One of my favourite Eco-Tip

Instead of throwing old or unused things out, I pass them on to others who want to take them by using freecycle.org. I have found this site to be very helpful in giving an unwanted item a new home. This is really interesting . You could find lots of unused stuffs (as well as used) for free.

For Coffee lovers - Dunkin Donut Coffee - Free sample

Nature at our door step!

Please click the image to view it larger.

It was a rainy day today and very cloudy. A little cold outside , so i had to close the window which i usually open just for some ventilation. And there i found this beautiful deer outside our house, not just one, they were 3 of them. Immediately i rushed in search of my poor little digital camera all over my house and finally found it very near by myself :))

Tried to click few shots, as clear as i could. Since it was late evening and was getting slightly dark i changed my camera's settings to get the pics clear. I couldnt get out because im sure their ears are very sensitive and that they might run away. So i took those pics from my window , which is why you would see the glare in some pictures.

Hope you all like it.

Sarah the Cheetah - breaks the world record

Sarah an 8n year old female cheetah sets a new world record as the fastest running mamal on earth.

A male cheetah in South Africa covered 100 meters in 6.19 seconds. Sarah didn't beat that just once, but twice: She first clocked in at 6.16 seconds and then 6.13 secondsPerfectly designed for speed; small head, big torso, slender long legs with big paws, narrow hind quarters. AMAZING .

Way to go Sarah!! She is extraordinary, and the Cincinnati Zoo has an amazing cheetah program!!! Congratulations to everyone who has put in a lot of hard work on this project!!
An 8 year old smashed the record for the 100m set by a wild male cheetah in Africa. girls rock!

Please enjoy Sara's video . Thanks.

Resource courtesy: Yahoo
Image courtesy : Internet

Navarathiri Season

Navarathiri or Dussera is one of the most important festival in India and is celebrated all over india by various name ( yet will sound almost similar).

Navarathiri (or navratri) the period of nine days and nights when Goddess Durga fought the Asura is celebrated as Navarathiri in Tamilnadu. Its called Dussera in all over india especially in north india.

Goddess Durga is considered as the personification of courage, strength, and power and praying to the goddess, helps one to be blessed with all these qualities especially during Dussera.

Married ladies pray to the Goddess for the well being of the family and children by performing pujas and reciting Lalitha Sahasranamam. Especially the last 3 days of the nine day festival are very auspicious namely the "Aayutha poojai", Saraswathi Poojai" and the "Vijayadasami Poojai"

In Chennai Navarathri is known for Kolu, the festival of dolls . The dolls which are wrapped in dhotis and papers and stored in the attic are brought down at least two days prior to the commencement of Kolu. The doll makers at their best mind power try themselves to be innovative every year and really produces lot of different varities.
Women who are focused with thematic presentations go around ransacking the shops to collect dolls for their theme. To conceptualize any theme a person should be well versed with the epics, spiritual, social and historical facts. Many kolu buffs dish out novel themes like cricket Ganapathy, stone sculptures at Mammalapuram and Ravana durbar.

More to come....

Vaccation to Ocean City, Marryland.

We took a mini-vacation to Ocean City, Maryland and it was great. We had a fab time. Couple of days during end of summer, in Ocean City was hot, sunny, happy and crowded. Daytime highs in the 80’s, sometimes hitting 90. Nighttime lows 65 to 55 degrees which will little colder.Lots of exuberant children and relaxing parents. The welcome board with the flag at the entrance of the city was really a warm welcome to all the visitors visiting that place which is surrounded by the beautiful blue Atlantic ocean around . This place was busily engaged with ferries , mini boats, fishing activities and a lot more.


It was quite a pleasant scenic beauty to do the boardwalk along the seashore. Which wasn't much crowded . It has lot many shops on the walkway, which was really fun for the collectible freaks like me! At the dawn it was getting a bit colder & beauty of the moon, the ocean, and their reflections...was at its best shot! Wish i had a better camera...:( !!

Okay Arts & Craft Lovers...here you go with quite a few shops at the exhibition which was held in the convention center. Actually there weren't many shops when compared to Indian Exhibitions i have seen so far. But whatever shops that was present there had their best products. Products like quilted napkin covers, pillowcases, throws, books, ready-made dessert mix, gems and jewellery shops were being displayed.

One of the most important thing that you can notice once you are in ocean city would be the number of hotel resorts that are present there. I really doubt if a small town like this would have so many beach resorts. The Coastal highway stretch has more than 100 streets in it and you can see the resorts along the streets throughout the stretch which is interesting huh! And the architecture of all the buildings are really nice and pretty tall.

Now, a fun place for the kids called - "The Jolly Roger".
We our son to Jolly Rogers . On the plus side, there were a number of rides for his age ( 2 yrs) he did not have to wait for any rides. And the staff was reasonably helpful. On the downside, we spent more than $35 for the rides .

Note to parents with small children, watch out for the "point system". If you buy points, the each ride costs between $2 and $3.50 for a small child's ride. If your child plans to ride more than 5 rides, you are probably better off with the multi-park pass than the point system. The rides are carnival quality. While I felt ripped off by the point system, it was our fault for not doing the math and going with a pass.

It was as perfect a beach day with a perfect weather. Ocean City, Maryland, is filled to the brim with visitors. It’s the kind of classic, late-summer day that makes people love Ocean City. It inspired me to celebrate by posting a few photos of classic Ocean City.

