistic illusionist in the world. She is the only magician so far offering a course in magic through Mumbai University and in her own Magic Academy. She avers that “this is my way of giving back to magic what it has given to me.”

She has penned a book called ‘Beyond the Threshold of Mind’ where she “highlights the power of the human mind to be able to achieve seemingly impossible feats by transcending the barriers that we humans erect in our own minds.” She has another in the pipeline where she has tried to make the Bhagvad Gita reachable to the youth in the contemporary setting. She claims that the teachings of the Gita are so versatile that they can be applied in today’s world to management and finance. Currently a lecturer at the D.J. Sanghvi College of Engineering and NMIMS University, Mumbai, she declares, “My aim is to revive what has existed in our culture for eons but is only now being affirmed.”

“My work is only centred towards youth and children. I wish to bring stability in their actions and thoughts through the training of their minds and enhance their focus in life.”

‘I was bowled over by the Omar Pasha show!’
This lady might leave everyone stunned in their seats but an Omar Pasha show she saw in her early years left an impression on her mind. And her own favourite tricks? “I put so much of energy, hard work, and preparation into each performance that each item turns into my favourite trick. It’s like asking a mother to choose her favourite child. Impossible!”

“There is so much more for me to do in the field of magic that trying to pick a favourite would be unfair; I haven’t even begun exploring yet!”

‘Yet another ‘First’ to my name’
She reveals that she is preparing for a never-seen-before show for India due to be out soon but the details are still under wraps because it’s going to be huge! When asked about her future wishes she boldly avows that, “Since there are so many firsts to my name, I wish to add one more…I want to be the first magician ever to perform in space.” Wow! Now that’s sure to be a ‘stellar’ performance!

De-stress with Abhyanga

An Abhyanga massage can prevent stress, enhance your beauty and cut down a series of diseases. Resmi Jaimon explores why and how you should make Abhyanga a part of your wellness routine

Stress adversely affects your body and a massage coupled with the benefits of Ayurvedic oils can significantly control this damage. Abhyanga, an Ayurvedic oil massage known for enhancing beauty and curing diseases, especially works on relieving you of collective tensions.

What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is a rejuvenation therapy carried out using medicated-oil body massages. The oil used is usually warmed and massaged either on a particular part of the body or on the entire body. “You can enhance whichever body part you choose, like the face, hands or feet or opt for a full body treatment which is meant for body detoxification,” says Dr. Ruchi Gulati, Director, Sukh Ayurveda Namaste.

What makes it great?
Abhyanga benefits those who suffer from painful disorders like arthritis, spondylitis, and paralysis. It improves digestion and vision. It’s especially good for those suffering from insomnia since it induces sleep. Abhyanga increases longevity, strengthens body tolerance and decreases the effects of ageing. It improves blood circulation resulting in a better body complexion.

Customised treatments for you!
“There are more than 150 formulations of medicated oils available in the market, which can be used by considering the prakriti or the condition of the patients,” opines Dr. Gulati. She gives us a quick glance at some of the oils used for Abhyanga:

In Vata prakriti: Dhanwantraram tailam, Sahacharadi tailam etc.
In Pitta prakriti: Madhuyashtindi tailam, Pinda tailam etc.
In Kapha prakriti: Sahacharadi tailam, Prabhanjanam tailam etc.
In Vata ailments: Dhanwantaram tailam, Balaswagandhadi Kuzhambuv
In Pitta ailments: Balaguluchiadi tailam, Pinda tailam etc.
In Kapha ailments: Kottamchukkadi tailam, Chinchadi tailam etc.

Sesame, sunflower and coconut oils are used as bases to prepare these Ayurvedic oils.

An hour of bliss
Each Abhyanga session consists of 45-90 minutes, but the duration of each course depends upon the individual body type (prakriti) and the diseases. On an average, the number of days involved varies from 14-21, if you are taking Abhyanga to cure an illness. A person with Vatta constituency is suggested to take Abhyanga daily, Pitta on alternate days, and Kapha twice a week. A session costs approximately Rs.600-1,000.

Dietary precautions you must take
To achieve better results, special care is required while taking Ayurvedic treatments. “Avoid fried and bakery foods. You should consume only easily digestible foods. Do not take food for at least two hours prior to the treatment session to improve digestion. If the stomach is full, the undigested food may get absorbed,” advices Dr. Gulati.

