MILLESIMAL MAY 2023

THE UNCONVENTIONAL BEAUTY

Himanee Bhatia

Editor’s Note

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Editor-in-Chief SEJAL AGGARWAL

"Yourwindowto aworldof inspiration."

Himanee Bhatia is an Indian actor, model, author, former lawyer and ex-KPMG risk consultant. She is best known for her performance in short films like Act Normal, Blink, Roomates, Khat and My Brown Eyed Boy. In 2021, Bhatia has worked in a Netflix’s web series Decoupled starring R Madhavan and Surveen Chawla. She was noticed instantly for her unique beauty and acting style She is often called one of the most versatile and real actresses, as all her characters have been different, and is considered one of the most beautiful actresses and promising new faces in the film industry.

At what age did you realise that you want to join the entertainment industry?

I knew I wanted to act when I was a 4 year old, and I used to say famous dialogues infront of my Nani, who was very unwell.. seeing her smile was when i realised. Today movies are being released on OTT platforms, while some may prefer the old-style theatre release for their big-budget movies. What future and success do you think OTT has in store?

I think OTT is the way to go. After 2020 until now, there are very few films which are doing well on the big screen as everyone has used to watching films and webseries at home. And i feel that this is here to stay.

The entertainment industry is said to be full of stress and pressure; what do you do to tackle the pressure that comes with your work?.

There is a very famous quote from the Bhagwad Gita which says"Karma kiye jao, phal ki chinta mat karo." Which literally means, Do your karma, don't worry about the result."

The entertainment industry is very unpredictable and full of highs and lows. I have been confirmed for projects and been replaced the next day or projects have got shelved. Earlier it used to really make me low, but over the years I've realised that what's meant for you will never miss you, so do your best.

What inspired you to write, tell us something about your book "ten fireflies"?

My favourite subjects in school were acting and creative writing- ever since I was a child I used to write short stories and enact them. When 2020 happened, all my projects were at a halt. I felt helpless and was very low as I had joined the industry in August 2019, which was just 6 months before the lockdown.

I gave alot of self test auditions and used to write short stories and poetry to get my creative energy out, as I love writing. Infact my first short film, 'Act Normal' was written and acted by me.

I started writing poetry in 2020, which have now released as 'Radiance', which is English poetry and 'Saanjh Savere' which is Hindi poetry.

Ten Fireflies I wrote in 2021, in just 3 months. I always wanted to write a story about siblings, young people and lots of comedy, drama and romance. My inner creativity inspired me to write.

Talking about making it big in Bollywood, the word ‘nepotism’ is up for debate. There’s a lot of buzz of being an insider and outsider in the film industry, and many big celebrities have called out on being treated differently. Did you have your own share of struggles in the industry?

Yes I definitely did. After winning so many awards and doing so much work, I am still treated as an upcoming actress' whereas people from a film family does maybe one project and is treated as an accomplished actress. The way we are looked at is totally different.I have been replaced from 2 projects by very popular starkids but don't wish to reveal who they are.

And many a times, producers don't want to invest in us until we become an A lister, while they are ready to invest and produce a film with a certain actor's son/daughter.

Many a times we are told our looks don't fit the character and we can't audition, however I have seen many roles go to actors from film families who's look doesn't match either but with the right make up and acting they are casted. I wish we would get a chance like this as well.

What does the future look like for you? What kind of roles would you want to do in the coming times? Tell us about your upcoming project?

As I wrote in my book, Ten Fireflies, Sheena , one of the 3 siblings , whose character is based on me, says-

'Who knows what the future holds for us? So let's just live today completely , fully and wildly'.

So, the future isn't mine to see. However , I can tell you a little about what's upcoming - Two music videos to be shot in London and Japan, a south film which marks my debut , and a show for Zee5 Besides these I have a few more projects coming up which at the moment I can't reveal. My dream roles are-An army officer, a character from a historical drama, a policewoman , a DJ , and a gangster.

"Who knows what the future holds for us? So let's just live today completely , fully and wildly' "

Natural and sustainable beauty

Written by Aida Rejzovic

In recent years, the beauty industry has seen a shift towards natural and sustainable products, as more and more consumers become aware of the impact that their choices have on the environment. From natural skin care to reef-friendly sunscreen, there are many options available for those who want to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Sustainable beauty is more than just a trend—it's a lifestyle. And we're all about it.

In the beauty industry, sustainability means using products that are made of ingredients derived from nature and not tested on animals. It also means using packaging that is recyclable and environmentally friendly.

that?

