Recipe: Spinach-Mint Smoothie

So I have been experimenting with Smoothies for breakfast. The first few times, I choose poorly, and I got gassy. Since I follow the "blood type" diet, I decided to use only stuff from the list. Result- no gas. However my body burns through calories now since I run and do weights, it's often not enough, and I need small snacks throughout the day. Looking for yummy snacks.

Till then here's the recipe for my Spinach-Mint smoothie:

1- Apple
1- Banana
1- long Carrot (not those babies carrots)
5- table spoons boiled/ baked black beans
3- stems of mint leaves
15 - 20 leaves of baby spinach
1 table spoon raw/ local honey
1 table spoon grade B maple syrup
2 cups almond milk

Blend!

Enjoy.

(if you add ice, take the almond milk down to 1 cup).

Paradise on Earth - Yosemite National Park

There are so many fabulous far away places to see...

This one brought me to my knees.

The journey was a rough one. I set out from Ohio on the 7:30 flight via Chicago O Hare, to SFO International Airport. It landed at 12:30 am midnight. My little sis, drove up in her car, having a hard time finding the right terminal and gate etc., it was cute to listen to her navigate and finally find me. I don't remember if we hugged, but I do remember her asking me immediately afterward, "will you please drive back?" I was tired, and sick, and sick, and tired, not to forget hungry!
We found a late night sushi place in Oakland, cause such places exist in cities that are not Cleveland.
We went to Kansai Sushi in oakland (off of 44th and Telegraph Ave.), and ordered a bunch of rolls, including a delicious Ryan roll (cause it was named after my boyfriend, although he had nothing to do with its creation). It hit the spot. After a satisfying short meal, we headed to her little house in the Berkeley hills.

We got home, slept, and woke up bright and early. We went for a walk/ run through a little rose garden, a park, a very steep up hill run, and when we got home we made breakfast. We left for Yoga at the Yoga to the People studio, lunch at Udipi Palace in Berkeley and finally quick stop for groceries at Trader Joes. We were finally done by 3 pm and we set off to Yosemite - Curry Village. The GPS told us it was 3 hours and 40 some minutes away. There was traffic, the weather was wonderful and we did need to stop for gas.

As we got closer to Yosemite we got onto Rt 120, there was a very scary portion of the road after passing "Moccasin Point", (near a place called Groveland), where the road was very windy with hairpin curves and turns, and it was 20 miles/ hour speed limit, and there was no barrier to the steep drop. It was daylight still and we could see this steep drop. I was flipping out, and my sis kept reminding me her GPS was saying 30 miles for the last 30 minutes as we slowly took the curves carefully. Shortly after that nightmare of a windy road, we entered Yosemite National park, but then it became dark. The road was pretty smooth, other than signs for watch out for large herds of cattle- Ok! It was still 47 miles so it took about an hour, and we passed all the great rocks - El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks etc. However we had no idea, because it was pitch black.

Curry Village was cute set in the heart of the Yosemite Valley Village. It has a skate rink, and there are shuttle buses running in the day, all the way up to 10 pm. There are a ton of activities one can pursue there from ice skating, skiing, to bicycling, rock climbing, horse riding and just hiking. I think in the summer there are food and wine events and there are also other fancy lodges there. Anyway we checked in, found our tent, settled in and headed to meet some friends from Ohio for dinner at the fancier part of the Valley Village. After which we were so tired and cold, and cold and tired, we passed out (before which I walked to and from a bathroom three times since I couldn't figure out how to get in. Ah see you would think it would be easy, but the bathrooms have a code!). There is a quiet time after 10 pm however we had noisy neighbors so I had a hard time sleeping, besides having to wake up to go to the bathroom, and having to wake up to shivering, since the bottom of the mattress was not insulated, and also because the warm air rises, so I was warm from above with three woolen blankets, but freezing. It was only a little below 30*F that night (mid-February).

My sis woke up and said- "Hey let's get going", or something to that effect. We got out tooth brushes, some towels, and got ready to go to the bathroom. We stepped out of the tent, and it was a jaw dropping, falling to your knees kind of sight. The tents were scattered in a grove of red woods, which were relatively young. Looming up and around the valley around us, above these young trees were cliffs, chunks of massive rock, greeting us by reflecting the rising sun. I couldn't stop looking, and I had stopped breathing. There's something about that sight. It's gigantic rocks split in half, so odd, yet natural. So normal yet so fantastical... I don't know what it was about that place but it is insane as in, it's unimaginably magical in an inexplicable way.

Finally my sister reminded me we needed to get closer to those things (the rocks), but we had to wash, eat breakfast, check out and then head to the trail. So we did. We had breakfast at the Curry Village Coffee shop very quickly and headed on to "Mirror Lake Trail Head". This is an easy hike, and it leads to this crystal clear lake which gets its water from the depleting glacier, and is thus a mirror to the amazing cliffs around it which include Half Dome. The hike was easy, but since it was in the shade of the cliffs, and in the valley, it was still frigid, and the cold was biting. We kept moving to stay warm. There were other hikers from all over the world; it was amazing to see so many people there in February, I can't imagine what Summer is like. We got to see the amazing sights near mirror lane, we saw the glacier and snow capped peaks beyond the lake. We hiked the loop, got lost, and had to turn around. So what was supposed to be a 2 mile hike max, became a 5 mile hike. Anyway we ended up right by Curry Village.

We went to some of the scenic stopping areas and took pictures. We were so awestruck we were just taking it all in. I knew this is why we needed a short trip so that we could absorb the shock of the beauty, and let the overwhelming immensity of Nature sink in, so that next time we could hike and see more, without being stunned. I don't know if others experience this, but I sure as heck do and did. This time we did see El Cap, Cathedral rock, and other amazing rocks. The drive back was still scary but the weather was perfect. We said good bye, and vowed to return again soon. I kind of want to live there.

I highly recommend adding Yosemite to your places to visit, and see.

Vegan Chickpea Curry

Recently I've developed a plethora of food allergies/ intolerances. The doc doesn't know... anyway, this has driven me to be vegan, and gluten free, caffeine free and alcohol free (although I could have wine). I occasionally give into dairy and bread, but I pay for it sorely within hours. So really I never thought I would be on the vegan-gluten free band wagon, but here I am.

My choice to be a vegetarian was mien of course, but all this other stuff, no. I miss bread, and I miss yogurt.

My eating habits have changed, and it's been tough going out to eat. Everything, especially major chain restaurants only has meat, with cheese, and bread. After so many meals out does one want to order a bed of lettuce again with a few tomatoes.

Cooking has been awesome. It's interesting, and exercises the mind and heart. Also since I've been working out A LOT, I crave protein, however I need my balanced meals. In the past I'd go to chipotle and order carnitas with rice and what not. Now I have the joy of enjoying the veggie bowl (no fajita veggies- green pepper allergy). So a quick meal is usually brown rice, both beans, mild sauce, lettuce and guacamole. I was making this amazing garbanzo bean salad, but that got tedious and so I began eating plain chickpeas out of a can. 

However, eating out in general can get expensive, salads get old, and eating chickpeas out of a can, can get bland. Plus the art of cooking is so romantic in a way. So I came up with a recipe... or is it the inert Indian cooking genes in me?

