How to Lose Weight in 4 Weeks- Diet Chart for Weight Loss

 This Diet Chart is written by one of friends Husband,Making us  girls acquainted with the point of view of the opposite sex. We all were totally impressed and agreed to every word he said. So let’s take the same thought a little further.

To stay fit and maintain your shape a regular workout helps a lot. But when it comes to losing weight and getting back in shape, a regular workout or exercise routine won’t suffice. You will have to take it a step further and take care of your diet in order to lose weight. Even the gym instructors would tell you so. Exercise and diet are the two sides of a coin. You can’t achieve weight loss with just one of them. A regular exercise routine and a healthy diet is your route to salvation.

First things first, If everything with you is fine your weight gain is due to lethargy, wrong dietary habits and erratic routine. So When u go on a diet make sure that whatever plan u follow it must be timed right as well. You must wake up latest by 8:00 ( that’s for the late risers, even I used to wake up by 10 or 11). This is the most important thing in your routine because the body has its own clock and you shouldn’t mess with it.

This diet is split in 4 weeks period with the diet changing every week.

Before starting the diet weigh yourself and write it down somewhere. This way you know where you started and you feel good to see the scales going down.

Some things you need to follow this diet:

1. No salt after 7:30
2. No aerated drinks. Yes that includes even the diet version.
3. Restrict mango and banana
4. Restrict potato and rice.
5. No artificial juices as well.
6. Half an hour of aerobic exercise daily. If u want to join a gym good enough. But if due to any reason maybe time or money constraint u can’t join a gym. All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes to do some aerobics, a skipping rope to do at least 500 skips (5 sets of 100 skips and increasing it as you go). 1.5 -2 kgs dumbbells for toning your upper body. Just these basic things and you are set.
7. 20 mins of breathing exercise. ( I’m talking about Baba Ramdevs pranayam)

Without further ado I present you with the Indian diet.

Week 1

8:00 am (as soon as you wake up) – 2 glasses of methi seeds water ( soak 1tsp of methi seeds in 2 glasses of water. Strain out the methi seeds and drink the water. Helps a lot in water retention and bloating) 5 soaked almonds with the skin. 1 kali mirch u don’t have to chew it just swallow it down.

9:00 am – 1 toast (brown bread) with amul lite butter / hung curd dressing/ salad and chutney

11:30 am – one fruit of your wish

1:30 pm – A small plate of salad before starting the meal. The fibers in the salad fills u up which in turn prevents false hunger that makes u overeat.1 bran chappati (mix wheat flour and wheat bran in equal proportions.) with 1 bowl ( normal sized katori ) of dal. Generally at my place dal is cooked at night so I used to store the dal made at night for the other days lunch, u can do the same.

5:00 pm – 1cup of milk or tea with 2 biscuits(just marie, no other biscuits)/ 1 small bowl bhuna channa/ 1bowl popcorn ( not the buttery act 2 ones but air popped popcorns without the butter)

7:30 pm –A small plate of salad before starting the meal. 1 bran chappati with 1 k vegetable ( any vegetable not rajmah, channa or kadhi)

8:30 pm – one fruit of your wish

When this week ends, weigh yourself again. I’m sure u must have lost weight. I lost 1.8kgs in the first week itself. U lose the max in this week because you lose all the water weight and the bloating is gone. The further weeks you are surely going to lose weight but it won’t be this much.

Now to the next week.

Week 2

8:00 am (as soon as you wake up) – 2 glasses of tulsi leave water ( soak 5 tulsi leaves in 2 glasses of water. Strain out the leaves and drink the water.) 5 soaked almonds with the skin. 1 kali mirch.

9:00 am – 1 toast (brown bread) with amul lite butter / hung curd dressing/ salad and chutney

11:30 am – one fruit of your wish

1:30 pm – A small plate of salad before starting the meal. 1 sandwich (2 brown breads with paneer filling, if you are a vegetarian and egg whites, if you are a non vegetarian.)

5:00 pm – 1cup of milk or tea with 2 biscuits

7:30 pm –A small plate of salad before starting the meal. 1 bran chappati with 1 k vegetable (this week you can take rajmah, channa or kadhi )

8:30 pm – one fruit of your wish

This week I lost just .9kgs

Week 3

8:00 am – 2 glasses of methi seeds water. 5 soaked almonds with the skin. 1 kali mirch.

9:00 am - 1 glass of milk and a fruit

11:30 am – one fruit of your wish

1:30 pm – 1 bran chappati and any vegetable

5:00 pm – 1cup of milk or tea with 2 biscuits/ 1 small bowl bhuna channa/ 1bowl popcorn (not the buttery act 2 ones but air popped popcorns without the butter)

7:30 pm – 3 pcs steamed or roasted chicken or fish + salad (non vegetarians)

Any one of the following for vegetarians:

1. 1 bowl dal .+ 1 bowl curd + salad
2. 1 bowl veg + 1 bowl curd + salad

8:30 pm – one fruit of your wish

Week 4

8:00 am - 2 glasses of methi seeds water. 5 soaked almonds with the skin. 1 kali mirch.

