Unfortunately, the trend is expected to continue.

Summer is finally in full swing, so get ready to experience scorching weather. If you are feeling the heat already, you are not alone!

Hot temperatures can mess up with the body in sneaky ways, and it’s not only about sunburn or excessive sweating. There are a few ways in which this hot and humid climate might take a toll on your health and body.

Effects of Heat on Body during summers

Heat causes heat exhaustion

Stepping outside in the months of May or June can feel like a physical blow. The longer you spend in the heat, the more serious the effects on your body can be.

Increased body temperature can cause heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, cramps, dehydration, clammy skin, and nausea.

If you ever feel any of these symptoms, move to a cool place, drink some water, relax for a while and after some time, take a bath or put wet cloths on your body. If the situation worsens and you tend to puke and feel uneasy, immediately go to see a doctor.

Heat exhaustion can be really dangerous, so you need to be really careful before stepping out of your place during summer. You need to take extra care of yourself.

Lots of mosquito bites

When the weather is warm, we feel like spending most of our evening outdoors, embracing nature, dining al fresco, enjoying a backyard party. But while you are outdoors, mosquitoes might make you their buffet.

Summers are the prime time for mosquitoes and these little vampires mature faster during this season. And these mosquito bites might lead to sickness or cause diseases like malaria or dengue.

So, before hanging out with your friends and family, make sure to apply some ointment or spray that keeps these mosquitoes away from you and try wearing those clothes that cover your full body.

Heat Stroke

Heat Stroke is the most serious form of heat injury and is usually the result of prolonged exposure to physical exertion in high temperatures. It is an emergency that needs immediate medical treatment, as it can cause damage to your brain, heart, kidneys, and other muscles. It often occurs from the progression of milder heat-related problems but can come on suddenly as well.

Tips to get away with the Summer Heat

When the temperature rises, your body reacts in different ways. So, here are some tips to make your summer go smoothly.

Keep drinks on the lighter side

Everyone love milkshakes and smoothies during summers, right? We drink banana shake, apple shake, vanilla, chocolate, and other flavored smoothies as well. But these are too heavy as it contains lots of sugar and ice cream and will not quench your thirst in summers. So, it’s better to opt for lighter beverages and stay hydrated and healthy.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is a very important part of summer eating. Keeping yourself hydrated doesn’t always mean to drink lots of water. Keep in mind that fluids can be in the form of either water or other beverages or even fluid-rich fruits and vegetables, like oranges, watermelon, grapes, etc.

The National Institute of Medicine tells us that men need around 13 glasses of fluid a day and women need about 9 glasses.

So, take care of your fluid intake!

Always apply Sunscreen Lotion

It is important to apply sunscreen lotion of at least SPF 45 in order to protect your skin from UV rays. Try to avoid going out in the during the peak hours i.e., 10am-4pm. If you have to be outside in the scorching sun, make sure you carry sunscreen with you and keep applying it every 2-3 hours. And if you have sensitive skin, mineral based sunscreen is best for your skin.

Exfoliate

Summer brings more dead skin cells to your body, as such it becomes important to exfoliate your skin to keep it healthy, smooth, and glowing. And you don’t have to buy any expensive products to exfoliate your skin. You can make your own lotion at home using oatmeal, yogurt and, milk. It’s the best exfoliating lotion for your skin during summers.

Try it out, you will actually feel the difference!

Exercise Regime

Do not avoid your exercise just because of the rising temperatures. Instead of working out outside, opt for indoors. You can join a gym, aerobic, Zomba or yoga classes. And make it a daily routine and tag along your friends as well to make it a fun activity. But do not skip exercise during summer as due to hot temperature your body become less active than winters and you tend to get tired more so exercise will keep you fit and healthy.

Olive Oil

Olive oil contains essential fatty acids that help skin resist UV damage. In order to protect your skin and keep it healthy, consume about 1-2 tablespoon of olive oil every day. You can add it to a bowl of salad or add in any dish to get all those essential fatty acids. These fatty acids are actually part of the cell membrane that keep in all that moisture your body loses through heat and sweat during the summer.

Diet in summers

The thought of healthy eating probably runs through our mind a dozen times a day. But even then we tend to eat a grilled cheese sandwich, chocolate shake, three-tier chocolate cake, so what’s the point of making a diet plan when we can’t follow it?

Most of us lead lives where we have been discreetly sucked into a food routine and are desperately trying to just get out of it. Amidst a number of lifestyle problems to deal with, we tend to forget or simply ignore our granny’s simple recipes and remedies of eating fresh and seasonal foods.

Summer brings a lot of juicy fruits and vegetables, lemon, mangoes, peaches, corn, and other fruits and veggies. Markets are abundant with fresh fruits and vegetables. So, we should eat seasonal produce more during summers to keep ourselves healthy.

Here are a few foods that you should include in your diet during the summer season.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are just not filled with antioxidants and Vitamin C, but also contain beneficial phytochemicals such as lycopene, which protect your skin from sunburn. If you can’t eat only tomatoes, you can mix it with your salad or make tomato curry or top your pasta or pizza with homemade tomato sauce.

