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How to live a Millionaire Lifestyle?

The idea behind a wealthy lifestyle is to think as millionaires. Here is how you can enjoy your life and have a millionaire lifestyle.

Some people are not rich, but they look and live like millionaires. They do not own businesses, but they would give you an aura of being the richest. The idea behind living a wealthy lifestyle is to think like a millionaire. It will take time to grasp the concept, but it will reflect in your actions and judgment once you start working on your mindset.

You will become more productive, responsible, and highly successful in whatever you do. The goal is to manage your time, money, goals, and environment in a better and effective way. You can easily spend quality time with family and friends, travel to different places, engage in your hobbies and learn new skills and start meeting new people. You can do all this and a lot more without owning a million dollars. However, if you know the real pros and cons, you might not want to be a millionaire.

At times, all people want is peace, but they might not get it. There would always be another call, another meeting, or deal awaiting them. They might not get time for family, and they would keep on worrying about protecting the piles of money.

Let’s see how you can live a millionaire and enjoy your life!

1) Time

Time plays a significant role in the lives of millionaires. The more money you have, the more precious your time is. You and all the millionaires have the same number of hours in a day, but you do not have the entourage they have. They have chefs, assistants, and many handlers with them to manage their things. You can make effective use of your time by not wasting it. There are many ways through which you can create focus and engage yourself in good time management. You can stop wasting your time over tv, hire an assistant, exercise at home, divide tasks among all family members, and automate paying bills and other related duties.

2) Vacations

Millionaires set aside a few days from their busy schedule to go on vacations with their loved ones every year. These vacations, I must say, are not at all average. They are very expensive, lavish, and all about being a millionaire. It might not sound like a good idea to you. Still, you might try to save some extra cash and plan a mini-vacation, or if you want to follow in the footsteps of a businessman.

The millionaires, while on vacations, go to different places such as fancy restaurants, expensive amusement parks, shopping, and even casinos to try their luck. At times, they end up winning $1 billion on the Mega Millions lottery, which only adds up to their wealth. However, this might not always happen as such games do not always guarantee a win. Therefore, your holiday does not necessarily have to be fancy, and it could be a simple yet fun-filled one to freshen you up!

3) Clear all your Debts

Smart millionaires always stay away from debts. They work on what they own, which gives them a priceless feeling and a sense of security. Therefore, if you have any obligations or credit card bills, you can start with paying them off. Also, if you have any home loans, try to pay them off as soon as possible. This will make you feel more competent in your finances.

4) Loved ones

Rich people are smart, and they know very well how to spend their time. They know who to give priority to and who to spend some time with. They plan things accordingly and go on vacations with their loved ones or spend quality time with them every day. It could be any part of the day, but they do keep their priorities straight. They tend to surround them with those who keep them happy, which keeps them motivated throughout their day. You can do the same!

5) Career

Your career must be such that it defines you well. The millionaires spend their day on things they enjoy doing. They love to make good use of their day, and if they do not find that work satisfying, they switch to another venture. They believe in change, and they believe in happiness in what they do. If you wish to live like a millionaire, you do not need all the money in the world. You can start by focusing on the fundamental things they do in their life and career.

3 Ways to give your Bedroom a Decoration Reset

Are you bored with your current bedroom décor and want to give your bedroom a decoration reset? Here’s 3 ways you could do it.

Are you bored with your current bedroom décor? Are you finding it difficult to find the time to redecorate the whole room? Why not change just one aspect, to give your bedroom a decoration reset? Here’s 3 ways you could do it.

Change the walls

If you know how to wallpaper a wall, then this is a great way to add your personality and style to your bedroom. Just be sure to pick a style that reflects your personality, rather than simply being on-trend. Because trends change very quickly, and you don’t want to be changing the paper after a short time.

Another way to change your walls, without decorating, is to add new artwork. This requires very little time and effort to do, but is perfect for adding a bit of new life to your old décor. Whether you plump for an arty triptych, group together a collection of pictures, or hang one large artwork, is all a matter of personal preference. There’s no right way or wrong way.

Add new furnishings

Adding something new to a room can have a surprising effect, giving the whole space a lift. Great items to add are new rugs, new bedside tables or an accent chair. Make sure any new furnishings you add will fit in with your existing décor without the need for complete redecoration. Use smaller bedroom accessories to help tie everything together. Items such as cushions, throws and ornaments in a single style or colour for instance.

Other positive additions you can make to a bedroom include hanging a stylish mirror and adding in some plants. Plants such as the Peace Lily, Spider Plant, Snake Plant and Aloe Vera are ideal choices.

Improve your lighting

Changing your lighting is a good way to help give your bedroom a decoration reset. Try changing your main lighting for something that will create a nice centrepiece to your room. If you’re going for a pendant shade, look for something that has a designer or sculptural feel to it, so it stands out. Again, make sure you choose a light fitting that reflects your personal style.

But don’t stop there, try adding wall-mounted bedside lighting, fairy lights, cluster lights, table lamps or wall sconces.

Have these 3 ideas sparked your creativity? Do let me know if this has inspired you to give your bedroom a decoration reset.

Make the most of Diwali at home

Diwali is a great time to spend some quality time with friends & family. Here is how you can make the most of Diwali with your family at home.

Diwali, the most-awaited and biggest festival in India is just around the corner. The 5 days festival that is also known as the festival of lights is celebrated to honour the victory of good over evil. It is believed that on this day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with his wife after killing the demon Ravana. On Diwali, people dress up their finest clothes, light diyas, make rangoli and worship Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. Checkout more festive blogs here.