9:00 am - 1 glass of cold coffee and a bb toast

11:30 am – one fruit of your wish

1:30 pm – This week you have a lot of options which you can take alternatively.

1. 1 bowl sprouts + fruits
2. 2 bowl vegetables + salads
3. 1 bowl dalia + 1 bb toast
4. 1 bowl vegetables + 1 bb toast
5. 1 bowl kadhi + 1 quarter plate rice

5:00 pm - 1cup of milk or tea with 2 biscuits/ 1 small bowl bhuna channa/ 1bowl popcorn (not the buttery act 2 ones but air popped popcorns without the butter)

7:30 pm – 1 bran chappati and 1 bowl vegetable.

8:30 pm – one fruit of your wish

By the end of the month you will definitely lose 3-6 kgs I lost 4.3 kgs in a month with PCOD. I’m sure u can do better. when on a diet your social life won’t stop but you can still manage your weight without locking yourself at home. Some pointers for it. :

1. hen you go out with friends try to have your lunch or dinner at subway. The healthiest option out there. Take a veggie delite sub in brown bread and eating out won’t harm your diet and weight at all. Tell them not to put mayo in it though.
2. If you don’t have a say in the place of eating then make your choices sensibly. If you go to eat Chinese have rice rather than noodles. Order stir fried veggies instead of Manchurian. And control your proportions. Don’t take fried starters. Avoid those thick soups they are no good.
3. When going out just pick 2 fruits before sitting in the car and eat it on your way to the venue. When you are already a little filled before going out. Your somewhat filled stomach helps your mind take the right decision.
4. If eating Indian, order tandoori chappati rather than butter naan or parantha. Take less gravy since it is the most fattening.

Even if you don’t want to lose weight keep these points in your mind and you will be able to maintain your weight easily.

Perfect diet chart for weight loss

A 1,500-calorie eating plan designed to help you stay trim and satisfied.

Breakfast
2 egg stuffed omelette (mushroom and onion), 1 slice of multigrain toast with a slice of low-fat cheese, 1 cup of black coffee (add milk and stevia, if desired). According to the US National Institute of Health, people who have a highprotein breakfast are more likely to feel full throughout the day than those who consume protein any another time.

Snack
1 cup fresh yoghurt (whipped) 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, halved 1 apple, chopped 1 tsp flaxseed 6 almonds and 5 walnuts *Studies show that the longer you chew on almonds, the more you may absorb their healthy, satietyboosting fats. Total: 220 calories

Lunch
Chicken salad with vinaigrette: 150 g roast chicken pieces (you can also use smoked chicken) 6-8 pieces sun-dried tomatoes 1 apple, chopped 30 g olives vinaigrette to taste 3-4 Tbsp of olive oil 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, rocket leaves), 1 slice of multigrain toast.  Lean protein such as chicken is vital when you cut calories because it fills you up without a lot of fat and helps you build muscle too. Total: 450 calories

Snack
1 cup moong bean sprouts 15 peanuts Salt, pepper and lemon to taste A small mocha latte from your nearest coffee shop (174 Kcals) Total: 290 calories

Dinner
Steamed fish fillets with grilled garden vegetables, 1 cup of homemade tomato soup 200 g steamed basa fish, 1 cup grilled vegetables. According to the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids, the Omega-3 in tuna helps reduce the risk of becoming obese and improve the body's ability to respond to insulin. Total: 250 calories

Daily total:
1,500 calories
Note: For optimal weight management, combine this nutrient-dense meal plan with exercise at least 4-5 times a week. 

Home Remedies for dandruff - Part 2

Dandruff is a very common hair and scalp problem. But you can definitely cure dandruff from home remedies naturally. Before curing the dandruff, first of all you need to know what dandruff is. Dandruff is simply shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. Problem of dandruff is different from dry scalp. Also dandruff has not much to do with ethnicity or gender. Although severity of dandruff is affected by weather and it usually gets worse in winter

There are many causes of flaky, itchy dandruff problem. These might be as simple as extreme exposure to heat and cold, or as complicated as ringworm, dermatitis. Psoriasis or cradle cap (common in newborns) also causes dandruff. Problems like hormonal fluctuations, stress, neurological disorders also are the reasons of dandruff. Sometimes extra sensitivity to the fungal infection or fungus contributes to the problem of dandruff.

