Retropoplifestyle

Do's & Dont's

HACKS FOR A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

 By Dolly Kumar,Director Gaia

Are you troubled with your sedentary lifestyle and looking for a change? Well, some prefer to go all-in and change everything at the same time while the others prefer a longer and slower approach; making small changes, one at a time.
If you belong to the latter, then the following are the simple hacks for a healthier lifestyle that will benefit you in the longer term.
DOs

  • Fill with Protein

First of all, high protein diets help boost your metabolism, i.e. how many calories you burn while you rest. Secondly, protein can be filling and help reduce your appetite, making you automatically eat less of other calorie sources.  So cut on carbohydrates and sugar in every meal and fill it with protein. Indulge in a platter of protein from lean meat or vegetable protein from various seasonal vegetables like spinach, broccoli, peas, etc.

  • Drink ample of Water and pair with Honey

Water helps you burn more calories and help suppress your appetite. Experts recommend drinking eight, 8-oz glasses of water (about 2 liters) per day. However, this number is completely random as water requirements depend entirely on the individual. Add a dash of Honey to your glass of water every morning and gulp down numerous benefits! Besides helping in regulation of fats, honey is also a natural remedy for many ailments. A great substitute to sugar, it helps in managing calorie better while adding many healthy nutrients in place of empty calories.

  • Indulging in Physical Activities

Regardless of your shape or size, physical activity is very important. The benefits of physical activity are not restricted to exercise performed in the gym. In fact, one of the easiest ways to improve your health may be through simple activities like brisk walking, bicycling, running, etc. to name a few.
DON’Ts

  • Don’t start your day with an empty stomach

Breakfast is a Big Deal! There really is NO valid excuse not to eat a healthy breakfast.  As the old saying goes ‘Eat Breakfast like a King, Lunch like a Prince and Dinner like a Pauper’ – breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. Having a healthy breakfast can reap in a number of health benefits, besides providing you that energy kick you need to jumpstart your day.  Add wholegrains, eggs

  • Don’t eat large portions, but smaller portions more often

Experts agree that instead of two or three large meals a day, five to six small meals is way more better for your health. Small portions help your body convert less of the food you eat into fat and maintain a constant blood-sugar level, making you less likely to experience dip of energy. So indulge in small portions of supper and munch into light snacking when the stomach starts growling. But remember, don’t gorge into unhealthy macaroni or sugary cookies, instead opt for healthy options like nuts and dried fruits which not only fill your munchies, but also give you loads of nutrients.

ETIHAD GUEST AND BOOKING.COM FORM REWARDS PARTNERSHIP

A FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM

Abu Dhabi, Unitd Arab Emirates – Etihad Guest, the award-winning loyalty program of Etihad Airways, signed a frequent flyer program agreement with Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, which enables Etihad Guest customers to earn Etihad Guest Miles when booking accommodation through Booking.com on a special co-branded version of the website.

Depending on the accommodation booked, customers will earn between three and six Etihad Guest Miles for every USD 1 spent, starting August 1, 2019.

Yasser Al Yousuf, Etihad Airways Vice President Commercial Partnerships, said: “We are always looking for new ways to add value to our loyalty programme and now through this partnership with Booking.com, we are delighted to give travellers the ability to earn Etihad Guest Miles not only when booking flights, but their accommodation as well.”

“We are constantly exploring new collaborations that enable us to help connect even more travelers with their ideal stay, whether that’s a 5-star resort, a cosy B&B or chic city apartment,” said Ripsy Bandourian, Vice President of Partnerships at Booking.com. “We’re delighted to be partnering with Etihad Guest and providing additional value to our mutual customers that truly enhances their overall shopping and trip experience.”

Etihad Guest Miles will automatically be awarded 8 to 12 weeks after the guests complete their stay and can be redeemed for flights and upgrades with Etihad Airways, over 20 airline partners globally, as well as electronics, fashion items and gifts from a range of over 3,000 leading brands available at Etihad Guest’s Reward Shop.