Yogurt

Yogurt is actually made for summer eating. The protein in yogurt satisfies your growling tummy and keep you away from overloading salty and high-calorie snacks. If you purchase yogurt from any store, make sure it’s low in fat and high in protein. You can buy Dannon Oikos, Non-Fat Greek Yogurt. It’s delicious with high protein and low fat. Yogurt also helps your digestive system to run smoothly.

Green Tea

Green tea is the perfect way to supplement your water intake when it’s super hot outside. Studies have suggested that green tea may be helpful in fighting cancer and heart disease, lowering cholesterol, and accelerating your metabolism. And if sipping a hot drink in a hot month is not your cup of tea, try green tea with chilled water as the cooler temperature does not compromise its nutritional benefits.

Melons

Melons are the coolest, healthiest, and juices fruits of the summer. You can use them in salads, milkshakes, juices, desserts, and many dishes. Melons are really good for your health, they help in reducing weight, prevent problems such as cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, and the common cold.

A simple diet plan for summers:

Breakfast: Start your day with 2-3 fruits to neutralize your stomach acids make you feel light. You can include a few nuts as well.

Mid-Morning: A glass of coconut water or buttermilk to refresh you.

Lunch: A bowl of salad with 1-2 rotis and veggies and dals. Sometimes, you can substitute rotis with a bowl of rice.

Evening: Have fruit yogurt or fruit smoothie. They are filling, nourishing and will keep you fresh and cool.

Dinner: Always have a light dinner, especially during summers. Like, you can have Moong dal Chilada, Multi-grain rotis and veggies, brown rice pulao, stir-fried veggies, steamed dishes, low-fat paneer and include drinks like lemonade or jaljeera.

Summer Coolers

Humid days call for something chilled and frosty sips. So, include some flavourful combinations to get you through the season feeling cool, happy and refreshed.

Watermelon Juice

Watermelon juice is 90% water and it’s the best way to keep yourself hydrated. It helps with digestions and eating watermelon help protect skin from oxidative stress that contributes to the aging process and brightens the complexion. And it would be best if you have one glass of chilled watermelon juice daily in the summer season.

Aam Panna (Raw Mango Juice)

A glass of aam panna help with digestion, constipation and chronic stomach problems. You can easily make it at home according to your taste.

Mint Lemonade

One glass of strained mint water mixed with a few drops of lemon works wonders. It refreshes you and the drink acts as a liver cleanser, boosts your metabolism and helps those with low appetite.

Barley Water

You can have one-two glasses of barley water. You might find it bland so mix a few drops of lemon or honey in the barley water. Since barley water is rich in fiber, it prevents constipation and also helps in controlling your appetite.

So enjoy a sunburn- free, relaxing, soothing summer, spending time at home, work or traveling around the world with these tips. You will surely beat the summer heat and enjoy the season.

Feel fresh, cool, and happy this summer!

If you have any other tips to beat the summer heat this season, please leave your comments below J

The post How to Stay Away from the Summer Heat appeared first on Amazing Things.

This is how we have been celebrating the festival colors all the while with great enthusiasm to get drenched in colored water and enjoy scrumptious delights.

Different regions in India celebrate Holi in their own way. In Mathura, the festival of colors is popularly known as “Lath Maar Holi”, where women beat their husband with sticks and sing songs. In West Bengal, Holi is known as “Swing Festival”, where Radha and Krishna are worshipped.

The festivals are celebrated in different ways everywhere but no festival is complete without mouth-watering delicacies. Food is an integral part of every festival. Festivals are the perfect time to indulge yourself in the festive zeal with playful moments and adoring meals. When we talk about Holi celebrations, we think of sweet gujiyas, masala kachoris, thandai, and a lot more. Isn’t it?

So, while you prepare yourself to enjoy Holi with gulaal, water guns, singing, and dancing, add colors to your diners experience with these delightful dishes. It’s time to savor on tasty food and enjoy the colors of festivity.

Gujiya-A traditional Holi dish

Gujiya are sweet dumplings made of maida or flour, filled with khoya and dry fruits mixture. It is famous in the northern parts of India. This festive favorite is a must to include in your dessert list on the special occasion of Holi Festival. This sweet dish comes in different variants:

Chocolate Gujiya

Try out going fusion this Holi. You might have made gujiyas filled with dry fruits and khoya. Why not try gujiyas stuffed with mava and chocolate chips. You can add cocoa powder or chocolate powder with mava and fill the dumplings. Garnish it with cream and chocolate sauce. Your kids will also love it!

Coconut Gujiya

Make gujiyas with all-purpose flour stuffed with dry fruits and coconut flakes. You can either bake them or fry them and dip it in the sugar syrup.

Bhaang Ladoos

Bhaang has become synonymous with Holi as it’s consumed in the Indian traditions and customs since ancient times. In Ayurveda, bhaang has properties to release anxiety. With so many specialties, you can’t miss out on this traditional Holi dish. Add bhaang ladoos in your list to make your Holi more delightful and fun.

