WELCOMING WINTER

  

                           

 

Winter is on its way

With long nights and short day

With chilled winds of fragrant clay

On lovely cold nights, stay in the fireplace way

With the joy of being around pets and their nay-nay!

 

 Winning winter in all hot way

Hot coffee, hot toast, or a hot soup

Vapours pour out in whatever we say

Wearing thermals, gloves, and what may

Cold and chilled are the days on the way.

 

Working in winter is a tight way to say

Setting comfy with a coffee and a book

Enjoying through the winter window

A well-wished way to witness Nature Play

Welcoming winter with a wish and a pray

 

Welcoming winter with a bouquet & a song

Wild cold immerses us in wine & white snow

With the oven smelling too good colours of cakes

Watching all the stack of pantry with cool eyes

Welcoming winter with both nay and yay!

 

AVERSION TOWARDS CERTAIN GENRE OF BOOKS

    

 

Romance, classic, and poetry books are at the top of the list in popularity among readers worldwide. You are far more likely to find classic books in the homes of bibliophiles.

Some people who are more practical and realistic in their approach to life may be less attracted to fiction. 

Observant individuals – those who pride themselves on their practical, realist approach to life – were unsurprisingly less attracted to fiction than their Intuitive (open-minded and visionary) counterparts.

Some readers shun sex scenes and salty language. Some readers pass on plots around health issues, injustice or domestic violence. If a book slips through some subject that may trigger their emotion, it becomes a reason to hate the book.

 Apart from these, generally, Readers may avoid books of other genres for several reasons, including:

Fear of losing interest

Readers may feel like they've read everything a genre has to offer and that it's time to try something new. 

Preference for a specific type of storytelling

Readers may gravitate towards a specific genre, such as mystery, romance, or fantasy. 

Disliking a particular genre

Readers may find some genres, such as self-help or other than favourite ones to be unappealing. 

 

Like these, there are or may be many more reasons for the aversion towards a genre. Anyhow choice of genres is completely personal to the reader.

What do you say? Do you have any aversion towards a particular genre? Do share it in the comments.

IS IT BETTER TO HANG OR FOLD SAREES

   

 

Sarees for everyday wear are a respectful and elegant choice for those who want to embrace local traditions. However, it's essential to choose sarees that are easy to drape and manage, especially for those who are new to wearing them. Lightweight cotton sarees and simple prints are the best options

 Sarees are made of natural fibers like cotton, silk, etc. These natural materials may develop mildew patches if not properly cared for. Sarees should not be stored in plastic covers. Wrap the saree in brown paper or store them in fabric saree bags.

BETTER TO HANG OR FOLD SAREES:

It is always advisable to hang lightweight sarees made up of chiffons, georgettes, crepe, or even cotton. These fabrics get crumpled if stacked, so hanging them is ideal. Sarees like pure pattu/silk, organza, or hand-weaved sarees should not be hung as they tend to get torn at the folds.

Hanging sarees can help minimize wrinkles. Cotton sarees tend to develop creases when folded for an extended period. By hanging them, you can reduce the need for ironing or steaming before wearing them.

 However, hanging sequin sarees can be tricky, as the sequins can get caught on the hanger and cause damage. Folding sarees is another option, and it is a great way to save space in your wardrobe.

The best possible way to avoid sarees from wrinkling often is to hang them on a hanger made of wood. Some sarees are premium enough to be hanged, then is better to just fold them delicately.

Silk sarees should be hung up on sturdy wooden or plastic hangers. Avoid using metal or alloy since the rust on the hangers may create stains.

It is advisable to fold your silk sarees properly and store them in cotton or muslin cloth. You should avoid storing your silk sarees in plastic covers as it can attract moisture and damage your saree.

Fold the sarees in the opposite direction every time you take them out to air to avoid tearing in the folds. Hanging silk sarees on hangers can damage them in folds, store them in a cupboard if you have space. And stack only a few sarees together, too many will damage the sarees in the bottom with all that weight.

Start by laying the saree flat on a clean surface. Fold the saree in half, then in half again, making sure the edges are similar. Gently twist the folded saree from one end to the other to form a tight bundle. Acid-free tissue paper can help protect the saree fabric from discoloration and acid damage.