See you all soon :))

Labor day Vaccation

Yes, ocean city it is! finally decided at the last minute :)) as usual. Ocean City is a great vacation spot for us-only a few hours of driving .Read some reviews that it is such a beautiful resort town. We chose, this place, to relax and enjoy ourselves in this limited time. Hopefully we should be having a great time there with a good weather. Will post vaccation pictures soon. See ya all soon. Happy Labor day!

Vaccation Vagueness!

The labor day holiday is nearing by and we had a usual talk about the vaccation. Where to go? Near or Far? Drive or Fly?...with so many Questions like these really puts us in a confused state, therefore you cannot decide all alone . Vacations don't happen unless you plan for them! Especially with a busy husband like mine. I usually plan things ahead yet will always end up in the last minute . Had been considering quite a few places in mind depending on our criterias. Still theres no definite answer.

Image courtesy - Internet.

Coping with a fuzzy eating toddler!

After having some experience with my 2 year old , i thought i should write an article on this wonderful topic which would benefit many mother like me who has almost tried every single way to make my kid eat some food . I use to get depressed which may sound a little weird but im sure im not the only one around here.

As babies grow into toddlers and begin eating table food, they often become fussy eaters. It is very normal to have a fight with toddlers everyday during the meal time because they don’t want to eat their food.

How to avoid all these struggles? Although im not a doctor , i guess i can share my 2 cents here , so that some of u could be benefitted out of it.

Here it goes :

• You can think of putting your toddler in a daycare , for atleast couple of hours at the beginning , that way they'll learn socializing and other good habits.


• Some kids will tend to eat atleast a little , on seeing other kids eating during their meal time.


• At home, you can make meal-time a family affair.Although it sounds impossible in this busy world, you can try it out atleast 2 to 3 days a week.


• Do not offer your toddler any drinks or snacks if he is too fuzzy about eating. This will definitely make them hungry during the meal-time.


• Cook one healthy meal (which has a maindish-some veggiesor meat-soup- yogurt/Milk)for everyone in the familyand offer it in a plate to your toddler . Your toddler will fight with you at first, but eventually will realize and try to eat. Do not offer any alternatives.


• But make sure you prepare a healthy cum delicious snack that he will probably like it. Dont try to introduce too many new food at a time.Just go one-by-one.


• A toddler's tastebud is very sensitive, at the same time, they tend to eat only when they are hungry. So do not force or bribe them .


• Stick to the routine and serve the meal at same time every day as far as possible. Because some kids are very punctual (like mine). They eat atleast one meal exactly on time, if you make it a little late they become hyper-active and become very cranky in hunger.


• Learn to admit the fact : that toddlers growth during this phase is very slow.therefore they will have only limited apetite. Hence they can eat only a little, and the very little nutrition itself is enough. -- this is a scientific fact and you may refer it with any of your pediatrician. THE GOOD NEWS IS THEY WONT STAY LIKE THIS FOREVER.THEY WILL EVENTUALLY CHANGE.


• Be creative with food. If your child does not like eggs, try giving them egg custard or beat the eggs real fluffy and add finely grated veggies to it and bake them in tiny cookie tray that way they might try to eat them. Basically toddlers likes colorful food with different shapes like toys...


• Call these finger foods playful names that a two-year-old can appreciate, such as:
  apple moons (thinly sliced)
  avocado boats (a quarter of an avocado)
  banana wheels
  broccoli trees (steamed broccoli florets)
  carrot swords (cooked and thinly sliced)
  cheese building blocks
  egg canoes (hard- boiled egg wedges)
  little O's (o-shaped cereal)
  Place the food on an easy-to-reach table. As your toddler makes his rounds through the house, he can stop, sit down, nibble a bit, and, when he's done, continue on his way. These foods have a table-life of an hour or two.


• Dip it with fun : Young children think that immersing foods in a tasty dip is pure fun (and delightfully messy). Some possibilities to dip into:
  cottage cheese or tofu dip
  cream cheese
  fruit juice-sweetened preserves
  guacamole
  peanut butter, thinly spread
  pureed fruits or vegetables
  yogurt, plain or sweetened with juice concentrate
  Those dips are equally nutritious and will serve the purpose.
• AVOID JUNK FOOD.
• Last but not the least , PATIENCE is very very important and you gotto have tons & tons of them!!! :) do not get discouraged or feel bad or get angry when the child rejects your hard work. Its just a child. So you need to be more patient and self motivated.

Hope this will help moms like me.Good luck with your toddler!

Bye Bye Summer !!! :(( Welcome Fall 2009!!!

It is a bit sad that there wasn't much of real summer days this year, and the temperature hardly touched 96 which was the maximum . When compared to the previous years . Anyways, welcome to the Tricks & Treats Halloween/Fall 2009! I kind of like fall season of all the seasons here. As there are lots of things to do around my area. But i hate winters. Especially with a kid, you cant really do much of activities , and tend to get winter blues.

NewJersey is a great place to visit during the fall .Especially there is nothing like coming to the Southern parts of New Jersey . There are many fall festivals including craft shows, pumpkin festivals and more. While in town take notice of all the beautiful colorful leaves on the trees. Golds, oranges, bright reds, and deep greens make it known that it is fall in Southern New Jersey.

Things you do to enjoy Fall around NJ and the Tri-state areas :

• Check out your local newspaper or your county website for events such as fruit picking , like pumpkin picking , apple picking, and so on. Because its always fun for the kids.


• You can enjoy the country fruit festivals like the Chatsworth Cranberry Festival in Chatsworth, NJ, set in the colorful trees of the Pine Barrens. Enjoy the local cranberry harvest with homemade cranberry baked goods, cranberry salsa, cranberry dressing and so much more.