Coconut Thandai

Thandai is most popular in northern states of India, especially in Rajasthan. It is among those holi special drinks traditionally made with saffron, almonds, pistachios, cardamom powder, sugar, milk, and different kind of herbs. All these ingredients are blended well with milk and is served chilled.

To try out something different blend coconut in the milk with all other ingredients. Thandai with a twist!

 If you want to try bhaang on this festival of Holi, Mixing bhaang in Thandai is a great combination to savour the taste.

Kachori

Kachoris, again the mouth-watering dish of northern parts of India. Kachoris are stuffed with a spicy mixture of arhar dal (a kind of yellow pulse), spices, fried and crisp. There are a number of varieties of Kachoris, Khasta Kachori, Matar Ki LKachori, Pyaz Ki Kachori, Dal Ki Kachori.

The outer layer of kachori is made of all purpose flour (maida) and then it is stuffed with the spicy mixture of peas or dal or onions. It’s a fried snack served with tamarind and coriander chutneys.

Dahi Vada and Kanji Vada

Made with urad dal and moong dal, this Holi delicacy is deep fried dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with tangy tamarind chutney, coriander chutney, spices like chili powder, cumin powder, and salt. The sweet, sour, and salty taste of the dish is just to die for. You can add other ingredients as well as per your preference and taste.

Kanji is a dark wine-coloured, tangy drink to quench the thirst of many during Holi. To add wine color in Kanji, sliced beetroot can be added along with sliced carrot, powdered mustard seeds, red chili, salt, and water. Keep this mixture under sunlight for 3-4 days to get the best taste of Kanji. And soak vadas in this tangy water for an adoring taste.

Mango Basundi

Mango Basundi is a famous traditional dessert in the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. It is basically thickened milk flavoured with cardamom, saffron, rose water and lots of mangoes pieces and pulps. The taste of mangoes and creamy milk is delightful and give a royal taste. The sprinkle of dry fruits enhances the taste of this classic dessert that soothes your taste buds after a heavy meal.

Falooda

This refreshing dessert is actually a Persian drink that got really popular in India. Made with a milk base, falooda vermicelli, falooda seeds (babchi) fruits, ice-cream, rose syrup, sugar, and dry fruits toad crunchy element to it. This is a mouth-watering delicious recipe really hard to resist. This recipe will surely impress everyone with its luscious taste. Falooda comes in different varieties-Kesar Flaooda, Mango Falooda, Raspberry Falooda, Custard Falooda and you can try out your own innovation.

Chocolate Shrikhand

You might have heard of Kesar Shrikhand and Mango Shrikhand but ever thought of trying Chocolate Shrikhand? Shrikhand in chocolate avatar be a surprise for chocolate lovers. You can give a chocolaty twist to the traditional shrikhand that would be loved by the kids as well as adults. The creamy texture and chocolaty taste would make everyone love the dish.

Broken Maize Yogurt

This is a dish made with broken maize or corn kernels crushed into smaller pieces which is first boiled and then mixed with yogurt with some spices like cumin powder, chili powder, and salt. It is a famous dish of Rajasthan.

Along with the nutritional benefits of broken maize its super quick, easy, delicious, and can be served with any meal as a side dish.

Kulfi

Who doesn’t love a creamy concoction that is delicately fragrant and frozen? One of the most loved Indian desserts- Kulfi! Kulfi traditionally has one primary ingredients-full fat milk that has to be boiled for hours to adorn a smooth and caramelized flavour. The secret to this lovely dessert is the right amount of caramelization of milk.

You can try out a variety of kulfi from paan kulfi to choco-dip kulfi. The base is the same, you just have to add the flavors you like. So, which flavour are you trying out this Holi?

Apart from all the traditional dishes, try out some fusion delicacies this Holi.

This Holi Festival, eat to your heart’s content!

Happy Holi

The post Savour Special Delicacies this Holi Festival appeared first on Amazing Things.

I don’t understand the concept but then yes, people say if we express love often, it won’t be that valuable, so to express that amount of love we need one special day to shower our beloved with lots of happiness. Agreed!

But if you really want to do something special for your partner, do something creative.  Do not just indulge in giving those expensive jewellery, chocolates, roses, and other materialistic presents. You can go a little extra mile and think of some innovative ways to spend this special day with your loved one.

You will surely agree with me that Valentine’s Day is just another event to spend money on fancy candies and flowers. Valentine’s Day is all about love, so shouldn’t your gifts show it? Sometimes, the most appreciated gifts are for free–a massage or a snuggling into the blanket and watching a movie or a series.

Here are some sweet gestures that will remind your significant other how much you care about him/her.

1. A Spa Night

Surprise your significant other with a spa and a massage session. Sounds interesting, isn’t it? You can fill up the bathtub with foam and rose petals and glass of wine or any other drink that you both love and some chocolates to nibble on by the side of the bathtub. Also, arrange for some soft and romantic music.

