Category: Book review

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Book review of Spiritual Anatomy

For someone who only knows about the number of chakras inside us. I’d say this book will be my ABC to learn more about it, how to locate it, and how to mitigate it. When we talk about well-being we often get to think and act only on physical and mental well-being.

But I used to wonder when people keep talking about spiritual wellness, what would that be and why is it being discussed by many? Well, this book made me understand why and why not I should give it a go. Gone are the days when we presumed spirituality talks were only for older people. This book changed my perception and if it is anything about wellness, I’m game.


When I started reading this book, it raised a lot of eyebrows. Being an avid reader, it has been habitual for me to carry it along, so the book traveled with me during cab rides, and play dates, and were not. So, when I mentioned raised eyebrows, it was all the presumed notion of why she is reading about spirituality at this age. I laughed it out, because rather than wasting time on explaining why to them, I’d rather enrich myself in the words of Daaji.
The book is divided into three parts – Read and Enjoy, Do and Feel, Meditate and Transcend. I was impressed when I read the introduction, the idea of consciousness to be taken on a journey fascinated me. The simple and natural process as explained by the author will promise you that you can achieve it.
Read and Enjoy: The chapters under this topic explore the significance of spiritual anatomy and the origin of the soul.
Do and feel: This section will give you an overview of heartfulness practice, and explain the chakras- their characters and tips to overcome limitations on consciousness.
Meditate and Transcend: Throughout the spiritual journey, it could be made easier with an atlas, as it gives you a picture of experiences and the conditions during the journey.


The sections ask Daaji and self-reflection to help you with a deeper understanding of what was learned, questions that would arise after learning through the chapter, and replies from Daaji on the same.


Heartfulness essential practices is my favorite chapter in the book where we learn techniques that evolve consciousness and ways to integrate the spirit into everyday life. The only things that are needed for you to get involved in these practices are your willingness and interest. All you need is just ten minutes in your day-to-day routine to include this practice.

The mere mention of the word inventure which translates to the inner adventure will convince you to take a chance on this amazing transformational path. A simple questionnaire from Daaji will help you to locate how far you have traveled in this inventure.


The book leads you on a path to sustainable joy. The book will encourage us to integrate our fragmented lives. Natural freedom and miraculous happiness can be discovered through awareness and meditation.


Daaji blends ancient wisdom and modern practices making spirituality accessible and relevant. The book also bridges the gap between spirituality, science and personality experience.

About the Author

Kamlesh D. Patel, affectionately known as Daaji, has been the global guide for the heartfulness movement since 2014. Daaji is the spiritual leader of Shri Ram Chandra, a meditation organization with practitioners in over 150 countries. He is also fourth in line of raja yoga (which is known as “royal yoga”). His followers include the president of India, Ram Nath Kovind. He is the author of numerous books, including USA Today Bestseller Heartfulness Way (New Harbinger, 2018) and Designing Destiny (Hay House, 2019).  While balancing his spiritual journey, Daaji was also a successful pharmacist in New York City, and is married with two sons.

Buy here.

This book review is part of Blogchatter’s book review program.

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5 must read books on Indian festivals

As much as I love teaching my kids about culture and tradition, there is nothing like a good old book that can help in making them understand much better. We live in a world where kids well at least some of them would not have access to experience the essence of the festivity’s books can help them understand the reason behind the celebration came into place, how to celebrate, and what preparations need to be done.


Here are some books that I came across and I’m sure you would enjoy some of them too.


FESTIVALS OF INDIA from Sonia Mehta’s Discover India series


The book unravels the vibrant tapestry of India’s diverse festivities. The book takes readers on a journey through all the festivities. With vivid descriptions and captivating illustrations, the book brings alive each festival from Holi and Diwali.


The Author weaves fascinating stories and legends associated with each festival. Through this, the children learn customs, traditions, and the joy of coming together to celebrate the festivals.


The book is perfect for little minds to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. The book strikes a perfect balance between information and entertainment.


FESTIVALS THROUGH THE YEAR by Rachna Chhabria


Through the eyes of twins, Natasha and Nikhil this book helps little minds explore the cultural heritage of the country and celebrate it.


Starting with Lohri in January to Christmas in December, Natasha and Nikhil explore festivals throughout the year.


The book is a treasure to cherish and revisit because of the detailed descriptions and wealth of information it contains about each of the festivals.