It's not just what your products are made of (though that's important), it's also how you use them. When you Choose Sustainable products, you're choosing to keep our planet healthy and clean. And who doesn't love

natural skin care

Natural skin care is a growing trend. It's also a really good idea.

The market for natural skin care has been growing at a rapid pace over the past several years, and it's not hard to see why. People are waking up to the fact that they don't have to put chemicals on their face or body in order to look good, feel good, and smell good.

Natural skin care products often contain fewer ingredients than traditional cosmetics, which means that they're less likely to irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. They also tend to be more effective because they don't have any harmful ingredients in them and when you think about it, it makes sense! If you use something that's made from plants or fruit instead of chemicals and artificial ingredients, then there's no reason why it wouldn't work just as well (if not better).

Natural skin care is all about using products that are made from natural ingredients, such as plant extracts and oils. These products are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can irritate the skin and cause long-term damage. Instead, they focus on nourishing and hydrating the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

Some popular natural skin care ingredients include:

Aloe vera: known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can help to reduce inflammation and redness.

Coconut oil: rich in fatty acids, coconut oil can help to moisturise and protect the skin.

Chamomile: known for its calming properties, chamomile can help to soothe irritated skin.

natural makeup

In the world of cosmetics, there is no shortage of options for women who want to cover up their imperfections or highlight their best features. But with so many options and so many chemicals, it can be hard to choose what's right for your skin.

Luckily, there are natural makeup options that are just as effective and beautiful as their chemical-laden counterparts. Natural makeup is made with all-natural ingredients, meaning that it doesn't contain any artificial colours or preservatives. And because it's free from those icky chemicals that cause irritation and breakouts, it's a great way to get the coverage you want without compromising your skin!

Natural makeup is all about using products that are made from natural ingredients, such as plant extracts and minerals. These products are free from synthetic dyes and fragrances that can irritate the skin and cause long-term damage. Instead, they focus on enhancing your natural beauty, while still providing coverage and protection.

sustainable beauty

Natural and sustainable beauty is all about the power of nature, and how we can use it to our advantage. It's about using natural ingredients to make products that are good for our bodies and for the environment.

But what does it really mean to be sustainable? To me, it means using natural ingredients that don't harm the earth or its creatures. These products are made from sustainable materials and are produced using ethical practices that minimise their impact on the environment.

It also means being careful with packaging you want your products to be easy on the planet so they can stay there long after you're gone! Now, what does this mean in practice? Well, it depends on what kind of product you're looking for. For example, if you're looking for a lipstick, consider buying one made with ingredients like shea butter instead of petroleum jelly because shea butter is better for your health and won't harm animals who might have been involved in its production. You can also look for lipsticks with metal tubes instead of plastic ones since metals are more recyclable than plastics and won't pollute our waterways as much when they get thrown away (they'll just be recycled!).

Some popular sustainable beauty practices include:

Using refillable or reusable packaging to reduce waste. Choosing products that are produced using renewable energy sources.

Supporting brands that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint.

What does ‘reef friendly’ mean?

Reef friendly sunscreens are a great way to protect yourself from the sun and support the ocean at the same time.

When you go to the beach, you want to make sure to use sunscreen that will protect you from harmful UV rays and keep your skin safe from getting burned. But did you know that some sunscreens have ingredients that can harm our oceans?

In order to be labelled as "reef friendly," a sunscreen must contain no oxybenzone, octinoxate or parabens. These ingredients can harm coral reefs in two ways: First, they can cause coral bleaching by damaging its DNA; second, they can prevent new coral from forming when they wash off into the ocean. Reef-friendly sunscreens are a much better option for protecting yourself while also helping protect our oceans!

Reef-friendly beauty products are designed to minimize their impact on the ocean and marine life. These products are free from harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs and other marine ecosystems.

Some popular reef-friendly beauty products include:

Sunscreens that are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs.

Makeup products that are free from microbeads, which can also harm marine life.

Cruelty-free beauty

Cruelty-free beauty is not only a hot topic in the world of cosmetics, but it's also a growing movement. Many people don't even realise that animal testing is still happening in their everyday lives, and it's something we need to change.

Fortunately for us all, there are plenty of cruelty-free alternatives available and more coming out all the time! Some companies even have entire lines dedicated to being 100% vegan and cruelty-free like Sassy Organics, but others offer limited options or just one or two products that fit these criteria. The good news is that even if your favourite brand isn't completely cruelty-free yet (or ever!), there are still plenty of ways to find products that don't involve animals getting hurt.

Animal testing is one of the most common ways that products are tested before they hit shelves. It's also a practice that many companies deny using—but they do.

