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K’s which help in skincare

K’s which help in skincare

Taking in good food that is rich in nutrients,vitamins and minerals is not only good for a healthy body. Eating a healthy meal also is good to maintain skin and keep it free from skin problems. It is not that chemical compounds in sleek tubes, shiny tubs can get you clear skin that you dream of. The steel containers, ceramic jars in kitchen and also the fruit basket on your dining table can help you achieve the same.
Let’s take a look at K’s which help in skincare.

KIWIS

Kiwis



The fuzzy hairy brown outer skin might not seem appealing but the bright green pulp and black seeds sure do have a lot of skincare miracles hiding inside.



Vitamin C is one of the richest sources of antioxidants that helps fight against sun damage and free radical damage. Kiwi is rich in vitamin C and can help heal skin by revitalizing it. Kiwi can give expensive cosmetic range a run. Kiwi can be used as an astringent when applied topically on the skin and helps lighten the skin.


Vitamin C helps in skin hydration. That said kiwi can help increase lipid barriers which protect against moisture loss and gives a dewy skin which gives a youthful appearance.


Vitamin E is also present in kiwi which is helps in providing nourishment to skin. The combination of vitamin E and vitamin C is more beneficial than vitamin C alone.



Oxidative stress causes dark patches and dark spots as signs of ageing. The phytonutrients in kiwi help in shielding the DNA from this kind of damage.
Kiwi has the ability to influence the age cells because of presence of Vitamin C , vitamin E and phytonutrients which help in boosting collagen production. Kiwi has the healing capability to cure cuts, saggy skin, dark patches and spots and bruises.



Lutein present in kiwi helps protecting skin from ultraviolet radiation. It also has anitinflammatory properties that help in lessening rashes, allergy and swelling.


The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of kiwi help in fighting against acne causing bacteria and thereby reduces chances for acne occurrence. Kiwi also helps in lightening dark spots left behind by acne.


Kiwi has AHAs naturally present which help in boosting skin radiance and skin cell turnover. This helps remove impurities which stand as hindrance to achieve even tone. Now this can be achieved from comfort of home just by rubbing kiwi slices on to skin.


Healthy blood vessels and oxygen circulation is essential to prevent eye bags or dark circles. Kiwi helps in improving blood circulation to achieve the same.


Potassium is necessary to keep skin firm and prevent sagging. It also helps against dryness. Kiwi contains potassium which helps keep skin firm and free from wrinkles and sagging.

DIYS:

  • Brightening mask: Just peel the skin of one kiwi. Blend the pulp and apply on to face. Wash off after 15 minutes.
  • Glow mask: Peel skin and blend the pulp and a cup of yogurt. Apply paste on to face and wash off after 30 minutes to discover glowing skin.
  • Hyperpigmentation and blemish mask: Peel skin and blend pulp . Add few drops of lemon juice. Apply on to face and wash off when it dries.
  • Mask for dry and dehydrated skin: Make a paste of one ripe banana. Mix in blended pulp of one kiwi and yogurt. Mix all the ingredients. Apply on to face and wash off after half an hour.
  • Beauty mask: Peel skin and blend pulp of one kiwi. Add one tablespoon of besan and ground almond powder. Mix all and apply on to skin. Wash off after 30 minutes.
  • Exfoliation mask : Blend one kiwi pulp, half a cucumber and five strawberries. Apply on to face and wash off after 30 minutes post gentle massage.
  • Acne prevention mask: Mix in one tablespoon of sandalwood powder to one kiwi’s pulp. Apply on to face and wash off after 30 minutes.
  • Radiant, skin rejuvenation mask: Mix in pulp of avocado and kiwi one tablespoon of each. Make a uniform paste and apply on to face. Wash off after 30 minutes.
  • Healthy skin mask: Mix in one tablespoon on olive oil to one tablespoon of kiwi juice. Apply on to face and wash off after 15 minutes.
  • Glow mask 2: Blend one egg yolk, 10 drops of olive oil and pulp of one peeled kiwi. Apply on to face and wash off after 15 minutes.

Kalonji(Nigella seeds)

Nigella seeds/ kalonji



Kalonji or nigella seeds oil is antibacterial and helps fight against acne causing bacteria.



Popularly known as black seed oil it is rich in antioxidant. It helps fight against free radicals in body. Helps improve the quality of skin and acts well to heal inflammation.


Kalonji seeds can be a good remedy to cure cracked heals. You could simply apply the black seed oil to heal the cracks or mix in lemon juice with oil to massage the feet.



Black seed oil on regular usage helps lighten dark spots and patches.

It is a great remedy to combat eczema.