Although dandruff is a persistent condition, but still it can (almost) always be controlled. Some dandruff shampoos may succeed in the short term treatment of controlling dandruff. Before you apply anything on your scalp, look for the symptoms in your head like white flakes. These white flakes are dead skin scaled from the scalp and the first symptom of dandruff. Closely watch the color and thickness of these flakes. Small, dry and white flakes are caused by reaction of your skin to cold weather in combination with indoor temperature which usually differs a lot. Flakes which are thick and oily are most likely caused by psoriasis. Always think twice before applying various hair products on your hair as skin sometimes reacts to some of these resulting in dandruff. Recognize the symptoms and treat them well by following any of the remedies given below-

Keep your head and scalp clean by shampooing regularly. Allow the shampoo stand in your scalp for few minutes before you rinse it. It will help in cleaning head properly and hence avoiding dandruff.

Stress plays a very important role in the origin of dandruff. So better avoid it.
Never apply any random chemical on your hair, unless you are very sure. Also avoid chemical based hair care products.

A healthy and balanced diet always helps in avoiding dandruff problem.

It is generally noticed that dandruff reduces in summer. Therefore, it is also a thought that the sunlight is somehow helpful in treating dandruff.

Always prefer lukewarm water for head bath. Luke warm water helps to clean dandruff from the head very effectively.

Mahua Tree oil is one of the best traditional Indian herbs which help in curing dandruff.

You can make oil by mixing two portions of Asteraceae leaves juice and only one portion of sesame oil. For this heat both of them together until mix well and filter the oil after that. Use this oil to massage your scalp which will help in curing dandruff.

Take pulp extracted from Balanites Aegyptiaca fruit and mix it thoroughly with water until you see foam. Apply this in your scalp and keep it for some time, then wash it which will cure dandruff.

Fenugreek (methi) paste can also be applied on the scalp for an hour before washing hair to reduce dandruff problem.

Lemon juice can also be applied on the scalp for about an hour before hair wash to deal with the problem of dandruff.

Curd is very effective home remedy for dandruff. You can apply sour curd by itself or can mix it with few drops of lemon juice before applying.

Reetha (Soap Nut), which is usually used for washing hair, also gives relief in dandruff problem treatment.

Paste of amla also known as Indian gooseberries when applied on scalp sometime before bath is helpful in curing dandruff.

Boil hibiscus leaves with small quantity of water. Use this along with shikakai to wash your hair instead of soap or shampoo to face dandruff. These both will act as a natural conditioner for your hair.

Mix besan or gram flour with curd and apply it on your scalp before bath. It will help in curing dandruff.

Wash hair with boiled beetroot leaves, which will in getting rid from dandruff problem.

Some home remedies are as simple as regular oil massage. This is also effective way to get relief from dandruff.

Paste of neem or sweet neem mixed with paste of Indian basil (tulsi) when applied on scalp also helps in curing problem of dandruff.

Grinded arhar dal or pigeon pea can also be applied in scalp in for the treatment of dandruff.

Paste of raw papaya helps in preventing the process of exfoliation of dandruff flakes. It can be applied on the scalp about 10-15 minutes before taking bath. Enzyme papain which is present in papaya is also very helpful in the problem of hair fall

Neem water can also apply for curing dandruff. For this boil fresh neem leaves for sometime, about half an hour, and filter the remaining water. Let it cool down and then apply this liquid on your hair for 10 minutes and then wash it away.

Mix six spoons of water with two spoons of vinegar and apply it on the scalp with the help of cotton before going to bed. When you wash your next morning remember to rinse your hair again with vinegar after shampooing. This will help in curing dandruff.

Massage your scalp with a mix of a spoon lemon juice and two spoon vinegar. Wash your hair a shampoo containing egg to get relief from dandruff.

You can soak fenugreek seeds (methi dana) in yogurt for overnight and can apply this yogurt on your scalp for an hour before taking a bath.

Washing hair with fenugreek seeds or methi dana is very beneficial in dandruff problem as well as in problems like hair fall and baldness. For doing this, you need to soak seeds in water for overnight until they get soft. Then grind them to a paste and apply in on hair for half an hour before hair wash with shampoo.

Take two and beat them properly after mixing two tbsp of water in it. Apply this mixture on wet hair and massage your scalp. Let the mixture stand in your hair for about 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse the hair well with lukewarm water after that. This home remedy is very good and effective for both dandruff and hair fall problem.

Camphor or capoor is very effective in dandruff problem. You can apply it my mixing 4-5 tablets of camphor in hair oil (preferably coconut oil). This will keep dandruff problem and lice away from your hair.

Mix well 1 tbsp curd, 2 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp lemon juice and warm it. Apply this mixture for about 20 to 25 minutes before washing hair with shampoo once a week help to keep dandruff away.

A mix of tea tree oil with alovera gel is also helpful in curing problem of dandruff.

With these home remedies it will not be difficult for you to cure dandruff problem from now. By following these home remedies you can surely cure dandruff problem naturally at home.

Home Remedies for dandruff - Part 1

It's a rampant problem amongst the population as it affects many kids, teenagers and adults. Dandruff can be described as a condition wherein, there occurs flaking of the scalp that falls on one's shoulders and face too.

