Every single country has a word or term to describe
it. When it comes to India, that commonly used word is ‘culture.’ Indeed,
Indian culture is talked about and recognised across the world. But what
exactly does this term encompass? And what does it mean, especially today?
India is one of the most populated countries and therefore it rose as one important market for investors worldwide. Even NFL made its way into Indian soil, with former player and coach Mike Ditka investing into creating the Elite Football League of India, which already has 8 franchises and its growing every year. The goal is to make the game as profitable as the American one, who gathers attention worldwide with people placing bets on the NFL SuperBowl odds. But what exactly makes India so attractive to foreigners and investors and why is its culture so fascinating?
Simply put, Indian culture is not one single thing. It is at home with influences Indian and foreign and does not discriminate in the learning and imbibing of the process. Its culture is a combination of food, languages, religions, art forms, entertainment and martial arts, among many other things. Here are some of the salient points of Indian culture.
Religious harmony
India has a culture of religious tolerance and harmony. Some of the oldest religions in the world have successfully, although sometimes with violence, have made their home here. These include Islam and Christianity. The majority of the country follows Hinduism, a polytheist, pantheist religion. Considered the oldest religion in the world, Hinduism is the reason for some of the most spectacular temples and temple complexes seen anywhere in the world. Temples served as places of meeting and creating social bonds. They have some of the most impressive architecture seen anywhere in the world.
Family
The traditional family structure is large, and
includes extended family, generations living under one roof. Today, the joint
family has given way to nuclear families, comprising of the couple and a child
or two. Grandparents visit, and often stay for long durations. Many of the
family values continue to hold center stage. In fact, the popular belief is ‘Vasudhaiva
Kutumbamkam.’ When translated from the Sanskrit, it means, ‘the world is
one family.’
Geological Diversity
The lay of the land is as much a part of the culture of India, as any of its other aspects. India offers such a wide array of geology and geographical feature. The Deccan plateau and the Central Indian plateau, the spectacular coastline, the Himalayas and the ranges and a land fed by rivers creating rich fertile soil. Whether you seek hills or plains, meadows or oceans, deserts or backwaters, you’re bound to find something you need in India that will dazzle you.
Languages
Unlike many other countries that have few modes of
communication, India has 22 official languages. It’s the number of mother
tongues spoken in the country that’s the most astounding. The number stands at
1652! Yes, it’s true that the most commonly used languages number the low
hundreds, but this record number of languages is pretty spectacular. The
language of Tamil is spoken in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu and is one of
the most significant classical languages of the country. There is no dearth of
the written language as well. Among the major scripts used in India are Devnagari
and the Roman script.
A sign of welcome
Unlike the hearty handshake of the western world and
the deep bow of the Japanese, the normal Indian greeting is a folded hands
action. Both the palms are brought together. The word Namaste or Namaskar
accompanies this action. This literally means- I bow to you. It is considered a
mark or respect. Different states and groups have their own forms of the Namaste,
and often include greetings based on religious beliefs too.
Literature
From the rich literature in Tamil dating back to over 2000 years to the modern explosion of writing and publications, the literature of the country is rich, vibrant and ever-growing. Today, literary festivals abound and are great opportunities for readers to meet writers. Regional languages enjoy wide readership and create passionate debate as well. Writing also extends to the large number of newspapers and articles that the average Indian starts their day with.
The universe functions in mysterious ways. A small change in one part of the world can trigger disastrous responses in a completely different time zone. A number of these phenomena have been explained via different theories. These theories might sound bizarre at first, but are backed by science and have provided explanations for numerous events that have occurred throughout history.
1. Butterfly effect
Source: New Atlas
The butterfly effect is used as a metaphor for a branch of mathematics named the Chaos Theory. The chaos theory states that a small change in a complex system can affect the behavior of the entire system. This process might be slow, but it will happen eventually. Unlike conventional science, which deals with predictable, linear phenomena, the chaos theory addresses unpredictable happenings and non-linear phenomena. The butterfly effect derives its name from its most prominent example, which relates to a butterfly and a hurricane. The example states that the fluttering of a butterfly in New Mexico can eventually cause a hurricane in China. These two might seem like distinct unrelated events but are connected and dependent on one another in perplexing ways.
2. Halo Effect
The halo effect is an inherent bias in humans that causes them to favor people or entities that are more attractive and have a higher degree of visual appeal. The halo effect is usually based on first impressions and is closely related to physical attractiveness.
The halo effect is very commonly seen in job interviews, where the better attire of a candidate is directly correlated with a higher degree of intelligence and smartness. Marketing industries have been using the halo effect for advertisements for decades now. A celebrity or a popular figure is usually associated with a brand to increase its popularity. The consumers relate the product to the celebrity directly, increasing its demand.
The opposite
of halo effect is called the Devil Horns effect. This effect states that
negative traits of an entity make it seem overall less attractive. The entity
thus ends up receiving little or no attention.
The halo
effect was first described by Edward Thorndike in 1920 in one of his research
papers. His study involved rating a group of soldiers based on certain
characteristics. It was concluded that soldiers with better physique scored
higher ratings in almost all fields, including intelligence and character. This
observation implied to the fact that the physical fitness of soldiers helped
them in scoring better in completely unrelated fields as well. Edward titled
his paper “A Constant Error in Psychological Ratings” and the term
halo effect has been used to explain a number of phenomena since then.
3. Mozart Effect
source: http://www.elizabethjaxon.com
The Mozart
effect theory states that listening to classical music has a direct impact on
the brain and can boost short term intelligence. Scholars at the University of
California conducted an experiment on a group of children that were divided
into parts. One of the groups was made to listen to Mozart, while the others
were either made to sit in silence or listened to soft relaxation music. It was
concluded that students listening to Mozart showed increased spatial reasoning
skills. This increase in intelligence was however short lived and lasted only
ten to fifteen minutes.
The same
study was later performed on older kids, between three to five years in age.
The children were divided into groups. Kids from one of these groups were made
to take music lessons, while children in the other groups were taught lessons
like computer. After a period of six months, the kids learning music showed a
30 percent increase in spatial reasoning skills as compared to kids in other
groups. This increase was also short-lived but lasted for almost twenty-four
hours. The duration of the effect was thus found subjective to age and the
length of exposure to music.
4. Pygmalion Effect
Source : http://tech.co
The Pygmalion effect is a psychological phenomenon stating that higher expectations from a goal increase a person’s performance in achieving the goal. The opposite of the Pygmalion effect, called the Golem effect, has a similar implication and states that lower expectations from a target lead to decreased performance.
Robert Rosenthal and Lenore Jacobson conducted research on elementary school children which led to interesting results. The teachers of the elementary class were told that one-fifth of their students were exceptionally smart and unusually intelligent. These kids were labeled as the “gifted” kids of the class. Interestingly enough, the “gifted” kids were chosen at random from the class itself and were just the same as their peers. After the study was over, it was seen that the labeled “gifted” section of kids showed a higher increase in their IQ level as compared to their classmates. The researchers reasoned that this behavior was attributed to the teachers paying more attention to the “gifted” kids, and providing them with more encouragement than others. These kids thus ended up excelling as a result of higher expectations.
5. Trickle-down effect
Source: https://www.slideshare.net/VinitaMathur
The
trickle-down effect of economics states that the benefits enjoyed by the higher
section of society gradually trickle down to the lower strata. These benefits
might range from fashion trends to normal goods. Newer goods are first released
in fewer numbers, making them a luxury which only the higher class can afford.
The goods get more exposure, thus increasing their market. The demand
increases, which affects the price and the goods are made affordable for the
lower classes, eventually losing their “luxury” status.
The trickle-down effect was first studied by Rudolf Von Jhering in the 19th century. He studied the trickling of fashion trends from the upper to the lower classes until it became available and popular among everyone. He studied that fashion trends adopted by celebrities turned popular among their followers. The followers then started adopting a similar style of fashion. The trend faded away once the style had been adopted by a large section of society. The upper strata then adopted new trends and the cycle continued.
6. Hundredth monkey effect
Source: http://projectavalon.net
The
Hundredth monkey effect explains that once a critical number of people achieve
awareness about an idea or a fact, the idea communicates to the rest of the
entire community.
A study was
performed on the island of Koshima in Japan in 1952 where a group of monkeys
was given sweet potatoes rolled in sand. The monkeys liked the potatoes but
were bothered by the sand. One of them, a baby monkey named Imo, came up with
an idea of washing the potatoes in a nearby stream, thereby getting rid of the
sand. She shared this with her mother and her play-mates and a bunch of monkeys
soon started washing their potatoes. The idea, however, was not vastly
propagated and a number of monkeys still ate sandy potatoes. Months passed by
and the process of monkeys learning to wash their potatoes was very gradual.