Cruelty-free beauty products are made without testing on animals. These products are produced using ethical practices that do not harm animals or their habitats.

Some popular cruelty-free beauty brands include:

Zuii Organic: a popular brand that is committed to using natural ingredients and avoiding animal testing.

Ere Perez: a brand that specializes in natural makeup and skin care products that are free from animal testing.

What can you do?

Sustainable beauty is a movement that's gaining momentum. It's about choosing products that are good for the environment, your health and wellbeing, and for the people who make them. But what does it mean to be sustainable? And how can you make sure you're making sustainable choices when it comes to your beauty routine?

Here are a few tips to get you started:

INTERVIEW WITH CHHAVI SHIVAM, THE FOUNDER OF LICENSE TO BAKE

CHHAVI SHIVAM SHARES HER CHHAVI SHIVAM SHARES HER ENTREPRENURIAL JOURNEY BEHIND ENTREPRENURIAL JOURNEY BEHIND BUILDING " LICENSE TO BAKE" BUILDING " LICENSE TO BAKE"

What inspired you to start License to Bake and how did you get started in the industry?

I started License to Bake in Patna because this city is my hometown and whenever I would come home, I would have very limited options when it came to cakes and pastries. I have a sweet tooth and could resonate with the plight of people like me who craved for more than what the market had to offer.The reason I started baking in the first place is out of my love to feed people

The joy on their faces makes me extremely happy. I started off with experimenting on cakes and cookies and fed it to my friends and family. Everyone appreciated it so much and urged me to do it professionally. There was no looking back from there

Can you describe your creative process while developing new recipes?

The creative process of coming up with new recipes is based on the formula of desire creating a demand. So, basically, almost a decade back when I was in Pune, we wouldn’t get as many flavours of cake as we do today. And I was a big time Ferrero Rocher fan. So when I started baking, I tried incorporating that into my chocolate cakes. Eventually I tried experimenting the core flavour of Ferrero Rocher which comes from hazelnut on cookies as well. This way a new recipe was developed.

"licenseto _ bake”

What challenges have you faced as a bakery owner, and how have you overcome them?

Price has been one major issue. People in Patna are not willing to shell more money than the market rate for the same type of cake for example, not realising that a home baker makes to order with the finest ingredients without compromising on hygiene. As a result of this the prices tend to be higher than the market where large scale production happens with relatively inexpensive ingredients. For example, a lot of bakeries I know still use compound chocolate instead of couverture whereas the former is a very unhealthy alternative to the latter but is way cheaper. This is primarily due to lack of consumer awareness. Also, there isn’t a market for a variety of pastry and bakery items as is there in metropolitan cities which makes it a creatively stifling process. Also the cost of sourcing the finest raw materials is quite high due to the presence of only a handful of suppliers. In fact, a very basic ingredient in baking for eg. unsalted butter is not available in Patna even now and I had to source it from outside.

What is your signature product and what sets it apart from others?

Hazelnut cookie is my signature product that has been approved and appreciated by all the customers who have had it so far and have come back for more. The recipe has been developed by me through trial and error. The characteristic taste of this cookie is not something you’ll find anywhere and that is what I feel makes it stand out. Apart from it Biscoff cheese cake is also loved by clients here.

ART OF LIFE AND CURIOSITY

Writer : By Mairead Ashcroft

The power of engaging with creative arts processes can help people experiencing traumatic events, to calm their central nervous systems, improve mental health, and improve wellness?

Working on your wellness is an art that involves practice like any other skill. In the beginning we might discover that we are getting in our own way of living a fulfilling life. It can be very easy to allow the inner critic to slip into our heads and tell us that we are “Not good enough”. Well, this might come as news to you, but we are all vulnerable and very much human. This means that get stuff wrong, lose our cool and feel sorry for ourselves at times. We may have learned to compare ourselves to others when we were children and still hang onto past beliefs and behaviours. We might find that we are never satisfied with certain elements of life or ourselves, and can’t let go of searching for the unattainable, perfection. Perfection is a trap faced by many people who have experienced trauma in their life, particularly in early life when our brains were still in the developmental stage. We may tell ourselves that we are at fault for what has happened to us or around us because we were not good enough, not perfect. We may try to correct the past but like perfection, this too is impossible and an unhealthy expectation.

For over a decade, I have been integrating curiosity into my counselling and art therapy practice. When we replace judgment with curiosity, we enable new insights, we break unhelpful patterns of thought and behaviour and gain understandings from new perspectives. This allows us to build empathic responses for others and ourselves, leading to higher self-esteem, healthier relationships, healthier boundaries and better mental health and wellness.

