Long Distance Relationships | yahoo.com

Let's be honest. Given a choice, I would never pick a long distance relationship. I mean, what's the point? Like Deepika says in Love Aaj Kal,
"Kya fayda? Relationship ke jo achche things hai woh nahin."
(What's the point? The benefits of a relationship aren't present.)

And yet, I guess long distance relationships do happen. No one gets into one for the sheer joy of it. It's practical (like the movie says) and we live in a world of super-pragmatism.

Anurag Kashyap makes an interesting observation (in his commentary of Dev D - quoted in context only, not words).

"In that time, people used to write letters to and wait for months to hear from each other. In this day and age, they talk every day, they chat and email. They are a part of each other's lives. They are emotionally connected. So the frustration is just physical."



Interesting point that. It isn't just the sexual deprivation while being completely fulfilled on all the other fronts. There is that loss of a tangibleness in the relationship. For a hardcore sentimentalist like me, I wonder where's the romance in memories of emails and phone conversations?

There is that sense of incompleteness, from not really knowing what the other person looks like, at the point of time. Is he smiling, does she incline her head to one side when I say her name? Even more, in detail, I can explain the delicious aroma of the samosas frying next door but can he really grasp the entirety of what I'm saying? Does,

"I'd love to be sharing them with a hot cup of tea with you on a day like this?"

..even begin to cut it? Truly, a look is worth a thousand words and more. There is so much that words can't say, after all, that my eyes can.

Which brings me to think about the last time I had a long-distance relationship. I think the biggest problem with it, was that you may still be able to sustain a relationship long distance. But to build a relationship long distance...that just seems impossible to me now.

I think what also happens is that one tends to overcompensate for the lack of physical proximity with an extra serving of emotional intimacy. For what else is our compulsive social networking, our minute-to-minute status updates? We miss the physical company of other people and probably we are all such a lonely generation that we wander into the excess of forced emotional closeness.

To come back to the long distance relationship, I must admit that there is also something vaguely appealing about it, in equal measure. There is the convenience and practicality masquerading as ‘respect for the other person's choices'.

There is the supposed trust and comfort levels that we associate with being able to have a relationship with two physical addresses. Perhaps it is true that some measure of trust does exist but in today's day of disposable relationships and where marriage itself is an ambiguous term, I think it is largely about shutting your eyes to what you don't want to face. Somehow a relationship whose manifestations are no more than an email inbox and a mobile phone just seem easier to shut away or even ignore. What can be more attractive to a generation of people hungover on choices and control?

There is a certain romanticization too, of the other person, of the special bond etc. But when it comes down to it, people are just people; it is our individual experiences with them that make them special to us. And there is that indefinable something that draws us to a particular person and not another. I'm just saying that we're ignoring that altogether in a long-distance relationship.

It's like perfume. There's no point trying to describe it, you just have to get close and smell it to know what it's like.

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Are you Sexless in the city

ARNOLD Schwarzenegger blamed it all on his sexless marriage to Maria Shriver, never mind the fact that his ‘sexless marriage’ fetched him four kids. But Schwarzenegger's plight surely evoked sympathy, secretly at least, among many a married couples in India, who have been dragging their sexless marriages for years.

Experts caution that the number of couples in such marriages is on the rise and it’s no more uncommon to find couples who haven’t even consummated their marriage and reach out to a counsellor for help. Garima and Ritesh Jain (names changed) are one such example.

On the outside, they seem to have everything going for them. Both husband and wife in their thirties hold plum posts in multinational companies, but the fat pay cheques they get at the end of each month haven’t been able to fill the void in their eight-year-old marriage.

"My husband was unable to perform in the bed. Soon after the marriage we tried several times, but somehow we weren't able to consummate the marriage. And then somehow we got busy with our lives," says Garima. At one point of time, the couple wanted to separate. "I went back to live with my family, but they insisted I go back and carry on with the marriage. That's when we decided to see a counsellor," says Garima.

Their counsellor, Dr Aruna Broota, told us living in sexless marriages is an emerging trend – something that she had to deal with all the time. "Indian society is very rigid, and this couple did not want to separate because of social shame and economic insecurity. We are governed by very conservative social norms and people live in loveless sexless marriages without letting it be known," says Dr Broota.



DRAGGING ON
THE STORY of Garima and Ritesh finds echoes in a website called the experienceproject.com. The website allows people to post their experiences in certain situations and have a section for people in sexless marriages.
Here’s what a woman called Mrs India wrote: "I had an arranged marriage 15 years ago. I was too scared to leave because I didn't know where to go if I did leave. I knew that I wouldn't be happy back at my parents so I stayed. My marriage was sexless from the start. I initiated it every time, and noticed he never made a move. I blamed it on his family because we lived with his parents. When we moved to our house away from his parents it was still the same, but I was still in denial. I thought it would be better if we had kids. I literally forced him to have sex with me so that I could get pregnant. I sobbed my heart out afterwards because I felt so ugly and unwanted." Mrs India did get pregnant, but her husband didn't care much about her pregnancy.