Chickpea Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can garbanzo beans (un-drained)

1 yellow/ sweet onion

1 - 2  cloves garlic (to taste)

1-2 vine tomatoes (or just any frikkin tomato)

1-2 teaspoons cumin seed

1/4th teaspoon turmeric powder

0.5 inch of grates ginger OR 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder

1/4th teaspoon chili powder/ paprika/ cayenne pepper (to taste)

1-2 dried chili peppers

1-2 tablespoons oil (vegetable/ olive)

1/3 cup water

10-15 minutes. Serves 2.

Directions:

1- dice the onion, tomato and garlic, and keep separately

2- heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat/ flame

3- add onions, garlic cumin to hot oil. wait till little golden

4. add tomatoes (beware the splatter)

5- let the tomatoes get a little mushy

6- add all other spices let heat a little longer 5-6 minutes

7- add garbanzo beans with water and let cook covered for a little bit.

8- add salt to your own taste. and a pinch of sugar!

Voila!

drape over some brown rice, or with naan, roti/tortilla, and enjoy.

The Best Year Yet!

Two weeks ago it was the 1st day of the New Year, and I realized a lot of things. On social media everyone was saying Happy New Year, this will be the best year yet, but I couldn't feel that excitement or joy. Why are people so excited for the New Year? Or are they just happy to be at a party? Life flows, I never really see any clear demarcations, some events stand out more than others. From a financial stand point, sure the Newish fical year begins, but hey we still have to pay bills from last year, etc. So what are we really celebrating?

My boyfriend, Ryan, and I had a quiet New Years Eve together, and we watched Space Balls. In the middle we watched the ball drop in Times Square, New York City. It was another year beginning for sure. He played Auld Lang Syne for me on the guitar, which was lovely, as I felt the frenzy and rush to text everyone I know. Highly overrated. I felt the need to drink copious amounts of liquor, cause that just seems the thing to do on holidays.

I was trying to help me feel excited but deep in my heart I knew the truth. If I thought 2013 was tough, 2014 will be tougher still, it maybe my toughest year ever! There are decisions to make, big changes and let's not forget taking risks. So, here I am trying to feel excited like everyone else, but it was not going to happen. I have this enormous task at hand, which is my path, my life, it's no one else's, and it seems really daunting, if not overwhelming. I have so many goals set forth this year- improving my health, losing weight, running more, climbing more, yoga-ing more, writing more, maybe changing my job, maybe starting a business, maybe switching careers...

This year I turn 31; So far I've gathered I'm not a normal human being. Yep, I'm 31 and haven't "settled down", at all, not even in life. Let's say normal is the net in a tennis court, I'm a little past the service court boxes, the weird and outlandish are at the baseline and the crazies are like where Nadal hits his awesome shots from with those grunts, way back near back-screen where the ball boys await. (anyway in tennis, Olympics and football mode since the Australian open is upon us, and World Cup and Olympics soon to be!) Anyway, I dunno why I can't just settle down, maybe cause there's still so much to see, learn, do, experience, live, explore...

So far I think I've been dealing with what this tough year has thrown at me pretty well, I had to give up drinking, cause it was a major downer, and I need me to pick me up! I was overwhelmed, anxious about this new year, I felt bad that I could not say this will be the best year yet. All I thought to myself was this will be a tough year, and I found myself facing the Moguls skiing; hitting each bumps, gaining speed rapidly heading down hill, obstacle after obstacle looming, and me losing control. I should quit right now, I thought, but it was no solution, I knew, and as I tried to take a turn I crashed. Yep no more drinking for me, I picked up the pieces and realized if I don't flip my attitude it would be the worst year yet, if not just the toughest.

This year has been challenging and will continue to be so, and I am ready for it, although I did shed a tear or two, I know I can handle it. I will drive forward into midfield, maneuver through the defense and kick that goal! It will be a long game, so need to build my stamina, strength, and willpower, not to forget motivation and determination, and I know I will see myself through. And tough does not necessarily mean worst, flip that negativity to positivity. Flip that attitude, kinda like a flip in Aerial skiing, always landing on your feet! Bring it!

I hope everyone else has a lovely year! And I know I will too, now, I know I will.


Breathe!

The Thing About Resolutions...

It's 2014! Happy New Year, readers!

Resolutions? Well I have a few, but the thing about resolutions is after the first quarter it disappears! So why do we make them?

The idea of a resolution is to change our habits, to grow, better, and to make this positive change a habit and integrate it into our being. The thing is if we don't see it as a part of us from the beginning, it's never going to work. One has to be mindful, and conscious of this new aspect throughout the year, until it's an old aspect. Right?

Let's take for example losing weight. People work out for the first 3 months, until they lose 10 lbs! They are like Yay! The thing is then they leave it. The thing about weight loss is continuing with an active lifestyle. Plus eating healthy, etc., as I have mentioned in my other blogs. Kind of like weight loss, lets look at giving up a certain behavior pattern, for something better, ie. being more positive, quitting alcohol. These are tough changes, and more psychological than what a "resolution" represents these days. Instead of trying to become more positive, start by saying I am positive person, and follow through with a positive action. While breaking a bad habit, such as quitting drinking, or coffee, is weaning yourself off it, substituting, and disassociating with that thing (in this case alcohol).

So a resolution is in fact a lifestyle change often, right? Unless it's something like, this year I will connect with my high-school friends, or will go on a vacation this year. Sometimes those too include lifestyle changes, making time for new people in your life, or saving up for that vacation.

Here I am able to finally explain my resolutions:
1) to be more present, especially in the presence of loved ones. This means being more conscious of my actions and behavior over all. I do feel meditation can help me. Staying true to myself too.
2) I will, try to be less attached to my cell phone this year. I will try to curb my Nomophobia.
3) Follow through with my book plans, which means less TV, and less Xbox, more focusing on projects.
4) Lose weight. Going to the gym everyday to get either 15-20 minute work out in, or for a whopping two hours. Whatever the duration of the work out, goal is at least 10-14 miles a week.
5) Eating healthy, it starts at home! I'm going to learn to be happy and satisfied, binge-ing on carrots... actually as my personal trainer says, if you want some cake, have it, 1 small piece, just remember to do the work for it.
6) Save more money, spend less!

Those are my small - big goals! What are your "resolutions"?


Breathe!

Health and Food, and Food and Health and...

We see it all over the web, well depending on what circles you run in, for one CAN be totally ignorant and oblivious to the world even at this day and age of technology, but as I digress, the thing I speak of is: GMOs, Food, Organic Food, Vegan, Health, Obesity, Health care, exercise and fitness, diet and weightless, Gluten-free, Monsanto... These are all huge topics in the world of health and food...

I live a healthy lifestyle at times, and then every now and then I stray. Some call it binging, sometimes its depression. Whatever it is called and even when I try to be healthy, disease = Dis + Ease, finds me. Recently I find myself with Ulcerative Colitis. Ulcer and Colitis caused by dairy. Now every food seems like a demon to me. I fear to eat.

Is it just a part of this affliction? Or IS there something with the foods these days?
How many people are obese?
How many are afflicted with diabetes?
How many have gluten allergies?
How many people are lactose intolerant?
The numbers grow, so how do we not see that there is something profoundly sick with us?

We gave power to corporations because we thought they were good...

Are we now paying the price?

Let's take back our health... let's help out small organic farms so we can eat good food. Truly good food.

I'm tired of suffering. I'm convinced it isn't me its the food.