• I always love the South Jersey Pumpkin Show in early October . You'll enjoy a mini-haunted village, scarecrow displays, haunted hayrides, a fall art gallery, a fall garden, a music and food fest, free pumpkins for the kids, kiddy amusement rides, and over 200 craftsman displaying their wares. Various events take place at different times throughout the day. The Pumpkin show is located at: Cumberland County Fairground, 3001 Carmel Rd Millville NJ 08332.


• Delaware Water Gap : A River and its Valley For 40 miles the Middle Delaware River passes between low forested mountains with barely a house in sight. Then the river cuts through the mountain ridge to form the famed "Water Gap." Exiting the park, the river will run 200 miles more to Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean at Wilmington, Delaware.There's still more to do; this valley has been a home for thousands of years, and dozens of historic structures dot the park's scenic byways. Source(s):
  http://www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htm
• Please check local website (of yours) for more information :
• September 13-15, 2009 Philadelphia Nat’l Candy Gift & Gourmet Show Atlantic City, New JerseyAmerica’s largest show dedicated to the retail confectioner, is sponsored by the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia.
• September 20, 2009 Cognac and Chocolate TastingCranford, New JerseyChocolate & Spirits tasting event featuring artisanal chocolates to compliment Pour Moi
• October 27-28, 2009 KosherFestMeadowlands, New JerseyKosherfest is the #1 kosher food and beverage trade event serving the retail, foodservice, manufacturing and distribution industries. New Products Competition Oct 15 and 2nd Annual Kosherfest Culinary Competition Oct 27.
• September 9, 2009 WLIW21 Autumn Gourmet ClassicNew York, New YorkThe ultimate "foodie" event in an intimate setting! Lidia Bastianich, Jacques Pépin and John Barricelli team up for food, wine & culinary theater. Live demos, food tastings from around the New York metro area and wines from around the world.
• September 16, 2009 Taste of the VillageNew York, New YorkMake the 7th Anniversary of this event by inviting friends who love extraordinary food from award-winning chefs such as Dan Barbar, named the nation’s top chef in 2009 by the James Beard Foundation, Mario Batali of International Acclaim and Chef Akhtar Nawab of Elettaria.
• October 30-Nov 1, 2009 Chocolate ShowNew York, New YorkThe 12th Annual Chocolate Show in New York will, as years past, feature some of the most world renowned pastry chefs and chocolate makers from all over the world. As such, this show is one of the most exciting gastronomic events, enticing visitors from the entire United States to get a taste of their favorite sweet.

Thanks and have fun during this fall.

Resources :

Chatsworth Cranberry Festival

South Jersey Pumpkin Show

http://www.nj.com/

http://www.state.nj.us/

http://www.foodreference.com/

Image Courtesy :

Internet

Summer Precautions - car interioir becomes an oven!

I came to know about this information while i was browsing and thought of sharing it with all. You may be surprised to find out how high temperatures can soar within the interior of a car during a hot, sunny day.

I have posted few pictures that i got from the internet to illustrate how outside temperature remains constant at 90 degrees but we increase the length of time prolongation within a vehicle here This clearly tells us , it is important to note that the outside temperature does not have to be hot in order for a car to become an oven . Even temperatures considered mild can be fatal during an extended period of time.

Kids and hot cars safety tips :

• Simply, just don't leave kids in the car
• Always lock your car and secure the keys so that your kids can't get to them
• Warn your kids about playing in the car by themselves without adult supervision
• Install a trunk release mechanism, so that they can't get trapped in the trunk
• Get your kids out of the car first, and then worry about getting the groceries, etc., out of the car when you get home
• Make sure that child car providers and day care workers have a plan to make sure that kids aren't left in the day care providers car or van
• Extreme heat has many risks such as that of Heat Cramps, Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke.
• Please be prepared especially those with kids and pets.

Ganesh Chathurthi - 2009

Our Ganesh Chathurthi this year happened to be as simple as it could be as compared to the last year's celebration. We had been travelling a lot around the town . So coudlnt do much this time. But i am immensely satisfied with the fact that i did my own Ganesh Idol using the natural clay. Thanks to the companies that produces such a wonderful product which are so easy to play with and it really makes our life easy when compared to the real clay that we traditionally use. to make the idol. Anyways , hope u all enjoy the pictures .

How to make a simple clay Ganesh idol at home?

Since Ganesh Chathuri is nearing many of us may be planning to make an idol by ourselves but might have no idea how to start. One of my friend sent me this link ,which shows how to make a clay idol of Lord Ganesh by ourselves at home. Im sure this link will definitely give an idea for beginners like me. Have fun making eco-friendly idols at home.

Modeling Clay - Ganesh

Please Click the picture to view it bigger.

This is the one made out of natural clay:



This one is made out of mess free clay :


Every year we buy the clay ganesh idol from near by store or temple, for celeberating Vinayagar Chathuri or Ganesh Chathurthi . But since im not satisfied with the idol they make here in US, i thought of making one on my own. So i planned to buy crayola modelling clay from near by store like Walmart/Target/Kmart .


There are several different types of clay available in the market. Earth tone clay is best for making ganesh idol. Since the store i went did not have one, i bought the white color and mixed crayola paint to get the natural eart tone color .


If expense is not an issue then you can go for "no mess" or " mess-free" clay that is available , you get in different colors or you can buy just plain white and add some redish orange -crayola paint to it and knead the dough and make it into an idol. This mess free clay is an excellent option for begginers, as it would leave no mess in your hand. Very easy to clean.


