DIY Natural Indian Remedies: My Daily Skincare Routine

In today's fast-paced world, skincare has become an essential part of our self-care rituals, providing a moment of tranquility and personal attention. Many of us seek products that not only enhance our appearance but also connect us to something deeper and more natural. As someone deeply rooted in Indian culture, I have found that the ancient wisdom of Indian skincare offers profound benefits. Utilizing ingredients that are pure, natural, and time-tested, my daily skincare routine has evolved into a blend of simplicity and efficacy. Through this journey, I have embraced DIY natural remedies that have revitalized my skin and created a holistic approach to beauty and wellness.

My journey into natural skincare is deeply intertwined with the wisdom imparted by my mother. Growing up, I watched her diligently prepare various concoctions using ingredients from our kitchen, each with its unique purpose and benefits. Her approach to skincare was always rooted in simplicity and purity, reflecting a deep respect for nature and tradition. She believed in the power of natural remedies, not just for their effectiveness but for their holistic approach to beauty and wellness. My mother instilled in me the importance of nurturing my skin with love and care, using the treasures from our Indian heritage. This foundation has profoundly shaped my skincare routine, infusing it with practices that are both nurturing and effective. Here’s a glimpse into my daily regimen:

Morning Ritual

1. Turmeric and Honey Cleanser Every morning, I start with a gentle cleanse using a mix of turmeric and honey. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while honey is a natural humectant that keeps my skin moisturized. This combination helps to cleanse my skin, reduce any inflammation, and add a natural glow.

• Recipe: Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a teaspoon of raw honey. Apply to damp skin, massage gently for a minute, and rinse off with lukewarm water.

Friendly Tip: Starting your day with this cleanser sets a positive tone for your skincare routine. Remember, consistency is key. If you stick with it, you’ll notice a brighter, more even complexion over time.

2. Rose Water Toner After cleansing, I spritz my face with rose water. Rose water balances the skin's pH levels, tightens pores, and leaves a refreshing feel.

• Application: Pour rose water into a spray bottle for easy application. Mist your face lightly and let it air dry.

Friendly Tip: Keep your rose water in the fridge for an extra refreshing burst in the morning. It’s a fantastic way to wake up your skin and senses!

3. Aloe Vera Moisturizer To lock in moisture, I apply fresh aloe vera gel. Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it perfect for maintaining soft and supple skin.

• Application: Extract fresh gel from an aloe vera leaf and apply it directly to your face. Let it absorb for a few minutes before applying any makeup or sunscreen.

Friendly Tip: Aloe vera is great for all skin types, but if you have particularly sensitive skin, it can be a game-changer. It’s gentle yet effective at calming redness and irritation.

Evening Ritual

1. Besan (Gram Flour) and Yogurt Mask In the evening, I indulge in a nourishing face mask made from besan (gram flour) and yogurt. Besan gently exfoliates the skin, while yogurt provides probiotics and lactic acid to brighten and soften.

• Recipe: Mix 2 tablespoons of besan with 2 tablespoons of yogurt to form a smooth paste. Apply evenly to your face, leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Friendly Tip: Using this mask once or twice a week can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s texture and tone. It’s also a wonderful way to unwind after a long day.

2. Neem Oil Spot Treatment For any blemishes or spots, I use neem oil, known for its antibacterial properties. It helps to clear up acne and prevent new breakouts.

• Application: Dab a small amount of neem oil onto the affected areas before bedtime. Leave it on overnight for the best results.

Friendly Tip: Neem oil has a strong scent, so using it as a spot treatment is ideal. A little goes a long way, and you’ll wake up to calmer, clearer skin.

3. Coconut Oil Hydration Finally, I apply a light layer of coconut oil to deeply hydrate and repair my skin overnight. Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, making it an excellent overnight moisturizer.

• Application: Warm a small amount of coconut oil in your hands and gently massage it into your skin. Let it absorb as you sleep.

Friendly Tip: Coconut oil can be heavy for some skin types, so if you’re prone to breakouts, use it sparingly or try it on areas that need extra hydration like your neck and décolletage.