The 5 days of Diwali

Dhanteras marks the beginning of the 5 days Diwali festival. People worship Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi, the god and goddess of wealth on this day. Dhanteras is considered an auspicious day to buy jewellery and clothes.
The second day of Diwali is celebrated as Choti Diwali. It is believed that on this day Goddess Kali and Lord Krishna killed the demon Narakasura.
Diwali is the main festival of the 5 days celebrations and it symbolises the victory of light over darkness. On this day people decorate their homes, exchange gifts & sweets and perform Lakshmi puja.
Govardhan Puja is celebrated on the fourth day of Diwali. On this day, a Lord Krishna’s idol is made out of cow dung and then it is worshipped and some women also fast on this day.
The last festival of the 5 days celebration is Bhai Dooj. On this day, sisters perform aarti for their brothers and wish for their long and happy life.

How to make the most of Diwali at home

Diwali is a great time to get together and spend some quality time with friends & family, but this time because of the pandemic the celebrations are going to be a bit different. Here is how you can make the most of the festivities with your family at home.

1. Dress up for pictures

Celebrating Diwali at home doesn’t mean that you can’t dress up. Put on your finest, traditional clothes and pose for some nice pictures and share them on your family Whatsapp groups. This will make this quarantine celebration a memorable one.

2. Prepare a grand Diwali thali

Diwali without food is incomplete and now that you are celebrating it at home, you can invest even more time in the meal preparation. Cook your family’s favourite food and treat them with a grand thali. Checkout the thali I prepared here.

3. Celebrate on Video call

Not being able to meet your friends and family on Diwali can be tough, and in times like these, a video call is the best way to connect. Decide a time and bring your family & friends together for a video party.

4. Send Gift cards

You can’t meet your loved ones to exchange gifts, but you can surprise them with a gift card. If you want to give them something thoughtful sitting at home, then gift cards are the best way to do that and believe me it will make them happy.

5. Indulge in Online Shopping

Diwali is the time for some amazing online offers and discounts, so why not make the most of them by shopping online. You can even surprise your friends & relatives by sending them online gifts.

Tips to celebrate an Eco-friendly Diwali

Celebrating at home doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali. Here are some tips to make your at-home celebrations eco-friendly.

Decorate the house with eco-friendly products or do the DIY decorations.
Use earthen oil diyas instead of LED lights and lamps.
Wish your loved ones by gifting them organic products or green plants.
Use natural colours for rangoli or flowers instead of chemically synthesized colours.
Instead of bursting crackers play some fun family games.

Here are some things that you can do to make the most of Diwali celebrations at home with your family.

This year things won’t be like before, but we can still celebrate it and make it memorable by doing some simple things. Hope you have a happy and safe Diwali.

9 HEALTHY RICE CAKE TOPPING IDEAS

9 healthy and tasty rice cake toppings to satisfy both your sweet and savoury cravings. All these toppings are super easy and are quick to make.

Since the time I have started putting extra emphasis on eating healthy, I am on a constant lookout for new food to try in the kitchen. Making something that is wholesome and also sparks the interest of children is really challenging (all the moms reading this will know). So, the other day while going through the struggle of finding a nutritious snack to munch on, I decided to give the normal rice cake a little twist. I tried 9 different healthy rice cake toppings, both sweet & salty and they turned out so delicious that I had to share the recipe with you.

Here are 9 yummy rice cake topping for your every mood.

Nutella & Banana Rice Cake

Nutella is already everyone’s favorite and when you pair it with bananas you get a super tasty yet healthy combination like this. Spread nutella on the rice cake, top it with banana slices and you are done.

Strawberry Jam & Blueberries Rice cake

Strawberry jam and blueberry rice cake topping

Yummy strawberry jam topped with blueberries, this rice cake has to be kid’s favorite. You can use any jam or berries of your choice to give it a twist.

Almond Butter & Apple Rice Cake

Almond butter and apple rice cake topping

When the goodness of almond butter and apples come together, you get at mouth-watering rice cake topping. You can substitute the almond butter for peanut butter and the results will be just as good.

Raspberry, Nuts & Raisin Rice Cake

Raspberry nuts and raisins rice cake topping

Making a healthy and tasty snack doesn’t get easier than this. Just cut some raspberry and sprinkle some nuts & raisins and enjoy.

Avocado and Tomato Rice Cake

This one is a great substitute for your regular avocado toast. Smash the avocado, add lime juice & salt to it and spread it on the rice cake. Top it with cherry tomatoes, sprinkle some black pepper and voila.

Feta Cheese & Cucumber Rice Cake

Feta cheese and cucumber rice cake topping

The freshness of cucumber, combined with goodness of feta cheese gives us this delish rice cake. Put the feta cheese and cucumber on the rice cake, season with some salt and pepper and get munching.

Cheddar Cheese & Tomatoes Rice Cake

Cheddar cheese and tomato rice cake topping

Cheddar cheese and tomatoes make for such a finger-licking combination. Spread some grated cheddar cheese on the rice cake, top it with cherry tomatoes, add salt & pepper for seasoning and relish this delicious rice cake.

Pesto & Feta Cheese Rice Cake

Have some left over pesto sauce at home? Put it to good use by creating this flavorful rice cake topping. Spread the pesto sauce on the rice cake, add some feta cheese on top and there you have it pesto and feta cheese rice cake.

Cheese Spread and Cucumber Rice Cake

Cheese spread and cucumber rice cake topping

This one is my son’s favorite, because it has cheese spread of course. Put a layer of cheese spread on the rice cake, top it with cucumber slices, add some salt if you want and satisfy your taste buds with this tasty combinations.

Some other rice cake toppings you can try :

Hummus & Cucumber Rice Cake
Nutella & Pumpkin Seeds Rice Cake
Yogurt & Almond Rice Cake
Salsa & Scrambled Eggs Rice Cake
Avocado & Boiled Eggs Rice Cake

These are some of the topping that I tried, you can of course experiment with the things you like and give it your own twist. Hope you liked my ideas and will try them yourself, do let me know if you do. Till then check out more healthy recipes here.