And also prepare the bedroom for a massage session. Line the bed with fresh towels and arrange for spa products or you can just give him/her a massage with some essential oils or lotion or moisturizer. Give him/her a gentle and sexy massage. And then, you can plan up something sexy and romantic, depend on you two.

This is one of the best ways to spend time together where you don’t have to spend much time, effort and money. And trust me, with this plan you both will have a great time together!

2. A Candle-light Dinner at Home

If you love cooking, make a home-made Valentine’s special meal that you both love. And if cooking is not your forte, order from your favorite place, but ditch those containers and re-plate the meal elegantly. For an extra special touch, you can also write a sweet and touching message for your partner and leave it on the dining table.

Make it more romantic with a bunch of candles. Switch off all the overhead lights and lamps, just lit a few candles all over the room. These candles will instantly make the ambiance more romantic.

Bring out the chef in you this Valentine’s and surprise your partner!

3. Surprise your beloved with Breakfast in Bed

You don’t have to spend hours on making an sumptuous meal. Look out in your pantry and fridge, whip up something easy, like sandwiches, omelettes, tea/coffee, cookies, fruits, but make it presentable and special with a love note. You will surely get a brownie point if you can make any food into a heart-shape: P.

Wake him/her up with a gentle kiss and a hug and surprise him with this special breakfast. It will surely make his day!

Easy right? So, take a chill-pill this Valentine’s and enjoy the day without any pressure of buying any gift.

4. Stargaze together

Cuddling up with your partner in a blanket with a glass of wine and gazing stars is truly bliss! Stargazing with your significant other is an easy and fun Valentine’s Day idea.

You just need to be patient and pet your eyes adjust to the dark. Just lay down and enjoy your partner’s company, make a conversation, cuddle with each other and enjoy the night. The romance comes when you connect with each other.

What do you think now, is there is anything fancy that you need to create the romance?

5. Write a letter or mail them

If you want to truly acknowledge your loved one, simply write a letter or mail them. It shows how thoughtful you are and it’s an instant keepsake. You don’t have to be a poet or even good at spelling or grammar, the sincerity of words are enough to express your love.

Just let them know how much they mean to you, what you admire about them and mention your favorite shared memories or inside jokes.

Most people won’t be expecting a letter, which makes it all the way better.

Valentine’s Day has become commercialized to deplete your bank account. However, celebrating Valentine’s Day means celebrating love which should be all about your thoughts, expression and how much you value one another. And your date will surely remember the sweet gesture than pricey bouquet or gift.

So, make the most of this Valentine’s Day! Be romantic, be thoughtful, presentable, expressive, and most importantly respect each other!

The post 5 Unique Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day appeared first on Amazing Things.

Let’s see how these countries celebrate this day of love in their own style.

France

It is said that that first-ever Valentine’s Day was created in France, when Charles, The Duke of Orleans, sent love letters to his wife from the prison in 1415. With this, the people of France started celebrating Valentine’s Day. The French village called “Valentine” turns into a place of romance between 12^th to 14^th February. The yards and trees are fully decorated with fairy lights and homes are decked with love cards, roses, marriage flake proposals. One can say it’s one of the most beautiful Valentine’s Day tradition around the world.

South Korea

The couples in South Korea celebrate their love 14^th of each month. Now, this is interesting, right? They celebrate “Rose Day” on 14^th May, “Kiss Day” on 14^th June, and “Hug Day” in December. They have a tradition where singles wear a black dress and celebrate eating black noodles (jjajang myeon) with their friends in April, hence the day is known as “Black Day”. And like in many other countries, people in South Korea also exchange gifts, flowers, chocolates with their loved ones.

Denmark

Denmark celebrates the day of love and romance with a twist. People in Denmark believe that Valentine’s Day is a day of love, so it’s not only about lovers, it’s also about friends and family. And this special day is just not limited to the exchange of gifts, roses, and chocolates. People who celebrate Valentine’s Day in Denmark exchange handmade cards with pressed white flowers, called snowdrops.

Adorable, right?

Japan

The Valentine’s Day celebration gets as sweet as chocolates in Japan. Japan has a very fascinating Valentine’s Day tradition. The girls give chocolates to the guys and these chocolates are divided into categories. If a girl gives “Giri Choco” to her male friend, colleague or supervisor, it means she is giving these chocolates as an obligation with no romantic association. On the other hand, if a girl gives “Honmei Choco” with a handmade gift, it implies she has some other kind of affection towards that guy.

However, the guy does not give anything in return on that day. He has to return the gift with chocolates and other gifts after a month that is, on March 14, known as “White Day”. Guys, you get an ample time to celebrate: P

Germany

The Valentine’s Day in Germany has become popular recently. The locals celebrate it with great enthusiasm. The couples exchange flowers, chocolates, heart-shaped gifts and other gifts with something special. You will be either surprised or shocked when you will read what that special thing is.

It’s a pig!