Another type of clay is the natural earth clay which is also in white. So as i said before , you can just add any water or acrylic color to it ( the reddish orange or browinish orange tone - to give it a natural earth tone look. ) . Its little bit sticky but not that bad as a real clay that we buy in our country... You can always sculpt the idol and incase if it gets dry u can touch up with water and then keep going.

Also i would like to give you a small suggesstion of how to celebrate an ECO FRIENDLY Ganesh Chathurthi without harming our environment:

1. Traditionally, clay was used to make Ganesh idols. Over the years however, plaster of Paris (POP), which is lighter and cheaper, has become the favoured material to mould these idols. POP contains chemicals such as gypsum, sulphur, phosphorus, and magnesium. The dyes used to colour these idols contain mercury, cadmium, arsenic, lead, and carbon. Plastic and thermocol accessories are used to decorate these idols. Such materials are not biodegradable, hence are toxic.

Solution : Use natural clay and nontoxic paints.

2.With the immersion of these idols in the sea or inland water bodies such as lakes and streams, the chemicals in these idols dissolve in the water veru slowly, gradually releasing its harmful components. The water experiences a rise in acidity as well as traces of heavy metal. The toxic waste kills plant and animal life in the water.

Solution : Immerse the idol made of natural clay and non toxic paint in a bucket of water and sprinkle around the house and plants.

As the basic concept of immersing Ganesh idol is nothing but -what ever the world has offered to us is offered back to the world!

So i did 2 ganesha idol using mess free and the natural clay, but after i finished making the idol my 2 year old son came running towards me @ 200 MPH and made them shapeless !!! :))

Have a happy and Eco-Friendly ganesh chathurthi all of you!

Happy Krishna Jayanthi 2009

I had been meaning to post an article since a month , thats when i came back from my vacation. But someway or the other i got too busy with day to day life and kept going on with it. Also i wasnt sure what to write as my mind was totally blank. I didn't wanna post anything crappy , finally got hold of this beautiful day of Sri Krishna Jayanthi! The birth of Lord Sri KRISHNA PARAMATHMA!

I have always considered him as my dear one,cant really give a precise relationship as it would be lesser that wat i might express. I have had times which wasnt so pleasant , but i was able to go through it smoothly with the help of HIM. There has been many times when I have unknowingly hurt his feelings. But he has always brushed it aside acknowledging the fact that it was from a superficially insensitive but deeply sensitive person like me. Probably he knows that I never ever meant to hurt him .

I mostly communicate through singing songs and kirthis on Lord Krishna where i will always end up with tears of joy/sorrow/happiness all mixed up together. Thereby i will put down my burden at his lotus feet and he has never failed to take up my burden as his!On such beautiful day i present few pictures above. Happy Krishna Jayanthi you all!

India Vaccation pictures - Part 1

Friends, pls find some pictures that i took during my vaccation.This time most of my trip was spiritual based. Hope you will all enjoy the pictures.

1.Mangaadu Amman Temple : I always get some peace of mind in understanding about our sacred relegion.I wish i knew more when i was in chennai , coz i might have been able to visit temples around. Yet I've been blessed to get an opputunity to have darshan of Mangadu Amman everytime i visit chennai during vaccation.
This is one of my favourite temple. And there is a speciality to this temple associated with me.This temple is very close , about 25 mins drive from our place.
Whenever i tell someone (friends / relatives who are unmarried) to go and visit this temple , and pray sincerely, they will definitely get married very soon. This has happened not just once.... lot many times. Om Shakthi!!! Parashakthi!!!




Mangadu temple way to moola prathanam :

2.Om Shakthi Temple : Jainagar Arumbakkam, just 2 mins from our house in chennai. Very powerful temple. You dont have to ask anything to god, she herself will fulfill all your necessities that you deserve.

3.Thirumazhisai Temple: Also known as Jagannatha Perumal temple. Very close to our house in chennai, situated in Poonamallee road, its about 10 mins drive from our place.

There is also a shrine buit for anjaneyar inside the temple.This anjaneyar is supposed to be very powerful and fulfills all the wishes of the devotees praying there .He is supposed to heal incurable diseases , brings marriage to unmarried persons and also grant a person with wealth &prosperity.

In specific people who are facing difficulties in getting visa are said to have gotten it, when they pray to this Anjaneyar, and it is so true in my parents case, whose visa got rejected the first time and they got it after praying in this temple.Thus he is being called as VISA ANJANEYAR.No doubt your prayers for visa are fulfilled in this temple.

There is a community in orkut for this temple http://www.orkut.co.in/Main#Community.aspx?cmm=50490252 There is also a similiar visa temple in Hyderabad called Balaji temple in Chilkur,Andhra pradesh.

4.Othandeeswar temple : A shiva temple kai thanda pran [devotee who gave his hand]. It is told that this temple was build at this site as Lord Shiva showed himself here to the devotee(A King) who cut off his hand when he accidentally used his sword to cut the climbers on the Lingam to pave way

Im Out Of Town

Im out of town for couple of months.... So, there won't be much in the way of new posting activity here until...

I will be in india during my vaccation and will probably post pictures or a few articles when i find time.

The Unexpected !!!

