Tell us about yourself
I fear not the life that I have been given to live, while change has been my only constant. I’m a fire spirit, born in Calcutta, India. From the age of 4, I began an adventure with my intrepid parents and we set on the migrant path. From Calcutta to the Gulf to small town Canada, swimming and tennis, all kinds of odd jobs for survival and forest adventures with friends nurtured my formative years. After a couple of years in university, I realized that academia was not for me. After 8 years of spending my teens in Canada, I dropped out of university and moved back to Calcutta where my parents had also eventually returned. The next few years I found myself blissed out with photography work, traveling the length and breath of India and reconnecting to my motherland and my family.
In need of change and heeding the call, I moved to Nairobi, Kenya. The 6 years I spent there, were the most radical, mind and heart opening years so far in my life. I studied Journalism, started a sustainable clothing line and pursued documentary and fashion photography. My true idea of a gypsy life came calling eventually and manifested itself when I found my way to an incredible community of travellers and Kenyans involved in a traditional boat and community building project aboard Musafir. Around the same time I hitchhiked my way across Kenya and Uganda using no money, just barter economy. As the trade winds blew, at some point, I eventually decided that I needed to stop, integrate and make new roads for myself towards somewhere I could pause for a while. While I had spent the last decade learning how to co-exist with others, my last move, which has been to Goa has been a sharp learning curve in figuring out how to co-exist with myself! Currently, I am engaged with my string art commissions, photo shoots, festival production and my work within the global Tantra and Meditation community. My life has been truly blessed, every blind corner has always revealed a chance to change, adapt and grow.
How do you inhabit the spaces and time that surround you in daily life?
Like in most place, these days have slowed down considerable, I am moving slower, with a light foot and a light heart. Every evening is filled with music, chatter and a ritualistic havan. Though I have always found ways to grow plants, these days there is more child-like, wide-eyed curiosity in me for my own homemade ecosystem - its daily care and upkeep. I’ve been able to spend hours observing birds weaving their nests and wasps making mud huts, whilst sipping on herbal brews from my own kitchen garden. My partner and I spend days planting new seeds, replanting, and pruning. There is a beautiful river that my home overlooks and watching it ebb and flow daily, with all the different lights and colours it etches, never gets old. The spaces in my home, the art, photographs, and chalkboard scribbles on its walls, sooths me. I’ve also had the pleasure of being surrounded by the warm scent of hearty lunches and the happy banter of visitors who often come home for dinner.
What does movement mean to you in life?
Today's movement has become about the little things. There was a point in my life when I wanted nothing more than to be rooted somewhere. After living 30 years of my life in some sort of constant physical trajectory, I finally have a home with an intensive root system. I think these plant roots are a physical manifestation of my soul’s desire although I know that it doesn’t mean I will be here forever. The need to physically move my body has been extremely pertinent. I've been used to walking everywhere, all the cities I have lived in have supported this habit. However, Goa isn't like that. Here you need to ride to get to most places. So I have had to make a conscientious effort to stay active. Now movement, for me, are hikes in the forest, long swims in the sea and dancing whenever the music feels good.
What trajectory has it embarked upon in recent months?
Currently I am working on string art commissions, photoshoots and festival production. I am also engaged with the global Tantra and Meditation community. I often find myself jumping in and out of the restaurant industry because I love service, production, food, and creating rich experiences for my community - whoever or wherever that might be. My partner and I spend most of our free time cooking, talking about food, shopping for ingredients we can’t grow and growing those we can. Though we live in a flat, we have a wild balcony full of incredible biodiversity. I truly believe that my journey of knowing myself has been influenced largely by nature and her many lessons.
What has been your most challenging point of adaptation in your life? Did it empower you? If yes, how?
My life has been truly blessed and every blind corner has always revealed a chance to change, adapt and grow. I believe that the universe has always been kind to me - giving me plenty of guidance, having my back, and keeping me safe while I’ve lived my wildness. I feel a real sense of protection and trust in the universe and hope to inspire those around me - not by preaching this but by living it.
I have spent a large part of these past 4 years in my own company to process many personal pains and struggles and have been taking things a day at a time. I came here expecting to find some sort of tribal family to coexist with. Instead, it has been a sharp learning curve to understand how to coexist with myself.
I feel like my heart is full to the brim, rich with experiences and content to know there are many more to come. I am at peace with whatever challenges lay ahead and know that I'm prepared now.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a Mechanical Engineer by Education; Growth Facilitator & Operations Specialist by Profession; Insane Workaholic, Weirdo Hustler, People's Person, Football Enthusiast, Adventure Seeker, Culture Vulture, Wanderlust & Believer of Spontaneity by Passion. I am a well-portioned blend of everyone I have encountered in my life, I had always been that go-to person for all my friends for fun, adventure, conversations, help, and sometimes inspiration and advice. In 2015, I then finally decided to be intentional about it. I started writing about my thoughts, and curious wonderings about our society. I started writing at “The Mustard Wall” with a mission to give others a taste of what goes on in my mind, also sometimes anything and everything that is interesting & exciting. We are all told to, “live life to the fullest”; I am here to do just that.
The Mustard Wall serves as a vessel to project my passions, and clue in my loyal readers as to what inspires me in this crazy world. My enthusiasm expands over a swathe of cross-functional activities and project management across technology, engineering, sports management, inclusion, sustainability & youth development. I believe that we should never confine ourselves, instead explore a new part of who we are every day. Since 2012, when I started my professional education, I always had an immense thirst for curiosity, that is how I became a member of IEEE, volunteered for football tournaments and also INK Talks, now 8 years down the lane, beyond my usual 9 - 5-day job that keeps my day busy, I manage IEEE activities across the globe, worked for FIFA, NBA & ISLand also worked for 5 editions of INK Talks. From sharing the stage with a NASA Scientist to getting featured on FIFA.com were all moments of happiness along the journey.
How do you inhabit the spaces and time that surround you in daily life?
Both space & time for me has two dimensions, one it’s needed & the other, the sense of feeling content being in there. I am an ambient high person, the space I am in and the people around me makes who I am, sometimes mild, extreme. Few things that keep me young are my indoor plants, my journals & my love for decluttering which is more of a therapy. In fact. I need all that natural light, some sunshine, breezy air, and people around me to call a space my home, and if it’s by the beach, then better
What does "Movement" mean to you and what trajectory has it embarked upon over the recent months?
Movement to me is the ability to be dynamic, both mentally & physically. More like being in a state of embracing spontaneous & sustainable changes within and around me. All of us until some point get lost in a void space fighting our own realities, movement here is that fix, to figure out who we are, how far we are, and what is it that makes us who we are. 5 years back, in a road accident, when 16 of my bones were damaged in a single shot, some broken, some smashed, I was bedridden for 6 months, beyond the fear of whether I will be able to move again, it was anxiety that crumbled my confidence. Post that trauma, I was physically very much inactive except for day to day chores & work travel. But over the last few months, when the whole world was under lockdown & all that people said was “COVID” was when a friend told me about her online Yoga classes and guess what the impulsive person I am said YES just so I can give it a try. Since then, I have fallen in love with this beautiful form of mental & physical discipline training. Fitness to me was never about the weight I lose or how I looked, it was about how strong I am and whether I can get to my 20th Floor apartment, even if the elevator isn’t working.
What gets you moving inside-out outside-in?
I am not that kind who gets high on intoxications, what I get high on are the people I meet, the places I go, the food I eat & the work I do. Very recently, the Calisthenics fanatic in me tried Yoga which to my surprise today is something I love & put my heart & soul into every time I get on the mat. Be it thoughts, emotions, or even decisions, I have always been an inside-out, outside-in person, the straight shot & clarity is all from the kind of aura I am surrounded with. I am a super restless being, mostly living on the edge & I truly enjoy and love the spontaneous movements that when put together make up my life. People & nature are two things that I never get tired of. It isn’t dreams that drives me, it’s passion & curiosity which does.
What has been your most challenging point of adaptation in your life? Did It empowers you if yes, how?
My most challenging point of adaptation was the self-realization of the fact that all of us are alone here and hence taking care of oneself is of utmost priority. Over the past 10 years, I am in a continuous journey of unlearning, more of which is, what the world calls, transition from Comfort zone to Growth Zone. This journey of unlearning has empowered the human being in me to explore beyond what I assume I can, think beyond what I dream about & look beyond who I am. Yet another challenging point of adaptation in my life was when I was recovering from my injuries, life seemed slower, it pushed me from within to be calmer and finding peace with it for years until I was sure my body is back in action was a task and today being able to embrace the happiness when I achieve my little milestones of strength & stamina goals lightens my heart and empowers me to look forward to yet another beautiful day.
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Mallika - is a theatre artist whose work looks into issues of gender equality predominantly. Over the years, she has worked towards creating a space for her own voice. She started a women’s collective, “Women Walk at Midnight”- an initiative that aims to kick back the gendering of movement through forbidden spaces at forbidden hours. Earlier this year, she also put together the Zanana Ensemble, born out of the widespread anti-CAA movement, to poetries of rebellion, songs of freedom, and a sense of political assertion of their identities, along with Sex Chat Room that opens up a non-judgmental space to speak about pleasure and desire. For Mallika, 'Movement' signifies aliveness: “For me, apart from its physical meaning, movement is emotional, social, and political.” Mallika has a special love for flowers and plants.
]]>I am a theatre artist and work predominantly with issues of gender. My performances deal with understanding the politics of the body - how it is placed in space and time and how it is gazed upon. Some works have also dealt with narratives around mental health, pleasure and desire. I am also drawn towards understanding collectives; how they perform, their strengths and weaknesses, especially against the backdrop of urban landscapes. I enjoy discovering the resonances of individuals within these collectives.
How do you inhabit the spaces and time that surround you in daily life?
I think women have complex relationships to space. Social spaces are challenging in that they don't automatically allow us to inhabit them in ways of our choosing. Space comes predefined to us. Then we have to redefine it for ourselves. I have worked hard, like many others, to carve out space in the world for myself, to build a home that feels like it is entirely mine, to give myself a voice that doesn't get muzzled. I do experience a certain possibility of timelessness in my personal space however, the realm of the public is extremely time-bound. I perceive forbidden hours and spaces as restrictions that I then try to push against in an attempt to inhabit all that I can from that which surrounds me.r5wazsw
What does "Movement" mean to you and what trajectory has it embarked upon over the recent months?
Movement signifies aliveness. For me, apart from its physical meaning, movement is emotional, social, and political. In this way, it is central to change.
The last few months have undeniably upturned all our familiar definitions of moving and movement. We all got 'locked down'. We could go nowhere - in the world, in the country, not even in our neighbourhood. This was not the same for everyone though. On one hand, we witnessed a painful forced movement brought upon by the lockdown that made workers walk endlessly to reach home and on the other, we saw many of the students and activists spearheading the protests against the CAA, stripped of their movement by the State through imprisonment. We are witnessing a widespread and unprecedented muzzling of dissenting voices.
And so, one has had to revisit the question - what does movement mean? Who stays versus who moves? Who can move versus who is not allowed to? Now when I think of moving, of space and time, I ask myself, “what kind of lines shall we be looking to trace on the city and roads of this country? Is it possible to find freedom in such times?”
What gets you moving inside-out outside-in?
To be able to move from inside to out and outside to in, for me, I need to first understand what is on the inside. This I think is a mystery to most of us. Its awareness requires emotional and physical intelligence. I have been working towards this awareness with the help of therapy, through yoga practice, things I read, conversations I have with friends and walks I take. I still have a long way to go but this search comprises a huge part of my life. I believe that the better we know ourselves, the easier it is for us to go from the inside to the outside, and from the outside to the in, without causing a storm each time we do it, and not to say, without creating movement.
5) What has been your most challenging point of adaptation in your life? Did it empower you if yes, how?
