Happy Birthday to me!!!

Yay....Happy Birthday to me!! I so wait for this day to dawn. And, then, I get sad that it is over. My hubby was asking are you not unhappy that you get a year older. He was joking, of course, but the answer is no. I love being older and feeling younger. Anyways, signing off early today!! See you tomorrow with a new post :)

Is self-diagnosis a healthy habit? {Health}

I have had this habit of googling my symptoms to find out if I have a dreaded disease or condition since I have been hooked to internet. In fact, last August or September, I had been so convinced that I have PCOS/PCOD that I wanted to contact a gyneac immediately and it was all because of the facial hair. 

Again what happened in October was I started visiting the washroom too many times in the day and my mum was staying with me at that time so she asked me if I have developed diabetes. I suddenly became so conscious that I reduced the intake of fluids!! And, started to search for other symptoms of diabetes. 

I have done this multiple number of times like when I wanted to find out whether rheumatoid arthritis was genetic or when retina detachment was diagnosed in my eyes. Thankfully, either of the time I did not really land up with the doctor but it is a serious habit which can have long term implications if it becomes an obsession. 

When I found out more about retina detachment and talked to my eye doc about it, the only advise she gave was that never read on internet about health condition. What she said was there are so many parameters which actually affect the said condition and our own body build plays a very important role in how far a condition can affect you so not all we read can be true for us. 

It is a very subjective affliction and it is better to keep a positive mind about anything instead of reading a lot of depressing stuff. 

On a very different plane, I am a subscriber of a very famous feminist blog but sometimes when I see the posts over there, I feel depressed. I think that it only brings out the worst parts of the society. Well, that is what the blog is aimed at and I am not want criticizing it. It is just that it does not appeal to my sense of optimism. 

Similarly, reading a lot about medical conditions, pregnancies, cancers online can give you a personal perspective on a thing and act as a motivation but it can never really answer your questions correctly. If you are really interested in finding an answer for yourself, it is better to go to the doctor and get a professional opinion. 

That being said, one should never run to the doc without much observation on their own part either!! It is very important to connect with your body to really listen to its needs and wants and what it is trying to convey.

Do you also try to self-diagnose?

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Blogging Series Vol. 2 - Blogging on the Go!!

I gained enlightenment during this 10 day trip!! What happened, you say? Ok, lemme recount part of Guwahati trip, the part where maps were of only help when we were doing educated frolicking around the city. And, that was when I realized the importance of an Android-based phone. 

Wait, more is yet to come! And, then, we sat in the bus and the guy started reading a blog. Then, it dawned on me suddenly what I am missing!! I wasn't able to make time in Guwahati and for that matter in Kharagpur either to come online and put up a post. 

So, I thought what great fun it would be to have a mobile connected to internet round the clock and I can atleast put down my ideas which always seem to come at the most unlikliest of the times. And, sometimes, I just feel too lazy to get up and open the laptop.

Also, probably, I might interact with you all more if I have a portable device which is simple to use. I was of the class of people who deplore this amount of dependence on technology but it becomes imperative to stay with the

advancements when you own a business.

And, blogging is no less than business, trust me!! So, the next on my list is an HTC mobile. Well, BB and Nokia are not android based, Samsung is not high on my list of loves and iPhone is way too expensive and has compatibility issues if you do not belong to the Apple group. 

So, that leaves HTC. So, here are my requirements - it has to have a big screen which is easily readable, clarity is very important, airtel gives 2g connection at 100 bucks a month or something and even with the usage of maps, one doesn't reach that limit it seems. 

And, the final part of the story is that it will save me so much of time. I can blog whenever I want and I don't have to depend on the presence of laptop. So, if you are of the class of people like me, realize the importance of being connected. And, the best part, you won't miss any more mails from the PR's :D

Oh btw, do you have any model recommendations for me? Honestly, I am not interested in spending a lot on mobile. Its just a device for me unlike the camera which I am totally loving and guess what I learned how to use the shutter priority mode as well...yipeeeeee :)

Related Posts:

Blogging Series Vol. 1 - Giveaway Condemnations!!

Weekend Gossip Vol 3. - Trips and more Trips

that was at the airport, I donno why its not coming clearly!! its showing really well on the laptop though!

Wish you a Happy Republic Day!!

You all would already be aware that I am in Guwahati currently and I am staying here till Sunday and then I have another two day stop to make in Kolkatta in between before I head over to Delhi. This is the first time I have ever been to North-East so the experience has been pretty good in some ways. And, I am dead tired.

Yup, I did roam around a bit in Guwahati though there is not much to see here. Then, we are going to attend Republic Day celebrations after like what many years!! And, ya, I do have loads of snaps. The cam didn't fail me but I realized I am not so good with taking snaps which, obviously, wasn't a very heartening realization :(

Going across Brahmaputra on ferry is the highlight of the trip which I absolutely loved. We have done it many times but it never gets boring :D The trip details would come slowly and yes, I have another trip planned as well which I shall talk about after it happens.

What about you guys? How did you spend your week?

PS: This post was supposed to be published on 26th Jan but I had other things to publish before that so let this Tuesday be a weekend :) 

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#OneMonthtoHealthyHair Challenge - How's my Hair doing?

Can you guess the products? I love how it adds a pop of color to my shelf!!

So, let me state three things which happened in the last week!!

1. I have been wanting to change my shampoo since quite long now - either the shampoo I have been using has stopped working or my hair needs a change or I am just too bored of using a single brand for more than two years. And, I had been seriously considering trying the two brand ranges which have been reportedly doing well for many! 

2. I am prepping the hair for the #OneMonthtoHealthyHair event starting March 1st!

3. And, then, I get a mail from a brand about a hair challenge they are conducting. I have to use their products for one month and report back! Incidentally, this range is one of the brands I had been seriously considering so I said yes! 