A great way to tap into our curiosity is to engage with creative processes. I can hear some say, “But I’m not creative.Creativity is a waste of time.” There is a good chance that you are engaging in creative processes every day without even noticing

Being creative is no more than engaging with everyday experience in more imaginative ways. To use creativity as a therapeutic tool, we must also pay attention to all aspects of our experience with curiosity, not judgment. Remember, when we replace judgment with curiosity, we enable new insights, we break unhelpful patterns of thought and behaviour and gain understandings from new perspectives. In times of stress, we can often go through the motions of life and not recall moments of time. This is called dissociation. It is as if we leave our bodies for a period of seconds, minutes, hours, and in extreme cases, years. Our brain protects us by taking breaks from traumatic events and stressful feelings. This is helpful and important to our well-being and in preventing overwhelm, unless you are driving a car, responsible for children or in an important meeting etc. Dissociation can become a troubling experience when undergoing long term stressful events. It is very important to seek support from a qualified counsellor for support for any mental health experience that lasts for more than two weeks.

How can we find relief from the emotions that arise from trauma and stress to calm our central nervous systems and still be engaged with the world around us. Paying attention while mindfully creating with intention through journalling, drawing, writing, moving to music, engaging with craft, cooking, gardening, or exploring ways to bring creativity into our daily tasks, can be a healing practice, preventing us from just going through the motions. It is very helpful to not judge our emotions as good or bad when they arise. When we judge our emotions as good or bad, that judgment will most likely set our mood. By that I mean, if we call our emotion bad, then we will probably feel bad. We create what we think. Our emotions are no more than messages telling us that something needs attention. When we notice a challenging emotion arise, slow breathing helps to slow our autonomic, or automatic nervous system.

Our autonomic nervous system controls the bodily functions that we don’t need to consciously think about, like digestion, urination, heartbeats, sweating hormone function and breathing. When we are experiencing stress, it is the autonomic nervous system that kicks into gear, preparing us for flight, fight, freeze or fawn. We may wish to run away, fight danger, freeze in one spot affectively playing dead or fawn, try to get on an attacker’s good side to avoid threat. These are all important survival tactics unless we are sitting in a stressful meeting or being triggered by a traumatic experience.

Breathing is part of the autonomic nervous system, but it is a function that we can also consciously control. Slowing our breathing overrides the rest of the nervous system, tricking it into thinking that the crisis is over, re-regulating our nervous system. This is why it is important to learn and practice breathing techniques to maintain wellness.

I underwent an extremely testing trial involving years of stress and trauma, strong emotions and body responses like headaches, sore stomach and muscle aches and pains. Throughout this time, I carried a notebook, coloured pens and a pencil with me wherever I went. When I noticed my body and mind beginning to react to stressful events, I would quietly take a few deep breaths, pick up my pencil and draw my emotions and different elements of the situation. Not only did this help me to relieve stress, process emotions and reduce body aches and pains during the event, it also assisted my recall of important points made during the trial, as if I had taken notes. This freed my mind to go on with my day once I walked out the door and entered the world (in most cases).

How does this work? According to research using art therapy with CombatRelated PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), “Art Therapy awakens emotion. In this way, it can directly address emotional numbing, including the numbing of positive emotions.” (David Spiegel, Cathy Malchiodi, Amy Backos, Kate Collie) By processing my emotions in a controlled way, as they happened, rather than trying to shut them down, I was able to leave each event without feeling strung out, or worried about the next event. I am as vulnerable and human as everyone else, and there were times when I cracked under pressure. Resiliency and my ability to experience my humanness without judgment enabled me to rest, recover, and keep going until the courts put my childhood sexual abuser in jail. I have since written and illustrated a mental health and wellbeing book, Art of Life and Curiosity, using many of the art works that I created while sitting in courts, police stations and lawyers’ offices.

So, how might you incorporate creativity into your everyday experience in more imaginative ways with the aim of improving your wellness? Here are some examples that you might like to try. Open your imagination and explore the possibilities.

Take photos of nature that survives against the odds. E.g., the weed that blooms through concrete. Create a photo board and frame them.

Add personal touches to your clothes, desk, car, bike etc. that express your personality. Cook an international dish, play music from that country, add a splash of colour to represent the country. Have fun in your home by personalizing it with things that you are passionate about. e.g., candles, your own abstract artwork, coloured scarves

Play as if no one is watching. There is a good chance that no one is. E.g., sit on a swing, play in the sand, learn to juggle, create a dress-up box and play characters.

Feel the sun, rain, wind on your skin. Does it have a smell, taste, does it remind you of something? Write a few words or a poem about it.