When to avoid Abhyanga?
For people who have Kapha kind of disorders, doctors recommend other treatments. “If you have indigestion, do not go for Abhyanga,” adds Dr. Gulati.

If you are looking to revitalise your body, mind and soul, spare some time from your busy schedule, indulge in an Abhyanga massage and step towards a healthier you!

Get your treatment here:

Santhigiri Ayurveda Hospital
C 89, Shivalik,
Geetanjali Marg,
Near Malviya Nagar,
New Delhi 110017
Phone: 011 - 32421077 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 011 - 32421077 end_of_the_skype_highlighting / 26681940
Santhigiri Ayurveda & Siddha Vaidyasala has centres across Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa, Assam, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, etc: http://www.santhigiriashram.org/ashram/ayurveda%20and%20sidda4.htm

Vaidyaratnam P. S. Varier’s Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal
Ayurvedic Hospital and Research Centre
Kottakkal (P.O.),
Malappuram (Dist.),
Kerala - 676 503
Phone: 0483 - 2742216 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0483 - 2742216 end_of_the_skype_highlighting / 17 / 18 / 19
http://www.aryavaidyasala.com

Ashwini Ayurvedic Hospital & Research Centre
27/28, Hari Om,
RDP - 1, Gorai - 1,
Borivali West,
Mumbai 400 091
Phone: 022 - 29670462 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 022 - 29670462 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.ashwiniayurvedic.com

Sukh Ayurveda,
D-17 (Ground Floor),
Sector 20,
Noida, U.P.
Phone: 0120 - 4270770 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0120 - 4270770

What’s going to rock your routine?

After a heavy spell of partying, you are sure to feel sluggish and totally beat up. Here's something to beat the post-party blues and get in to the groove once more.

These latest trends that are guaranteed keep gym fatigue away and have you on the bounce.

BRAZILIAN WORKOUT GEAR
Brazilian gear is all the inspiration you’ll ever need to make that trip to the gym. So, before you step onto the treadmill, get your gear right. “Brazilians are naturally very sexy,” says fitness expert Deanne Pandey, “and their workout gear has the best fit.” Already a favourite among stars like Bipasha Basu and Katrina Kaif, the gear comes in bright, funky colours and is very flattering. It evens out flabby butts and sagging thighs-it’s all about looking and feeling good.

BIOMECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
Imagine a workout where your body twists and turns to the principles of a machine. With biomechanical machines, you’re applying the laws of mechanics to your workout. “You’ll never get injured using them,” says Deanne. “These machines have a wide range of movements that work the muscles well. The best part is that they can be used by people of all age groups and fitness levels.” The machines’ seats are set on a rocking motion that adds a new dimension to the workout, making it more fun.

ORGANIC FOOD
“Organic food is high in fibre andis very beneficial, especially to those on a weight loss diet,” says dietician Kajal Khaturia.Nutritionist Niti Desai advises people to go organic and avoid animal products like milk, eggs and meat. “These animals are fed chemicals/hormones and they are often reared in bad conditions,” she adds, saying organic options should be considered for vegetables and fruits that are not peeled, such as cabbage, strawberries, apples, grapes and bell peppers. Pesticides and chemical residues in food have been linked to diseases such as cancer and obesity, as well as birth defects. And since the production uses natural methods, eating organic food means you are taking care of your health and doing your bit for the environment. Organic food is available in stores and under brand names like Conscious Food, Fabindia, Food Bazaar and Navdanya in your city.

WII FITNESS
If your idea of working out involves playing a video game, it’s time to take notice of the Nintendo Wii, with the new Wii Fit add-on, slated for an India launch. This is how it works: the console comes with a platform or Balance Board that reads your body mass index based on your height. Using the platform, you can choose from a variety of virtual workouts shown on your TV screen, which is connected to the console. The benefits? You can try a new workout every day-from jogging, hula-hooping, boxing to even skiing.

AIKIDO
Aikido, the ancient, Japanese martial art, is definitely making its presence felt. “Aikido training is a complete martial arts workout,” says Shalini Bhargava, director, JG’s Fitness Centre, Mumbai. “It’s not just about the physical moves and techniques; it also involves learning how to gain control over the mind and keeping it together in stressful situations.” Deanne explains that it is a very high-intensive cardiovascular routine that burns calories effectively. However, she warns that it is only for those who are serious about it as a disciplined art.