So, the first step in the activity is to detail out on the present condition of my hair!! 

My Biggest Hair Problem!

I have dry curly hair which tends to develop lot of splits if not cared for regularly, and by that I mean ever week!! And, it does tend to get a bit rough sometimes like it did these winters which is the major reason why I had been thinking of changing the shampoo. 

Also, it is possible that it has developed a product build-up so if you think your hair is going through the same phase, try out vinegar. Add a table spoon to the shampoo and then continue washing your hair!! Result - Bouncy and Shiny Hair.

Split Ends?

It has been again 3 months since I did my hair diaries post. I should have kept up with it! So, I had my hair cut in September and my hair did grow back but again a lot of split ends have developed. So, yup, hair cut is pending!! 

Hair Fall, Weak Roots?

I remember that it was November when I used to find so much hair in my comb. Thankfully, it has reduced now. But, itchy scalp still persists! No, I have not yet tried the essential oils. But, tea tree and rosemary essential oils work for itchy scalp!! 

Okay, I do not suffer from weak roots but for those who do, please remember that proper balanced diet is extremely important. Include a lot of protein in your diet and regular scalp massages help with improving blood circulation and improves the scalp conditions.

Frizziness, Dry Hair, Undernourished Hair, Rough Hair?

Due to the winter-y dryness, the hair has developed static and has become a little frizzy but regular after wash hair care does help with that!! Try to use 5 drops of rosehip or pomegranate oil. Even almond oil can help. 

Hot Oil Treatment has been helping a lot to control dryness and rough hair! Also, eating a lot omega 3 helps with hair dryness so do not forget nuts and other dry fruits.

 

Dull Hair? 

Curly hair, by default, lacks shine. So, yes, it is more prone to dullness. I, too, suffer from the same problem. 

Summary

So, I shall be reviewing the product on the grounds of split ends - not getting more of them (remember that existing split ends can NOT be repaired), dry hair - soft and healthier hair and, if possible, shinier hair as well. 

So, that is my hair condition right now. Let us see how much the product helps to improve it! And, by the way, you might have noticed I have blacked out the product name. So, can you guess it? Would you also like to take the hair challenge? Do share your hair condition in the comments below! 

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Just Gossip Vol. 28 - The Secret is Out!!

I can not NOT share this with you!! Hehe...it is the most hilarious experience ever. My husband performed a google search on "What would be the first ideal gift" and the above pic explains all!!

He found the title interesting and started reading this post where I talked about our birthdays falling on the same day and what should I be gifting him! He thought that to be quite a coincidence. Then, he plunged further and checked out the New Year post where I mentioned Podgatlapalli which is his native place. Then, he plunged even further and found out the first night post which he was so angry with me for putting up :D He was like even I do not have those hotel snaps and you put them online :|

I have never disclosed about my blogging work to any of my family members and lately I had been contemplating on telling it to my hubby but I was a little hesitant. And, then he stumbles on it automatically which negates my need to tell him anything!

Anyways, telling him this has made me rather open with him so guess whatever happened was for the good :) Oh btw, we had a post-wedding photoshoot on the Republic Day. It was fun and I shall be relating the experience sometime soon!

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Just Gossip Vol. 25 - The Year 2013!

Rustic Art Little Laundry {Product Review}

Price: Rs 160 for 500 gms

Pros

smells really fresh

cleans clothes well

really gentle on all clothes

My Experience

I have been using this laundry detergent since a month, more or less. My clothes are mostly washed by the maid so I had talked to her as well about how the new detergent was faring!!

And, she said that the detergent was good and cleans the cloths well. In fact, it makes the things easy for her because you know how well the maids actually do things, right?

The detergent doesn't really lather a lot or feel sticky like surf does. And, it gets washed off in just one wash so my maid is happy with less work and complaints!! She is soooooo happy with it.

 

Anyways, leaving my maid's stories, how did I find the product? First of all, it smells really fresh and lemony and is not strong at all. No, the smell doesn't linger on the clothes.

One table spoon is enough 1/3rd or 1/4th of a bucket capacity of water. It cleans the clothes really well. But, it doesn't really remove the stains or anything as far as I know. But, as they say, detergent is only for cleaning the clothes and not for stains. 

I definitely prefer it more than surf and I do guess I shall buy it again. Oh and one more thing, I have finished only half of 500 gms in this one month with a decent amount of clothes load. So, yup, give it a try! But, yes, its a bit expensive.

And, the worst comes now!! I realized just now when I was writing the review that I got the baby clothes laundry powder instead of the regular powder. Shit!! Anyways, next time, I shall have to get the regular one. Do give it a try :)

Other Products from Rustic Art:

Rustic Art Spa and Lotus Organic Bathing Soaps

Rustic Art Aloevera Gel

Rustic Art Algae Organic Bathing Soap

Even a Queen needs Maintenance!!

One day Draupadi was basking in the sun. She wasn't aware that this was the day which would change her entire life and, with her, the destiny of millions of people. In all ignorance of future events or even the present ones, Draupadi was busy daydreaming about the pleasant life she had been living.

Her husbands are on the peak of their fame, they have a beautiful house which was a constant source of envy, her sons are growing stronger and brighter everyday and she herself was loving the power which she could wield over her husbands.

They have come for a short sojourn to Hastinapur on invitation and would soon return. She was yearning to go back to her own house. Somehow, she had never felt comfortable here. Still, she tried to divert her mind thinking about pleasanter things while her husbands were busy in the court matters.

Suddenly, she heard commotion outside. She went out to check what was happening and found two male servants had come with a message to her. She delivered strict strictures to those guards and dismissed them without any ceremony. And, went back to the garden.

She did become disturbed. The guards were trying to say something, she realized, but she had turned them off without letting them say a single word!! She wished she had listened to them. Anyways, she turned her attention to the book lying open on the same page since hours.