Breathe

and

Live!

The Should and The Is

My friend and I were discussing today about the difference between what we think we "should" be and what we "are" (the "is"). We found it very different from each other, we spoke about this in terms of Myers-Briggs personality test and life itself. Our personalities in term of the Myers-Briggs changes from year to year, so does our idea of what we "should" be.

Although I am ENFP (extroverted- intuitive - feeling - perception), sometimes I feel I should be more ESTJ (extroversion -  sensing- thinking - judgement). Sometimes I find myself INTJ (introversion -intuitive - thinking - judgement)... so there are many different possibilities, and our lives are dynamic we change within. Our "should"s change to, what we think we should be at that time. Eventually we sort of settle down into one, maybe on or two aspects maybe so ingrained in us that we can't change it, like me and the "intuition" aspect, also i am more feeling than thinking, always have been! We eventually have to come to terms with the "is" and be ok with it, and let go of the "should".

My friend's blog about through hiking the Appalachian Trail this year helped me understand the aspect of coming to terms with the "is" and "should". She talks about her fears of not being able to complete the journey, but eventually comes to terms with what "is" or rather what might be. Either way if she completes it its a victory, if she doesn't there's always a positive side "... if I don't make it to Maine, I'll have some great stories to tell. And maybe I'll even lose a toe, preferably the little one. I never liked it anyway. Or, I could embellish a bear story and even possibly get some hippy trail name that I can change my Facebook alias to."
If its about "should"s "maybe"s of the future, it becomes about perspective and remembering that the journey is what matters, the goal or the peak is but a prize along the way.

Another part of the the blog that tackles "should"s and "is" is that everyone has this idea that we grow up with about what life should be, at least here in US who knows what it's like in war torn Iraq, Iran, Israel or Palestine or even Pakistan. The "should" is often the formula, the "American Dream", I don't know what else it's called, but I have written about it before. We go to school, go to college, go to more college, find a boy/ girl, get married, get a good 9-5 job of $50k preferably more, buy a house, buy a car, buy a lawn mower, have a kid, buy diapers... and then grow old, spend Christmas, thanksgiving and other holidays with your grandchildren. Alot of people follow this "should" and seem happy, some do and fail, some never do. My doctor told me I "should" to get married soon and have children by 31. She said we could take it out after that (refer to my previous blog), solving my health problems. I was polite and said, I'd rather wait. How does one tell another person that their "should" is not your "is"? A tough one, isn't it? It's good to see more people not follow the "should" but follow themselves!

I know a lot of people who talk about how they would be happy just leaving everything behind, and just going to a mountain retreat, to find happiness and peace, when they realize their "is" which was them following their "should" did not work. Do they ever go? Most of them don't embark on that journey and just stay stuck or find a different way with less changes, because they are scared of straying from the "should" and finding the new "is". However it seems more people are going out on the limb and finding and accepting the "is". I sure am. I am learning to accept other people's "is" as well!


Following and accepting your "is" can be in whatever for, from just taking off on a solo journey, to taking that class in martial arts or pottery you've always wanted to, or getting away from that toxic environment, basically it is finding what makes you truly deeply happy. That is your purpose, that is your being, That is you!


Breathe!!!



"Enlightenment is essentially waking up from the should's and looking at what is" - Tanjot

I don't know where I found this, but it works for this blog! and it's cute!

The Call of the East

Firstly back by heightened interest, need and more participants is the 5 minute meditation project blog!

What amazes me, warms me, and makes me bubble up over flowing with love, is how i have come to find a mass of people who enjoy learning, living, loving the philosophies and teachings I grew up with (which I so rebelliously shunned as a teen)! I'm talking about yoga, meditation, chanting slokas, ॐ, Sanskrit (as a kid I thought - what is the use of this!), Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharatha (I watched the entire series in the 90s with my grandmom who fluctuates in and out dementia), etc. Being Indian, and growing up with the whole family, and mom sending me to Bhagavad Gita classes, Bengali classes, singing classes, made no sense then, and was a lot of learning, information (we thought the internet was full of information) overload! My mom always said, "you will thank me one day" with that all-knowing tone. I guess that day is today. I can pass on my knowledge which I acquired begrudgingly, but now cherish and nurture.

So recently I picked up (on kindle) Jaya by Devdutt Pattanaik, which is a version of the Mahabharata, to refresh my memory on the story. I forgot how complex it was, getting lost in the Maya of life; story within story within story, that you forget where the original story began. Perhaps that's how the movie 'Inception' was conceived.... dream within a dream within a dream... basically Maya. Will write more on this as I get lost deeper in the maya of this book.

Then I also found the old Srimad Bhagavad Gita by Swami Tapasyananada (Ramakrishna Mission Publishing) I learned from. I was in 6th or 7th grade when the Bhagavad Gita classes started. Every Sunday afternoon after lunch, when a kid just wants to snooze, heavy mind boggling Gita philosophy and the heavy Sanskrit, deconstruction, and just taking it all in. Our teacher was and is a historian but also a Sanskrit scholar. He is very learned, and I still ask him when I have any doubts, questions, and need help refreshing my memory. After that class, we had chanting class, so more Sanskrit, understanding slokas and deep philosophy (as a teen this wasn't fun, we just wanted to go out and play or take a nap as we were taught as a child). That was the heavy stuff, which helped me stay on track, and also helped me identify the things I needed to rebel against as a teen (because that's what teens do to be cool), but later on in life, helped me stay true to myself, beliefs and remain a good person. Something did manage to sink in despite all the rebelling during teenage years.

I'm so glad that I can read Devnagiri, Bangla, Tamil (this one I am a little slow at), and can understand it because of the combined knowledge of all four. They are so interlinked, so culturally founded, and the fact my family is so bong (slang for Bengali), this knowledge is passed down - Gayatri Mantra, the gotrams, lineage, connection to the whole shenanigans of the Sapta Rishis (yes I said that!), the mantras, the yamas and niyamas, even the eightfold path... I guess it is all taught, when I took Buddhism classes at CSU, I was excited to tell my parents about three jewels in buddhism - Buddha Dharma Sangha, and of course my dad knew all about it and recited it in Sanskrit with his Bengali pronunciation Buddho, Dhormo, Shangho! Maybe he's an exception, because he was lucky to have been sent off to Sri Ramakrishna Mission in Puruliya, and maybe that where all this knowledge was bestowed onto him, but often times parents try to teach their kids, but kids partially take it in?!?!

My point is, there is this growing desire in the west to learn all the above, and I find it amazing, and heart warming. When I came back to the USA in 2001, I was enrolled in a Christian college where I was told my birth religion was wrong, so were all other faiths. I was told that Christ was the only way to heaven. My argument was as long as you are a good human why would you be denied heaven, especially if the religion taught you how to live as a good human? I was told that was just the way, and God wanted us to find him through Christ and Christianity only. My idea of an open, accepting and appreciating America, was shattered. This is why I am happy to learn so many people accepting teachings of Hinduism, Buddhism, the Gita, Patanjali, the Upanishads, the Vedas, into their world. It restores my faith in mankind... To accept something so alien as Sanskrit into your life (it's a different script, and sounds like gibberish, hard to pronounce, thus alien), and recite the words with so much love and joy, its pretty amazing to me! Thank you all for inspiring me to appreciate the culture I come from. I see it with fresh eyes. I wish the rest of India would do the same... the beauty it came from has become twisted and dirty. If this group in Northeast Ohio can do it, everyone and anyone else can too!