CRAFTING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Handloom Symposium @ Crafts Museum
#HandloomEveryday

To mark Handloom Day on August 7, the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) on behalf of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, organized a Handloom Symposium on August 7, at the Crafts Museum, Pragati Maidan in the capital.[penci_video url=”https://youtu.be/KKDsI90LWmo” align=”center” width=”” /]

The esteemed panelists included the doyen of the style world, Ritu Kumar, sari historian Rta Kapur Chishti, designers David Abraham and Madhu Jain and master-printer Ramkishore Chippa Derawala, who discussed the topic ‘Can our Handloom Heritage of the Past be a Springboard to the Future?’ The panel agreed, inventive designs, increase usage of natural fibers and updating the handloom sector as well as offering financial support and infrastructure, was the need of the hour.[penci_video url=”https://youtu.be/XZ_qtAi6Z3Q” align=”left” width=”” /]

“We have a 2,000-year-old legacy of handlooms and this sector employs over 43 lakh people. It is a revenue-driver that needs to be nurtured and resuscitated and on Handloom day, we collectively pledge to replenish the loom. We support the Minister of Textiles, Smt Smriti Irani and the office of DC(Handlooms) in their mission to take handlooms global and make it a lighthouse for New India,” said FDCI Chairman Sunil Sethi.

#underfashion

Actress Swara Bhasker visits Clovia’s Kalkaji store on its first anniversary

Clovia, India’s lingerie, loungewear, and activewear brand celebrated the first anniversary of its Kalkaji store in New Delhi with the ace Bollywood actress Swara Bhasker, on Tuesday. Bringing in the celebrations with a brief meet and greet session, Swara donned a sexy yet classy Clovia bralette paired with a jacket & trousers for the anniversary gala.

 The celebration started with a small cake cutting ceremony by Swara and Team Clovia, post which she excitedly headed to check Clovia’s latest lingerie & loungewear collection.

To enhance the festive fervor, Clovia also announced fun offers for its customers throughout this week.

Sharing her views about the brand and the diverse collection,  Swara Bhasker said “When it comes to style and comfort, Clovia is my go-to brand. It was a pleasure being associated with Clovia especially on the occasion of their Kalkaji store turning 1”

Talking about the celebrations and the association with Swara Bhaskar, Soumya Kant, Founding Member, Clovia, said: “We are glad to have come so far in such a short time and would like to thank all our valued customers, who have helped us create a strong foothold in the Indian lingerie market.”

Happiness is Wood-Made!

Fascinating Rakshabandhan Gift Ideas for a Timeless Love

Ditch the clichéd gift ideas of giving customized mugs, wallets and other things that are just for show, and go for a timeless way. For all, they need to feel is ‘love’ and ‘endless love’ which cannot be summed up in words.

Lokendra Ranawat, Founder & CEO, WoodenStreet list gift ideas to convey your sibling of the ‘affection, care and concern’ you have through the wooden delights:

  1. Photo frames:It can be a moment you first saw your sibling or a moment when you had your first family trip, or it can be the first painting they sketched, every memory can be collected within a frame and cherished forever. Preserve your precious memories with a stylish wooden gift – photo frames! Because you always need a reason to smile.
  2. Wall-mounted study table:No matter how hard we try to ignore or hate the fact, but we want our siblings to study well and prosper amazing goals in their life. And, this Rakhi, we have a stylish gift that will make them spend more time on their studies. Overcoming the procrastination is the blessing you can give your little brother/sister, with a wall-mounted foldable study table! It is modish and highly functional, and is undeniably more useful than the soft toy you were about to gift!
  3. Wall Shelf:A gift that will not only make your sibling wonder how much you love them but will also make you re-live your childhood. Gift a wall shelf set to your best mate! Surprise them by assembling all the photographs sealing the embarrassing childhood reminiscences, or cool vacation trips pictures that you miss the most!

As the more we share, the more we have! Gift a customized wall shelf this Rakhi.

  1. A Blanket Box:Recalling the happy times will be the best way to spend the Rakhi eve. And, you can collect them all in a traditional and utterly gorgeous wooden blanket box, with some goodies and a photo-album. As it’s all in the little moments we spend with our best-friend – siblings!
  2. A wooden tray:A simple gift that will put up an instant smile on your sibling’s face! Make your sibling glow in happiness with a trendy storage tray. Alone, or filled with chocolate goodies, this will surely bring a smile on their face. Make this gift even more interesting and exclusively special by showcasing your cooking skills and serving their favourite dish on the tray.

EXPLORE ASTORIA ,QUEENS IN NEWYORK CITY

Astoria, Queens, is known for its Greek cuisine, cultural institutions and role in cinema history. Located just across the East River from Manhattan, the neighborhood has long been a Greek enclave—but it’s popular with New Yorkers and visitors of all stripes in part because of its easy access to Midtown via multiple subway lines. If you go, you’ll see why so many people have fallen in love with the area. To get you started, we put together this

Greek Coffee and American Culture

Start your morning by riding the N or W train to the last stop, Ditmars Boulevard, get off and walk south on 31st Street to Artopolis Bakery. There, you can get delicious treats like a peinirli (egg-and-gouda-filled bread) or baklava with honey and a dark Greek coffee. There are a lot of cookies, cakes and pastries to choose from—take a few to go for snacking later in the day.