Weekly Indulgence

1. Multani Mitti (Fuller's Earth) Mask Once a week, I treat my skin to a Multani Mitti mask. This natural clay mask deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and rejuvenates the skin.

• Recipe: Mix 2 tablespoons of Multani Mitti with rose water to create a paste. Apply to your face and leave it on until it dries. Rinse off with cool water.

Friendly Tip: Multani Mitti can be drying, so follow up with a good moisturizer. It’s perfect for oily and acne-prone skin, providing a thorough cleanse.

2. Sandalwood and Saffron Pack For an extra glow, I use a sandalwood and saffron face pack. Sandalwood has cooling properties, and saffron brightens the complexion.

• Recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder with a few strands of saffron and enough milk to form a paste. Apply to your face, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse off with lukewarm water.

Friendly Tip: This mask is a luxurious treat for your skin. Use it before special occasions for that extra radiance and glow.

By incorporating these natural remedies into my daily skincare routine, I've discovered a harmonious way to nourish and care for my skin. These age-old Indian practices not only enhance my skin’s health but also connect me to a rich tradition of beauty and wellness. Each step in my regimen is a tribute to the wisdom passed down by my mother, blending simplicity with profound efficacy.

I hope you find inspiration in my daily routine recommendations, which are deeply personal and rooted in my mother's own skincare practices. Feel free to try these remedies and see how they transform your skin. And if you have personal skincare tips and remedies that have worked wonders for you, I’d love to hear about them. Sharing our experiences can help us all discover new ways to achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Remember to explore more stories and tips, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Embrace the journey to natural glow and well-being!

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

 Harmonizing Life: My Journey as a Blogger, Teacher, and Medical Student

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The Dance of Life: Teaching Kathak

I used to be a dedicated dancer, immersing myself in the world of Kathak with every performance. After completing my master's in Kathak, I gradually stepped away from the stage, choosing to reserve those precious moments for only a few significant occasions. My performances became rare gems, cherished and shared only during special events.

Amidst my creative pursuits, I am also a dedicated medical student. Studying medicine is both challenging and rewarding, demanding both hard work and focus. I have always excelled in science, often ranking at the top of my classes, which reflects my passion for understanding the human body.

My academic achievements, including awards and accolades, are sources of pride and motivation. They push me to strive for excellence in this field. The discipline and focus required for medical school also benefit my blogging and teaching, creating a balance of structured discipline and creative freedom.

Balancing the demands of medical school with my creative passions has taught me valuable lessons in time management and perseverance. Each day in the classroom and lab deepens my understanding and strengthens my commitment to making a meaningful contribution to the world of medicine.

Energizing Mornings: Exercise and Yoga for Better Concentration

Each day begins with the soothing yet invigorating practice of morning exercise and yoga. As dawn breaks, I step onto my yoga mat, welcoming the tranquility of the early hours. Through a series of stretches and poses, I align my body and mind, fostering a sense of inner peace that permeates my entire day. This ritual not only enhances my physical well-being but also sharpens my concentration, allowing me to tackle my diverse responsibilities with clarity and calm. The rhythmic flow of yoga, combined with the energizing breathwork, creates a solid foundation for the challenges and joys that lie ahead.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Hey there, fellow bookworms and story enthusiasts!

Are you prepared to embark on an immersive journey into the enchanting world of literature, webcomics, and fiction? Whether your heart longs for the heroic exploits of valiant protagonists, the cunning machinations of complex villainesses, the resilience of strong female leads, the humor of comedic protagonists, the romance of heart-fluttering love stories, or the emotional depth of bittersweet narratives, you have stumbled upon a community that shares your fervor! Together, we revel in the captivating and deeply personal realms that offer boundless imagination and adventure.

Let's delve into the enchantment of reading. It transcends being a mere pastime; it serves as an enchanting escape into alternate realities, providing a sanctuary from the frenetic pace of everyday life. Each book, webtoon, or novel serves as a portal to uncharted adventures, profound emotional odysseys, and indelible experiences. So, grab your preferred beverage, settle into your coziest spot, and let’s uncover the reasons why reading is such a delightful escape!