Sometimes in life we have to suddenly face situations, which we can only think of in our wildest nightmares. When we imagine ourselves to be in a difficult situation, we derive more thrills out of it, because we are actually not experiencing it in real life and at the same time we are having a marvelous adventure. The unexpected always gets us more excitement than the expected.Or sometimes it might even turn out to be more terrific.
LIFE IS a real mystery…. We don’t know what, when and where the life turns a new leaf and we are bowed to follow what it shows
So what do we do at that time?
Well the answer is ....not very easy! but it is not necessary that life will remain the same. Be prepared for whatever life has to offer you. All we can do is to simply face the unexpected thing with courage.
You might be wondering why am I talking philosophical stuffs. May be becoz im one among the scrapies who have experienced too much of unexpected stuffs in life!!!

Image Courtesy : Internet

Petty Shop Sweets!

The nicest thing is everything that brings back our pleasant childhood day memories. I spent my later childhood days in a place called Erode which is in western part of tamilnadu, close to the banks of the river kaveri. So the water there tastes better than many other parts of tamilnad, especially in chennai which is my hometown basically. Its a beautiful place , where theres a touch of nativity as well as modern amneties. Since its an economically well to do place basically through agriculture and textile, the people are more sophisticated and live in luxury.Well, thats where i was put up in 7th standard at a school called Kalaimagal, which is the best school at that time. I stayed there till my school finals.

There was a petty shop near by my school , where in , i found lot of delicious sweet/savouries which if i still think of , will make my mouth watering.... lol:-)Although my mom know that im gonna get some sweets from the shop , she will make sure that i dont cross my limits as those are less hygenic stuffs. There have been days where i ended up in sickness. But those are all part and parcel of our lives .

So let me explain the sweets that are available there :

1.Then Mittai

2.Kamar Katt

3.I dont remember the name but it will be round in shape brown in color...

4.Elantha Vadai

5.Elanatha Jam.

All these are delicious stuffs, will linger pleasantly in your mouth for hours together.

Cant forget those days which will have you wallowed in nostalgia.

I recently heard that these sweet stuffs are hygenically packed and sold in supermarkets in chennai.

Recently i got the recipe for Thenmittai , which i will be posting it in my cookbook blog soon.

Image Courtesy : The Hindu

Tender Coconut Benefits

The water of tender coconut, technically the liquid endosperm, is the most nutritious wholesome beverage that the nature has provided for the people of the tropics to fight the sultry heat. It has caloric value of 17.4 per 100gmIt’s a natural isotonic beverage with the same level of electrolytic balance as we have in our blood. It’s the fluid of life.Numerous medicinal properties of tender coconut water reported are:-

• Good for feeding infants suffering from intestinal disturbances.


• Oral rehydration medium for various diseases such as diarrhoea.


• Contains organic compounds possessing growth promoting properties.


• Keeps the body cool and prevents dehydration.


• Application on the body prevents prickly heat and summer boils and subsides the rashes caused by small pox, chicken pox, measles, etc.


• Kills intestinal worms.


• Checks urinary infections and effective in the treatment of kidney and urethral stones.


• Excellent tonic for the old and sick.


• Cures malnourishment by meeting the energy requirements.


• It acts as a Diuretic balance your pH and reduce risk of cancer.


• It can be injected intravenously in emergency case.


• Found as blood plasma substitute because it is sterile, does not produce heat, does not destroy red blood cells and is readily accepted by the body.


• Aids the quick absorption of the drugs and makes their peak concentration in the blood easier by its electrolytic effect.


• Urinary antiseptic and eliminates poisons in case of mineral poisoning.


• Coconut helps detoxify and flush toxins out of the body and cleanses your digestive tract.


• Coconut heals hot flashes and restores emotional stability in menopausal women.


• Boosts immune system.


• It has more potassium and lesser sodium than any sports or energy drink .


• Coconut water contains high levels of lauric acid which is what is used by the body to make monolaurin -– a disease fighting fatty acid derivative. Lauric acid has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which protect the body against various infections and boosts the immune system.

Coconut water also helps relieve constipation, improves intestinal function and promotes digestive health -– it is often recommended to people suffering from acidity and ulcers.
Constipation, sluggish digestion and heartburn
are common problems during pregnancy and can be helped to some extent by drinking
coconut water. Thats the reason doctors recommend pregnant women to drink tender coconut water during pregnancy.
In the heat of summer when you are looking for something other than water to quench your thirst, you can have this nutritious and refreshing beverage instead of sugar and calorie laden aerated drinks and fruit juices. It is naturally sterile and so perfect for drinking while travelling without the fear of contamination.

Image Courtesy: Internet

Content Courtesy : Sanjana Dietician , Manipal Group of Hospitals , Mangalore, India.

First Birthday for my Blog!

Time to celebrate my blog’s first birthday. Surprising to know that its been one year today since I started writing my very first post. It was just some random thoughts that floated around in my head. Blogging proved to be a huge help during a difficult time of my life. It also helped me discover my writing skills. Now the blog, my fellow bloggers , blog readers & visitors comprise an important part of my life. And I sincerely hope it will remain so in coming years. Besides, your comments, your feedback is the driving force that makes me blog. Hopefully the love and bond we share via this blog, will stay fresh and friendly forever.
Thanks everyone once again. And again. Happy Birthday abigeeth.blogspot.com !!!

Image courtesy : Internet (yet to post my own picture...)