Dance to the sounds in your environment. e.g., the washing machine, birds singing, children laughing, the rumble of traffic, the knocking hammer.

We are all vulnerable. Nurture that vulnerable side of yourself with kindness and compassion. You are unique, one of a kind. Be your best self for you, whatever that might be. Above all, have some fun. Life can have its challenges, but it is also full of joy and awesome experiences.

MAY2023EDITION

Unveiling

Skincare Secrets:

A Candid Conversation with Dermatologist

DR. SWATI MUTHA

Tell us a bit about yourself and your career to date?

I am Dr. Swati Mutha, a dermatologist specialized in both aesthetic and clinical consultations. I have been practicing for the past 12 years and have been associated with Assure for the last four years. Prior to that, I worked with Dr. Kohli in Mumbai for eight years. My area of expertise is focused on hair, particularly on hair growth, hair thinning, and procedures such as PRPs and hair transplants.

How to choose the right sunscreen?

When selecting a sunscreen, it's important not to solely rely on the SPF rating as SPF 100 doesn't necessarily equate to better protection than SPF 30. Instead, consider whether the sunscreen is physical or chemical based. For more effective protection, choose a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

What would you tell your patients about the importance of good skin health and prevention at all phases of life?

In my honest opinion, skincare is not just about using a multitude of treatments and applications. It's about taking care of your health from the inside, which can make a greater impact than using numerous products. It's not only necessary to care for your skin as you age or when you have skin problems, but it's a part of your overall body care.

Since the skin is the largest organ of the body, it's crucial to have a proper routine to maintain it, just like with other organs. Basic steps like cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen are important, and you should choose the right products based on your skin's needs. Additionally, I believe that exercise and a healthy diet are equally vital from the beginning.

I advise my patients that exercise is not just for those who are overweight, but it should be a mandatory part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth and taking a shower. Exercise has numerous benefits for both your skin and overall health. It's essential to get eight hours of sleep every day and eat a healthy diet as well

What are the big skincare concerns that clients are coming to you with at the moment?

To be truthful, hair has gained significant importance in the last five years. I estimate that about 50% of the individuals who visit the clinic also have concerns related to hair in addition to skin issues. Nearly every other person is experiencing hair loss or thinning. In addition to hair, acne and pigmentation have become increasingly widespread, particularly among those who are over 40 and may not have been adequately caring for their skin. To generalize, individuals over 40 typically face more pigmentation issues, while those under 40 are more prone to experiencing problems such as acne and stretch marks.

Let's hear from you what a dermat’s skincare routine looks like?

To maintain consistency in my routine, as a dermatologist, I have to conduct a lot of trial and error tests on samples before prescribing them to my patients. However, my personal routine includes using a morning cleanser, followed by a vitamin C serum and a light moisturizer as my skin is oily. Additionally, I apply sunscreen after moisturizing, but if the weather is too humid, I may skip the moisturizer. This routine of applying vitamin C serum and sunscreen in the morning has been a consistent practice that has benefited my skin over the years.

At night, I use retinol two to three times a week as it helps with anti-aging and my oily skin. On the other nights, I apply glycolics or brightening serums with kojic acid to help with skin radiance

What are some of the common skincare mistakes?

One of the most common practices, which is typical of Indian culture, is physical scrubbing for detanning and maintaining glowing skin. While manual scrubbing once in two weeks is acceptable, people tend to do it more frequently, which can cause more harm than good in the long run.

Another common practice, which is not necessarily a mistake, but not needed for everyone, is the use of toner. People have been using it as part of the CTM (Cleansing, Toning, Moisturizing) routine, an age-old practice. However, toner is not required on an everyday basis and may only be needed for specific skin types. This is a common mistake people make.

Additionally, people tend to follow what their friends are doing and try it for themselves without considering that everyone's skin is different. Even in a city like Mumbai, each individual's skin is unique. It's essential to understand your skin type and decide what works best for you. It's a common mistake to assume that what works for someone else will also work for you.

Injectables fillers. Botox, permanent makeup, et cetera, are effective in managing skin damage. What's your advice about these treatments and how good are these?

Choosing the right cosmetic procedure requires understanding the purpose of each treatment. For example, Botox is often misunderstood as a filler that plumps up lips and cheeks, but it's actually used to treat deep lines and wrinkles like forehead lines or crow's feet. Botox can give a natural look when done correctly and can prevent the formation of static lines.

On the other hand, fillers are used to restore volume in areas where it has been lost due to aging or weight loss. Threads are mainly for lifting and tightening the skin. It's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it's best to understand what each treatment does and choose accordingly rather than simply following trends or what others have done.