We all yearn for a private sanctuary away from the rigors of daily schedules, the pressures of work, and the relentless pursuit of our ambitions. The universe of fiction, webtoons, and novels offers a resplendent escape into the depths of our imagination, inviting us to partake in parallel worlds and diverse lives. It provides a refuge where we can intertwine our own interpretations and refine our creative storytelling prowess.

Reading isn't just a hobby; it's a profound means to sharpen concentration and attain relaxation at the close of each day. Whether ensconced in a favorite nook or stealing moments during a brief respite, losing oneself in a narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns is an exquisitely rewarding experience. Not only does it foster relaxation, but it also infuses a sense of fulfillment into our daily routines. This habit seamlessly integrates into any part of our day without disrupting established schedules.

Once upon a time, novels and storybooks reigned as the primary conduits of storytelling. Nevertheless, with the emergence of platforms such as webcomics and webtoons, the realm of reading has expanded into novel and thrilling territories. These platforms are flourishing, drawing in a wider audience to the bewitching world of fictional tales. The enthralling art and illustrations in webtoons and webcomics elevate the storytelling experience to unprecedented heights.

Novels have withstood the test of time, with distinguished authors and timeless folktales being passed down through generations. Thanks to contemporary apps and websites, these age-old narratives and cultural fables have been rejuvenated, finding newfound popularity and breathing new life into our reading experiences with their distinct perspectives and ageless wisdom.

Now that we've unearthed some fascinating facets of our daily reading sources, prepare to immerse yourself in a diverse array of webcomics, novels, and stories tailored to every inclination and mood. Whether your inclinations lean toward villainous escapades, heartwarming familial dynamics, empowering female protagonists, or swoon-worthy romantic tales, there exists a niche for everyone. So, grab your favorite beverage, nestle into your preferred reading nook, and allow yourself to be transported into the captivating world of reading and imagination!

May your daily reading excursions elevate your imagination to new heights and infuse your life with the enchantment of literature in ways you never deemed possible.

Keep dreaming,

Asaka 

My very first gardening begins in a very unique way... 

“Every moment is a fresh beginning.”

― T.S. Eliot

As many of you may recall from my previous blog, I have a deep passion for photography, a love that blossomed in my very own beautiful garden. Whether your garden is small or vast, it can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for your creativity. For me, it had a profound impact, giving rise to new, unexpectedly enjoyable activities.

When I think about gardening, I don't picture a professional gardener with a sprawling estate. Instead, I envision my grandpa explaining the various types of plants and their features in our countryside home. He lived simply, and for me, accustomed to the bustling city lifestyle, those experiences in his garden were a breath of fresh air. Drawing pictures of the sceneries around me was always easier when I was in that scenic haven. Our garden, tended by a family-like gardener, became the perfect backdrop for my artistic endeavors. Grandpa and I shared our thoughts and ideas, learning from each other every day in that lush, green sanctuary.

Another person who deepened my curiosity about plants and birds was my father. His passion for trees and greenery was infectious. He would share stories from his childhood and his vast knowledge about the flora and fauna around us. This love for plants led us to create a mini garden on our terrace, maintained by both my parents. The beauty of a garden lies not only in its vibrant blooms and lush greenery but also in the memories and emotions it evokes. For me, a garden is a tapestry of cherished memories and personal growth.
Gardening's allure is multifaceted. From the captivating beauty of the garden itself to the thrill of discovering new flowers and experimenting with different cultivation methods, each new piece of knowledge adds to the tapestry of fascination. The garden, once merely a reminder of the past, has become an immersive haven of discovery and growth.

Moreover, a garden is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Initially, the sight of various creatures might evoke trepidation, but as you grow accustomed to their presence, a new world unfolds. Every creature, no matter how small, plays a vital role in this intricate web of life. Initial fears give way to an understanding and appreciation of the harmonious coexistence within this microcosm.