Things To Do At Home While In Lockdown Mode

As coronavirus continues to ravage different parts of the world, a large number of countries have resorted to self-imposed lockdowns. Though the measure for social distancing seems stringent, it is surely meant for the greater good. And I see the silver lining in the fact that now is the time we can get back to the basics, spend more time with family and catch up everything that we’ve been missing in the race to stay ahead. Here are some things I would suggest doing at home to make the most of the lockdown mode.

Cook- If you are an avid cooking enthusiast like me, now is the time to experiment with your grandma’s classic recipes. Or you can just try using that recipe book you bought but never got to open. You can even bake some cakes with kids to keep engaged and spend some quality time with them.

Read- I’ve always loved reading but this hobby somehow took a backseat, with my personal and professional responsibilities taking up all my time. I’m using this lockdown as the opportunity for hunting down the old and new works of my favourite authors and reading them.

Movies- Now is the time to dig out the all-time favourites and the latest releases and catch up on the movies you have been missing. A cup of steaming hot coffee with homemade popcorn is all you would want for a perfect evening!

Exercise- Don’t forget your exercise routine! Try innovative indoor exercise techniques such as aerobics, yoga and tai-chi instead of the gym and morning jogs. After all, you wouldn’t want those extra pounds on when you get back to work.

Dance- And if you want to have fun while losing calories, try your favourite dance form. The best part is that you can involve your partner and rekindle your romance with this amazing pastime.

Hope these cool ideas will make the lockdown less stressful. Let’s stay healthy and think positive, this will pass too!

How To Manage Work And Kids Together when Working from Home

Every working mom and dad knows the challenges of managing work and kids together and the best part is that a majority of us do pretty well. But the sudden outbreak of coronavirus has made us question our capabilities as we struggle to align the work-at-home culture with unexpected school breaks. So the concern that almost every parent shares today relates to managing work and kids together as we get quarantined for at least a few weeks or even months ahead.

Here are some suggestions I have for work-at-home parents with kids of all ages.

Create and maintain schedules- It will keep you productive and sane and the kids will feel comfortable and normal as well.

Build a strategy with your partner- Don’t expect to handle the crisis by yourself, rather create a strategy with your partner. Consider working in shifts so that you can balance things as a team.

Communicate- You may be super-busy while working remotely but don’t miss out on communication with the children. Let them know you are always there for them, even when working on your full-time job.

Keep the kiddos engaged– Art and craft makes an ideal pastime for the younger ones, while you can find some good apps and games for the older children. Still, keep a check on their screen time.

Delegate- You can delegate the household chores to keep the kids busy and reduce your workload. Rewarding them for helping is a good way to keep them positive and motivated.

Find activities you can do together- Fun family activities like indoor games, preparing dinner together and yoga sessions every evening make a good idea.

Set boundaries- Set clear boundaries for your children and let them know you will be working from home just like you did from the office.

Try to have a separate work area- It would be great if you can allocate a work area away from where the kids spend most of their time. Ask them to stay out when you have a virtual meeting or conference call.

Take breaks and pamper yourself- Be sure to get breaks and spend time pampering yourself because you will need to recharge once in a while

Take one day as it comes- You will not feel stressed about the future as it is hard to predict how long it will last.

Most importantly, my advice is to be flexible and realize that you cannot be perfect in such an imperfect situation!

How To Have A Productive Day Working From Home

Though we may have all worked from home once or more, mandatory work-from-home has now taken us by surprise with the coronavirus crisis taking over the world. Being productive while working remotely can be challenging, with all kinds of distractions you have at home.

There are kids to handle, pets to look after, housework to do and a lot more to deal with. And sometimes, the vibe itself makes you feel off. Still, my personal experience says that achieving optimal productivity even while working from home is possible if you take the right approach. Some tips if you are trying to work from home, and either getting bored or losing spirit:

1. Have a Plan for the day – My tip is to do this the night before
2. Get started early, as it helps to get more out of the day.
3. Pretend like you are going into the office, dress up for those video conference calls as well.
4. Structure your day like you would in the office. You will definitely be at your productive best.
5. Choose a dedicated workspace; don’t try to work all day from bed because it makes you feel lazy.
6. Don’t stay at home all day. Go for a walk in your park or garden, step outside and breathe some fresh air.
7. Have social media interactions and online-only during free time as we have a tendency to watch and read the news or feeds and generally lose track of time.
8. Commit to doing more and use time wisely. You will actually end up doing more as you are saving time for regular commuting.
9. Work when you’re at your most productive. It could be in the early morning or late at night. I structure my day accordingly and keep my calls for the afternoon.
10. Use technology to stay connected with family, friends and teams.
11. Get kids into a schedule so your work plan can be managed with their schedule, though easier said than done.
12. Play some music in the background and work will be so much fun 😉
13. Take breaks after a long sitting and finish some household work in that break (like drying up laundry, washing dishes or chopping vegetables for dinner)
14. Spend some time with family and have fun. Take this as an opportunity to reboot.

Do share and let me know if you have any more tips and I will add them to the list with credits. Also, comment below if you want me to share more tips on anything else #workfromhometips

A Brilliant Breakfast Brunch at The Ivy, Birmingham

The Ivy, Birmingham opened its doors to food fanatics in April 2018 and has been delighting diners with its delicious fare ever since. Elegant, enticing, and exciting, the Ivy promises you a memorable dining experience, and in my opinion, it delivers far more than is expected.

I had been wanting to visit The Ivy Birmingham for a while, when last month, I was finally able to make it to Temple Row in the City Center where it’s located. We’d heard great reviews about the place and were looking forward to our first brunch meal here.