Young readers are introduced to rituals and joy associated with each festival along with explaining the significance.


Right from Holi to Diwali the child understands the traditions and customs.


Not only that Natasha and Nikhil record their experiences of the festivities on a blog.
Their observations add depth and authenticity to the storytelling.


AMMA, TELL ME ABOUT FESTIVAL series by Bhakti Mathur


This set is a lovely find for book readers. Fortunate to have had the chance to review these books, what caught my attention was the colorful illustrations, simple text, and engaging story narration.


Holi, Diwali, and Ramayana are the books in this series where the mother tells the children the story of how the festival came into existence.


Klaka and Kiki, the two siblings settle down for a story from Amma where she weaves a charming story on a delightful journey to celebrate Holi and Diwali.


SHE CELEBRATES


This book is an anthology of 21 stories by women across the world who are of Indian origin. Each of these stories has a backdrop of an Indian festival like Lohri, Sankranti, Teej, Onam, and Vishu to name a few. What I loved the most was the recipe at the end of each chapter associated with the festival. The illustrations were good too.


These are some of the books that had a festive background, caught my attention, and remain a favorite to me and my kids though these books were published long ago. But that’s what books are for right? To be remembered for time immemorial and to be revisited often.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘BookishCafeBloghop2024’ hosted by  Rakhi   and Samata Dey Bose .

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4 must read cookbooks in 2024

Cookbooks have found a special place in my TBR of late. Not only do I get to learn new recipes, I also get to understand different uses of each ingredient and even techniques of cooking them. Some cookbooks help you to plunge into a journey of holistic health. For a lot of people like me who want to start eating a healthy meal but not sure how to start or what to cook these books have contributed to handhold you and make you take that step towards a healthy life. Here are some cookbooks that I read recently and would love to share with my readers.

The no-waste kitchen cookbook by Arina Suchde

A practical and inspiring book to minimize food wastage and make delicious meals with minimal environmental impact is what Arina Suchde’s book No-waste Kitchen Cookbook is about. 75 lip-smacking recipes from fruit and vegetable scraps, leftovers, wilted greens, and other ingredients that are often thrown away are the star ingredients of these recipes. From soups, salads, curries, pizzas, desserts, and even cocktails that can be made with easy-to-make instructions and tips on how to store, preserve, and reuse food are very clearly given. Advice on smart shopping, effective composting, efficient meal planning, and adopting a zero-waste mindset in the kitchen are other topics discussed in this handbook.


Creative and tasty recipes helped me save money and also minimize food wastage are reasons why I love this book much making it a helpful and enjoyable read. Changing my habits and choices can bring a difference in the environmental and social impact of food wastage are other aspects that the book taught me. Beautifully illustrated the book is well-written and is recommended for anyone who loves cooking and wants to lead a sustainable life. The book is a very good starter for anyone who wants to lead a zero-wastage journey with 75 yummy and healthy recipes.

The Sattvik Kitchen: The Art and Science of Healthy Living by Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

The Sattvik Kitchen: The Art and Science of Healthy Living by Dr. Hansaji Yogendra is a transformative guide that explores the connection between food, health and well-being.


Overview:


An Internationally renowned yoga and wellness guru from The Yoga Institute, Dr. Hansaji Yogendra shares ancient wisdom and modern insights in this book.
The book focuses on Sattvik food practices, emphasizing what we eat and how, when, and why we consume it.


Key Themes:

  • Ayurvedic Wisdom: Dr. Hansaji reintroduces the age-old Ayurvedic remedies that address modern health issues.
  • Mindful Eating: The book stresses mindful eating combining knowledge about the right food with conscious consumption.
  • Vedic foods: Exploring the benefits of Vedic foods, the author provides evidence-based insights into their impact on our well-being.


Recipes and Wholesome delights


The book includes mouth-watering sattvik recipes that promote immediate and long-term health.
From wholesome grains to nourishing dairy the recipes celebrate the joys of food while supporting overall wellness.


Holistic approach:


Dr. Hansaji reminds us that we are both physically and emotionally shaped by what we eat.


By adopting sattvik food practices, one can embark on a journey towards good health, weight loss, and overall well-being.


It is not just a cookbook, but a holistic guide that reconnects us with the profound impact of food on our bodies and minds. Dr. Hansaji’s wisdom invites us to savor each meal as a step towards a healthier and happier life.