This occurs due to infection by bacteria and fungus, and it is an infectious condition. It leads to frequent itching coupled with excessive formation of scales on the skin. It is advised that one should not share towels, combs or hair brushes as dandruff is infectious.

Its best to treat dandruff using natural remedies than artificial chemical based products. Here are some ways to do so:
It is important to comb your hair daily as this promotes blood circulation inside the scalp. Also, regularly massage your scalp with herbal oil.

Use hot olive or sesame oil on the scalp before bedtime. Next morning, rub little lime juice on your scalp one hour prior to bathing. Wash and rinse your hair well.

Prepare a mixture of equal amounts of vinegar and water. Apply this on your scalp and leave it on overnight. Wash your hair the next morning with a mild baby shampoo.

Soak a handful of fenugreek or methi seeds in some water overnight. Next day, grind the seeds to a paste. Apply this on your scalp and leave to rest for a couple of hours. Rinse your hair with shikakai or ritha.

Massaging the scalp with fresh apple juice is said to fade dandruff away.

A solution of beetroot juice, vinegar and some ginger juice, when applied on the scalp helps to get rid of dandruff.
Washing your hair with powder of green grams is another remedy.

Benefits of Waking Up Early

Early to bed and early to rise makes you healthy, wealthy as well as wise. And that is not merely an age-old saying. It works in daily life too. Read on to know how.

1. Time to Exercise

Waking up early gives you the time to exercise. You can easily go for a jog, do a few laps in the pool, practice yoga or hit the gym with plenty of time at hand.

2. Time to Meditate

There is nothing like beginning the day with a dose of meditation. It will help calm your mind and sharpen your reflexes to keep you going through your busy schedule of work.

3. Experience the Charm of Early Morning

Only an early morning person knows the charm and serenity that those hours offer. The silence, the birds chirping, the absence of cars honking, and the sunrise are all advantages only early rising can offer.

4. Increase Productivity and Efficiency

A study conducted at the Texas University in 2008 revealed that early risers are more prone to be productive and efficient at work. In fact, students who wake up early are known to get higher grades than those who wake up late.

5. Eating Breakfast

Breakfast is known to be the most important meal of the day. Often, you may land up skipping it if you are running late for work. An early start to the day ensures that this significant meal is never given the slip.

6. Less Stress

Giving you ample time to get ready on time, waking up early ensures that you suffer less stress. Beat the traffic and drive to work at ease.

7. Set Routine

Once you get into the habit of rising early, you are able to set a routine and that obviously leads to better productivity not only at work, but also on the home front and as an individual.

8. Brighter Mood

Early risers are known to be happier and more optimistic than night owls. The latter are known to suffer depression, insomnia and pessimism. The bright start with exercise and optimism is bound to keep you feeling energised and optimistic all day.

9. Better Health

Proper routine and exercise are known factors in ensuring better health in the long run. Waking up early ensures you set aside time to work out. Late risers lack the advantage of time for this.

10. Better Finances

Improved health, enhanced productivity and ameliorated energy can only result in one thing – a higher rate of success. And when this happens in your career, can financial triumph be far behind? So, rise early to kickstart a really great way of doing well in the professional sphere as well.
The benefits of waking up early are myriad. It doesn’t take much to change your lifestyle to avail these benefits. After all, personal and professional well-being, and ultimate success are what everyone seeks. So, why not adopt a healthier way of living and reap those benefits?

Are You an Introvert? A Test for Introverted Personality Traits

This test for introverted personality traits not only reveals if you’re an introvert, it describes the top signs of introversion – some of which will surprise you.

This personality test is from The Introvert Advantage by Marti Olsen Laney (the link to Amazon is below).

For instance, did you know that introverts don’t think of casual acquaintances as friends? And, introverts take a long time to sort out information…and they dread returning phone calls (that’s me!).

“Introverts enjoy time alone, consider only deep relationships as friends, and feel drained after outside activities, even if they were fun” says Marti Olsen Laney, author of The Introvert & Extrovert in Love: Making It Work When Opposites Attract.

Laney also says these famous female actresses are introverts: Gwyneth Paltrow, Helen Hunt, Meg Ryan, Meryl Streep, Diane Keaton, Grace Kelly, Julia Robert, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ingrid Bergman, Candice Bergen, and Glenn Close. Wow! We’re all in good company, then  .