When we entered the restaurant, our first impression was of plush sophistication. Hues of orange and green are dominant in the décor, with beautiful Art Deco glass, muted lights, and interesting artwork adorning the walls. The 3-floors of The Ivy Birmingham are as much a tribute to great artistry as they are to gastronomy. Simply sitting in the pleasant ambiance was very invigorating; the sumptuous food, a big, big bonus.

We started our meal with a coffee since that’s the elixir that gets me up and going every day. My cappuccino was rich and satisfying, with the Ivy logo floating on the froth. We then moved on to the interesting offerings of the brunch menu which are served till 11.30 am Mon-Fri, and till 11 am on the weekend.

Here’s what we ordered: two juices, Beet It and Green Juice, one portion of Avocado, tomato, and sesame, which comes with poached hen’s eggs on toasted granary with sesame dressing and also the breakfast classic Eggs Benedict.

Beet It was a flavorsome concoction of beetroot, apple, lemon & ginger, while Green Juice had avocado, mint, celery, spinach, apple, and parsley. The juices were super-healthy and very refreshing, and if I’d had any more space left, I would’ve tried a few more juices from their enticing selection of fresh beverages.

The Avocado preparation had chopped avocado topped with roast plum tomatoes, a poached hen’s eggs and sesame dressing. The combination was complimentary and the preparation light, which made it a perfect brunch dish.

The Eggs Benedict came with pulled honey roast ham on toasted English muffins, two poached hen’s eggs with hollandaise sauce, and some watercress. I love this preparation since the eggs were cooked to perfection and the hollandaise sauce was flavoured just right.

To sum up the experience, I’d say it was fabulous beyond words. The selection of food at The Ivy Birmingham is a flawless balance of British classics and world cuisine. The ambiance and décor are spectacular, to say the least. The open, wide-spaced seating makes it a great place to host parties or enjoy a night out with friends or family. The staff is courteous and well-informed of the menu’s specifics. All these positives make me want to visit again, sometime soon.

I’ll probably head to The Ivy Birmingham again for another brunch with friends, or maybe even on date night!

6 Amazing Ways To Propose or Celebrate A Special Occasion

So you’ve been with your Significant Other for quite some time and want to take your relationship to the next level now? Or are looking for a brilliant idea to surprise her on a special occasion? Obviously, you would want to conjure up something memorable that would get you a definite “Yes” and give you moments to cherish as a couple. The best way to do is to think of a unique idea, something that is totally incredible yet touches her heart. Here are some ideas that you can consider to make the occasion super-special for your partner.

Take her on a limo ride

Let’s start with a luxurious ride in a limo. Make her feel like a queen as you book a plush limousine to pick her for a date. Have a bottle of wine ready as you pop up the big question to her. Take her to her favorite destination in town, dinner at a restaurant she loves or a bonfire by the riverside. She’ll probably remember this one as the ride of her life.

And what about a treasure hunt!

Plan an exciting treasure hunt for her and there are no guesses about what she’ll win in the end……of course, her engagement ring. Think of clues that are romantic and creative yet challenging enough to make her treasure worth all the efforts she makes. Include places that have been special to you through your journey as a couple.

Say it in the sky….literally

If your partner is an adventure freak, propose to her in the sky…….literally! Arrange a paragliding adventure for her and propose her just as you are ready to jump off. She’ll be on cloud nine even before her chute opens up. Another option for those with an adventure-loving partner is to say it while bungee jumping.

Experience luxury in the air

And if she loves flying the luxurious way, set up a luxury private jet flight to make the moment a special one. Create a complete experience for her with wine and dine. Try and search for the on-demand luxury experience that will surely impress her.

Glamping stay in a farm

And what if your SO is a nature lover but also appreciates fine things in life? Nothing will excite her more than being proposed while on a glamping stay in a farm. Spend a wonderful weekend exploring one of the best country locations together. A glamping stay would offer all the privacy you would want to celebrate this special occasion.

Candle-lit dinner at the beach

And if you are looking for an idea that doesn’t cost a fortune yet is good enough to impress her, invite her at a candle-lit dinner at the beach. Make big efforts on the small details like arranging her favorite food and drinks and having a musician play her favorite tune. She’ll surely be impressed.

Whichever idea you pick, make sure that it is just for her. Do what she would love because after all, she’s the one who deserves all the attention and love you can give!

Delicious Diet Foods – So Shape Making Dreams Come True!

I like to believe that I am maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but then fall off the fitness bandwagon sometimes. In fact, I often get queries from friends, family, and followers regarding the secret to my fitness. The answer is simple – I try to eat the right kind of food and add enough physical activity to my daily routine.

The next question I’m then asked is what it is that I’m eating. Well, let me introduce you to a healthy-eating option I recently discovered. A French Smart Meal brand called So Shape provides a range of easy-to-prep food options that are perfect for people like me who are always on-the-go.

So Shape has a simple food philosophy. Their meals are carefully created to optimize nutrient value and minimize calorie intake. The proposed method for getting the best out of So Shape is replacing your regular diet with 2 So Shape Smart Meals and one open, healthy lunch.

What I like about the So Shape way of eating is that it is sustainable. The main reason for this is that their meals are as delicious as they are healthy. Most attempts at dieting typically fail because you begin craving other tasty foods, all too soon. With So Shape Smart Meals, your cravings are taken care of because their preparations themselves are so tasty. Also, since they are nutrient-rich, you feel healthy, energetic, and satiated for longer.

I have tried their pancake mix and flavoured shakes so far. They were filling, delicious, and super-easy to make. The best part is, you have a whopping 22 options of Smart Meals to choose from. These include a wide variety of shakes, frappes, soups, and pasta, which allows you much flexibility regarding planning your meals. With So Shape Smart Meals, the likelihood of getting bored with eating the same bland food is very low.