The India Cookbook: From the Tables of My Friends by Sunita Kohli

The India Cookbook: From the Tables of My Friends by Sunita Kohli is a delightful culinary journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian food.


Diverse Perspective:


Sunita Kohli’s collection of recipes showcases the immense variety of Indian cuisine.
Each region contributes its unique cooking methods, ingredients, and utensils, steeped in tradition and evolution.


Friendship and flavour:


The book features recipes from Sunita’s friends- across generations and walks of life.
From schoolmates to renowned personalities like Shashi Tharoor, Shabana Azmi, and Anita Ratnam the book celebrates warmth and camaraderie.


Comfort and Exoticism:


The book features familiar comfort foods like Pongal, Butter chicken, and kadhi pakora which evoke nostalgia.
Special dishes like sat saaag, Mohan maas, and baked crabs are also considered.


Cultural Tapestry


The India cookbook isn’t just about food, it’s also about friendships, culture, and the joy of sharing meals.
Whether at family gatherings or parties these recipes are sure to nourish the soul and the body.


In short, the book is a blend of tradition, friendship, and culinary artistry- a feast for food lovers and soul seekers alike.

The Indian Vegan: Easy Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Sonal Ved

The Indian Vegan: Easy Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Sonal Ved is a delightful culinary treasure trove that bridges the gap between traditional Indian flavors and modern plant-based living.


Veganism with Indian Twist:


Sonal Ved’s research into Indian cuisine reveals that no other culinary tradition aligns seamlessly with the vegan lifestyle as Indian cooking.
The book celebrates the abundance of plant-based ingredients found in Indian kitchens.


Inspiring recipes:


The book offers a diverse array of recipes from Ladakhi Chutagi to Nengal’s mocha’r ghonto.
Every dish covered in this book combines health, flavor, and cultural heritage.


Practical approach:


The book provides accessible recipes for both kinds such as a seasoned cook or a newbie to veganism.
For anyone seeking wholesome, delicious plant-based food this book is a must-have.


This book invites you to explore the intersection of taste. Health and compassion through the vibrant lens of Indian vegan cuisine.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with the Bohemian Bibliophile.

This post is part of the Bookish league blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.

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Transform Your Skincare Regimen with 82e: Insider Tips and Product Recommendations

In this post, we review two products from Deepika Padukone’s self-care brand 82◦E. The brand offers a range of high-quality, ethical products that include cleansers, masks, toners, sunscreens, and moisturizers. These products have carefully sourced ingredients, crafted and clinically tested for you to have a simple, joyful, and daily routine to care for your skin.

The brand works on the philosophy that combines the latest innovation with time-tested holistic practices that will help you commit to nourishing your mind, body, and soul through self-care rituals that are doable.

Lotus splash cleanser


LOTUS SPLASH – a gentle cleanser
Lotus Splash is a gentle cleanser that is made with lotus flower extracts and bioflavonoids. Lotus is a sacred flower, known for its purity, and its extracts have been used for ages in South Asian medicines. Lotus extract has been known to help improve skin elasticity and keep it firm. The potent anti-oxidant property will help boost the natural glow making it look healthy. It is a vegan cleanser that is gentle on the skin and helps remove dirt and impurities while keeping the skin soft and supple.


Bioflavonoids are found on rinds of green citrus fruits that help in fighting against free-radical damage that is caused by environmental stressors like pollution and harmful UV radiation. These bioflavonoids are rich in antioxidants that have the natural ability to reduce dark spots and keep your skin healthy and even-toned.


How to use it?


Apply a coin-sized amount to the wet face and neck. Massage in circular motion. Rinse and pat dry.

When to use?


The cleanser can be used in AM and PM routines.


How to store?


The product has to be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Manjishtha mud


MANJISHTHA MUD

Manjishtha Mud is a vegan clay mask enriched with Manjishtha and bioflavonoids. An ancient medicinal plant manjishtha has been used for ages as a blood purifier. Being rich in antioxidants the herb also helps to give younger-looking skin. Known for its earthy red-colored stems to be used as a dye, manjishtha is also known as Indian Madder.
It is a non-drying, clarifying mask that helps cleanse the pores and reduce excess oil effectively.


How to use it?