However, one day in the fall of 1958, the scientists observed that the idea of
washing potatoes had propagated over the sea. Colonies of monkeys and even
monkeys from other nearby islands had suddenly started washing their potatoes.
This behavior was unforeseen by the researches and formed the basis of the
hundredth monkey effect. Hundred being the assumed critical number here. Once a
certain critical number was achieved, the idea communicated to the rest of the
community, and all monkeys started washing their sweet potatoes.
7.Placebo effect
Source: Voxox
The Placebo effect states that a psychological belief of being under medication tricks the brains of patients into believing they are actually under a treatment, helping them recover faster. Patients are given fake shots or pills and the results are often recorded. It is important to understand that a placebo is just a psychological relaxation and not a real cure. A study conducted on asthma patients divided the patients into two groups and provided one with inhalers. These inhalers were fake and were only installed with air. The other group was made to sit idle in a room. The patients were checked after a few hours and neither of the groups showed any medical improvement. However, when asked for personal opinions, the group on fake inhalers claimed that they felt better post taking the inhaler.
Placebos are
usually used in company with other medicines. These have gained immense
popularity, especially in the past few years, and have proved successful in
helping the treatment of pain management, stress-related insomnia, and cancer
treatment side effects like fatigue and nausea.
The Renaissance in Europe was a period from the late 13th to the 17th century. It is associated with the flow of modern thoughts and ideologies across Europe that further led to innovations. This period had profound impacts on trade, science, and culture of Europe. The renaissance is one of the best examples of the snowball effect, where one advancement paved the way for another.
Renaissance and Art
Among the many fields that Renaissance influenced, art remains the most touched. The period of Renaissance revolutionized the traditional style of painting and produced some of the masterpieces of all time. Artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, and numerous other delineated works of art that remain unmatched even after centuries. Withpaintings being used as a medium of expression of thoughts and ideas, the Renaissance marked the beginning of modern art.
This article sums up 5 of the most remarkable paintings of the
Renaissance.
1. Mona Lisa
Source: www.handmadepiece.com
Known for its mysterious smile, Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo Da Vincifrom around 1503 to 1519. Mona Lisa is the portrait of a lady, who is believed to be the wife of Francesco del Giocondo. The painting is drawn on wood, using a technique called sfumato. This style of painting involves repetitive applications of thin layers of paint. It is a time-consuming technique and is supposedly the reason why Mona Lisa took so long to be completed. The painting was drawn in Florence, where Vinci resided from 1500 to 1508, and presently resides in the Louvre museum in Paris, France. Mona Lisa cannot be sold or bought under the France Heritage Law and is worth approximately $800 million.
Ever since its creation, Mona Lisa has been the center of numerous claims. Two of these beliefs re the most popular. One, that the eyes of the painting follow the observer, and two, that the painting seems happy when viewed from one side, and sad from the other. While the happy-sad scenario is still under speculation, claims regarding the eye were disregarded by science. The painting was closely studied and the eye was found drawn to sit at an angle of 15 degrees from the observer.
Though always been an exceptional piece of art, Mona Lisa became particularly famous when the painting was stolen from the Louvre Museum in 1911. A number of suspects, including Pablo Picasso and Guillaume Apollinaire were arrested. An art gallery dealer in Florence later revealed that two men had tried to sell him the painting. The culprits were arrested and imprisoned and Mona Lisa returned back to her home in the Louvre Museum.
2. Primavera
Source: ItalianRenaissance.org
A classical piece of Renaissance art, thePrimavera was painted by Sandro Botticelli in the late 1400s. The meaning of Primavera is ‘spring’ in Italian, and the painting depicts the same. It is drawn with a dark background, which is in sharp contrast to the colorful figures in the foreground. The images are graceful and the painting is believed to depict a transition of seasons into spring. Venus is drawn in the center of the painting and Cupid, her son and the Roman God of love are drawn beneath her. Cupid is shown aiming at the three Graces. The three Graces in mythology often depict pleasure, chastity, and beauty. However, the context Primavera is not clear. To the left of the three Graces is Mercury, the Roman messenger of Gods, with his winged feet. The right side of the painting depicts Zephyr, the Greek God of the west wind, who is shown holding Chloris, a nymph. This nymph in mythology transforms into Flora, the goddess of spring. Flora is drawn to the left of Chloris, indicating the transition to spring.
The painting is drawn on wood, using a technique called tempera. This technique involves the mixing of egg yolks to natural pigments in order to bind it to the surface being painted. Botticelli has used this technique in a number of his other paintings, including ‘The Birth of Venus’ which is considered closely related to Primavera. Attracting thousands of visitors every year, Primavera is housed in the Uffizi Gallery of Florence, Italy.
3. The Last
Judgement
Source: Totally History
Painted on the wall behind the altar of the Sistine Chapel, The Last Judgement by Michelangelo is an outstanding piece of art. The painting was drawn on wet plaster and is one of the most complex pieces drawn by Michelangelo. This style of painting is called fresco and was particularly popular during the medieval era. The painting is religious in nature and depicts the second arrival of Jesus Christ, where he makes his last or final judgment for all humanity.
Inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, The Last Judgement contains over three hundred figures, each drawn with highintricacy. These figures are grouped into quadrants and subgroups that enhance the legibility of the painting. The center of the drawing depicts Jesus Christ, a strong muscular man, with his right arm raised. Virgin Mary, his mother, is drawn right under the raised arm. On the right of Christ are the elect, or the ones going to heaven. Some of the elects are shown rising effortlessly from their graves, while angels are shown guiding others. The left of Christ shows the damned or the ones who have sinned and are going to hell. Demons are drawn, dragging the damned to hell, and angels are shown beating down the ones who tried to escape. The painting depicts the triumph of Christ and his fair judgment and remains one of the most appreciated pieces of art until the present day.
4. Vitruvian Man
Source: My Modern Met
Painted by Leonardo Da Vinci around 1490, the Vitruvian man was one of the first few paintings to incorporate science into art. The sketch is drawn on a notebook and is surrounded by writings on its sides. These writings provide an insight into the sketch, along with the details of the drawing. The painting depicts an ideal man, drawn to fit both a circle and a square. The man is drawn with four arms and legs. Two of these arms are shown touching the edges of the square, while the other two touch the sides of the circle. The sketch is drawn with ultimate precision and the navel of the man falls right at the center of the circle. The Vitruvian man, viewed in different manners, gives a total of sixteen poses.
Philosophers have suggested different theories interpreting the circle and the square. Some suggest that the square symbolizes the earth, while the circle symbolizes the divine. An ideal man is thus microcosmic, inheriting values from both, the earth and the divine. Other theories symbolize the circle as feminine and the square as masculine. The Vitruvian Man, in this scenario, depicts a perfect balance between masculinity and femininity. Located in Gallerie dell’ Accademia in Venice since 1822, the Vitruvian man has attracted thousands of visitors every year and has inspired uncountable young artists.
5. Sistine Madonna
Source: allart.biz
The Sistine Madonna, painted by Raphael in 1512 was commissioned by Pope by Julius II as an altarpiece for the church of San Sisto in Piacenza. It is one of the last six Madonnas painted by Raphael prior to his death in 1520. The painting is religious and depicts Mother Mary holding Christ in his arms. The medium used is oil on canvas.
The subjects of the painting include Mother Mary, Jesus
Christ, two cherubs, Saint Barbara and Saint Sixtus. Madonna, i.e. Mary is
drawn at the top, standing on a bed of clouds. She is holding baby Jesus and
both of them have a terrifying expression on their faces. To the left of the
painting is Saint Sixtus, who is shown pointing one of his fingers out of the
painting. The right of the painting shows Saint Barbara, the only figure in the
painting possessing a serene expression. The bottom of the painting has two
cherubs, looking at the figures above. The cherubs gained extensive popularity
and have been copied and used extensively in almost all fields, ranging from
stamps to toiletries.
The terrifying expression of the Jesus and Mary incited curiosity in a number of philosophers, who proposed different theories supporting their interpretations. However, the most believable theory until the recent days relates the expressions to the location where the painting was initially supposed to be placed. The painting was meant to be installed behind a choir screen that would’ve faced a crucifix attached to the screen. Jesus, in the painting, sees his death, resulting in the terrified expression. The finger of Saint Sixtus is also supposed to point to the crucifixion. Other theories state that the finger of the Saint points to the viewer, and Saint Barbara is drawn gazing at the onlookers. Located in the Old Masters Gallery in Germany, the painting poses a mystery that yet remains unsolved.