As soon as she had just got herself engrossed into the page she was reading, Dushasana barges into her presence. She was outraged and questioned his boldness. He informed her about the dice game going on in condescending accents.

He informed her how her husband had staked and lost her and that she was no more than a slave to his brother and he had come to drag her to the court if she doesn't come willingly. She was aghast at this disclosure and tried to reason with him but he started dragging her holding her hair.

And, took her to the court where she entreated all the people present in the court with her pleas and rants and everything she could muster as long as her pride would allow. But, Duryodhana asked Dushasana to disrobe Draupadi so that she could dress like a slave.

And, the first thought which entered her mind was "Shit! I wish I had opted for my hair removal. What will everyone think? A queen doesn't even maintain herself!!".

---

This post is a part of the Gillette Satin Care contest in association with BlogAdda.com

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PS: The last part of the story is a fictionized version of one of the crucial scenes in Mahabharata. It is not meant to make fun of any religious beliefs or hurt anyone personally or even make fun of the seriousness of this scene. It is just an entry for a contest and somehow this idea came to me because I am still in throes of "The Palace of Illusions".

Pee Safe Toilet Sanitizer {Product Review}

Source: peesafe.in

Ok, so when I was talking about bathroom hygiene, I had mentioned that it is a prelude to a product review. And, now, we have this product which is a toilet sanitizer which you can carry anywhere. 

I have delayed its review by quite a long time. It came to me sometime in middle of September but I hardly had the chance to use it to my satisfaction or write the review. And, I most sincerely apologize for the delay.

How many times we see dirty toilets and wish that the place was clean just like our houses, right? Well, this product can be the first step towards that. Okay, at least the hygiene part!!

Now that I went on the trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh last week and traveled to Delhi in the train, I got to use the product to my liking, especially on the Train! The product should be sprayed on the intended object like commodes or taps or door knobs, wait for 5 seconds so that 99.99% germs are killed and then it is safe to be used.

The product claims to kill 99.99% germs. Now, I can not really say that how much percentage of germs are dead by this but let me just say that may be it will help at least with a 50% being very pessimistic. 

Now, the spray is a bit strong so keep away the children when you are doing it. If you have sprayed a deo for 5 seconds, you would know how much gas it releases and how strong it can become. Probably its best to be a little away while spraying so that you do not end up choking. 

Otherwise, its a pretty helpful object which can be used anywhere and it is easy to carry or wrap in a hand towel and at least can give you a mental satisfaction of cleanliness.   

Price : Rs 120

Availability

Website : Safety Kart

 

Have you used any toilet sanitizer till date?

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Nutty Nutty Coconuty!

As part of our heritage, we have many beauty rituals passed down through generations. Let us travel back to the village, Rampur, where women were very particular to adorn and beautify themselves. Coconut was about to be discovered.

In Rampur, the women had tried out every ingredient in their kitchen on their skin and wanted something new. And that was when, Leela and Neel went to an unexplored island to spend a day there. They reached a clearing.

 Neel went in search for some leaves to make a comfortable sitting. He realized that the island was covered with only one kind of tree which was very tall. Being a deft climber, he climbed to where there were fruits and leaves. He collected a lot of leaves and fruits and went back.

The couple created some comfortable seating arrangement and sat down with their food baskets. After their lunch, they decided to play ball using the fruits. But, when Neel threw the fruit, it hit a tree and smashed. The couple found the fruit broken into two and a bit of liquid oozing out.

Quickly, Neel went back to the heap of fruits he had carried previously and broke one. It was white and soft inside and had a bit of the liquid left. Rest had spilled out. Cautiously, he tasted it. Since he wasn't sure it wasn't poisonous, he urged Leela not to take it.

They carried some of the fruits back to the village. The elders of the village were equally ignorant about the fruit so they decided to observe Neel for couple of days before trying the fruit lest it be poisonous. When Neel was absolutely fine after a week, everyone started using the fruit.

The liquid in the fruit was sweet and filling. The white meat tasted equally amazing. Thus, the ladies got a new ingredient to try in their beauty regimes. Every woman now drank the fruit liquid once a day.  It had, already, become the best bridal routine because of the resultant glowing skin.

They used the liquid in their face masks. Oil was extracted from the meat and it became a staple. It was used to treat the injuries and wounds without leaving scars. Women slathered the oil on their bodies. It made the skin really soft and prevented any discoloration.

It healed the scars and blemishes better than their homemade remedies. The older women were particular fans of the oil. It prevented the skin from sagging and wrinkling. The oil kept their eye area soft as well. It also kept the feet soft and prevented cracks.

Oil helped with dark elbows and knees and stretch marks when applied during pregnancy. The skin was no longer that dry and the ladies loved the smell. They also tried using the oil for cooking. Intake of coconut oil helped their skin become more healthy and fresh from the inside.

Thus was found Neelafal named after Neel and Leela. Today its known after its European name, Coconut, but the benefits remain still the same and we still love it as much as those ladies almost 5000 years back.

PS: This is a contest entry and the story is fictional. I have no idea how coconut was discovered so please persevere with me :D

From the Archives : Do you know why is your Skin Dry? {Skin Care}

Revisiting this post and updating it. So, please go through it once again! 

This winter has been particularly dry in the city and after ages of time, I experienced flaky and cracked skin! And, it has been hell for me for the past couple of days! Which made me realize why is my skin reacting in this way!

I have used coconut oil, almond oil, apricot oil, even cocoa butter and the recent DIY - washed ghee. They have all helped a bit but not much! And, then, I recalled that there are actually two types of dry skin - dehydrated and actually dry skin!
  