After cleansing, apply evenly onto the face. Avoid sensitive areas around the eyes. Once dried, wash off. Follow up with moisturizer.


When to use?


1-2 times a week.


How to store?


The product has to be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.


I have been including both these products into my skincare routine for the past two months and the results have been promising. Although the pricing I’d say is on the higher end, if you would look to try out luxury skincare for once, you might take a look at the other products the brand offers as well. The packaging was excellent and I was so happy with the order reaching you sooner than expected.


There have been no breakouts while using these products and the brand claims that the product is suited for all skin types. You can shop these products from their website which offers free shipping in India and express delivery to over 200 countries.


Ashwagandhas Bounce moisturiser, Turmeric shield sunscreen and Cucumber quench lightweight moisturizer are some of the other products that you can give a try.

I hope this post will benefit you and i would love to hear from you soon if you have any feedback.

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Book review – Attitude

BLURB

Have you ever stumbled upon a piece of life-changing knowledge that made you think: Why the hell didn’t someone tell me this sooner?!
Millions of people have listened to Adam Ashton and Adam Jones on the What You Will Learn podcast, where they have spent tens of thousands of hours studying the best ideas from the greatest minds on the planet. Their most frequently asked question: What is the best lesson you’ve come across? While you’d think a simple question would have a simple answer, it hasn’t-until now! Attitude: The Sh*t They Never Taught You will take you on a journey through takeaways from over a hundred of the world’s greatest thinkers, capturing lessons in personal development, career, business, personal finance, human nature, history and philosophy. Every lesson will be useful, and one might change your life. Remember, it is your attitude, not aptitude, that determines your altitude in life.

REVIEW



Divided into five parts this book- Attitude “” gives you an insight into thoughts from the world’s greatest philosophers. Vision, Change, learning, fear, and boldness are the five parts that help the readers reflect on their lives. The book not only gives a glimpse of the thoughts but also has real-life examples that make it much more relatable to the reader.


Following the Heart chapter gives you practical lessons from Paulo Coelho’s story that help mold you with the boldness that it requires to find our treasure. The link between Maslow’s hierarchy of needs with work is yet another interesting insight that the authors offer when it helps access where you are on the pyramid levels.
Deep practice helps you understand that small improvements one day at a time are what to look for rather than big improvements. Three rules help in learning a skill and are necessary for the deep practice to aid what needs to be followed and how it should be done.
It is not possible to read all self-help books all at once but this one here gives you concise insights from Alchemist, Peak and I am Malala. The writing style is brief and easy to comprehend. The narration is impactful and helps the reader make positive changes by taking charge of their lives.

Buy here.

This book review is part of blogchatters book review program.

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5 Curly Hair Products You Must Take On A Vacay!

Is your curl condition making you apprehensive about going on vacation? Maintaining gorgeous-looking curls, especially in different climates and unfamiliar environments, is a real challenge. Your curls may behave in an unruly manner, when you want them to look their best.
To maintain lush, juicy curls throughout your vacation, you should understand the special needs of your curls. Having the right curly hair products in your beauty aisle is crucial to slay the look on your special vacation clicks. Since you have limited space in your baggage, you should carry only the essential curly hair products. Experts recommend carrying travel-size and budget-friendly curly hair products, making your journey hassle-free.

Curly hair is more prone to dryness, frizz and damage because of the twists and turns in the
structure of the curls. The natural oil from the scalp cannot reach the tip because of its spiral
structure, making it prone to dryness. This blog will explore some curl care essentials that will
help you manage your curls and keep them looking fabulous while you enjoy your vacation.

5 Curly Hair Products You Must Take On A Vacay

Source : Freepik

It is necessary to provide a regular dose of hydration to your thirsty curls. Exposure to the sun, extreme climatic conditions, wind, humidity and chlorine water can affect curl health. To reduce the impact of these external factors on your curls, make sure you use the right curly hair products. Curlvana Curl Care Kit can be your best bet for this vacation as it offers everything from fortifying curl cleanser to styling gel to leave-in cream- a complete solution for curl care while you are on the go. Let’s find out the top 5 curly hair products you must take on vacation.