She further writes: “My marriage is not just sexless, it’s emotionless too. The only time I saw any emotion was when I told him I was leaving him. I feel ugly and dead inside and it’s frustrating when others that don’t know my situation tell me how pretty I am and how lucky my husband is."

SEXLESS AND LOVING IT
THERE are several people who go on living a farce in the name of a marriage due to societal pressure and the stigma attached to the D-word (divorce).

But there’s another breed of couples which is quite happy with an asexual arrangement. “For them marriage is more about companionship than sexual pleasure,” says Jitendra Nagpal, senior consultant psychiatrist, VIMHANS.

“These couples are emotionally interested in each other. But they are somehow jolted from slumber, when they are pressured by their families to produce off-springs,” he says.
MARRIAGE BREAKERS
THIS impatient generation has also given birth to another breed that believes in calling the marriage off at the drop of a hat. “They are very bold and vocal about it.

There are women who openly say that my husband has a very low libido and is unable to perform. People belonging to this category head straight to the court,” says Nagpal adding that being so vocal about once sex life may not be that great a virtue.

“It is difficult for a man to admit that he has a low libido. Female counsellors have a tough time in counselling such men. And that’s why it is important for a male counsellor to be present during the counselling session,” he adds.

WHAT STATS SAY
ON AN average Nagpal has to deal with at least two to three such cases every week. “Over the past 10 years the number of couples seeking counselling for sexless marriages has increased fivefolds,” says Nagpal.

About 80 per cent cases are because couples are unable to take out time for sex.

And about 10-15 per cent of the couples actually have problems because of certain lifestyle disorders such as smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction, and obesity.

But the most important factor that leads to sexless marriages is the concept of sexuality.

“Sex is not all about that threeminute act. There’s more to it. Sex is taken for granted just like, exercise, diet, hygiene and sleep. Because of their ‘busy’ lives, people compromise on these factors. It is ironical that animals are still enjoying their lives by taking these things seriously,” says Nagpal.

It has become monotonous, boring and predictable for most urban couples.



Romance is an important part of sexual health, but sadly it has gone missing in most modern marriages. Dr Kamal Khurana, relationsh counsellor, Purple Alley, blames it on the taboo attached to sex in India.

“Women here are not much informed about sex and men derive most of their knowledge from porn,” he says. “Of course there is a mismatch. I know of a woman married to a sex fiend who abused her for 10 years. She hated having sex with him. Such a marriage is equal to a sexless marriage because there is no emotional bond,” says Khurana.

The woman finally found that missing emotional quotient outside her marriage and sought for a divorce.

A sexless marriage can lead to different psychological disorders. Dr Broota cautions that it leads to depression, sudden anger outbursts, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

“It also leads to several other phobias. A person in such a marriage might be scared of going into an elevator, for instance,” explains Broota.

PRESCRIPTIONS


The brain is said to be the biggest sex organ. And so experts prescribe a long-term therapy session for couples in sexless marriages.

Dr Khurana believes in forging a bond of friendship between the husband and the wife. “They should first become friends and learn to trust each other and then we ask them to start hugging and kissing each other. It is a very long-term process.”

Nagpal says that couples should compliment each other at least once a day, instead of ticking each-other off.

“It also helps in recalling the pleasurable moments you might have enjoyed in the past. It can act as a booster for sex." Remaining asexual in a marriage is a personal choice. But dragging a sexless marriage is not very wise.

Seek the help of a counsellor or a sexologist in case you are sexless in the city and not particularly happy about it.

more information yahoo.co.in

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Men fashion

The change of season calls not only for lighter fabrics and abbreviated hems but for a reconsideration of one’s grooming practices too. Whether it’s a sunscreen with enough SPF to withstand the summer’s harsh rays or a simple update of hairstyle, a change to your regimen can be as refreshing as a new pair of shorts. Modeled on the season’s It boys — who themselves reflect the wide spectrum of male beauty today — these tips and trends will help you embrace the transition effortlessly. Go to interactive feature >>

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How to Shop a Flea

Alex Bell and Shira Entis know their fleas, from Elephant’s Trunk in Connecticut to Portobello Market in London. Which you would expect from the girls who started the awesome line of handbags and totes called Fleabags.

“We’ve been lovers of flea markets forever,” Bell says. “When I met Shira at Brown University, we bonded over great market deals.” Currently, their favorite markets are Chelsea’s on 25th street and that up-and-coming hidden gem Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market (406 West 39th Street) on Saturdays. As quasi professionals, however, they never venture forth without a game plan, which includes the following advice:


1. Keep your eye on the ball. “We try to talk beforehand and focus ourselves a little bit,” Entis says. Markets are open on various days, but the girls prefer Saturdays (the most vendors turn out) and suggest arriving when the gates open (usually around 9 a.m.). Most important, know what you’re looking for before you get there.