Ideally, you should wrap the saree in a muslin cloth and stack it in a cold dry place unexposed to light and heat. Wrapping your sarees make sure that their intricate zari works do not oxidise from reacting with air. You can use silica gel sachets to keep the storing area free of moisture.

Always store your silk sarees in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the colors to fade and the silk fibers to weaken. Use soft muslin cloths or cotton fabric to wrap your sarees. This helps prevent dust and insects from damaging the delicate fabric.

Above all, Whether to hang or fold a saree depends on the fabric, how often it's used, and how much storage space you have: 

Lightweight sarees

Hang lightweight sarees made of chiffon, georgette, crepe, or cotton to prevent them from crumpling. Hanging can also reduce the need for ironing or steaming. 

Delicate sarees

Use padded hangers to store delicate sarees made of silk or chiffon. The padding prevents indentations or marks on the fabric. 

Hand-weaved sarees

Fold hand-weaved sarees instead of hanging them as they can tear at the folds. 

Infrequently used sarees

Fold sarees that aren't worn often to save space and protect them from dust and light. 

Sequin sarees

Use padded hangers to prevent the saree from slipping off and to maintain the shape of the blouse and petticoat. 

Limited storage space

Fold sarees to save space and keep them organized and easily accessible. 

When hanging sarees, make sure to distribute the weight evenly along the hanger and hang them loosely to allow for air circulation. 

Finally, the choice is yours whether to hang or fold the sarees as it depends on your convenience.

NOSE RINGS : A UNIQUE PATH TO SELF -EXPRESSION AND MENTAL HEALTH

  

 Between 700 BC and 400 AD, nose rings were common in the region spanning Southwest Asia to North Africa. These accessories were more than just decorative items; they often represented a person's social standing or wealth and could even be given as part of a marriage agreement.

The practice, performed for symbolic or beautification purposes, originated more than 4000 years ago in the Middle East, migrating to India in the 1500s and reaching Western civilization by the 20th century.

Understanding these cultural perspectives helps us appreciate their importance better. Nose pins symbolize the rich cultural heritage of India. They signify a woman's marital status and are often worn as a sign of commitment and tradition. Diamond nose pins add a touch of elegance to this ancient tradition.

Nose rings hold diverse cultural significance, symbolizing elements such as marital status, beauty enhancement, rebellion against Western culture, and devotion to deities in various cultures around the world.

Regional preference

In India, the location of a nose ring can indicate a person's region of origin. In South India, the right nostril is the preferred side for a nose ring, while in North, West, and Central India, the left nostril is more common. Some get both sides pierced and wear different designs on each.

Cultural significance

Nose rings are a cultural practice and a form of self-expression in India. They can have many meanings, including representing a person's identity, tradition, and marital status.  For some people, a nose piercing holds cultural significance and is a way to connect with their heritage. For example, in some cultures, a woman is expected to remove her nose ring after becoming a widow. 

Age and coming of age

In many parts of India, young girls get their noses pierced as a rite of passage when they transition from childhood to young adulthood. 

Nose ornament styles:

There are many different types of nose ring designs, from classic to contemporary to elaborate. Some popular styles include the mookuthi, a simple ring, or a natural diamond solitaire. More elaborate styles include the cashew-shaped Maharashtrian nath, the North Indian latkan or nathani, the stud (laung/phul), and the septum (bulak). According to Hindu philosophy, Nose piercing has a great religious significance as well. It is a way of honouring Goddess Parvati.   In South India, nose pins are also worn for spiritual reasons.

Personal style: A nose piercing can be a way to express one's style and individuality.  Beyond its historical and cultural roots, nose piercing holds a powerful symbolism that speaks to the essence of self-expression. Just as clothing, hairstyles, and tattoos are forms of self-representation, nose piercing allows individuals to communicate their identity and values to the world.

For some, wearing a nose ring or stud may be considered attractive as it can add a personal touch and unique style. However, for others, wearing a nose ring or studs may not be considered attractive, as aesthetic opinions vary from person to person.

Here are some other reasons why nose rings were important in ancient India:

Association with the female reproductive organs

In Ayurveda, it is said that piercing on the left nostril helps reduce menstrual pain and lessens the difficulty of childbirth so great from a medicinal point of view.