A Test for Introverted Personality Traits

Answer true or false to the following questions about introversion and extroversion:

1. I like to have long, uninterrupted periods to work on projects, rather than small chunks.

2. I sometimes rehearse things before speaking, occasionally writing notes to myself.

3. I like to listen more than talk.

4. People sometimes think I’m quiet, mysterious, aloof or calm.

5. I usually need to think before I respond or speak.

6. I like to share special occasions with just one or two people, rather than have a big celebration.

7. I tend to notice details many people don’t see.

8. If two people have just had an argument, I feel the tension in the air.

9. If I say I’ll do something, I almost always do it.

10. I feel anxious if I have a deadline or pressure.

11. I can zone out if too much is going on.

12. I like to watch an activity for awhile before joining in.

13. I form lasting relationships.

14. I don’t like to interrupt others; I don’t like to be interrupted.

15. When I take in lots of information, it takes me awhile to sort it out.

16. I don’t like overstimulating environments.

17. I sometimes have strong reactions to smells, tastes, foods, weather, and noise.

18. I am creative and/or imaginative.

19. I feel drained after social situations, even when I enjoy myself.

20. I prefer to be introduced rather than having to introduce others.

21. I often feel uncomfortable in new surroundings.

22. I can become grouchy if I’m around people or activities for too long.

23. I often dread returning phone calls.

24. I like people to come to my home, but I don’t like them to stay a long time.

25. I find my mind sometimes goes blank when I meet people or when I am asked to speak unexpectedly.

26. I talk slowly or have gaps in my words, especially if I’m tired or if I’m trying to think and speak at once.

27. I don’t think of acquaintances as close friends.

28. I feel as if I can’t show other people my ideas until they’re fully formulated.

29. Other people may surprise me by thinking I’m smarter than I am.

Are you an introvert? Finding the answers to this personality test is easy

Simply add up your “true” responses. The more “trues” you have, the more introverted personality traits or introversion signs you possess…

Scoring:

20-29 “true” responses means you’re a true introvert (like me!). “Only deep relationships measure up as friendships and you use them to relax. You need to mentally rest throughout the day, even after enjoyable activities. Because you will draw a blank under pressure, prepare for meetings, talks, and even parties beforehand. Accept your nature and learn to politely fend off energy-draining people.”

10-19 “true” responses means you’re both introverted and extroverted. “You sometimes feel torn between the desire to dance in the streets and walk alone on the beach. Notice this, so you can keep your energy consistent. You judge yourself through your thoughts and feelings, and through others, leaving you with a broad view that is sometimes difficult to straddle.”

1-9 “true” responses means you’re an extrovert. “You relish variety, have lots of ‘close, personal’ friends and will chat with complete strangers. Your stimulation is all external, so you talk, think, and act quickly. As you reach midlife, however, you may need to take a break from the high life to reflect, even though it goes against your nature.”

Is Your Life Boring? 115 Things to Do When You’re Bored

This boredom survival guide doesn’t just include 115 things to do when you’re bored, it has tips for making money from your boring life!

These boredom busters aren’t just for kids who are bored during summer vacation…many adults need things to do when they’re bored at work, bored at home, and bored with their lives.

“There comes a moment in the day when you have written your pages in the morning, attended to your correspondence in the afternoon, and have nothing further to do. Then comes that hour when you are bored; that’s the time for [fill in the blank with a boredom buster!]…” ~ H.G. Wells.

Do you like board games? I don’t. But, someone recently alerted me to Cards Against Humanity - it’s the most popular game on Amazon right now. If you’re a bored kid, you have to ask your parents if you’re allowed to play this game, though.

If you’re an adult who is bored beyond belief with your life, read Beyond Boredom and Anxiety: Experiencing Flow in Work and Play. It’ll give you a fresh perspective on your boring old life, and give you at least one healthy, interesting thing to do when you’re bored: read!

One of my friends builds guitars — that’s his favorite thing to do when he’s bored. You could try learning a musical instrument – it’s good for your brain and it’ll give you something interesting to do. I recently started playing the flute again, and will be joining an orchestra soon. If you love to listen to music, you’ll LOVE learning how to play an instrument.