After you’ve gotten your caffeine and carbs on, tune in to the history of movies and TV at the Museum of the Moving Image, which is located in a former building of Kaufman Astoria Studios. The museum is known for its interactive exhibits where you can learn how to edit a short movie or add sound effects to a scene, plus troves of costumes and memorabilia. Next to the museum, Kaufman Astoria Studios has been the filming location for many silent movies in the 1920s and, more recently, popular TV shows and films like Orange Is the New Black and The Greatest Showman. Kaufman is also home to Sesame Street, and the next-door museum has an extensive exhibit on Muppet creator Jim Henson that’s great for both kids and those who used to be kids.

Lunch and A Stroll in Two Parks

After spending your morning at the museum, have lunch at a landmark. Sanfords is an upscale diner, open seven days a week, that’s been serving up a wide range of comfort-food dishes since the 1920s. It’s a great spot for brunch favorites, hearty sandwiches and salads that will keep you going for the rest of the afternoon. Then head down Broadway for a stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park. This combination park and outdoor museum features original works by artists-in-residence beside seasonal exhibits on five acres of land along the East River waterfront. In addition to displaying art, Socrates Sculpture Park hosts special events like outdoor yoga and free movies.

Farther up the riverside, you’ll find lush Astoria Park, which has the City’s largest public swimming pool. The park’s winding paths are suited to leisurely walks, during which you can enjoy beautiful views of the river and Randall’s Island framed by Astoria’s two major bridges: the Robert F. Kennedy (formerly the Triborough) and the Hell Gate. The latter is named after the treacherous, narrow stretch of tidal water that runs beneath it.

Notable Store-ias

Pick up souvenirs of your visit at Lockwood, which specializes in cute home items, Queens-themed tees and caps and hand-crafted goods. Or drop by Inside Astoria, where you can find Astoria-branded merch, gifts for kids, photos and posters.

Dinner Without Menus

Elias Corner offers one of the more memorable dining experiences you can have in the borough. There are no menus here: choose fresh seafood from the glass case and the staff will grill it for you. Elias also has hearty sides like fried potatoes and grilled vegetables, along with some creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. For dessert, there’s fried dough with honey.

Another dessert option is Chip NYC, whose clientele often line up down the block for its large warm cookies. While chocolate chip is the main attraction, the selection changes depending on what’s just come out of the oven; check out the “funfetti” or chocolate peanut butter flavors, if they’re available.

Beers, Comedy and Cocktails

Spend your evening under the trees at the expansive, outdoor Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, a traditional Czech beer palace known for its inexpensive drafts and communal picnic tables. The beer garden hosts events like a Friday night silent disco where you can dance music from three different DJs, listening via wireless headphones. If you’re looking for live performances, see what’s happening at nearby Q.E.D., Astoria’s intimate space for stand-up comedy and other shows.

Finally, if you want a fancy Astoria nightcap, consider The Last Word, a craft cocktail lounge on Ditmars Boulevard with vested bartenders who serve speakeasy-style drinks. This upscale but low-key lounge, with cozy banquettes and candlelit lighting, is the perfect spot to end your day and night in the neighborhood.

FASHION FO(UR)WARD

The Wishlist Presents The Festive Edition 

“The Wishlist Exhibition” was held recently  at the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi.Sadhana Mehta, founder of The Wishlist , has thoughtfully curated  ‘THE FESTIVE WISHLIST’ , bringing together an eclectic mix of Indian artisans and designers across the genres of art, craft, fashion and home.

 The Wishlist at its core has always believed in celebrating the cultural heritage and diversity of our country. Through it’s collaborations and exhibitions- working with homegrown brands and local artisans, the wishlist promotes handcrafted and handmade products. It has also served as a platform for bringing brands, communities and craftsmen together. The Collective upholds ‘Made in India and aims to cater to the conscious consumer today. This common space of interaction and engagement between the artisans and buyers highlights the importance of conscious buying, slow-fashion and moving towards a sustainable lifestyle.

