Yoga Vs exercise

By

-

April 8, 2020

Being active or engage with regular physical activity has shown many health benefits physically and mentally. A regular activity like walking the dog or just jogging in the park, you will surely burn calories. It’s never too late to start any physical activity or to adopt a healthy lifestyle. It depends on you what changes you need to see within.

Indulge in any form of physical activity you are going to relieve stress, enhance mood, alleviate sleep and improves the gut function as well. Along with that, it helps in healthy weight management by provoking hunger, reducing the intake of calories and improving gut hormone secretion.

For few people, it might be not easy to indulge in any form of activity on a daily basis so that’s why many people join the gym or indulge in activities such as swimming, Zumba and also sports.

However, aside from gymming and other exercises, many people prefer to practice yoga and other forms of yoga. Thanks to increasing awareness for the last few decades, both yoga and exercise have acknowledged by the health circles to improve over-well being.

Yoga is an ancient practice originated from India to create harmony between body mind and soul. Now yoga has upsurge in the popularity and many people practice different forms of yoga asana to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Both yoga and exercise are not similar. Though both aim to improve health but both forms of style have their own set of benefits. Well, most of the newbie confused about which one is better. As both aimed at maintaining and improving over well-being.

What is the difference between yoga and other exercises

Exercise

Young woman exercising in nature — Woman doing stretching exercise in park. Caucasian female model exercising in nature.

Exercise is defined as the movement of the body that strengthens muscles and also helps in burning calories. One can indulge in any form of exercise such as walking, running, swimming, jogging, and other physical activity. For instance, one can also involve in dancing, badminton or playing sports or other activities are also a form of exercise.

Unlike yoga, it aimed at the physical, mental and spiritual growth of a person. Exercise only concerned with the physical aspect but not create harmony between body, mind, and soul. According to experts, most exercises improve blood circulation, respiratory system, and cardiovascular system. Moreover, it also helps to reduce weight and keep you in shape.

The exercise aimed to strengthen muscles and works on endurance. Unlike yoga, exercise requires repetition to achieve speed, accuracy, increase confidence and connects with the brain that helps in practice.

It increases the blood flow to the entire body parts and also increases the breathing rate. Regular exercises help you to intake more oxygen and keep your heart healthy as well.

Benefits of Regular Exercise

Helps in losing weight

Reduce the risk of heart diseases

Exercise decreases blood sugar levels and helps in regulating insulin in a good manner.

It also helps to quit smoking.

Regular exercise helps in releasing feel-good brain chemicals and keeps you more relaxed.

Regular exercise stimulates and releases Serotonin that helps you thinking, learning, and increase concentration as you age.

Reduce the risk of cancer such as breast, uterine, and lung cancer.

Also read Easy Tips to Maintain a Healthy Weight

Yoga

Unlike Exercise, Yoga is an ancient practice that creates harmony between body, mind, and soul. This old technique of Hindu tradition is concerned with major aspects of life and overall well being.

Yoga also has various forms of style such as Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and other forms of Yoga. This form of yoga style incorporates breath, which is very important for our health.

In order to cleanse the mind, it is important for the body to eliminate impurities to function nadis. As yoga and pranayama help in balancing three Dosha Pitta, Vata, and Kapha.

Benefits of Yoga

Yoga for physical health

Increases flexibility

Weight reduction

Improve respiration, energy, and vitality

Protection from energy

Yoga for mental health

Improves Concentration and Focus

Insomnia

Helps to know yourself

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Yoga for spirituality

Yoga is internally linked with Pranayama, Meditation, Sun salutations, Asana to associate with body, mind, and spirit. For ancient yogis or rishis, it is an ideal way to attain enlightenment.

In conclusion

Both yoga and exercise have their own physical aspects but they are not the same. Exercise focuses on the improvement of the internal and external parts of the body, whereas Yoga aims to create harmony between body, mind, and spirit.

Home made cold drinks

By

Muskan Kumari

-

April 8, 2020

0

Refreshing mint cocktail mojito with rum, lime and raspberry, cold drink or beverage

The summer season brings fun with its hot summery feeling, the best thing about summer is you can drink everything cold and refreshing that soothes your mouth. Just imagine a moment that you came out of the swimming pool and your throat urges for something that hydrates your body, just at that moment you receive a cold drink. Nothing is more pleasing then feeling the melting of ice along with some bursting flavor.

Down below are some interesting mouth-watering Home made cold drinks that you can also serve to your guest this summer.

Strawberry refreshment drink

This drink can be made in just 5 minutes. Ingredients that you need are 2 teaspoon strawberry syrup,1 teaspoon lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon black salt, ½ cup water, ice cubes, and some strawberry slice. First, take a glass pour the syrup and lemon juice and salt mix them. Then add ½ cup ice cubes and ½ cup water then put them in juicer mixer let the ice grind for 25 sec. now the drink is ready to serve just before serving it sprinkle some chopped strawberry or sliced one.

Mint refreshing drink

For making this drink first take your mixing jar to add chopped medium-size cucumber, 4-5 piece of chopped raw mango, ½ cup mint leaves, 2 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon roasted cumin seed powder. Then add a pinch of black pepper mix them all well then add ½ cup ice cubes and ½ glass of water. Mix them in juice mixer for about 1 minute and it is ready to serve. It’s one of the best Home made cold drink.

Guava summer drink

Cut red guava in the small pieces put them in the juicer jar, add ½ cup ice cube, 2 teaspoon lemon juice, add salt according to your taste. Then add 2 teaspoons of sugar stir them well, ½ cup water then turns on the mixer for about 1 and a half minute. Then strain the juice to make sure that all the seeds are strained out. Serve it your guest by garnishing it with some crushed ice. You will like Guava Home made cold drink.