Yes, you read it right! Germans believe pig represents luck and lust, and it can be given in a picture form, a small miniature statue, and chocolates in the shape of a pig or anything that is suitable. Also, Germans prepare heart-shaped ginger cookies to give their loved ones which contains romantic phrases and messages.

Taiwan

Taiwan is famous for its flowers and if flowers are said to be romantic, Taiwan celebrates the most romantic Valentine’s Day in the world. They celebrate the day of love twice a year: 14^th February and 7^th July.

According to Taiwanese tradition, the color and number of roses represent a message for their loved ones. For example, a red rose signifies only “love”, ninety-nine red roses indicates “love forever”, and one hundred and eight roses pop up the question, “Will you marry me”?

So, ready to celebrate Valentine’s this year with Taiwanese Tradition? If yes, think carefully before giving out the roses: P

Italy

Originally, Italians used to celebrate Valentine’s Day as the Spring Festival. Everyone used to gather in the gardens and enjoy poetry reading before taking a stroll with their beloved.

Italians even had another intriguing Valentine’s Day tradition for young and unmarried girls. The belief was that the first man an unmarried girl saw after waking up in the morning would be the man whom she would marry within a year. This is a little weird, but yes, it was a tradition and people followed it whole-heartedly.

Today, Italians celebrate Valentine’s Day similar to that of many other countries with exchanging of gifts and followed by a romantic dinner. The most popular Valentine gift is “Baci Perugina”, hazelnuts covered with chocolate, wrapped with romantic quotes in four different languages. This gift is a must on Valentine’s Day if you really want to woo your partner.

South Africa

South Africa celebrates Valentine’s Day with flowers and other tokens of love. But, the tradition does not end here, it has a twist. The women in South Africa wear heart-shaped paper and pin it on their sleeves with the names of their love interest. This is an ancient Roman tradition known as “Lupercalia”. And this is also one of the ways South African men learn of their secret admirers. Interesting, isn’t it?

Don’t you think if you are celebrating Valentine’s this year, you should make it a special one by following some different tradition? Think over it, your partner will surely love it. Celebrate in a unique style and surprise your partner!

So, which tradition are you going to follow this year?

The post Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a Unique Tradition appeared first on Amazing Things.

Every store, malls, shopping complexes, restaurants gleams with sparkling decoration. These stores and restaurants offer various couple schemes and discounts. And the gift stores buzz like a beehive.

These businesses actually take a boom as many people celebrate Valentine’s Day with extravagance and ornateness.

The couples plan grand surprises for their partners and put quite a lot of effort, time, and money to woo their partner. They want this special day to be “perfect” to express their love and affection to their partner.

Couples plan a dinner date, book spa appointments, buy expensive gifts, and many starts celebrating this V-Day a week before and send different gifts every day to their lover.

Celebrating love is virtuous, but why celebrate love only on this particular day? What about the other 365 days?

Honestly, I have never been Valentine’s Day fan. I do not understand the concept of giving gifts or expressing love on just one day of the year.

Do most of us even know why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day or the origin of this day?

I don’t think so. Mostly, people know that the day was named after St. Valentine and do not have any reliable information that can be traced down to facts.

So technically, we have no idea why we go so frenzy when February begins.

I don’t understand why it’s so much hyped in the first place!

Are we blindly doing something just because rest of the world is doing it? Don’t you feel Valentine’s Day has become a day filled with consumerism?

I have seen many people spending a huge amount of money to buy gifts and plan surprises for their partner. Valentine’s Day has become a kind of event to spend money to express love to their partners. Sure, it’s one’s personal choice. I am just of the opinion that Valentine’s Day should not be the only day to shower your loved ones with love, care, surprises, and gifts.

There is nothing wrong thinking out of the box and gifting your partner and returning favors. And if you feel Valentine’s is the best day to remind you to go extra special and it serves your purpose, go ahead! But do know, if this day brings a pressure on you or on your partner to do something special, it will surely lead to disappointment in the future.

However, I believe love is not about chocolates, teddy bears, roses, expensive jewellery; there are better ways to express love. The small gestures that spread out over the course of relationship are important than a grand celebration on just one day. What do you think about it?

For me, an element of genuine surprise, love, care and a small gesture would be more affectionate than these forced romantic rituals.

Why do I need Valentine’s Day when I can go for a candle-light dinner with my guy on any random day? When I can gift him something nice that he actually needs without any reason. When I can make him feel special by surprising him on any weekend or any day?

I prefer to express my love whenever I feel to or when it’s least expected rather when they are supposed to be done.

What’s love?

Love is when you cook for each other or head to any café in your pyjamas. When you laugh over each other’s stupid jokes, fix each other’s hair, dance with each other like crazy, go for a walk, engage in some meaningless conversation and later laugh over it.

We (my guy and me) have been spending Valentine’s Day like any other day as the vibe of this day never charmed us. It’s like any other random day for us.

We prefer to spend some quality time together, even if it’s just sitting and watching a movie or series. It’s the presence of each other that actually matters!

And it’s just not on Valentine’s Day but all the days throughout!