What are your plans for the future

I aspire to continually seek out innovative ideas particularly in the area of hair care. I believe that hair is a crucial aspect of a person's appearance and confidence, and therefore, there is a great need for new developments in this field. To this end, I am actively involved in assisting with research efforts aimed at discovering new solutions and advancements for hair care. I am optimistic about the potential for progress and look forward to contributing to it myself.

If this integral bond of marriage is split owing to an extra marital affair by either the husband or the wife, how is it not amounting to a breach of a significant promise, breach of cultural ethics of our Indian society and how it does not call for necessary punishments and appropriate consequences to the degree of damages caused by it at individual to family level and further extending to a society level.

The modern form of marriage has transformed in many ways nevertheless the crux of this association among the two individuals, the immediate families, the values, the emotions and the desirable expectations etc., are however still unaltered majorly.

Live-in relationships have been awarded legal recognition in our country, it can still be acceptable with the advancement in almost every sphere of human-life. The process of match making in our Indian society has been in existence since very beginning, wherein at first, the elders are involved in meeting the prospective families and with the boy & the girl as well and this process usually repeats till the best match is found. Occasionally, it goes up to the engagement ceremony, courtship periods and then ends with mutual or nonmutual consents as well. Live-in can still be considered as an advance version of this process where the boy and the girl take the lead and make the decisions of their respective lives of selecting a partner and whether eventually, they opt for tying the knot or not.

However, marriage is way contrasting, it is an agreement post the mutual consents, it is the establishment of a legal relationship which has cultural principles attached to it. The usual expectation in the marriage is to deliver a child or children in future, who are the ‘youth’ of the country.

An affair in this set-up is a breach, is a ditch and causes turbulence to of a ed in extra legal s the ciety, legal riage es all h on is a

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and virtues of our culturally rich country. It is vital to channelize the approach in such a manner which ensures that the youth of the society is intellectually in good shape and is raised in a united prospering blissful family and having a strong respect to the legacy of our country.

BETTER SHOPPING HABITS

WRITTEN BY: LILLIAN & DAVE BRUMMET

Conscious consumerism alone has a major impact on the local economy, your personal health, budget constraints and the environment. It involves looking at the power of each dollar spent and evaluating how it can make a difference while benefiting your family.

Sign into your favorite social networking sites and join local buy and sell, advertise, entrepreneur and local event groups. Doing so will expose you to small and home-based entrepreneurs producing wonderful products at great prices. You may find artists who carve beautiful house address signs out of scraps they obtained from a woodwork shop operating just a few blocks from you, who purchased their materials from a local mill. Each of these small businesses hires local people and buys coffee for their staff room and gas from local

You may find great prices on items like buckets of honey produced by local beekeepers, and as we all know - bees are vital to food production as well as a healthy environment overall. Local wine producers support local fruit producers. In fact there are small home-brew businesses where you can take in the fruits harvested from your property and have them produce the wine for you at around $6 per bottle. The bottles and buckets (from these examples above) are both reusable and recyclable.

Dropping into events featuring local entrepreneurs from farmers, artists and crafters to authors and gardeners is a great way to discover what is going on locally. These events will also bring in food trucks and caterers, and many booths will offer samples of the cheese, juice, breads, candies and other items that are produced locally.

Farmers markets typically happen once per week, which is a great way to get nutritionally rich, fresh produce - but also to find amazing products made by talented people in the area. Holiday and craft markets will occur a month or more prior to each holiday. Garden markets are often larger affairs that occur in the spring with businesses displaying their works for anything yard related from decorations to plants to supplies and services. Festivals also offer a great opportunity to get exposed to many interesting products available in our community Drop into the small stands and stores

Some of the larger events will charge an entry fee, usually less than $10 often only $2, and this fee goes to help with the costs of putting on the event. Paying the fee is a great way to ensure events like these continue, and is a positive way to support local small business owners. Attending these events can lead to networking opportunities too, and therefore the fee might be a business write-off for you. These businesses might also offer you discounts and collaborate on future activities. For instance, if you plan on hosting an event - perhaps one of those food trucks would be willing to serve your guests, you might hire some local musicians that you met recently to provide the music, and provide gift bags filled with locally made goodies for those who attended your event. Perhaps some of the business owners would like to contribute gift certificates or something for those gift bags.