Also read The history of the apple pie

Mango juice

To prepare a mango drink that almost tastes like the market one, without any preservative and totally a healthy one. For making such drink you need two 2 riped and 1 raw mango, chop them into small pieces then boil them in a cooker and don’t forget to add ½ cup water before start boiling. Then in other oven start preparing the sweet syrup that you have to add in the juice. For that take 2 small cups of sugar and ½ cup water, keep the solution stirring in medium flame until the sugar melts and mixes well when it’s ready to cool it down. While sugar syrup cools, you take those boiled mangos in the blending jar and blend it out in the whole liquid form. Then strain the liquid so that the drink has no fibers in it. Then add the sugar syrup according to your taste and add 2 cups of water to loosen up its consistency. The Home made cold drink is now ready to serve.

Also read Banoffee Pie: a brief history and a full proof recipe

Cold coffee

This is the most loved drink of Teenagers and children. For making it, put 2-3 spoons of chocolate powder, 2 ½ spoons of sugar, one cup cold milk and 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream. Blend them all in a blender, and it is ready, tastes exactly like cafes coffee and garnish it with crushed ice that’s all.

Lemon ice tea

For preparing it to take a teapot or pan add 3 spoons of sugar in 1 cup of water and some powdered tea. After that when the water starts to boil turn off the flame and strain it in another container, and cool it for almost 2 hours in the fridge. While serving add lemon slices, chopped mint leaves and some ice cubes then add the cooled tea into the glass you can also garnish it with some grated lemon at the top.

Thick chocolate shake

Take a dairy milk chocolate of Rs 40 to break it down into pieces, then add them in blending jar, add one small spoon sugar along with ½ spoon cocoa powder or chocolate powder now just crush them all in a blender. So that they become powder and now add 1 cup cold milk then again blend them properly. While serving, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream into the glass, crushed ice, peeled chocolate. To make it look more stunning put chocolate sauce or syrup at the top. You can serve the Yummy Home made cold drink.

Virgin mojito

Virgin mojito is the easiest Home made cold drink, it takes just 2 minutes to get ready. Grab a fancy glass put graded lemon along with the chopped ones. Add some mint leaves then crush them all together inside the glass. After this crushing adds 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder and ½ teaspoon black salt. Now in the last step just add soda and ice cubes stir it a little and It’s ready.

Aloe vera juice

This juice benefits the whole body, as aloe vera is rich in vitamins and minerals. So it provides your body the basic nutrients. Take out aloe vera gel from its leaves. Then put them in a mixer jar, add mint leaves and half glass water then turn on the mixer. After getting the result, strain it in a cup and mix 2 teaspoons of honey. Mix it well and in the end add some cubes of ice and the most healthy drink is ready. You can add this to your daily routine.

Also read The curious history of the red velvet cake

Rose drink

To make rose refreshing drink all you need is rose syrup, cold water, and ice cubes. Add 4 spoons of rose syrup and cold water mix them well then add ice cubes and its done. This type of drink is for people who like homemade food or drink items.

The picture that are shown above are taken from the internet.

The history of the apple pie

By

Muskan Ahuja

-

April 7, 2020

0

Ask anyone about the origins of the apple pie, and they are sure to answer you: America! However, the apple pie is not as American as it seems to be! If you look at the history of the apple pie, you willA find that the apple pie actually originated in England!

Yes, you heard it right. The apple pie has historical and cultural influences that go way beyond what you can imagine. So read on to find out more about the incredibly delicious and a national favourite.

The major ingredients and culinary influences:

Culinary influences from France, the Netherlands, and the Ottoman Empire have drastically shaped the apple pie that we know of today. In fact, it was the Europeans who took apples to North America in the first place. Until then, only crab apples would grow in the continent. And since crab apples are really shrunken and sour, most people would not even consume them. So using them for pastry could not even be thought of!

In fact, not just apples; but a lot of ingredients that go into the dish come from places other than America. Wheat, to begin with, originated in the Middle East. Pastry fats, such as butter and lard, came to America only when Christopher Columbus brought domesticated cattle to the New World. Sri Lanka and Indonesia take credit for important spices, such as cinnamon, Anisette Toast Biscotti and nutmeg. And looking at the very art of pastry itself; it is not as American as it seems to be. Rather, French, Italian and Arabic cultures have greatly contributed to the art of pastry.

Also read The curious history of the red velvet cake

The history of the apple pie:

Most British pies of those times were savoury, though sweet fruit based pies were not that uncommon. In fact, one of the very first recipes appeared in England in Samuel Pegge’s The Forme of Cury in 1390. However, the British and the Dutch take credit for having modified the recipe and perfecting it.

But then how did the dish become so popular in America? In fact, why is it so popular that it is almost considered to be a national and patriotic symbol now?

Eventually, Europeans brought the apple pie to the colonies, and the dish quickly gained popularity from there on. In fact, two recipes for the dessert appeared in America’s first cookbook; and even during the Civil War, the dish was widely popular. It is perhaps the ease with which the recipe can be made, its affordability and its wide adaptability that has made it so popular across the globe. Apple pie later went on to become a staple in the American cuisine, and with the advent of advertising and news in the 20^th century; the dish was transformed into a national symbol. It was also around this time that the phrase ‘as American as apple pie’ started to become popular.

Gradually, the apple pie also began to be associated with the US government, which only increased its popularity. This also greatly contributed to it being counted as an American symbol. Moreover, the apple pie was also considered to be the preference of the then president Franklin Roosevelt from among all pies, which led to the notion that it was the all-American favourite pie. Lastly, when the world was shook by the WW II, the American soldiers began claiming that they were fighting for ‘mom and apple pie’. This assertion was the final step to establishing the dessert as a metaphor for the United States.

Making the perfect homemade apple pie

Thanks to the plenty of apple pie recipes available all over the internet, making an apple pie at home is an easy task!

Here is a full proof recipe of an apple pie, including a delicious apple pie filling for you to try. And if you are craving for a delicious apple crumble pie, simply freeze some of the apple pie dough. Once frozen and solid, break it in chunks and put it on top of the filling before baking.