The most challenging part for me, during the time I spent quarantining and throughout the months of night curfew and COVID-19 restrictions, was the feeling of my independence and my freedom being snatched away. As women, especially as a single woman, being able to move, go where we want, as we want, when we want, is a struggle and a luxury we get to after unending negotiations and fights with our families, cities, and ourselves. All of this got upturned overnight. All the courage that we had accumulated over the years to face the night, the street, ourselves, has seemed to diminish. It feels like having to start all over again.
All my work is around people coming together, doing things together, sitting together, breathing the same air, having collective experiences - it might be theatre, or the midnight walking, the sex chat rooms. Everything was based on bodies coming together. But the panacea for the pandemic is isolation. A strange time where we deal with global illness by avoiding each other rather than being with each other. So, all my work needs to now look for new ways of creating togetherness, solidarity, conversation.
Perhaps this is required because the world around us has moved and it isn't what it used to be.
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Tell us about yourself.
I live in Bombay and am a celebrity hairstylist, occasional dog sitter for my friends and now a foster pig mom!
How do you inhabit the spaces and time that surround you in daily life?
At present, a significant portion of my day is occupied with interacting with a lot of animals. I have two cats and a friend and I have also rescued a mama pig and her litter. For the past 3 months, we have been feeding them every day and now I am fostering a 2-week-old piglet! I never thought I’d be living this “city-farm” life. However, spending time with all of them has been extremely fulfilling. My bedroom balcony, where I spend most of my morning, is my favourite place to be. I like easing into the day with a cup of coffee there, breathing, soaking up some sun, and observing the birds and trees outside. I do incorporate some sort of exercise on a daily basis, be it yoga or going on a bike ride. I use this time to connect with myself. I also enjoy being social and hang out with my friends often.
What does "Movement" mean to you and what trajectory has it embarked upon over the recent months?
For me, movement is freedom; listening and allowing your body, mind, and soul to experience this life. These past few months have been extremely eye opening with regards to both, individual and community. The initial period of the lockdown was all about lockdown clearing out your spaces, honing cooking skills, and endlessly washing dishes was colouring, cycling, making my favourite foods like sushi, and teaching myself how to play a few songs on my ukulele. On my birthday, which was during this period, my girlfriend gifted me a drill machine because I’ve always been interested in woodwork. So, then I got myself a whole bunch of tools. My first project was to build a house for the dog living outside my building. I wanted to ensure that she was sheltered from the rain. It ended up being very amateur but was extremely exciting. Work started slowly; I I did a couple of shoots.
What gets you moving inside-out outside-in?
The ocean
What has been your most challenging point of adaptation in your life? Did it empower you if yes, how?
I adapt very easily to change. Even when things have seemed challenging, it hasn’t been difficult. I think when you live from your heart and are true to yourself, life just happens.
Tell us about yourself.
Growing up my brother and I heard myriad stories about our mother, Dr. Geeta Balakrishnan's work, who is a retired Professor from the College of Social work, Nirmala Niketan. These stories were either about tsunami relief work or the Plague or the Bombay riots. Her everyday stories were stories from communities and those concerned with fighting for the rights. I remember this one time she was late from work and when she came home, she told us how their entire bunch was arrested and they had spent the day in the Police station playing Antakshari.
I strongly feel some of the bits and pieces of the work I do today is somewhere because I grew up listening to these fantastic tales. I am an advertising filmmaker and co-run a company called Footloose Films (www.footloosefilms.in). Although for the most part, we sell shampoos and biscuits, I continue to learn the craft of filmmaking and of running a business every single day. Fortunately, we do often get the opportunity to voice poignant and beautiful stories for our clients. This definitely balances everything out. Currently, I am engaged in working on a feature-length documentary that should be complete early next year.
How do you inhabit the spaces and time that surround you in daily life?
The lockdown has been strange for some and tough for many but I’ve had the most interesting few months. I’ve grown leaps and bounds. After spending the first few weeks at home, I was definitely itching to go out and do something. Makers Asylum was one of the first to make various prototypes of the face shields and had set a goal of making 1 million of them. I was lucky to have volunteered alongside them for a few weeks - a very fun and inspiring bunch! Right after, I did have to self-quarantine for 2 weeks before I could see my folks as I hadn’t for a long time. It was then that I started planning some fund-raising events for Nabhangan Foundation which is run by a dear friend, Rajshri Deshpande. We did some very fun events - music, a tête-à-tête with ad gurus Balki and Prasoon Pandey, a writing workshop for children, baking, and so on. With the help of these, we successfully raised a fair bit of money thanks to the many kind friends and family who participated.
Another exciting thing was the Facebook group PadSquad, which was formed during the lockdown, mostly by strangers. The idea was very simple - we put out a post on social media asking people to ‘donate pads’ they could buy via amazon etc. Then we tagged many of our friends and family and shared the address of the location where the pads were to be shipped, over a message. What started as one basti in Mumbai has grown to a presence in 23 cities with more than 50 pad Squadders. Just keeping track of all that is going is a task for us co-founders. However, every single update or photograph of distribution, be it from Ranchi to Beawar to Assam to Bangalore, really warms our hearts.
I also got to shoot for an organization that I have meaning to work with for years- Doctors without Borders. Currently, I am involved with a project called Shramik Samman launched on the 15th of August 2020, with the aim of working towards 74 livelihood projects for migrant workers who have had to return to their homes across the country to mark 74 years of Independence.
What does "Movement" mean to you and what trajectory has it embarked upon over the recent months?
I have a lot of respect for people who adopt a certain project, job, or cause, and go all out. I’m a bit of a scatterbrain and like to dip my toes into different waters. Not sure if that’s good or bad but it’s my kind of movement. Probably because it helps me explore and evolve through learning new things, meeting varied people, taking on some fresh challenging tasks.
What gets you moving inside-out & outside-in?
I’ve caught myself using the term “good vibes” very often these days. Isn’t that a big part of everything we do and everyone we meet? We need to be each other’s catalysts for happy energy in everything we do.
What has been your most challenging point of adaptation in your life? Did it empower you? If yes, how?
For me, it was starting my company, Footloose Films. I used to be a freelancer prior to that and when we started the company, as much as I loved being an ‘entrepreneur’, I did struggle with not having the freedom of a freelancer. However, in the past 3 years at the company have grounded me in many ways. Well, even the last few months have because I do feel like I have changed and grown drastically. I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by people who are doing such selfless work. It isn't only about going out and working. There are many who are in their homes but get so much done, connect so many dots, help in so many ways. The last few months have taught me that intent is all it takes, everything else just happens.
The story of Stretchery began in Delhi in the summer of 2013 when two friends found themselves repeatedly complaining of a looming gap in their wardrobes – missing the right workout wear for their gym and yoga – echoed in the Indian apparel market at large!
]]>This gap, for them, translated into an idea; rather a challenge and an opportunity to create what they thought and continue to believe will make a great story one day!
No doubt, starting a business was a massive undertaking! ‘Do we have the stomach for it? Will our friendship stand the test of a steep entrepreneurial journey?’ The doubts were many; and, yet, the possibilities exciting. They took a leap and immersed themselves into defining what they wanted to create.
The decision was made.
And a concept fleshed out. ‘We wanted to launch an organic, fitness wear brand that went beyond workout, yoga, and wellness, to represent an idea and a lifestyle… A line of apparel where fashion met fitness and style met conscience, sensitizing people towards the right clothing and its environmental impact.’
Flexing their inexperienced muscles – sustainability and fashion as alien to them as was starting a venture – they plunged into countless hours of brainstorming over coffee sessions, sleepovers, research trips, and sampling.
(The team that makes our ideas come to life.)
With any financial breakthrough looking some light-years away, their time apart was spent working on keeping their finances steady. Jeenie, a commerce graduate, continued her work of exporting costumes to Indian dance schools overseas; while Nirali, a jewelry design graduate from NIFT Gandhi Nagar, continued to consult in the luxury retail space.
‘You get the drive to do a lot of things when you do what you love. We understood and experienced it right then’
Every single aspect of the project was unfamiliar, and a mammoth mountain to scale – right from defining the brand language, to getting legal formalities in place, to understanding manufacturing limitations, and setting up a supply chain.
Coming up with the right name for the brand was no easy task either. Not only did it have to be representative of the ideology the young entrepreneurs had in mind, but they ‘also wanted it to be abstract and new; and for it to sound like a verb.’ They wanted the name as an idea to represent a movement; that, while being specific to fitness and healthy life, caters to a larger scope of thoughts, ideas, and lifestyle. And thus pinned down on ‘Stretchery’.
(Working on the details be it the name or designs of a new collection)
Each time a box was ticked, it brought them one step closer to the goal. Yet, with each accomplishment, the setbacks were numerous and draining – from constant struggle for funds to time and workforce management of the manufacturing unit in Kolkata… and the list went on.
At last, just when it seemed like they were ready to launch, a most unexpected turn of events sent them hurtling backward. One of the co-founders, Jeenie was to shift base permanently to California with the love of her life.
It put everything on standstill for one week.
The roadmap to success just got tougher. ‘ But It was then that we let our gut decide.’ The duo stepped up and launched Stretchery, one of India’s first sustainable fitness wear brand, on 1st August 2014. ‘With beating hearts, sitting across two continents, we saw it come alive.’
Stretchery is a state of being active in mind and body. Every piece of it is thoughtfully-designed, and fairly-produced, using SUSTAINABLE and NATURAL fabrics. It defines freedom in every thread; and is for anyone who is or aspires to be active.
(When we were all set to launch our first Organic Cotton fitness wear collection)
What is it like working seas apart and on two completely opposite time zones? ‘We had to work harder, understand each other better and be patient.’ With daily Skype sessions, emails flooding with ideas, updates, and production challenges to resolve, they kept going, to finally launch their website in January 2015.
Nearly 18 months since the idea was conceived. Yet, they realized, this was just the beginning!
Did they have doubts? Yes!
Did they fear the future? Yes!
Did they give up? NO!
Starting with t-shirts and tanks to launching a range of bottoms, to launching the website for Stretchery in the International market (USA) in 2016, they nurtured it with all they had and saw it grow.
(Our team in USA helping with getting the right mood and shots)
Gradually, from 2015, Stretchery started getting noticed. Love flew in from customers, family, and friends. Recognition from the industry and mentions in published articles, came organically. Customer testimonials were real and heartfelt. ‘These are definitely the most cherished parts of our journey.’
‘It has been a whole lot of emotions, hard work and challenges; but what is the point if one cannot really enjoy the journey? So we did whenever we could. Small wins, recognitions, and compliments made our day.’
The obstacles, of course, never stop. The two co-founders take each day as a new day – adapting themselves to and growing with the lessons learnt in the last five years. ‘We are not five years old, but five years young – with passion now complemented with wisdom.’
‘We are grateful to every single person who’s been part of this journey with us – our amazing team at the manufacturing unit, friends, family, our models, brand ambassadors and the supportive fitness community. Thank you for helping our vision come to life.’
‘Today, once again, sitting across two continents in front of our screens we raise a toast to this journey.’
With passion and determination, it is not impossible to make a shared dream come true. What you need to be really ready to do, is to STRETCH!!
Stretchery is open 24x7.
Contributed by Nidhi Dhingra, a travel researcher and writer, plus the Communications Lead for INK talks. She likes littering Instagram with her creative projects, posting as @travel.illustrator.
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When we think about the color green, we tend to think about nature. And, if you think about healthy and happiness you should think about nature.
There are many ways to bring nature into your life... outside and inside. Here are some of them.
FOOD
There is no natural green food that is not very healthy, full of vitamins and
proteins.
Broccoli is known to be a tasty vegetable which is rich in dozens of nutrients. It is loaded with enzymes, protein, and fiber and is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and soups. The antioxidant vitamin C, when eaten in its natural form, can help to fight skin damage caused by the sun, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. Broccoli also decreases the risk of diabetes and obesity.