DIYS

  • Anti acne mask: Mix one teaspoon of kalonji powder, a teaspoon of lemon peel powder and half a teaspoon of ACV. Mix well and apply on affected areas. This also helps balance skin pH.
  • Skin detox mask: Mix in a tablespoon of kalonji powder, a teaspoon of aloe vera gel and a teaspoon of skimmed milk. Mix all and apply on to face. Wash off when it dries.
  • Basic mask: Mix a teaspoon of kalonji powder and a teaspoon of milk. Apply on to face and wash off after 15 minutes Evens skin tone and removes impurities.
  • Brightening mask:Mix in one teaspoon of oats powder, kalonji powder,half a teaspoon of honey and almond oil. Mix in some milk cream. Apply on to face and wash off when it dries post a gentle massage.
  • Detan mask: Mix in a spoon of kalonji powder. A teaspoon of rice flour and sesame oil. Add milk to adjust consistency. Apply on to face and wash off wen it dries. Heals sunburn and prevents tan.
  • Glow juice and mask: Mix in half a teaspoon of kalonji oil to one glass of orange juice. Drink in empty stomach to flush out toxins.
  • To remove tan this mixture can be applied on affected areas and washed off after 10 minutes.

This post is written as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z challenge.

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J’s which help in skincare

J’s which help in skincare


Essential oils are great to use for skincare. But you need to know how to use them. They cannot be used directly but can be used in combination with carrier oils. Right from curing ailments , relaxing your mind to healing skin issues essential oils have varied benefits.



Now lets see how we could used jojoba oil and its benefits for skin.

JOJOBA OIL

Jojoba oil



Jojoba oil was long ago used by native Americans for its cosmetic and healing properties. They ground the seed with pestle to use the buttery residue that has many benefits.



Jojoba oil is a humectant. It helps to seal moisture and also act as a barrier preventing bacterial infection and acne.



Jojoba oil is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamin E. The antioxidants help protect against pollution effects on skin. Since antioxidants also help in collagen production it helps skin look younger and firm.



Jojoba oil is said to be noncomedogenic. Its similar to sebum secretion in skin.When applied on skin, it helps in less building up of sebum and thereby does not clog pores which eventually is the primary reason for acne or breakouts. This is because when applied the body is signaled that there is similar substance already present and does not need anything in addition to be secreted.



Jojoba oil is a hypoallergenic and does not cause an allergy when used on skin. It is easily absorbed because of its waxy texture.



Jojoba oil is a good ingredient to be used as cleanser. Soaps or face wash could be avoided and the oil can be used to remove dirt and impurities. Its an excellent makeup remover and makes it easier to remove it with ease.



Jojoba oil is a common ingredient in many sunscreen due to its healing abilities. It helps heal sunburns.


Jojoba oil helps in healing because of its anti inflammatory properties. Skin issues like dry skin, eczema, psoriasis ,acne and scarring can be healed. Topical application over skin can help in relieving itching, dryness and flaking.



Because of its oily consistency and texture it is suitable for treating dry and chapped lips.



USES:

  • Jojoba oil can be mixed with peppermint oil to ease pain.
  • Jojoba oil can be mixed with eucalyptus oil for stress relief.
  • Jojoba oil can be used to massage dry lips. This can be followed by using your regular lip balm. Visible difference on continuous usage.
  • Massage jojoba oil on skin around nails to moisturize the cuticles and to prevent infections in nails.
  • On prolonged usage it helps in lash growth.

DIYS


LIP SCRUB: Mix 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 tablespoon jojoba oil, few drops of peppermint oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of honey to make your own lip scrub. Store in an airtight glass jar.


FACE MASK: Blend 1/2 cup oats to powder, mix in 1.5 tablespoons of coconut oil, honey and greek yogurt to it. Mix in few drops of jojoba oil and vitamin E oil. Oats helps in exfoliation and jojoba oil helps in moisturizing.


BODY SCRUB: Mix 1/2 cup brown sugar with one teaspoon each of jojoba and sweet almond oil. Mix in one tablespoon of honey and two tablespoons of lemon juice for your very own body scrub.

JUICES :

Juices


Juices are perfect to be taken in for glowing skin. After all a healthy body shows in the glowing skin. So your skin condition also depends on what you consume in.


Let me list down some juices that also guarantee glowing skin.

  • Beetroot juice: Beetroot is best to cure blemishes and dark spots. It also helps in purifying blood. Best time to consume would be in between meals.
  • Carrot juice:Helps ward off sun damage, acne and pigmentation. It also helps even out skin tone. Best time to consume would be early morning.
  • Tomato juice: Rich in antioxidants helps achieve younger looking skin. Also helps reduce dis-colouration and large pores. Best time to consume would be early morning.
  • Spinach juice: Helps lightening the tone and enhancing complexion. Best to be consumed as a meal replacement.
  • Orange juice: Prevents skin from getting dry and flaked. Boosts collagen and reduce premature ageing. Best time to consume is early morning or before meals.
  • Lemon juice: Cleanse the body and flush out toxins. Best time to consume is early morning with honey.
  • Aloe vera juice: Helps in skin healing and maintain natural glow. Best time to consume is early morning before meal.
  • Gooseberry or amla juice: Boost collagen production and delays ageing thereby reducing wrinkles , fine lines and dark spots. Best time to consume would be early morning or before meals.
  • Cucumber juice: Helps keep skin nourished and hydrated. Also helps in flushing out toxins. Best time to consume would be early morning in empty stomach.
  • Sweet lime juice: Helps purify blood and heals dry skin. Best time to be consumed is early in the morning.
  • Pomegranate juice: Slows down ageing, purifies blood, keeps skin hydrated and renews skin cells. Best time to consume is early in the morning.
  • Apple juice: Helps keep skin firm by boosting collagen and has antioxidants which delay signs of ageing. Best time to consume is early morning in empty stomach

This post is written as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z challenge.