Valentine’s Day is totally worse for those who are single. It’s like a curse for them. People who are happily single are made to feel like shit as they are not sharing candle-light dinner with anyone, not being showered with gifts, not even getting laid in most of the cases. Seeing couples at each and every corner of the street, they cry over it.

I don’t think single people need to cry over these things as you celebrate love with your friends, family and love yourself. Celebrating love doesn’t mean you need someone to celebrate with. You can do this on any day and with any of your close and loved ones.

Isn’t it?

Celebrate love throughout the year and make your partner feel special every day, utter those lovely words every day, appreciate them often, surprise them randomly, shower them with extra love and care, support them, understand them, and spend quality time together. This is what celebrating love is all about!

The post Why Celebrate Valentine’s Day? appeared first on Amazing Things.

Our lives have become full of screens. We wake up to them, we come home to them, and we carry them all the day in our pockets or bags and do not even miss a single notification. However, experts warn that this constant exposure could be damaging our health.

Technology surely is useful and educational and it allows us to connect with one another. It is one of the sources of education, creativity, and enjoyment. I myself can’t think of disconnecting with these gadgets even for a moment.

But if it begins to distract you, your job, and education or negatively affect your relationships, it becomes dangerous. So, it is fine to periodically unplug yourself from these at times. It might sting a bit at first, but to keep your mind and soul at peace, you will need to make that extra effort. Willing to give it a twirl?

However, it is not easy to stick to a much-needed digital detox. To avoid becoming a slave to your smartphone, or any gadget you need a level of self-discipline, self-control, and a digital break.

Here, we have listed a few tips that you could adhere if you seriously want to try digital detox cation.

1. Give yourself an allowance

You can set your time limit or restrict the time you spend using technology; cut down to a little so that you can focus on the “real world” and “real experience”. This way you will be encouraged to enjoy social life in person rather than through a digital screen.

2. Ensure to get enough sleep

Do not keep your phone beside you while you sleep, if you need an alarm to wake up in the morning, keep an alarm clock instead of setting up on your phone. You can read a book or any magazine before you sleep rather than using any gadget.

So, make sure you turn off all your gadgets at least an hour before you go to sleep. This way you will definitely spend some quality time with your family and spouse.

3. Leave your gadgets at home

Try leaving gadgets at home, or just going out without headphone or iPod or iPad once in a while. Rather than thinking life without gadgets is boring, listen to the chirping of birds when you go for a morning walk or jogging, have conversation with other people when traveling rather than indulging with your phone or iPad.

You might think you will miss a lot of things but no, if you don’t do this, you are actually missing out a lot in reality. Do not watch everything through a screen!

4. Turn off push notifications

To reduce digital dependency, you need to turn off your phone’s push notifications for social media apps, be it, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or any app that sends you a notification if someone likes or comments on the post. You don’t have to completely switch off from your social media, rather what you can do is: set a specific time and duration to scroll through these apps. Fix it! This way you are not going completely offline rather choosing when to access your social media and networks. Isn’t it great to have a set routine?

5. Switch to Airplane Mode while working out

Many people use their phones to listen to their playlist while working out as listening music and working out go together and it’s pretty much fun. But stopping in the mid-interval to check your Instagram notification or liking someone’s post isn’t the most prolific way to burn calories. Before you head to your gym, make sure to switch your phone to airplane mode, this way you will surely sculpt a better body and peaceful mind. And you will focus more on your workout, not on social networks.

6. Do not use the phone while having meals

Do you often check your phone while having lunch or dinner at the dining table or when you are out with family or friends? Remember, dining while distracted by your phone undermines the whole experience. When we use our phones while we are spending time with our family or friends, apart from offending them, we experience less of everything. To enjoy the full experience, have a rule: if you are going out with anyone, do not use the phone much, just answer important calls. Ensure you spend some good time with them.

7. Rediscover Paper

You might have noticed reading a book feels more satisfying than reading a tablet. And it’s true! Books do not distract you much and according to research, when we read on paper, our mind process abstract information more effectively. So, get a newspaper or a book and read it!

Usage of a phone may be contagious. People are more likely to use their phones when others around them are also using the phones. It is a kind of domino effect. By using less of your phone or putting it away, you might be creating a positive domino effect.

So, why not start digital detox cation right now?

References:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/better/technology/9-ways-to-start-and-stick-to-a-digital-detox/
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-18039/11-tips-for-your-next-digital-detox.html

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It’s pretty interesting how the countries prepare dishes in different ways for the same festival. It’s totally diverse. So, let’s see different Christmas food traditions all around the world.

1. Christmas Fried Chicken, Japan

Most of the Japanese families eat at KFC on the day of Christmas, they actually need to reserve their meal two months in advance. This tradition began in 1974 when KFC created an advertising campaign called “Kentucky for Christmas” and it became widely popular in Japan. Japanese people did not have any Christmas traditions, so KFC filled that void by introducing Kentucky Fried Chicken.