115 (or so) Things to Do When You’re Bored

1. Make homemade lavender ice cream (get creative with your flavors)

1.  Count the number of duplicate numbers in this list (this is your first!)

2. Make chocolate or hemp soap as a gift for someone

2. Make up your own reality show

3. Make up with someone you’re fighting with

4. Clean out your junk drawer or medicine cabinet

5. Set smart financial goals – or figure out how to pay off your debt

6. Pluck your eyebrows

6. Write what it’s like to live with chronic illness

7. Make a list of things you love about your partner, child, or parent

7. Learn what your favourite dog breed reveals about your personality

8. Listen to soothing music or soft rock

9. Read a thriller or juicy romance novel (thanks @Lynn_Murphy for this boredom buster!)

10.  Write your own thriller or juicy romance novel

11.  Update your email list

12.  Email your friends and ask for their favorite things to do when they’re bored

13.  Trade Wii games and gear with your friends — or try the newest Wii games

14.  Write an apology to someone you’ve been avoiding

15.  Bake oatmeal chocolate chunk coconut cookies (one of my favorite things to do when I’m bored)

16.  Memorize 5 new words from the dictionary

17.  Play web sudoku – thanks @BJMuntain for this boredom buster

18.  Organize your recipes

19.  Read your old diaries

20.  Find a volunteer job

21.  Try aromatherapy

22.  Make your Christmas wish list

23. Start thinking about Christmas shopping, even if you’re bored in the summer

23.  Freewrite everything that pops into your head

24.  Clean the bathroom

25.  Do an office workout (if you’re bored at work)

26.  Make a list of things to do before you die

27.  Make someone happy

28.  Explore ways to be more spiritual

29.  Balance your checkbook (which might make you even more bored)

30.  Give yourself a manicure or pedicure

31.  Give your partner a manicure or pedicure

32.  Find a new hobby

33.  Find a new way to make friends

34.  Find a new pet

35.  Find a new way to improve your love relationship

36.  Start looking for Halloween costumes

37.  Go outside

38.  Pretend you’re a tourist in your own city

39.  Wash your dog

40.  Brush your cat

41.  Brush your mom’s hair

42.  Go to the library (one of my favorite things to do when I’m bored)

42. Be a Big Sister or Big Brother

43.  Clean out your closet

44.  Donate your preloved clothes to charity

44. Start planning your next birthday party!

45.  Watch old movies

46.  Learn how vision boards help you achieve your goals

47.  Join a MeetUp group

48.  Start a MeetUp group (a great thing to do when you’re bored!)

49.  Clean out your kitchen cupboards

50.  Write a letter

51.  Update your resume

52.  Google old friends

53.  Play Lexulous on Facebook – thanks @venusvision for this boredom buster

54.  Clip your nose hairs

55.  Learn to crochet or knit

56.  Rearrange your living room

57.  Go to the dog park

58.  Face your demons

59.  Plan your next party

60.  Pray or meditate

61.  Practice self-hypnosis

62.  Plan your next vacation (I love exploring cheap vacation packages when I’m bored!)

63.  Make a “to do” list for tomorrow

64.  Read poetry

65.  Research your family tree

66.  Make a household budget

67.  Take a bubble bath

68.  Download your photos – you’ll see you haven’t had a boring life

69.  Knit – thanks @SimplyForties for this boredom buster

70.  Organize your finances

71.  Sweep your deck or balcony

72.  Write a short story

73.  Pretend you’re asleep

74.  Explore different ways to achieve fitness goals

75.  Draw your bedroom

76.  Sort through old photos (one of my favorite things to do when I’m bored)

77.  Make a scrapbook

78.  Play online trivia games

79.  Go for a walk

80.  Pick up trash in your neighborhood

81.  Get a job (unless you’re looking for things to do because you’re bored at work!)

82.  Write a song

83.  Start a blog (but not a boring one!)

84.  Write a blog post about how boring your life is

85.  Change your blog theme

86.  Dust the shelves

87.  Listen to talk radio

88.  Talk a walk down memory lane

89.  Putter

90.  Grab a yoga mat, focus on deep breathing, and re-energize with deep stretching – thanks @catlover1964 for this boredom buster

91.  Do crossword puzzles

92.  Wax your bikini line

93.  Give yourself a massage

94.  Create a unique board game

95.  Learn how to deal with toxic relatives

96.  Clean out old computer files

97.  Paint a self portrait

98.  Learn to juggle (one of my husband’s favorite things to do when he’s bored)

99.  Read old magazines

100. Tweet! – thanks @runaholickassy for this boredom buster

101. Lie on the grass

102. Lie in the snow

103. Lie in the rain

104. Don’t lie to yourself

104. Toilet train your cat

105. Listen to different types of music

106. Try to make it through an hour without touching the floor (thanks Eliza for sharing this creative thing to do when you’re bored!)

107. Make silver coins with foil, and create a treasure hunt (thanks Renee for this boredom buster!)

108. Turn the music up LOUD and DANCE your boredom away (thanks Macie for this fun thing to do when you’re bored!)

109. Tell me how many “things to do when you’re bored” are actually on this list (I honestly have no idea, because of the duplicates)

110. Tell me one way to improve this blog – what would you do differently if it was yours?

Your pet can help you heal

Your pet can help you cope up with a loss or a painful transition in life, like a divorce. Harsha Patil talks to many suffers and a veterinary doctor to throw light on the outstanding quality of pets to help you cope up with stress

"I felt like Brownie had miraculously entered my life to help me walk through the awful time." - Vrinda Bhosale, front desk executive
When Vrinda was 19, she lost her husband and was left all alone to taste the bitter part of life. She says, "I was pregnant when my husband met with an accident. Since his demise, I started getting suicidal. It was then that my mother-in-law introduced me to Brownie, a cute little puppy. I used to spend hours, playing and cuddling with him. He eventually helped me walk away from my misery and become more positive in life."

With a sad note she adds, "Brownie left us when he was 12. He had been my protector, healer, counsellor and definitely my best buddy!"

"I had never thought of getting a pet but Ana, my kitty, made me fall in love with her."
- Sweta Shenoy, image executive

Sweta was in a relationship for over 15 years but her married life lasted for only 2 years. She says dolefully, "I had full support of both my family and in-laws as I tried recuperating from the painful divorce from my unfaithful husband. But it was Ana, the stray kitten near my parents' place that became my true comforter."