Get the kids involved when you go to these events by giving each person a certain budget to work with. When you get home, go through what was purchased and get everyone to decide who got the best value for the money spent. Have them enter a variety of prize draws and contests while browsing the various booths. This family activity is a fantastic teaching tool, helping them understand budgeting, math and the value of money. Have a discussion on which booth had the best displays, which samples were the most delicious, and perhaps what other booths could have done to improve their appearance or attract more people to their booth. Discussions like these help develop an entrepreneurial spirit. It also instills in them a sense of responsibility to support local, while bonding with them during these family activities.

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Pure Nutrition Naturals GLUTATHIONE 500 is designed to protect and nourish your skin during the hot summer months. The product is enriched with powerful natural ingredients, including glutathione, saffron, turmeric, aloe vera extract, and hydrating hyaluronic acid. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect your skin from UV radiation and other environmental stressors. Saffron and turmeric are ancient natural ingredients known for their ability to brighten and even out your complexion. Aloe vera extract is excellent for reducing inflammation and soothing any redness or irritation, while hyaluronic acid provides much-needed hydration to your skin.

At Pure Nutrition Naturals, we use only the best, purest natural ingredients in our products. As a result, our skincare product is free from harmful chemicals and is suitable for all skin types, making it safe and effective for your skin. So say goodbye to dull, dry skin this summer and hello to a glowing, healthy complexion with Pure Nutrition Naturals.

MRP: INR. 999/-

UNVEILING THE SECRETS OF INTERIOR DESIGN WITH PREETI KATARIA

ARCHITECT AND INTERIOR DESIGNER

I aim for creating elegant and sophisticated spaces which are also experimental when it comes to designing. Every space must reflect the heart and soul of the client so I start each project with fresh ideas. I take inspiration from their unique stories and I love to be able to translate that into beautiful purposeful spaces for them.

The design field gives me an opportunity to discover my own potential as a creative problem solver and it allows me to explore many facets of design as every project is unique. There is always something new to learn and I get to spend my time doing what I truly love. It is so amusing to see my visions realized.

I believe all kinds of design must stand the test of time so I make sure I am not a slave to any trend. The spaces need to be efficient whilst being visually pleasing. In an industry where visual beauty reigns, it is important to stay true to yourself. I thrive to keep this authenticity when it comes to leading both my work and life.

DESIGN INTERIOR

Project: Windsor home

Project location: Gurgaon city

Interior designer: Preeti Kataria

The design is an amalgamation of elements that create an eclectic spatial experience. As spiritual interaction plays a significant part in the family, the design highlights the very aspect through the artwork that is rooted in family’s culture and travel histories.

A customized Pichwai Art placed above a teakwood bench overlooks the terracotta walled entry foyer that opens to a living and dining area. The handcrafted brass and teakwood swing acts as a transparent transition between the living and the dining spaces, keeping the seamless experience of the space intact. The living room furniture accentuates vibrant hues of dark sofa, teakwood coffee table, a custom television console with wall panelling, an accent chair upholstered in printed blue fabric and indoor plants to create a calm ambience with ample diffused natural light.

WL Studio Instagram:

The white walls with delicate mouldings act as a clean backdrop for crystal brass wall lights and artworks. The brass chandelier brings in the luxurious touch in line with the handmade furniture. The custom dining table and chairs create a clean clutterfree spatial character with subtle notes of greens and warm ambient lighting. The overall space balances both traditional and contemporary features to create a holistic environment.

Living Room

Mother's Day This gift good

heath the You Care Lifestyle way!

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and finding the right gift year after year can be a daunting task. You Care Lifestyle’s curated high-quality and honest products leaves you spoilt for choice. You Care lifestyle powered by Luke Coutinho is a platform to reckon with for its clean consumption range from the edible, nutrition to all lifestyle products categories. Cold pressed oils, raw honey to clean organic face washes here are a wide range of gifting options to choose from:

CHANNASATTUPOWDERBYADYAORGANICS

Made from stone-ground 100% pure channa, Adya Organics Sattu powder, recommended by Luke Coutinho, will chill your spirit. Sattu has several benefits, but its chief benefit is cooling your stomach in this scorching heat. Organic Sattu is gluten-free and high in protein. It is a super food packed with several immunity-boosting and energy-enhancing nutrients. Because of its low sodium and glycemic content, it is an ideal addition to the diets of people with high blood glucoses. Sattu’s cooling properties make it a perfect summer drink.

ADYAORGANICSSESAMEOIL

Adya sesame oil is extracted from white sesame seeds using the traditional Kolhu method. Sesame seeds are known to be a rich source of calcium, Vitamin E & other nutrients, making them great antioxidants. Natural antioxidants like sesamol, sesamolin and sesamin, all of which are beneficial in cleansing the skin. This oil is healthy with high antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties. Sesame oil can be used to detoxify the liver, lower blood pressure and can also be used to uplift the mood of a person through a warm massage.