Herbs of India - Part 4

Neem : (Botanical name - Azadirachta indica)

Neem is a medium sized to large tree characterized by its short, straight bole, furrowed, dark brown to gray bark, and dense rounded crown of pinnate leaves. The Neem seeds, Barks, Leafs, are the sources of various Neem extracts. Neem has been in use for centuries in the Indian Agriculture as Best Natural Bio Pesticide and organic fertilizer with pest repellent property. The Indian Medicinal field has also been using Neem for various types of diseases to be cured. Neem is also used in manufacturing Natural Herbal Cosmetics. Neem comprises of 40 different active compounds called Tetranortriperpernoids, or more specifically liminoids. These liminoids create hormonal disruptions and prevents the insect from Feeding, Breeding or Metamorphosing.

Herbal Neem Usage: A wide multitude of diseases or conditions can be successfully treated with various elements of Neem.

Herbal Neem Cures Cancer: Throughout Southeast Asia Neem has been used successfully by herbalists for hundreds of years to reduce tumors. Researchers are now supporting these uses. Neem has been tested on many types of cancers, such as skin cancers, using Neem-based creams and lymphocytic cancer, using the herb internally. In India, Europe and Japan scientists have found that polysaccharides and liminoids in Neem bark, leaves and seed oil reduced tumors and cancers and were effective against lymphocytic leukemia.

Herbal Neem Cures Dental Care: People in both India and Africa have used Neem twigs as tooth brushes for centuries. Neem twigs contain antiseptic ingredients necessary for dental hygiene. Neem powder is also used to brush teeth and massage gums. In Germany many researchers have shown that Neem extracts prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Herbal Neem Cures Diabetes: Because Neem is a tonic and a revitalizer, it works effectively in the treatment of diabetes, as well. More than a disease that requires change of diet, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people ages twenty-five and seventy-four; it also damages nerves, kidneys, hear and blood vessels; it may even result in the loss of limbs. Incurable, it can be treated in a variety of ways. One recommendation is to take one tablespoon (5ml) of Neem leaf juice daily on an empty stomach each morning for three months. An alternative is to chew or take in powder form ten (10) Neem leaves daily in the morning. Some studies have shown that oral application of Neem leaf extracts reduced a patient’s insulin requirements by between 30 and 50 percent for nonkeytonic, insulin fast and insulin-sensitive diabetes.

Herbal Neem Cures Heart Disease: Major causes of a heart attack include blood clots, high cholesterol, arrhythmic heart action and high blood pressure. Neem has been helpful in these conditions too. Its leaf extracts have reduced clotting, lowered blood pressure and bad cholesterol, slowed rapid or abnormally high heartbeat and inhibited irregular heart rhythms. Some compounds may produce effects similar to mild sedatives, which reduce anxiety and other emotional or physical states that may prompt a heart attack. The antihistamine effects of the nimbidin in its leaves cause blood vessels to dilate. This may be why the leaves help reduce blood pressure.

Herbal Neem Helps For Birth Control: Neem has been shown to be a powerful, relatively inexpensive birth control agent for both men and women. In the first century B.C., Charaka, the Indian physician, gave a detailed method for using Neem for contraception. Cotton soaked in Neem oil was kept in the vagina for fifteen minutes before intercourse. This killed the sperm.

Neem’s contraceptive uses for women are even more varied. Even the leaves are said to be effective. Many women in Madagascar chew a handful of Neem leaves every day, which according to their statements prevents pregnancies. In the case of unwanted pregnancies, Neem is said to be capable of inducing a miscarriage. Neem oil based vaginal creams and suppositories are extremely popular in India. Nonirritating and easy to use, they are almost 100 percent effective. When tested against human sperm, Neem extract (sodium nimbidinate) at 1,000mg was able to kill all sperm in five minutes and required only 30 minutes at a lower, 250 mg level. It is suggested that these creams and suppositories also prevent vaginal and sexually transmitted diseases. Oddly, Neem oil has also been taken internally by ascetics who wish to diminish their sexual desire.

Herbal Neem For Prevention Of Malaria: Malaria is quite common in India and throughout the tropics. Neem has been shown to be effective in a number of ways against this deadly disease. Both water and alcohol based Neem leaf extracts have been confirmed as effective. It has been shown to block the development of the gamete in an infected person. Neem leaf extract greatly increases the state of oxidationin red blood cells, which prevents normal development of the malaria virus. Irodin A, an active ingredient in the leaves, is toxic to resistant strains of malaris; 100 percent of the malaria gamete are dead within seventy-two hours with a 1 to 20,000 ratio of active ingredients. Other experiments have used alcoholic extracts of Neem leaf, which performed almost as well. Gedunin and quercetin, compounds found in the leaves, are also effective against malaria. Several studies show that Neem extracts are effective even against the more virulent strains of the malaria parasite. Some scientists believe that stimulation of the immune system is a major factor in Neem’s effectiveness against malaria. Even though Neem may be effective against the parasites that carry malaria, it has not been shown to prevent the malaria infection once it’s in the body.

Herbal Neem Cures Rheumatism: Neem leaves have anti-inflammatory activity, similar to that in drugs such as phenyl butazone and cortisone. They can relieve pain and reduce acute pain edema. For rheumatism, tropical applications of a warmed Neem cream that contains Neem oil and perhaps a mild Neem tea will help lessen pain.

Herbal Neem Cures Stress : Relatively new scientific findings indicate that Neem may even be useful for reducing anxiety and stress. An experiment was done on test animals and has been proved the fact that it reduces stress.

Herbs of India - Part 3

Indian gooseberry: is a wonder herbs and one of the precious gifts of nature to man. It contributes towards health and longevity.