2. Weather makes all the difference. “On a cold or cloudy day, fewer vendors set up,” Bell says. “That means there are fewer shoppers too. So, the vendors there are more likely to make a deal. One of Shira’s most successful excursions happened at the outdoor Chelsea flea on a cold and windy day. Only three vendors made it out and because Shira was their only customer she walked away with a huge box of YSL blouses and antique brocade fabrics. Great finds!”

3. Your outfit might, too. “When marketing outside of the city, we try not to look like New Yorkers,” Entis says. “Especially no jewelry!” When you are in Manhattan, the jig is usually up and vendors know a tourist from a seasoned shopper a mile away. Dress casual and for comfort. You don’t have to prove anything about your vintage know-how.

4. Let them do the talking: “Being coy is the name of the game,” Bell says. “No one is going to give you a deal if they think you’re going to turn around and sell it on eBay. But on the flip side, don’t be naïve.” It’s O.K. to eventually let them know you know Balenciaga from Target and that you’re not going to get pushed around.

5. It’s O.K. to be thrifty: “We rarely spend more than $100 during the entire day,” Entis says. “And, we always have a good bartering session with the vendors,” Bell adds. Entis scored a vintage Chanel jacket for $40, and Bell found a pair of new Oscar de la Renta heels for $15 at the Chelsea flea. “If you are buying multiple items, they’ll usually give you a better deal rather than just buying one item,” says Bell, who along with Entis stocked up on military blankets from vendors for their fall 2011 collection.

6. Go with a friend: “We like to help each other,” Entis says. And what’s more fun than shopping with a friend?

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Advice for women | Yoga is useful for women with breast cancer | Yoga works wonders for women with breast cancer

For women with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy, yoga offers unique benefits beyond fighting fatigue, according to new research.
While simple stretching exercises improved fatigue, patients who practiced yogic breathing, postures, meditation and relaxation techniques as part of their treatment plan experienced improved physical functioning, better general health and lower stress hormone levels.
They also were better able to find meaning in their cancer experience, the study done at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has found. The research was conducted in collaboration with Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana ( SVYAS) in Bangalore.

 Patients from different hospitals including the Bangalore Institute of Oncology come to the institute, said N V Raghuram of SVYAS. The study assessed yoga's benefits to cancer patients, compared with a control group. "The combination of mind and body practices that are part of yoga clearly have tremendous potential to help patients manage the psychosocial and physical distress associated with treatment and life after cancer, beyond the benefits of simple stretching," said Cohen.
During the study, at one, three and six months after radiation therapy, women who practiced yoga during the treatment period reported greater benefits. Women who practiced yoga also had the steepest decline in their cortisol ( stress hormone) across the day, indicating that yoga had the ability to regulate this stress hormone. Cancer is a fight within the cells of the body and the yogic method reduces the restlessness that results from it, Raghuram explained.

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Style it up with scarves | Yahoo.com

I tend to look at clothes as ‘foundation' for a look. The accessories are what really turn an outfit into a complete look with a unique style. Through my college years, my accessory mania took the form of jewelery, ranging from earrings to medallions, necklaces, anklets, rings and belts. When I started working, most of it had to be put away as it was too funky/ impractical/ irreverent/ inappropriate for office wear.
That's when I discovered another accessory - a simple length of cloth. It started with knotting a colourful scarf around my neck to break up the monotony of my office garb of drab shirt and grey trousers. That's when the world of folds, drapes, knots and related appointments like brooches & pins opened up to me.
Salwar-kameezes found a place in my wardrobe around the same time and from that direction, I came to the Indian version of scarves. Dupattas, such an integral part of Indian dressing, lend themselves to so many ways of wear, spanning the range from flirty to pragmatic, modest to seductive and accessorial to pragmatic. They add character to the clothes you wear.
Call it a stole, call it scarf or a bandana or a dupatta, the versatility of an extra piece of cloth cannot be emphasized enough. I love mixing up the conventional and this accessory allows me the freedom to do so without stumbling into inappropriate. For a bohemian look, I sometimes sport a regular cotton dupatta as a stole. What is usually known as a stole can be creatively knotted and fluffed up the front of a plain tee-shirt to make a fancy yoke. At the very least, a severe formal look can be offset by a soft, feminine (and saucy) scarf. While travelling around a polluted city, a scarf is a great way to keep the dust off your face and your hair, tangle-free.