1. Curl Cleanser

Ensure that all the dirt, grime, and product buildup is eliminated to revive your curls. Curlvana Fortifying Curl Cleanser cleans your curls gently without stripping their natural oils, maintaining
the vibrancy and vitality of your curls. This fortifying curl cleanser fortifies your curls with vital
nutrients and adds strength and definition to your curls. So no more struggles with dry and rough hair while traveling.

2.Curl Conditioner

Source: Freepik

Replenish and hydrate your curls with Curlvana Curl Shine Conditioner from root to tip. It is a
must-have product in your travel bag. You can experience the magic of increased moisture
retention resulting in smooth, bouncy and well-defined curls throughout the day. This curl
conditioner won’t weigh down your curls, and you can enjoy a carefree look without worrying
about frizz and tangles.

3. Curls Leave-In Cream

A good leave-in cream can take your curl care game to the next level. Curlvana Leave-In Cream is your curl styling essential with no residue, giving a super hold to your tresses. Looking gorgeous in all your vacation snaps is non-negotiable, but with this leave-in cream, you can effortlessly flaunt your luscious locks.

4. Curls Styling Gel

Source :Freepik

Styling gel is essential to give a hold, bouncy and vibrancy to your curls. Define and sculpt your curls effortlessly with Curlvana Curl Defining styling gel. Embrace long-lasting, flexible hold and say goodbye to frizz. This styling gel perfectly balances control and movement by intensely hydrating your curls, giving them the shape and bounce they deserve.

5. Curls Hair Mask

If you are on a long holiday trip, carry a nourishing hair mask as a weekly curl care essential.
After days of traveling, relaxation and rejuvenation are all that your curls need. Let your curls relax by treating them with a Curlvana Deep Nourish hair mask. This decadent creamy hair mask intensely hydrates dry and rough curls, transforming them into lush, juicy ringlets.


With Curlvana Curl Care Kit, bad hair days will be a thing of the past while you are on the road.
Your curls will never be a hindrance to your enjoyment. Embrace your curls by giving them the little TLC which they deserve. Curlvana Curl Care Kit is a budget-friendly curly hair product formulated to take care of the special needs of your curly hair.

Frequently Answered Questions

How Can I Protect My Curly Hair While Travelling?


Protect your curls from bad hair days while traveling with Curlvana Curl Care Kit, which offers
curly hair products ranging from fortifying curls cleansers to leave-in conditioners to curl styling
gel.


How Do You Deal With Frizzy Hair On Vacation?


Use a deep conditioner or a hair mist specially designed to tame frizz and manage your curly
hair. You can always use Curlvana Leave in cream or styling gel to do the job.


How Often Should I Use A Deep Conditioner While On Vacation?

Deep conditioner should be used once a week to sculpt and define your curls.


Which Ingredients Are Best For Curly Hair?


Argan oil, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Fermented Rice Water Extract, and Shea Butter are some natural ingredients beneficial for curly hair.

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Are You Doing Scalp Care right? Here Are 5 Ways To Get A Healthy Scalp!

Most of us have a tailored skincare and haircare routine to keep our skin and hair in good shape. Similarly, scalp care is essential to a healthy hair care routine, yet many people neglect it or are unaware of the right way to do it. With the proper scalp care, you can prevent hair problems such as scalp eczema, dandruff, dry and itchy scalp, thus promoting hair growth and improving the vitality of your hair. From using the right shampoo to massaging techniques to dry scalp treatment, there are many things you can do to give your scalp the TLC it deserves. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of scalp care to ensure you are doing it right.

What Is The Importance Of Scalp Care?

Healthy hair adds charm to your overall personality, but where is this hair seated? It’s on the hair follicles present on the scalp. The scalp is the augmentation of your facial skin; hence, scalp care is an extended skincare regime. A healthy and problem-free scalp is the prerequisite for healthy hair growth. How can you expect healthy hair to grow on an unhealthy scalp? Your scalp is like soil; if the soil is fertile, healthy plants, in this case, healthy and buoyant hair, will grow on it. The base is where nutrition begins for healthy hair. A healthy, hydrated, and A well-nourished scalp will make your hair more lustrous and strong. Hence scalp care is vital in
promoting the growth of healthy and vibrant hair.
Hydration, nourishment, and scalp stimulation are required to keep the scalp healthy. A lot of
dirt, debris, dead skin cells and buildup accumulate on the scalp, which needs to be eliminated from the scalp to have a clean scalp. A clean scalp will only promote the growth of healthy hair.
So with proper scalp care, keep your scalp problem-free, clean, and hydrated.