These paintings, though hundreds of years old now, continue to be a source of inspiration for young students and budding artists. The art of the Renaissance still remains unmatched and appreciated all over the world, adding to the heritage of the country to which they belong, and attracting thousands of visitors every yea
Gopura (or gopuram) tower of Virupaksha Temple. Hampi, Karnataka, India
Wanderlust is nothing but a strong desire to travel. I’m sure most of you would be travel lovers or at least would be having that one family member or friend who loves travelling. India is a rich and diverse country when it comes to different languages, cultures, cuisines, and people. As a matter of fact, the topology and climate in all the cities and states are also very different.
There is a kaleidoscope of places to visit in India be it the North part or South. One such place that is a treat to visit is the land of boulders, a village in the Southern state of Karnataka called Hampi. Situated near the Tungabhadra River, the center of the Vijayanagara Empire and famous for the abundant temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are enough reasons why Hampi should surely be one of the places on your bucket list to tick off when in India. Let’s Dive into the most fun things to do at Hampi.
Fun Things to do at Hampi
1) Bouldering
Bouldering is a special form of rock climbing. If
adventures excite you ,then bouldering is surely the thing for you. What better
a place than Hampi to enrol yourself for a one day course or be a part of the
bouldering camps which last for 2 or 4 days. So all you adventure freaks must
visit Hampi and try your hand at bouldering. It is definitely one of the fun
things to do at Hampi.
2) TEMPLE HOPPING
Hampi is known for the numerous temples and ancient architecture present here. The Virupaksha temple in Hampi is famous because of the presence of an elephant. The elephant blesses the people offering him Prasad by keeping his trunk over their heads. The elephant is considered to be a form of Goddess Lakshmi.
Ancient ruins in Hampi. Hampi Bazaar, Hampi, Karnataka, India
If you are a fan of sunsets then you cannot miss the
sunset at the Monkey temple in Hampi. It is located on the other side of Hampi.
You need to cross the Tungabhadra river using a Coracle or Taxi Boat. Situated on top of the Anjayena Hill. It
marks the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. It is a 600 step journey to the hilltop.
A scenic view can be witnessed here.
Cycle Boat rides are something one must try when in Hampi. They are nothing but light weight, circular boats called coracles. They are used to get to the other side of the Tungabhadra river and these short rides are a lot of fun.The Royal Enclosure is yet another marvellous place to visit when in Hampi. This area is densely occupied by the military and courtly structures. It used to be the citadel of the Vijayanagara capital. Right now it is only used to provide connectivity to various structures. When in Hampi one of the fun things to do is definitely temple hopping.
3) Street Junkie shopping
All you shopaholics have to check out the Hampi
bazaar or the flea market as it is called there. From Hippie ornaments,
fabrics, baggie harems, loose dresses, hippie kurtas, beaded silver jewellery
to what not, the list is never-ending. Hand-made leather bags and Buddhist
antiques are also sold in many shops. All of these items are available at a
very reasonable price and I’m sure you will be satisfied by your purchases at
the flea market here. Street junkie shopping is definitely one of the fun
things to do when in Hampi.
4) Delicious food
Who on earth does not want to eat tasty and
delicious food? I guess no one. Since
Hampi is a village located in the north of Karnataka, it is famous for the
typical extravagant south Indian thali. Right from idli, dosa, chutney,
vegetable curry, rasam, papad to rice. It’s a treat to the stomach of a hungry
soul.
Hampi also has a lot of rooftop cafes and
restaurants which are famous for their continental and north Indian dishes. The
good ambience and central location make them amazing places to have a meal.
Sasi cafe and the evergreen cafe are famous for the same.Hampi witnesses a very
tropical hot weather and the best way to survive the heat is coconut water. The
coconuts here are really huge and the water is extremely sweet. They are a must
try. The local people here call coconut water Eliner. This is undoubtedly one
of the fun things to do when at Hampi.
5) Bike riding on the Hippie Island
The gear-less scooters called mopeds are a lot of
fun to ride. If you are someone who loves bike adventures just hire one for a
day and explore the place. Unfortunately, they are only available on the other
side of the river, on the Hippie island now. Impecabily one of the fun things
to do at Hampi.
6) Lakeside Views
About 5 km away from Hippie Island, there is a beautiful lake surrounded by rocks near Sanapur. The lovely breeze and isolated location help you rejuvenate. Cliff jumping is another adventure you can try here. Deadly crocodiles are waiting right under the cliff to pay you a visit. It’s an experience of a lifetime if you are a risk taker. Hampi is a place to do fun things and enjoy to the fullest. Your trip will be a sheer waste of time if you don’t come here and try out these amazing adventurous things. So don’t miss out on them as they are the most fun things to do at Hampi.
The pitter patter outside, marked the beginning of monsoon. The dark clouds hover around and quench the earth’s thirst. Vacations are already over for some schools and colleges. While it becomes a struggle for some night-owls, there are others who try their best to be presentable enough for the day. While we are talking about looking presentable our outfit matters a lot for us. Some of us spend minutes (even hours) to think of that perfect look and then spend minutes bawling our eyes out when it just doesn’t come together. The important thing here is. We try protecting ourselves from the rain with gumboots and raincoats. But what about our face? No, not from the rain drop splashes but the sun rays. What about the sunscreen? Sounds crazy to some, right? Well, it’s not. We are filled with loads of myths when it comes to beauty and skincare. Let’s bust one more today.
Repeat after me the mantra to getting a less damaged skin,
“SUMMER, SPRING, RAINY, WINTER, SUNSCREEN IS ALWAYSTHE ANSWER.”
There might be many questions popping in many minds now. Let’s try to get the answers to some Whys, How’s and When’s.
What is a sunscreen?
It’s a very simple word for all of us, isn’t it? But what does it actually mean?
Sunscreen, also known as sun block, is a product that is used in order to prevent sun tanning and lessen the possibilities of skin cancer. This product has different kinds of consistency for their respective uses and roles. In general, it is available in lotion, get, spray, foam and stick forms. Every formula has their unique application.
The main purpose of this product is to absorb or reflect some of the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays and thus protect against any sun burn or tanning.
Depending on the mode of action; sunscreen can be classified into two types:
Physical Sunscreens– these reflect the Sunlight.
Chemical Sunscreens– these absorb the UV light.
Why to use a sunscreen?
In a layman’s point of view, sunscreen is used only to prevent tanning. But that’s not the only reasons for which a sunscreen is used. Let’s focus on some important factors as to why one should use a sunscreen.
Sunscreen is very important to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. They are in two forms- UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays are most commonly associated with skin aging, these beams cause fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots that make skin look prematurely older. UVB rays are the ones most commonly associated with sunburns. But unlike UVA rays; UVB beams cannot pass through glass. And both UVA and UVB rays are carcinogens.
American Cancer Society recommends the use of sunscreen as it helps in prevention of squamous cell carcinomas. In simple words, it helps prevent the cancer cells which can cause skin cancer and also reduce the risk of melanoma. Protection from UVA is known to be important for the prevention of skin cancer. Proper use of sunscreen can also slow or temporarily prevent the development of wrinkles, moles and sagging skin.
Points to remember while choosing
Many sunscreens do not block UVA radiation. To get a better indication of their ability to protect against skin cancer and other diseases associated with UVA radiation, the use of broad-spectrum (UVA / UVB) sunscreens has been recommended and the use of the term “Broad Spectrum” on the label sunscreen products is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Sunscreens are generally rated and labeled with a sun protection factor (SPF) that measures the fraction of sunburn-producing UV rays that reach the skin. For example, “SPF 15” means that 1⁄15 of the burning radiation reaches the skin through the recommended thickness of sunscreen. The SPF number has always been a great deal of discussion while choosing a sunscreen.
Dermatologists commonly recommend a sunscreen with SPF 30. It is so because, SPF 30 blocks 97% of the sun’s rays. Even though SPF with high numbers might block slightly more of the rays but no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s rays. Also, the higher ones last the same amount of time as the lower ones.
Which type to choose?
There is a wide range of types sunscreen to choose from and often tends to be very confusing. Let’s get to know which one is better for what.
The creams are said to be the best for dry skin due to their high moisturizing capability.
Gels are a treat to the hairy areas because of their own unique features.
The sunscreen sticks are better used around the eyes as it gives free access to spread and blend in that region. The same as a stick concealer.