Apple pie recipe:

Apple pie dough:

2 ½ cups maida

4 tsp. sugar

¼ tsp. salt

200 grams butter, cold and diced

1 large egg

Apple pie filling:

750 grams baking apples

2/3 cup caster sugar

¼ cup unsalted butter

2 tbsp lemon juice

¼ tsp cinnamon powder

¼ tsp nutmeg powder

Method:

Start by making the dough. Combine all the dry ingredients together, add in the butter. Use your fingertips to break the butter into small pieces. Make sure that the butter coats all of the flour.
When the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, add in the egg to combine the dough and bring it together. Do not over knead.
Shape into a disc, cover in plastic wrap and freeze for an hour.
Prepare the filling next. Core, peel and chop the apples. Mix them with the lemon juice and sugar and set aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan, and add the apple sugar mix to it. Cook till the sugar dissolves and the apples soften, for about 10 minutes.
Strain the mixture if it is too liquidy, or else you will end up with a really soggy filling. Add in the spices, and mix well.
Take half of the chilled dough. Roll into an 11-12 inch wide disc. Repeat with the other half. Chill the dough for around 10 minutes.
Line a 9 inch pie pan with the rolled out dough, and trim the excess dough. Put the apple pie filling in the centre
Brush the sides with egg, and place the second disc of dough on the top.
Pierce the dough disc on the top with a paring knife, to allow steam to escape.
Freeze for around 20 minutes, and then bake at 200 degrees C for around 45 minutes to an hour, till nice and golden.

All about Heel Spurs

By

Sayantani Chakraborty

-

April 7, 2020

0

Heel spurs: The hooked and bony outgrowth at the base of the calcaneus (from Latin ‘Calcanium’ meaning human heel) heel bone caused by Calcium deposits on the underside of the heel is called Heel Spur.In medical terms this is called “Heel Spur Syndrome”.
These bony protrusions, often extending by half an inch at the base of your heel can cause extreme discomfort or pain because of their tendency to jab continuously at the soft base tissues and the fatty tissues beneath your heel.So if you feel a continuous cutting pain in your heels while taking the first steps in the morning or while walking, then probably you are suffering from a Heel spur and need the advice of a medical practitioner.

Who are prone to heel spurs?

All about Heel Spurs — Courtesy: pixabay

This abnormal growth is mostly common in people over 40 years of age but there are certain stimulating factors that can cause heel spur to any one around:

Suffering from a foot problem from an early age that makes walking uneven and distorted, puts excess pressure on your heels causing heel spurs.
It is often attributed to Planar Fasciitis(a severe inflamation of the ‘fascia’ ligament that binds the heel to the toes) or due to something deeper such as Artharitis(joint inflammation).
Some people I have seen are so comfortable in flip-flops that they are always wearing one wherever they go to. . This can also cause heel spurs.Try shifting to well-fitted comfortable shoes. Remember if you invest in good shoes now, you can avoid these unnecessary feet problems for your whole life-time.
Involving in sudden exercises that puts severe pressure on the heels or standing on your feet for long hours or walking .
Wearing high-heel shoes or cheap quality shoes that donot provide the optimum support needed to your feet.
Last but not the least, obesity. Excess body weight puts too mcuh pressure on your feet, your heels and your knees. Also, there are uncountable health issues related to excess fat which I guess you alraedy know about, one of them being Heel spurs.
But thankfully, there are easy,less costly and effective ways to tackle this problem.

Also read How to spend time at home during Quarantine

Symptoms of heel spurs:

Although in many cases, heel spurs cause no symptoms, others have reported a chronic and intermittant pain, a rather sharp one, while jogging, running or walking. Some people describe the pain as the feeling you get when a sharp knife sticks to your heel. When you wake up in the morning and your feet touches the ground for the first time, you feel a sharp pain as if a pin is sticking on your heel. Symptoms, may also include inflammation in the heel area and warming up of your heels.These symptoms may spread to the arch of your foot. Eventually, a small bony protrusion may be visible. In case of symptoms, you should go to your doctor immediately and get an X-ray done for diagnosis.

Also All you need to know about Coronavirus

Treatment of Heel Spurs:

Heel spur treatment is usually NON-SURGICAL. These include:

Take REST from your daily activities and retire from walking and working too much for some days because giving rest to your feet will control the condition from worsening. Also, recovery can be slow if you continue walking.
Applying ICE on the affected heel for a prolonged time will numb the area and reduce the swelling, leading to reduction in pain. Use this cold compress method for at least 15 minutes a day to get some relief.

STRETCHING EXERCISES are known to be one of the best solutions but you should ensure that you donot exaggerate too much and stretch all your muscles to have good balance. Hence,its best to take the advice of your physician.
MEDICINES , advised by your physician, can give you relief. Acetaminophen(Tylenol), Aleve, Ibuprofen(Advil) are usually the ones prescribed by the doctors in this line. However, these medicines may carry side –effects.In many cases, a functional orthotic device can correct the causes of heel and arch pain such as biomechanical imbalances. In some cases, injection with a corticosteroid may be done to relieve inflammation in the area.
TAPING or STRAPPING the affected heel may reduce pain but should be done only by practised hands.

⦁ Using SPECIAL SHOES recommended by doctors such as Z-coil shoes gives relief from pain. Also, Orthotic shoe inserts are some artificial braces which looks like heel pads gives proper support to the heel and can be used to prevent further wear and tear of tissues. These should be used along side, proper shoes for complete protection.

Almost 90 percent of the patients suffering from heel spurs get well after administering all the non-surgical treatments for about 9 to 12 months. If not, then surgery is essential to restore normal movement. Surgery includes removing the bony outgrowth or release of the plantar fascia but this method can be really costly.

Also read Cool facts about a Capricorn

PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE:

Remember one thing: You have the privilege of wearing cheap clothes but never cheap shoes! Because the damage caused is too expensive to pay for! We can always avoid heel spurs by wearing well-fitting good quality shoes which provides adequate support to your feet. Regular exercises, stretching exercises specifically and loosing weight in case you are over-weight can prevent heel spurs. Always give rest to your feet at the end of the tiring days; you can keep your feet dipped in water diluted with essential oil or massage your feet with essential oil mixed with carrier oil. Some essential oils with anti-inflammatory properties that you can use are Eucalyptus, Lavender, Thyme, Sesame, Orange etc.