Do you really know the difference between dry skin and oily skin? Yes, you will say. Dry skin feels stretched and oily skin is like a frying pan. But, ultimately the chemistry of both these types of skin lack some important ingredient which keeps the skin balanced. Either the skin lacks hydration or moisturization. 

Hydration means water and moisturization means oil.

Now, do not confuse the two. A healthy balance of the above two is the key to that perfect skin and solving all the skin issues which plague you. So, let us look at both of the terms with respect to their skin conditions a little closely. 

Why Dry skin?

Skin can be dry for two reasons - it lacks water or the hydration levels of the skin is too less because of the less water consumption by the person, if we cancel out all other factors which lead to dry skin and assume that the person is following healthy skin habits. Also, there is a decrease in the natural skin oils or lipids which create a protective layer over the skin and help keep it moisturised.

So, to counter dry skin, apply both oil and water based moisturizers or you can use different moisturizers having water and oil and layer them. That is what I do. I use aloevera gel first and follow up with a facial oil. Doing just either of these steps will make the skin feel stretchy. Also, a tip is to apply the moisturisers and oils on damp skin.

Also Read: What hydrates our skin?

Which Dry Skin do You have?

So, now, it is up to you to decide which dry skin do you have? In most of the cases, generally the reason for dry skin is dehydration instead of lack of oils!

Drinking More Water does NOT help

Now that you know that your skin is dry due to less water content, I would like to add that drinking up a lot water and herbal tea does not replenish the moisture levels in your skin! The acidic level of the skin and the lipid barrier has been disturbed which is why skin is behaving in the way it is!!

Even Oily skin can be Dehydrated!

Even in oily skin, there is ample of oil but what it really lacks is hydration. Even oily skin can get dehydrated and this dehydration sends mixed signals to the brain which in turn causes skin to produce more oil to counter the missing water from the skin.

Result - even more oily skin but no hydration. So, to counter oily skin, apply water-based moisturizers regularly.

How to Treat this kind of Dehydration?

• Eat a lot of omega 3's - nuts, flax seeds, fish.

• Eat water based fruits! 

• Avoid dry brushing at this time as it can worsen the situation! 

• Avoid hot water baths at ANY cost! Trust me, I am doing the same. 

• Check out the cleanser you are using. Make sure it is mild and is not made of any acids, even salicylic acid! 

• Exfoliate your skin regularly because it will be turning flaky quite a lot! And, always use hydrating scrubs. The best bet would be sugar scrubs. Avoid salt and harsh scrubs at all costs!!

• Apply sunscreen in the morning and follow a stringent skin care routine at night. Use of toners is a good choice! 

Remember that skin will take time to heal!! So, be regular with your skin care routine. And, your skin will improve in 2-3 weeks.

What do you say? Is your skin dry or dehydrated? Does it need more water or oil? And, what are you doing to keep your skin soft this winter?

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Ginger infused Vinegar for Dandruff and Clarifying Hair {DIY}

It has been soooooo long since I have done ANY DIY. This particular recipe was supposed to be published some time in last August but then I totally forgot about it. Now, if you would remember the elaborate hair ritual of Kamini aunty which I had followed, one of her products were ginger tonic. 

I do not claim to know the exact recipe or anything. This was crafted by me and mum after trying to make out what the ginger tonic consisted of. We could only guess at the ingredients. So, proceeding ahead with the DIY, let me first state the ingredients and then explain why it is necessary. 

Ingredients

• Ginger Powder (made at home or from market)
• Vinegar (preferably Apple Cider Vinegar)
• Distilled Water

Method

• Either shred a whole block of ginger at home using the cheese grater or use ginger powder available in the market. 
• When you are shredding the ginger block at home, you would find a lot of juice also comes out. Do not throw it away. 
• Now, take a vinegar bottle. I would suggest you to get Apple Cider Vinegar but then its expensive and not exactly available everywhere so you can go for fruit or non-fruity vinegar as well. Try to buy the ones which come in glass bottles instead of plastic ones. 
• Empty an entire packet of ginger powder or the entire grated ginger block with its juice into the vinegar bottle. 
• Let it infuse for a week in dark. Keep on shaking the bottle in between to speed up the infusion process. 
• After a week, pour half of the vinegar into another bottle. Make sure to include the ginger powder or shreds in both bottles equally. Do not remove or throw them.
• After dividing the vinegar equally in both bottles, pour distilled water in equal quantity (for 50ml of vinegar, pour 50ml of water).

And, your Ginger infused Vinegar is ready!! No, I would not suggest any essential oils with this recipe. Not even the ginger essential oil in place of ginger powder or shreds because I don't know how will vinegar react with the essential oil.

Why to use this?

I have long back mentioned that one of the best ways to deal with dandruff is using vinegar. So, if you have excess of dandruff, apply a table spoon of this infusion every time on your scalp before you wash your hair using a cotton ball and leave it for 20 minutes. 

Make sure to apply this over oiled hair only. Partition your scalp using small sections and saturate your entire scalp with this mixture. This really helps to deal with dandruff and ginger helps stimulate hair follicles as well. If you have oily hair, vinegar will also help control the oil secretion. 

Now, coming to the second part of usage, using various products on the hair causes buildup. So, it is very important to clarify hair in regular intervals to make the hair bouncy and look clean. This infusion helps to clarify the hair as well. 

If you do not have dandruff and do not use excess of products, you can use this infusion once in every two weeks or a month depending on amount of conditioner and leave-in conditioner you use. Saturate your scalp first with this liquid and then apply it on the length of your hair. Keep it for 10 minutes and shampoo.

Storage

Since vinegar does not turn rancid easily, this infusion will keep for months at a time so you can make it in huge quantities as well. If you are really particular, keep it in fridge but do not apply it cold on your scalp. That can create problems if you have sinus issues.