Asparagus is a spring vegetable that is packed with nutrition and is an incredible source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, K, and iron. It's one of the top-ranked vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. It pairs nicely with lots of other spring vegetables and flavors.
Avocado is an extremely rich source of omega-3 fats, protein, vitamin E and antioxidants that protect the skin, heart, and blood. Avocado has enormous anti-inflammatory effects on the body, supports cardiovascular health, promotes blood sugar regulation and has anti-cancer benefits. Goes great with anything from smoothies to desserts, sandwiches, salads, and dips.
Kiwi is great for cleansing and balancing blood sugar levels and an excellent source of vitamin C. It also provides a good amount of fiber which may provide help with cardiovascular health, colon health and may help protect against respiratory symptoms such as wheezing from asthma. It is also beneficial to eyes and general health.
Green olives provide potent anti-oxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits to the body. The high monounsaturated fat content of olives has been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The monounsaturated fat found in olives can help to decrease blood pressure.
Spinach is among the world’s healthiest vegetables and comes out on top of in ranking for nutrient richness. Rich in vitamins and minerals with powerful antioxidant protection, spinach also helps to protect the body against inflammatory concerns, oxidative stress-related concerns, cardiovascular concerns, bone concerns, and cancers at the same time.
Zucchini contains zero fat, and is high in water and fiber. It also contains significant amounts of vitamins B6, riboflavin, folate, C, and K, and minerals, like potassium and manganese. Because of this, it can help to boost energy production in the body. These vitamins also aid in various brain functions including cognition.
Consuming green tea reduces the risk of several cancers, including, skin, breast, lung, colon, esophageal, and bladder cancers. An additional benefit of regular green tea consumption includes a reduced risk for heart disease.
MASKS
Green fruits and vegetables are not only good to eat, but they also can be used for making a good face mask. Here are some fast recipes for quality face masks.
Avocado - Mix together one avocado, one egg white, two tablespoons of oatmeal, and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply to face, leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Do this twice a week.
Cucumber - Beat one egg white until you get stiff peaks, and mix it with two tablespoons of freshly grated cucumber. Apply the mask on clean skin and cover it with damp cheesecloth so it will not dry too fast. Leave for 20 minutes and rinse with cold water.
Zucchini - Take one small raw zucchini and with a potato peeler slice it into long thin strips and place them on your clean face and neck. After 20 minutes, remove the strips and wash your face with milk and water.
PLANTS
Green is not only for foods, green in living things. So, bring some life into your room. Indoor plants can help with adding much-needed color pops, acoustics, mental and physical health and much more.
The best houseplants for living room are Philodendron and English Ivy which are especially good for absorbing mold in the air. A dining room is a perfect place for Marble queen and Golden pothos because they have air-purifying qualities. The bedroom is a great area for plants such as Aloe vera and Peace Lily that is great for absorbing compounds in the air. Aloe vera absorbs airborne compounds from paint or cleaning agents, and you can also have it handy for treating your sunburn. If we have plants around us, it makes the feeling that we are closer to nature.
CLOTHES
If you like nature and healthy living, then clothes from natural materials are a must. Make sure the cotton is organic, that is, made from untreated GMO-free seeds. Also, avoid to wear synthetic materials but also, avoid synthetics in the house. For example, don't use synthetic carpets and curtains.
REDUCING PLASTIC USAGE
We also have more chance to live healthy if we avoid usage of plastic. Plastic is all around us but we should try to replace it with a metal or glass alternative. The chemicals in plastic and plastic particles may cause cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, arthritis, impotency and even harm babies in the womb. A kitchen is a place where we most often use plastic items. Just by opening the fridge or the kitchen cabinet you will see your food wrapped in all sorts of plastic. All these plastic bags can be easily replaced with paper ones.
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
]]>How many times couldn't you sleep at night in the last month? When you are under stress it is very hard to sleep. A good night's sleep is incredibly important for your health, immune system and your mood. In fact, it’s just as important as eating healthy and exercising. Here are some tips on how to get a better nights sleep.
Avoid caffeine
Did you know that caffeine can stay elevated in your blood for 6 – 8 hours? Because of that, drinking large amounts of coffee after 3 – 4 pm is not recommended. After this time you need to cut out caffeine or reduce it to a bare minimum. Caffeine may not only cause difficulty initiating sleep, but may also cause frequent awakenings. If you are too sensitive to caffeine, even a small amount of coffee early in the day can affect your sleep. Instead, drink herbal teas or decaffeinated coffee.
Reduce Irregular or Long Daytime Naps
While short power naps for 30 minutes or less are beneficial, long or irregular napping during the day can negatively affect your sleep quality. Sleeping in the daytime can confuse your internal clock, so you may struggle to sleep at night. Also, if you have trouble falling asleep, napping can make things worse. If you need to nap, limit naps to 15 to 20 minutes in the early afternoon and avoid doing so late in the day.
Supplements
Several supplements can cause relaxation and they can be useful when combined with other natural sleeping strategies.
Don't eat or drink late in the evening
While we don't want to go to bed hungry, avoid heavy or large meals within a couple of hours of bedtime. Late-night eating may negatively impact sleep quality. Try to make dinner time earlier in the evening, and try to avoid heavy foods within two hours of bed. Spicy or acidic foods can cause stomach trouble but high-carb meal eaten four hours before bed helped people fall asleep faster. Also, nicotine and alcohol deserve caution because of their stimulating effects that may take hours to disappear Moreover, avoid drinking too many liquids in the evening. Drinking lots of fluids may result in frequent waking up and going to the toilette.
Take a Relaxing Bath or Shower
A relaxing bath or shower is another good way to sleep better. It can improve overall sleep quality and hot bath 90 minutes before bed improves sleep quality and helps you get more deep sleep. Taking salts bath in the evening should be one of the more effective parts of good sleep hygiene routine.
Don't exercise before bed
Exercise is one of the best ways to improve your sleep and reduce symptoms of insomnia. Even light exercise is better than no activity. But if daily exercise is key for a good night's sleep, performing it too late in the day may cause sleep problems. Try to finish exercising at least three hours before you plan to retire for the night.
Going to sleep and getting up at the same time every day
Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Try to limit the difference in your sleep schedule on weeknights and weekends. You should get up at the same time every day in order to train your body to wake at a consistent time. This helps set your body’s internal clock and optimize the quality of your sleep. If you’re getting enough sleep, you should wake up without an alarm but if you need an alarm clock, maybe you should go to bed earlier. The recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult is at least seven hours. If you don't fall asleep within about 20 minutes, leave your bedroom and do something relaxing like reading or listening to music and go back to bed when you're tired.
No late-night television or the Internet.
Many TV programs are stimulating rather than relaxing. Try listening to music or audio books instead. A problem with bedtime TV watching is simply the temptation to stay up late to find out what happens next. Activities that are highly interactive like answering emails, texting, posting on Facebook or Instagram prevent your brain from shutting down and can promote insomnia.
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
]]>Stress can cause mental, emotional and physical issues. It can suppress your immune system and cause many health problems. Here are some tips on how you can be happier and feel healthier.
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Stress is actually a normal part of life but if you don't get a handle on your stress levels, it can seriously inhibit your ability to do your job, spend time with your family or be healthy. It is very important to be self-reflect and be aware of any current or potential stress. However, just knowing that stress is a problem, doesn't always fix it! You sometimes need to work very hard to reduce your stress level and feel better. Stress can cause mental, emotional and physical issues. It can suppress your immune system and cause many health problems. Here are some tips on how you can be happier and feel healthier.
MORE YOGA, LESS DRAMA – As we all know, modern life can be stressful. Yoga has been shown to be a very effective stress reducer. The practice of yoga involves stretching body, forming different poses and keeping breathing slow so the body becomes relaxed and energized. Also, in yoga, you may incorporate meditation or relaxation. Meditation can be a great way to relax, especially if you are under a lot of stress. It takes only 15 to 30 minutes a day, which is very affordable. Just find a comfortable place, close your eyes and give yourself some silent. Mindfulness meditation involves sitting comfortably, focusing on your breathing, and bringing your mind’s attention to the present. The key is staying focused and not letting any distractions enter your mind.
MUSIC IS YOUR THERAPY – Listening to music can have an extremely calming effect on your mind and body. It can be very relaxing and induce a harmonious state of mind. Music therapy is very helpful in decreasing anxiety associated with medical procedures. Music reduces stress and anxiety significantly reduces emotional distress. You can use music in your daily life and achieve many stress relief benefits.
GOOD FRIENDS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH - Social health is an important aspect of wellness and your physical health. If you've had a stressful day, you will get rid of the tension faster by meeting up with friends and talking about your problems. Having a supportive social network has been associated with lower levels of stress and greater levels of happiness. Moreover, having friends will keep you healthier. There is some evidence to suggest that people with close friends have a greater ability to fight disease. So get together with some friends so you can celebrate the good times and get support during the bad.
EAT BETTER, FEEL BETTER – If you want to use diet to reduce stress, you need to stay away from refined sugar and caffeine (coffee, tea, and chocolate). Some coffee during the day is a good idea, but too much caffeine will make you nervous and anxious. Junk food can make us depressed, too. When we are going through periods of stress, we need to utilize more nutrients, especially the B vitamins because the B vitamins affect our nervous systems. Moreover, foods including blueberries, salmon, and almonds are especially effective for stress-reduction. If you’re stressed out, reflecting on what you’re eating is a great thing to do. Healthy foods can improve your mood and give you long-lasting energy to endure hard times.
IT' S TIME FOR BATH AND CANDLES (JASMIN, ORANGE, LAVENDER, VALERIAN) - Taking a long and warm bath can be calming for the mind. Fill your bathtub, add your favorite bath salts, soaps and decorate it with candles. Also, the smells of essential oils can affect the brain and causes feelings of relaxation, calmness, and love. The best oils for stress relief are lavender, cypress, and rosemary. Lavender oil can be found in bath salts and massage oil. Aromatherapy can reduce the perception of stress and aromatherapy massage can have some beneficial effects on anxiety and depression. Candles are great for aromatherapy and lighting a candle is probably one of the simplest ways to create a nice feel. Aromatherapy can boost the relaxation benefits of meditation.
SWEAT OFF THE STRESS - Exercise helps to reduce stress and only you only need 20 minutes a day to experience benefits. No matter what your fitness level may be, the key is to move your body every day. You need to identify the type of exercise that you most enjoy. Exercise also prevents obesity among other health problems. It is one of the best ways to reduce stress. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that help you get your mind off your problems and clears your head.
PRIORITIZE SLEEP AND IMPROVE IT - Sleep is the most important natural stress reducer. Too little sleep leaves you irritable and on edge. So try to find the right balance that gives you the feeling you are ready for the day. Get your eight hours in, no matter what, or, take a nap during the day if you missed some sleep the previous night. Promote better sleep by establishing bedtime rituals. Also, some foods can also promote sleep, such as bananas and peanuts but avoid having a large meal close to bedtime.
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
]]>From healthy food habits to applying face masks, here are few tips on how to naturally obtaining healthy glowing skin.
]]>From healthy food habits to applying face masks, here are few tips on how to naturally obtaining healthy glowing skin.
If you want healthy, glowing skin, there are a multitude of natural products that you can use to improve the health of your skin. You probably already have many of them in your kitchen.
Internal Care
Everything you put into your body affects your skin. So if you want to have natural, clean, and illuminating skin, you must drink a lot of water and eat clean. Various nutrients in fruits and vegetables will help clear your skin. Olive oil has great, healthy vegetable fats that you can use it in your everyday life, milk is another choice to refuel your body and keep it hydrated throughout the day, carrots offer several health benefits and are particularly beneficial for organs like the eyes, skin, digestive system and teeth, cucumber is full of antioxidant nutrients as well as beta-carotene, vitamin C and manganese…
External Care
Moisturizing your skin is an important part of skin care ritual. Below are 10 fabulous home remedies for healthy and glowing skin:
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great moisturizer and treats several skin issues including dark spots, scars, fine lines around eyes, and acne. If you use coconut oil every day, it can make your skin hydrated and glowing. Coconut oil can prevent premature aging as it contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E.