Hydration, nourishment, and scalp stimulation are required to keep the scalp healthy. A lot of
dirt, debris, dead skin cells and buildup accumulate on the scalp, which needs to be eliminated from the scalp to have a clean scalp. A clean scalp will only promote the growth of healthy hair.
So with proper scalp care, keep your scalp problem-free, clean, and hydrated.

What Does A Healthy Scalp Look Like?

Your scalp is covered with hair, sometimes making it difficult to assess your scalp condition. A healthy scalp is free from dryness, itchiness, flakes, patches, and any signs of infection. It is clean, hydrated, and well-nourished. There should be no signs of buildup on your scalp. You can achieve a well-hydrated, well-nourished, and problem-free scalp with proper scalp care.

Are You Doing The Scalp Care Right?

Just like skincare and haircare, scalp care also depends on the type of scalp skin. You choose
skincare products according to your skin type, similarly, choose your scalp care products
according to your scalp type. Your scalp care should work in synergy with your scalp type. For oily scalp, shampooing your hair twice or thrice is advisable. Similarly, if you have a dry, flaky scalp, then scalp cleansing is required 2-3 times a week to eliminate flakes and dead skin cells from the scalp surface. Below mentioned are five ways to get a healthy scalp.

1. Keep Your Scalp Clean

The first step in scalp care is to keep it clean. Regular shampooing removes dirt, oils, and
product buildup, allowing the scalp to breathe. The accumulated gunk can clog the pores of the hair follicles, thus disrupting normal hair growth. Choose scalp shampoo that is gentle on your scalp, free from sulfates and parabens, and suitable for your hair type. Use a clarifying scalp shampoo every fortnight to clear the scalp of all the debris.

2. Invest In A Good Scalp Scrub

Regular exfoliation is another primary step in any scalp care routine. It helps to improve blood circulation, ensuring an ample supply of vital nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, thus improving the vitality of the hair. Scalp exfoliation helps stimulate the hair follicles, thus promoting healthy hair growth.

If you are struggling with a dry and flaky scalp, exfoliate your scalp twice a week with
ThriveCo’s Exfoliating Scalp Scrub, as it contains gentle exfoliating hydroxy acids, essential oils such as orange peel oil, and patchouli oil, which provides relief from the inflamed and itchy scalp. This scalp scrub does its job efficiently by eliminating product buildup, debris, and dead skin cells from the scalp, thus reviving and rejuvenating your scalp for improved hair growth.
Regular scalp exfoliation facilitates better absorption of nutrients from haircare products, thus improving their efficacy.

3. Hydrate your scalp

Your scalp contains sebaceous glands that secrete oil, which lubricates the scalp and hair. The natural oil in the scalp prevents scalp dryness, maintaining the hydration level of your scalp.
Dry scalp conditions such as scalp eczema, scalp psoriasis and dandruff worsened when the scalp gets dehydrated. You can consult a derm to know more about the dry scalp treatments available for your scalp type to eliminate scalp dryness. Using a scalp hydrating and nourishing serum 3-4 times a week helps to improve scalp health. To keep your scalp in optimal condition, restrain from using hot water to wash your hair. It can strip the natural oils from your scalp and
make it dry and flaky.

4. Boost Blood Circulation

Massaging your scalp is the most effective way to stimulate hair follicles. You can use ThriveCo
Scalp Vitalizing Serum to boost scalp health for added scalp care benefits.

It improves blood circulation and provides nourishment for the hair follicles. It is power-packed with active ingredients such as copper peptides, pea protein, and advanced HA to revive and rejuvenate your scalp, promoting the healthy growth of hair.

5. Avoid Heat and Chemicals

Heat styling and chemical treatments can damage the scalp and hair, leading to dryness and breakage. Limit heat styling and choose chemical treatments wisely, opting for gentler options whenever possible.


Embracing healthy scalp care habits such as protecting your scalp from the sun, keeping your body hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding stress help in the long run to maintain a head full of hair.


By incorporating these five simple steps into your scalp care routine, you can effectively
maintain a clean, nourished, and flake-free scalp. Remember to be patient and consistent, as it may take time to see results. With a healthy scalp, you will be well on your way to achieving luscious, beautiful locks

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C’s in Indian women fashion

Being a unique blend of traditional and modern styles Indian women’s fashion has evolved over the years. Intricate designs, craftsmanship, and vibrant colors make it stand out distinctly. Let us take a look at Indian women’s fashion in ‘C’.