Another thing to note about So Shape Smart Meals is that they have vegan and some gluten-free options as well. This feature gets them an extra thumbs-up from me because it can get very difficult to find vegan/gluten-free meals that do not require too much prepping.

If you’re wondering about the price-point, all meals are priced between £2.5-£3, which makes them affordable meal-replacement options. Apart from the Smart Meals, So Shape also has Smart Foods which are inherently healthy snacks you can have in-between meals. I think these Smart Foods are also a brilliant idea because unhealthy snacking is a habit that many people are guilty of.

So, if you are looking to transform your diet into nutrient-rich, low-calorie intake, and that too, in the least time/effort consuming way, So Shape Smart Meals can be your food angel. Have a go at it, and let me know if you enjoyed them as much as I did!

Use code ARCHANACUSTOM to save £9.50 and double flavours on the 14 & 28-day challenges
Store Link – https://uk.soshape.com/collections/challenges

Last minute Valentine’s gift Ideas for the Man in Your Life

Valentine’s is the time of the year when you celebrate love. Now is the time to express your love for that special someone. And what could make them feel more special than gifting them something that they would cherish! Finding a perfect gift for V-Day, however, is not an easy task. You have to look for something that gives expression to your feelings, yet is of practical use and fits your budget. Moreover, it gets even confusing to find the perfect gift for that perfect someone. Here we are helping you find such perfect gift for the man in your life.

Roses/Flowers: Someone great said, a flower cannot blossom without sunshine. Similarly, a man cannot live without love. This Valentine’s, get your man feel special with a beautiful bouquet of flowers; roses would be perfect for this season as they speak the language of love.

Chocolates: Let your man savour your love with a box of his favourite chocolates. This is perhaps the sweetest gesture you can make to express your feelings towards your partner and it would definitely not pinch your pocket. And the two of you could surely have a special evening sharing the heavenly temptation!

Male Grooming Kit/ Travel Toiletry Bag: If you are looking to present him something that is practical, a grooming kit makes a great idea. You could opt for a travel pack if your man is an adventure freak. He would definitely be impressed with this thoughtful gift idea.

Gadgets: Today, gadgets are a craze and your man might be one of those who loves to own the latest ones. If your man is a gadget enthusiast, then you could gift him an iPhone or a branded watch this Valentine’s Day. It will always remind him of you and he’ll feel your presence even in your absence.

Branded Bags: This Valentine’s, you need not struggle with a gift idea as you can present him a branded bag! A stylish office bag works as a perfect option for a man who wants to flaunt his presence at work. If he’s a regular at the gym, buy him a nice gym bag.

Wine/Whiskey: Surely, your love will be enough to intoxicate him but you could take him higher this Valentine’s with a bottle of his favourite brand of wine or whiskey. And could there be a better way to spend the evening with him than enjoying your drinks together!

Wallet: Another cool Valentine’s gift idea for the man in your life is a branded wallet. This gift is a great way to stay with him, in his pocket all the time. It would make a nice surprise to slip in your picture into the wallet so that it brings a smile for him when he opens it up.

Cufflinks: So your soulmate has all the gadgets and you want to give him something lasting instead of flowers, wine, or chocolates? A pair of designer cufflinks would be an amazing V-Day gift for a man who has a discerning taste in accessories. Look for a stylish pair that matches his taste and makes him proud of your choice.

Clothes & Accessories: A simple yet thoughtful gift choice for your partner for this Valentine season is a new jumper of his favourite brand. A cap or scarf would be an apt choice if you are not really sure of his size.

Experience Dates: He’s been treating you with romantic evenings all year and now it’s your turn to surprise him with one. What about something unique like a bungee jumping, river rafting or racing car driving experience? The fact that the two of you will be together will make the experience even racier!!

Whatever gift you choose for your loved one, it should be heartfelt, even if it is not expensive and chosen at the last minute. Something thoughtful, something that expresses your feelings, something that would touch him and express how special he is for you…..Go ahead, make this Valentine’s Day the best one for your love!!

Healthy Food Habits to Start the New Year

2018 is here and it’s time to make sure our resolutions are followed through. There might be a long list to consider, but one thing that everyone wants to make sure is to be healthier and happier in the year to come. When it comes to being healthier, a lot depends on the kind of food you eat and the lifestyle you follow. So if you are looking to revamp your food habits in the next year, here are a few tried and tested tips I would recommend:

Pack variety in your daily diet

The best way to give yourself a kick start in the New Year is to pack variety in your daily diet. Balance your nutrients, with plenty of protein and vitamins, healthy carbs, and minerals in your daily menu. I suggest at least five servings of fresh fruits and veggies in a day, with precedence to high-antioxidant sources such as berries and leafy greens. Look for some colour in your plate as coloured foods are high in anti-oxidants.

Be selective with your fats

Who says that fats are always unhealthy!! Learn to differentiate between “good” fat and “bad” fat so that you can be selective. I have experienced the difference after switching over to the healthier options such as olive oil and coconut oil. Omega-3s are the healthiest form that you can get from sardines, salmon, walnuts and almonds. On the other hand, keep away from processed foods that are high in unhealthy trans-fats.

Start the day with a healthy breakfast

If you have been ditching your breakfast in the last year, it’s time to start having a hearty one now. Believe me, you are not doing any favour to yourself by missing your daily bowl of cereal. A full breakfast keeps you satiated and gives you all the energy you need through the day. At the same time, it prevents hunger pangs, which is great news for weight-watchers.

Go low on sugar and salt

This year, cut down on your sugar and salt intake so that you can curb weight gain and bloating. This healthy habit can also alleviate the risk of chronic health issues such as diabetes and hypertension too. Substitute this with healthier options such as honey, rock salt and spices. Try out healthier recipes with these healthier ingredients and who knows, you may come up with a stellar one!