BOOT CAMP
Talking about discipline, boot camp, an outdoor army-style training, is great for those who love the outdoors. You can expect a variety of exercises, such as tug-of-war and sand bag training, combined with yoga and Pilates. “After doing consistent commando boot camp training, you can expect to see a rise in endurance and speed levels, an increase in muscle and reduction in fat,” says Prameet Kotak, a Mumbai-based boot camp trainer. “It’s very demanding, but also fun, as the group setting brings out the competitive spirit in participants.”

FUNCTIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING
This training involves activities targeted at those muscle groups that are not used in everyday tasks-the abdominals and the back. “Over a period of time, functional training helps improve balance, endurance and coordination,” says Althea Shah, general manager-operations, Gold’s Gym India. “It involves using medicine balls, stability balls, elastic bands, etc.” It teaches the body to integrate the use of both strong and weak muscles, which leads to both becoming stronger, adds Shalini. It’s the perfect kind of training if you play a lot of sports and want to build flexibility, coordination and endurance too.

TAEBO
A much faster and varied version of kickboxing, Taebo is all the rage in the West. A combination of fast, high-energy kicks and punches along with karate moves, Taebo is known to be a great cardiovascular workout. “Not only is Taebo very effective in weight loss, but also builds a lot of endurance and stamina,” says Althea Shah, general manager-operations, Gold’s Gym India. The difference between kickboxing and Taebo is that kickboxing needs a punching bag, while Taebo can be practiced freehand. Because Taebo is a high-impact workout, Althea warns that if not done correctly, it can cause long-term injuries.

Personal trainers
Shah Rukh Khan had help from personal fitness trainer Prashant Sawant to get those washboard abs for OSO, while fitness trainer Rujuta Diwekar was responsible for Kareena Kapoor’s toned figure in Tashan. Getting help from a professional seems to be the most popular and best way to get fit. A personal trainer can customise your workout keeping your fitness goals, lifestyle and objectives in mind. “Fitness trainers counsel their clients on the kind of workouts they need and monitor them regularly,” says Shalini. “It is a good idea to have one, as doing exercises incorrectly or in the wrong form can lead to serious long-term injuries.” The larger fitness chains offer certified fitness trainers. Check your trainer’s qualifications and references before signing up.

Ooze elegance this winter!

Say hello to the chic winter style that imbibes the "First Lady" look. Timeless, classic and always in vogue, this look can be adorned everyday. Fashion stylist Shruti Kothari tells you how

Start by keeping in mind the timeless wardrobe basics. The designs, fabrics and colours are essential; if you have all these right, half the battle is won! Next, it’s all about putting it all together. Remember, a classic sense of winter chic is not about going out and buying all the fads possible. It’s about investing in the right winter wear!

The chic top coat!
A coat in black, grey or camel is a must have. You will be spoilt for choice in styles, designs and colours. Pick one that suits your body. It could be woollen, a long A-line silhouette, single breasted, of a solid shade and perhaps even with a dramatic collar or sleeve. Take this and team it with a scarf or a dignified string of pearls for a classy exemplified persona.

Pair it right
Team your classy coat with a black, cream or grey skirt or one that matches the colour of the coat. If you are going for a casual chic look, a pair of dark blue jeans, a pair of woollen trousers or even a pair of tweed trousers is de-rigueur in the winter wardrobe. Throw in sweaters or cardigans in browns, blacks, whites, reds and beiges. Silk or satin blouses in bright colours or in subtle shades of cream and beige help light up a dreary winter morning.

Sheath it
Another fashion essential is the sheath dress. It’s simple, refined and elegant! Preferably of the princess cut, pick up one in a bright colour - fire red, fuchsia, bottle green or cobalt. Make sure it’s of a flattering length and has an old-school jewel neckline. Try pairing this dress with a high black belt, a string of pearls and lace gloves up to the elbow or even just up to the wrists. You could also throw in a dark-hued cardigan and slick pumps. Tie a looped silk scarf and carry a stunning bejewelled leather clutch and voila! Keep in mind that the wilder the print or colour of the garment, the more classic the cut should be. The tension between a conservative cut and an edgy colour is what creates the style.