The most common ways that I see people wear scarves are:
The Headscarf: Fold a square scarf in a triangle, place on head and knot under neck. An import from rural Europe, this style has gotten associated with fever patients in urban Indian.
The Dangling Neckpiece: Loop a narrow, rectangular scarf over neck. Tie once and fasten with pin in the middle of the front. This style is most commonly seen on the uniforms of the service sector, especially airlines.
The Noose: Looped tight around neck and hung down the front or the back. Most chiffon/slippery fabric dupattas are worn this way, presumably because it is the only practical way to. This style doesn't do anything by way of modesty, grace or aesthetics for the outfit.
The Off-Shoulder Drooper: Very popular when the dupatta is the focus of the outfit because of its embroidery or other work, this is worn loosely draped over one shoulder/arm. It serves well to showcase the dupatta but often gets in the way or falls off during regular activity. I think it's best suited to a mannequin.
The Modest V: Each end thrown over one shoulder, the front pulled down to cover the torso. This is the most modest style I've seen and it finds great favour with the more conservative of my family members. For all its shapelessness, I think it still adds an element of grace and feminity to the otherwise straight lines of the salwar-kameez.
The Dhavani/ Odhni of a lehenga-choli: This outfit is rapidly going extinct, except for ceremonial occasions. There, the northern/western versions of draping over one shoulder and tucking into the lehenga seemed to be most popular. The southern version of mimicking a saree palluv (drape across torso for maximum coverage and tuck other end into lehenga/ pavadai) doesn't seem to find as much favour.
The Elbow Drape: Popularised by prime time Hindi soap operas, this style involves draping the dupatta over each elbow, leaving the ends hanging alongside the lehenga and the middle forming a triangle down the wearer's lower back. I don't like this style too much since it necessarily involves holding one's arms at right-angles (Barbie doll style) at all times.

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Going Green on learn budget | Fuel Prices Hike

Fuel prices have skyrocketed in the past few weeks.

To make things worse comes the further talk of increasing the price of diesel at fuel pumps. In such times, one should look at fuel-efficient options which use alternative fuels like Compressed Natural gas (CNG) and Electric Hybrid cars.


CNG costs Rs 29 per kilogram, and is mainly used to run commercial vehicles in Delhi.

Maruti has specially designed and modified nine different vehicles starting from the Eeco van, Alto, Wagon R, Estilo, SX4 etc. to run on CNG using advanced twin computer technology.

The new generation of CNG cars will definitely offer you better performance compared to their older counterparts where you had to start pushing the accelerator a day before you actually started driving. The new cars come with integrated cylinders and piping as well as computers which monitor engine performance. Says I. V.

Rao of Maruti, "Today's generation of specially designed CNG vehicles give you almost the same performance as their petrol powered counterparts at half the cost." Maruti is not the only vehicle manufacturer with CNG vehicles.

Many others have jumped on to the CNG bandwagon as well. Toyota offers an excellent Innova and Corolla Altis in CNG.

General Motors India has an Aveo model in CNG on offer. At the launch of the Aveo CNG, Managing Director of General Motors in India, Karl Slym said, "Its (Aveo CNG's) running cost is approximately 54 per cent lower than a similar vehicle powered by petrol and 25 per cent lower than a similar vehicle powered by diesel."

He added: "Because of the lower operating economics and the growing number of CNG stations being built across India, this offering is expected to appeal to both individual and fleet customers."

CNG is a clean and green fuel which is quite light on your pocket. If you desire to go the unconventional way (and have the moolah for it) you can of course opt for a hybrid car.

A hybrid, as the name implies, is a vehicle that uses two sources of power — a conventional petrol or diesel engine and an electric motor.

Honda was the first company in India to make a hybrid version of the Civic available, though it did not do very well.

Toyota has not fared much better either with its globally popular Prius — thanks to the huge import duties imposed on all such cars by the government.

One hybrid vehicle which has done surprisingly well in India is the Porsche Cayenne SUV.

This is simply because it is placed in a segment in which people do not mind spending a little extra.

If you want to be green and are lean on the budget, do opt for a new generation CNG vehicle.

Your running costs will be half of petrol and at least 30 per cent cheaper than with diesel.

The only drawback is the long queues at filling stations and the fact that filling stations are only located in the Delhi and NCR areas.

You would also have to pick your way between auto-rickshaws and taxis— but with the savings you make at the end of the day will make it worthwhile for you.

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Sleep tight with snooze foods | yahoo.com

There's some science behind the old wives' tale that a glass of warm milk can help you sleep better at night. Research claims that what you eat is directly related to how you sleep. As Ritika Samaddar, Regional head, Dietetics at Max Healthcare in New Delhi says, "Anyone experiencing difficulty in falling asleep, waking up repeatedly or waking up too early, and having experienced these more than five times a month, could be suffering from insomnia. Its causes can range from medical conditions and stress to erratic eating habits."



So if this number matches yours, eating right can help before you're forced to resort to popping pills. But here, eating right isn't about counting calories and not all foods will cart you off to dreamland. Ishi Khosla, clinical nutritionist and director, Whole Foods, India points out, "The chemical tryptophan present in certain foods, is the raw material that the brain uses to release sleep-inducing hormones-serotonin and melatonin. Adequate serotonin levels promote deep, restorative sleep."