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I’s which help in skincare

I’s which help in skincare

Talking about skincare ingredients that can be sourced right from a hands reach today let’s get to know the ingredients in I that give you the perfect skin.

Ice

Ice

Most skincare experts when sought for skincare issues advice on drinking up enough water. Now why would that be a common advice? Drinking enough water helps flush out toxins from the body which is the major cause of many issues.

Frozen water or ice has multiple benefits to skincare. Surprised ?? It helps boost blood circulation and also aid skincare products used to show better results. Now let’s take a look at how this wonder ingredient in your freezer makes your skin glow. You could use this magic ingredient once a day on face and neck and notice the change.

Keeps acne in check
Acne could lead to redness and itching. Sometimes it could lead to inflammation that causes pain. Ice cubes help in making the pain subside. On continuous usage it could show good improvement on skin.

Reduce eyebags and puffy eyes
Wrap ice cubes in a cloth and then apply under the eyes. This is similar to how ice alleviates swelling. The under eye skin is delicate so take care not to have prolonged massage with ice cubes.

Ease waxing pains and discomfort
Ice cubes helps in easing the pains and discomfort post waxing or threading. The area usually appears red and sensitive. An ice cubes massage definitely helps in healing it.

Reduce pores
Post cleansing ice cubes can be wrapped in a cloth and used for massaging the skin on face. This helps in reducing the pore size and also sweating. Doing this massage also adds glow to skin.

Keeping foundation intact
Post cleansing and toning with an astringent, massage your face with a wrap cloth that has ice cubes. This will make your foundation last longer. You can thank me later for long lasting make up.

Reduce signs of ageing
Regular usage of applying ice cubes on face also helps in reducing signs of ageing. This is because the ice cubes help in boosting blood circulation which help the anti aging products to work better on skin.Since it also reduces pore size it helps prevent fine lines as well.

Remove facial hair

Applying ice and then using a facial scrub to remove facial hair could work when done over a longer period of time but could guarantee permanent results.

You could also use variety of ingredients in your ice cube to improve the benefits.

Aloe vera– for dry and dehydrated skin.

Rose water – for healing inflammation and rashes
Green tea – for antioxidant boost
Milk cubes– for firm cheekbones and contouring effect.

Ice apple

The summer fruit known as ice apple, tadgola is rich in vitamin, iron, minerals and calcium.

It’s an excellent coolant and great for cooling down the body heat naturally.

It is loaded with calcium, phosphorus and has antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is great to heal rashes in summer.

Applying the flesh of ice apple.over rashes and prickly heat helps in soothing the area and relieves itching.

It slows down the process of ageing and due to the presence of photochemical which possess antioxidant properties.

This post is written as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z challenge.

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H’s which help in skincare

Let’s take a look at ingredients in H which help in getting you flawless skin.

H’s which help in skincare

Himalayan pink salt

Himalayan pink salt

The Himalayan pink salt has been lauded and also applauded more in the recent years as the purest salt available on the planet. But what does it got to do with skincare. If you still haven’t incorporated this in your skincare routine, you could think of including it after reading the benefits.

This salt is rich in sodium but also contains traces of potassium, calcium, chloride and magnesium.

Balance skin pH
Himalayan pink salt helps in balancing skin pH, pore tightening and eliminates impurities. The salt helps in balancing the pH which is conducive in skin repairing.

Clear skin
The salt helps in reducing sebum production and helps in clearing out skin from problems like acne and blemishes.

Eliminates body odour

This miracle ingredient is very helpful to remove body odour.

Skin detox
The salt helps in eliminating toxins and helps in rejuvenation making it one of the best detoxifiers.

EXFOLIATION
The salt not only removes the dead skin cells but also makes it soft and supple.

Deep cleansing

The salt helps in absorbing dirt and impurities on top of the skin. With antibacterial properties it helps keep the skin clean.

DIY s

1.body scrub : fine grain Himalayan pink salt could be mixed with coconut oil to make it a body scrub. This help in removing dead cells cure irritation and help in regeneration of new cells. This would be the perfect solution to areas of flaky skin.

2. face mist : a teaspoon of pink salt with half a cup of water can be your go to face mist and hair spray. Dry skin: To this add some aloe Vera gel and coconut oil. Oily skin: the above concoction can be sued as is.

This spray also when used on hair gives you perfect beach waves.