Connection to the goddess Parvati

In Hindu tradition, the nath symbolizes marriage and fertility and is connected to the goddess Parvati, who is often depicted wearing a Nath, particularly in her form as Kanyakumari, where a natural diamond nose jewel shines brilliantly from the southern tip of India.

It is located in the place where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal all meet together. However, the town has much special spiritual significance. It is regarded as the home place for virgin Goddess Kanya Kumari and as an incarnation of the divine Mother Goddess Parvati.

One specialty of the idol is her diamond nose ring. The sparkling diamond nose-ring of the deity is said to be visible even from the sea. The temple's legend says that the nose ring was obtained from a king cobra and that light reflects off it so brightly that once an ancient mariner mistook it for a lighthouse.

Part of bridal attire

Nose rings were essential to bridal attire and often worn during weddings.   In Muslim culture also, the nose ring is considered very auspicious and an essential marriage ornament to be worn by all Muslim brides.

Many say that nose piercings are not part of Islam. They are a form of piercing seen in mostly Middle Eastern and South Asia that women get done to beautify themselves.

Different designs for different occasions:

There were different designs of nose rings for everyday wear and special occasions. For example, a simple nose pin might be worn for everyday wear, while a more intricate one might be worn for special occasions. Nose rings have been passed down through generations and are an integral part of Indian culture. 

 SCIENCE BEHIND NOSE RINGS: As per the studies, nose piercing regulates the wavelength of the brain which results in easier handling of mental health and stability.

Significance of Wearing Nose Rings: - Nose piercing is an important custom that is followed by Indian women. In the Hindu religion, there is no strict restriction on wearing the nose stud as in the case of a mangalsutra. Therefore, both married as well as unmarried women can wear a nose stud.

NOSE RINGS AROUND THE WORLD:

Various indigenous tribes in America, Australia, South America, and India associate nose rings with warrior culture. The traditional bone septum piercing in Australia made one look more intimidating, for example. In South American tribes, nose rings could signify one's ranking or victory in battle.

Yes, nose rings are worn around the world, and they have many different cultural meanings and traditions: 

Nepal: In Nepal, the septum piercing is known as Bulaki and is worn by women of many ethnic groups. In the southern region of Nepal, it is still common for older women to wear both a septum and left nostril ring. 

Bangladesh: In Bangladesh, the septum piercing is popular in the countryside. 

Solomon Islands, Irian Jaya, and Papua New Guinea: In these areas, it is customary to wear tusks as jewelry. 

Western countries: Nose rings became a trend in Western countries in the 1980s, with the introduction of punk artists. 

USA: Nose piercings became more mainstream after celebrities, influencers, and musicians began showcasing them. 

 After reading all these, still you have a doubt about the Relevance of nose rings in today’s fashion.

Yes, nose rings are still relevant in today's fashion. Nose rings are a top choice in body jewelry and are considered a timeless accessory that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. 

Fashion influencers and celebrities

Celebrities and fashion influencers have helped popularize nose rings in mainstream fashion. 

Personal style expression

Nose rings are a way to express individuality and personal style. 

Body positivity

Nose rings can contribute to the body positivity movement by challenging conventional notions of beauty. 

Cultural significance

Nose rings have been an important part of Indian tradition and other cultures around the world for thousands of years. 

Versatility

Nose rings come in a variety of styles, from minimalist designs to more elaborate styles. 

When wearing a nose ring, it's important to be aware of and honor the cultural relevance and practice attached to nose piercings. 

NOSE RINGS & MEN

Nose piercing has transcended gender norms, with more men embracing this form of body modification.  Nose piercings add a unique touch to a man's appearance, allowing them to express their individuality and style.

They might symbolize freedom, going against societal norms, or even spiritual convictions. By wearing nose rings as part of their personal style, people explore the various meanings these pieces hold.

Absolutely! Nose rings look good on any nose, just like earrings look good on any ears.

Nose Piercings in Today's World that means besides being fashionable, nose piercings may offer acupressure perks as well. On the other hand, body enhancements such as having a nose ring can increase self-esteem and confidence in their own body leading to improved mental health.

What do you say?  Do you like it? Do you wear a nose ring? Do share it in the comments below.