The sunscreen sprays are more preferably used on children as they are found to very easy to apply and also easily cover the important areas.
Some sunscreens are mainly made for sensitive skin and babies. Also there are some products like moisturizers and foundations, which contain SPF in them and have multi-purposes.
The most important thing to remember is that the sunscreen should have SPF 30 and water-resistant.
Application of the product
It is advised to re-apply the sunscreen every two hours when outdoors. The sunscreen should be used in a generous amount to cover all the body parts exposed to the sun like neck, feet tops, ears etc. dry skin people should apply 15 minutes before going out. While we are applying sunscreen, we forget our lips, many a times. It is seen that skin cancer can also form on the lips. So, it is very important to protect them and keep them hydrated. Use of a lip balm with SPF 30 is highly advisable. It is also important to note that use of normal lipsticks also darkens the lips under the rays, it is important to choose the products wisely.
Some suggestions
While we have discussed briefly about the sunscreen, let’s now take a look at some popular suggestions on sunscreen.
Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry Touch Sunblock
This sunscreen is none to be one of the OG product for sunscreen. It is widely famous among the college going teens and working sector. The product claims to have Helioplex Technology which offers powerful protection against sun damage. It also claims to feel clean and light on the skin, leaves a non-shiny finish and won’t clog pores. It is said to have SPF 50+. The smaller size retails for Rs 200 only.
Biotique Sunscreens
Biotique is believed to be one of the most affordable yet best brand for skincare. The Biotique sunscreens come in different varieties based on their SPF numbers and each one of them performs really well on the skin with a light formula. The come in the variants of carrot, aloe vera, sandalwood lotions and sunflower matte gel. They also have other options life micro gold matte sunscreen, pink lentils matte look sun block and morning nectar face lotion with SPF 30. The prices vary with the products but are on a very affordable line.
Some other really good options are:
Lakme Sun Expert SPF 30 PA++ Ultra matte lotion.
Himalaya Protective Sunscreen Lotion
Aroma magic Sunblock Lotion SPF++30 UVA/UVB
Botanic love Vitamin E Sunblock SPF 50
Also, Aloe Vera gels are very helpful after a tiring day to take off the toxicity and so are the other face gels.
But why is it necessary to wear it on a daily basis? The answer to this question is that in addition to all the above mentioned reasons, the fact that, even when it’s not summer, the UV rays of the sun is extremely harmful. The damage done by sun is not restricted to a particular weather. The sun emits these harmful rays all year-round. And it is also said that, the sun damages are more in the non-sunny days. So, never let go off a single day without sunscreen.
Successful people in their respective fields are always knowledgeable and excellently skillful. They are very much through with the in and out of their areas of specialization, they belong to. They hold tremendous expertise over the subjects, they deal with. Through the power of knowledge, they succeed to win people’s respect and trust and thus become eminent. They take all measures to manage their career and business effectively. This quality increases their courage and enables them to market their ability efficiently. They remain willing to learn new things and show least reservations to any changes. This mental approach takes them to a phase of learning new things more and more and thereby they continuously sharp their knowledge.
Success may be intrinsic or extrinsic depending on the circumstances prevailed. Intrinsic success is measured by a magnitude of job/career satisfaction, fulfillment of professional wishes and self-worth; whereas extrinsic success relates to social status-quo, income level, professional hierarchy, employability, etc. A well-known psychologist Nikas Bozioneles very strongly expresses the relationship between five big personality factors linked to a successful career. Personality and behavior of a person are influenced by five major elements which are known as 5 big personality traits. They are – Neuroticism, Extroversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. These personality traits play a vital role in accomplishing a task successfully for any person. Neuroticism representsanxiety, anger, sadness, etc., which makes a person tensed and with a tensed mind, he is unable to concentrate on any activity given to him to deal with. For a successful career, one has to overcome the negative aspects of neuroticism. However, even in the state of tensed mind, if you are able to control and calm down your anger, anxiety, and bitterness, your nervousness arise thereupon will get evaporate and the decision making probability will be enhanced to a reasonable level. The more you are able to control the negative side of neuroticism, the more you will be matured and balanced. You will be able to take correct decisions at the workplace with the help of a stable mind.
Extroversion is a state of mind which resembles a positive outlook. With this frame of mind, one can have a constructive viewpoint towards each and every responsibility he is assigned to. The rate of success will always be more. A positive outlook makes you enthusiastic towards the job entrusted to you. This will also make you social, assertive and expressive. All your assignments will reflect these qualities.
Openness is a quality that renders a person’s flexibility to embrace changes without much reluctance in life. He considers changes as opportunities, and with an unbiased mind; he takes advantage of the changes to achieve progress. Openness distracts shortcoming and the complexity of the behavioral pattern. These qualities induce the person’s ability to accept any change.
Agreeableness is also a great personality factor. This is an attitude which keeps a person agreeable to other’s opinion and thoughts. People who have thisqualitygenerally tend to agree to others’ action plans after sacrificing their own priorities. In today’s growth-oriented strategy of modern management, if you apply this personality trait, you will be more on the advantageous path. Agreeableness will drive you to the solution of a complex problem without which growth of any business or your career is next to impossible. If you show the personality trait opposite to agreeableness, the effect will be detrimental to your work environment. It is quite common that the people who would like to deal with you would usually prefer the quality of reasonable agreeableness in you. Hence, it is better to show the quality of agreeableness in all your business deals.
The last personality factor of “Big Five” is conscientiousness. This quality gives the person the ability to practice self-discipline. It also makes a person more dutiful and a believer in a goal-oriented approach. This type of person thinks immensely before acting. He does not like irrational behavior and would avoid indulging into an impulsive action. He does not give importance to gratification. He firmly sticks to the rules, regulations and accordingly set principles and takes the utmost care in planning, organizing and prioritizing any activity.
The three out of five personality factors i.e. Extroversion, Neuroticism, and Conscientiousness play a very effective role in the successful performance of an individual. Extroversion and conscientiousness create a desire in a person to achieve the target. This success is an extrinsic type. Extroversion creates a feeling of sociability, mingling ability and a quality of planning in a person. This quality when coupled with conscientiousness gives rise to the importance of self-discipline and makes the person more determined towards the set targets; no matter how hard it could be.
On the contrary, neurotic people are more anxious whose confidence level is usually very low; they are less achiever. This personality factor represents a negative trait, but when coupled with other personality factors, it produces positive results. Neuroticism reflects negativity with regard to both intrinsic and extrinsic type of success. Agreeableness scores positively to intrinsic success. People who have inherent agreeableness show good progress in their career and they are complacent with their jobs. They are not job-hoppers types. Their self-worth value is quite high in society.
People who are eager to accept new challenges and who keep an open approach to concentrate on the constructivefeedback of others remain successful in their career. They are more confident, self-motivated and content with their life, career and their relationship with others. On the contrary, people whoadopt a narrow and closed path of career are vulnerable to intrinsic success due to a low content of openness factor.
If you have an openness personality factor, you will be more successful in your career and will be able to develop an excellent relationship with your peers and colleagues as well as with your family, relatives, and friends. This personality trait will lead you to a path of development whereby you will be able to find out a real definition of success. All above “big five” personality factors are interdependent to each other. Neuroticismprima-facie may look to be a negative trait, but agreeableness and openness pacify the negative impact thereof. he negative impact thereof. However, neuroticism equally plays a tremendous role in the achievement of success in life. If you can learn all these techniques or by default, you possess all these qualities, there is bound to be a success in your career.
The changing lifestyle of modern times poses new health challenges every day. Survival on junk food, paired with the lack of regular physical exercise only contributes to higher risks of numerous diseases. It is, therefore, necessary to detoxify your body every once in a while to keep it fit and going.
What is a Juice Cleanse?
Juice cleanse is a process of detoxification of the body via theconsumption of fresh fruit and vegetable juices. Juice cleanse involves abstinence from solid food, thereby saving the body from having to digestfats, additives, and countless other toxins. Juice cleanse, in particular, started in the 1940s, with the “master cleanse” By Peter Glickman and has gained tremendous popularity in the past few years.
Juice cleanses are safe to practice, however it is advisable to contact your doctor before starting one. Beginners are advised to start with a day of juice cleanse a week, which is then raised to 3 days per week. Post the body getting accustomed to a liquid diet, juice cleanses can be practiced for up to 21 days a month.
Signs that your body needs detoxification:
• Weight gain
Most toxins arelipophilic, implying that they get stored in the form of fat. The body thus generated more fat cells to store more toxins, which eventually leads to weight gain. If our weight is continuously on the rise, despite regular exercise, it might be a call for detoxification.