Breathe!

Picture courtesy Piyali Banerjie

Picture courtesy Chris Soria

Picture courtesy Piyali Banerjie

Picture courtesy Chris Soria

Third Decade Complete

On the brink of completing my third decade here as a human being on earth, many thoughts come to mind as I come to this milestone. Some measure life through accomplishments - financial, career, or family creation. Some say age is nothing but a number. Some say life starts at thirty. Some say the biological clock of a woman in her thirties is ticking real fast! Some say ... there are a lot of sayings and interpretations... I maybe behind on the achievements side, but where I lack there... I make up in a number of other fields.

Here I sit, panicked, anxious, and counting my blessings. Seriously counting... Pree, what makes your life on earth, using all these natural resources and air, worth it? What do you contribute? What have you DONE so far? I can compare my self to others and I would fall short, and relative to others still I may have accomplished more. However IS life a competition as to who has done what? Sometimes I think Indians today seem to focus on this a lot, especially the ones I know. Also I guess all people in general want to be proud of their kin, family, children.

I found out from my mom 30 years ago on the night of the 14th at 2am did the contractions begin. Her father drove her to the hospital, and my dad arrived there shortly, however he didn't see me come out, he has a week stomach and would have fainted. They did not know if I was going to be a boy or girl, so I was a surprise! They played Indian classical music as I was born naturally. I loved reading and animals right off the bat, and my favorite Hindi movie was Nagina, where Sridevi acts as a lady who turns into a snake! I remember my sis being born, I called her "Baby" for many years, even when  we moved to India and went to school there. "Baby" was my best friend, sister, and inspiration for many a things! We created worlds together.

I think the major things that I've learnt from completing three decades is how to make good true friends, letting go, introspection, and living, loving, laughing and learning! I learned through all my different friendships and relationships how to be good at them, how to be a good friend and how to appreciate those who are good friends to me. Many a time I failed. Relationships whether family, friends or lovers, can be difficult. Friendships seem simple enough but not always so. Sometimes it can be difficult, sometimes people change and sometimes they are annoying, but always you remember who they are deep inside, and know they have loved you back. Sometimes people let you down, but don't take you personally. I have, taken it personally many times, cried over lost friendships, disloyalty... drama! This leads to the second thing I learned: Letting go. However I am have an amazing group of friends... so glad to have you all in my life!

I learnt (and am still learning) the art of letting go, and that it is OKAY to let go. it's ok to embrace the ebb and flow of the the things, people, places in your life. It's dynamic, its impermanent, exhale and let it go! especially let go of the stresses of the day, any problems that are lingering, let it go for one second. Sure enough if a friend is a friend they come back, sometimes we all need space to grow in other ways. Letting go is tough because we get so attached to things that are external that make us happy. We focus on those so much that we forget that we can find that "happy" inside, if we clear the junk. This leads to the next accomplishment.

Introspection, meditation, analysis, using the logical mind when possible. I often like to delve deep, find meaning, and understand things thoroughly. I am still perfecting this skill, but it has been useful to find understand others, life, myself and love. I'm not the best at this yet, in fact I struggle with my monkey mind. I am told it gets easier, and better with practice. Meditation helps calm the mind body and soul, thus making reality seem clear. Which leads to better living, and loving.

Yes I learned to love. I love this guy, he tries my patience constantly but I do love him. Care for him. We aren't perfect people, but we try to make each other better. We learn and grow together, (he may agree or disagree with this!), we learn together, about life, love and each other! Mostly is learning how to be focused, and heck dealing with a long term relationship! It's been tough, but worth it. Laughing together, that's one thing I have learned and enjoyed! 

Through loving I learned to laugh! Laugh at life, ourselves, and it's OK to laugh a hearty laugh as long as no one gets truly hurt (I used to be hypersensitive and get hurt at the slightest joke remotely connected to me. Lesson learned: be less hypersensitive, or come up with a good reason for that hypersensitive-ness).

There were many things learnt along the way, and many more things to learn! I am now working on my 200 hour Yoga Teacher's Training Certificate, working on a book, and learning to refine all the above mentioned skills. I've learned how to take the reigns of control over my body, and health. Never am I letting that go again (ok we say that and sometimes things happen... but to the best of my ability I will hold on to it). I will climb more, write more, love more! These will be my achievements, different from the norms or whats expected but I feel good about these...

Breathe more!


Om!

My sis and I Yoga Posing! 2012 Summer!

This was also my 200th post! :-) yaay!

The Challenges of Aparigraha

Letting Go!

It's something which has been bugging me, forever, it seems.
Being so attached to not just material things, but also ideas (ideologies), opinions, identity, feelings, beliefs... it causes more pain, angst, frustration and suffering than being attached to thing or even to a person.

I am so attached to my opinions, ideas, and things I have to "say" whether it is oral or written because it defines who I am. Defining the "Who I am" is so important to because in a world full of people we realize we are so alike, but then again we are so different, but the fact that we are alike makes us need to define ourselves via our likes, dislikes, hobbies, opinions, ideas. I think these differences help us attract each other. It's funny because there seems to be a phobia, among some, of people/cultures that are different from us- ie. bigorty, homophobia etc. These people are very attached to their ideas and beliefs, so feel threatened by difference. I wonder if these people care to worry about defining themselves from others or prefer conformity.

For the most part there is a growing curiosity among people to explore the "different". This was maybe different 20 years ago, but time changes everything! These people are also willing to explore other ideas, opinions, perspectives, and beliefs. Sometimes being open to ideas/beliefs doesn't mean necessarily accepting them as their own, but accepting them  as a possibility. I try to be open, however sometimes my own ideas are so strong, and perhaps its the ego fending for itself... defending...

Letting all of it go is so difficult... it's strange because I am not indifferent I just wish to be more "Ahimsa" like, if not to avoid hurting another person's feelings with my opinion, to protect myself from their opinion. Also with sharing opinions and ideas, comes judgement, which can also hurt, cause relationships to sour. So what is the best approach? Did yogis, maharishis even think of this stuff back in the day?

I think the only answer is to search more in texts to find the answer. For now I find freedom in letting go of identity, although all that I have accumulated to define me in regards to ideas, hobbies, skills, beliefs, opinions, I have come to love myself that way.  So stripping me of all of that... letting it all go, it just leaves another soul in a human body shell. Can I love that?

This past weekend at yoga class I learnt that suffering is caused through being attached. And all these things - the mind, thoughts, the body, are all external... and external things can not being us happiness. Happiness is inside us all... just like the OM... These are just food for thought... healthy thoughts... enjoy!

Be Present

Breathe!

Kanyakumari, India - Dec 2012 Courtesy Piyali Banerjie and Chris Soria

Reflections on Grudges and Letting Go

Anger, hate, and other negative emotions we experience in life, hold us back from growth: spiritual, mental, emotional and even physical growth or well being. Letting these emotions go, gives us room to breathe and grow! Though hard to do, notice how buoyant, and loving you feel after you let it go. Even the most successful or brilliant person if holding onto these grudges, angers, hates, frustrations, will be stunted in their growth, life's work. Find the serenity in you to let go. Embrace love instead!