Indian gooseberry has been used as valuable ingredient of various medicines in India and abroad. Indian gooseberry also called Amla in Hindi, increases red blood cell count. It is one of the highest natural source of Vitamin C (3,000 mg per fruit) .Amla is known as amritphala in Sanskrit, which literally means "the fruit of heaven" or "nectar fruit." It is so called because it is rich in many desirable properties. It was described in a 7th century literature that several scholars and sage the sage is reputed to have restored their vitality with this fruit.

Beneficial points :
Respiratory disorders:
Indian gooseberry is beneficial in the treatment of respiratory disorders. It is especially valuable in tuberculosis of the lungs asthma and bronchitis.
Diabetes:
This herb, due to its high vitamin C content, is effective in controlling diabetes. A tablespoon of its juice mixed with a cup of bitter gourd juice, taken daily for two months. Will stimulates the pancreas and enable is to secrete insulin, thus reducing the blood sugar in the diabetes. Diet restrictions should be strictly observed while taking this medicine. It will also prevent eye complication in diabetes.
Heart Disorder: Indian gooseberry is considered an effective remedy for heart disease. It tones up the functions of all the organs of the body and builds up health by destroying the heterogeneous or harmful and disease causes elements. It also renews energy.
Eye disorder: The juice of Indian Gooseberry with honey is useful in preserving eyesight. It is beneficial in the treatment of conjunctivitis and glaucoma. It reduces intracular tension in a remarkable manner. a cup of juice mixed with honey can be taken twice daily for this condition.
Rheumatism: To treat rheumatism a teaspoon of the powder of the dry fruit mixed with 2 teaspoons of jaggery can be taken twice daily for a month.
Scurvy:As an extremely rich source of vitamin C, Indian gooseberry is one of the best remedy for scurvy. Powder of the dry herb, mixed with an equal quantity of sugar, can be taken in doses of 1 teaspoon, thrice daily with milk.
Ageing: Indian gooseberry has revitalizing effects, as it contains an element which is very valuable in preventing ageing and in maintaining strength in old age .It improves body resistance and protect the body against infection. It strengthens the heart, hair and different gland in the body.
Hair Tonic:
Indian gooseberry is an accepted hair tonic in traditional recipes for enriching hair growth and pigmentation. The fruit, cut into pieces is dried preferably in the shade. These pieces are boiled in coconut oil till the solid matter becomes charres. This darkish oil is excellent in preventing graying .The water is which dried amla pieces are soaked overnight is also nourishing to hair and can be used for the last rinse while washing the hair. Indian gooseberry is used in various ways. The best way to take it with the least loss vitamin C, is to eat it raw with a little salt. It is often used in the form of pickles and it is dried and powdered. The berry may also be used as a vegetable. It is boiled in a small amount of water till soft and taken with a little salt.
Other Uses:
The root bark is astringent and is useful in stomach ulcers.The bark is useful in gonorrhea, jaundice and diarrhea.
The leaves are useful in curing conjunctivtis , inflammation, indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery. The fruits are sour, astringent, bitter, sweet, cooling, digestive, laxative, anti pyretic, diuretic and tonic. Amala fruit aids digestion, cures flatulence, helps correct body functions and metabolism

Herbs of India - Part 2

Thulsi or Holy Basil

Holy Basil is commonly grown in Hindu homes and it is a sacred plant in the Hindu religion. Native to India , Tulsi has a long tradition of use in ayurvedic medicine.Holy Basil has been used for thousands of years as a prime herb in ayurvedic treatment, and is mentioned in the Charak Samhita (the central teaching of ayurvedic medicine) which was written at least two thousand years ago.

Beneficial points:

1.Used in ayurvedic medicine for common colds, headachesstomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, various forms of poisoning, and malaria.

2.considered an adaptogen, which means that it assists the body adapt to stress (environmental, physical, or chemical), restore balance in the body, and normalize body functions

3. It is currently being studied for its beneficial properties and has been found to be effective for cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, stress, wound healing, the immune system.

4. Research has proved that liver support and protection, hypoglycemic conditions, ulcers, digestion, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, radiation poisoning, cataracts, the memory, respiratory system, urinary problems, eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions, been treated successfully.

5.It is an antioxidant.

Contraindications:

Not recommended for use if pregnant, nursing, or are considering becoming pregnant (may have an anti-fertility effect). Do not administer to infants or toddlers. May lower blood sugar, consult a doctor if hypoglycemic (in separate studies, it has also been shown to be beneficial for those with hypoglycemia). Holy Basil has mild blood thinning properties.

To be continued ................................

Courtesy : Pacific Botanicals.

Herbs of India - Part 1

Lately i had been posting articles which is someway or other connected to natural & healthy living. This time i've planned to post some articles on Indian herbs. Hope you all like it.

Indian herbs are renowned all over the world for their medicinal properties. India is the second highest producer of medicinal herbs in the world after China. Himalayas, Aravalis, and Nilgiri mountains are the greatest reserves of medicinal herbs in India.

Let me take one at a time so that we can stay focussed.

Turmeric:

is one of nature's most powerful healers. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Tumeric has been used for over 2500 years in India, where it was most likely first used as a dye.
The medicinal properties of this spice have been slowly revealing themselves over the centuries. Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties, recent research has revealed that turmeric is a natural wonder, proving beneficial in the treatment of many different health conditions from cancer to Alzheimer's disease.

The list doesnt end here; 2o reasons to add turmeric to your diet :

1. It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.
2. When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.
3. Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.
4. May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.
5. Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.
6. Is a natural liver detoxifier.
7. May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.
8. May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.
9. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.
10. Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.
11. Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.
12. May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.
13. Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.
14. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
15. Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.
16. Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.
17. Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.
18. Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.
19. Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.
20. May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

No wonder we Indians use turmeric almost everday in our cooking.