3. Face mask : mix two teaspoons of salt to four teaspoons of honey. Apply the paste on face and neck. Wash off after 15 minutes with warm water. Gently do a scrub before washing.

4. Face toner : mix half teaspoon of salt to one teaspoon of coconut oil, few drops of lemon or orange oil and half a cup of water. Transfer to a bottle.

Honey

Honey

One of nature’s best gift as food, medicine and skincare product , honey is widely used in many products.

It’s antibacterial and antiseptic nature makes it one of the best ingredients for oily and acne prone skin.

Honey is by nature a humectant, which draws moisture without making skin dry.

Skin moisturizer : The components in honey enable it to get absorbed easily and softening skin from deep within.

DIY : Apply a tablespoon of honey on clear dry skin. Gently massage and leave on for 15 minutes. Wash off with cold water.

Cleanser : Honey can be used as cleanser to remove impurities from pores and remove blackheads. The dirt in the pores being removed help prevent blackheads. This is due to antibacterial property of honey.

DIY : mix one teaspoon honey with two teaspoons of coconut oil. Massage this paste onto clean dry skin. Massage in circular motion. Wash off with cold water.

Exfoliator : Honey is a natural exfoliator which helps removing dead skin cells without damaging skin unlike chemical exfoliator. Honey also helps in making skin radiant.

DIY : Mix one spoon baking soda with two spoons of honey. Wet face and massage this paste in circular motion.wash off in cold water.

Anti aging and reduces fine lines : The antioxidant present in honey helps in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It helps improve elasticity of skin and keeps your skin glowing and youthful.

DIY : Mix honey with milk or curd. Apply onto face. Wash off with warm water post 15 minutes.

Reduce dark spots and blemishes

Honey help in lightening dark spots and blemishes.

DIY : Mix honey to one tomato’s juice. Apply on face and rinse with water after 15 minutes. This helps lightening dark spots and pigmentation.

This post is written as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z challenge.

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G’s which help in skincare

G’s which help in skincare

Let’s take a look at the G’s which help in getting you wonderful skin.

Green gram

Green gram

An age old ingredient that has been passed down generations for maintaining good skin. Being used as the green gram or moong this little ingredient definitely guarantees flawless radiant skin when used on regular basis.
Enriched with vitamin C and A this ingredient can give your skin natural glow.


SKIN HYDRATION: Green gram helps in boosting hydration in dry skin. The cell rejuvenating enzymes and vitamins present in green gram help in moisture lock.



DIY:
Soak 2 teaspoons of green gram in 3 teaspoons of raw milk overnight.
Grind them to a fine paste in the morning and apply on face and neck.
Wash off after 20 minutes.
Can be used weekly thrice.


REMOVAL OF FACIAL HAIR
No more threading or shaving . This pack sure does reduce fine facial hair growth and guarantees result.


DIY: Soak 4 teaspoons of moong overnight. Grind I 2 teaspoons in the morning with 2 teaspoons sandalwood powder and 2 teaspoons orange peel powder. You could add milk to adjust consistency.
Apply on face and gently scrub in circular motion.


REDUCING SUN TAN EFFECT
Green moong helps in healing sun tan and restoring skin to its original form.



DIY:
Soak 4 teaspoon of moong overnight. Grind to a paste and mix in yogurt. Apply on face and neck. Wash off after 15 minutes.


PREVENT ACNE:
Popping out pimples or taking ITC medication is not going to reduce occurrence of pimples.


DIY:
Soak 4 teaspoons of moong overnight. Grind to a paste, add two teaspoon of ghee and massage skin. Wash off after massage. When using this pack on regular basis you could see visibly acne free skin.



SKIN BRIGHTENING:
Green moong is an excellent ingredient for exfoliation. Regular exfoliation when properly done does give you radiant glowing skin. The dead cells and dirt when taken out during exfoliation make skin glow from within.


DIY:
Soak two teaspoons of moong overnight. Grind to a paste and add 1-2 two drops of almond oil and a teaspoon of honey. Apply this pack on face and wash off after 15 minutes. Repeat twice a week.



BATH POWDER/FACE WASH:
Dry green moong powder can be used daily on a regular basis. You could mix it with turmeric or besan and use it as cleanser or a face wash.

Green tea

Green tea

Widely wanted drink next to water on this planet. Starting your mornings with this wonder drink has innumerable health benefits to offer. But if you have not applied this ingredient topically your skincare routine needs to be revisited.


Green tea when consumed has a lot of health benefits and also helps flush out toxins thereby aiding clear skin. But this wonder ingredient has now found its way into almost all skincare product range by almost every brand.


Right from a face wash, moisturizer, toner, face mask,scrub and sleeping mask ; you name it and green tea is surely listed as one of the ingredients.

Why green tea?


Fights against premature ageing : The antioxidants present in green tea helps in rejuvenate skin cells. Green tea combats signs of ageing and helps make skin look healthier by repairing them and protecting them. Vitamin B2 in green tea helps boost collagen production thus makes skin look more firm.