Source: Getty Images
• Frequent Breakouts:
An increase intoxin levels of the body overloads the liver. The liver detoxifies and excretes these toxins via different excretory fluids. Since skin is one of the main excretory organs, removing wastes along with sweat, an increase in toxin levels causes acne and rashes.
• Constant fatigue:
Increase intoxins creates excess pressure on the adrenal glands. This pressure over elongated periods of time can lead to adrenal fatigue, which causes sleepiness and exhaustion.
• Headaches:
Toxins like aspartame and monosodium glutamate affect the brain directly, causing headaches. Frequent headaches can thus be a sign that your body is in need of a detox.
• Constipation:
A lack of antioxidants cause the toxins to build up in the blood, which leads to irregular bowel movements and constipation.
How to start a juice cleanse
Source: https://wexnermedical.osu.edu
Juice cleanses can be performed at home on one’s own or can be done under medical supervision. A pre-cleanse is advisable before going on a juice cleanse in order to avoid “healing crisis”, which is the sudden release of endotoxins in the bloodstream, leading to headache, nausea, and fever. The duration of a pre-cleanse depends upon the eating habits. a 2-day pre-cleanse works enough for Individuals who normally eat healthy, whereas people having higher junk intakes are advised a five to seven-day pre-cleanse.
Performing a pre-cleanse
Source: https://www.azcentral.com
• Drink more water:
drinking enough water is the most important part of a pre-cleanse diet as it responsible for the transportation of nutrients around the body. More water intake implies a quicker transfer of nutrients, resulting in healthier tissues. Moreover, dehydration is often mistaken as hunger by the brain, so proper water intake helps you in keeping a check on yourdiet.
Source:
• Avoid caffeinated products:
Reduce the consumption of caffeinated products including coffee, soda, and soft drinks. Cutting down on caffeine helps in dealing with headaches during the juice cleanse.
Source: Lilechka75/Thinkstock
•Eat more fruits and vegetables:
A healthy diet increases the levels of enzymes in the body, which helps in better detoxification during the juice cleanse. Eating fruits and vegetables also help in adapting the body and making it ready for the upcoming juice cleanse.
Source: https://www.silversneakers.com
• Say no to animal products:
Animal products, including dairy, require more extensive digestion and should, therefore, be avoided. The best way is to start easing the burden on your digestive system so that it doesn’t struggle during the juice cleanse.
Diet post a Juice Cleanse
After the juice cleanse is over, one should first start with
raw or lightly steamed vegetables, gradually switching to cooked vegetables and
dairy. This is very similar to the pre-cleanse diet routine. Animal products
and dairy are usually tested via consumption in small amounts before
incorporating them back in the regular schedule.
The benefits of Juice Cleanse
1. More nutrients
Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients. A juice cleanse increases the amount of nutrient intake by the body and thus promotes healthier tissues. Moreover, a glass of juice is usually made from 2-3 fruits, and therefore contains more nutrients than a raw piece of fruit. This also aids in the increase in nutrient intake.
2. Rehydration
Water is the chief fluid behind the removal of toxins from the body. Regular consumption of caffeinated drinks and beverages leads to an increase in the toxins, which are not effectively removed if the body is not hydrated enough. Juices rehydrate the body and thus help in the effective removal of toxins.
3. Healthier skin
Juice cleanses can initially lead to breakouts in certain cases, but that is just another process by which the body gets rid of toxins. In the long run, the nutrients provide for shinier, smoother and healthier skin. Coconut water and almond milk which form an integral part of any juice cleanse, provide for vitamin E, which helps in nourishing the skin and clearing up pores, making it healthier.
4. Improved digestion
juice cleanse helps in improving digestion as the body is introduced to new enzymes that make the gut function more effectively.
5. Detoxification
Our body has automated detoxifying systems that work all the time. Methods like juice cleanse help in enhancing this process. Abstinence from solid food gives the brain a rest from performing digestion, which causes the system to promote the removal of toxins instead. Our body stores toxins in fat tissues. When these tissues burn to release energy, they simultaneously release the toxins in the bloodstream, which is then eliminated via excretion.
6. Boosts energy
Laziness is usually a result of increased levels of toxins in the blood. Detoxification helps in removing these toxins from the bloodstream, making you feel fresh and energetic.
7. Rapid Weight loss
Juicing leads to a decrease in the water massof the body which in turn reduces weight. This reduction in weight is only due to less intake of calories and is therefore short-lived. Long term weightloss can only be achieved via a healthier lifestyle. It is important to understand that juice cleanses should be seen as the first step towards adopting a regular healthy lifestyle, and not as a make-up for consuming junk.
8. Stronger immunity
Fruits and vegetables are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds which help in building immunity. Moreover, the juices used in juice cleanse, or most juices, in general, are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. These help in providing protection against oxidative damaging diseases such as heart diseases and cancer.
9. Healthier hair
While there are juice cleanses that specifically target hair loss, general juicing also contains minerals like silica which help in promoting hair growth. In the case of males, the vegetable juices help in inhibiting the enzyme 5 alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT, the hormone responsible for baldness.
10. Cleanses liver
The liver is the main organ behind the detoxification of the body. The toxins are secreted under the action of enzymes via sweat, urine and other excretory fluids. Detoxification in the liver occurs in three phases. Phase one and two involve the conversion of fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble substances. These are then excreted in phase three of the detoxification cycle. Consumption of products that contain fewer toxins helps in resting the liver, rejuvenating its health.
Source: https://wellnourished.com.au
11. Helps in discovering food intolerance:
It is generally advised to test food before incorporating them back in the normal schedule post a juice cleanse. This serves as an effective method to test intolerance towards dairy, animal products or specific minerals.
12. Heals body cells
Juicing reduces free radicals and makes it easier for mitochondria to generate more energy. This helps in faster replacement of dead and aging cells. Juicing also helps promote proper DNA functioning.
13. Reduces inflammation
Juicing helps in reducing inflammation by killing free radicals in the blood. Juicing supports the liver’s detoxification process, which also helps in reducing inflammation. Moreover, there is abstinence from gluten, dairy, and alcohol, which further helps in reducing inflammations.
14. Slower aging
Toxins cause oxidation, which damages body cells. This, in turn, leads to faster aging. Detoxification reduces the oxidation effect, which slows down aging.
15. Balances body pH
The pH of a healthy human is slightly alkaline and lies between 7 to 8. This pH changes depending upon the diet. It is, therefore, necessary to consume products that help the body in maintaining the required alkaline pH. Most vegetables and fruits are alkaline-forming foods and help in increasing the pH levels of the body. This in turns helps the body to function better, keeping it healthy.
Juicing is one of the easiest methods of detoxification. It is easily accessible as most of the juices can be freshly prepared at home. Accompanied by various other benefits, a juice cleanse is worth giving a try!
Red spots occur due to many reasons, one of them being due to an allergy. The skin is delicate and hence is prone to various problems. We tend to suffer from rashes, blemishes or even red spots due to these problems. Fret not, below are some of the things which you can try to get rid of red spots on the face or body.
What causes Red Spots
Red spots can occur due to many factors such as acne, pollution, allergies among a few. Some of the reasons have mentioned below. We would be discussing some of those reasons in the list given below. Red spots can be due to birthmarks in some people. They might have a red scar or a small red dot in any part of their body, notably their hands. These birthmarks vary from people to people when it comes to its shape. They do not need immediate attention and occur due to abnormal blood vessels. Acne is one of the most common causes of red spots. Acne can be caused due to pollution or oily skin. At times these red spots can also be due to boils. A boil occurs due to a skin infection, mild in nature. Most people suffer from an allergic reaction and hence red spots are quite common. These allergic reactions lead to red spots which may or may not be itchy in nature.
Taking care of red spots at home
Before heading over to a dermatologist, all worried, use these simple methods at home to get rid of red spots at home. If none of the methods works, then head over to a dermatologist.
Use lukewarm water instead of hot or boiling water to wash your face or hair.
Avoid rubbing the red spot.Use a mild face wash and shampoo.
Don’t use any cosmetic which might have caused the red spot.
Avoid scratching the area affected.
Use anti-dandruff shampoo regularly.
Use Coconut Oil to get rid of red spots
Pure coconut oil is widely used for plenty of remedies related to skin and hair. It also helps to fight hair loss and hair fall. Coconut oil helps to rejuvenate the skin and heals damaged skin cells.
Using Coconut Oil to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Use a tablespoon of pure coconut oil (100% pure).
Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
Apply a tablespoon of coconut oil on the affected area and leave it for a duration of about 5 minutes.
Don’t forget to massage your face whilst applying the coconut oil.
Use these steps before going off to bed at night.
Allow the oil to dry overnight.
Wash your face with cold water the next day.
Repeat these steps as and when required.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar to get rid of Red Spots
Apple Cider Vinegar is a great natural remedy when it comes to fighting skin related problems. It helps to eliminate skin related problems and viruses which might cause skin problems. Apple Cider Vinegar has organic acids which don’t let the skin scar due to red spots or acne. It is also used to hydrate the skin as it helps to prevent the skin from drying.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Mix three parts of water to a part of Apple Cider Vinegar.
Wash your face with face wash and lukewarm water.
Apply the diluted mixture using a cloth or a cotton ball.
Leave the mixture for a duration of about 30 seconds.
Wash the face with cold water and pat dry using a clean towel.
Repeat the process twice a day.
Caution: Don’t forget to dilute the Apple Cider Vinegar as it can be harmful to the skin if it remains undiluted.
Using Green tea to get rid of red spots
Green tea is widely used today for a number of health benefits. It’s antioxidants properties is great for the skin and health.Green tea helps to fight acne and decreases inflammation of the skin because of the presence of tannins and flavonoids.
Using Green tea to get rid of red spots or redness on the face
Take a teaspoon of green tea.
Steep this teaspoon of green tea in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes.
Let it cool down.
Using a cotton ball, apply this mixture on the affected area of the face or body.
Wash off the affected area using cold water and pat dry using a clean towel.
Repeat as required.
Green tea has tannins and flavonoids which decreases inflammation of the skin and helps to fight acne and other skin related problems.
Using Aloe Vera to get rid of Red Spots
Aloe vera is the most widely used natural ingredient when it comes to skin related problems. It is widely being used in the cosmetics industry too due to its in numerous benefits. The gel of this tropical plant can either be applied directly on the face or can be mixed with other ingredients to form a gel or paste.
Using Aloe Vera to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Cut off a small section of an Aloe Vera plant.
Peel off the top layer and extract its gel.
Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Apply the Aloe Vera gel from the freshly cut leaf on the affected area.
Wash your face with cold water after 30 minutes.
Repeat the process daily for best result.
Using Neem leaves for Red Spots
Neem tree is also known as Indian Lilac, considered as sacred in some Indian cultures, has many benefits. It plays a vital role when it comes to natural remedies for skin and health-related problems. Neem has played a vital role in Ayurveda since ancient times. Its properties include antiviral, antibacterial, analgesic, anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory and antifungal. Due to these properties, Neem is extensively being used in the cosmetic industry. The antioxidants present in Neem slows down the skin ageing process thus giving you a younger looking skin.
Using Neem leaves to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Take some 10-12 Neem leaves in a bowl.
Boil these leaves for 5 minutes or so, avoid over-boiling.
Let the boiling water cool down.
Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat dry using a clean towel.
Apply the Neem solution overt the affected areas using a cotton ball or a cloth soaked in it.
Leave the solution for a duration of about 15 minutes.
Wash your face using cold water and pat dry using a clean towel.
Repeat the process once per day to get best results.
Using Lemon Juice to get rid of Red Spots
Lemon juice is known to be rich in minerals and Vitamin C. These minerals and vitamin C replenishes the skin cells and rejuvenates it. Lemon juice helps to add a soft and smooth texture to the skin. It also helps to fight against skin related problems such as acne and rashes.
Using Lemon Juice to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Take a small sized lemon.
Cut this small sized lemon in half.
Squeeze 2 or 3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Apply this lemon juice on the affected area using either a clean cloth or a cotton ball.
For a duration of about 15 minutes, allow the skin to soak up the lemon juice.
Using cold water, wash your face and pat dry with a clean towel.
Repeat the process 3 times a day to get a clean and redness free skin.
Using Olive oil to get rid of Red Spots
Olive oil has found its way not only in our kitchens but is also a great skin friendly remedy. It is known to repair broken and dead skin and removes flaky skin cells. It promotes the growth of new skin cells as it has a high content of Vitamin E and antioxidants. Olive oil is used for skin related problems as it helps to eliminate red spots, acne, signs of ageing, rashes and other skin related issues.
Using Olive oil to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat dry using a clean towel.
Use a small amount of extra virgin olive oil and apply it on the affected area for a couple of minutes.
Repeat this process for once a day for best result.
It can also be combined with honey to fight redness or red spots on the skin.
Using Chamomile tea to get rid of Red Spots
Chamomile is a great stress reliever. It is also being used to treat skin related problems such as acne, red spots, redness or inflammation. Using Chamomile tea helps to get relief from skin inflammation and itchiness. Due to its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties, it is a vital remedy for skin related problems.
Using Chamomile tea to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Take a teaspoon of chamomile tea leaves.
Boil a cup of water for a few minutes.
Steep the chamomile tea leaves in the cup of water for 5 minutes.
Use a clean cloth or a cotton ball to apply it on the affected area by soaking it in the chamomile tea.
allow the skin to soak up the tea for a few minutes.
Repeat the process twice a day.
Using Cold compress to get rid of Red Spots
The most convenient and easiest way to get rid of the itchiness feeling and the pain caused due to a rash or a red spot is by applying something cold onto the affected area. The cold water helps to provide you with immediate relief against pain, itching, swelling and even inflammation. You can choose from a variety of options such as cold showers, ice packs, a cold compress or even a damp cloth dipped in cold water. Cold compress works due to the fact that cold doesn’t allow the blood to flow. Hence the affected area is deprived gets limited blood supply. COld water or ice help to reduce the pain as well as the swelling associated w
Using Cold compress to get rid of Red Spots or redness on the face
Use an ice cube or an ice bag and apply it to the affected area.
Leave it for a duration of about 10 minutes.
Repeat the process twice a day for best results.
It is best to use natural ingredients to fight skin related problems as it does not harm the skin and adds a glow to it. The more you depend on chemical enriched cosmetics, the more harm you are causing to your skin. These cosmetics can deal with your problems momentarily but in the long run, can cause more damage than cure.
Greek mythology has fascinated humans since times immemorial. From references in Shakespearian plays to the naming of the celestial bodies, Greek mythology is pretty widespread. These stories in ancient times served as pillars of moral guidance and provided purpose and meaning to life. Over time, science has given logical explanations for a number of phenomena that were otherwise explained by myths, but the popularity of these stories still remains intact.
This article sums up a few of the most famous Greek mythologies:
1. The myth of Arachne
Source: https://owlcation.com
Arachne was a beautiful woman born to a famous dyer of Lydia named Idmon. She had exceptional skills in weaving and the villagers believed she was trained by Athena, the goddess of weaving herself. Being a usual mortal, Arachne was soon very proud of her skills and began boasting about it.
One day, annoyed by constant remarks of her work being compared to Athena’s, Arachne claimed that she was not taught by Athena, and could weave better than her. When Athena heard of these claims, she disguised herself as an old woman and visited Arachne. She asked Arachne to not instigate the wrath of the Gods, as it might lead to disastrous consequences. Arachne was not moved and challenged Athena for a contest to prove her skills.
Athena was instigated and transformed into her true form. The competition began and people from all over the village collected to witness this unnatural fight. While Athena’s tapestry depicted the powers of the Greek Gods, Arachne chose to weave their more amorous side. She weaved how Zeus raped the Leda, The Spartan Queen by turning into a swan, how he abducted Aegina and seduced Danae. Regardless of the depictions, both the tapestries looked nothing short of spectacular.
After the competition was over, Arachne and Athena revealed their work.
The sight of Arachne’s tapestry made Athena furious. She destroyed Arachne’s
tapestry and turned her into a spider, cursing her descendants to hang from
threads.
2. The myth of Orpheus and
Eurydice
Source: https://www.senderismoeuropa.com
Orpheus was an extremely talented musician of the ancient times. He is
believed to be the son of Apollo, the God of music. The melody in Orpheus’s
music enthralled not only the living but the non-living as well. It is said
that even rocks and trees moved in order to be closer to him.
Orpheus’s music gathered audience from near and afar. It was on one such
occasion that Orpheus met Eurydice, and fell in love at first sight. Orpheus’s
music and charm attracted Eurydice too, and the couple soon decided to get
married. Their wedding was blessed by Hymenaios, the God of marriage, and the
surrounding was filled with joy.