2. Christmas Delicacies cookies and sweets, India

The communities in India celebrate Christmas with sweets ranging from kidiyo, a deep-fried dough balls coated in icing sugar to cookies and fruitcakes. Other sweet treats that you will find in India are cardamom, almond, and cashew macarons, gulab jamuns, jalebis, and other Indian winter desserts. The main dinner generally includes biryani with lamb, mutton curry, accompanied by other Indian dishes and veggies.

3. Christmas Goose, Germany

Germans enjoy a lavish multi-course Christmas dinner. Their dinner consists of Weihnactsgans, goose, often stuffed with onions, chestnuts, prunes with different German spices, Krustenbraten, pork roasted with a crispy rind, accompanied by dumplings, red cabbage, and gravy. And finally the dessert, Weihnachtsplatzchenm, it’s a traditional platter of cookies.  This food tradition was originally tied to St. Martin’s Day, but eventually became a part of the Christmas meal.

4. Panettone, Italy

When it comes to Christmas dinner, Italy has various traditions in different regions. In some parts of Italy, people enjoy “The Feast of Seven Fishes”.  This meal includes seven different kinds of fishes prepared in seven different ways.  Sweets have their own importance when it comes to Italian food during Christmas. Italians prepare a dessert called, Panettone- a cake with candied fruits, chocolates, and raisins, and nuts. This is the most popular one and other sweets include marzipan, zeppole, pondor and many more delicacies.

5. Plum Pudding, England

Plum Pudding is a key Christmas dessert in England. Do not delude by its name, as the pudding does not actually include plum. In Pre-Victorian era, plums were referred to raisins, and as dried fruits are important ingredients of this recipe, it is how it earned its name. This Christmas pudding is set alight with brandy before it is served.

6. Three-course meal and Saffron buns, Sweden

Christmas dinner in Sweden is served as a three-course meal, knows as “Julboard”. The first course includes fish, pickled herring, the second involves Christmas ham along with sausages. And the last meal covers metaballs and potato casserole called Janssons Frestelse.

As we know without dessert, no meal is complete. So, the Swedish prepare saffron buns, it’s a popular rice pudding, yellow in color as saffron is used. Saffrons buns are served to the family by the eldest daughters, by tradition. But, you sure can try your hands making these sweet saffron buns.

7. United States

Christmas dinner in the US varies from one household to the other and it is generally similar to that of Thanksgiving. The meal generally includes ham and turkey with different stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. Christmas cookies and pies are equally popular among the US people. There is plenty of booze-spiked eggnogs as well to wash it all down.

8. Portugal

The Portuguese fast on Christmas Eve, following the Catholic tradition. On the day of Christmas, they prepare Bacalhau, or salt cod which is a main staple Christmas dinner. This is accompanied with boiled eggs, boiled cabbage, and boiled potatoes. The Portuguese love desserts so the list is endless. Some of the desserts served are biscoitos de natal-Christmas cookies and leite de creme-an egg custard.

Every country has their own food tradition and their way of preparation and celebration.

So, what meals or treats are you planning for this Christmas? Do share with us in the comment section below about your Christmas delicacies.

We wish you all Bon Appetit and A Merry Christmas !

Also read : Best Places for Fusion Food

The post Christmas Delicacies around the World appeared first on Amazing Things.

I am sure everyone who works in the kitchen would love to know kitchen hacks. These kitchen hacks are practical and save a lot of time, energy and effort.

Here are few kitchen hacks that would surely help you speed up your cooking process and help to become a star chef!

1. Lemon Therapy

Whenever you cook lady’s finger (Bhindi), you find it sticking together and the same holds true for rice. So, how to ensure that rice and lady’s finger do not stick together? You can just add few drops of lemon juice to avoid the stickiness. And added tip: heat lemon in a microwave of 10-15 seconds to squeeze out all the juice from it.

2. Mayonnaise at Home

If you are running out of mayonnaise at home and do not want to go to the store just to buy mayonnaise, here is how you can make mayo at home. You just need to simply blend 1 egg with 150ml of olive oil and add some milk and cream to the mixture. Tadaa, Mayonnaise is ready!

3. Raw Potato and Milk Therapy

If your dish has become extra salty, fret not! A couple of spoons of milk will surely neutralize the taste or if you fear your dish might become liquid-y, adding a raw potato or small balls of dough will do the trick!

4. Oil Obsession

Craving French Fries, but can’t stop thinking about the gallons of oil you will consume? Do not worry! Just boil the potatoes before frying and add cornflour and mix it well and freeze it for 2-3 hours. The potatoes will cook faster and consume less oil. Try it out and enjoy French fries!

5. Fresh Paneer

To keep paneer fresh for days, place it in a blotting paper before you refrigerate them. Also, instead of frying paneer, boil it keep spongy, soft and fresh.

6. Prevent fungus in Pickles

In order to prevent fungus from accumulating in the Pickle jar, burn or roast  a small amount of hing (Asafoetida) and invert the empty jar on this burnt hing for a while and follow this up by filling up the Pickle.