Be generous with water

And, the best resolution that you can make for a healthier 2018, is to increase your daily water intake to at least 10 glasses. Water is a superb natural detoxifying agent and does wonders for your digestion, skin, hair, and the entire body. Opt for water instead of drinking energy drinks, flavoured juices and sodas. Warm water after meals makes a great way to digest food faster and easier.

Aren’t these food habits simple to adopt? Yes, they are and most amazingly, the changes they can bring are really, really effective. And most importantly, combine them with regular exercise and healthy lifestyle to have a great year 2018.

Digital Detox: How Important It Is To De-addict?

Digital Detox: Why I chose to disconnect with the phone and connect with life?

How hard it is to imagine life without our smartphones, isn’t it? Now that a majority of us are hooked to them, there seems hardly a waking (perhaps, even sleeping) moment that we can keep away. Let’s admit it- we are addicted and there are verified stats that establish this fact. Surveys have reported that an average person checks the phone almost 200 times a day, which comes to once in about every 6.5 minutes! And surprisingly, 1 in 4 people spend more time online than they do asleep.

Digital detox is a term that has been coined to explain the journey that takes people away from their smartphones, back to their real connections. Recently, I read the book “OFF” by Tanya Goodin that inspired me to try a detox on myself. Amazingly, as I decided to unplug for a few hours in a day, it felt like reclaiming my own life. Now that I have experienced the healing effects of digital detox, here are a few tips I have to share for those looking to purge their lives from the deadly smartphone effect:

Start small: Since keeping your smartphone away seems so impossible, I suggest that you try starting small. Ditching the screen for the night at least or having a phone-free weekend, are a few good ideas. Or you can simply try to increase the gap between your “back to phone” moments.

De-clutter your phone: Uninstall all the apps that keep you stuck to your phone. A majority of us are habitual to going back to the phone time and again to check our social media accounts. I cant recommend deleting them as I am blogger myself but following some social media free time and keeping the addictiveness in control is very important

Practice self-discipline: There is a need to practice self-discipline, overcome the temptation and stick to the detox plan. Countries like Japan encourage digital detox by conducting special tours where people are supposed to relinquish their devices before starting a nature walk.

Involve others: Have a detox buddy or get the entire family to take the digital detox plan. This brings people closer, as they can connect with each other rather than be glued to their device screens even when out for dinners or in social gatherings.

Keep them out of sight: The best way is to keep your smartphone out of sight so that it gets out of mind. And you can share an alternative way to get in touch if someone might need to get in touch “just in case”.

Don’t these simple tricks make digital detox sound easier? Believe me, they do make it easier! As we step into the New Year, let’s all make the resolution to try these so that we can disconnect and get connected with life once again.

Harvey Nichols and Mailbox Experience in Birmingham

The next you find yourself in Birmingham, I highly recommend that you visit The Mailbox. To call the Mailbox a ‘shopping centre’ or a ‘neighbourhood mall’ is an absolute understatement. The Mailbox is a destination in its own right, combining world-class lifestyle, shopping, hospitality, culinary and entertainment experiences under one roof. Not only does it offer something that everyone can look forward to; it is also situated by the canals of the city centre – a fantastic location which is bustling with activity and energy in the evening. Other shopping and business districts such as Grand Central, New Street, High Street, Corporation Street and Brindleyplace are all close-by, less than a ten-minute walk away, so you can really make a day out of it.

The entire experience is made even more seamless by The Mailbox application for mobile phones, which enables users to gain access to exclusive discounts, restaurant reservations and pre-orders. Better yet, the more that you engage with the application, the more personalised your experience at The Mailbox becomes. What more does a girl need?

One of my favourite stores at The Mailbox is undoubtedly Harvey Nichols, which feels like a destination within a destination. In true Harvey Nichols style, the store at The Mailbox offers a luxury shopping experience that is difficult to replicate. Not only does it showcase some of the best brands in fashion, beauty, food and wine (some of which are exclusive to this particular store); it also amps up the retail experience with thoughtful touches across the space, such as the beauty rooms where one can take a break and indulge in a relaxing treatment, and the expert Style Concierge team who can help you find and style some of the season’s hottest trends in fashion and beauty.

If you’re a foodie, you should definitely make time to explore the wonders that you can find at the Harvey Nichols Food Market, which houses a specially-selected collection of fine foods. Stock up on everything from delectable chocolates for the holiday season to healthy treats for January, and from difficult-to-find ingredients to wines from across the world. It is truly an adventure!

And when you get tired of the shopping and the munchies kick in, you can take a seat at the in-store restaurant and treat yourself to some delicious food from a menu that has been specially curated by the Michel-star chef Glynn Purnell. The first thing that stands out about the restaurant is the atmosphere – it feels premium yet homely and upscale yet approachable, with modern décor and a cosy feel that is difficult to achieve in such a high-end, stylish setting. And of course, the food is absolutely on point as well, featuring fresh ingredients (many of which are sourced locally) that give rise to exquisitely fresh flavours. Whether you want to stop by for an afternoon tea with some scones, or have a full-fledged meal with close friends or family, the restaurant is the cherry on top when it comes to the Harvey Nichols at The Mailbox experience – you don’t want to miss out on this!

Christmas Gift Guide : The Ultimate Guide on What to Buy

As said, Christmas is a season not only for rejoicing but of reflection. Finding a perfect gift for Christmas is not an easy task. However, the best of all gifts around any Christmas tree is the presence of a happy family, all sitting together and ejoying the holidays. Happiness is certainly the best gift you can give to someone. And, here we enlist a few ideas for Christmas gifts, which can definitely bring happiness to your friends and families.