My journey from reminiscing about my mother's love for gardening to developing my own profound affinity for it has been transformative. It has allowed me to nurture and cultivate the natural world, enriching my life in ways I could not have imagined. The garden, with its blooms, creatures, and boundless mysteries, has become a source of endless wonder and joy, captivating me with its beauty and complexity.

You too can discover your passions and hobbies. Who knows, you might find yourself drawn to a new activity that brings joy and learning into your daily life. So, why not take a moment to explore and perhaps cultivate your own garden of discoveries?

🍀🌷🍀

Embrace the Art of Self-Exploration: Unlock Your Inner Artist

Exploration is the heart of existence. No matter the angle you view life from, there's always an avenue waiting to be discovered. This journey isn't confined to the physical world—self-exploration is equally vital. It’s about rediscovering your inner feelings and the vast rooms within your soul. This path isn’t always easy, as it often involves confronting your own shortcomings. But it also shines a light on your strengths, revealing your true self in all its glory.

In our relentless pursuit of success, we often lose sight of our passions and desires. The pressures we impose on ourselves to achieve can obscure the artistic spirit within us. But what about our own creative selves?

An artist is anyone who revels in creativity, exploring different mediums and expressing themselves through various canvases. Artists can transport you to different realms through their art, whether it’s painting, poetry, literature, music, or dance. Every person possesses a unique artistic character. Yet, we humans are a contradictory bunch. We seek happiness in simple pleasures but are seldom satisfied with our achievements. Our expressions often become a means to an end, rather than a true reflection of our inner thoughts and desires.

Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” This rings true because, as we transition into adulthood, we tend to neglect the inner child who once guided us towards our passions. We conform to social norms and let the anxiety of fitting in shackle us, stifling our creative spirits.

To reconnect with your artistic, childlike self, you need to free yourself from mental burdens and take a break. Allow yourself the freedom to unleash that hidden version of you—the one that once brought you joy. Finding your inner self can lead to unexpected discoveries and opportunities, guiding you towards a passion you may have forgotten.

Investing time in yourself, nurturing your artistic side, and following your passions come with no disadvantages. In fact, they can help you uncover strengths you never knew you had, while also allowing you to address and improve upon your weaknesses.

Jim Henson wisely observed, “The most sophisticated people I’ve ever known had one thing in common: they were all in touch with their inner children.” Embrace your inner artist and let it guide you towards a fulfilling and passionate life.

Discover the Joy of Art and Craft: A Journey to Self-Care

Photo by Jadson Thomas

Hey there, fellow creators!

Today, we're diving into the wonderful world where self-care meets art and craft. It's time to break out those brushes, yarn, clay, or whatever medium sparks your creativity because we're about to embark on a journey of relaxation, expression, and self-discovery.

In a world that's constantly on the move, taking time for ourselves often takes a backseat. However, it's crucial to remember that self-care isn't just about pampering your physical body—it's about nourishing your mind and soul too. And what better way to do that than through the transformative power of art and craft?

• Why Art and Craft?

Art and craft offer a unique form of self-expression that goes beyond words. Whether you're painting a canvas, knitting a scarf, or molding clay, each stroke, stitch, or shape is a reflection of your inner thoughts and emotions. Engaging in creative activities allows you to tap into your subconscious, explore your feelings, and gain insights into yourself that you may not have even realized were there.

• The Therapeutic Benefits

It's no secret that art therapy has been used for decades as a way to promote mental health and well-being. Crafting provides a safe space for you to release stress, reduce anxiety, and alleviate symptoms of depression. The rhythmic motion of knitting or the mindful focus required for intricate details in painting can help calm the mind and bring about a sense of peace and clarity.

Moreover, engaging in creative pursuits has been shown to increase dopamine levels in the brain, leading to feelings of happiness and fulfillment. So, not only does crafting help you unwind, but it also boosts your mood and overall sense of well-being.