After the wedding ceremonies were over, Orpheus and Eurydice decided to
head back to their home. It was at this time when Aristaeus, a shepherd, and
former lover of Eurydice tried to attack Orpheus. Orpheus was cautioned and
started running away holding Eurydice’s hand. Aristaeus tried to follow them
but the couple ran fast and Aristaeus soon lost hope.
Unaware of Aristaeus’s departure, Orpheus and Eurydice kept running. It
was during the run that Orpheus felt Eurydice stumble and fall. He looked
around to find that Aristaeus had already left, and Eurydice had fallen on the
ground, bitten by a snake. Her face turned pale and she died in Orpheus’s arms.
Soon after Eurydice’s death, Orpheus decided to visit the underworld to
bring her back. He sang to Hades, the God of the underworld, and his wife,
Persephone. Moved by the despair in Orpheus’s music, Hades allowed Eurydice to
return back to the living world. He told Orpheus that his wife would follow him
to the upper land, but he was not supposed to turn, or she will disappear,
never to return.
Orpheus began his journey to the upper world, filled with joy. His heart
longed to turn around, but he kept a check on his emotions. As soon as he
reached the upper world, he turned around, only to look at Eurydice, who was
still in the dark. The promise was broken and Eurydice thus disappeared into
the dark. Orpheus returned to the underworld again, but his efforts went in vain.
Orpheus’s life changed drastically after Eurydice’s death. He lost
purpose and his music turned sad. He abandoned the company of women and was
later killed by a group of irate ladies. His soul then traveled to the
underworld, where he was reunited with Eurydice, the love of his life.
The love of Orpheus and Eurydice has inspired numerous artists, and the
myth remains one of the most popular Greek mythologies even in the present day.
3. The myth of Icarus
Source: https://www.magnoliabox.com
Icarus was the son of Daedalus, an ancient engineer known for his extraordinary skills. Daedalus initially used to live in Athens but was later sent to the island of Crete as a punishment for killing his nephew. He then worked for Minos, the king of Crete. It was in Crete that Daedalus met Naucrete, a mistress-slave of the king and fell in love with her. They got married and Icarus was born.
Minos was gifted a beautiful white bull by Poseidon, the sea god. He had
promised to sacrifice the bull to the sea, which he later refused. Angered by
Minos’s behavior, Poseidon cursed Pasiphae, Minos’s wife, to fall in love with
the bull.
Desperate for the bull’s attention, Pasiphae asked Daedalus to build a
hollow wooden cow. Abiding by the orders, Daedalus designed a beautiful hollow
cow that Pasiphae entered to seduce the bull. Their union resulted in the birth
of Minotaur, a half-bull, half-human creature.
Furious at Daedalus for building the cow, Minos ordered Daedalus and
Icarus to be imprisoned in a tall tower. Before the execution of the
punishment, Daedalus was asked to design a labyrinth that no one would ever be
able to escape. It was in this labyrinth that Minos kept Minotaur, who then
could never escape.
After being imprisoned, Daedalus was in continuous search of ways to
escape. He soon came to the conclusion that they could only flee via air since
the land and the sea were under strict supervision. Daedalus started collecting
feathers of birds that flew above the tower and stuck them with wax to design
two pairs of full-fledged wings. He gave one of the pairs to his son, along
with two pieces of advice. One, flying too close to the sun will melt the wax,
and two, flying too low will cause them to be blown away by the wind. They were
thus supposed to take extreme care of the height in order to fly safely.
Daedalus and Icarus flew off the building and were soon flying over the
sea. Taken over by the joy of flight, Icarus flew higher and higher. Daedalus
warned him once and again, but the warnings went in vain. Icarus was soon
flying high up in the sky. The heat from the sun melted the wax and Icarus fell
right into the sea, dead. Daedalus cursed himself for the death of his son, but
no amount of despair could bring his dead son back to life.
4. The myth of Oedipus
Source: Bénigne Gagneraux, Nationalmuseum, Stockholm
Oedipus was born to King Laius and Queen Jocasta of Thebes. When a priest
of the kingdom visited the baby, he declared that Oedipus would grow up to kill
his father and marry his mother. Laius, scared by the prediction, pinned
Oedipus’s feet and left him under a mountain to die. He was picked by the
shepherds of Corinth, who handed him over to the king Polybus and queen Merope.
Polybus and Merope raised Oedipus as their own son. Upon growing older, he came
to know of adoption. Oedipus then went to Delphi to ask the Priest about his
parentage.
The priest told him his fate, and horrified by the idea of killing his
father, Oedipus swore to never return to Corinth. He instead decided to go to
Thebes.
The way to Thebes had a narrow road where Oedipus encountered an old man
in a chariot. The two quarreled over giving way and Oedipus ended up killing
the old man. Upon reaching Thebes, Oedipus came to know that the Thebans were
being terrorized by a monster, who was eating them if they failed to answer a
riddle correctly. The people of Thebes also told Oedipus that the king of
Thebes was murdered on his way to find a solution to the puzzle. Oedipus
attempted the puzzle and gave the right answer. Enraged, the monster killed
itself and Oedipus was made the king of Thebes. He also married the Jocasta, the
king’s widow.
Years after Oedipus ruled the kingdom of Thebes, a man from Corinth
visited Oedipus with the news of Polybus’s death. He also said that the people
of Corinth wanted Oedipus to return to rule the kingdom. Relieved of having not
killed his father, Oedipus shared his story of the priest with his wife.
Jocasta told Oedipus to not fear priests as a similar oracle had predicted that
his son would kill his husband, but he was instead killed by a stranger on his
way to Delphi. This reminded Oedipus of his encounter with the old man, and he
realized having killed his own father. Jocasta speculated for pin marks on
Oedipus’s feet and found him to be her son. Taken aback by the truth, Jocasta
committed suicide. Ashamed of his actions, Oedipus took a pin from her dress
and blinded himself.
Oedipus was banished from Thebes and later moved to Athens, where he died
in a grove of trees called Colonus.
5. The myth of Pandora’s box
Source: YouTube:Mythology & Fiction Explained
Pandora was the first woman on earth. She was created by the Greek Gods
as a punishment to mankind. The Gods blessed her with qualities of all sorts,
making her beautiful as well as skillful. Zeus, the God of all Gods, asked
Hermes, the God of trade to teach Pandora to be deceitful, stubborn and
curious. Pandora was gifted a box by the Greek Gods, which she was not allowed
to open ever.
The curiosity instilled in Pandora could not keep her from opening the
box for long. She opened the box, and out came the illness, hardships and evil
spirits. Scared, she closed the box immediately, locking hope inside.
It is said that hope was locked in the box as a part of Zeus’s plan to
make humans suffer on disobeying the Gods. Pandora’s Box has been depicted in a
number of paintings and has been popular in artists of all eras.
Today’s super active, technologically savvy advanced generation is a carefree generation. They want each and everything at their pace and in their own way. The teenagers are getting independent quite early as compared to their parents or grandparents. They choose their own friends and their careers too. The choice of life they choose is the best in their own ways. For instance, the way a teenager spends has got a drastic difference compared to that of the teenager who spent a decade ago.
A youngster in his twenties has a different choice of hobbies than that of his elder sibling who’s just half a decade elder. Today’s PUBG teenager hardly cares to read a book be it a fiction or a Non-fiction. The trend can be seen in all the walks o life. Just like the Newspaper industry is going digital and paperless.
Fast food and preservatives industry are in demand too because the new generation has less time. They would prefer to spend the double amount on pre-cooked, preserved Canned fish than to go in a Fish market and bargain with fisherwomen for fresh fish in the fish market.
Say no to Junk foods and alcohol
The men in the late thirties would like to boast amongst their friends that their children prefer a cola or a soft drink in their water bottles and their children’s lunch-boxes filled with imported biscuits and chocolates and not the ideal sabzi-roti.
The new generation wants washing machines to wash clothes, dishwashers alongside ovens and refrigerators. The fast moving generation is depended on the technology for the daily chores. They hardly time to take care of their health. Because of the lack of exercise and stressful life, there will be some bad impacts on their health which they don’t observe at the beginning.
But later they realize their side effects. Some humans have great immunity power which prevents such kinds of side effects. But some of them may have some bad effects on their health such as because of stressful life they lost their concentrations, healthy peaceful life also because of daily uses of caffeine, tea, canned food and alcohol it may cause like sleeping disorders, serious health issues like gestational problems, infertility problems in both men and women.
Many times the couple didn’t understand what is the correct reason for their childless life. But sometimes because of caffeine, heavy preservative canned foods and alcohol may decrease the sperm count in males and infertility in women’s. High stress or pressure reduces the possibility of conceiving.