MAKEUP & SKINCARE & MAKEUP TOOLS

Makeup Gift Sets: Makeup is just like a best friend for her. For the occasion of Christmas, the list is endless. However, we suggest you give a Spa Find and Dead Sea Spa Magik. This year they have launched 6 gift sets which allows you to take the benefits of each product from the comfort of your home. Out of 6. Pamper and Sparkle set are a special range for incredible skin care. (Link)

Lipstick is a pretty start. Then, why not Stila Stay All Day Lipstick Set that gives a matte finish. It comes in three beautiful pink colours and berry toned lip colours. (Link)
Price: £20

Candles & Skincare: Your beautiful skin requires commitment and one candle can light thousands of candles. Crabtree & Evelyn giving you the opportunity to buy both from one place ranging from affordable to luxurious products, they have endless options. Select the best one for yourself. (link)

Eyeshadow Palletes: And again eyeshadows are perfect for this Christmas occasion. Such a colourful gift that adds youth and allures the beauty of a woman. We suggest you gift MakeUp Revolution- My Sign Eye Palette. They have 15 shades that add shimmer and gives you perfect eye look. (link)
Price: £6

Do you also love those neutral matte shades? Urban Decay’s Naked Palette is a generously perfect choice which gives glittery pigments and also adds shine to your skin. (link)

Anti- Ageing Cleansing Brush: Ageing is a fact of life. But, Looking your age is not. Sensee have the perfect range of anti-ageing cleansing brush that can be used on a regular basis. It can help in reducing wrinkles and thereby giving you perfect smooth skin. (link)
Price: £39.00

Affirm your style statement with Essentialle
REMEDY MULTI-ACTIVE RE-BALANCING FACE OIL: This can be used in daily use to fight with oily skin and problematic skin. This one can be perfect and a very beneficial gift. (link)
Price: £62.00
REVIVAL NECTAR NOURISHING FACE OIL: Gift them this wonderful oil that can help them in restoring their skin’s hydration and in getting that nourished glow back. (link)
Price:£70.00

Hair Curler Curls run the world. We all want easier curling with lesser strain and HOT TOOLS® PROFESSIONAL launches first of its kind 24k gold angled CurlBar is the perfect solution in this case. (link)
Price: £100.00

Spa Day Voucher: Relax, indulge and love yourself or give this voucher to your loved ones. Spoil yourself with Spa.

Makeup Brushes: There’s no such thing as having too much of makeup brushes. SoEco Brush would be a great idea as it is not just facing friendly but eco-friendly too. You must get this. At a very minimum price, you get branded brush sets. (link)
Price: £18.00

Perfume: Perfume is the key to our memory. Though invisible, yet an unforgettable accessory that she will never forget. Add glamour with this amazing Jimmy Choo rose Gold edition perfumes. (link)
Price: £54.00

Urban Veda Gift Sets: Nature is the perfect way to help your skin. Gift your loved ones this amazing set of Natural Skincare by Urban Veda. Give them a reason to remember you. (link)

CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES

Jewellery: This one is a sure shot winner when it comes to gifts, once can never have too much of jewellery be it necklaces, pendant, rings or bracelet. Featured here is Under the Rose Jewellery Rose Gold Thread Wrap Bracelet, a sure shot winner. (link)

Pj Sets: At the end of the day, Pajamas are a good option and are good for the soul. As everything is better in pyjamas. Then, why not gift them a beautiful pair of pyjamas. make them feel a little more comfortable and better. (link)

Winter Cute Slippers: Good Footwear leads you to good ways. Winters are the time when you can gift your loved ones an amazing pair of footwear or a cute slipper. Check out Fatface and select from an amazing range of footwears from there. (link)

Socks: Who doesn’t want a new pair of socks for the Christmas? Henry J Socks would be our suggestion. “The gift that keeps on giving.” What could be better than that? (link)

Watches: Time is the most precious thing you can ever gift to someone. If you are unable to give them time, try gifting them a watch as a symbol of your time. Accurist have a special range of watches for both him and her. They are great as they add a touch of understated glamour to anyone’s Winter Wardrobe. (link)

HOMEWARE:
Phillo Flowers Wreath and Candle: Phillo Flowers specialize in beautiful flowers and also design customized wreath for special occasions like Christmas. They also provide a free consultation. Give them this wonderful piece of decoration and make them feel your presence in their homes. (link)

T2 Tea: Festive Time is the perfect time to connect with your friends and nature. Celebrate the hidden flavours and patterns in the outside world. Wild about Green Rose Gift Pack from T2 Tea is a glory in itself with pretty floral flavours. (link)
Price: £30

Aequill Candles: A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. And gifting Aequill candle is such a pretty idea. They make such handcrafted candles and for the candle making is much more than a art. Light a candle for someone and give them this amazing candle. (Link)

These are the few things I’d suggest to you all. You may select either of them or even think more. So, what will you gift to your near and dear ones? Let me know in the comments section below.

Drayton Manor Park Day Out

Summers are the best spent outdoors. Enjoying the sunshine, great weather and packing a picnic for a day out in the park are things I thoroughly enjoy. There are a lot of parks in and around UK where you can spend an entire day with your friends and family. I love spending time with my family. A popular hit with my kid is the Drayton Manor Park. The major attraction for him was the Thomas Land which usually runs between March and October. Thomas Land has over 25 attractions like the runaway coaster for the thrill seekers and the Terence’s Driving School for your little car fan. Your little Thomas can spend some time with his other friends Percy, Rosie and more. My son loves the Thomas Tank Engine.

The park has several other fun-filled family attractions for everyone. You can take a flight on Maelstrom and Air Race or get your adrenaline pumping up at the Shockwave roller coaster or make your heart skip a beat at the Apocalypse, a 54m drop tower.

If you are someone you enjoy a slower pace then you can enjoy a stroll in the 15-acre zoo and spend some time with animals like Sumatran Tigers and Meerkats from all around the world. You can even take your child on a magical ride to the Island of Sodor.