7. Overripe Tomatoes

If the tomatoes go overripe, just place these in cold water and some salt to it. Leave them overnight and they will become fresh and form the next morning.

8. Save cut fruits from browning

You probably want to cut fruits for afternoon or evening while you are working in the kitchen so as to save time to meet your deadline. But you hate it when the fruits get discoloured. Here is a trick. A mixture of one part of honey to two parts of water works well to avoid discoloration in fruits or you can try pout squeezing lemon juice over the cut fruits and refrigerate it. This would work as well!

9. Don’t let chillies or pepper burn your fingers

To avoid chilli or pepper’s spice remain on your fingers, rub oil onto the fingers tips and then chop.

10. Consistency in Custard

Everyone loves custard that’s consistent, thick and is similar to whipped cream. However, sometimes it might turn out to be thin. Don’t panic! You can just take a tablespoon of flour and mix it in the custard but make sure you mix it well so there are no lumps. If the custard is still too thin you can add more flour to it and cook it for 5-10 minutes more and simply put it in the refrigerator. The custard will thicken!

If you love cooking and spend most of the time in kitchen, you should know all these hacks
that would increase your productivity and effectiveness while working. These simple and innovative smart kitchen hacks will save your time and effort as well. Try these out and share with your family and friends and let us know how it worked out.

I am sure you would have loved these simple hacks and please let us know more kitchen tricks by posting in the comment section below.

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I feel homemade crafty gifts are just perfect when you are in a long distance relationship as they have a personal touch and is also a symbol of love and affection.

But, here I am not giving the idea of old photo collage. Here is a list of some interesting gift ideas for your long distance partner that will give them a little part of you!

1. The Countdown Chocolate Jar

You can send your partner a jar full of their favourite chocolates with some twist. You can just count the number of days left for them to see you next and put the exact number of chocolates or candies in the jar, from which your partner will eat one chocolate every day that will remind him/her of you!

2. The Care Package

This one is my favourite! You can take a cardboard box or a shoe box and wrap it with an attractive paper or sheet and fill it up with your partner’s favourite stuff. You can put chocolates, shirts, t-shirts., little munchies, letter, photographs, and some kinky stuff: P (that they might keep it safe until you meet). This will be a really thoughtful gift and also will make them realise how much you care for them!

3. Handmade Frames

The frames are to keep memories alive and you can either keep in your bedroom or living room. These cute little frames are just a perfect fit for something that you want highlight, may be a message or a photo(s). These are really easy to make and are adorable!

4. Letters or e-mails

You know you can best express your feelings through writing. This is something that I do as I am really bad at expressing things verbally. You can actually write your partner a series of letters, individually sealed that they can open on any occasion. Trust me, they will fall in love with you again!

5. Crafty Bookmark

This is for the book lovers. You can create an adorable crafty bookmark that you can send with a novel you have been meaning to read together with your partner. This can be one of the nest gifts for your bookworm partner.

These gifts might sound little sugary to you but trust me, this might be really rewarding for
both of you. I have written these with experience and have crafted myself for my boyfriend
when I was in a long distance relationship with him. And he loved the thought of putting such effort and handmade gifts are really special than anything expensive you buy (that’s what I feel).

I know and can understand how difficult it is to stay apart and still keep the love alive. But we know right, what we are doing and for whom we are doing is worth all the effort!

So, what is the best hand-crafted gift you have ever given or received from your long distance partner? Have you tried any of the ideas above?

Please let us know if you would like to try out these and if you any other gift ideas for long
distance relationship in the comment section below.

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Here are the all new Apps for you

Storyboard

This app is currently available on Android Platform only. Storyboard transforms your videos into comics. It selects, lays out, and stylizes video frames using experimental research technology from Google that runs entirely on your device. Its very easy & simple to use as other Google’s Apps. You need to Load a Video than Pull down to refresh till you get your desired layout & Tap on it to select. Your creativity can be Saved or shared. You can download this all from Google Play.

Selfissimo!

This App is for both Android & iOS platforms. This App is really amazing. It will take your Black & White selfie each time to pose in a new style. When you finish your poses, tab anywhere on screen to see your all selfies in different poses. Now you can select from the grid & Save or Share them. It uses experimental research technology from Google to capture photos automatically each time you pose. iPhone/iPad user can download this from App Store & Android phone user from Google Play

Scrubbies

Google has launched this App only for iOS platform currently. It lets you easily manipulate the speed and direction of video playback to produce amazing video loops that highlight actions, capture funny faces, and replay moments.
How you can use this App – Open the App, tab on Get Started & shoot a video. Click on recording button to once you finish your video. Now you can it back by swiping with one finger. Swipe it with two fingers to record the playback. Here is your loop ready, now you can share it with word & save in phone. You can always return to your captured footage as it automatically saved in the gallery. You can download it from iOS App Store

For more & detailed information, you can go through Google Research Blog Please let us know how much you liked these apps in our comment section below.

Enjoy New Photography highs…!!!

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