How colour plays a vital role in influencing our moods!!

“Colours, like features, follow the changes of the emotions. - Pablo Picasso”

Can colour influence your mood?

Have you ever noticed that you start your day by selecting which shade of colour you would wear based on your mood?

Colours play a very crucial role in our daily lives. Colour can make us feel cheerful, gloomy, hungry, anxious, relaxed and so on. It has a very close connection with psychological effects on people.

Does the colour black gives you a sense of power or sophistication? Do you feel calm in gray? Why?

Science has proven that each colour has its own unique properties, specific wavelength and vibrational frequency. For instance, the colour Red has the longest wavelength and the slowest vibrational frequeny. Whereas, violet has the shortest wavelength and the fastest frequency.

The colours are received through our eyes, which stimulates the retina and its cells which then travel to the optic nerve to brain and trigger glands and secretion of hormones to various parts of body. The colours have a great influence on our moods and feelings due to such impacts on our body.

Your selection of colour also depends on what you are trying to convey to your audience. For example, in the healthcare industry, you will often see white, blue and greys as these colours emphasise trust and tranquillity.

Colour has a profound effect both physically and mentally. But your feelings about a particular colour can depend upon various factors. The same colour can have different meaning in some other culture. For example, the colour ‘Black’ is a symbol of ‘mourning’ in many western countries but in countries like India, it is associated with party, power and sophistication. Similarly, we consider the colour ‘White’ as a symbol of mourning and in western countries; it is associated with special occasions like white is worn by brides on their Wedding day.

Different colours have different effects. They are categorised as-

• Warm Colours

Warm Colours include red, orange, yellow etc. They create energy and warmth.

• Cool Colours

Cold colours include Green, Blue and Purple. They are believed to have an relaxing effect on both body and mind.

• Neutral Colours

Neutral Colours include Black, Brown and White. It is not associated with any single hue. It can be made by mixing corresponding hues.

Let’s take a quick look at some colours and their associations-

Blue- Credible, Confidence, Loyalty
Purple- Royalty, Luxury, Wisdom
Yellow- Optimism, Enlightening, Energy
Orange- Energising, Enthusiasm, Desire
Red- Passion, Danger, Urgency
Black- Unknown Sophistication, Mystery, Power
White- Simplicity, Hope, Purity
Green- Balance Growth, Vision, Fertility


So, what is your favourite colour? Why? What effect does it have on you?

Think over and explore!

DISTANT SHORES- ENCHANTED ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS

Spending a couple of days on the Andaman and Nicobar islands has been an unforgettable experience for me! The stunning beauty of the island captured me. Andaman and Nicobar islands were once a settlement for penal punishment and now it’s popular as a tourist destination.

We started our trip by visiting Corbyn’s Cove Beach. The beach was serene and quiet and was surrounded by the lovely green coconut palms. This beach is the closest (nearly 8 km) from the main city (Port Blair) and was at a stone’s throw from our hotel, Peerless Sarovar Portico Resort (only beach resort in the city).

In the evening, we went to visit the cellular jail, also popularly known as “kala pani”. The well constructed building with the greenery around it is quite a contrast, to the stories of atrocities and tortures done here on the freedom fighters. Anyone visiting this place cannot leave without watching the spectacular light and sound show which is based on the history of the prison.

Next day, we checked out early morning to the port where our luxury passenger cruise-vessel called MAKRUZZ was waiting for us. We headed to Havelock island and reached their by afternoon. After sumptuous lunch at the hotel itself, we hired bikes and were all set to explore the nearby beaches.On our way to the beach, we gulped free fresh air, enjoyed the silence and the scenic beauty around us. We felt truly in the lap of nature. The moment we entered Radhanagar beach (Also known as beach no. 7) - we knew we were in for a treat!


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The white sand beach is an amazing place to spend some quiet and quality time with family and friends. It is also bestowed as Asia’s best beach by time magazine.

Havelock island is home to many picturesque beaches. A visit to elephant beach is a must if you love to do adventure water sports. This beach offers various adventure activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking etc. When we reached the beach on speed boats, I was amazed by the people who got up so early morning to do water sports! I went through all the options and kept rejecting them by giving an excuse of being a non swimmer. The guides there suggested me to do sea-walk. The word ‘sea walk’ gave me goose bumps. But I gathered up some courage when I got to know that’s it the most easy and simple activity and there was no training and swimming skills required. The action began when our motor boat took us to the designated spot, we were given transparent helmets for oxygen supply , and then we went inside the water through a small staircase, scuba divers accompanied us and we spend an awesome breathtaking 20 minutes gaping at the corals and the beautiful and colourful fishes on the sea bed. The whole experience was divine and thrilling.

When we were leaving for home the next day, the only thought that lingered on my mind was when we are coming back at these islands to explore many more untouched and unexplored beauty hidden here.

QUICK FACTS:

- Besides beach activities, tourism highlights include mountain trekking.
- A visit to Port Blair, can include stops at the Anthropological Museum, Chatham Sawmill, Marine Museum etc .
- Excursions to the beautiful islands of Wandoor, Jolly Buoy, Ross, Niel etc are also recommended as well as a trip to the bird sanctuary at Chiriyatapoo.
- The best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar islands is from December to March.

Spring Fashion Trends 2014

Spring has sprung! But is your wardrobe ready and in-shape for this summer/spring 2014? If not yet, then you are at the right place. I have rounded up all the must haves fashion wear and must try trends.

Start planning your new season makeover now with your perfect fashion trend guide to spring 2014.

Read on to discover your favourite new trend for this year!