Mini Buddha...  By Piyali Banerjie

What I Miss From My Childhood

1991-2001

Walking barefoot in the wet mud, the grass, the hot sands of mid day, the gravely path...

Morning Assembly and sitting on those yellow bamboo mats, cross-legged, straight back; singing, listening, sitting in silence...

Nature walks, enjoying the little things in nature

Having time to notice the tiny things in life- little bugs that move about, grains of sand and their different colors, enjoying a pebble's smoothness...

Running to play; running to feel the wind in your hair, and sand between your toes... running to feel free

Climbing trees just to climb and mangoes, tamarind, were just the bonus

Going to the library to read and reading with friends, exploring books, exploring worlds...

Lazy Sundays and laying out on the terrace with the dog and sister, and doing homework

Tennis and swimming with my bestie and sister... world's best coaches!

Imagination during play time with my sister, creating different worlds, songs, and art...

Yoga class at the Chennai Sivananda Center every evening with my sis

Sitting on the balcony and feeding pigeons

Short hair all those years...

Wearing those absurdly loose comfortable clothing all the time

French classes, German class, Choir, Bengali Class, Hindi tuition!

Walking around the Green Tower's compound with friends in Golf Green

Playing basketball, throw-ball, softball, dodge-ball, cricket, football, badminton during "games" at the end of the day... I liked playing barefoot!!

Licking Glucon D and Glucon C from our palms on sports day

The sandpit

the strange area of limbo between the UKG-LKG building and the senior quadrangle

Freeplay!

Trips to mahabalipuram and muttokaddu on the weekends

Enjoying the coolness of the hill-stations in the summer - horse riding, boating, hiking, and nature preserves

The celebrations, business, guests, hustle-bustle during Durga Puja

Taking the dog for a walk through IIT campus, and AC Tech College

Going birdwatching ridiculously early to cool places... and seeing amazing birds

Going on turtle walks all night long, and playing with the luminescent phosphorous the Bay of Bengal spat out...

Floods during the monsoons, the large puddles which would let my paper boats sail far and wide

Music on cassettes meant you had to listen to the whole thing, and B side...

Good lyrics in good songs with good music...

The Doberlane concert series and meeting amazing musicians in a half asleep state...

Bicycling for the fun of just wandering the neighborhood, bicycling with bestie, and sister, finding puppies and kittens along the way

Ice cream on special occasions only

The random drives to Besant Nagar beach (Elliot's beach), just because my dad felt like it

Making apple pie with my mum, and all my friends loving it

Making fruit salad in a watermelon basket with my mom and all my friends loving it

Sitting under the tree at the car-park and waiting for the car to show up, enjoying the bark of the tree, enjoying the curious red beetles with diamond designs on their backs...

The flock of parrots that fly over head

Eating puchka (Golgappa)

Going to the stationary store once in 2-3 years and getting a new pencil box, sharpener, eraser, pencil

The yearly notebook and textbook buying for school...

Going to dad's work and getting scrap paper to draw on...

Those old printers and the noise it made, was like music, and I could almost dance to it

The Video Cassette rental store and the different worlds it held

Getting a phone call from a friend on a week night and sister picking up the parallel line and eavesdropping on the plans for the next day!

Going to the dentist/ doctor, and seeing what I could be afraid of this time, or what I would become a hypochondriac about

Spending time with my dogs, napping with them, feeding them, walking them, barking with them...

Talking to my sis all night long...

My awesome neighbors in Kotturpuram

Bus rides to and from school with the best bus people in the school

Playing indoor cricket

Playing leg cricket

Dosa, Idly, Sambar, Rasam, Chutney, Vadai, Mullagai Podi, Korumbu

Biryani

The rare summer time family trips to the most boring places like "The Himalayas", "Corbett National Park", "Agra", "Kolkata", "New York", "Ooty", "Kodai", "Mysore", "Coorg", "Pondicherry", "Delhi"...

Grandma's cooking

Going to Mama'r baari in Boronagar, Kolkata

Begun Bhaaja, Alloo Bhaaja, Bhaat aar Ghee... Iktu dal - simple satisfying meals

Dadu taking us to "bara" to the most random-est places...

Going to the book store with mom, and wishing to buy all the Enid Blyton books... or all the children's books in general

Reading non-stop during Summer Holidays

Reading non-stop during the term

Taking part in plays, the drama, the hustle, the thrill of performing...

Creativity - art, pottery, weaving, dance, gymnastics, writing, acting, singing

Calls from my uncle Danny in USA

My uncle introducing me to "outer space", "physics", "astronomy", "star wars" and being cool in general in a nerdy way!

Never missing the internet or smart phones... and Prince of Persia was the only fun thing on computers.




 Breathing the whole time! Loving every second of it!

Visiting Our Childhood - Piyali Banerjie

The One Heart Way

If you read my previous blog about what happened to me, you must have wondered, so what did she do after that? How did she go on? There would be many questions.

First off- I told someone, and that someone helped me find help. Especially since, abuse leads a women to lose self respect, looks for self-deprecation. This is because of all things the woman blames herself, and self worth plummets. She believes she deserves this abuse, and unknowingly seeks out more abuse. It is hard to break the cycle. I think once we identify victims of childhood molestation, abuse, and rape, we must intervene with confidence boosting therapy/ help to break the cycle. I was lucky to have a few great mentors/counselors along the way. Unlearn being the victim, and focus on building the self once again.

Second - I refused to ever feel helpless like that again. I promised myself I would never get "drunk" with anyone I do not utterly trust. So, honestly, I get drunk only if i am home, with my parents, or with my boyfriend (who would have had to earn my trust). Also I always make sure there is a designated driver (drinking and driving is so dangerous, please always have a DD).If I am ever at a club again I will always buy my drink from the bartender and watch him make my drink. Never accepting drinks from any guy I don't know, anymore. If you don't drink alcohol, good for you, but remember, roofies/other "date-rape" drugs, could be mixed with your non-alcoholic beverages too, so beware.

After my sister's incident, she and I both began learning Kwanmukan Karate. However as children we both  learnt basic self defense from Shihan Hussaini. This was my first introduction to Isshin-ryu Karate. Then I picked it up again in 2007 here. I practice it non-competitively since I do this for me. My Sensei is slowly teaching me how to spar. Isshin-ryu means a lot to me, because my Sensei not only taught us how to defend ourselves, but the history of Karate, discipline, helping out in the Dojo, being good to ourselves, becoming fit, reminding us to drink water, it is more than fighting...It's the meaning behind it all.  A meaning, a code that must not be taken lightly. The philosophy is the base of all forms of martial arts, including this form of karate, which stem from various regions of the East, for Isshin-ryu, it stems from the Ryu-Kyu Islands of Okinawa (Japan), are truly eye opening- simple but profound (like most eastern philosophy). Isshin-ryu stands for - The One Heart Way (literal), but meaning - the way of the one heart.. the story goes on to say we all have one beating heart. So I will fight you if I must, but the choice is yours. Although I may have mace, or some sort of self-defense tool, I now have my empty hands,for they are learned in "the way". I maybe no black belt, but the first rule is ... avoid conflict at all costs, run! I talk to my Sensei about this and many scenarios, and he is very strong, so I always think its the best way to practice.

Third - Always be alert when walking in an unknown place, or at night. Don't let your guard down even if it is in your own neighborhood (see Kitty Genovese). Be ready, be alert, remember what you could use to defend yourself.