Contraindications: Turmeric should not be used by people with gallstones or bile obstruction. Though turmeric is often used by pregnant women, it is important to consult with a doctor before doing so as turmeric can be a uterine stimulant.

To be continued.....................


Courtesy : http://www.indiabook.com/
Image Courtesy : Internet.

Guilt free snacks :

This article is dedicated for those who are in diet and tired of egg whites, steamed vegetables and other diet food.

Most of us follow an unusual eating pattern to reduce the weight but the key to a successful wightloss is portion size (to control the calorie intake) and the ability to satisfy your hunger. SO you can continue eating what you eat regularly but restrict the portion size.

Some usefull tips on how to add spice to a diet-friendly palate especially the snacks time food.

Soup: tomato-based soup with a touch of meat or fennel is healthy and can feel very special. Stay away from cream-based stocks and go with broths with vegetables and grains, like chicken vegetable or vegetable barley.

Chocolate: Here’s the good news: Minimally processed dark chocolate has heart-healthy flavonoids that have antioxidant power. And in small quantities [chocolate] can have a positive effect on brain functioning. The less-good news: You have to have the willpower to eat it small enough quantities.

Brussels sprouts: As long as they aren’t overcooked just lightly browned at the edges with some oil or vinegrette are much more nutritious than celery. Helps to maintain your youth.

Acai: You can find it in the freezer section of health food stores and markets. It is rich in antioxidants, fatty acids and phytosterols. She suggests whipping it together with other fruits for a morning smoothie to kick-start your day. Acai is rainforest fruit from the Amazon that has great rejuvenating qualities.

Cheese: Apart from its fat content it’s also high in protein yet it helps with weight control, when combined with a right amount of carb in a manageable way gives a balanced and satisfying nosh.

Pomegranate: is high in free-radical fighting antioxidants and in flavor. The power of this potential superfood is in its high level of phytochemicals (plant chemicals that have protective or preventive properties). IT can be consumes as juice , Use the juice as a holiday cocktail, sprinkle the seeds over salads or cereal .

Nuts: Again high in fat, but this is why they can be so satisfying. Pay special attention to portion control. One third of a cup, or one and a half ounces, just four times per week. Any nut will do cashews, walnuts, almonds, pecans, or try macadamia nuts for something a little more exotic.

Wish you all luck guys.

Body Butter

Impportance of moisturizer :

A moisturizer is an essential product for a healthy skin which many people fail to realise or give least importance. Moisturisers prevent and treat dry skin, but that's not all they do. They can improve skin tone and texture, and mask imperfections. Skin tells itself how old it is or, how young it is. Extreme winters and summers are biggest challenges for any skin type. To face all these challenges we need to protect our skin with a right choice of moisturizer that suits our skin type.
There different types of skin types but basically they can be categorised into 3 namely

1.Normal

2.Dry

3.Dry

and theres one more called combinational where that type of skin has oily skin type on the T zone and rest of the area dry.

Therefore choose the moisturiser that's best for you depending on many factors, including your skin type, your age and whether you have specific conditions, such as acne.

Wait a minute ..... why would i talk about moisturizer under the topic "BODY BUTTER" ? You may think i got a bit deviated but , for those who are new to the product i just wanted to give them a small intro about moiturizer and then go the topic "Body Butter"

Now what really is a body butter:

Body Butter is like moiturizing lotion minus the water (most lotions are 70 to 90% water) and the preservatives. So what you are purchasing are the straight oils and butters in the concentrated form. Unlike lotion, Body Butter will not wash right off.

Lately I started to use body butter and found it a lot better than many other lotions which would eventually make my skin dry and scaly again. Body Butter is thick and creamy and also the skin seems to absorb it quickly.

You can choose any brand of body butter that works for you , i found The body shop's butter to work fine with me. I just love their range of products and fragrance and last but not their least the quality.

So guys please understand the importance of moisturizing ur skin and have fun using them.

Have a healthy skin!!!

Vaccation 2008

My vaccation last year was great except the fact that we all fell sick (flu). Other than that it was a nice trip. we had been to LA & Lasvegas and most of the picture i clicked was at lasvegas. So pls find the picture below and let me know ur valuable comments. Took all the pics with my ordinary compact digita camera - canon.

Disneyland Castle dec 2008:

Disney Parade :

Disney Parade :

Bellagio Chihuli glass at the lobby :

City view from our room @ bellagio:

Pongalo Pongal

This is one of the major festivals of tamilnad which is in south india. Since i hail from that place i wish to add few words about it. Pongal is such a sweet festival really as well as literally .It is very special to the farmers as it is mainly oriented to the harvesting. But every Hindu thanks lord "surya baghvan" which is the sun , for giving life to the plants and there by food to all the living being. We make a speciality dish called Pongal which is basically a slow cooked rice & jaggery and offered to god as a token of thanks.

My friend sent this is a picture of her office in chennai decorated for the festival of Pongal. The pots, sugarcane branches with leaves and flowers are traditional parts of the Pongal celebration. In rural areas of Tamil Nadu and northern and eastern Sri Lanka, the pots would be on an open fire with milk and traditional pongal food being boiled in them.

Happy Pongal to all of you.

Happy NewYear 2009

Hi friends happy newyear wishes to you all. I just landed back from my vaccation. Will post my vaccation pics soon.