Reduce irritation: Polyphenols in green tea have anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing swelling or redness. For dermatitis and psoriasis green tea can help in soothing and reducing the itch feel.


Moisturize skin: Vitamin E in green tea helps in nourishment of the skin cells. On continuous application you can visibly notice reduced roughness and enough hydration in skin.



Protects against skin cancer: The antioxidants present in green tea help fight against free radical . Free radicals could be harmful to the body and green tea helps in repairing the DNA due to damage caused by exposure to harmful UV rays.


Helps in acne treatment: The polyphenols have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties which help in treating acne breakouts effectively.
The polyphenols also help in regulating the production of sebum which are main cause of acne.
Green tea also helps fight against bacteria which cause acne.


Helps maintain skin pH: Some blends of green tea have natural oils which help nourish the skin and maintain their pH.


Helps tone the skin:
The astringent nature of green tea helps in shrinking the pores making it free from grease and dirt. Hence skin transforms having even tone.


Remedy for chapped lips: Green tea has excellent hydration properties which make it a great option to treat chapped lips. Use a brewed green tea bag over chapped lips. Remember not to scrub the lips.


Reduce puffiness and dark circles:The presence of tannin and antioxidants in green tea help shrink blood vessels under the eyes and hence make the skin tone lighter and reduce puffiness of the eyes. Regular usage will lighten the dark circles.

DIYs




For natural glow and moisture: Brew 1 tablespoon of green tea in water and mix honey(1 tbsp). Apply this onto face and let this sit for about 20 minutes. Wash off in cold water. Repeat twice a week.



For soft and supple skin: Mix two egg yolks, a tablespoon of oats, 3 green tea bag contents, one spoon sugar and half a spoon honey. Apply onto face and wash off after 20 minutes in cold water. Repeat once a week.



For oily skin: Mix content of one green tea bag, a teaspoon of rice flour, half a teaspoon honey and drops of lemon juice. Apply onto face and wash off after 15 minutes. Repeat once a week.


For sensitive skin:Mix content of one green tea bag, a teaspoon of yogurt and honey and few drops of lemon juice. Apply onto face and wash off after 15 minutes. Can be applied daily.



For oily skin: Mix half mashed banana, one teaspoon of yogurt and honey and content of one green tea bag. Apply on to face and wash off after 5 minutes post massaging.

This post is written as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z challenge.

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Theme reveal – A to Z of natural skincare #blogchatterA2Z



Skin is one of the most important organs of our body. We have seen people often saying that “ I have good skin or my skin is healthy” ; nobody says “ I have a healthy heart or healthy liver”. So now you know the importance.
Your inner health reflects in your skin. If you are hale and healthy you have glowing skin but if you’re prone to breakouts, acne, dry skin, flakes and cracking up you also need to pay attention to your health.
Your skin is divine and the organ that needs utmost care. Be it sensitive or no, it isn’t a laboratory to keep trying on new chemicals or stuff from shiny bottles, tubes or tubs. Most important point when you plan to choose a new skincare product is to check the ingredients on the label for presence of harsh chemicals that could harm your skin. Next on the list would be to confirm if the product would suit your skin type.
Most of the chemicals that you apply on skin can enter your bloodstream.Skin being the largest organ can absorb toxins and lead to skincare problems like irritation, allergies and sensitivities. If we dare not drink crude oil, why would we put it on skin. Whatever you use is typically food for the skin and the body.
Identifying skin type is one of the mandatory checks one has to do. Whether you use high range or low range knowing skin type is definitely a must in order to choose products that suit your skin.
Brands nowadays make it clear on their labels the skin type the product suits and warnings on who shouldn’t use.
Leaving aside everything, ‘Did you know that your kitchen, pantry or your house is the biggest warehouse of skincare ingredients?” When you have so many options that are easily accessible at home, why should we fall prey to tubs and tubes.
Almost every ingredient in our kitchen has a unique skincare property. Our ancestors knew this from the very beginning. And it is all coming back into trend with companies bringing in products based on ubtan, sandalwood, besan and aloe vera. People are hesitant to use it from kitchens but are happy when the same is bottled and given in brightly labeled packs.
This April I bring you ingredients from home and their skincare purpose so that you could make the switch sooner. Say goodbye to chemicals and hello to skincare from in-home ingredients.

This post is for the theme reveal as part of Blogchatter’s A2Z this April.

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Review of Jasmine builds on shifting sands

Jasmine builds on shifting sands

BLURB

Integrated with hybrid multimedia learning tools, Jasmine Builds on Shifting Sands is a unique self-help fiction offering. Its captivating narrative ties two seemingly distinct tales in an intertwined journey that explores the manifestation of dreams. At the center of the book is Jasmine’s journey of making it as a successful model in the cut-throat world of fashion. Her tale of victory and failure is enveloped within the master narrative of Sanjay, an erudite knowledge-seeker who meets his spiritual guru- Ma. Set between the esoter ic location of the Himalayas and the urban bustle of Mumbai, the book offers an enhanced learning experience which is further amplified through the embedded microlearning content that is interspersed throughout the text, making for a truly immersive experience.