Don’t forget the frills!
Accessories play a vital role in attaining the ‘First Lady’ look, especially shawls, hosiery, gloves and scarves. You can either opt for a silk square neatly tied and tucked into a sweater or go in for a “knotted scarf sitting outside the collar” kind of look. Long cashmere scarves teamed with jackets and coats are stylish and sexy! With shawls, choose wisely and drape well. Add a brooch to keep the shawl in place; a beautiful brooch can change the look of an ensemble altogether. Keep in mind that the colours of both scarves and shawls must compliment your outfit. Gloves in leather, cashmere, lace or light wool add a touch of refinement to the entire look. Hosiery, if you intend to wear it, must be in neutral tones matching the skirt and the shoes.

To get this look right, attention to detail is a must. Combine different garments with “one-of-a-kind” accessories and up your individual style quotient. Take a cue from the elegant Mrs. O, even the colour of her coat’s lining or a belt that she has clinched over an unbuttoned cardigan oozes panache!

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.

Foodbytes: Food Confessions

Professional chef, recipe developer, and aspiring locavore Elizabeth Nyland's blog Guilty Kitchen is actually quite guilt free! Promoting fresh locally available ingredients and a zero mile diet, her recipes and photographs appear deliciously crisp and healthy discovers Rajani Mani

Speaking of her childhood, Elizabeth says in her blog “the child of an avid hunter and gardener, lean years in my family were filled with plenty of wild caught protein and home grown produce, giving me a true appreciation for local food”. A truly free spirited foodie, when asked about where she sources her recipes from, Elizabeth replied with “from my own mind. They often come to me in my sleep!” Here’s more from that conversation…

What inspires you to blog?
“My blogging inspiration began with learning where the food was coming from, for my first born son. I had dabbled in food knowledge before, even becoming a vegetarian for a number of years because I just didn’t want to deal with where most of North America’s meat comes from. My child inspired in me a thirst for the knowledge of what goes into our food. Namely that it not contain poisonous chemicals or be treated inhumanely or that the workers who make it are also treated fairly. I also love to write, so it is an amazing vehicle for my soul.”

Have you always loved to cook?
“From the time I was a small child, I always wanted to help in the kitchen. My mother would leave detailed instructions for me on how to cook dinner when she would not be home in time to do it herself. From there it led to working in kitchens as my first job, taking chef’s training and cooking with many restaurants for about seven years.”

Has blogging made you more adventurous when it comes to trying out new recipes?
“Absolutely! One of the biggest hurdles in food blogging is coming up with new material for every week. I cannot have the same recipe more than once, so I am always making new recipes and filling up notebooks as I go. I have almost two hundred original recipes so far.”

Tell us about food from your part of the world.
“I live on Vancouver Island, on the West Coast of British Columbia, surrounded by ocean on all sides, so we have a huge amount of seafood here. My favourites include Sockeye salmon and Dungeness crab. On this island there are also numerous cheese makers, artisan bread makers, vineyards, farms, etc. I love digging deep to find all the local goodies I can get my hands on.”

Your favourite cooking smell?
“Without a doubt, it is bacon. If I could not have bacon, then the smell of apple pie baking is a close second.”

5 ingredients you just can’t do without?
“Butter, flour, salt, Dijon mustard and garlic.”

Other than the knife, is there a kitchen tool that you can’t do without?
“My microplane.”

What would you like your last meal to be?
“I would want the following: Appetizer: Prosciutto wrapped goat cheese stuffed figs, grilled on the BBQ; Entrée: Steamed Dungeness crab with clarified garlic butter; Side dish: Mashed potatoes with truffle oil drizzled over and roasted asparagus; Dessert: No need to worry about calories, right? Dark chocolate mocha cake with a whipped cream mocha frosting and ganache poured over. Here’s the recipe…”

DARK CHOCOLATE MOCHA CAKE
Ingredients
2 cups dark brown sugar, packed
1 3/4 cups pastry flour
3/4 cup good quality Dutch Process Cocoa
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup hot strong coffee (or 1 tbsp instant coffee with 1 cup hot water)

Method
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange racks in middle of oven. Grease 29” round pans and line bottoms with parchment paper (makes removal of this ultra-moist cake easier).
2. Stir dry ingredients together.
3. Add eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla to dry mix. Mix for 2 minutes with a whisk.
4. Pour in hot coffee and mix thoroughly.

5. Pour into pans and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and cool in pans for 20 minutes or more before turning onto wire rack to completely cool. Serve with whipped cream mocha frosting and ganache poured over.

For more delicious servings with a local spin, head over to Elizabeth Nyland’s blog Guilty Kitchen.