Ingredient: Coconut Oil
Lightly warm up the oil and apply on the face and neck. Massage for a few minutes in gentle circular motions. Leave the oil on overnight. Use coconut oil every night before going to bed.
Also, you can add some sugar to the oil and use it as a scrub once or twice a week.
2. Lemon
Lemons are a rich source of Vitamin C and contain a natural bleaching agent, so it will lighten the skin. The simplest way to use the power of lemons on your skin is to rub the inside of a lemon peel over your face and neck. If you crave for a fair skin tone devoid of blemishes but have a tanned skin, try lemon juice. Apply the lemon juice on dark areas. Do not expose yourself to sunlight after applying lemon as it is photosensitive.
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons lemon juice and 2 teaspoons sugar
Mix the ingredients and apply the mixture to your face. Scrub in a circular motion and leave it on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water to reveal glowing skin. Repeat this twice a week.
3. Cucumber
Cucumber is very good for skin whether you consume it or apply it over your face. It gives a very soothing effect during the summer season once applied over the skin.
Ingredients: 1 small cucumber and 2-3 tablespoons yogurt
Grate the cucumber and add the yogurt to it. Beat it properly. Apply it on your face and neck. Leave it on for five minutes until it dries and wash it off with cold water.
Repeat this once, every three to four days.
4. Honey
The sugars in the honey act as natural humectants and emollients that increase the water content and reduce dryness in the skin even after they have been washed off.
Ingredient: Honey
Apply honey evenly on clean and damp skin. Massage it for a few minutes and leave it on for another five minutes. Wash the honey off with lukewarm water.
Apply honey every alternate day.
Ingredients: Honey and rose water
Mix honey with a few drops of rose water and apply it all over. Honey contains enzymes that help in tissue regeneration. It is rich in antioxidants and known to be the best naturally occurring moisturizer. Honey is a perfect moisturizer for your skin upkeep.
Ingredients: Honey and cucumber juice
If you have overly dry skin, you should mix honey with cucumber juice before applying it.
5. Olive Oil
Olive oil is real liquid gold and it is incredibly beneficial for your health. You can use it as a substitute for shaving cream, as hair conditioner, to lessen stretch marks or to smooth wrinkles. Here is the way how to use it to massage your face and neck before the sleep.
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil, a small, soft towel, and warm water
Take a few drops of oil on your fingertips, and apply it all over the face and neck. Massage in upward circles for two to three minutes, especially on your cheeks, nose, and forehead. Dip the towel in the warm water, remove the excess water, and place this on the face for 30 to 40 seconds. Dip the towel again in the warm water and gently wipe away the oil with it. Pat your skin dry with a paper towel if required. Do this every night before going to bed.
6. Ice and water
Ice cubes are also well known for being a fantastic home remedy for glowing skin. For a quick and easy way to get a rosy glow, you can’t beat ice cubes. Just rub an ice cube over your face and it will increase the circulation of blood to your skin and leave you with a lovely rosy complexion. That increase in circulation that ice cubes provide will also help promote the growth of new skin cells, so it will improve your complexion in the long term as well.
Water is maybe the most important ingredient for your glowing skin. Without enough water, it becomes dull, dry, and might even start to tear. It is very important that you drink 10-12 glasses of water daily as it helps to flush the toxins out of your system. The skin needs to receive enough water to be hydrated, soft, and supple.
7. Orange Juice
Oranges work like magic on your skin and transform the way it looks. The citric acid in oranges dries pimples and fights acne. Oranges are also natural bleaching agents, moisturizing and anti-aging. They remove tan and even out your skin tone.
Ingredients: 3-4 oranges, salt to taste and black pepper powder to taste
Juice the oranges and add salt and black pepper to taste before drinking it. Drink a glass of orange juice every day.
Ingredient: 1 orange
Take an orange and squeeze out its juice. Now, apply this to your face regularly. For best results, apply this juice for a month.
8. Milk
Milk is one of the best skin care ingredients for any type of skin and raw milk works as an exceptional skin-toner for all the skin types. Cleopatra, the queen of ancient Egypt, used to take milk baths to enjoy smooth and flawless skin. Raw milk is also an ultimate anti-tan agent. The lactic acid in milk acts as a natural exfoliating agent and helping remove dead skin cells. It makes the facial skin more elastic than before.
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons milk, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 teaspoon besan (gram flour)
Mix all the ingredients to form a homogenous paste. Apply all over the face and leave it on for 20 minutes. Allow the pack to dry. Rinse off with warm water. Apply this twice a week.
9. Yogurt
Another amazing home remedy for glowing skin is a yogurt face mask. Yogurt is well known for its ability to refresh the skin and make it silky and smooth.
Ingredients: Yoghurt, banana, and honey
Make a homemade face mask by mixing a tablespoon of unflavoured yogurt with a mashed banana and a teaspoon of honey. Apply that to your face for fifteen minutes and it will nourish your skin and give you a healthy looking, brighter, complexion.
10. Banana
Banana is excellent for your skin. With loads of vitamins and enzymes that boost the overall health of your skin, it would be no exaggeration to term banana as Nature’s Botox. Banana is loaded with vital vitamins and nutrients which make this banana face masks extraordinary fix for most of your beauty problems. Banana can help in resolving various skin problems, such as combating wrinkles, removing pimples and skin brightening.
Ingredients: a ripe banana, 2 teaspoons milk and an ice cube
Mash the banana in the milk and apply it on the face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse with water. Rub an ice cube all over the area for a few seconds. Apply banana on your face once or twice a week.
Ingredients: banana and 3 teaspoons milk
If you have scars or skin blemishes or just want a fair and young looking skin, you should try a banana face pack. Mix banana with milk and honey before applying it all over.
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
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Here are 10 rules on how to say yes to joy and how to feel the joy of saying yes!
Be grateful
Make a list of things in your life for which you are grateful for. Be grateful to have good friends that love you and care for you, for a place you can call home, for the sun that comes up every day… be grateful for being who you are and touching the world with your presence! The researches have shown that having gratitude reduces many toxic emotions, such as envy and frustration and reduces depression. Another strategy is to have grateful people around you. Find people who believe in you and your dreams and surround yourself with positive influences. Anyone who makes you feel bad about yourself does not have a place in your life. If you are with people who are positive about their lives, they will be able to influence you to feel the same.
Don’t forget to smile
This is another way for your body to “trick” your mind into being more positive. The simple act of smiling can instantly change the way you feel and you will be amazed at how your mind reacts. Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful. As they say, if you see a friend without a smile, give him one of yours. Try smiling at a stranger on the street and you will see he will smile back. Soon you will realize that your smile will give you a positive countenance that will make people feel comfortable around you and that an honest smile is the universal language of kindness.
Positivity is a choice
Integrate positive activities into your life little by little and you will change your mindset. There are so many things we can all do to see the world in a positive light. The mind and the body have a deep-seated connection. If you are striving to move your mind into a more positive perspective, try moving your body there first. Carrying yourself with “positive posture” will encourage your mind to feel more positive as well. Remember you always have a choice whether you want to choose positivity or negativity. Feel powerful. Feel positive. Positive thoughts and emotions counter the negative effects of stress. You cannot be thankful and stressed at the same time.
Kindness matters
Stepping outside of your daily routine to help someone else can provide an amazing perspective and fill you with positivity. Try to do one nice thing for someone else each day. Call a family member just to say hi, compliment a stranger, say “thank you” to someone who made a difference … People do not hear how special they are often enough. This act of kindness exercise is a simple way to appreciate others in a lasting and touching way. And what is the most important, be kind to yourself!
Music therapy
Music is amazingly powerful. Whenever you are feeling anxious or sad some nice music does wonders and can be therapeutic. Science has shown that music actually has a physical effect on our bodies. While you listen to music, it has a positive effect on the autonomic nervous system, which controls your blood pressure and heartbeat. Music can lower your levels of stress-related hormones like cortisol and ease pain. Listening to music before an operation can even improve post-surgery outcomes. Make yourself a go-to playlist and put your favorite songs on it to make you happy and you will likely stay positive.
Sharing is caring
If we share our difficulties, we can receive encouragement from others that will help us re-focus on our strength and courage. From calling a friend to writing a diary, share with others and ask them to share with you. Learning that it is okay to talk about our problems can feel a bit unpleasant and sometimes, with emotional problems, you may be embarrassed to share what is really going on for you. That is why it is so important to talk with someone who is encouraging and nonjudgmental. Also, telling someone a happy memory or how you got through a tough time always helps to feel better and more positive.
Good morning!
What you do and how you feel first thing in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. You have a choice every morning when you wake up. You can embrace the day and start it off with something positive, like a quick workout or a short yoga session. While you are still in bed stretch your limbs out as much as you can. This triggers the release of dopamine, a hormone that boosts your mood, energy, and self-esteem. Step into a cold shower because cold water has a great ability to help you snap out of your laziness. Make a strong and healthy breakfast to kick-start your metabolism and fuel your body to face the day ahead.
Exercise regularly
One of the keys to staying positive in life is fitness. Regular exercise boosts your mood, releases endorphins that make you feel better and help improve your mental and physical state. There are a lot of benefits such as relieving stress, helping improve memory, encouraging better sleep, boosting the release of feel-good endorphins. Set realistic goals, be consistent with your exercise and make sure to stick with it. Building a good and healthy habit can even go a long way toward helping you stay physically and mentally fit.
This step is hard to take at first but teaching yourself that positivity is a choice and it is one of the greatest things you will ever do for yourself. Next time when you find yourself in a bad situation, you will know that it is up to you to find the good, to be positive regardless of what is happening around you. Realize that everything happens how it happens, and it is up to you to choose how you want to feel about it. Being positive is not about being false. It is about being real, but ending with a good message. You are in control of your attitude, and no one can take that away from you.
In every person, in every situation, there is something good. Most of the time it is not obvious so we have to look. When you are faced with a difficult or challenging situation, you should think, “What is good about this?” No matter how terrible the situation might seem, you always can find something good if you take the time to think about it. Everything is a learning experience and you can learn from bad experiences too. If you really take the time to look, you will usually find something good, something genuinely positive, about every person or situation. Becoming a positive person does not mean you can never have any negative emotion, it is an overall attitude that matters. To become a positive person you must have a strong desire to be positive and you have to be convinced that becoming a positive person will increase the quality of life. Remember “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.” (Anais Nin)
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
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Life, they say is a balancing act.
How often have you felt like you were on a bamboo pole, a balancing artist walking across a string (rope/tightrope), trying to stay centered in a constantly changing world? Taking care of your tremulous self, while trying to keep track of all the roles you play...seeking adventure and yearning for peace in equal measure while seizing moments of harmony wherever you find them. Phew!
Sounds familiar?
To move from one polarity to another is the nature of the mind. It is difficult for the mind to come to stay in the middle. To put it simply, just ‘being’ makes you lazy and just ‘doing’ makes you hyper and workaholic.
Take, for example, a clock's pendulum, the pendulum goes to the right, then moves to the left, then again to the right, and again to the left; the clock's working depends on this intrinsic movement.
If the pendulum stays in the middle, well, the clock would stop. The more it moves to one side, the more energy it gathers to move to the other and vice versa.
Something many of us will be able to connect with while describing our lives and choices.
When you are standing in the middle you are not gathering any momentum. But surprisingly, this is the beauty of it too, someone who is not gathering any momentum to move anywhere is also a person at ease, at home with themselves.