Fourth - working on "ME" has helped mend me, my confidence, self esteem and my heart and soul. I learned to be more conscious, and give love, forgive, and let the light flow. I think this healing came from my sister, who has a crazier story than mine. Thought younger, she has learned so much in such a short time. She is my hero. Find a way to heal, spiritually. It is very important, for the spirit is what is ripped open, no matter what happens to the body. (I honestly wish I could refer my sister to people who need this help, she does have an awesome organization called Conscious Culture). Meditation, art, writing, music, yoga, dance... are all creative outlets to

I am glad though I can take care of myself, and I now know that "No means No". I know what sexual harassment is, and I let people know when they have crossed the threshold. I am glad I grew out of my drinking-partying-clubbing stage, and have grown up to be interested in a different type of night life (camping, star gazing...). However I never forget the things I learned, especially since I travel to different places.

I also never forget to breathe...

The Goddess/ Megami the symbol for Isshin-ryu Karate

2013: Resolution Smesolution

I asked Ryan what his resolution was a few years ago, and he said he didn't make promises he could not keep. That's pretty much what a resolution was. Most people make a promise to themselves to stop eating desserts, work out more, quit smoking etc., and inevitably most people end up breaking their resolutions. So I totally saw his logic. Honestly who am I fooling? It sounds so virtuous and it does make for great conversation at a New Years Eve party, but it really takes more work than that. I don't remember a year that I actually practiced my New Year's Resolution for the whole year. So this year I thought for a long time about what last year meant and what will be different this year.

My goals in regards to health, and career are what will be my main focus this year. I will work out more, watch what I eat, learn to cook healthier meals. I will be mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually more CONSCIOUS! I will pursue music, photography and drawing. I will learn Chinese. I will get back in shape to do all the things I love to do by May. Blog more... last year I wrote 65 blogs! i love blogging, i love your feedback! Keep it coming!
Career wise, I will write more, focus on my book, other writing projects, maybe start something on my own... I don't know what this year holds, but I will be open to all options at this point. I am so excited, opportunities abound!!

That's it right there! Those are my goals for this year. Keep it simple, make it a part of me...
I don't want to go into detail, but I am sure it will unfold on here as the month's go by!

Until then I am grateful for my lovely family, my amazingly talented best friend and boyfriend Ryan, my wonderful loving friends, my work, whatever health I do have, and ...

Breathe!

Yeah, I drew/calligraphy-ed/ wrote this!

Almost 30, Unmarried and Undeniably Happy

If I want a white dress, I'll buy myself one, and wear it! Wedding or not.

I never dreamed of my wedding day, dress or anything. In fact I don't even know if I wanted to marry. Babies? Well they drool and puke. Really! Maybe I was wrongly born as a girl. I have always fantasized about sex!


I think I realized I was different when I was a kid and realized at times I had strange thoughts. For example, I was probably 7 or 8 and I was on a swing with my friends, we were all laughing hysterically. I remember this moment so well, because I had a profound thought 'I'm so happy I could die right now, and I would be satisfied not having seen the rest of what life holds.' Then suddenly I realized my spirit self would see my parents crying. I never like seeing my mom cry, it breaks my heart, she is such a wonderful woman and deserves all the happiness in the world. So although I was OK with dying, I decided it was not right. I asked a close friend during a sleepover what she thought and she told I had some strange ideas and I should not think that way.

As a child of 9 or 10 years I was heavily influenced by my mom and my aunt. Both very strong Indian women, they showed me what it was like to be a modern woman. A woman who goes beyond being just seen and not heard - a woman with a voice. A woman who isn't just a pretty face but a brain as sharp as a sword. I was encouraged and pushed to branch out my knowledge base, to research, to hold opinions on issues... they helped me grow.

Another girl (now woman) who inspired me was a fellow class mate. She was always head-strong, down to earth, logical and practical; her solutions to problems/situations were simple yet it was the truth. We would sometimes talk about what we wanted when we grew up and we discussed at a small age that "marriage" was not really our thing. It might be other people's thing, but we had a different path, although we would definitely like to have a life partner. I forgot about this discussion until recently when she reminded me of it once again. WE had many such profound discussions on religion, atheism, agnosticism, spirituality, life, death, children, women, the world, careers... we were just children then. I wish we could sit and talk now and see if our perspectives have changed. We definitely decided to be as open minded as possible.

Anyway here I am almost 30 and not married. Everyone keeps asking me why I am not married yet, when I plan to marry... And I ask so want to ask "Why should I?" I do not, because I realize getting married and having children is a societal, cultural norm of the world. It is not always pushed upon a man, as much as it is expected of a woman. Most people would not understand my point of view, because it is what we women want, correct? To get married, settle down and have children.

I do not think less of woman who want that. Yes, many older women including my mother, and women my age have told me that getting married and having children is so full-filling, I will regret it someday. However my life has not been perfect, and I do not regret any decisions I have made; I may look back and think I could have chosen wiser, but I am always grateful for the now, and not look back in anger or despair. I do wish people who get married and settle down all the happiness, sometimes I am almost convinced by their happiness that I want that too. Then I remember ME, and maybe it is selfishness in some people's eyes, but I remember that is not what I want. I want more.

People tell me I can have "more" being married, and having children. They do not understand that their road is not my road. I just don't want to take that route. I want to go this other route. I don't want pity, I have a healthy and happy relationship. Lately everyone is talking about the War on Men a rant by a woman by the name of Suzanne Venkar, who says men don't want to marry because women are not women anymore. If women want to get married they need to "submit to their femininity". Yeah well maybe those men need to change their attitudes, and maybe woman need to realize "stuff". And this CNN reporter states it the way I thought it "But she is actually arguing that if men aren't happy, it's women's fault -- for seeking the very same exhilarating sense of autonomy and selfhood that men claim as our natural entitled birthright. How dare they?" (See the full article at The Mythical 'War on men'). Well am so grateful for this guys article, because pretty much states in a round about way, that if men don't want to get married, neither do women.

I am lucky to have a caring boyfriend who wishes me to be strong, to be highly motivated, in fact that is what he wants in a woman. We balance each other out, we share chores whether they are "feminine" duties, or manly duties. We communicate clearly, and cultivate trust and honesty. I now know I have male friends who want more "feminine" women. In fact maybe they are scared of bold woman such as myself. Women like us can not be "controlled". Most men like control... come on man up and admit it! Anyway, although I have this lovely man in my life, I don't see other than financially, what other good marriage will do for us? Will it stop either of us from cheating? Will it prevent illness? If you have a very good logical and practical answer which differs from everything anyone has told me, I would like to hear it.

Concluding as my relatives, elders, and society can not plainly see that for me growing, doing good for the world, having a healthy loving relationship with my man, and just being happy, are enough. I don't know how to explain it to them or make them all see, so I have given up trying to explain. So this is why I am writing this. On the other hand I would like some respect... from society. Quit it! Stop it! Stop with all nagging, the pressure, the questions, the wondering if I am lesbian (and even if I am - SO WHAT?), worrying if I will be OK or happy... There's war in Palestine and Israel and you are worried about me getting married. There's an economic crisis and unemployment and you are worried about the man I am dating. The world is about to seize existing on Dec 20th and you want to worry about MY future! Laughable! It's my life!!! I'm not telling you how to live yours, stop telling me how to live mine!


Breathe!