Hope you liked it!! Do try and let me know how it went for you :)

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How often should the bathroom be cleaned? {Your Opinion}

Ok, so, this is a prelude to a product review. Now that I have been living in a house where the maid refuses to do the bathroom due to hygiene issues, it has become a US-like lifestyle where you do all things on your own. Even my mom actually has no maid in the house and she takes care of everything coz the maids are overcharging there in Delhi for the amount of work they do!! 

Anyways as much inconvenient it might be that maids are not cleaning the bathroom, I can really not say anything against it coz if we can not clean our stink ourselves, we have no right to ask it of others! This is one of the reason for the upsurge of so many professional sanitation services these days and they charge absurdly!! Check out on Sulekha if you need one.

So, this brought me straight to the question of how often one should clean the bathroom and second and more personal question of how clean is your bathroom. I might hit on some nerves here and I have no compunction doing that coz I know how it feels to enter a completely unmaintained bathroom. 

My mom is a cleanliness fanatic and even my dad is almost the same. So, every weekend at least, they clean the bathrooms using harpic and lizol or acid or what not and make it spic and span. If necessary, my dad cleans the bathroom more frequently like when relatives are gonna stay. To keep the commodes clean, he also puts a harpic tablet into the flush which runs for at least a week. 

This is what happens at my house where the occupants were three and later two. In my case, I used to get my bathroom cleaned every second day, on an average, even though it was only me using it. And, I have to add this that I did not know that my mom used to keep even the bathroom tiles clean and unmarked unless she came to stay with me and did the same in my bathroom.  

So, now, I have become such a freak that the maids would probably be afraid of the amount of work I will make them do in the bathroom. One concession is that if you get the things done correctly and to your amount of satisfaction in the first go and maintain it regularly thereafter, it is pretty easy to keep up with the same routine.     

So, how often do you clean your bathrooms?

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Rustic Art Organic Hand & Foot Care Lotion {Product Review}

It is often rare to find a product which, though looks simple, actually works. I am a newbie to the blogging scene and Sunita, one of the founders of Rustic Art, was kind enough to actually send me a product for review. 

Thanks for having faith in me and thanks for sending me an amazing product. It was actually perfect for the weather too :-) Let's dive straight into the review. Don't want to keep you all waiting :-)

Price: Rs 450 for 100ml

Ingredients

Apricot oil, organic corn oil, organic aloevera, organic coconut oil, Vegetable Glycerine, Avocado oil, Vitamin E, Soya lecithin, natural borax mineral, Sesame wax, Rose Hydrosol, Essential oil of Geranium, Ylang Ylang, myrrh, E wax.

Pros

Lightweight and non-sticky

Gets absorbed in seconds

Uplifting smell

Reduces dryness and softens skin

80% organic

A vegan product

Handmade with care just for us

My favourite- No animal ingredients or testing

One bottle would last 2-3 months

Pump dispenser gives out perfect amount

Travel- friendly

I love the plastic bottle and the detailing on it

Cons

I could say it's the cost but it justifies the quantity and the time it lasts.

(I would add plastic bottle can be a con, I hope it is Bio-degradable!!)

What the Rustic Art Organic Hand & Foot Care Lotion claims?
Give your hands and feet a pleasant surprise with this vegan lotion especially for them. It is made of goodness of natural moisturizers that will nourish your skin and keep them fragrant.

How to use it?

For better results, apply before going to bed on washed and dried hands and feet.

Shelf Life: 18 months. Store in cool dry place/ refrigerate.

My Experience

It comes in a transparent rectangular bottle with a pump dispenser. Rustic Art has also included a plastic cap for the pump and a good one it is. Generally in other products, the plastic caps are flimsy but this one is tight. I carry it in my handbag and, touchwood, it hasn't spilled :-)

The lotion is white in colour. It's neither too thick nor too runny. It's perfect. Coming to the fragrance, the lotion has some notes of mint. It also smells like amrutanjan. But I love it and I keep sniffing it ;-)

The most driest parts of my body are my feet. I travel by bike constantly and my feet bear the brunt of the weather. I got this lotion 3 weeks ago and I have been using it constantly. I wash my feet with warm water, pat dry them and immediately apply this. 

One pump of this on each foot is enough. Generally foot creams are thick and sticky and make a complete mess of your bed. But this one gets absorbed in seconds. The best part of this is the minty after-effects :-) 

My feet have actually turned softer. The rough patches are no longer there. I also applied it on my elbows for a while and the dryness is gone. Before I forget to mention, though I have been using it daily twice, I have hardly used 20% of it yet. 

So, the quantity totally outweighs the price. This is one such product which looks simple and no-nonsensical but it delivers what it claims.  Yes, I recommend this wholeheartedly. Some might need to use more than 1 pump however.

PS : Product sent by brand

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I had totally forgot to write about this earlier but this is a guest review written by Shruti. So, welcome on board, Shruti :) And, thanks for such a great review!!

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Other products by Rustic Art:
Rustic Art Algae Organic Bathing Soap

Rustic Art Aloevera Gel

Rustic Art Spa and Lotus Organic Bathing Soaps

You might also like:
How to take care of your feet?

New Footwear causing Blisters

From the Archives: #OneMonthtoHealthyHair - Routine Hair Care {Hair Care}

This is my first hair care post which I am reviving it today with some updates! Hope you enjoy it as much as I loved writing it. Feeling nostalgic revisiting the post after 5 years!

My favorite click for my hair diaries!

Hair is one of the first thing which gets noticed when you meet a person. It can create or destroy one's personality. It can make a plain person beautiful. Whenever you meet or come across someone with beautiful long hair, did you ever find yourself wishing you had that hair!

There are very simple rules for a good hair care which MUST be done consistently so as to ensure it looks amazing!!

Hair undergoes major changes three times in a woman's life: puberty, child birth and menopause. Apart from that, it is said that our Hair undergoes texture change every seven years. Now, who knew that?