(This blog post is a part of #Blogaberycreativechallenge for the prompt of November. More details here: https://www.blogaberry.com/miscellaneous/the-blogaberry-creative-monthly-challenge/)

YES ! NO TO SWEETS FOR YOUR WELL BEING

     

 

 

 

The festival had just ended, but loads of sweets, snacks, chocolates, and dry fruits seemed to be everywhere in the house, inviting us to taste them one after the other.

In this situation, we need to be well informed of the many benefits of reducing or cutting out sugar. This will make us to be healthier in the long run.

Remembering these benefits will help us in minimizing the intake of sugary products.

Weight loss: Reducing sugar intake can help you lose weight and prevent obesity. 

Improved mood: You may feel happier, less anxious, and less depressed. 

Better skin: Your skin may glow and you may be less likely to get skin cancer. 

Reduced risk of disease: You may have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. 

Better sleep: Excess blood sugar can disrupt sleep, but cutting down on sugar can help you sleep better. 

Improved digestion: A high-sugar diet can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, but cutting out sugar can help restore that balance. 

Healthier teeth: Avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help prevent tooth decay and plaque buildup. 

Better cognitive function: You may experience better memory recall and focus. 

Reduced inflammation: Reducing sugar intake may help reduce inflammation. 

Slower aging: You may age more slowly. 

Better breath: You may have better breath. 

 These festival times are the testing time for us to have control over our food. Giving in to a craving may feed the addiction. If you manage to resist, the cravings will get weaker over time and eventually disappear. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people keep their intake of free sugars below 10% of their total energy needs. For additional health benefits, they recommend reducing it to less than 5%. 

Follow a healthy diet and healthily celebrate festivals in the years to come.

WELCOME THE NEW MONTH WITH A BRIGHT OUTLOOK

   

A new month has begun...

Wishing you a beautiful month ahead, my love. May it be as bright and beautiful as your smile. I want to begin the new month by sending love and happiness to all my friends and loved ones. May you find peace and all that you hoped for.

Like these, there are many messages many send to their loved ones. There is one superstitious practice that is observed at the start of every month;

"Rabbit rabbit rabbit" is a superstition found in Britain and North America wherein a person says or repeats the words "rabbit", "rabbits" and/or "white rabbits" aloud upon waking on the first day of a month, to ensure good luck for the rest of it. Reach here to know more about this.

Another one is: In response to 'pinch, punch, first of the month,' some will respond with 'white rabbits, no return' to avoid any more back-and-forth.

Though you may not practice such things, you can simply pray.

You can pray for different things, such as success, peace, joy, or financial breakthroughs. 

Every day is a chance to begin again. Don't focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations.

Let this new month bring great miracles, new adventures, incredible breakthroughs, new visions & greater blessings for you & your loved ones.”

 

Do you practice any particular ritual or any other superstitious practice followed anywhere, do share it in the comments

MY GRADUAL PROGRESS WITH GRAPHIC NOVELS

  

  

 

October is almost at the end and my month-long effort to write a blog post for Blogchatter’s monthly #TBR activity was somewhat fruitful. Read along to know more about it.

Graphic novels were the prompt for the month of October, I’m a bit away from the genre. The day before yesterday read a blog post about – PERSEPOLIS, about which I know only the thing that the title refers to the ancient capital of Persian Empire and nothing more.

Being like this, it was a herculean task for me to write a blog post on such a subject with which I was not familiar. So I thought to start from the origin/beginning and went out to fetch a book that deals with graphic novels and their development.

At this juncture, THE POWER OF COMICS – HISTORY, FORM, AND CULTURE by Randy Duncan, Matthew J. Smith & Paul Levitz caught my eye in the library. This I felt like a boon and started reading it slowly. Actually very slowly trying to understand the information clearly. Here I will be sharing the particulars of graphic novels from the book. 

The book has a preface by Mark Waid. In which he takes the readers on a trip down memory lane and explains how the indisputable fact “Comics were no longer just for kids” came into being.

What are those three works that created this impact was also shared in detail for the readers.