Foods like milk, yogurt, banana, cherries, fish, nuts, flaxseed, oatmeal, honey, turkey, soy, chamomile tea, wholewheat bread, and leafy vegetables, are rich in tryptophan. Also, magnesium (found in wheat bran, almonds, cashews, kelp and brewer's yeast) and vitamin B6 and B12 (found in wheat germ, sunflower seeds and oil, and tuna) are sleepfriendly nutrients and should be incorporated in a day's meal.

On the other hand, high-calorie and spicy foods are difficult to digest and cause interrupted or fitful sleep. Also, avoid eatables with high sugar content, caffeine, and nicotine because they stimulate the brain instead of relaxing it.

For better results, one must have a a long-term commitment to a well-balanced diet and a healthier lifestyle- think regular exercise, less late nights, no junk food, and yes, no cigarettes and alcohol. After all, you can't move mountains just by sipping green tea.

Dig into these

Here's another reason to hit the greens. A German study in Psychopharmacology reveals that vegetables like lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and kale are powerhouses of vitamins that help combat stress and induce restful sleep.

Perfect timing

Restrict food intake at least two hours before bedtime to avoid feeling uncomfortably full. Besides, an active digestive system acts as a hindrance for the body and the mind to relax.

Wheat bran breads not only boost your serotonin and melatonin (these are the sleep-friendly hormones) levels, they are also rich in magnesium, which is a muscle relaxant. Eat them toasted and add a dash of honey!

The calcium content in milk helps the brain use tryptophan, creating melatonin faster, as do bananas. They make for a good wholesome breakfast.

Cut these out

The popular perception that a glass of wine acts as a sedative is a myth as it dehydrates your body. Wine will wake you up during the night, leaving you very thirsty and cranky.

Avoid fried and spicy foods for dinner as these are difficult to digest and make the digestive system hyper-active. Think twice before biting into your deep-fried chicken.

Caffeine is one of the most 'long-standing' products, that might take up to 14 hours to metabolise. So it is best not to have that double espresso too late in the day.

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How to use skin essentials | How to use skin shop or fresh wash

But are so many products really neccessary? We help you decide which of those bottles and jars are really essential.

BODY WASH OR SOAP BAR

The idea of using a bar of soap when there are so many fancy bottles body wash lining the shelves is surely unfashionable.

But which is more effective? Promoters of liquid cleansers claim that these are gentler than bathing bars as they contain large amounts of petrolatum - an ingredient that moisturises and lubricates the skin.

Undoubtedly soap bars are more alkaline and have a dehydrating impact on the skin. " Body washes are a more convenient and hygienic option for bathing and they spread easily over the skin. They have hydrating and nourishing ingredients too," says Dr Chiranjeev Chabra, dermatologist and cosmetic laser surgeon, Skin Alive Clinic.

On the flip side, conservatives claim that the moisturising property of liquid cleansers makes them less effective at removing dirt and reducing body odour.


"The reality is that both soap bars and body wash are equally good in cleaning the body. The selection should be based on individual skin requirements and the season," says Dr Anil Malik, senior consultant, dermatology, Sitaram Bhartia.

Moreover, many mild soap bars are now available in the market, which have a neutral pH of 7- 10 and don't have the same drying effect. " Earlier soaps had high per cent of caustic and this left the skin dry and stretchy. Things have changed now.

Special soaps are available too for acne skin which are antiseptic and help to dry the acne," says Dr Chabr.


EXPERT TAKE:

Body wash is ideal for winter or hot and dry weather.

Use soap bars on hot and humid days, during the rainy season or if you have oily skin.

DAY CREAM OR NIGHT CREAM

DO we really need different creams for the days and night? Can't day creams be used at night too? Experts say no. Our skin needs different products as the skin's requirement varies according to the body clock. " During the day our skin needs protection from pollution and harmful rays. At night, the skin needs to rejuvenate itself and repair all the damage that goes during the day," says Dr Sachin Dhawan, head, department of dermatology, Artemis.

Day creams contain antioxidants and titanium dioxide ( or other sunscreens), which serve as proper shield for the skin. Night creams, on the other hand, have higher levels of active ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol and alpha hydroxy acids ( AHAs) that repair the skin and also moisturise it. Moreover, night creams are highly concentrated, thicker and stronger than day creams because the skin dries out more quickly while you sleep.

In fact, different categories of creams should be used by individuals of different skin types. In her book, The Skin Type Solution , Dr Leslie Baumann suggests that if your skin is dry, you need a hydrating night cream. Sensitive skin needs an anti- inflammatory night cream, while those with wrinkles should opt for a night cream with retinol or antioxidants.

EXPERT TAKE:

If you use night cream during the day, the active ingredients can either get oxidised by the UV rays or cause skin reaction.