ADYAORGANICSRAWHONEYCOMBO

This combo contains Multiflora Honey, Eucalyptus Honey, and Sheesham Honey, all 100% pure raw organic honey variants. Raw organic honey carries nature’s secret to a healthy life. Known for its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, honey is an excellent addition to skin care. Honey also helps relieve bad throats and acts as a natural remedy for flu, and aids nasal congestion. Eucalyptus honey is known to be helpful for joint pains and respiratory problems.

ADYAORGANICSVIRGINCOCONUTOIL

Coconut oil is nature’s elixir to perfect skin, hair and body. Adya Organics Coconut Oil is extracted using the cold-pressed method that retains all the essential nutrients. Virgin coconut oil is a Holy Grail product for a healthy mind and body. It increases the moisture content of the skin making it a boon for skin health. Massaging the scalp with this organic oil helps to strengthen the hair and revive its lost shine. Coconut oil also stimulates metabolism and helps in losing weight. The product is 100% natural, organic and preservatives free..

PRAAKRITIKORGANICSATTUATTA

Traditionally, Sattu was considered to be the food of the poor. It was affordable, easily accessible, and rich in protein, required less cooking time, and ensured a full stomach. Now a lot many people are aware of the health benefits of this superfood. Sattu helps in muscle growth and repair, keeps you cool, is great for digestion, and regulates blood sugar. Sattu flour is rich in protein, fiber, calcium, manganese, iron & magnesium. Regular consumption of Sattu aids in flushing out toxins and boosts energy.

URVIJABLACK GRAPESAND HONEYFACEWASH

A unique combination of all-natural ingredients, this face wash helps to reduce fine lines & dryness, enhancing the elasticity of skin. Specially recommended for dry skin, the soft lather of saponified oils cleanses the skin without stripping its natural moisture. The polyphenols in black grapes repair wrinkle and fine lines, honey adds moisture, manjistha extract and essential oils improve complexion. The product is gentle and suitable for daily use since it contains no harsh sulfates or parabens. Furthermore, it's vegancertified, palm-oil free, and ecofriendly.

Refocusing Body Image Refocusing Body Image Perspectives Perspectives

Power in a Picture

As a boudoir photographer (@katelynscottboudoir), Katelyn now wields compassion and her camera to help others become more comfortable with themselves. All body types can be beautiful and sexy and her goal is to help individuals change their perspective, even just a small amount. “Allowing yourself to disassociate happiness with your exterior allows you to feel good in your skin.” This philosophy has produced incredible images of all body types, empowering her subjects to be themselves, both striking and authentic.

As a society, we’ve become experts at capturing moments in life — but too quickly filter out the imperfections. Before getting too liberal with the delete button, Katelyn argues that the pictures we take are not entirely for us. Photos are for our loved ones, both now and after we are gone — and they certainly are not looking at the “flaws” that taint our own view. They are taking in the emotions on your face, the memories of the day, and the person they knew. They see YOU.

Your Body Doesn’t Define Your Self-Worth

Understanding your self-worth is the first step toward confidently stepping in front of the camera. Katelyn takes a much different approach. Unlike society’s demand to love your body, she leans into a ‘neutrality’ stance. “Your body is a tool to keep you alive. [It] is the least interesting part of you. Show me your heart, show me your brain.

The images reflecting that mentality often are the most striking and authentic. At the same time, Katelyn makes it clear to her photography clients that they have permission to not like images of themselves. Her sessions are about the experience itself, not the photos at the end. She wants them to walk away with a glimpse of how the world sees them and grow in confidence, leaving with a fresh perspective about themselves.

Insecurity is Universal

Hit singer Mehgan Trainor openly speaks and sings about her own struggles with insecurity. When Billboard asked about “All About That Bass,” she said, “I wrote it for me because I’ve struggled with [body image] since I was very young. And, my best friend is a beautiful goddess, but she’ll pick on herself in the mirror.” Meghan explained. “So, if other girls can relate to the song, it makes me feel even better.” Meghan is addressing what we all should realize every person has insecurities. No one is exempt from the societal pressures that are put on us to look a certain way, but we don’t have to be imprisoned by them.

By changing our self-narrative by shifting focus from our flaws to our strengths and inner beauty, the images of ourselves begin to blossom. The emotions of the moment shine through as you capture your authentic self, embracing what’s on the inside. Don’t let the insecurities we are plagued with stop you from celebrating your life. Take the photo - “every inch of you is perfect, from the bottom to the top.”

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