Women’s neglect some common health problems like late periods and or irregular periods. Some couples tried child after their age cross 30. Even most of the time because of family planning she needs to take contraceptive pills like ipill to avoid unwanted pregnancy which may cause a bad effect on their fertility. When such couples try for baby, at that time they have to face such problems. And at a certain point, they lose their confidence when they got many failures to have a child. Now they realize how this fast life may affect their body.
After some treatment sometimes some reasons may most probably found in women such that PCOS and PCOD or hole to the embryo sac, Overies problems, low-quality eggs generation at the time of fertility phase or bad eggs developed under the womb. But now the doctors have got success to invent new technology to recover such infertility problems and spread joy to those childless couples who tried for a baby. The technology name “IUI(Intra-Uterine Insemination)”. Yes ! it is a new treatment that doctors generally prefer for childless couples which has no side effects and also it is not more expensive as compared to IVI.
When the couple discusses with a doctor about getting help for infertility, he may suggest a new technique for fertilization is called “artificial insemination or IUI”. It’s a simple procedure with extreme no side effects, and it can help the couples who have been unable to get pregnant.
In
artificial insemination, a doctor inserts the sperm directly into a woman’s
cervix, fallopian tubes, or uterus. This common method is known as
“intrauterine insemination (IUI),” when a doctor places the sperm in
the uterus.
Why is this
helpful? It creates the trip shorter for the sperm and tries to find out any
barriers. This treatment is the first choice of doctors as a treatment for
infertility.
Having a
hard time getting pregnant? When is it an underlying health problem? Get
additional information on the signs of infertility and when to see a doctor.
Understanding Infertility -Symptoms
Infertility
occurs when you cannot get pregnant after having unprotected or regular sex for
six months to one year.
The main
symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant for a long time. Symptoms can
also depend on what is causing infertility. Sometimes no cause is found.
Signs of Potential Infertility in
Women
In women,
changes in the menstrual cycle and ovulation may be related to infertility.
Symptoms include:
• Abnormal periods. Bleeding is heavier
or lighter than usual.
• Irregular periods. The number of days
between each period varies each month.
• No periods. You have no period, or
periods suddenly stop.
• Painful periods. Back pain, pelvic
pain, and cramping may happen.
Harmon’s
problem is one of the major causes of infertility in women’s. In this case,
symptoms can also include:
• Skin changes, including more acne
• Changes in sex drive and desire
• Unwanted hair growth on the lips,
chest, and chin
• Loss of hair or thinning hair
• Weight gain
Other
symptoms of disorders that may cause infertility include:
• many women may observe Milky white
discharge from nipples unrelated to breastfeeding
• Pain during sex
Signs of Potential Infertility in Men
Infertility symptoms in men can be vague. They may go unnoticed until a man tries to have a baby.
Symptoms
depend on what is causing infertility. They can include:
• Changes in hair growth
• Changes in sexual desire
• Pain, lump, or swelling in the testicles
• Problems with erections and
ejaculation
• Small, firm testicles
When to See the Doctor
If your age is under 35 and has been trying to get pregnant without success for a year, see your doctor. Those women who are age 35 and above should consult a doctor after six months of trying.
The doctor
may suggest doing Blood, urine and imaging test to find out why you are getting
trouble to get pregnant. Also, a sperm analysis test can be done to check men’s
sperm count and the overall quality and health of sperms.
How does IUI May help in infertility problems?
Because of IUI treatment, women who crossed 40 age having a baby in her hand. IUI is a more effective and easy treatment as compared with IVI treatment. IUI helps the sperms to be fast-tracked straight to the egg for fertilization as compared to regular sex where only the strongest sperm can make it to the cervical mucus and then to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
IUI is a fertility treatment in which placing sperm inside a woman’s uterus to create fertilization. The intention of IUI is to increase the number of sperm count in the men that reach the fallopian tubes of women and accordingly increase the chance of fertilization in women.
It is a simple procedure that puts sperm directly inside your uterus, which helps healthy sperm get closer to your egg. It’s also called as donor insemination, alternative insemination, or artificial insemination. IUI works by putting sperm cells directly into women uterus around the time when she is ovulating, helping the sperm get closer to her egg. This cuts down the time and distance of the sperm to reach in the fallopian tube, making it easier to fertilize your egg.
You have to
take fertility medicines for stimulating ovulation before having the
insemination procedure. Best Semen is collected from the male partner or a
donor. It goes through a “sperm washing” process that collects a concerted
amount of healthy sperm from the semen.
Then your
doctor puts the tested sperm right into women uterus. Pregnancy happens if
sperm fertilizes your egg and the fertilized egg implants in the lining of your
uterus.
IUI – IMPORTANCE AND BENEFITS
Intrauterine (within the uterus) insemination (action of sowing) (IUI) is one of the most straightforward forms of assisted fertility treatments, its aim is to increase the number of sperm that reach and fertilize the egg on their own. The procedure involves placing the sperm inside a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization. Comparatively IUI treatment is a less invasive and less expensive option in comparison to in vitro fertilization.
Intrauterine insemination may be a comparatively easy method. It’s like having sex while not having sex. sperm cell gets into your female internal reproductive organ(Vagina) through a tube instead of directly from a male. The canal is basically treacherous for sperm cells. It’s associate acidic surroundings and sperms typically do not survive the journey into the female internal reproductive organ. those who create it to the female internal reproductive organ ought to be right wherever the egg comes out of the female internal reproductive organ at precisely the right time to fertilize it. once you rely on the chances of all of these things coming back along promptly, it appears like a miracle anyone ever gets pregnant the least bit. Intrauterine insemination is meant to require the guess out of conception and eliminate the hazards of the canal by bypassing it entirely.
If the
desired male and female wanting to bare a child they need to go through IUI procedure performed each month, success
rates may reach as high as 20% per cycle, depending on variables such as a
female’s age, whether fertility drugs were used, the reason for infertility and
more. The success rates differ from person to person, so be sure to consult the
chances of success with your fertility specialist.
Differences between IUI and IVF:-
A typical misconception is that IUI and IVF are and the same. But it isn’t true. Therefore, a general belief is that it is more of a natural form of fertility treatment.
In IUI Highest quality of sperm cell is chosen and injected into the female internal reproductive organ and left to fertilize the eggs naturally instead Eggs area unit far from the body in IVI. In IUI few medication area units used compared to IVI.
When is IUI Used?
Typically,
the process of IUI is simple. IUI is most commonly used when a male or female has
a low sperm count or decreased sperm motility. However, it can also be the
preferred fertility treatment for any of the following conditions:
1. Couples whose reasons for subfertility are unknown.
2. Ejaculation dysfunction.
3. Ovulations complications.
4.
Abnormality of the cervix.
5. Couples
with reduced sperm count or motility.
6. A hostile
cervical condition, including cervical mucus difficulties.
The success rate of IUI:-
The success
of IUI depends on many factors. maternity success rates from IUI tend to be
around a simple fraction of these for IVF. like any fertility treatment, the
younger the lady is, the upper her likelihood is of obtaining pregnant. you’re
additionally a lot of seemingly to urge pregnant if you’re taking fertility
medicine to assist stimulate your natural cycle. IUI could be a less invasive
and fewer dear treatment possibility.
Duration of IUI cycle treatment:-
The duration of the IUI treatment is the same time as that of a normal menstrual cycle i.e. on an average of 4 to 5 weeks from the beginning of the menses cycle till the pregnancy test.
Firstly, the sonography is taken on 2nd or 3rd day of menses to check cyst or any other abnormality. Later on, the female is put on ovulation induction drugs for 5 to 6 days and called for the process of USG on the 7th or 8th day. The female’s USGS are repeated and the follicles are monitored for its growth. Once the rupture occurs, the process of IUI is carried on. This generally happens around the 14th to 16th day of the cycle. After the IUI procedure, some medicines are prescribed to the female for support for another 14 days.
Hazards/Risks of IUI procedure:-
There is generally no risk in performing IUI for both the male or the female. It is one of the safest procedures. But sometimes there are rare chances of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in women.
The cost of IUI treatment in Mumbai ranges from Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 57,500 depending on the success rates of IUI procedure and expertise of IUI doctors in Mumbai.
The cost of
IUI in India is very low as an IUI cycle can cost as little as 3,000 rupees.
However, even if you require just one cycle, you can expect to spend between
5,000 and 10,000 rupees as you will require ultrasounds and other tests before
the IUI treatment process can begin
General
infertility treatments such as ovarian stimulation plus IUI are significantly
less expensive than IVI. However, they are also significantly less effective.