• Nurturing Your Creativity

Creativity is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly to thrive. By making time for art and craft in your life, you're not only indulging in self-care but also nurturing your creative spirit. Experimenting with different techniques, materials, and styles allows you to expand your artistic horizons and discover new passions along the way.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to creativity. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, the beauty of crafting lies in the process itself. So, don't be afraid to make mistakes, embrace imperfections, and let your imagination run wild.

• Embrace Your Inner Artist

The intersection of art, craft, and self-care offers a powerful means of nourishing your mind, body, and soul. So, whether you're painting, sculpting, knitting, or crafting in any other way, remember to embrace your creativity and prioritize your well-being. After all, in the words of Pablo Picasso, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." So, let's reclaim our inner artists and make self-care a masterpiece!

Happy crafting! 🎨✂️🖌️

 The Starting Point of the Journey....

Photo by SenuScape

Nature, in the common sense, refers to essences unchanged by man, space, the air, the river, the leaf. Art is applied to the mixture of his will with the same things, as in a house, a canal, a statue, a picture. Same goes with the life we lead, sometimes you need to mix up your daily schedule to explore a new untouched journey to know the new unknown self even you think you are used to it.

Sometimes when we start something we work out on the full base plan, but most of the best ideas originally comes out when you let your mind go wild and creative, this as well goes with the journey and exploration. You just need to plan the basic thing and let yourself indulge in that journey, who knows you may end up enjoying that without even expecting it!

Occasionally, life itself feels like an adventure, much like traveling from road to road. The memories we gather, observations we make, and lessons we learn along the way are invaluable. Every journey, with its set destination, unfolds gradually, answering our curiosities and teaching us more than we ever expected.

Just as in travel, the unexpected twists and turns of life offer the most memorable experiences. Embrace these moments, as they hold the key to personal growth and understanding. Enjoy the journey and let each step bring new insights and joy.

Different color and emotions of life...

Travel is all about experiences. And one of the experiences that really enrich your travels is meeting new people – whether it’s a quick exchange of pleasantries or a slow conversation over a meal, shaking hands with a new culture makes travel beautiful and meaningful.

The universe also works in similar but still in some mysterious ways, it’s complex but there is perfect harmony in it. There are no coincidences in our lives, everything that happens to us is part of a bigger context, everything happens for a reason.

In your life also, you will meet many people, and every single person will have a purpose. Some people are meant to stay in your life, others are going to leave, but everyone will play a part in your existence. But the journey keeps on going just like the train ride where the landscape changes, the people change, but the train keeps moving.

Life experiences change us as people and these experiences can affect our lives both positively and negatively, but still life is all about experience. It helps us recognize who we are and what we want to do. Some experience helps us to grab more about our inner self. Thus, sometimes the journey with us, becomes a process in which you examine yourself in attempt to discover and learn more about yourself and the various colors and emotions of life, meeting different, people collecting various memories which will stay as a lifetime important recollection.

Memory is an intrinsic part of our life experience, as some memories stick better than others, as well as accepting their fluidity, helps us reduce conflict and better appreciate just how much our memories impact our lives. But most importantly by having memories, we will know what is right and what is wrong.

For me, at every point memory helps me to remember also sometimes to discover the new me which was still unknown to me. Every time that I close my eyes and I let my mind be free, my head starts to be full of different images, people place, events; experiences that have left a mark in my life.

Some memories engraved forever...

What's the most intriguing part of journey is not only the experience or self-discovery but also one another most important part which defines these both other mentioned characteristics, are the self-graves yet some precious memories earned during those times.

Still at the end of every journey, we get a new revelation or results which makes us of who we are today. They are a reminder of the simple joys in life and make me grateful for the people and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. Even at this point too, I'm still waiting for another new journey of me and myself to unfold, with its new destination and a brand-new adventure, which is yet to be discovered..........

"If you are brave enough to say goodbye life will reward you with a new hello".

– Paulo Coelho

Photo by Jill Wellington

I spent most of my childhood in the city, but some of my great moments comes back to me from the memories from my childhood spent with my grandparents. Those memories still are an inseparable part of my life now. Which I can't go back to but can only reminiscence happily.

“Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.”
– Alex Haley

I grew up in a not so small city, where most of my childhood life was spent, but some of my memorable moments are from the village where I used to visit every year, that is my grandparent's house. I was always excited whenever I was going to visit my grandparents as they were my source of inspiration for all of my unique creativity and thinking skill, in those boring times of city life where I always use to feel isolated. Every time I visited them, there was always some sort of joy and excitement as each time there was something that I used to learn and what I used to love is how they made me learn through some unique approach or methods. At the end I use to grasp all those lessens somehow which still amazes me even today. Eventually All those memories of childhood happiness are still there but the people who use to teach them and the vagueness of those limitless query makes me wistfully lonely sometimes.

Moving on to all those sad parts, let me give a brief intro about myself before I start my stories, about my pre-teen days exploration. I grew up in a very open minded yet very traditional household. I was always made well connected with my cultural, literature and traditional aspects. This never meant that always used to grew bored of all those learning stuffs but in fact I was interested in learning those, you can assume I was bit on a nerdy side but in reality, I felt that those are the things that made me deliver myself to others in better way also I can always stay connect to my roots. I was very shy and introverted and was very hesitant to talk to others. My friends always found it hard to approach me as I use to create a barrier to those I didn't talk. Thus, I was always connected to my grandparents during my childhood as they were my best friend for those lonesome days.

I'm a single child so having no sibling or friend around that time made me bit hesitant to share my feelings, to those days my all-time hideout was my grandparents, I still look for those times when my grandpa and me used to sit beside the lake and chat about all of my secrets and gossips of the school time and I always used to get happy to share even the silliest topics , without any hesitation as they were my dedicated secret holder. I learned many life lessons from my grandpa and grandma and those lessons were always helpful during my hard times. I enjoyed the times in the village as I used to explore those which I was never able to in the cities. The lively trees, greenery of the paddy fields and meadows, the freedom which I used to feel in those winds were sufficient for me to fight all of my worries during those day.

The journey to those days was itself self-healing. The beautiful yet dreamy views from the window of the trains and the endless exploration felt like a discovery and adventure to the familiar but still an unspecified destination. I really miss those childhood memories when I was excited even before a month or weeks before the journey. Nowadays the journey seems like an endless struggle with an unrewarding result, as the people who used to make those struggle fruitful are not there, neither is the happiness which came unknowingly to the thought of meeting them.

Photo by Ana Madeleine Uribe

The visit always had something surprising to explore even the small thing like the trees, flowers or ant sort of insect, which would excite me with something seen yet still Unkown facts. The sceneries change its scenarios at every change of season. The festivals had their own color and cultures. The life there was going on with its own steady path without any rush from the outside world, it seems like the beauty is left untouched here and will stay the same as ever, different from those city life where even the time seems to flow in an unknow dash of endless run.

The hospitality of the people there was always the one which touched my heart, even the stranger you met today is ready to reach out for any help you need anytime. Not to mention their personality was very friendly and helpful, as people always reach you out if you are in some sort of trouble. Those days are engraved in my memories even slightest of the moments, remembering those sometimes helps me to deal with any of my hard time. That's why my visit to my grandparents always have a special place in my heart. I wish I could have said to them earlier that what I want is to have them forever with them to share every memory and secret with them and that I still and always will love them, but sometimes somethings are always left unsaid, me telling them this will always a forever regret of mine.

Photo by Dominika Roseclay

I made a lot of memories with them, a lot of mistakes that I wish I could apologize for, and I know what their answers would be with comforting hug and a smile in their faces. A lot of secrets I have which I want to share with them, many new experiences which once was told by them but still the eagerness to tell the whole story and their patience to hear the whole story with lot more anticipation than anyone. I miss them a lot but what my grandparents always made me learn was to move on, so even if I have a story to tell I let them know, you may be asking how?... Well, they're still at my heart and soul, so I get that feeling that they can also hear me and are still waiting to hear more with a pleasing smile that I wish I could see more.... 

“If the people we love are stolen from us, the way to have them is to never stop loving them.” — James O'Barr, artist