Regular Care Tips

• Love your locks as they are. Do not compare them with others. Every person's hair is different.

• Use only those products which suit your hair. Do not get diverted by nice campaigns or beautiful packaging. Price of the products does not determine its worthiness. 

• Do not tease your hair or put any pressure on it unnecessarily. Try not to use brush as much as possible. Use a wide-tooth comb. Brushing puts unnecessary strain on hair. If you want to use a brush, use a natural bristles brush. Also, avoid tying the hair at the same place everyday. And, keep changing your hair part regularly. 

• Use satin or silk pillows while sleeping. Do not sleep with open hair. Braid your hair loosely.  Or, tie your hair with a satin or silk scarf. It also helps preventing the wrinkles and drying of the skin at night.

• Drink water regularly. Hair comprises of 95% proteins and 5% water.

• Take beauty sleep of 7-8 hours regularly. 

• Take proper nutrition. Do not let your body be deficient in any of the vitamins or minerals. And, increase your protein intake. This is extremely useful when you are trying to grow out your hair!!

• Ok, this is my favourite!! I love a good head massage. Oil your hair regularly. It gives natural conditioning to your hair. Use organic and cold-pressed oils. Heat destroys the benefits of the oils. Mix various oils to get as many benefits as possible. Hot oil treatments are very useful in improving the hair condition. 

• Scalp Care. Keep the scalp clean. Wash your hair whenever you feel your hair is dirty. Remember to use mild shampoo. Use a conditioner after shampooing your hair.

• Use various home remedies for deep conditioning treatments. They take time to work but if used regularly, keep your hair free of chemicals and keep them in better condition naturally and for longer time.

• Exercise and massage your scalp regularly for beautiful hair.

So, follow these steps and enjoy happy hair :) And, do not forget to join us in the #OneMonthtoHealthyHair event starting on 1st March - 31st March. Sign up for the event here!

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Tip of the Day

I love winters probably coz it gives me more reasons to cuddle :) Well, in winters the only thing irritates me is dry skin. So my mommy gave me a tip, which she read in some newspaper. So, here is the tip.

Take half banana add 2spoon of olive oil & blend/mash it. Add some drops of lemon.

This will reduce dryness & gives a glowing skin as well. Instead of lemon you can also use some other citrus fruits which might be less acidic in nature like oranges. [Check out this post in which I discuss the pH levels of all citrus fruits]

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Thanks Punam for such a wonderful tip :) Btw, you might also want to check this amazing product reviewed by Punam.

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Soulflower Grapeseed Oil {Product Review}

I have been using this oil since quite long. Earlier I had been using it just for the hair as a leave-in serum but in December and Jan, I had been using it as a moisturizer as well. So, how did this work out?

Ok, let me first talk about the texture of this oil. Grapeseed is supposed to be one of the best oils for the oily skin because of its lightness. Thus, it works amazingly as a leave-in serum without weighing the hair down. I had also put couple of drops of rosemary essential oil into the oil.

Since my hair is dry in texture, I can say it worked fantastically for me and there were lesser hair splits than normal. Just a drop or two of the oil rubbed on the palm and finger tips helps control the dryness of the scalp and hair!! And, it also helps with controlling dandruff and stimulates hair growth which was my main motivation to buy it!!

Regarding how it works on skin, I used it in the months of winter so it was absorbed quickly into the skin. And, needless to say, it was quite non-greasy and it did keep my skin moisturized all the time. In the harsher winters, one might need a layer of another moisturizer to keep the skin from drying but for Hyderabad, this oil sufficed quite well.

Also, I have noticed now that I have stopped using the oil, my skin has become dull. I have not been using sunscreen since almost three months and this oil had protected my skin quite well against the sun damage. My skin was bright enough and did not look dry or aged. But, now it has started looking a bit like that and the lines under the eyes have deepened as well. So, yes, it does protect the skin pretty well.

Price : Rs 350 for 30ml

Have you used this oil? Did you like it?

Related Posts:
Kama Ayurveda Rose Jasmine Bath & Body Oil
Biotique Bio Clove Purifying Anti-blemish Face Pack for oily & acne prone skin
Vaadi Herbals Amla Thanda (Cool) Tail (Oil)

What do you love about Yourself? {Your Opinion}

Ok, so, today, I want to talk to you about the good things in life :) This was the post put up by Tine on her blog first and then Paris did a post on it few days back. We all find something or the other to criticize in our features or body or any physical attributes. But, what do you actually love about yourself?

My answer would be my eyes. Nah, they are just plain looking and small but they are milky clear and glow with all the charm when I am happy. Problem is they are hidden always behind the lens but I am not complaining :D

And, I love my skin because it is definitely less problematic. But, my hair is an issue which will stay for life long. But, even then, I love it the way it is :) Oh that reminds me to inform you that I am skipping the hair diary post this month as December was not exactly any path breaking. 

So, what about you? I am waiting to hear from you :) Share what you love about yourself quickly!!

Related Posts:
Love Thy Self
Be Yourself

Its Just Life Vol. 4 - Let us Uncomplicate!

So, if you have read my blogging goals for the current year, you would already know that professional blogging has made my life pretty complicated!! I have lost the focus on blogging by becoming a full time blogger. The focus had shifted to making the blog self-sustainable. And, reading a whole lot about it became just too much for me!

It was like being bombarded by do this and do that and this would not work and that would not work. You know internet is a pretty negative place if you really do not know what you want!

This entire exercise made me lose interest in writing! And, that was BAD. You should really be selective about what information you consume. Let's start!

1. Clear Your Mind

You really need to be selective about what you let sit in your mind. There is so much of everything happening around and you really can not help thinking about everything. So, chuck everything from your mind. 