MY REVIEW

Jasmine builds on shifting sands

Fiction and self-help are two of my favourite genres of books. I really don’t know the time ticking when I settle down in my reading corner with books in any one of these genres.

As much as I enjoy fiction, I also enjoy reading self-help books and try implementing principles which suit my way of life. That’s what they’re written for right?

What I look for in self-help books is strategies, lessons, case studies which tell you what to and what not to do. They should make you feel that you could try attempting to implement lessons learned. Examples which state what went wrong and how could that have been handled to make it successful are stuffs which anyone would basically look for in self-help books.

When I came to know that this book has both self-help and fiction entwined I knew I definitely had to pick it up.

What I could also relate is that the book is set in modern period and so is something everyone of us millenials could resonate to.

It takes a lot of time for us to understand ourselves in a better way. Not knowing about ourselves and instead looking out for others to accept us is something that is not plausible. The process of understanding oneself, about what we can and what we cannot, how we can and when we can is called self-discovery. Not everyone of us do this at the same time. For some of us this process happens early and for some later on. This book embarks you on Jasmine’s journey of self-discovery.

The Prologue and the Epilogue add value by providing a powerful context arising from the author’s own personal experience.

The realistic description of the travel to Kedarnath, the picturesque views of Himalaya would make you embark on a virtual journey. The divine relationship between the author and his spiritual guru , their conversations mentioned provide a lot of spiritual learning.

Jasmine who was about to land into a professional career life eventually landed into the world of fashion. Now that is two extreme opposite fields. So how does she handle it ? Does she succeed or fail ? Is she happy or keeps brooding ?

The field that she landed was something completely new to her. She had her parts of failures, jealousies, competition, wrong ways and finally rose above all of it. The author has a lot of learnings from life which he’s penned out beautifully through the story of Jasmine.

Everyone of us has a dream, a goal or an aim. We pursue our actions towards them . We chart out a goal plan to achieve the results. Did you know that the universe also has a major role in making our dreams come true? Now that is what the author tries to convey.

A motivational book that helps you to stay focused and have a positive approach to rise above hurdles and accomplish the dream. The connection to the universe and it’s integral part in making our dreams come true also is a lesson to be learnt.

I love the writing style of the author which he serves to keep it simple and crisp. No beating around the bush or extravagant descriptions. Overall a good one for self-motivation and self-discovery.

About the author :

Sanjay is an entrepreneur and an ex-banker, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore and a Chartered Accountant. During his successful career, Sanjay has been integrating the essence of a parallel spiritual journey with his material pursuits. He has now set out to share the ways and means of seamlessly traversing through the material and spiritual world. Thereby, enriching each journey.

Click below on the thumbnail to buy yourself a copy.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla, and generously SPONSORED BY Bugshield Clothing – Enjoy Outdoors More!

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Book review of Doctor’s kitchen 3-2-1

Doctor’s kitchen 3-2-1 by Dr. Rupy Aujla

Food and lifestyle go hand in hand. This is a hard reality but that is what it is. Most of us tend to ignore or take proper care of what we eat. The food that we eat is what fuels our body, so we should be careful in knowing what goes inside.

It shouldn’t be destroying the body in the process of consumption.

 On the contrary, stopping to consume as part of a diet plan is not going to be of any help at all.

A good diet and a great workout routine go hand in hand to make you achieve a strong and toned physique. If you do not pay much attention to what goes into your body, it is going to show up in your physique and metabolism. Foods rich in sodium, sugar, and fats can help you curb hunger pangs, make you eat more than what is required making your body pile up the pounds but in the long run, will also be the reason for you to succumb to chronic illness. This is the main reason that you should be aware of what your food is made of before it goes inside your body. So a balanced diet that has carbs, proteins, fibers, and vitamins is the right choice.

Plan and cook your meals I’m in advance so that you don’t run hastily at the last minute. Most importantly this would help you in avoiding reaching out to unhealthy food options such as ready to eat, sugar, and sodium loaded foods. Choose a meal plan that suits your body type and one that would help you in reaching your goal.

Rupy Aujla is a medical doctor, home cook, and a portion of food as a medical advocate. That brings us to another point that the food we consume not only plays the part of fuel but also helps in healing conditions and ailments in the notion that food is medicine.

In his recent book, the author brings about a concept 3-2-1.

What is 3-2-1?

A three-part meal with fruits and vegetables for two people cooked in one pan. In this formula or way of cooking the author promises a change in life. The formula aims at ensuring health benefits to optimize healthy living and to streamline the process of cooking. As someone who wants to be fit and healthy by not slogging in the kitchen to cook meals that claim to help in losing pounds, I think this would definitely be a game-changer in cookbooks.

As a working mother of two and also a conscious member of the family who wishes to provide healthy meals to her family, the book does seem to be a quick go-to for me to cook a no-fuss recipe that would yield multiple health benefits. And what took me in awe is the one pan mention which also saves me from the horrendous task of the sink piling up with vessels to be washed. Isn’t this something that all we ladies wish for?