CONCLUSION:

Heel spurs can be a common problem after a certain age and can even arise in youngsters as well but we have a variety of ways to treat them and also we can prevent them . Thank you and Have a nice day!

Banoffee Pie: a brief history and a full proof recipe

By

Muskan Ahuja

-

April 6, 2020

0

Banoffee chocolate pie decorated with chocolate, fresh blueberry and strawberry, holiday christmas background

The word ‘banoffee’ comes from the words ‘banana’ and ‘toffee’; and it is easy to determine that the classic dessert is a heavenly combination of the two. Interestingly, contrary to popular belief, a Banoffee pie is an incredibly easy recipe to make. It combines some really simply ingredients, such as banana, cream, dulce de leche, biscuits, etc; but the end result is a gorgeous melt-in-the-mouth creation.

The components of a Banoffee pie:

A Banoffee pie will always contain the following elements:

A buttery and crumbly base, made with crushed biscuits, graham crackers, etc. mixed with melted butter.
Slices of fresh banana
Fresh whipped cream
Caramel/toffee, made from scratch, or by boiling condensed milk, or dulce de leche.
Additional optional ingredients such as chocolate or coffee

The history behind the dessert:

Banana banoffee pie and cake in white plate isolated on white background

The British restaurateur, Nigel Mackenzie, created the Banoffee pie back in 1972. Here is how the story goes.

In 1968, Mackenzie and his wife, Sue Kenrick, purchased a tea room in East Sussex. This tea room was previously inhabited by monks. The couple spent six month renovating the place. Finally, they converted the tea room into a fashionable restaurant, and called it The Hungry Monk.

1971, when the restaurant was up and running, they realized that were short of one item for their dessert menu. The then head chef, Ian Dowding, suggested that they try out the recipe that he had brought back from America. This recipe was called the Blum’s Coffee Toffee Pie. Mackenzie embraced the idea whole heartedly, and they set to prepare the dessert with caramel, cream and boiled condensed milk. During the experimentation phase, Mackenzie suggested that they should use bananas, and that’s how the famous dessert was created. They named the dessert as ‘Signor Banoffi’s pie’.

Also read

The curious history of the red velvet cake

10 most expensive ice creams around the world

The popularity of the Banoffee pie:

Delicious banana cake on table — Delicious banana cake with coffee cup on table top view. Sliced fruit biscuit with caramel and buttercream on wooden catering plate, copy space

The customers of the restaurant were delighted. They fell in love with the dessert, and made sure that it was on the menu and was available when they visited. Gradually, the fame of the dessert spread across restaurants. Soon, it became a permanent item on the menu! In fact, Nestle went on to print the recipe on their condensed milk cans; which further increased the popularity of the dessert.On the downside, the commercialization of the dessert meant that its quality fell considerably. Unfortunately, imitators would use low quality whipped cream instead of lightly whipped double cream. They even substituted the short crust pastry base to ready made digestive biscuits, which they crushed and used.

The Deeper Secrets of the Hungry Monk was published in 1974, and the original Banoffee pie recipe appeared in their recipe book. The book sold over 1,00,000 copies, and the dessert took the world over. It even went on to gain official recognition in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1997.

Easy Banoffee pie recipe:

Everyone can make a Banoffee pie at home. It is simple and easy. And you would not have to rush to the supermarket to pick up ingredients especially for the dessert. No fancy equipments needed either!

Banoffee pie crust:

450 grams digestive biscuits

150 grams butter, unsalted

Banoffee pie toffee filling:

90 grams butter

2/3 cup brown sugar

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Banoffee pie topping:

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp coffee powder

3 bananas, thinly slices

Chocolate shavings

Cocoa powder, optional

Method:

Start by lining an 8 inch pie dish with parchment paper.
Crush the biscuits using a food processor. You will need fine crumbs for the base.
Melt the butter over low heat, and add in the biscuit crumbs.
Combine the mix evenly, and spoon in the prepared pie dish.
Use the back of a spoon, or the edge of a rolling pin to press down the mix firmly onto the base and the sides.
Refrigerate till ready for use.
Start with preparing the toffee filling next. Heat the butter and sugar in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add in the condensed milk.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring in intervals. Continue to cook for 5 to 10 minutes, till you obtain a thick consistency. A
Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
Pour over the chilled Banoffee pie base.
Refrigerate for an hour at least.
Whip the double cream using a stand mixer or an electric beater with the instant coffee powder, till soft peaks form.
Arrange the banana slices on top of the toffee mix.
Spoon the cream on the top, and use a small offset spatula to level it out.
Let it set in the fridge for at least an hour.
Garnish with cocoa powder and chocolate flakes, and serve cold.

Banoffee pie variations:

Today, the word Banoffee is synonymous with the classic combination of banana and toffee. It is no longer limited or restricted to just the classic Banoffee pie itself, but has witnessed a lot of variations over the years. A Banoffee cake is extremely popular, which uses a vanilla sponge, fresh whipped cream, dulce de leche and bananas. A Banoffee cheese cake is also an excellent innovation of the original dessert.

What innovation will you like to do with the classic dessert?

Options for students post completing their graduation in Australia?

By

Palvi Soni

-

April 5, 2020

4

After completion of graduate students abroad, countries like Australia might be wondering what to pursue after that. There are a lot many things that continuously evolve around the minds of the students. Students sometimes need to take prompt decisions about what should be done after completion of graduation. There are some important things to note down after the completion of graduation such as checking out visas whether a visa is expired or not. Students have to recognize various options after post graduation. In this blog, we will try to state some options for students to post completing their graduation in Australia.

Options for student after graduation in Australia

Join for higher degree programs

Group of multiethnic students on graduation day — Group of multiethnic students holding their diplomas on graduation day, Happy people celebrating education degree, copy space

Some students after completion of graduation opt to stay in Australia. What they do is they continue their studies after graduation. They make their portfolio strong by gathering more degrees to get the desired job there. There are so many things that students before continuation of master’s program should keep in their minds like they should apply for new visa prior expiration of the old one, arrange money for study and living over there. Students can enroll themselves in new Universities or in the same Universities in which their graduation has completed, it all depends upon the student’s choice.