Churidar

Image source Flipkart


Originating in North India, the churidar is bottom wear, which is worn with kameez or a tunic. Characterized by its tight fit near the ankle, it uses extra fabric to be gathered around the ankle. A churidar is a versatile outfit that can be worn for both formal and casual events. It can be stitched with cotton, silk, or chiffon and to add that touch of elegance it can be embellished with sequins or embroidery.


A modest and conservative garment that covers the leg, the churidar is loved by women from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other south Asian countries. It is a comfortable and easy-to-move-around attire.

Chanderi silk

Image source Jaypore


Handwoven by artisans in the town of Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, chanderi silk is a fabric that is a combination of cotton threads and silk. Unparalleled quality, exquisite texture, and intricate designs make it a luxurious fabric that is known for its sheer texture and lightweight that makes it stand apart distinctly.


The soft and delicate feel makes it perfect for weaving comfortable garments. The history dates to the 7th Century, wherein the artisans spun the thread to yarn, dye them with vibrant colors, and then weave them into the fabric. Highly coveted for its intricate design and graceful drape, the chanderi silk often uses zari which is a metallic thread that adds to the glamour of the drape.


Elegant and sophisticated evening wear can be made because of the natural sheen, but since it’s also lightweight, it can be suited to make daily or casual wear garments as well. Such is the versatility of the fabric. The fabric can be woven into sarees, salwar, and lehenga.

Chikankari

Image source meesho


An embroidery technique that comprises intricate handmade designs being stitched onto lightweight airy fabrics is chikankari which originates from the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a traditional embroidery style derived from the Persian word ‘chikan’ which means embroidery. It is usually done on lightweight fabrics like silk, muslin, and cotton.


Initially brought to India by the Persians, the technique was later adopted by the Mughals who used it to make garments for the nobility who made it an art form, so we could also say that the chikankari art flourished during the Mughal Era. Now it is a widely practiced embroidery technique that is also loved by the general population.


Floral motifs, paisleys, and geometric designs are some of the intricate patterns of embroidery that are done on the fabric. Mostly done in white or pastel colors the light weight of the fabric is the distinct feature of the chikankari which makes it perfect to be worn in summer. Its, crisp finished texture gives it a sophisticated look.


It takes days to finish making a garment because the process is highly labor-intensive because needs delicate embroidery which is one of the reasons that the fabric or garment is on the expensive side.

This post is part of #blogchatterA2Z 2023.

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Book review of ‘Tiny habits massive results’

BLURB

“7 (plus a pro-habit) Tiny Everyday Habits that have a Powerful Impact on our Lives Other than the random element of luck, what differentiates successful people from the rest are their Habits. They cultivate certain habits which contribute to their happier and healthy life. Learning these habits and how to use them in your life is rewarding. In this book, you will learn about simple yet impactful lifestyle habits that separate achievers from regular people. These tiny habits have a transformative effect on your physical and mental health, career, your relationships, and life.

REVIEW

Self-help books always have a special corner when I’m choosing books for my next read or to be added to my TBR. Especially when it is a book concerning habits then there is no looking at blurb I simply pick it up and start reading it.


This book ‘Tiny habits massive results ‘ by Jaishree Nenwani is the first by an Indian author that I picked up centred around habits.
Habits truly define the person that we are. And they are also the things that make you stand apart from other around us. Leading a healthy and happy life is not just about food and exercise but also the habits that you’ve cultivated over a period of time.


When you meet someone and you get inspired make sure you also get to know what is that one thing that makes them stand apart which would ultimately be the habits that form their lifestyle. Make sure to see if you can incorporate them into yours.


The author gives you tips on how to include them and make them part of your routine. These tips are simple ways to bring in a change to our lifestyle to lead a healthy and happy life. Though they might be tiny habits but the changes they bring in is massive.


Processing grief was a major problem that I was facing a year back. But I attribute the small changes that I brought in which helped me manage the grief processing. If you are someone who is still yet to dive into the inclusion of new habits in your routine, do not worry. Jaishree will handhold you with starting to explain what is a habit, why is it important to develop them, how to form one and the seven habits that are going to have a great impact on your life. As a pro tip she gives you an extra edge with a tip that’s actually the cherry on top for which you will have to pick the book.