A daily dose of fresh produce, good quality fat, grains, and fibers is what a balanced meal needs to be comprised of and I think the 3-2-1 could be the best way to get this done right. The food that we eat can change the way we think, help in making our mood better, build or boost immunity levels and reduce infection.

When you say you eat well it not only means that you remove unhealthy stuff it is also about taking in foods that help to safeguard yourself from ailments. There is so much to understand between the communications that happen between what you see on your plate and the inner ecosystem. By ecosystem, it means the body that accepts whatever we eat and provides us the necessary energy needed to toil. We also need to understand that in reality we as people find it difficult to continue eating healthily. There is a roadblock somewhere in the form of work, stress, or time that hinders the habit of eating healthy meals in the longer run. Keeping this in mind is what the author promises that his 3-2-1 strategy can help us, in the long run, to eat healthy meals and cultivate an inner chef.

Eat the colours

The author talks about the colors in foods that need to be taken and their health benefits.

Red foods help in relaxing blood vessels and blood pressure.



Green foods help in brain and heart functioning. Green foods that are termed cruciferous have anti-cancer compounds. Green foods like broccoli help in the detoxification of the body.



Yellow and oranges foods are sources of vitamin C and beta carotenes they help in boosting immunity, load the system with anti-oxidants, and also lowering inflammation.

So the next time when we come across the term eat the rainbow or rainbow plate, we must remember it means food that covers all nutritional needs of the body.

The author also provides a lot of recipes ranging from salads, oats, curries, soups, stir-fries that would be in the formulation of 3-2-1 helping us achieve the goal of healthy living. A 100 recipes that guarantee to eat healthily and leading a better lifestyle. So always keep in mind that food is medicine and food is fuel.

What I like about the recipes are that you also get to swap the ingredients with variants that would suit us, By this, I mean a healthy swap or swapping due to non-availability.

Health is something that we need to practice daily and the meal that we consume is what would guide us through this journey of leading a healthy lifestyle. So make sure you make the meal preparation minimal and maximize the utilization of what goes inside us.

Doctor’s kitchen 3-2-1 by Dr. Rupy Aujla

You can buy this book here.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy and Noor Anand Chawla, and happily SPONSORED BY RRE Studios and SHOWCASE Events.

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Things you never knew about facial massage and rollers

Facial massage

What is a facial massage?

A facial massage is a technique, that can be done manually by hands or with helps of facial roller available in the market. The technique involves gently massaging the facial skin.

Why facial massage?

A facial massage helps in increasing blood circulation, destressing and decreasing puffiness. The result of which is a smooth glowing healthy skin.

Typically the face has over 40 muscles, so a massage is great for resolving sinus issues , decreased puffiness with lymphatic drainage. The excess fluid us diverted to the lymph nodes later flushed with the toxins out of the body.

Manual facial massage

Manual facial massage involves applying slightest pressure while massaging the facial muscles with hands. It’s one of the most simplest way to having a healthy skin.

How to do facial massage with hands?

  • Make sure you wash your face and your hands are clean.
  • Take a little amount of cream or serum you use in your palms.
  • Apply gentle pressure to massage face.
  • Massage lymph areas under the ears and side of neck.
  • Smooth the lines on forehead.
  • Use fingers to massage eye area and slide along temples.
  • Use only light strokes.

Directions to use in facial massage

  • Chin to lip.
  • Nose, nostrils and lips to cheekbones horizontally. To be precise along the smile lines.
  • Massage neck from bottom to chin vertically.
  • Eyebrows to forehead.

Massaging with facial roller

Facial rollers

A small roller pin like tool with rollers of different sizes on both ends. It’s used in facial massage and can be made out of gem stones.

Typically these rollers are used to distribute the facial care products over the face evenly. Also guarantees a deeper absorption into the skin.

Facts about rollers

  • Facial rollers cannot slim the face. Removing puffiness can temporarily make it appear slim.
  • Facial rollers can contour your face when using them up at an angle. Pushing the movement by down the ear.
  • They help flushing out the toxins, by stimulating lymphatic drainage. This achieved massaging in a particular direction.
  • Since it helps in destressing, it helps you in changing your mood.
  • Most importantly helps in deeper absorption of skincare products.

How to Massage using facial roller?

  • Generously apply serum or moisturizer. Lubrication is key else the roller might tag skin. This could even result in wrinkles.
  • Roll up from the neck. No back and forth movement.
  • From the jawline to ear. Apply gentle pressure on both sides.
  • Forehead to the temples. This should be done only in upward direction.
  • Horizontal over the eyebrows. Use it flatly.

How often and how long?

A facial roller can be used daily typically for a few minutes to get destressing benefits.

Types of facial roller

  • Jade
  • Rose quartz
  • Amethyst
  • Obsidian
  • Metal
  • Teak wood

Jade and rose quartz are most commonly used rollers. Jade and metal are cold natured materials. So in order to have a cooling effect they needn’t be stored in refrigerator.