Apart from these attractions they even have a range of workshops, events and activities planned for the whole family. Whether you love dinosaurs or are passionate about science. The Drayton Manor Park has attractions which are engaging and enjoyable by all. You can even spend a weekend with your family and get away from the busy city life. The park has a 4 star Drayton Manor Hotel with 150 rooms, 2, bars and restaurants. We went to the park on a bank holiday weekend which was very busy. They were able to accommodate 12000 people on that day. But the best part was the extended hours. We all had a lot of fun. I let out the inner child in me and enjoyed without any inhibitions on several rides. I really recommend the roller coaster and Thomas Train. It’s a great day out in a short distance from Birmingham.

I love to enjoy my day out in comfortable clothing as I have to keep up with my kid. I wore ripped crop jeans and a distressed top. I paired the outfit with a denim jacket. Denim is back with a bang and it’s very comfortable and perfect for summer weathers. I knotted the top on one side for a sporty look. Last but not the least when you know you are going to be walking a lot there is nothing better than sneakers to style your outfit.

Outfit Details:

Have you ever been to the Drayton Manor Park? What’s your favourite attraction? Let me know in the comments below.

Beach Holiday Essentials – What to Pack Series

Summers are the perfect time to travel and being a travel addict that I am, I make it a point to travel as often as I can. It helps me relax and rejuvenate myself and one of my favorite travel spots is a beach. It’s one of the best escapes from the city life.

If you are also planning your next beach getaway, get ready for the sun, sand, and the sea with this is a cheat beach sheet for a great holiday by the shore. This holiday tip list is something unique and personal. It has been developed over a period of time from all the lessons I have learned from all the different holidays I have been on. So read on and get ready to book your tickets, pack your bags and make memories of a lifetime this holiday season.

One of the sacred things on a beach holiday is your sunscreen. It’s the one thing you cannot avoid. Take care of your skin when sunbathing for perfect tan lines.
Sunrays and UV rays are harmful. Sunscreen by itself isn’t just enough to protect you. Carry a big floppy hat to cover yourself from the sun and look stylish at the same time. It’s also helpful if you are having a bad hair day because of the humidity.
A dip in the blue waters is one of the things I look forward to the most when on a beach holiday. I always take more than one pair of bikini or swimsuit as I get bored wearing the same one. Plus I don’t have to worry about getting it dirty in the sand.
Also, carry a few stylish cover-ups for when it’s sunny. You can layer it over your bikini top and shorts when walking around the hotel lobby or on the beach.
Go short this summer and pack a few short and flowy dresses. Remember to keep it light and comfortable.
Protect your hair from the damage of the harmful sun rays and the sea water by carrying a humid protection and sun SPF protection spray.
Catch up on some reading. Carry a novel or a book to read while you relax on the beach.
When it comes to makeup, carry only basic products. Use a tinted moisturizer instead of a foundation. They are lighter in texture and more effective for the weather.
Say no to a highlighter and it gives you a very unnatural look in the pictures when in the sun.
Use a bronzer as a blush and contour for a natural sunkissed glow.
Keep your skin smooth and don’t forget to moisturize it after salt exposure.
Last but not the least don’t forget to enjoy the view you’ve traveled for and go offline. Get a digital detox on a vacation by switching off from your social media channels.

What are the basic tips you always follow on your vacation? Share your beach holiday tips with me in the comments below.

Top 6 Pregnancy Cravings

Food cravings during pregnancy are very common. They differ from normal cravings as they are much stronger. These cravings are uncertain and unpredictable. You may get a craving at 3 am for something that you have not eaten for months.

So, when do pregnancy cravings begin? In some cases, it begins as early as the second or third week of pregnancy. Usually, it becomes challenging around the 11^th week as your baby is growing.

Here is a list of the Top 6 pregnancy food cravings that most women get:

Pickle

You may have heard of many women craving pickles during pregnancy. The sour and tangy flavour is what pregnant women love. Pickle cravings suggest that your body requires sodium. Your body’s sodium requirement goes up due to the increase in blood volume. Giving in to this craving helps you fight nausea.

Chocolates

Who doesn’t love chocolates!? Chocolate makes you happy. A chocolate craving indicates low magnesium levels. You may have green vegetables or beans to boost magnesium in your body. If you cannot resist the temptation, then eat dark chocolate as it is rich in antioxidants.

Cheese

Any dish becomes incomplete without extra cheese! You crave cheese when your body asks for calcium. Indulging cheese cravings occasionally is not a problem. Opt for low-fat cheese if you are concerned about your weight. Alternatively, try other calcium-rich items like milk, yogurt, or broccoli.

Ice cream

Many pregnant women love chilled, flavoured ice cream. Ice cream craving indicates low calcium levels. Enjoy a low-fat vanilla flavoured frozen yogurt topped with fresh fruits instead of an ice cream.

Spicy food

Cravings chillies, hot curries, or spicy foods mean your body needs to cool down. Spicy foods make you sweat and help your body cool down. Adding a little spice to your foods is not harmful, but watch out for the quantity as it may lead to heartburn or indigestion.

Fruits

Craving fruits indicate that your body is demanding Vitamin C. It is a healthy craving. Eat cooling and refreshing fruits like watermelon and grapes. However, do not eat fruits in large quantities to keep your blood sugar level in check.

Apart from all this, you may also crave some non-food items like chalk, dirt, or clay because of the hormonal changes. Do not give in to these cravings as it may harm you and your baby. Apart from these, you may observe various other food cravings during pregnancy that are very common among pregnant women.

For tricks to manage food cravings, you may browse through Pampers India. Pampers is dedicated to the care of you and your baby. It will show you the right direction on what is good and bad for the two of you.