If you have ever worked in any company, you would know that quite a lot of people prefer freshers. No, not because of lesser salary but because of lesser experience. A mind with a clean slate can be moulded in anyway you want. Where as a mind with certain principles of its own will never react the way you want it to. 

The same principle works here as well. The assumptions you make, the impressions on your mind, the thoughts you have, everything leaves your mind in a turmoil. And, when this gets too much, generally in the cases of a lot of emotional drama in your life, you tend to feel insane! 

A good step to avoid such situations is to clear your mind. Stay away from the things which disturb you. And, if that is not possible, create situations which help you stay away. 

For example, when staying at home became too much for me to bear, I started staying back longer in the office. I have always been a girl who loves to go home as early as possible but this step made my life simpler! 

This is just an example but you get the idea so work on it!

2. Work on your Body!

As important as it is to keep your mind calm, it is equally important to keep your body fit. More exercise means more endorphins which are happiness hormones. So, you stay happy, irrespective of the situations! And, it builds your confidence and self-esteem. So, yes, work out or take it gradually - go for a walk daily! 

3. Focus on what is important and discard everything else!

This is more or less a variant of #1. But, what I want to say here is that always prioritize what you want. Think of the larger picture, not of today but one year down the line then five years down the line and then about how you want your whole life to be. And, work towards that goal. 

Remove the negative thoughts which hamper your ability and productivity. Remove all the drama which involves you. Avoid situations or simply walk out. Do what you think is best!! But, make sure you are not travelling in two boats at the same time. That will make your life worse. So, have one goal and travel only in one boat towards that goal. 

For example, I want to build this blog. I did not want to work so I left my job. You bet everyday I listen so much from everyone and yes it is quite depressing sometimes. But, then, when I think about the blog, nothing else matters! Yes, there are other goals but my primary goal is blogging and I shall achieve other goals through this.

Watch out for every depressing thought. 

Few days back, I received an email from one of the reader's who asked me to write about emotional health. So, this is a trial from my side on the topic. I am trying to align the series to my moods so that it is easy for me to pen them down. Hope you like it!!

Now, I am feeling overwhelmed so let me just practice these three tips for the week and I shall get back to you with new ones sometime next week. And, do not forget to share what do you think of these new series? Looking forward to hearing from you!

Other posts you might have missed:
Blogging Series Vol. 19 - Blogging Goals for #2015!!
Just Gossip Vol. 25 - The Year 2013!
Its Just Life Vol. 3 - Not all things happen for the good!!

Parsley, Egg, & Honey Face Mask {Guest Post}

Most people see parsley as a simple garnish, but its nutrients and health benefits go beyond just decorating your food. Parsley, when applied to the skin, helps reduce fine lines, small scars, blemishes, and pore size. How can this simple plant be so helpful? 

Parsley supplies your skin with essential Vitamins A, C, and E. Vitamin A works hard to fight past skin damage, in addition to speeding the cell renewal process which creates a healthy glow. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and is necessary to produce collage, which helps with skin elasticity. Vitamin E also acts as an antioxidant that protects and repairs your skin as well as can help protect against premature skin aging.

Parsley can be found in your local grocery store, but if you are interested in growing your own parsley, it is a useful plant that can grow well both indoors and outdoors when given the right amount of sunlight, rich soil, and care.

The other ingredients in this recipe are great when applied to your skin as well. Egg yolks can reduce the appearance of pores, acne, and make skin glow and reveal its softness. Honey acts as a skin softener and has natural antioxidants and anti-microbial properties that help protect your skin from past sun damage.

Together these ingredients will help your face feel softer, more radiant, and smooth. Here are the ingredients measurements you will need and step by step instructions to successfully make this all-natural parsley face mask. Enjoy!

Note:  If pregnant, avoid consuming large amounts of parsley.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp of finely chopped parsley
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon (optional)

Note: Lemon is a natural astringent so use with caution if you have sensitive skin. You might want to check out this post which compares the pH levels of all citrus fruits.

Method

• Finely chop the parsley with either a knife or use a food processor
• Add one egg yolk to the mixture
• Add 1 tbsp of honey and 1 tsp of lemon, if desired
• Mix ingredients well
• Using a basting brush, apply mask over entire face, avoiding the eyes
• Let sit for 20 minutes
• Wash away with warm water and pat face dry 

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About the Author : Roxanne Nichols is a staff writer for LawnCare, an online resource for lawn care and gardening tips, resources, and tools. She is very involved with her garden at home and loves to share her in-depth knowledge and tips she’s learned along the way. 

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Just Gossip Vol. 27 - Tidbits!

I realize that I have become very voluble in this year. So, let me just finish this week's gossip quota.

1. Last 3 days since Wednesday were a torture in Delhi. It was so cold.
2. Caught cold and Hyderabad is so hot!!!
3. Went to Haridwar and Rishikesh after 1992-93. So much commercialization!
4. Got new frame (spectacles), finally!!! I searched for it so much still didn't get a red one.
5. Finally watched Despicable Me 2 in the flight!
6. Bought a wallet in World of Titan only so thanks a lot for the tip :)
7. I realized that a little order in the house can work wonders on how your day goes!
8. I have still not taken out time to reply to the comments or the mails. I have not checked my mails since ages so please do not feel like I am ignoring. 

What about you? How did your week progress?

Related Posts:

Just Gossip Vol. 26 - I am off to Delhi!
Just Gossip Vol. 25 - The Year 2013!
Just Gossip Vol. 24 - What's up with me these days?

Weekend Gossip Vol. 2 - What special you did this week?

Me? I went to Inkaar. Read its review here. And, what's more? By the time you would be reading this post (assuming you are not a night owl and reading it at 12:00 AM :D), I would be on the way to Guwahati. Yup, on a long office trip. This is my first so I am damn excited and damn nervous. 