Moving then, to the Pulitzer Prize of 1992 for Art Spiegelman’s graphic novel “Maus”

From the introduction of the book, I quote   In recent times several people have attempted to rehabilitate the image of comic books by using a different term, Graphic novel, to describe the more ambitious works in the art form. For creators, labeling their work a graphic novel allows them to distance themselves from the commercial and periodical connotations associated with comic books.

For publishers, the graphic novel is a term that helps elevate the status of their product and has allowed them entree into bookstores, libraries, and academy. In practice, graphic novels may be longer than the typical comic book and most often feature self–contained, rather than continuing, stories.

While we too use that term in this book, you may well note that the graphic novel needs the definition of the comic book form. While they might be considered manifestations of the same art form, a case could be made that graphic novels exist in a different cultural space and are thus becoming their medium distinct from comic books.

IN the 21^st century, graphic novels are often published by major publishing houses such as Random House and brought into traditional or online bookstores by people who do not read comic books. A number of them are even created by cartoonists who are not comic book fans.”

Appreciating the originality of the art form; understanding historical significance; and visualizing the medium's potential are the gains of studying comics assures this book.

The book provides vast information on the era of the invention of comics and RODOLPHE TOPFFER – the father of the comic book.

Next, it talks about the modern comic book, super imitators, EC comics, ‘NewTrend”, Schwartz, and the fans.

 Crossing all these the book lands at the rise of the graphic novel. I quote from page 64 :

In 1978, Will Eisner’s A CONTRACT WITH GOD, distributed in both bookstore chains and direct market comic book shops in traditional hardcover and trade paperback formats, garnered wide attention and firmly established graphic novel as the term for a longer comics work with literary intent.

In the same chapter, the authors discuss the Era of the graphic novel?  Replying to this, I quote ‘By the beginning of the 21^st century, it was likely that more readers were purchasing comics in graphic novel form than in periodicals although the intense purchase patterns of the fans still generated disproportionate revenues.”

Then the book throws light on analyzing graphic novels in the mainstream market. Moving ahead, the authors make the readers understand the effect of the graphic novel.  I quote “Miller’s Groundbreaking work on Batman: The Dark Knight Returns and the commercial and critical success in graphic novel form in turn inspired others. By the late 1980’s a small number of graphic novels were being published with ever-increasing creative ambition.”

Beyond the Graphic novel Via the Web was the next topic of discussion in the book.  Later the explanation is given for Graphic “Novels”- The quotation marks around the term novels is an acknowledgment that the term novel has traditionally referred to works of fiction, but it is being applied to memoir, a form of non-fiction.

Finally, the book covers- The Evolution of Comics in India by Gotham Chopra and Sharad Devarajan.

The book is as engaging as any other fiction book. Not only fans but also new entrants to the world of graphic novels should go through this book to gain a stand over the lost time.

 (This blog post is a part of Blog Chatter's #TBRChallenge- prompt for October, Details here)

WHAT MAKES DIWALI SPECIAL IN INDIA?

    

 

Diwali is the most important festival of the year in India — and for Hindus in particular. It is celebrated across faiths by over a billion people in the world's most populous nation and the diaspora. Over five days, people participate in festive gatherings, fireworks displays, feasts, and prayer.

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, offers a soul-stirring Diwali experience. The ghats along the holy Ganges River are illuminated with thousands of diyas, creating a breathtaking sight. One can attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony and release floating Diyas into the river.

But this year the special attention and attraction is at AYODHYA after 500 years, Diwali is being celebrated in the Ram Mandir and this is the first time after the consecration of RAMLALLA

Diwali is a significant festival in Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism. In a multicultural and diverse country like India, everyone has their own way of celebrating this festival.

While Diwali is a major religious festival for Hindus, it is also observed by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. The origin story of Diwali varies depending on the region. All these stories have one underlying theme — the victory of good over evil.

 The Sikhs celebrate Diwali as the Bandhi Chor Diwas with great fervor.  It celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind and 52 Hindu kings from imprisonment.  Muslims, Christians, Parsis, and every other religion celebrate this festival along with the Hindus in India and abroad. It is a festival of lights, and so symbolises good overcoming evil.

Although not a primary festival of Buddhism, Diwali is celebrated by some Buddhists as a commemoration of the day when Emperor Ashoka converted to Buddhism in the 3rd century BC. It is observed by the Vajrayana Buddhist minority among the Newar people of Nepal.