Explaining the seven habits the author not only let’s you know how important it is to include that habit but also ways on how you can make it part of your regular routine so that you don’t miss doing it each day. I loved how she chose to keep it simple by citing instances from her life which would make it more relatable when you read through the book.


Overall, if you are a beginner or a pro looking at making changes in life by bringing in new habits I’d suggest this book will be your guide to discover a new you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jaishree is a millennial blogger curating inspired wisdom that guides people to go deep and make a shift in their thoughts. She is passionate about journaling and loves to share wisdom and journaling tools that invoke deeper authenticity and Personal transformation. On her blog (https://getsethappy.com) she writes about Self-improvement, Personal growth and ways to become happier in your life.

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Zero day – Book review

BLURB

Mumbai is in a state of chaos. All traffic signals across the entire city have stopped working.

Shahwaz Ali Mirza, head of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad, receives an anonymous email claiming it to be a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. He quickly puts together a crack team that includes his protege, IG Cybercrime Vikrant Singh, and gets to work trawling the dark web for more information on this mystery attack. However, a move to bring forward the hacker backfires, leading to a second, deadlier attack on Mumbai’s lifeline, the railway system.

It is their first brush with cyberterrorism: a zero-day vulnerability in the Indian government’s system that could bring the country to its knees. Racing against time and investigating a case unlike any other, in Zero Day, Mirza and Vikrant face the most dangerous mission of their lives

REVIEW

I love reading crime novels. Especially the pace they pick up after a few chapters and the urge they give me to complete it sooner. The novel Zero-day by Hussain Zaidi gives you a lot of twists turns and edge-of-seat moments.


In a busy city like Mumbai, a cyber attack is getting the city to a standstill. What would be the problem? More than physical terror, this time everything goes digital. A hacking attempt into the city’s traffic system brings the city to chaos.

The ATS chief received an anonymous email on the threat and the subsequent actions were taken by his team with occurrences of politics, and a wee bit of romance making it an interesting read.


Trying to find the identity of the hacker, to handling a national emergency situation in a smart way the book has its own nuances by the author with which he keeps the reader engaged. The language is simple and also makes the situations nail-biting through the narration. Characters Mirza and Vikrant had great bonding that helped in cracking the mystery. A crisp power-packed story that definitely would keep mystery lovers engaged.

Buy the book here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

S.. Hussain Zaidi is one of the most prolific crime writers in India. The investigations into the Mumbai mafia that he has conducted in books such as Dongri to Dubai, Mafia Queens of Mumbai and My Name is Abu Salem are among the finest investigative reporting of all time.

As the Resident Editor of the newspaper The Asian Age, Zaidi began his career in journalism. He then worked for several other publications, including The Indian Express, Mid Day, and Mumbai Mirror. Authors like Misha Glenny in McMafia and Vikram Chandra in Sacred Games drew on his in-depth research into the Mumbai mafia for their works. Adrian Levy, the author of books like The Meadows on Kashmir terrorism and The Siege on 26/11 attacks, consults him on a variety of subjects.


His reporting on the Mumbai mafia has spanned decades. Black Friday, written in 2002, is a book about the 1993 Mumbai bombings, which had 13 explosions and caused 250 deaths. Two years later, in 2004, Anurag Kashyap adapted the book into a film also titled Black Friday. As a result of the controversy surrounding the film, the Indian Censor Board refused to allow its release in India for three years, and the Supreme Court of India eventually allowed its release after a unanimous judgment in the Bombay blasts case delivered by TADA court.

Zaidi conducted an interview with the suspected bombing mastermind Dawood Ibrahim for the book Dongri to Dubai: Six Decades of the Mumbai Mafia, a history of the Mumbai mafia involving the Mumbai mafia. In 2012, Sanjay Gupta adapted the book into the film Shootout at Wadala.


Phantom, the 2015 film starring Saif Ali Khan and Katrina Kaif, is based on Zaidi’s book Mumbai Avengers, and the screenplay for it was written with Zaidi’s assistance.



As an associate producer, he worked on the HBO documentary Terror in Mumbai, which tells the story of the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.

The book review is part of blogchatter’s book review program.