In a country, in a world where we can be whoever we want to be... I want to be ME! Happy!

So Adding this after I read what George Takei wrote about marriage equality and same sex marriages:
"The core value of marriage is two people who love each other and are committed to each other. It isn’t necessarily defined by gender… You want security for your spouse, whatever may happen, and our laws do not provide that. We want security for when we should pass. I can give you an example: we had friends—it’s past tense now—in Washington, D.C. They’d been together for over a decade. One partner went out of town on a business trip, came back, opened his apartment door and his partner was on the floor…died of a heart attack in his absence. The deceased partner’s relative was a lawyer-brother in Boston from whom he had been estranged. He came and took everything. The laws were against the one that spent more life…They shared their lives and their fortune, yet he lost it all. So this grieving partner lost not only the love of his life, but everything they had built together. There’s that kind of injustice. And this kind of legalistic barrier that we insist on putting up is, to me, unfathomable. In the case of our being incarcerated during the Second World War, we looked different—visually identifiable. But in the case of homophobia, we are literally members of a family. We are sons and daughters of heterosexual parents. We are brothers and sisters. We are literally kin, blood kin. And yet to deny the LGBT member of a family the same legal protections and rights that they enjo…It’s irrational."

It's the only pros/ benefits I see of getting married. Personally I can find the value between two people who love each other and be committed to them despite Jake Gyllenhaal throwing himself at me, without marriage. (Whoa two celebrity references). Yes though in the case of disease and death this marriage goes hand in hand with the law, and thus is handy.

Sunday Work Out

This was a super busy weekend, but ate healthy the whole time.

We went out and got some semi healthy groceries - Jewish Rye Bread, cold cut turkey, pepper jack cheese (probably not the healthiest), fruits (grapes, pomegranate, strawberries - too ripe), salmon, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, carrots, lemon and milk (rice milk and normal 2% milk). This would be our food for a few days.
We had a sandwich with the rye, meat, cheese and mustard that day, and shopped the rest of the day, walking fast through crowds since we wanted to get home soon. Although they say shopping does help burn calories but is not exercise, this was super exhausting.
We rested for a bit and then went to my dad's house for dinner. Later we played X box Kinect adventures which was super fun and a lot of exercise. I think we like the rafting thing a lot.

Sunday we went to the gym around 4 and worked out for 1 and a half hours- we walked a mile or so, and worked on our abs, legs and glutes.
Walking .5 miles first. Began slowly, then gradually picked up the pace.
We took a break and did stretches, by squatting. this stretched out the toes, feet, Achilles's tendon,Calves, and Ham. kind of like the guys below. yep they are worker guys in China taking a break. We also see this in India a lot. One wouldn't think it was an exercise, but it is great for the body. remember to keep your back straight, shoulders and neck relaxed, and use your legs.

 Then we did this stretch:

Side bends:

Hold each side for about 60 counts, then do the variation below.

Trikonasana

Side bends help stretch, but also help work out the side love handles... which all us women love so much :-/
Hold this pose for about 60 counts. So let's burn those love handles off and shape the body!

We then got down on the mat to do some abs:

Ryan stood on my feet to keep me stable, while doing the sit ups. From being on your back to sitting up positing. With a small twist to this boring old exercise, which gives amazing results. Then we got a 1 kg ball to pass back and forth while doing the sit up. This helps keep your mind off the work, the burn of the sit up and on the ball, which will otherwise smack your face. Great tactic. We did 3 sets of 10 reps (repetitions), and with the two types of sit ups working upper and lower abs. The second type of sit up was a smaller movement, just reaching directly up (instead of forward to sitting position):

This is kind of more straight up movement than forward to sitting up right. It is a small movement getting only your shoulder blades, upper back, neck and head off the ground, than a full sit up.

Then we did leg lifts. Yeah. those, however we made it interesting by changing it up. Ryan stood by my head, so I could grab his ankles to stabilize myself. Then when i would do a leg lift and my feet would be in front of him, he would firmly push it away in any direction, left, right, or forward. Keeping it random, this helps work out all the different ab muscles.


Then we set off to do legs. We went to this awful  machine, as below in the picture, and loaded it with 45 lb weights on each side (90 lbs total), but the bar itself. In the picture this guy has his neck and head raised, it should be relaxed. So this is like doing a squat, however in this position your back is straight, and gravity is pulling the ground toward you.

We 3 sets of ten reps. Ryan had to put on three 45lb weights on both sides (lifting 270 lbs total); now everyone does not have to be this macho to start off with! Remember what you do today you will feel and ache tomorrow.

Then I bench pressed a bar which was mighty heavy for me. I did 2 sets of 8.

We completed walking a little more than half a mile and called it a night. Yes we are both really sore today. All the sets I did, Ryan did with weights or some other advanced variation. When I am able to do that level again I will write about it. Till then I am taking it slow and steady.

Breathe!

Let's Get Healthy

It's time to get back in shape, for me, at least.

I have had some health issues for a quite a few months now, as a result I have gained weight, have high blood pressure, and haven't been able to do the active things I love doing. I don't want to go into details of the nature of the health issue, but I am sure many of you are aware, and dealing with a family crisis back in India. The weight gain has been due to hormonal imbalances, organs not working right, and depression as a result of pain, and hormones. In order for the body to function exercise is important, however if you are in so much pain you can't move (which I have experienced), exercise is difficult. So the hormonal imbalance, Pain, and lack of exercise (doing things I love), all result in inability to burn fat, calories. Also when you are in that state, you don't really want to eat healthy.

For  the next couple of months I will blog about how to get back into shape to hike, yoga, climb, dance, and run. Get into that peak physical condition - shape, cardiovascular, muscular, mental level which I had but a year ago. I am starting from ground zero and with astounding high blood pressure (side effect of meds? Doc is working with me to narrow the cause). If you want to get into shape and do things like biking 40 miles etc. stick with me and hopefully by spring we should be in shape (hopefully sooner, for I long to go back country hiking and camping this winter).

First off I am totally cleaning up my diet - low sodium, which means mostly cooking at home, using fresh ingredients- VEGGIES! Researching (Wikipedia/Google) the nutrition of the ingredients, adding little to zero salt. Using spices for flavoring, and not eating out as much.
I will have some alcohol (beer, wine) on weekends. I never indulge in caffeine other than Earl Grey.
Eating lots of fruits.
Oh did I mention this miraculous but nasty thing called Oatmeal? It helps reduce blood pressure among other things, it is so good for weight loss, but after eating it for 3 years (when I lived at home) it just sounds kind of gross to me. Yes lots and lots of oatmeal.

Starting off these next few weeks: slow and easy Yoga and Pilates, walking or elliptical for 30 minutes to an hour, some light weights to get the arms and back, back in shape, and breathing exercises (Kapalbhati - I learnt it at the Sivananda Yoga Center, Chennai, Google or ask me to learn more and see if it is right for you).

During the work day: watch posture, walk as much as you can, drink lots of water (yes I forget this simple task) and let's not forget sneaking in some... OATMEAL!

 Breathe!

The Secret to Beautiful Long Healthy Gorgeous Luscious Hair

Growing up in India, I saw women with the longest, healthiest thickest and gorgeous hair. I always had short hair, so I had no idea about true hair care, but after finally growing my hair out in 2009, I have learnt so much, by talking to my grandmothers, aunts and other relatives and friends in India, who despite everything have gorgeous glossy long hair. Their secrets will be shared with you!