ASTRINGENT OR TONER

Astringents and toners were earlier part of female domain but are now popular among men too. " Our face needs intense cleaning to remove the proteins produced by the skin. These will otherwise block the pores, causing blackheads and acne," says Dr Dhawan. The purpose of an astringent and toner is the same - cleaning the skin, destroying bacteria that cause acne and adjusting the pH level in the skin.

But astringent is for oily skin while toner is for dry skin. Essentially astringent has an anti- bacterial quality that reduces oil, blackheads and cares for acne prone skin types. Toners, on the other hand, are milder and are meant for those who produce less oil on their face and older skins.

EXPERT TAKE:

Astringents are alcohol based and intended for oily skin. Toners hydrate and tone the skin and are ideal for dry or normal skin.

EYE GEL OR EYE CREAM

NO ONE wants under eye pouches, dark circles or wrinkles and the solution seems to lie in over- the- counter eye gels and creams.

People assume these fulfil the same purpose.

But the reality is that eye gels and creams work differently. " Wrinkles are removed with a compound called matrixyl, which works best when delivered in the form of cream. Eye bags and dark circles, on the other hand, respond well to a chemical called haloxyl, effective when delivered in the form of a gel rather than cream," says Dr Urvashi Kaw, consultant, dermatology and cosmetology, B L Kapur Memorial Hospital.

Creams and gels are oil particles in water used in different proportions. Gels are less oily and tend to be absorbed faster by the skin. " Unlike creams, gels neither block the skin pores nor do they leave behind a greasy residual effect," says Dr Malik. " The skin under our eyes is 4- 5 times thinner than facial skin and is more porous. Therefore, the chances of pores getting blocked are higher under the eye," he adds. Hence, in general it's advisable to use eye gels as against eye creams in general.

EXPERT TAKE:

Eye gels are intended to reduce puffiness, dark circles and eye sags, while creams may reduce wrinkling.

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The Art Of Videogames

The artwork that goes into today’s videogames can be museum-worthy. Many game scenes look completely photorealistic, created with crisp high-end graphics; others are highly stylized cartoon-like visuals. Some games even contain scenes that are beautifully painted by hand.

To showcase these beautiful works, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences and the Entertainment Software Association set up an art show and contest called Into the Pixel, which hopes to highlight some of the best artwork created for video games.

The 2011 show is currently featured online, but will also be showcased at the E3 Gaming Expo, which will be held from June 7 to 9 in Los Angeles. You can also see a list of the winning artwork at the Into the Pixel site, with profiles and descriptions of the artists.

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Green World : Possible Solutions To Stop Global Warming | Save the Earth

Travis Bradford points out in his article [1] that as solar power becomes more efficient and more widely available, it will create not just an ecological, but a financial incentive to invest in the technology:

"It's not just that we're moving toward alternatives, it's that we're moving toward distributed [power generation] as well. If both of those are true, solar is the only viable option.

"Solar is different from other energy technologies in that it delivers energy at the point of use, directly to the end user. That allows it to circumvent the entire supply chain. It's not another option for a utility, it's a competitor to a utility -- the first time utilities have really had a competitor."
                                                                                                     -Travis Bradford



Solar Power Could
Stop Global Warming

There could be a huge revolution in power production that could make it economically possible for solar power to play a big part in the solving the problem of climate change. Mr. Bradford continues:
"Solar is slowly going to begin to unwind the existing utility economics, to the point where utilities decide they have to get in or they risk losing their core business."

It will be exciting for you to see how the energy industry changes in response to this powerful new market force. But you don't have to watch it play out from the sidelines- you can help people like Travis spread their message and accelerate this much needed change.

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Green World | A Multitude of Ways to Help Stop Global Warming | Save the Earth

People are becoming more aware of the damage being done to the environment due to pollution and are starting to take simple measures to decrease the damage done on an individual basis. There are a tremendous number of ways to work individually along with environmental groups to help stop global warming. Environmental groups can help stop legislation that will be harmful to the environment as well as helping to promote legislation that will help force large companies to change their carbon dioxide emissions and other pollutants. However, these groups can not do any more than make the general population aware of the damage certain practices are doing tothe environment, as well as offering opportunities to contribute to their cause such as through buying a 'stop global warming' bracelet. Each individual must make the choice to change these habits and help to stop global warming.

What to Do

There is a multitude of ways to help stop global warming on an individual basis. One way is to use a water filter, either by hooking one into the plumbing system or buying a pitcher that has a filter in it, so that water bottles are no longer used. In addition, decreasing meat intake or eliminating red meat altogether can also help to reduce greenhouse emissions.  Going to an organic foods store and local markets is another way to help reducecarbon dioxide emissions because the food does not have to be transported long distances by trucks and planes.  When going to the grocery store, bringing a cloth bag to put the food in is one way to save oncarbon dioxide emissions and also on garbage from the plastic or paper bags.