Pets can find out the missing links and be the best pacifier. Sweta reminisces, "Her incessant gestures from getting cuddled up on my feet to nuzzling my chin, waking me up and greeting me with joy made me feel loved and needed in the phase where I needed love and cheering up the most."

"My daughter and my pet complete my forlorn life."
- Ruchika Mitra, primary school teacher

Ruchika was abandoned by her in-laws for giving birth to a girl child. She got divorced when her daughter was hardly a year old. She recounts, "I didn't want to be a burden on my parents after my divorce. So, I decided to stay in a rented house close to theirs and bought a 2 year old lab, named Dhiru.

She believes that pets bear a sense of responsibility and have the ability to pep you up during your toughest times. "While I was away for work, Dhiru used to be with my daughter. He taught me what selfless love and care without expectation is all about. I believe I could have never regained normal life if I did not have his support," laments Ruchika.

"Keeping a pet is about recreating the family sentiments, companionship and a reason to come home for someone who loves you unconditionally."
- Dr Silloo Bhagwager, Mumbai based practicing vet


Having pets is all about the 'feel good factor'. Dr Silloo confirms, "Humans have a basic need to give, share and care for others. As pets are non-judging and unconditionally devoted, they pamper our ego to an extent. In our woeful days, they unleash positive energy without holding any envious, malicious, or negative feelings."

About single women keeping pets, she says, "Pets can fill up the lives of people who may have gone through a loss or a tragedy and are great companions for people living alone. Just take care that there is a friend or a family member who can take care of your pet in your absence. While it brings in a sense of security, it also opens up avenues for new friendships with other pet lovers!" 

Don’t be sad!

Do you often feel sad, lonely and depressed, especially during the winters? You are not alone. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), commonly known as winter blues is a mood disorder which affects 10-15% of the global population. Registered Dietician Preethi Rahul helps you shrug away the SAD feeling! 

Eat wisely

Lack of sunshine can cause vitamin D deficiency particularly in the winter months. Up the "D" by adding more Vitamin D rich foods (though most of the D comes from sunshine) like salmons, sardines, eggs, fortified milk and shiitake mushrooms. Sweet meats, cakes, pastries -all the fat and sugar laden desserts are known to be comfort foods that can provide instantaneous temporary relief from depression which is common in winter. Thus watch your sugar intake. Substitute sweets with whole fruits that are naturally sweet. Dehydration is also common in winter as people tend to feel less thirsty. Increase your fluid intake. 

Be "warm"

Wearing bright coloured clothes, painting your room in warm shades, having bright coloured foods can make you feel great and prevent any depressive symptoms that can arise with the seasonal change. Going out and socialising with people, hanging out with friends, engrossing in some winter adventure sports like skiing or ice skating are effective activities that can prevent the blues from setting in.

Get moving

Your exercise schedule invariably goes for a toss with the cold wave setting in. But it's very important to exercise in winter. According to researchers at Cornell University, exercise has the same therapeutic effect as 2.5 hours of light treatment indoors. Force yourself into 15 to 20 minutes of dancing to the radio or brisk walking. Exercising increases the serotonin levels that can fight depression and can also prevent those flabs from piling during the winter.

Light away the blues

Light therapy is one of the most commonly used treatments to fight away winter blues. A hot glowing body of flame can definitely make you feel warm, comfortable and release the feel good endorphins that will elevate your mood. Sitting in front of a fluorescent light box that delivers an intensity of 10,000 lux can produce substantial relief for Seasonal Affective Disorder. Light therapy can be as effective as an antidepressant medication for mild to moderate depression.

Cut down your screen time

Research has shown that those who are addicted to the internet or television or video games, tend to have a higher degree of depression and anxiety. Cut down your screen time and indulge in some activity that you love doing. Creative activities such as dancing, singing, painting, and the like are good activities. Watching some sad gloomy soap or death and destruction on screen can heighten the depressing feeling. Watch something that will lighten up your mood!

5 skin-care mistakes you may be committing

Did you know that massaging your face in a circular motion could add visible years to your skin? It moves excess fluid around and stretches the skin, massaging in lines, making you look older. Sheetal Anand gets experts to help you identify and eliminate such mistakes from your carefully inculcated cleansing, toning, and moisturising routine to help you achieve maximum results 




1. Cleansing is supposed to remove dirt and grime, nothing more
Normally in a regular salon, heavy cream cleansers are used, which eventually spoil the pH of the skin. One needs to be careful about the kind of cleanser being used. It should not be too strong as all it needs to do is cleanse your face of daily grime. Dr Narmada Matang, dermatologist, Kaya Skin Clinic, says, "One of the most common mistakes is washing the face too often as this robs the skin of its essential oils. Using strong fruit acids directly on the skin, like papain from papaya and citric acid from lemon or orange, are also a no-no, as it can lead to dryness, peeling, inflammation and pigmentation."