Also read Real Ways to Make Money in College/University

Extend your Visa for a stay in Australia

People usually don’t want to leave abroad. Once they have enrolled in different courses, they want their regular stay in Abroad. Students can stay in Australia after completion of graduation by several means. Following reasons support you to stay in Australia

Working with current employer

This is the best way to extend your stay in Australia. Many students are using this way to make their stay increase and valid. If your present employer sponsors you, you can stay even after completion of your studies. Your current employer can sponsor you on a permanent or temporary basis depending upon his choice and that can be done by Employer Nomination Scheme Visa

Work with enhancing your skills

If you enroll yourself in different courses, you can increase your limit of stay in Australia. Students also enroll themselves in various English improving courses. It can be proved as a great option for staying in Australia even after the completion of graduation.

Explore more places in Australia.

If you increase your stay for visiting the country, no one can stop you from staying in abroad. Students can apply for a tourist visa after studies. It allows you to stay in Australia for a period ranging between 3 months to 12 months.

Working holiday

Students between the age of 18-30 years are capable to apply work and holiday visa that ensures them to work and travel having validity of 12 months.

Gain professional experience

Students can gain work experience that which make them gain industry-related skills that further help them in acquiring skilled migrant visa by earning an extra 5 five points. Students can work with different companies and enhance their skills to the next level. This will also help them to increase their stay in Australia.

Also read Study in Singapore: top colleges, procedure and other relevant information

Apply for PR

Passport with visa stamps. Travel or turism concept background. 3d illustration

Students after completing graduation should wish to achieve permanent residency. Students get PR by following ways

Skill Select Migration Program
Skilled Independent Visa
Employer Nomination Scheme
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme

Apply For a research scientist

Students can also apply for various Junior research fellowship and senior research fellowship programs. It will also extend their stay and provide more exposure to the research field and also add up their income source through research work. Students get more conversant with their work and even get permanent jobs based on their skills. If they get permanent jobs, ultimately their visa will be extended by itself.

Also read Masters study in Russia: a complete guide

Return to your country

Returning to your country after completion of graduation can be one of the options. If there are no plans after study just pack your bags and move back to your country after completing all the necessary formalities like cancellation of various services such as electricity, water, bank accounts and many more. Although this can be tough after staying long in foreign countries if they are no ways this can be one of the ways. Students might find it difficult to go back but many educational institutes run seminars regarding adjusting in their hometown after staying in Abroad.

Conclusion

Students once stay in abroad countries like Australia, they don’t feel comfortable coming back. Students finding different ways to increase their stay in the country by any means. In this blog, I have described various options for students to post completing their graduation in Australia. If you are having any doubt, feel free to ask me in the comment box.

The Grand Opera Cake

By

Muskan Ahuja

-

April 4, 2020

0

True coffee lovers cannot deny or hide their love for a good, moist, strong Opera Cake. No doubt, a good opera is one which has been baked and layered to perfection; and has been served at the right temperature. And for those who don’t yet know, an opera cake is a classic French cake. It is made of layers of Jaconde, coffee syrup, chocolate ganache, coffee buttercream , and chocolate glaze.

This cake is the perfect cake for those who are looking for something exotic, want something coffee flavoured yet nothing too strong, and cannot give up on their love for chocolate.

Read on to find more about the history of this class French pastry, its origin and naming. Also find out why you should definitely try an Opera cake at least once in your life.

How many layers does an opera cake have?

french chocolate cake opera in front of white background

A classic opera cake comprises of six layers in all. It starts with a thin layer of Jaconde sponge, soaked in coffee syrup, followed by a layer of coffee-flavoured buttercream. This is again followed by another layer of sponge and a layer of chocolate ganache. In the end there is a third layer of sponge and finally a topping of chocolate glaze.

Modern day chefs and pastry enthusiasts, however, have innovated the traditional opera cake. They add more layers to it, to show off their skills and add more levels of complexity to the dessert.

Where did it come from?

There are a lot of interesting stories about the origin of the opera cake. With so many competing stories about the same, it is hard to decide the true story behind the opera cake is. Nevertheless, it is interesting to know and read about all of these theories behind the invention of the cake.

One theory suggests that the cake was invented by one of the most famous and legendary pastry chefs of Paris, Louis Clichy; who showcased it as the Paris Exposition Culinaire in 1903. The cake was well received by all. Ultimately, it became the signature cake at the Clichy’s Shop in the years to come.

The owners of pâtisserie Dalloyau, on the other hand, claim that they were the one who invented the Opera cake back in 1955. As per their version of the story, the pastry chef Cyriaque Gavillon invented the cake. Apparently, the cake reminded his wife of the opera, and thus he named the cake as the “Opera cake” in honor of the Paris Opéra.

A third story that goes behind the cake is that it was invented by the Paris Opéra itself around the year 1890. Since the cake had large amounts of coffee in it, it helped people to stay awake during the final acts of the lengthy epics that were performed in the opera.

ALso Read The curious history of the red velvet cake

What goes in an opera cake?

There are different components that go into an opera cake, all of which combine beautifully together to create the epic and glorious cake that we know of today.

Let us break down the components of a classic opera cake, and try to understand each one of it better.

The Jaconde sponge:

A Jacone is a flavourful and light sponge made with almond flour, and has a lot of air incorporated in it, thanks to the egg whites that are used. Cheaper versions, however, would have a normal vanilla sponge, instead of the much more exotic and also costlier jaconde sponge.

The coffee syrup

The coffee syrup is integral to a good opera cake. Not only does it add a lot of flavour to the cake, but it also keeps it moist and juicy for a long time.

The coffee buttercream

A classic Italian meringue buttercream or a pate bombe mix is used to make the delicious buttercream for the cake. It is then flavoured generously with coffee, with even coffee liqueur is added at times for that extra dose of flavour.

The chocolate ganache:

A ganache is a smooth emulsion of cream and chocolate. It has a delightful and creamy texture, that takes the opera cake to an altogether new height.