List of participating brands/artisans in The Festive Wishlist were as follows:

  1. Aavaran (Udaipur)
  2.  Aseesa (Mumbai)
  3.  Anju & Harleen
  4. CVH Studio by Claudia
  5. Diti
  6. Doft
  7. Ekam Jewels
  8. Fuchsia Homes
  9. Hastkargha
  10. Itr by Khyati 
  11. Kunwarani Ritu Sinhji
  12. Meekhalio (Jaipur)
  13.  Marm
  14.  Mukesh
  15.  NIMAI
  16. Pita Nila
  17. Ritu Kedia (Jaipur)
  18. Ramona Singh
  19. Sanskar By Sonam Dubal
  20. The Design Station
  21. The Purple Sack
  22. White Champa

LAUNCH OF BAR&OUTDOOR TABLE COLLECTION

The latest collection by World Bazaar to brighten up your poolside space with the range of natural expressions seatings.

The tall Dessau bar table is a perfect choice for an outdoor bar setting. Made of polished concrete, this table requires less cleaning effort and has high durability.

There are indoor and outdoor dining tables too from the Kaba range. These heavy-duty tables have reclaimed teak base and polished concrete top. The glossy finish on the top gives them a superior look and the wooden base gives them lasting power.

For your outdoor needs, Saveri has a minimal and functional white Pablo dining table. This round table can accommodate four people and add to your pool’s beauty. Dine, sip cocktails or simply enjoy the mesmerizing view.

 One cannot miss bar chairs when talking about outdoor furniture. Solo bar chairare made of teak wood and steel footrest. This adds a contemporary touch to the otherwise rustic wooden look. The seats aren’t too high or too low, thus they provide needed comfort.

 The Sam cubes, as the name suggests are cube-shaped seaters. Made of part white concrete and part teak, these seaters look aesthetically pleasing and high on usability as well.

COURTESY-World Bazaar

Get Sara Ali Khan’s look this festive season l

Golden dream by TBZ- THE ORIGINAL

The season of festive fervour is finally knocking on the door and it’s time to go big on jewellery shopping to add more pomp and gaiety of the festivals. TBZ – The Original, a luxury jewellery brand with a rich legacy of over 150 years, presents a one-of-a-kind ‘Tatva collection’ that oozes resplendence and opulence. Now amp up your festive look like Sara Ali Khan with this stunning range and let the holy festivals become a golden affair. This stellar collection is truly a dream come true for women of today’s age with varied sensibilities. With a picture-perfect blend of old-world aesthetics, modern artistry and Indian heritage, this stellar collection is bound to cast a magical spell on your ensemble for every celebration.

Double up the glamour and vigour at every festive gathering by donning the classic gold earrings by TBZ – The Original that can be paired with nearly any attire. The splendid collection comprises of spectacular earrings, jhumkas, necklaces and bangles with traditional motifs of Lord Ganesha. Alluring and well-thought-out placement of thread work and geometry shapes will accentuate and make a striking ensemble for traditional sensibilities.

Lakmé takes on the #FaceAppChallenge with a unique twist

With quirky social media posts and influencer engagement, the iconic beauty brand steered the conversation towards anti-aging

 Last week, a new trend took over the internet by storm. The FaceApp – an app that transforms a face to make it smile, look younger, look older, or even change gender caught the attention of people across the globe, with many Indian celebrities, including several movie stars and lifestyle bloggers taking up the #FaceAppChallenge. While the app was busy making everyone look at their future selves, Lakmé saw this as the perfect opportunity to trend jack the conversation and steered the conversation around anti-aging.

With its Lakmé Absolute Youth Infinity Skin Range – a popular product known specifically for its age-defying properties, the brand was quick on the move and engaged with its consumers by driving the social media traffic in its favour using the hashtag #FaceAppChallenged. All of this was done with some quirky posts on defying age, with an idea, “Who said getting old is inevitable as Lakmé has you covered”.

The #FaceAppChallenged was a hit with the social media influencers who found the content hilarious enough to make it viral among their followers. To drive the conversation further, Lakmé shipped a box full of Youth Infinity products with a personalized note reminding them of how the challenge of growing old is funny virtually, but not in real life. But there’s nothing to worry as Lakmé has got your back!

While influencers got their share of goodies, the brand ensured that the larger consumer base also merits from this campaign. Lakmé used this opportunity to turn the hashtag into a promo code and drive eCommerce sales of its Youth Infinity Range on their website by rewarding the audience with discounts.

Lakmé’s quick move and witty take on the trending topic struck a chord with influencers and consumers. 

Credits:

Concept and Creative: Edelman India