According to the tradition of Jainism, the chief disciple of Mahavira, Ganadhara Gautam Swami also attained omniscience i.e. absolute or complete knowledge (Kevala Jñāna) on this day, thus making Diwali one of the most important Jain festivals.

Christians and Muslims celebrate Diwali in different ways, but some Christians and Muslims do celebrate together.

Festivals in India are about celebration, spreading cheer, joy, and happiness. So yes, Muslims, a lot of them celebrate Diwali. They light diyas, eat sweets, wish friends and relatives (who are Muslims too), and burn crackers.

In contemporary India, we see these traditions live on in the form of syncretic celebrations of Diwali by Muslims.

Muslims celebrate Diwali by lighting diyas and decorating Dargahs. For example, the Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai and the Hazrat Nizammudin Dargah in Delhi are decorated with diyas. Some Muslims and Hindus also light diyas and fireworks together at the Kammruddin Shah's Dargah in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan to honor the friendship between the Sufi saint Kammruddin Shah and the Hindu saint Chanchalnathji.  Muslims are very much a part of the Diwali celebrations of this nation.

Some Christians also celebrate Diwali by engaging with Hindu friends and showing God's love. They may visit Hindu friends, eat with them, and invite them to their church services. 

Many treat this as a part of Catholic culture. Catholics would celebrate Diwali amongst themselves even if there were no Hindus around. Buying crackers, maybe even going to church, wearing new clothes, sharing sweets.

 Diwali is a festival that transcends religious boundaries and is celebrated by people of many faiths and backgrounds. It is a time for joy, unity, and renewal of relationships. People celebrate Diwali by sharing sweets, fireworks, lights, and creating patterns called rangoli on the floor using colored powders or sand. 

Celebrate Diwali and spread joy and peace.

MAKE THE FOOTWEAR FIT FOR THE FESTIVAL

  

  

 

Diwali is around the corner, many of you might have completed shopping and are ready for the day with a new set of dresses, and accessories.

One of the new things will be a pair of new chappals that are meant to be worn with the new dress while you go out to meet friends and relatives or simply while lighting crackers.  

The first thing to do is: Yes, you should be giving your chappals a little clean before you wear them. Studies have found that shoes can contain up to 10 billion bacteria which is no surprise when you consider the amount of people trying them out on the shop floor.

This also will help you to defend yourselves from new chappal bite.

 Chappal bites result from continuous rubbing of it against the skin. New ones that have not been broken in (molding to the contour of the feet) or footwear that does not fit properly create friction and high-pressure points on the feet, causing skin irritation and blisters.

It's not unusual to experience blisters and bites when you first try on a pair of new footwear, especially if they've been in storage for a long time. New chappals are prone to blisters and shoe bites since the material hasn't settled, and they're still relatively new.

If friction is the issue, then you can lessen the conflict between your shoes and your feet by moisturising your skin, or by giving your feet a pamper with some petroleum jelly.

 The most common symptom of a shoe bite is pain in the affected area. This can range from a mild ache to severe discomfort, depending on the size and location of the blister. Other symptoms may include redness, swelling, and warmth to the touch. In some cases, shoe bites can also lead to infections.

The majority of friction blisters heal on their own within 1–2 weeks. However, a few simple steps can help reduce discomfort and minimize the likelihood of the blister becoming infected.

Here are some ways to prevent slipper bites:

Wear socks

Socks can reduce friction and act as a cushion between your feet and the slippers. Choose moisture-wicking socks made from cotton or bamboo to keep your feet dry. 

Use foot powder

Foot powder can help keep your feet dry and reduce friction between your skin and the slippers. 

Apply coconut oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory. You can apply it to your feet before wearing slippers to prevent marks from spreading. If you have sensitive skin, you can also apply it to the inside of your shoes. 

Applying a layer of coconut oil to your feet before wearing them can prevent them from spreading. If you have sensitive skin, apply coconut oil to the inside of your shoes to help prevent these marks. If your slippers do cause you discomfort, consider using more comfortable slippers.

 Break in your shoes

Wear your shoes for short periods before wearing them for longer periods. You can also wear them around the house in the evening if they are just a little uncomfortable. 