The chocolate glaze is a versatile component, with no set recipe or method to be followed. Bakers and confectioners can choose to make a complicated glaze with gelatin and neutral gel if they desire. Or they stick to a simple mixture of chocolate and butter for the shine.

What does an opera cake taste like?

An opera cake is a deliciously balanced dessert, with no flavour overpowering the other. Packed with the flavour of nuts, chocolate and coffee, it is actually one of the most famous and sought after flavour combinations in the world; which is hard to not like by anyone out there.

Variations of the opera cake:

The classic recipe can be altered in various ways to innovate and add personal touches to the cake; which is why homemade opera cakes are simply the best. I have even had a raspberry opera cake. It bore a similarity to the original cake in terms of the structure, but has a completely different taste to it. The classic sponge, however, remains the same; though some people might add a bit of pink food colour to it for that added appeal. Other elements of a raspberry opera include a raspberry sugar syrup, a white chocolate ganache, and raspberry buttercream, complete with a shiny pink glaze to finish the cake off.

What would your dream opera cake taste and look like? Would you add caramel to this already heavenly combination? Would you increase the strength of the coffee for that amazing espresso hit-in-the-mouth?

Let us know in the comment section below.

Ten Best Places To Visit In Europe

By

Sreya

-

April 3, 2020

0

The world is on lockdown, and everything feels like a scene out of a dystopian-era movie. It definitely feels like the worst time to post a blog on the wonders of travelling. But don’t feel too bad, things will soon be alright. And when they get better, you could use these pointers to your advantage, get away from the boring couch and Quarantine, and on a backpacking trip far, far away to European nations.

A nation with infrastructural beauty that quite often remains unparalleled, Europe is home to several beautiful monuments, architecture that is simply exquisite and natural wonders with stories that remain unheard. Here is our list of the top ten places you should visit on a trip to Europe.

10. Venice.

Where the roads are water, and the cars are boats. Venice is definitely a city like no other. With its typical style of European architecture, Venice gives off the same kind of calming energy as comes with an expedition in Europe. However, what puts it into our top ten is the reason its often most talked about – Its roads.

Venice has canals which serve as the pathways from building to building. The city lives entirely around the canals. The only way to navigate through is on a boat. Where it does lose some points is the smell. Venice has canals of seawater. Along with the smell of fish and sewage, there is the stale saltiness of the seawater that may obstruct you from truly enjoying the visual beauty that it is.

9. Amalfi Coast

This beautiful place has pristinely white buildings, all following a strict style of architecture. Amalfi Coast is the what you would call a quintessential coastal town. Located at the mouth of a deep ravine and overlooking pristine waters, the Amalfi coastline is rich in such buildings reflecting Arab-Sicilian and Greek architecture.

While it has beautiful cathedrals and hiking trails overlooking the exquisite coastline, Amalfi is a place where the best thing to do would be to sit on the docks in the evening as the sun sets and laze around the luxury hotels catering especially to visitors.

8. Santorini

Another town known for its distinctly whiter architecture, Santorini is a picturesque Greek archipelago of two islands. Santorini is home to incredibly diverse beaches, all making it a wonder in itself. Santorini is often suspected to be the original home to the lost city, Atlantis. You could prefer visiting Santorini if you have a particular affinity for history. Santorini is now known for the vivid history it houses – the archaeological attractions of Ancient Thira and Akrotiri, with ruins dating back to the 17th century BC. However, if you are looking to have a relaxing time, Santorini has one of the finest wineries in the world. It is generally very kind and safe to tourists and citizens alike.

7.Prague

Prague is a personal favourite. I have often said that if aliens ever invaded our planet, and asked to see the most beautiful parts of humanity, one of the creations we could be most proud of was the city of Prague.

An amalgamation of the bustle of the modern-day and Gothic style architecture dating back centuries, Prague is a place you would do well to visit at least once in your lifetime. Prague is also, a very budget-friendly trip, and you could truly enjoy your experience without burning through your pocket here. It is also an extremely safe city, despite its sheer size.

Also read The Best Places to travel with Kids in the USA

6. Amsterdam

Before I make any arguments in favour of Amsterdam, I would like to say – recreational drugs like marijuana are legal here. While I am not encouraging you to do them, I would like to point out that Amsterdam is probably one of the most laid-back places to visit. Amsterdam is, however, not just what infamous rumours have made it out to be.

The soils here are deeply entrenched in history, both mesmerising and saddening. Museums like the Van Gogh Museum, Verzetsmuseum and the Anne Frank House are absolute musts. Immortalised by the YA novel, ‘The Fault in Our Stars’, the canals of Amsterdam welcome you fondly for a boat tour. And if you are lucky, you shall maybe even get to consume the stars, bottled up. I am of course talking about the champagne that it is famous for. Amsterdam has friendly locals and a very ambient atmosphere, often making one nostalgic enough to visit again.

Also read A Perfect guide for an Egypt trip

5. Barcelona

Made a household name by its famous football team, Barcelona has a beauty in itself. Housing a unique style of architecture, Gothic in nature, it has many iconic buildings that you could spend ages looking at. A day in Barcelona is pure relaxation. Overlooking the Mediterranean, one can lie down and spend their evening hours on the La Barceloneta Beach. With a vibrant nightlife, there isn’t a moment in Barcelona that isn’t fun.

Also read Paris – The City of Dreams, Love and Romance

4. Florence

You haven’t had a true taste of Europe if you haven’t had a taste of France or Italy. While France is up there on our list, yet to come, we now have Florence, Italy in our top five. A city that could properly in one tour show you what Italy was all about, Florence is authentic and quaint.

And well, we shall even use this time to tell you that all of those stereotypes you heard about Italian cuisine? It’s true. Mouth-watering scents line the streets. Cobbled streets invite you to sit upon them and feast on the one dish that has originated here and has been replicated the world over – pizza. Or if it is too hot, you could always wind up with the special Italian gelato.