At home, individuals can help stop global warming by turning off the computer and unplugging it when it is not in use.  The same should be done for stereo systems when they are not in use since they are still pulling from the power supply.  The thermostat should be turned up two degrees in the summer and down two degrees in the winter to save on electricity and thuscarbon dioxide emissions.  Layering clothing appropriately can help with the temperature difference.  When possible, air drying clothing as opposed to using the clothes dryer saves on energy and making sure the dish washer is filled to capacity before running it also saves money on the water heating needed to run it.  The water heater should be turned down to one hundred twenty degrees and should be insulated if possible.  Light bulbs in the house should also be changed to fluorescent tohelp stop global warming since they take less energy to use.

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Global Warming Prevention | Green World | "Save the Earth"

You must accept that you and everyone you know must sooner or later learn to live on a fraction of the energy you currently consume. But most importantly, you can raise awareness of global warming right now so others like you can make a difference, too. We need to make these changes swiftly if we are to avoid a climate catastrophe.
We are extinguishing the Earth's biodiversity and degrading most ecosystems, creating a bleak future for ourselves. The earth is large, but finite. The result of the enormous human population and the environmental impact of our current way of life is tremendous, and cannot be ignored. But you can help stop global warming.
These tips will empower you to help prevent global warming. There are numerous ways in which our learning to live with less will take place; The following tips discuss some of the most potent possibilities, in that implementing them will cut out or reduce some of your most significant personal contributions to climate change:

Tip 1. Sell Your Car

Motor fuel accounts for 60% of carbon emissions over the past 20 years. In 1999 The transportation sector overtook Industry as the biggest producer of carbon emissions in the United States, according to the Energy Information Administration. Yup, the past century of personal motorized travel has been a very convenient, luxurious, and enjoyable demonstration of grossly unsustainable human activity. You are responsible for these emissions in various ways direct and indirect, but the biggest behavioral culprit under your closest control is your personal transportation.

It's easier than you think!
There are so many hidden benefits when you decide to stop driving. Think about it:

• Zero insurance costs. It's safer for everybody
• Zero repair costs. No more stress at the mechanic
• Far fewer emissions if you take public transportation or car-share
• You'll be healthier by walking and biking more

Car Free Solution 1:

Joining a car co-op is a simple way to reduce your impact from personal transportation. In fact, car co-ops now operate in a growing number of cities around the world. Find the closest car sharing option to you. Start your own car sharing co-op to help with global warming prevention if there is no car sharing going on in your area. It's a breeze to set up!

Car Free Solution 2:

Public transport dramatically cuts your emissions from personal vehicle use. In fact, one could argue public transit is the only reasonable, long-term solution to the majority of our transport needs. It is slowly improving as US cities confront the impacts of an infrastructure built around cars and trucks. It will only get better when you demand adequate services; vote with your feet (and bring all your friends!) to demonstrate the need. As you will read next, transportation in general has a lot to do with global warming-- including the transportation of food.

If you must drive, then when choosing a vehicle, make mileage efficiency the top factor and start working now on any changes you need to make in your life to let you get rid of your car as soon as possible.

Tip 2. Buy Local, Eat Local

Local farmers' markets are a great opportunity to help prevent global warming directly, increase local food security, and support your local economy. You may have noticed the proliferation of farmer's markets around the country over the past decade or so. This is not just a quaint fad. When you buy local (and this goes for anything, not just produce), you support local, sustainable economic growth by keeping farmers and other primary producers at work, and your money working to bolster your local economy instead of supporting executives and corporate investors.
Food shipment has a serious cost, both ecologically and financially; the average meal on your plate in the US has traveled 2000 miles to get to you. This helps to explain why every calorie of food you consume costs an average of ten calories of energy to produce. That imbalance is a major contributor to global warming, pouring carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere at a far greater rate than the oceans and vegetation can store or reprocess them.
So get your food from your local area! Here is a great resource to help you eat more locally.
When you make these vital changes, you don't just reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You also encourage a more stable economy and a diverse business market. And while you probably can't eliminate processed and imported goods from your life tomorrow, the more needs you can meet locally the more you reduce your carbon footprint and decrease global warming. As you're probably realizing, becoming a local citizen is among the best ways to reduce your impact.

Tip 3. Your Local Government

You must help shift global warming into the mainstream. Not until you as an active citizen demand that we prevent global warming will the government move to act on it in a meaningful way. No politician interested in re-election is going to sponsor the kind of legislation required to alleviate our massive responsibility for global warming without an organized citizenry pushing for better climate legislation. Influencing the federal government on this issue may seem daunting, but you can get your local government to help with global warming prevention much more easily.