Use toe protectors

Toe protectors or toe caps can cushion your toes and prevent friction. 

Insert shoe pads or insoles

Shoe pads or insoles can help prevent abrasion in areas like your heels. 

Apply petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly can create a protective layer on the affected area, soothe pain, and numb the skin.   Apply a little vaseline petroleum jelly on the shoes in the spots which can give a shoe bite like the outer lining above the heels and the toes. This also helps soften the leather.

Apply honey

Honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help wound healing. You can apply natural honey to a shoe bite wound to cure it and moisturize the skin. 

If you do get a shoe bite, you should give your feet some rest and avoid activities that put more strain on the affected area.

 

If by chance you are affected with bites despite the preventive methods carried out by you, here are some remedies for chappal bites, also known as shoe bites:

Coconut oil

Contains antibacterial properties that can help heal shoe bites 

Aloe vera

Apply the gel from the aloe vera plant to the affected area for quick relief 

Honey

Apply a thin layer of honey to the area and cover with a bandage to soothe pain and prevent infection 

Ice

Wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth and place on the bite for instant relief and to reduce swelling 

Elevate your feet

Keep your feet elevated while resting to reduce swelling and promote healing 

Stretch your shoes

Use shoe stretchers to widen areas of your shoes that are causing friction 

Clean and bandage

If there is a blister or open wound, clean it with mild soap and water, apply an antiseptic cream or ointment, and cover with a bandage 

Take painkillers

Take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation 

Rest

Give your feet enough rest and avoid wearing shoes that cause further friction 

So be prepared to celebrate Diwali with all the things in good form including your chappals, sandals, shoes, or slippers.

MAKE SPACE FOR THIS POETRY BOOK IN YOUR BOOKSHELF

 

 Read the review of the book -Neha Bansal's poetry collection 'Six of Cups' in the newspaper on Sunday –THE HINDU: read the full review here

After reading the review, I thought I would learn more about the book through various other sources.  Every article on the book provides a piece of new information that is quite intriguing.

Memories, heart-wrenching and happy, of the dead and the living, of the mundane and the sublime, criss-cross Neha Bansal’s latest bunch of poems, ‘Six of Cups’.

“Six of Cups” is a beautifully curated anthology that serves as an ode to cherished moments, shaping our identities and offering a sense of rootedness in an increasingly alienating world. Ms. Bansal’s poems explore a blend of light-hearted and poignant themes.

The poems also include a glossary for culture-specific terms, a thoughtful addition that aims to enrich the reading experience for those unfamiliar with Hindi or Indian culture. Overall, the collection yields a haptic warmth, and the poems are not just cerebral corollaries of mythical rewritings.

 Nostalgia is also the overall theme of the book. All the 50 poems in the book depict a longing for something beautiful.

It seems that for Poetry lovers this book will be a treat that will instantly refresh them in their hurried lives.

If you wish to buy, here is the link: https://www.amazon.in/Six-Cups-Neha-Bansal/dp/8119858670

MAINTAINING BALANCE IN VERY ACT OF LIFE

   

     

Balanced living means achieving optimal health in all aspects of your life: relationships, work, fitness, health, and emotional happiness. We all get so caught up in work and family responsibilities that we forget to make time for ourselves.

Life is a fragile balancing act and if we're not aware of what's going on around us, if we're not looking forward, if we don't have the right tools to help us remain stable then we may end up falling. Life is split into many areas and it can be a tough balancing act trying to find time for everything.

 Creating a balanced life means making time for the things you have to do and want to do. You can create harmony between your responsibilities and find time daily to do things that bring you pleasure, personal fulfillment, and rejuvenation.

Leading a balanced life means equally distributing your energy among things that sustain you physically, mentally, and emotionally. These often include a mix of “work and play,” such as employment, relationships, social activities, hobbies, and self-care practices.

The 8+8+8 rule is a simple and effective way to achieve more balance in your life. By dividing your day into three equal parts: 8 hours of honest hard work, 8 hours of good sleep, and 8 hours of leisure activities, you can optimize your productivity, health, and well-being.

Balance, peace, and joy are the fruits of a successful life. It starts with recognizing your talents and finding ways to serve others by using them. The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life and acknowledge the great powers around you and in you.