Rose quartz can withhold temperature, so for cold massage you can store the roller in refrigerator.

Jade is soft in terms of fragility with respect to quartz, hence quartz can last longer without breaking if accidentally dropped down.

Jade isn’t smooth in terms of stone texture, which helps in contouring due to the natural friction present.

Of all the rollers mentioned above , amethyst is said to give the skin purifying effects and also effective in treating acne.

On a concluding note, a facial roller is a good investment for healthy looking skin.

I’m taking my blog to the next level with Blogchatter’s #MyFriendAlexa.

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Review of oils and herbal powder – Shesha beauty

Ayurveda and usage of herbs in skincare and haircare has been done generations past. Usage of herbs, concoctions to make oils and powders for cleansing and wellness has been there for ages.

I recently came across shesha beauty which has a wide range products for hair and skin which help you combat all skin and hair problems.

Their products are made of goodness of natural Ayurveda and from our very dear god’s own country , Kerala. It’s the brainchild of an ex-amazon engineer, Renji , who hails from a family of naturopaths and Ayurvedic Doctors. She missed the goodness of authentic Ayurvedic products from her very own land which gave birth to shesha’s evolution.

Their oils are cold pressed and all natural. The powders for face and hair are all from natural ingredients like tulsi, orange peel, rose petals and so on.

The products are 100% natural and cruelty free. They are free from paraben and sulphates which makes them skin and hair friendly.

Having a no stretch mark belly and a clear and healthy skin is all what women dream about. This combination of oils and powder from shesha will surely make your dream come true. I’d definitely say these are my postpartum saviours and a regular in my skincare regimen.

I tried a couple of their oils and powders for a really long period before I came up with my review.

Nalpamaradi tailam . Known as natural illuminator, this oil is used to illuminate skin and to remove tan. Helps clear scars, acne marks and uneven skin tone that causes pigmentation. Usage is really simple. Take the required amount and massage on to skin until it gets absorbed and leave on for half an hour. You can then wash off with mild soap. The oil is beneficial is removing scars, pigmentation and is all natural.

I started using this when I was pregnant and pigmentation was a problem that led to stress. The oil has been working well to remove blemishes.

Price : Rs .250 for 50ml

Dhanwantram tailam. Pre and post natal massage oil. A traditional oil that helps in alleviating pain, rejuvenates muscles and increase immunity this oil is apt for pre and post natal massages. These are period which require massaging of skin to improve elasticity and strengthening of muscles. Regular usage also reduces stretch marks effectively during and post pregnancy. Made from authentic Ayurvedic formulation this oil is made from all natural ingredients and is not so sticky when applied. The oil can be massaged until absorbed by skin and left for half an hour. This can be washed off with mild soap in a warm bath.

I’ve been using this regularly post delivery and trust me it’s been the best savior of postpartum recovery.

Price : Rs. 250 for 50 ml

Tejaswini face wash powder. Green gram Bengal gram are skincare secret ingredients passed on from generations. This face wash powder is soap free , and helps absorb oil and makes its oil free. Can be used as daily scrub for face and suited for all skin types. Helps prevent acne and blemishes updated n regular usage. What else does a girl need when there is an all natural face wash. Usage is making the powder into a paste with water or rose water applying on face , scrub for 15-20 seconds and wash off for all day glow.

I’ve been using this for about two months and feels so good to be back with grandma’s Skincare secret.

Ingredients : almond, green gram, bengal gram, orange peel powder, rose petal, aloe Vera, avarampoo, hibiscus.

Price : Rs. 399 for 50gm

Kasturi manjal powder . Known as wild turmeric this is a staple in all Indian households. A must have ingredient for natural Skincare, this powder helps protect skin from harmful radiation. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties which help fight acne causing bacteria. A lovely uplifting aroma arises when using this powder. Helps in removing blemishes and acne marks this powder also helps in increasing skin luminosity. When mixed with Coconut oil can be used for spot reduction of scars. When mixed with water can be applied on to face, massaging in circular motion and washed off with warm water.

Kasturi manjal is a staple in our routine from being a baby. It is incorporated into bath powders to reduce hair growth and keep skin healthy.

Ingredients : Wild turmeric, lemon, orange and tulasi leaves.

Price : Rs 399 for 50gms.

Extra virgin coconut oil . Made from 100% natural coconut milk, the oil is apt for haircare in treating dry and sensitive scalp. Helps boost volume and improve hair growth.

An excellent massage oil for babies with all natural nutrients. A natural makeup remover this can be used in daily Skincare routine. I’ve been using it for me and as well as my baby for regular oil massage.

Price : Rs 299 for 200 ml.

A 100% all natural and trusted brand where you can buy Ayurvedic products for skin, hair and body wellness from our god’s own country. You can shop them at https://www.sheshabeauty.com

Check out what seems has to say about jaggery and what Amritha has to about gardening.

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