Tip 4. Influence Your Place of Work

Another great way to help prevent global warming is by getting your place of work to adopt more energy efficient technologies like these photoluminescent exit signs. They use a lot less energy, are made from recycled aluminum (and are recyclable), and are not toxic or radioactive, meaning they are much safer. If you work in an office building, talk to your co-workers about replacing the signs you have now with these; they’re less expensive than the other kinds of signs and are a very cost-effective step towards going green.
Your personal action matters. Sell your car, buy your food from local sources, and pressure your governments to act. Be vocal with friends, family, and strangers alike about why you’re making these changes, and what is at stake. By now you know the full effects of climate change. But do you have the courage to make real changes in your life? It's not too late. You can even help right now.

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Poll :only 3 pc people say they have sex daily | Sex Drive Slow

According to a recent poll conducted by adult products company Adam and Eve, only three percent of the respondents said they had sex daily.

Nearly 20 percent admitted that they weren't sexually active.

Out of the 1,000 men and women surveyed, 5 percent admitted to never having had sex in their lives while, the majority of respondents (26 percent) said they have sex once or twice a week.

16 percent of the remaining participants said they had sex three to four times a week whereas, 15 percent admitted to having sex once or twice a month, reports the New York Daily News.

7 percent said they had sex every few months.

A mere 1 percent enjoyed sex more than once a day, reveals the poll.

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Bollywood celebs without makeup | MenXP.com | Yahoo India News

Article on Bollywood actresses without make up. About Bollywood actresses caught without wearing any make up. Includes Lara Dutta, Preity Zinta, Aishwarya Rai, Mugdha Godse, Tanushree Dutta, Sushmiita Sen, Urmila Matondkar, Karisma Kapooor.

Aishwarya Rai

  

Admitted that she is one of the most the most beautiful women, but that too has to be credited to her skilful make up. She does not exactly look ugly but her age shows without her make-up.

Preity Zinta

We can’t say that Preity looks ugly without make-up, but she definitely does not look as attractive. She seems stripped off her natural looking radiance.

Mugdha Godse

  The ‘Fashion’ babe turned heads with her glam look in the movie. However, she shocks everyone with her horrendous avatar in this picture. Far from a fashionable babe, Mugdha looks more like roadside model than a runway queen.

Lara Dutta

 The ex-Miss Universe is known for her impeccable style everywhere. Sadly, Lara gets caught in a not-so-appealing get-up and we can surely say that this is a rare happening and she surely does not disappoint very often.

Sushmita Sen

 Sush is our ultimate style diva and we always love her. However, Sush seems to be too caught in motherhood and her difficult career to pay too much attention to her make-up. She looks tired and lack luster without her make-up.

Urmila Matondkar

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Urmila looks like she has just woken up after ages of hibernation. She has scared viewers with her horror films but she scares onlookers, this time around by presenting her natural look in public.

Karisma Kapoor

 Karisma proves that looking good is in her family. Just like sister Kareena, she too looks radiant without a trace of make-up on her skin. Call it the bliss of new motherhood or naturally blessed genes, Karisma looks picture perfect with and without make-up.
 

 

 

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Are you the perfect kisser? |TOI | Quiz on the kiss-o-meter

 Before you pucker up one more time, take this quiz to find out where you figure on the kiss-o-meter.

When you kiss your special someone are emotions involved in it?
A. Yes. For me it is a combination of physical and intense emotional pleasure.
B. Sometimes it is.
C. No, of course not. It is just a physical thing.



Does your kissing style change with partners?
A. Yes of course. The way I am doing it depends on the kind of person I am with!
B. It does change sometimes.
C. No. I am the way I am. I never change my style.

What do you generally think of when you are kissing?
A. I enjoy every moment and make sure we are both comfortable.
B. I try and relax most of the time...
C. I get very nervous and keep thinking about the result of the kiss.

Do you forget about eveything when you kiss?
A. Of course! I just live for that moment.
B. Very rarely. Only if the person is very special.
C. What? Why would I?

Intimacy or a comfortable position - what is more important when you are kissing?
A. Both. Position and intimacy are both essential.
B. Not sure. I am okay kissing anywhere; position isn't important.
C. Neither. To kiss you just need another pair of lips!

Does your kissing have a certain rhythm?
A. Yes.
B. Maybe.
C. Wouldn't know.

Your answers:
Mostly A
A good kisser. Whoever you are with is sure lucky! You are someone who believes that when you kiss someone you are in love with, it is truly special. If you can forget about everything when you are kissing it means that you are totally are into it. A good kisser always adapts to their partner and that is what you do. The combination of physical and emotional pleasure is the key to an amazing kiss.

Mostly B
A selfish kisser. For you a kiss does not involve any kind of physical thing at all. You are usually relaxed and do not make much of it and that is a good thing but because you rarely change your style of kissing it can hamper your pleasure. You should think of your partner more often.

Mostly C
Need to try harder. You are someone who is usually very disconnected from the actual act of kissing and that does not help at all. You should allow some emotions to creep in to make it work. The fact that you keep thinking about the result of the kiss can hamper your performance. You should just relax and enjoy the moment!

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