It is this ever elusive, intriguing and intangible concept of balance that attracts us. Various philosophies both scientific and spiritual have defined it in their own ways. Just as how new age science finds a unique correlation between our three brains - you heard it right - head, heart, and gut. It is in living through the integration of the three that we can experience a state of balance.
Whether practiced through ancient philosophies like Yoga and meditation, or contemporary dance and cross-training, wellness through consistent physical activities does wonders for our energy and helps center our being.
We take this thread of our constant endeavor for balance as an inspiration for our next collection - Soul system - Relevant and pertinent to our times - the new range draws inspiration from an organic synthesis of the mind, body, and soul. It blends basic shapes, schematic details, solid patterns and subtle earthy hues. With minimalism as its mainstay, every shape, color, and print tells a story. We feel all of our reality can be represented by simple geometric forms.
Something so pure about basic forms of geometry, don't you reckon?
So, Why Shapes?
In visual art, a shape can be defined as simple or complex, geometric yet natural, directional or even abstract. We have used the Primary shapes in the simplistic forms to associate them with various emotions and functions. We draw our inspiration from the exchange of mind, body & soul.
Soul system - Our new collection with its unique interplay of shapes and forms will constantly remind you of the congruity and solace that we are all trying to achieve, together and alone. To find your inner zen, and yet to accelerate when the mind is ready. It will remind you that life is about simplicity & minimalism.
Square represents stability and sustainability through nurturing our bodies that are required for a healthy life and creating a perfect balance. Triangle as a form suggests action and flow of energy towards a direction, towards something that is above the tangibles. Seeking the beauty in everyday life by being mindful of what we do thus leading to a happy self. Circles suggest infinity, completion, and wholeness like that of gratitude. An emotion that could enliven our souls by releasing the negativity.
Soft cotton fabrics, subtle subliminal colors, some structured and some flowy in fit - clothes that define our brand perfectly and that let ‘you’ be.
An interesting confluence of forms, in blocks & in lines, stripes and symmetry, there are colors like grey, purple, red, orange and equal measure of black and white to bring forth the design elements. Design by itself has been kept simple, and comfort for all body types, without a doubt. An array of Tanks tops, basic & stretchable pants form this collection dedicated to wellness.
Contributed by Immaterial https://www.immaterial.me/
We all have our bad days when we feel lost and think we are not good enough. Sometimes, these days can turn into a bad patch, and it is very difficult to go “back on the track” and believe that we deserve the best.
It is important to remember that a perfect person does not exist but we are all perfect in our own way.
You are special because someone loves you because of your curly hair, a big smile or your energy. Or maybe because of your imperfections. Even if sometimes you think that you don’t deserve to be loved, it is only your perception. As Allan Lokot said once: “Don’t believe everything you think. Thoughts are just that - thoughts.”
Important thing is to know that we usually think we are not good enough because we compare ourselves to other people, no matter who they are. It is normal to compare but don’t forget that the people you compare yourself with compare themselves with other people, too. I believe we are all so different that we can’t compare. Maybe someone is more beautiful but maybe someone else is more charismatic. So, who wins? We are all beautiful in our imperfection. We are unique so we are not meant to have the same success or experience as anyone else.
Today there is a lot of pressure to be perfect, to be the best at work, to look like a model, to cook good, to be married before 30, to earn a lot of money… the list can be very long! Trying to achieve all that you forget yourself! You don’t have to be the best at everything. No one is! You need to find your own scale of the things that are important to you and try to fulfill your expectations.
Remember that your mistakes are just a lesson, an opportunity to learn something new and become a better person. With all your virtues and imperfections you are exactly who you are supposed to be!
We all have something that no one else has. I am sure there are a lot of things that you love about yourself so try not to forget them and repeat them in your mind as often as you can.
Make peace with yourself, and remember, you are good enough just as you are, one and only in the world!
]]>You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.
]]>‘Traveller, not a tourist’ is a badge we all like to carry and flaunt today. But what does it mean to be a traveler? It’s more than jet-setting to places anew and checking off our bucket-list. It’s more inclusive than just ‘you’. It’s interactive, experiential, sustainable and responsible. And this is exactly what eco-travel or responsible tourism is all about.
Eco-friendly travel, according to the International Ecotourism Society, is ‘responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being and involves interpretation and education’.
Even as this is the age of travel, it is also when there is a greater precision in data monitoring, with each day bringing in worrying reports on the changing environment – of the lakes in Pushkar and Bharatpur drying up, the ice melting faster than ever beyond the poles, of seasons changing, life cycles altering and more species being listed as endangered.
This gorgeous planet we love to explore and travel in is slowly dying in front of us, while leaders like he-who-must-not-be-named sit tight with eyes shut like the pigeon does on seeing a cat, signaling doomsday!
For most of us, it isn’t feasible to dedicate all our time and energies to saving the planet; unlike some incredible people across the world. Yet, what we surely can do is be conscious of the little bits in our power as we travel.
Imbibe the simple mantra: ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’. Research before you depart and have a broad idea of more than just a list of places-to-see. Once there, head to the neighborhood market, buy fresh fruits and try the region’s specialties. Not only is this a treat to the taste buds but also helps the local community.
Move focus away from the glitzy shops and malls; and get curious about the traditional forms of art the place might have – its crafts, music, fairs, and festivals. This invaluable interaction with the residents of a place often fetches treasures off-the-tourist-track. And along with the knowledge and experiences you gather, it makes you the guest locals like to remember!
On a leisure trip, most often than not, we pick places far-from-the-madding-crowd and decently equipped to enjoy the outdoors in (be it hills, beaches, countryside, small towns or even cities abroad). Ditch your four-wheel ride and find ways of commute that’ll go a long way in helping both you and the environment – be it walking, cycling, or using local transport.
You could go an extra mile and sign up for volunteering programs as you holiday. They are a-plenty, both in India and abroad. Find one that suits your interest – it could be teaching kids, engaging in craft promotion, looking after farm animals, or giving some hours to cultivation – and you’ll come back richer for it.
Even if none of the above suits your fancy, an easier way to travel consciously is to book yourself at an eco-friendly stay – where the atmosphere created is in harmony with nature, offering activities in sync with the local community, an informed guide can take you around, and meals are prepared from organically-grown ingredients. There you go! All you have to do in this case is lift your finger and google options ;) And just like that you’d have saved a little piece of the earth. Easy peasy!
As Jane Goodall says, ‘You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make’.
A last reminder: No matter where you are in the world, leave just your footprints. And not empty bottles, banana peels, picnic leftovers, et al. Yes the banana peel or your fruit seed is biodegradable, but the weeks it takes to decompose and disappear, it is garbage, spoiling the same beautiful scenery you had first fallen in love with.
Take pride in living on this planet. Think of ways to give back as you gain. Listen carefully, and you shall hear the earth whisper – ‘tread softly for you tread on my dreams’.
Contributed by Nidhi a travel researcher and writer, with a knack for finding treasures wherever she goes. She likes littering Instagram with her illustrations, posting as @travel.illustrator.
]]>1. Curated Workout Playlist
There’s nothing better than getting into the gym, popping in your headphones, and zoning out to your fav music. Spend some time before you head out compiling a playlist of songs that put you in a good mood. Your workout will go way smoother, and you’ll be feeling yourself the whole time. Update it every once in a while to mix it up.
2. Sunscreen or BB Cream
Ah. SPF, the holy grail of skincare; also, probably the last thing you’re thinking of when you stumble out the door to work out in the early AM. Just because you’re going to be sweating, though, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a second to pop some on, especially if you’re working out in the sun. If you like a bit of coverage, opt for a BB cream with SPF in it; it’s not too heavy, so your skin will still be able to breathe.
3. Comfortable Workout Clothes
Being comfortable is a must when you’re working out; you definitely don’t want to be concerned with adjusting a too small sports bra or leggings that ride up. Invest in a couple of staple pieces that you can throw on without thinking about; bonus points if they’re super cute, and made sustainably! you’ll feel more confident when you put them on, they’ll last forever, and you’ll be able to focus fully on getting the most out of your session.
4. Extra Hair Ties
We’ve all been there. You get into the gym, you’re feeling great, go to throw your hair up into a ponytail- and the elastic snaps. Now you’re stuck jogging while constantly spitting flying hair out of your mouth. Make sure you keep a couple of extra hair ties in your gym bag to avoid a loose hair fiasco and keep your hair out of your face (and mouth).
5. Facewash or Face wipes
If you’re sweating during a gym session, and not washing your face afterward, you could be setting yourself up for irritated skin, and breakouts. Throw a mini face wash into your gym bag, or a travel pack of your favorite facial wipes if you prefer, to quickly freshen up after a workout before heading out the door.
6. Water
This is self-explanatory, really: you have to stay hydrated. Invest in a reusable, paraben-free water bottle, preferably an insulated one. You’re helping the planet, your water will stay cool even if you’re in the hot sun, and your body (and skin) will thank you for it. Just make sure you don’t chug too much before getting started.
7. Post Workout Snack
Bring a healthy snack, like some nuts or a banana, with you to munch on after you finish working out. Stay away from processed sugar, and preferably look for high protein options: you’ll feel the absolute best afterward that way.
8. Change of Clothes
Even if you’re not showering at the gym, it’s a good idea to bring a change of underwear, or at least some fresh socks or flip-flops with you. Regardless of if you’re planning to shower as soon as you get home, it’s best to get those sweaty clothes off your body ASAP.
9. A Gym Buddy
Everything’s better with a friend. If you find it hard to build up the motivation to tackle your workouts, recruit a friend to go with you. You’ll motivate each other, and you’re much more likely to show up to an early morning session if you know your friend is waiting for you and will be fuming if you’re a no-show.
10. Self-Love
Above all, be gentle with yourself. By taking the time and energy to focus on your health and well-being, you’re nurturing your soul; don’t counteract it by being overly critical of yourself! Some days will be better than others; accept your shortcomings, and reward your victories (this definitely includes the fact that you showed up, by the way.) Go you!
]]>1. Go to yoga, meditate and get your body moving
Yoga and meditation are great for you! Yoga is a wonderful activity for getting yourself into your “me time” and meditation can have an impact on many areas of your life. Find a meditation practice that fits your schedule and a workout routine. 15 minutes is better than none and it all adds up. Whatever you choose, just move every day
2. Laugh and have coffee with a good friendLaugh and de-stress your life. Don’t forget that connecting with others is good for your soul! Get together with a good friend, have a coffee and enjoy your time. You don't have to necessarily to go out and meet new people, instead just focus on the people who are already in your life, family or close friends.
3. Read books or listen to your favorite musicReading books helps reduce stress and is a good way to relax before bed. If books are not “your cup of tea”, what about listening to your favorite music? How do you not get happy when you hear your favorite song? Our recommendation is some oriental or classic guitar music!
4. Simplify your beauty routine with a beauty treatmentTreat your body well! The phrase, “your body is a temple” is important to remember as you make yourself a priority. Get a wax treatment, book a manicure or get your hair done. Sometimes the small things can make you feel beautiful again. It is very simple when you look good, you feel good.
Take time to invest in your mind by learning a new skill or taking on a hobby. Often moms feel guilty for taking time out of the day to do something on their own but it is not selfish to do something you like and feel better!
6. Be yourselfThink about what you loved to do before you had children and find ways to integrate this into your life and “me time.” It could be a passion you never pursued. When you spend time doing things that bring you joy, your happiness will grow!
7. Take a hot bathEssential oils offer a powerful path to self-healing and self-care. A perfect combination for stress relief is to diffuse a few drops of lavender oil into a hot bath and light a few candles. Play with different combinations until you find the mix that works with your needs. Grab a sponge and give yourself a little drop of love in the shower with a bit of grapefruit. It is another refresher which will really start your day off well.
8. Get SleepSleep is essential to stay healthy. Go to bed on time so you can get 7-8 hours of sleep. Get enough sleep so you have the energy you want and need for the day. When you are tired, you are more likely to skip workouts! Stay away from stimulating food with caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. Whenever possible, though, put a higher priority on your sleep.