3. London

Rich in culture and great food, London is a city you shouldn’t miss on your way through Europe. Yes, it is your typical city, loud, a little smelly and packed. But it also has what are probably the best fish and chips in the world. Now I am not saying you should visit London just for its fish and chips, but it wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing to consider. London Tours offer trips to the Stonehenge, to the original Harry Potter theme park among many other beautiful sights.

Other such cultural attractions include the Westminister Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Churchill War Rooms. While the British cuisine isn’t what you would necessarily call inventive or tasty, as it has become the melting pot of ethnicities from numerous countries, it has now got to offer the best cuisines from all over the world, right here at London. A very accessible city due to their official spoken language being British English, London is home to tourists throughout the year.

2. Paris

I would probably not have much to say about the city of love that you wouldn’t already know. People often call Bombay the city of dreams, but out here in Europe, the dreams you’ve always had shall come to fruition under the lights of the Eiffel. Not an attraction just because of the Eiffel Tower, Paris boasts a unique style of architecture.

While each building reflects the distinctly unique European culture, the planning of the city ends up revealing something wonderful – the city itself. Planned and constructed by Haussmann, Paris follows circular planning, at whose centre lies the Eiffel Tower. If you were wondering why in every outdoor photo in Paris, one can spot the Eiffel Tower, here is your answer.

1. Rome

One would normally remember the legendary city of Rome from the phrase, “All roads lead to Rome.” And just like the proverb, our countdown has finally led us to the magnificent city of Rome. Rome is an amalgamation of everything Italy is famous all over the world over for, and then some more. Deep-rooted in its traditions and culture, Rome’s architecture and cuisine offer you a glimpse into times past. Buildings from the great eras of Julius Caesar, Octavian, Hadrian lies in ruins now, but you could always marvel at them on a day trip to the city.

And when the heat seems too unforgiving, Rome offers you a wonderful selection of gelatos, desserts and delicious brunch options to choose from. All in all, Rome ranks at our top. It has got all the qualities of an ideal tourist hotspot – from being visitor-friendly to offering an enthralling experience in its history and cuisine.

With this, I end my countdown of the best places to visit while in Europe. While times right now may seem grim and unforgiving, please remember that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. We shall all come out of this period of Quarantine, healthier and more positive, and I’m sure, if you feel like this lockdown has brought out the wanderlust in you, you shall know which list to look at. We send you love and strength to get through these tough times.

10 Facts you need to know about RIVERDALE

By

YUVIKA ARORA

-

April 3, 2020

0

Riverdale is one of the best American teen drama show streaming on Netflix. Riverdale as always is full of surprises. Beginning in 2016 this show sucks you in with its epic thrill, romance, drama and mystery. Riverdale revolves around Archie from Archie comics, the girl next door Betty, his best friend Jughead and the new girl in town Veronica who tries to unravel the evils lurking out in shadows. In the process they were exposed to lot of twist and turns but that’s Riverdale is all about.

Here some of the shocking facts about Riverdale that will knock you down with a feather.

Riverdale was actually going to be a film

What you now see as a television series was actually decided to be a movie show. Yes the producers and directors of Riverdale planned Riverdale to be a movie but soon they realised that everything cannot be expressed in two or three hours so they finally announced Riverdale as a television series, a big relief to fans.

10 Facts you need to know about RIVERDALE

Riverdale cast shot multiple endings of season 1

In order hide the identity of the person who murdered Jason Blossom. Riverdale cast actually shot multiple endings. Well this is really surprising but when it comes to spoilers Riverdale can go to every ends to prevent revealing.

K.J Apa wanted Archie and Betty to be endgame

Now this might shock also after watching so much of Varchie romance. You have never expected K.J apa/Archie Andrews to be thinking of this but K.J Apa did said that he thinks the relationship between Betty and Archie is classic and he wants them to be endgame however the hot red guy isn’t the one writing the show so it will ease you to know that’s there no such information of them to be together has yet declared.

K.J Apa is a New Zealand actor

Well, yes K.J Apa who is playing role of Archie Andrews isn’t actually an American. Born in Auckland, New Zealand he first played a role of Kane Jenkins in New Zealand primetime soap opera Shortland Streets from 2013 to 2015 Also featuring in shows like the The Last Summer, The Hate You Give and A Dog’s Purpose.

Also Read Will Riverdale Season 5 bring Death of Hiram Lodge and Mr. Honey?

Riverdale is Camilla Mendes’s debut show

Riverdale is the first show of Camilla Mendes’s life, it doesn’t look the same after all her flawless acting of portraying herself a spoilt brat is one of the reasons Riverdale is at the top of everyone’s Netflix list but above all she is a really cute and funny nature

Also read Study in New Zealand

K.J Apa had to dye his hairs red for Riverdale

The hot Archie with red hairs definitely fires the show but do you know he had two his hairs red in every two weeks to completely fit in his role. The hairs of K.J apa is natural black, but in Archie comics Archie has red hairs to look exactly the character in Archie comics he has two dye his hairs in every two weeks.

Also read EPIC SHORT STORIES BY RABINDRANATH TAGORE

Madelaine gave the auditions for Betty Copper

The hot red beauty of Riverdale Cheryl Blossom which actually steals the show by her acting but do you know that she was firstly asked to give auditions of Betty Cooper. According to sources the character of Cheryl was not revealed during the auditions.

Also read Shades Of Life(Opens in a new browser tab)

Lili Reinhart admitted Riverdale has damaged her hairs

Not only K.J Apa but Lili Reinhart also had to undergo to look flawless in the show. In an interview she said ‘My hair is damaged as hell from being on my show and just from heat styling is general’ Lili said ‘S I try to take good care of my hair’, the ponytail causes me stress. It takes a long time than you think, longer than you’d think, and it’s really annoying and very frustrating. It’s just the fact that it’s hard to get it perfect… That’s my biggest struggle. Being on camera, you can’t have flyways, so I’m looking at my haed probably 70 times a day to make sure that my hair is in place. I hate that it’s very high maintenance.’ She added.