First, the rules!
If you don't want to bald by 50, and trust me it WILL happen, especially if you chemically treat and style with heat, then you will definitely want to follow these rules. Firstly don't dye your hair, its just not good for you or your hair. The chemicals strip it of moisture, and it does touch your roots and scalp, thus being a danger to you. Other chemical treatments should be avoided too - straightening, curling etc. We will talk about learning how to love your natural hair texture, shape, and how to treat it well.  Secondly, blow drying, straightening curling your hair with curling irons, ruins your hair, especially dries it out, burns and damages it. I used to straighten my hair everyday, for I love the straight look, and have wavy hair. However my hair got so damaged, and stressed. My hair is now midway down my back, to dry my hair I towel dry first. Then I let it air dry in the summer (yes it takes 4-5 hours), and use a diffuser to blow dry it on COOL, in the winter. Third: Wash your hair in cool/ cold water. This prevents your hair from falling out. If you can't then use warm water, and then rinse out in cooler water. This is good for your hair and body. Use conditioners less often. Although it makes your hair "smooth", it weakens it, and causes it to fall out easily and or break easily. Then your head ends up with these few stragglers that stand straight up. Lastly, don't brush hair while wet. It breaks your hair, and pulls hair out. Use a comb, or a brush when its almost dry or dry.

For dry, frizzy hair: Use coconut oil the night before you wash your hair the next morning. Coconut oil (Parachute/ Dabur/Vatika) can be got at any Indian Store. Wash your hair with a mild natural shampoo (Vatika), only once, let the oil stay in if it does cause it soothes out the frizz. It works well for hair in this Ohio type climate (which is pretty much ranges from dry to humid to stormy and sunny in one day, everyday!).Amla oil is great for hair loss, and reduces and encourages hair to grow back, however it is stinky. If you have naturally oily hair, well lucky you! You might think it's gross but the natural oils and sweat actually protects your hair!

For hair growth: Eat fish! baked fish not fried. Fried food is not good for skin, we want healthy skin and scalp right! Baked, or steamed fish is great! Nuts like almonds, foods with the Omegas help hair growth. There are other oils you can use for it to grow faster, but they smell gross. If you wish just comment and I'll let you know what and where you can get it.

Other hair care: So Honey, Lime, Beer, Eggs, and Yogurt are great natural treatment for hair. Eggs whipped and put on hair, are great strengtheners. Yes they stink. I don't suggest it. I did it maybe twice or thrice in high school. Many girls in high school cracked eggs on their heads, stank but had lovely hair.
Mixing a little honey in a mug/ small bucket, and then mixing it up, and then rinsing your hair, is a great conditioner and removes frizzies. Lemon helps lighten dark hair in a natural way, plus rinsing your hair with lime/lemon removes excess oil. Rinsing hair with a dark beer (like say Guinness, or Killian), well I've yet to try it, but it is said it's good to get rid of hair frizzies. The yogurt is good protein, and conditions hair too.

This girl's video was great cause it shows you how to put on oil in your hair. I like to massage it into my scalp by dripping drops onto my scalp at various locations after parting it well. Also love this video cause apparently the music is way to scary for most people. She has nice hair!

If you have curly hair, wavy hair, dry hair, oily hair, straight hair... and want to be natural and healthy about it, learn to love it and work with it. I greatly disliked my curls for my whole life and wanted pin straight hair, I learned to wear it well, by oiling, and using as less hair product as possible. I love using Moroccan Argan hair oil for reducing frizzies and styling it everyday! I eat fish once or twice a week. I like to keep my hair healthy and long, because one day I want to donate my hair to locks of love!

http://www.locksoflove.org/

Challenge Yourself

Throughout our lives our body, the body chemistry, changes- for a handful, it just stays the same. Anyway these changes affect our shape, size, etc. Exercise is the best way to maintain a healthy body with a balanced healthy diet.

I lost my consistency of going to the gym since November last year when I began traveling. Then when I got back, moved and had easy access to a small gym I was not motivated enough. I made sure I did something physically active every week, but that was not enough, some fat had just latched itself onto my sexy body. I began running outside with my uncle, sustained a small injury to my plantar's fascia, climbed every now and then, biked and walked with Ryan. It kept me at a stable size. However that wasn't who, or what I wanted to be. not enough endorphins, and too much fat (for my height, and age). So I put myself to a 90 day challenge of working out for atleast an hour a day, with a 24 hour break every 7 days (everyone is coming up with a version of a 90 day challenge!). I want to push myself, but not push myself to death.

Running/cardio for at least 40 minutes every morning at the ungodly hour of 5:30 - 6:30am. Then I do arms. I go to the assisted pull up machine thing, and set the assist to 14 (lbs? I honestly don't know, I should read it next time). I learnt this awful work out from my climbing buddies Munn and Damien. Hold up for 30 seconds (sometimes 20), then arms at 90* angle and hold (30-20 secs), then little more than 90* - hold (30-20secs), Hang with no assist (30 seconds). Rest 30 seconds to 1 minute. Do 10-5 pull ups, if you can not, then do negative pull ups. Next repeat the previous routine of chin up, 90*, >90*, and hang again (I repeat it because I forgot what the actual thing was). Will take a picture next time and post  the entire climbing / hangboard work out.

Then sometimes I use some of the fancy machines for arms, back, and legs, but I mix it up for now. I will change this as the weeks progress. Also I will begin spinning classes, yoga, and some sort of major cardio work out in week 4. This is currently week 2 and day 8! Woot woot!

Bicycling to work every now and then (or to wherever), and walking up and down the stairs at work, hikes, dancing, I just remember to engage my core muscles, since I can feel them again! Crunches! I go to this other hanging machine, and do leg lifts, straight, to crunching my knees up. Also some legs straight up. your arms are working, core is engaging and crunching! Yay!

Food, I have been putting chia seeds in my shredded frosted wheat cereal which I have with almond milk (which froze - so its more like a slushy breakfast). Then kale is my new mate, and I bake it with a little bit of olive oil, pinch of salt, pepper, and drop of lemon juice. Apples great for women and provide fiber. lots and lots of water. Fish grilled, and chicken - protein of choice. Fish helps hair grow, and I have to have it atleast once a week. Salads, and Subway sandwiches (flat bread- toasted), say no to cheese, yes to guac/avacado, no to any sauce stuff, mustard is an OK. Sandwich at home- whole wheat 12 grain bread (so gross but so healthy), turkey, mustard, ultra thin sliced swiss, colby jack(?), Enjoy!

After a week of working out - I feel a definite change, pulling up my pants was way easier. I doubt anyone can visibly see a change except me. I read somewhere - 1 week you can see the change; 1 month you family can see the change; 2 months you friends can see the change; 3 months (90 days) and public can see a change!

The kale stuff is great and awesome crunchy snack, highly recommend it. Will post the recipe.

Till next time!

Breathe!

Let's work out! Get stronger fingers!

kind of like what Munn was following... this is "easy"

I forgot burpees - jump, squat, plank, pushup, plank, squat, jump! x 10! :-)

Breathe! and cursing is allowed, but DO IT!

do this too! you can also use a paper plate instead of a ball, if the angle scares you. 

Or do it like this!

Crunching the abs

the hanging leg lift!

Breathe!