9. Make Healthier ChoicesMake better choices about the food you consume – less sugar, more fresh fruits, and vegetables. Eat healthy, nutritious food that makes you feel good, not tired. Listen to your body and how the food you eat makes you feel. Eat nutritious food so you feel energized. Your children are watching how you treat yourself. When you eat healthy food, your kids will follow your lead. Start meal planning, or begin using a diet and health tracker app.
10. Do activities that make you happy.Make a list of things that bring you joy or things you would like to try. Make sure the list is easily visible by putting it on the table to remind you every day.
A happy mother is the best mother!
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One of the most globally recognized, fast fashion brands H&M, we hear is reportedly closing down the most number of stores in two decades! While this is largely attributed to a worldwide transformation in mindsets and online shopping patterns, the large quantities of unsold stock is what the Swedish brand is trying to liquidate. It also points to a shift, however small, but towards a growing awareness amongst consumers about the “actual” cost of buying into fast fashion and not merely the prices of the clothes they buy and wear. And it is this shift that the Fashion Revolution lends momentum too.
Born on the 23rd of April, 2013, in the aftermath of the fourth largest industrial disaster in history, in Bangladesh, the Fashion Revolution aims to disseminate awareness about the long journey that garments make from farms, weaving units, to store racks. To introduce to the final consumers, of what goes behind creating each shirt and each legging they wear - the idea of sustainable sourcing, fair wages, production and consumption patterns that outtake a toll on our already fragile and overburdened ecosystem.
The impact of fast fashion?
It might come as a surprise to a lot of people but 80% of the 75 million people in
fashion manufacturing industry are women between the ages of 18 and 35 and the
majority of whom still lie under poverty. While that is the perspective of the people
behind it, the products that they make directly affect our environment, and quite often adversely. Even though we don't see it happening in our neighborhood, chemicals used to treat and dye garments end up in our lakes and rivers. What’s more, copious amounts of water is needed to grow and manufacture cotton on an industrial scale.
Shrinking margins, cheaper clothes, fleeting fashion trends are driving consumers like you & me to buy more, regardless of whether one needs it. As a result, more clothes are ending up in landfills and incinerators than ever, further polluting our soil water and air. Which, as we all know is a vicious cycle.
So fashion revolution? Is there more to it besides #whomademyclothes
A Call for Transparency in one of the largest, most saturated, most polluting industries in the world, is an uphill climb. But it is worth it!
• Minimum wages, fair wages, Ethical processes
• Better accountability in small or large enterprises
• Buy local. Fairtrade
• Comfortable work environments, equitable profit sharing
• Upcycling, swapping clothing for conscious usage of fashion
But can a hashtag cleanse it all?
Maybe, maybe not. But every drop in the ocean counts, and in this case every scrap of cloth!
Living in one of the most exciting & engaging times, where social media and viral
campaigns spark off mini-revolutions, we have a movement taking shape. Social media can be credited to driving consumerism, but surprisingly, even responsible consumerism is picking up thanks to growing awareness amongst the urban youth. And with digital brands like us, at Stretchery, where our core values are completely in sync, it is imperative that we speak up!
“When consumers get truly involved with a brand, they talk about it on their own personal platforms. When conscious fashion becomes a conversation between friends, dinner table debates, and boardroom deliberations - that is change. Small, but sure.”
What can you do
Get aware - Find who makes your clothes, where they are made. Conscious consumption means a deeper understanding of the lifecycle of that garment in your wardrobe. If you don't care, who will?
Shop local - Buy from indigenous ethnic individualistic labels that align with fair trade practices, celebrate craft, their own employees and source responsibly.
Prioritise quality over quantity - Buy clothes that give you real value. Consciously choose natural made fabrics, over the low maintenance - synthetic alternatives. Why do you ask? Because they decompose naturally. They don't end up in landfills taking decades to decompose. Look for quality of finishing and fabric. Read your labels, be curious, ask questions, learn more about what drapes over your body.
Sustainability in your shopping criteria - Choose organic over synthetic. Natural over chemical. Be willing to invest in pieces that will endure over the fast fashion choices.
“At the end of the day, people don’t buy clothing to be responsible. They buy clothes to look good, feel trendy and express themselves. They buy into the brand eventually, their style and their philosophy. So if the brand believes in conscious living and responsible production choices while matching their sartorial choices, they will certainly lean towards it. And that is the influence we
hope to have, even if it is one in five...
One of Delhi’s finest Yoga Gurus, Mini Shastri first trained in Hatha Yoga in Kerala 18 years ago. Successive learning from masters in Bangalore, Mysore, and Chennai as well as across the world have helped her create a unique set of curriculums for all levels of practitioners, as well as workshops on food and nutrition.
What lead you to practice Yoga? When did you realize your calling?
In my 20s, I was competing and training for national games in the category of a pistol and air rifle.
It required, apart from consistent practice, honing my focus levels and keeping an even temperament. The sport needed for us to manage our breaths and watch out for an oscillating, reactive mind which could ultimately affect our scorecard. This got me hooked on the idea using the breath and the mindfulness that came with it.
Around the same time, I got interested in studying the Bhagwad Gita, the ultimate philosophical text on various aspects of Yoga. In my journey onwards, during times of confusion or Distress, I would often refer to dictated notes as I do now when I prep to teach a class. I sensed that the mind had an untapped potential and there was more to be discovered than what met the eye. I was a seeker, just as I am now.
This quest and query for life s innate intelligence and a need for a meditative modality of exercise led me to Yoga which provided the right tool for my inquisitive curious mind.
I went on to do my teachers training in Kerala, Mysore, and Chennai in 1999 and started interning that year at a center in Delhi with my first teacher. I was home!
How do you feel when you practice Yoga?
I have developed a keen connection with my inner environment, more sensitive and aware if I’m off balance and out of tune with my inner rhythms. This helped my drop old samskaras- patterns I was not even aware of that I would keep regrooving. The discomfort in many postures eased as I learned to be in the moment, this habit made me less reactive in life situations.
I developed more compassion for people's battles as I saw limitless potential in myself and then others around me. I was more attuned to nature, its direct effect and so became naturally watchful through the effect of thoughts, the food I consumed, my daily regimen, even what I applied on my face or body. In short, Yoga makes me observe myself from the grosser (breath) to subtle (thoughts and Intuition) level while in practice as well as when not on the mat.
The first thing I noticed with my practice of Yoga was that I no longer could eat non-vegetarian and developed a habit of waking up earlier. Yoga makes me intimately connect with my breath and opens me inward to subtle information and self-exploration.
What inspires you?
The fact that we have an incredibly evolved and sophisticated, intelligent Body, Mind and spirit and that it all needs to be connected to feel the joy of life and to live a great health span ( not just lifespan)
Would you consider yourself a student or a teacher? Which role do you enjoy the more out of the two?
Definitely a student for life. It’s a vast subject and it’s a lifetime of Self Discovery through steps and techniques like Kriyas, Pranayama, Asana, Meditation, Service, Study of scriptures and actually making time for doing it. So it’s experiential growth and not just knowledge by reading. I enjoy teaching what I know and sharing the way it makes me feel. It’s simple yet consistent interventions that Yoga asks of us. The maladies and diseases of urban lifestyles now are just so ever increasing.
What aspect of being a woman would you celebrate or you think needs to be celebrated the most today?
Women are my only hope left to take this country forward. Women’s gift of intuition, strength and nurturing are nature’s gift to her.
]]>Whatever you do first thing in the morning, it is very important to have a good morning routine because, for whatever reason, it does wonders for getting the most out of your day!
]]>Good morning Everybody!
How are you spending your morning hours? Do take it easy and drink coffee in bed or get up as soon as the alarm sounds?
Whatever you do first thing in the morning, it is very important to have a good morning routine because, for whatever reason, it does wonders for getting the most out of your day!
Here are some practical steps on how to start your day with a perfect morning routine:
And remember, small rituals and healthy habits will empower you and make your life more enjoyable! So, wake up and “carpe diem”!
]]>Prachi works as the Relationships Editor for iDiva, a woman’s lifestyle website. She is also the author of ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ which was published in June 2017 by Juggernaut Books. She is a Yoga lover and the anchor of iDiva’s original web show Real Girl Yoga.When she’s not writing or doing yoga, Prachi gets busy reading, playing with her cats, or daydreaming about her next vacation.
Prachi is now working on her second book, which is a commentary on how patriarchal principles harm men in the context of romantic relationships.
Why did you choose to write? When did you realize your calling?
I’m a woman of many interests, and easily bored with one thing. But, one place where I find that I can manifest all my interests, and at the same time, keep myself intellectually stimulated, is writing. I switched careers from being a full-time psychologist to a full-time writer 3 years ago, and it was the best decision I’ve taken. There’s something new to read, write, and learn every day! My writing is also where I apply my other two loves - psychology and yoga. I feel that words are a powerful tool of change, with a wide reach that has the potential to outlive the writer. That thought is exhilarating and daunting.
How do you feel when you write?
It depends on what I’m writing. But, on most days, it is a glorious combination of excitement and catharsis.
What inspires you?
Inspiration is literally everywhere! There’s a story in everything that you do, witness, or feel. You just have to pay attention
Would you consider Yoga as an integral part of your life? If so why and how? If not then what is?
Yoga is what keeps me centered through the ups and downs of life, and work. So, yes, it is very much an integral part of my life. I started yoga as a physical practice, but over the years it has become much more than just moving my body. The mat is where I connect with myself, and it is through this connection that I nurture nearly everyday, that I can connect with other people, my work, and my life experiences. Without my yoga practice, I would be very out of sorts.
What aspect of being a woman would you celebrate or think needs to be celebrated the most today?
I think today is a wonderful time to be a woman! For years now, we have been fighting for a voice, and today, we have that voice. We are heard, acknowledged, respected. We have opportunities that our mothers didn't. We have laws to support us. We have an education. Many things that were a taboo for women - staying single, going out, having jobs, choosing not to have children - are slowly but surely breaking. Many men, too, are not starting to value independent women who can think for themselves. We are in the thick of an intellectual, emotional, social and sexual wave of liberation, and it is exciting! There is a lot that women can do today to impact the world, in whatever sphere they like. Couldn't ask for more!
Tishani Doshi is the author of five books of fiction and poetry. At 26, an encounter with the choreographer Chandralekha led her to an unexpected career in dance. In 2006, her first book of poems, Countries of the Body, won the Forward Prize for best first collection. She is also the recipient of an Eric Gregory Award and the winner of the All-India Poetry competition. 'Girls are Coming out of the Woods' is her third full-length collection. She currently lives on a beach between two fishing villages in Tamil Nadu with her husband and three dogs.
Why did you choose a career in Poetry? When did you realize your calling?
Life unfolds and there’s not much you can do about it. I’ve always suffered a kind of restlessness and I suppose poetry was the only thing that could channel this restlessness. I’m sure I’d have been a perfectly competent banker, but I think I would have been incredibly scattered. Poetry stills everything. For that, I’m happy.
How do you feel when you write?
In time. Exactly in that moment.
What inspires you?
Unexplored countries, well-paid gigs, the shape of pigs, breakfasts, mountain walks, I could go on.
Is dance an integral part of your life?
It’s not. I miss dance. It was a much bigger part of my life than it is now. I don’t mean just in the performative sense, I also mean just blasting music and dancing alone in your room. There’s a basic response of the body to music, which I love. You have given me the idea to make it integral again.
What aspect of being a woman would you celebrate or you think needs to be celebrated the most today?
I don’t believe in this concept. The idea that we have to celebrate aspects of a woman seems strange to me. Or men, for that matter. Or dogs, even though they’d deserve it. Let’s celebrate aliveness. We’re alive. Yahoo!