Also read Top 10 Countries Of The World With Similar Flags

Camilla, Lily and K.J were not selected during the auditions of Riverdale

We all the love onscreen chemistry of our Riverdale team and what excites us more is how nicely they paired up in the show, the way the quad lit the show is remarkable but what if I say that out of these four central character only Cole Spouse was selected and Camilla Mendes, Lili Reinhart and K.J Apa were not selected during the auditions but luckily they were later called for the same. Its really that they were selected at the end because Riverdale can’t be imagined without these four.

Also read Top 10 Onscreen couples we really miss!!

K.J Apa broke his hand in season one finale

In season one finale we all saw Archie Andrews who rescued Cheryl Blossom from drowning in a frozen lake. During the scene when he was smashing the ice, he wasn’t actually punching the real ice. When asked from him he said ‘That was gnarly day of shooting. I’ll tell you that much.’ Apa further added ‘I wasn’t really punching the ice, but I got a little bit too excited. I was punching the foam mat that was placed on the ice. It was cold, so I didn’t really feel it. It wasn’t until 20 minutes after that I realized I broke my hand. I didn’t tell anyone.’

The curious history of the red velvet cake

By

Muskan Ahuja

-

April 3, 2020

0

Red Velvet Cake — red velvet cake with cream and strawberry

Gen Z has had it enough with the chocolate truffle and pineapple cakes that so dominated our childhood, and for want of a better alternative, it is the red velvet cake that is trending on the charts now. And while store bought red velvet cakes with cream cheese frosting and strawberries for décor maybe the perfect way to celebrate one’s birthday or ring in the New Year; nothing can beat a good homemade red velvet cake.

And since the cake is getting only more and more famous with each passing day, it only makes sense to learn a bit about the interesting history behind this interesting flavour.

The origin of the red velvet cake:

The velvet cake dates back to the Victorian era, where it was a fancy dessert enjoyed by the upper classes. The term ‘velvet’ in itself suggested how the cake was a delicacy in itself, with a soft and velvety crumb.

Fast forward to the Second World War, when foods were scarce and hence were rationed. Bakers of those times had no options but to use boiled beetroot juice to enhance the colour of their cakes and make it more visually appealing. Additionally, since beetroot was cheap, it acted as a great filler in a lot of recipes, and also helped to retain moisture. This is how the cakes ended up being red, and hence the name ‘red velvet cake’.

Interestingly, traditional recipes never called for any artificial food colouring. Instead, the red colour was a result of the beetroot juice, as well as due to the unprocessed cocoa powder that was used back in those times. (Cocoa powder these days is Dutch-processed, which means that it is alkalinized to remove the acidity of the cocoa powder). That is to say, the cocoa powder was acidic, and contained what is known as anthocyanins. These anthocyanins are naturally occurring pigments that turn red in the presence of an acid. And since a traditional red velvet cake will always call for acidic ingredients such as buttermilk and vinegar; the cake batter is red as a result of this scientific reaction.

However, it was not long before the red velvet cake was highly commercialized, and Adams Extract, a company from Texas, introduced the red food colour to popularize the cake and bring it to kitchens across America. In fact, the original recipe of the cake is extremely popular in New York’s famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, which has gone as far as to call the red velvet cake the ‘Waldorf-Astoria Cake’. Many, however, argue that it is a southern recipe, and a traditional red velvet cake will always call for a French style roux icing, which is also known as ermine icing. These days, however, cream cheese frosting and buttercream frosting are much more popular and synonymous with the red velvet cake.

Of late, the cake and its mini version-the red velvet cupcake- has gained much popularity in Europe and the USA.

Also read Japanese CheeseCake Recipe

Popular versions of the red velvet cake:

Ice cream with red velvet cake dessert – Color Filter Processing

Variations of the red velvet cake are also gaining a lot of popularity these days, with home bakers and chefs across the globe adding their own innovation and personal touch, from the red velvet cake to the red velvet icecream cake, and from the keto red velvet cake to the vegan red velvet cake. Not only this, the flavour has increased so much in popularity these days, that it is not uncommon to come across red velvet cookies, red velvet brownies, red velvet brownies, red velvet shakes and smoothies, and so much more. Red velvet protein powders, waffles, alcohols, etc. are also gaining more and more popularity these days, and the flavour and scent is now also used for candles, soaps, air fresheners, etc.

You can easily make a red velvet cake at home from scratch, using just basic ingredients; though all modern recipes will definitely call for lots of food colour. This is because the cocoa powder these days is all Dutch processed, and in the absence of any natural scientific reaction; a colouring additive is needed. Moreover, with the commercialization of the flavour, most people tend to associate a good red velvet cake with a stark bright red colour, and anything less fancier than that is discarded on the grounds of not being authentic enough.

But to face the bitter reality, such huge amounts of artificial food colours are not really that good for our health, and if you saw the amounts of food colouring going in, you too would definitely avoid consuming a red velvet cake from a store. So, the next time you head out to buy a red velvet cake, make sure that you don’t just go on looks and colour, but prefer an authentic place which is probably serving you a much more genuine and healthier, though less appealing version of the dessert.

Also read Veg Cake Recipe to Enliven Summer

Baking the perfect red velvet cake at home:

If you are planning to make one at home, nothing can be better for you. Look for recipes that call for beetroot juice, since that is the ideal and original way to do it; but if you really cannot, stick to unprocessed cocoa powder. Some food colour, in limits and moderation, would do no harm; but be sure to buy one from a genuine brand, to limit the intake of harmful chemicals in your body.

Here is a super easy red velvet cake recipe for you to try at home:

Ingredients:

½ cup unsalted butter

½ cup caster sugar

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla essence

1 ¼ cup flour

1/8 cup unprocessed cocoa powder

½ tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. salt

½ cup buttermilk

1 tsp. red food colour

Method:

Preheat oven to 180 C.
Cream together the butter and sugar till light and fluffy, and add the egg in parks.
In a separate bowls, mix together all the dry ingredients, and add half of this dry mix to the first bowl.
Alternate with the buttermilk, vinegar and food colour, beating well to combine.
Pour the batter in a greased cake tin, and bake for around 30 minutes, or till a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Until then, happy baking!