Ok, I know Guwahati might sound a bit strange going on work. But, I am dying to go there. Have heard that the place is damn beautiful and all. So, yup, this is the first acid test for my camera as well :D And, on the way back I am dropping off at Delhi for couple of days..yay!!

My Saturday would be all packing and chaotic. Gosh, its a long trip, after all. And, this is the first time I would be packing everything. Otherwise, when I go home, I carry only bits and pieces. Btw, I would be doing a post on travel beauty kit packing though sans makeup.

Anyways, you tellos :) Oh ya, we also had a team lunch as a farewell at Over the Flames in Gachibowli. Yup, its a place worth trying out if you like Italian. But, be prepared for more Italian flavor than the Indianized taste :D And, yeah, also check out Veg. Rizo at KFC.

What about you? How was your week? Did you do anything special?

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Is the spilled boiling milk good omen?
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Blogging Series Vol. 19 - Blogging Goals for #2015!!

Well, I have to say that since I have taken full time blogging, it has been feeling overwhelming! Being a professional blogger increases the commercial interests and that has made me lose focus on what made me start blogging in the first place! It was like reading all about blogging except writing - you know do this, do that and do what not and avoid this and this would not work out and the list is endless. Whew!

So, I thought it would be good to realign myself with what and why of the blog before proceeding to do anything! This past week has been a silent one - first with the festival frenzy and then with all of this thinking. And, finally, I have decided to start with a clean slate. So, let us check what all we have in store for #2015.

#1. Realigning the purpose and goals of the Blog

I remember why I had started this blog. It was to share my knowledge on how to take care of skin and hair using simple home remedies which were easy on the pocket and equally effective. So, budget was one of the mantras at that time. I was studying and I really did not intend to spend much.

While writing about skin and hair, delving into healthy lifestyle was inevitable. So, there were and are a lot of articles about simpler lifestyle and healthy habits which if integrated with daily habits would be one step closer to leading a healthy life. 

Then, we delved into product reviews and I discovered and worked with a lot of brands - good and bad - and recommended some of them to you. And, then, we stopped evolving!

Worse still, I had almost abandoned the blog for one year during my wedding and I am sure it must have upset you to not find any new content on the blog for weeks and months together!

And, let me tell you getting back to blogging is really not easy! In these past few months, I had so much trouble churning out new articles. It was almost like I was forcing myself to write and that is what I want to avoid!! So, writing better content without forcing myself is a goal this time. And, as you might have known, I have reduced the frequency of posting as well to help me in this goal. So, you would find articles every alternate day!

#2. Weekly Chats!

I have already had two weekly chat sessions this year and now I am planning the third this weekend sometime. But, the problem is that this weekend and the next one are the birthday times for us. So, it might be a leetle-bit difficult to accommodate it these two weeks.

Actually, the problem with these sort of chats is that I am putting them on facebook and not everyone wants to be publicly involved in it. And, then, both the chats were in the noon time on a working day so that also made impossible for some people to attend it. So, I have to think of a way around it!! Let us see what I come up with.

#3. #OneMonthtoHealthyHair Event

Now, this is a real experiment I am doing. Well, this is a one month event starting on 1st March, 2015 to 31st March, 2015. March is the starting of summer and as you already know hair grows better in the warmer months. So, I am holding this event for all the beauties with dry, rough and damaged hair who want a better hair.

In this one month, we all will follow a defined hair care regime which I shall obviously post about and at the end of each week, we shall compare the progress. Also, included are discussions on various hair issues and problems everyday of the month. So, yes, it is a packed month!! And, there would be giveaways and other fun contests included as well. So, do join in! Check out the event facebook page.

I am also planning to release and ebook after the event. So, fingers crossed!!

#4. #DidYouKnow Series on facebook

I have started a new branded graphics #DidYouKnow. Including one of them here.

#5.Change in the flow of posts - More Topics

If you have ever noticed, my blog has always been aligned to my life's flow so more of new topics specially on baby planning and pregnancy and all those things will be coming up. Yes, parenting would be a part of the blog once we become one! No, there is no good news on the cards right now. Hope you would like the new topics as well!

So, these are the top things on my mind right now! And, yup, I want to share a secret - I am working on a project right now and I am extremely excited about it. Okay, I am building up the suspense here so keep it going till I announce about it! Hopefully, it should be soon enough.

Related Posts:

Blogging Series Vol. 18 - Why is it so wrong to make money from a blog?

Blogging Series Vol. 17 - Where do you compose your posts from?

Blogging Series Vol. 16 - Are you setting up goals for 2014?

Weekend Gossip Vol. 1 - Inkaar - Sexual Harassment or play of Emotions?

*May have spoilers*

I watched Inkaar yesterday evening. Movie is around 2 hours long. To start with, I totally love Arjun Rampal and Chitrangda Singh for their acting skills, looks don't really lag behind either in my like list. The lady is really hot. 

And, the promos show that the movie is about sexual harassment. Honestly, it didn't really feel so. Yes, there was corporate politics and other issues but the basic premise of the movie was emotions and perspectives and how things look different to different genders. 

The movie starts with the case itself and the flashbacks go on but they are unobtrusive and take you very gently into the lives of the protagonists. You can feel the pain of a scorned love and you can also feel the helplessness of unnamed relationships. 

You would enjoy every second of the movie. The cinematography is satisfying and editing is crisp. Could have done some bits even more tighter but I am not exactly complaining. The best part of the movie for me was the climax which was very apt and could have been NOT A BIT better. 

Ok, let me talk about looks a bit. The lady is looking super hot in all scenes as usual and I like her hair styles in it. The dude is, as usual, suave and debonair. Also, in the movie, something which you should not miss are the backgrounds of the scenes. They have most hilarious and quirky quotes on the walls, especially, in the toilets :D 

Have you watched the movie? Do share your thoughts and reviews on the movie :)