2. Get your skin massaged, not kneaded 
Dr Jaishree Sharad, International Cosmetic Dermatologist, warns, "Improper face massage using inappropriate products, may lead to folliculitis or hair follicle infection. An outbreak of whiteheads, blackheads and pus pimples can also occur, as massage stimulates oil-secreting sebaceous glands." Inappropriate massaging leads to breaking of capillaries and veins, causing soreness or redness. Plus, the skin may feel uneasy, stretched and taut. Also, while steaming, one should prefer ozone to regular steam as it is not only anti-bacterial but also improves circulation.

3. It's not a floor scrub, it's a face scrub
Kaneeka Vijay Kumar, Director, Jeevaa Skin Care and K Kosmetix, says, "While scrubbing, if the strokes are rough or the scrub is not evenly granulated, the epidermis could develop tears leading to rash, brazing and pigmentation. Light aqueous based scrubs or exfoliators, which are not only gentle on the surface of the skin, but also maintain the pH of the skin, are recommended. "What one needs to remember is that scrubs should not be used more than once a week or applied with too much pressure. Remember, excess exfoliation causes sensitivity, rash and acne. This is especially true during a skin treatment.

4. There are no quick fixes for acne
Dr Jamuna Pai, Cosmetologist, Blush Clinics Pvt. Ltd. Mumbai identifies common mistakes that could lead to serious trouble. "Firstly, never resort to extraction and pinching of active acne. It can get aggravated and infected. Even in a beauty clinic, it has to be under strict guidance of a medical practitioner. Secondly, never try waxing to eliminate facial hair. You may have a sudden breakout of acne, which means big trouble. Third, do not use topical creams, with active ingredients, for quick-fix cures. These, when overused, excessively dry your skin and cause redness. Four, do not try remedies blindly just because they are on the net or in a magazine. Remember, everyone's skincare needs are different. What works for one may not work for the other."

5. Follow simple dos to keep your skin hydrated 
Make moisturising your dictum. Ensure your skin is not under-hydrated by regular application of moisturiser and by consuming adequate fluids. This is especially important for those engaged in professions where workplace temperatures are constantly fluctuating. Also make sure you avoid very hot showers as this can lead to dehydration.

"Applying sunscreen should be your mandatory routine. Make sure you use it in sufficient quantity and reapply every 3 hours. Research indicates that regardless of the SPF, sunscreens can protect for no more than 3 hours. Also, keep in mind, that sunscreens protect your skin from harmful UV rays but do nothing to prevent tanning," adds Dr Jamuna.

Your sari’s better half

Megha Bajaj, 23, modelBody type: Hour glass 
"The corset gives the look such a contemporary feel and makes my figure look like a perfect 10"

The style for you 
• A choli lends itself excellently to a proportionate figure.
• A style that works best and complements your curves is the corset-style choli. It fits like a second skin, cinching your small waist and showing off your figure to its advantage. 
• A deep V-neck choli also goes really well with this body type. It will give you a nice elongated look, and also make your face look narrower. 
• Also try sweetheart necklines. They're a great way to enhance your curves. 
• You can pair the choli with a lehenga or a sari, depending on what you're more comfortable in. With a sari, opt for a shorter corset and wear the pallu pleated narrowly.
• A longer corset looks better paired with a lehenga. If the corset is heavily embellished, skip the dupatta and go for some interesting neck or arm accessories. 

Sunaina Cariappa, 22, event management student
Body type: Pear-shaped
"This is such a great way to drape a sari. It's doing a good job of showing off my figure in all the right places."

The style for you 
• The thing to remember while picking a blouse for this body type is to go for a neckline that elongates the neck and broadens the shoulders. This helps create the illusion of a more proportionate figure.
• A square-necked choli creates this illusion and also adds an angle to your face, if your face is round. 
• Pair the choli with a darker sari. This shifts focus from your problem areas. 
• To make the look more stylish, drape the pallu around your neck like a scarf, instead of wrapping it the usual way. This will also draw focus to your shoulders. 
• Earrings are a great way to accessorise this look. Adding a waist band in a darker metal is a good way to accessorise and makes your body look slimmer.

Ayushi Kaul, 25, marketing project manager
Body type: Apple-shaped
"I'm usually so conscious in Indian wear, especially if it's a lehenga, but I feel beautiful in this outfit."

The style for you 
• If you belong to this body type, pick a choli that doesn't make you look heavier on the top. 
• A halter neck blouse is a good style for you, as it gives support and draws attention away from your chest, to your shoulders and arms. 
• You can wear a halter neck blouse with a sari or a lehenga. Pick a blouse that isn't too short; this will look and fit better. 
• Avoid wearing the sari or lehenga very low on your waist, or you will only emphasise the disproportion between your upper body and your lower body. 
• An A-line silhouette works best. It doesn't hug your lower body and gives you a more proportionate look.