]]>Once upon a time, receiving a basket of oranges or a pack of sweet strawberries were the best gift one could ask for, but somewhere along the line that simplicity got morphed into a complicated purchasing process that sends us into a mini-panic to scour around town for unique things.
But for many of us, this is far too overwhelming and un-authentic. And luckily for us, this is not merely a superfluous marketing trend, but a more thoughtful approach that many have come to believe in, owing to personal experiences.
Personal fitness, mindful living, conscious choices in food or otherwise is making this generation look towards humble alternatives that make a difference to their own body and the environment like-wise. And it wouldn't be wrong to admit that a lot of this is contributed, as we increasingly aspire for better physical health - first.
Keeping that thought alive with every venture of ours, we introduce a small range of accessories that would aid your fitness journey and compliment the organic apparel on our website or the ones that might already have - Headbands and Yoga totes.
Intended for yoga and light cardio practitioners, the headbands are adaptable to all kinds of fitness routines as well. What is unique about these headbands is that they are up-cycled from our production waste, which in a normal scenario would be considered as scrap and be discarded by many others. However, we intend to at every step of our journey be consistently sustainable, to practice and to offer. So, indeed what you see on our page and what you eventually buy is a piece or a token of sustainability or ‘good karma’ as they say.
These headbands are versatile in their wear, they absorb sweat, keep the moisture intact, keep your lovely locks in control during exercise. Additionally, they can just be worn to the beach as a fashionable accessory. In fact, they can be opened up to wear as a bandana too. We offer two colors as of now, both of which can be matched to most things in your wardrobe. Age no bar & One size fits all! And together with the Tote is a thoughtful gift-bundle.
The Totes come with a minimalistic yet stylish design language with neutral colors that would fit right in with your apparel. Needless to say, the totes have multi-utility purposes, as it comes in a handy size and can be used from holding your yoga wear, towel or mat and even for regular uses like books and groceries.Meant for all age groups and due to the breezy-cotton material, they can be hand washed very easily.
While these are great for personal wear, they make for modest yet thoughtful gifts for your loved ones while being extremely low maintenance. And you needn't scour around town anymore.
]]>Always be a goal digger!
2018 has already started but it is never too late to make a list of your goals and make them real. Here is my guide on how to achieve every goal you want! “Today is the beginning of whatever you want”.
1. PLAN – “A goal without a plan is just a dream”.
Every time when you have a goal you want to achieve, you need a plan. It is not that hard to make a plan but it is not easy to stick to the plan. But I believe that every dream can become a reality if you have a good plan. So, let’s start and make it. It moves from the abstraction to reality. If you want to lose weight, make a plan of your exercises, how many times per week, what you will eat, how much water you need to drink… Or if you want to find a better job, you need to improve your CV, see more job lists or start learning some new skills… Anyway, this is the first step to achieve any goal. Let’s start!
2. DISCIPLINE – “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment”.
For everything in life, you need discipline. And probably, it is the hardest thing. But if you have discipline, you are so close to making your dreams come true. This is the second step because, after a good plan, you just have to stick to it. We can achieve anything as long as we work hard. My plan is to improve my mental and physical state…Now, I am trying to eat healthy food (no meat, sugar…) and do yoga because it is perfect for a good shape of your body and also, your state of mind. Shaped body and relaxed mind… perfect!
3. WILL – “If it is important to you, you will find a way. If not, you will find an
excuse”.
This is the key! There is nothing you can`t do if you have a will! Personally, I believe
motivation is what moves you. That thing that gives you the last atom of energy! If you have excuses and you give up easily, there is no plan that can help you! Start today so you could wake up on 31 st of December and say that you have achieved everything you wanted. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.
Our fast-paced lives have made the art of considerate gifting a challenge of epic proportions. In a slower time, the entire process of driving to stores to browse and chance upon interesting and unexpected things that make for great gifts was both enjoyable and immersive as an experience. Urban living, however, has taken some of the joys out of this, leaving us browsing online and wondering what would make for good gifts for friends, families, colleagues, and spouses. And while the formal festive season of gifting is behind us in the year gone by, a whole new calendar of birthdays, anniversaries, and occasions like mother's and father's day lie ahead. So whether it is Valentine's, Holi or your best friend's birthday, here is your ready reckoner for gifting ideas that are thoughtful and considerate to both the receiver and the planet.
Depending upon the receiver and occasion, we typically gift to individuals and families either on formal occasions or at a personal level.
While giving a gift to a family, consider possible options under the categories of Decor, Utility, and Experience. Eco-friendly objects of decor like a handwoven rug made of upcycled fabric or natural material like reed and cane make for great gifts for families that can be used in a plethora of ways. If you are thinking of gifting something utilitarian, consider handmade ceramic cups or a handspun throw for a sofa or a kitschy ottoman. A guided city walk, a picnic in a park or an organic meal experience also make for memorable experiential gifts for families and groups.
When it comes to individuals, it is helpful to build gifting around broad categories like Work, Food, Travel, Home, Hobbies and Personal gifts. Let us give you some ready reckoners and ideas on what to, or where to -
Work
From artisan made laptop bags to bamboo mouse pads and copper waterbottles, work accessories present a large gifting possibility. Personalized eco-friendly notebooks/ stationery, a woven cane photo frame for their desk or a compilation of music to play while working are all considerate workplace gifts for friends and colleagues. Choosing consciously made products that are built to last and reduce the use of plastic are a great way to gift both thoughtfully and considerately.
Food
Home bakers and individual-run patisseries can help you gift something that is both personal and a custom made. Something as simple as a batch of muffins or freshly baked oatmeal cookies (for the health-conscious) are gifts that have an almost universal appeal. Taking people fruits while visiting them has always been a common unspoken Indian ritual and even today, a box of organic mangoes or produce from a local farmer's market still makes for an uncommon gift.
Travel
Given that most people travel in some form or the other, there are a whole range of travel-friendly gifts to consider. Books based on destinations they are traveling to, a hand-knit or woven scarf or stole for chilly airport lounges, oversize tote bags made of upcycled plastic, jewelry and trinket pouches made by organizations that work with or support NGOs. Gifting your loved one a quick getaway to a wildlife retreat is an alternative way of showing your love. Or if they lean towards an active, wellness led lifestyle, what about a yoga-based holiday? Something for the heart and the soul.
Home
From handcrafted windchimes to a wooden newspaper stand or a potted plant, people who love and tend to their homes with imagination and care are easy to gift. Artisanal fairs like Dastkar are great places to hunt for gifts for them that add great value and bring joy. We recently came across a unique gift that works both for a home or at work; A calendar that blooms into a garden!
Check them out here - https://lbb.in/mumbai/kyaari-eco-friendly-calendar/
Hobbies
Gifting something that contributes to a hobby or a specific area of interest is a great way to say you notice and you care. Something as simple as a great pair of knitting needles or handspun wool or yarn for someone who loves tactile activities likes knitting or crocheting is an unusually thoughtful gift. A book on the subject, a subscription to a magazine that talks about it or even a compilation of audio and video guides on the subject are gifts likely to be appreciated.
Personal gifts
While most of us have gifted an article of clothing or a perfume at some point of time, in making more aware and sustainable choices in this area, we can introduce people to the idea of doing the same. Found a perfume that's made by a local perfumery? Gift someone a sampler. Handmade soaps, organic skincare, bath salts, massage oils are all examples of sustainable gifting that we adopt while looking for personalized gifts. You can find some here -
https://in.iherb.com/ | http://organicshop.in/beauty-care/hand-body-care/massage-oil
Something quirky ?-
https://www.woodworksinc.in/
Natural, distinctive, and something different perhaps.
So, what are you waiting for? Valentine's is just around the corner and holds out the possibility of gifting everyone who touches your life and you love. And if there is a chance that you will be gifting in person, take 5 minutes out of your day to wrap the gift with anything from newspaper to reused gift wrapping, tie it with a twine and add a handwritten note. Because no matter how fast-paced our lives, gifting should still be an act that slows us down to savor the sheer joy of giving.
Radhika understands that in today’s hectic yet sedentary lifestyle, it is very important to take time out to move your body. Ever since her bad fall which injured her lower back in 2005, Radhika has worked towards making Pilates the movement of choice for herself and many others. She is a strong believer in mind and body wellness and works extensively on incorporating the principles of Pilates with the Yoga’s yamas.
Radhika holds a Master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Texas Woman’s University, Houston. She has also done a fellowship in Adolescent and Sports Medicine which allowed her to work with professional and division 1 college-level athletes. She has been in the field of wellness for over 15 years practicing Pilates and nutrition.
Radhika returned to India 8 years ago and started Radhika’s Balanced Body - her nutrition, Pilates, and personal training studio in Mumbai.
What keeps you ‘Active’?
My work keeps me active! However, my personal activity of choice is running or swimming.
Please share a ritual that helps you re-center.
PILATES! It is the ONLY form of movement where you cannot come to practice without your mind…it is a whole mind, body, and spirit exercise.
Guilty Pleasure?
Cheesecake…eeekkks…cannot believe I am confessing this! I loooooove cheesecake!
What do you love the most about what you do?
The healing that Pilates brings to the lives I touch. People who practice with my team and I come and tell us their amazing stories of healing and the activities they are now able to do, all thanks to Pilates! I love those stories and love that I can do that for people.
What inspires you?
My family – they never let me quit, they are constantly pushing me to do bigger and better, and support me unconditionally. I am where I am today because of them.
Three items on your work desk?
Copper water bottle, measuring tape (to check inch loss), and Pilates manuals.
Favorite travel spots?
Ohhhh…so, so, so many but top 3 would be Belize, Sitlakhet, and Sri Lanka.
]]>Roman has been a health coach in Delhi for over a decade inspiring clients around the globe to achieve remarkable results including dramatic weight loss, enhanced levels of fitness and the reversal of chronic illnesses.
Over the years Roman has gained a number of qualifications from global health and nutrition industry leaders in both cutting-edge disciplines and ancient medicine systems. To date Roman holds certification from the American College of Sports Medicine, the Institute of Nutritional Leadership, a bachelors degree in Alternative Medicine awarded by the Indian Board of Alternative Medicine and is a Precision Nutrition certified coach. From this extensive knowledge base, Roman devised a unique coaching system incorporating a range of psychosocial techniques to transform negative belief systems, often the real barriers to sustained change in both physical and emotional health.
In addition to his existing client base, Roman is currently busy educating trainers and coaches in health assessment protocols and collaborating on the development of a range of functional food snacks, safe Cosmetics and hygiene products which are to be launched soon on the market.
What keeps you ‘Active’?
A stand-up desk- I spend few hours each day in front of a screen, I make sure I am standing up for all this screen-staring time, take a few minutes break every 40 minutes or so spent looking at the screen.
The 5-minute workout - A set each of pull ups, push ups and squats, occasionally other bodyweight exercises, all done without rest and the session is rarely more than five minutes longer.
A lot of my work Involves Phone usage (client calls) I try to schedule these calls and go for long walks in parks while on phone few days a week minimum.
Farmers walk - Carrying awkward to hold and heavy object while walking. I do this as a work out so it can last for few minutes each day.
Please share a ritual that helps you recenter.
Meditation is the most powerful tool I have for the purpose of coming back to neutral/ center
Cooking can be easily classified as a form of Meditation, cooking for friends and family is probably the best reason to cook for according to me, it really helps me grounding.
Long walking Meditations, just thinking about it makes me smile. Meditating while walking or going for a walk in your Meditation while seated.
I use various modalities and tools for Meditation. Some of the best apps for meditation in my personal and working experience are Headspace, Omvana, Insight-timer, Calm.
Guilty Pleasure?
Single Malt is my largest guilty pleaser. Cheesecakes can make me feel guilty also but that's super rare, but happens.
Another one I feel guilty for is Switching my phone off for more than one day! I really think mobile phones are the biggest health threat to humanity that has become a necessary part of the modern human life on the planet today.
What do you love the most about what you do?
There are several reasons to love what I do, but the most gratifying one has to be witnessing the moment of change in my clients. Change is a process but there are ah-ha moments where a switch goes on or off to initiate a completely new process that unfolds as changes in behaviors, decision making and outcomes of their journeys in health.
Freedom is another big reason of loving my work life, the freedom to choose the clients to work with, when to do the work and from where to do it is a important factor of doing what i do as a coach.
What inspires you?
Nature, really wild outdoors, Trees, Birds, and Mountains are a few of my favorite areas to get inspiration from.
Witnessing of the human spirit that is open to, and allowing of change for greater good is very inspiring to me.
Three items on your work desk?
A red light lamp with Rock salt crystals Bottle of my favorite nootropics A piece of Jungle from my last trip
Favourite travel spots?
Tokyo, Berlin, Melbourne
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In an age where we can own or experience anything we desire at the click of a button and have it delivered to our homes or screens, consumption has taken on an unsustainable edge. Instant gratification has over time become the biggest driver of human action and fashion remains a significant contributor to this category. Advertising and social media also keep most of us unaware of the actual cost of the fashion we own, consume and discard, focusing instead only on selling versus educating.
That being ironical though since it is an era of information and ample awareness.
A slowly rising wave of conscious living hopes to stem the tide of overconsumption. So, while it is exaggerated (to say the least) to think that not buying a basic cotton T-shirt from a mass produced label outsourcing from an undeveloped nation, can help the planet; it is fair to say that a lifetime of conscious consumption of fashion can make a significant difference to your impact on the planet.
From the strain on water resources to irrigating cotton crop to the introduction of man-made compounds such as synthetic dinners or pesticides, fashion poses an enormous challenge to sustainability. Redesigning or reinvigorating the fashion industry with its current practices and existing customer mindset such that fashion is not in conflict with the planet is the intent of the Slow Fashion Movement.
Simply put, it is about quality time devoted to creating a product of better quality that is built to endure. What this also means is an audience, like you and me, that values quality and cares about the impact of it on the larger ecosystem.
Just the way customers drive higher consumption when offered fashion at prices too low to be fair to the makers, conscious customers can drive the movement towards sustainable, ethical, eco-friendly fashion by making themselves aware and looking beyond instant gratification.
It helps to understand that slow fashion doesn’t translate to reducing our choices but to designing, producing, consuming and living better. Something that used to be a way of life even a decade ago.
Educate yourself. When buying basic wardrobe staples and garments you will wear for a while, give a thought to where it has come from, how much wear you will actually get out of it before retiring it.
Pay for quality. Garments made from high-quality material, in classic styles and with attention to detail are usually timeless. They age slowly and often wear the signs of aging well. Support and buy from brands and designers who create them.
Be considerate. Think of the people who make the garment you are buying. Be fair in what you are willing to pay. Be prepared to pay more for products that are made carefully with attention to detail and by hand. What often to us, is merely a fashion purchase drives people’s livelihoods. And in our mad race to live and enjoy we tend to forget. Support local design and labor, because that is the ecosystem we are living & contributing towards...
Expand your scope. Build relationships with the people who create what you consume and engage to understand what goes into producing what you consume. The backstory always gives us a whole new perspective and increases the value we attach to a product or experience.
Value Longevity. We all know the joy of wearing into something over time and feeling the familiar comfort of something that’s aged along with us. Remember that the next time you are on the brink of a buying decision. Keep endurance, versatility and the ability to age gracefully in mind while buying a product over trend.
Trends are indicators, not diktats. Take the time to discover what works for you instead of relying on trends. In fact, we all have elephants in our closets that were simply trend buys and have been worn all of thrice! - Invest in fashion instead of going broke trying to keep up with it.
At Stretchery, we are founded on the core ideology of being a fair trade brand that prioritizes the planet first. We work to build conscientious products while respecting the rights of the people who create them and the course of nature. Just like the global movement, Fashion Revolution, we deeply echo with their vision.
Fashion Revolution is a global movement that runs all year long. They celebrate fashion as a positive influence while also scrutinizing industry practices and raising awareness of the fashion industry’s most pressing issues. They aim to show that change is possible and encourage those who are on a journey to create a more ethical and sustainable future for fashion.
The belief of a fashion industry that values people, the environment, creativity and profit in equal measure.
We want to unite people and organizations to work together towards radically changing the way our clothes are sourced, produced and consumed so that our clothing is made in a safe, clean and fair way.
We believe that collaborating across the whole value chain — from farmer to consumer — is the only way to transform the industry.
Our mission is to bring everyone together to make that happen.
#whomademyclothes
As part of a larger movement towards transparency in the fashion or clothing industry, the #whomademyclothes campaign was started. It was a unique stance across social media, that encouraged people to get involved in understanding who actually makes the clothes they wear and the real-time cost and impact of fashion in our daily lives. To understand how this works first hand and to join the movement, check out the Fashion Revolution page at http://fashionrevolution.
While all our practices at Stretchery are designed around this philosophy, it has over time even seeped into the design, the details and even the execution of our lines. Doing less with more and balancing the challenges of being sustainably fashionable are the predominant themes of our latest collection, Off the grid. Look it up and the beautiful products in resulted in here www.stretchery.com
]]>Tanvi a yoga teacher and owner of Tangerine Arts Studio in Mumbai spends her time in teaching yoga, dancing and running the studio. In her free time, you will find her cuddling and kissing her baby Tara, her pet dog and or else traveling the world.
What keeps you active?
Yoga keeps me both active and passive. Running a studio keeps me on my toes and spending time with my family and work helps me find the perfect balance.
What is one thing that you wish everyone would remind themselves every day?
Spend some time with your breath in silence, far away from technology.
Would you call yourself a teacher or a student?
Student for life.
What inspires you?
Nature inspires me to be humble, happy, grateful, loving and ambitious.
Three items on your work desk?
Cute quirky stationery. Trinkets from all my travels. Candles.
What current fitness trend is your favorite?
I don't follow current trends in fitness. I believe in traditional yoga and I am most happy with what it does for my mental, emotional and physical toning. Hand me a mat and I am super content. Pretty sure one can conquer the world with a mat in tow.
]]>Erika is a yogini living in San Francisco, working in the Silicon Valley tech scene. A lover SF Bay Area and its laid-back West coast vibe; her family moved to the valley when she was a kid and her parents are still nearby, which makes this home to her. Oldest of three girls and she is very close with her family, which also currently includes three family dogs. Her background is Swedish and she visits her family there each summer, in addition to other various travel excursions as she loves exploring new parts of the world. She’s lived in four different countries and speaks three languages fluently, with the goal to learn more. She both practices and teaches yoga, which keeps her young, limber and ready for anything life throws at her!
What keeps you ‘Active’?
Most recently, my new dog Liesl has kept me up and running. We live in an apartment in San Francisco, so it’s two flights of stairs and down the street to the park every 4 hours for a potty break! That plus twice daily walks and play time basically makes her my personal cardio trainer, so I think we’re a great match for each other.
It’s always important to me to be active no matter what though – I feel my best when I’ve had at least an hour of some kind of activity each day whether that’s yoga, another exercise class or even just a brisk walk. Just knowing that I’ll feel my best afterward is enough to keep me moving.
What is one thing that you wish everyone would remind themselves every day?
Gratitude is a very powerful sentiment. It’s something I try to remind myself of each day: how many blessings I have in my life, and how lucky I am for all the little things. As we get caught up in our daily stressors and life’s hurdles, it’s easy to forget that having a roof over our heads, food on the table, and loved ones to hug makes us much more fortunate than a large portion of the world’s population. Whenever things seem tough, I try to remind myself that all things shall pass, it could always be so much worse, and that I’m thankful for everything that HAS gone right – these are life’s blessings
Guilty Pleasure?
I hate to admit this, but I’m a big fan of dumb reality TV shows. It’s just the perfect form of brainless entertainment after a long day! I like to catch up on episodes of the Kardashians, the Bachelor/Bachelorette and 90-Day Fiancée with my roommates. However, I think it’s important to realize that these shows are not actual “reality” and to only take them at face value for entertainment purposes.
Would you call yourself a teacher or a student?
Both, but first and foremost I am a student – a student of yoga, a student of life, and so much more. I believe we are all students, and I think it’s really important that our teachers never stop striving to acquire higher knowledge. We always have so much more to learn from other people and their diverse experiences, and it’s through this learning process that we are best enabled to guide others, and even still ourselves.
What inspires you?
Amazing human beings inspire me, and there are tons of them on this planet. I’m inspired by those who overcome incredible odds; single mothers starting their own businesses, people with disabilities working to achieve what they were told they never could, and anyone else who pushes to thrive despite life’s hurdles. I’m inspired by those who go out of their way to help others in times of need, and often those they don’t even know, like all the volunteers who have mobilized to help people and animals alike in the recent hurricane aftermaths. It all comes back to gratitude and seeking light and opportunity when all seems dark.
Three items on your work desk?
1) Aloe plant: it was a birthday gift from my mom, and gives off the perfect calming vibe.
2) My “Fika” mug (Swedish word for an afternoon snack break) used as a pen holder: it reminds me of my roots and my family.
3) S’well water bottle: I drink tons of water throughout the day and am a big fan of the reusable bottle my sisters got for me. I probably have to refill it 4-5 times per day!
What current fitness trend is your favorite?
I’ve been really into barre class lately! It’s a great strength-training workout, and I’ve found it complements my yoga practice very nicely. I think barre resonates with me so much because of the borrowed elements from ballet, which I danced for 13 years. To me, any fitness regimen should be enjoyable and fit your style. I’m still pulling for aerobics to make a comeback, it’s one of my all-time favorites!
At Stretchery we are constantly inspired by ‘you’. The ways in which you wear our clothes and what you tell us through that, find a way into our design process...
]]>At Stretchery we are constantly inspired by ‘you’. The ways in which you wear our clothes and what you tell us through that, find a way into our design process. Also, our interest in listening to you is not limited to just what you wear, but to how you feel, think and evolve. As an organic cotton wear brand while we stand for sustainability, we also understand the challenge of balancing conscious living in a fast-paced world. And we know that this is something ‘you’ do all the time.
Our all-new collection, Off the Grid, is inspired by this fine balance we all strive to achieve.
We understand that we live in a time of increasingly stark contrasts where we can access the world at the click of a button; See places we have never been to in three dimensions, buy things we have not touched, and read food menus in cafes across the planet; Yet, now more than ever we crave the simple joys of tangible physical experiences and long for meaningful acquaintances .
While living and functioning in what often seems like a diverse but linear environment that offers us a multitude of options, we try to live more in tune with our mind and body. And it is this dichotomy that our all-new collection, Off the Grid represents and celebrates.
Inspired by every individual’s effort to break free and live a life that is more active, sustainable and self-reliant, this collection features solid colours ranging from basic blacks to berry and plum and from dove grey to moody blues. Combining quirky details and stylised prints, this range of activewear is both versatile and multifunctional. The angular isometric grids in the print pattern have embedded details of a mechanical grid and human figures in workout-activities. The collection comprises of apparel for both men & women with an attempt to bring a harmonious balance between design and function. The idea of many possibilities, of more but with less.
Given that our active wearers remain central to our design process, when we see you multi-purpose the same garment for a plethora of activities, we try and build that into our design. The designs with peek-a-boo cut-outs offer the wearer the ability to customise the garment by changing up what you combine it with. Not only that, they add to the sensuality of the garment, making it feminine and body defining without being literal.
We believe that attention to intangible details go a long way in creating interest and define our vision of ‘less is more’.
So, go ahead and browse our all new range created with immense effort energy and dedication and tell us how and where you would wear it. And we hope that as you balance the paradoxes of living well but living consciously you find the comfort and flexibility that can make all the difference to your journey and the choices on the way.