Top Trends for spring which are ripped straight from the fall 2014 runways:

•Crop Tops

The Crop top trend can be seen pretty much everywhere but this trend is not for everyone and is feared by many. Not everyone dares to bare their midriff and embrace this bold style statement. Team up your crop top with a high-waisted skirt for a more feminine look. You can also pair the up with skirts or pants.

• Wide Legged Pants

Get ready to make a statement in wide legged pants! These pants had a major comeback this season. It has landed in all the stores and can be worn by people of all age and body types. It will give you an amazing silhouette if you are little heavy at the top. You can go for a high waisted trouser if you want to hide your muffin top. If you are short heighted, wear them with high heels! It’s ideal for the typical pear-shaped Indian women as hips appear narrower and they draw attention to the ankle.

Wide legged pants come in various styles. If you have skinny legs, go for a smaller flare and tight upper pants style. If you have thicker thighs, grab yourself a standard leg and wide flare pants.

• All Denim Look

Who doesn’t have denim in their closet? It is a staple wear and a must have in your wardrobe collection. This fabric has never gone out of fashion. But this summer, the ‘all-denim’ look is the new style statement. Nowadays, most of the celebrities and models have been spotted in the ‘denim on denim look’!

If you want to don this latest trending style, you can successfully pull off this look by mix and match your favourite denim shirts, skirts, jackets, pants etc. But make sure your denims are few shades apart. Also, carefully pick your footwear and accessories, choose a contrasting colored shoes and classy handbags!

Just GO BLUE!

Get inspired and get the heavy denim-attire look, and one thing is for sure- you will be turning heads!

• Pastel Shades

Pastels are the ‘it’ hues of spring 2014!

You will find pretty pastel shades in clothes and accessories this season. Is your wardrobe full of bright and vibrant colors? If yes, enrich your closet with soft, lovely, pale and pretty shades of pastel.

This style not only gives you a very summery and feminine look but it’s also refreshingly au-courant! Pastel shades like blue, pink lilac, spearmint and yellow are trending and spreading their essence this summer!

• Tea Length Skirts

Tea length skirts were all the rage on the runways this season!

This skirt is similar to a maxi skirt except the length is bit shorter and the silhouette is slightly wider. It’s usually A-line and can be found as plain, floral or graphic prints.

You can team these skirts with a crop top, fitted jacket and wedges for that perfect look.

It can be worn at anytime during the day.

Do you love the lady-like look? Grab yourself a lovely, flattering and versatile tea length skirt now and add some grace and elegance to your wardrobe!

ESCAPADE- Getting there is half the fun

“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never seen before.”- Dalai Lama

Are you looking for a break from work? Are you looking for a vacation in hill stations to get respite from the summer heat?

Escape to a hill station where you can be away from the hectic daily grind and hustle bustle of the daily life. If you are wondering where to go, consider the following options.

Top 5 Hill Stations in India:-


1. COORG
Coorg (Kodagu) is also known as the ‘Scotland of India’ and ‘Kashmir of South’. This hill station is located in Karnataka. It is popular for its coffee and tea plantations. If you are looking for a quiet, serere, picturesque landscape, this place is one of the best to visit. So, this summer, just relax and rejuvenate your senses and enjoy the eye-soothing and heavenly beauty of Coorg.

Quick Facts:
Shopping- Coffee, Honey, Spices Best time to visit- November to May (except for monsoon, June to September) Nearest Railway Station- Mangalore, Mysore, Hassan Nearest Airport- Mangalore, Mysore Sight Seeing- Cauvery, Abbey falls, Madikeri, Omkareshwara Temple etc.

2. KASHMIR
Kashmir is popularly known as ‘Paradise on Earth’. This hill station has ample attractions to showcase. It offers you captivating natural beauty, astounding greenery and amazing cuisine. A trip to Kashmir without experiencing the Shikara ride at the Dal Lake in Srinagar, snow-capped mountains of Gulmarg, beautiful valley of Pahalgam, dazzling view of Sonamarg is incomplete. Just pack your bags and head straight to Kashmir to experience the best time of your life.

Quick Facts:
Best time to visit- March to October Sight Seeing- Dal Lake, Mughal Gaden, Hazratbal, Betaab Valley etc. Shopping- Carpets, Pashmina Shawls, Papier Mache, Saffron

3. SHIMLA
Your search for an unforgettable summer retreat ends here! Shimla has it all for you. Shimla is packed with picture perfect landscapes and natural splendour. You can take a stroll at Shimla Mall or visit the nearby excursions to Chail, Kufri etc. Those who love and seek fun- filled adventure can plan out a trip to Shimla. Plenty of options are available like River rafting, trout trekking, rock climbing etc.

Quick Facts:
Shopping- Wooden handicrafts, Jams and squashes Nearest Airport- Jubbarhatti Best time to visit- April to August, December to January Sight Seeing- The Ridge, The Mall, Jakhoo Temple etc.

4. GANGTOK
Are you looking for a family outing or a romantic getaway? Well, Gangtok is a destination for all. It is located in the state of Sikkim. Gangtok is renowned for its breath taking views; it is a visual delight. This place offers you a blend of calmess, tranquillity and thrilling adventure.

Quick Facts: Nearest Airport- Bagdogra Nearest Railway Station- New Jalpaiguri Best time to visit- September to May Sight Seeing- Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, Rumtech Monastery etc.

5. DHARAMSHALA
Dharamshala, also popularly known as ‘Queen of the Hills;’ is the perfect holiday spot! It is known for its magnificent landscapes and serenity. It’s a perfect place to rejuvenate your body and soul. The beauty of this place has captivated people from all over the world; they often visit this place to attain peace of mind. Mc Leodganj is the most famous tourist attraction in Dharamshala. The Dalai Lama's residence in McLeodGanj and administrative office is in the Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Quick Facts:
Nearest Airport- Kangra Best time to visit- January to June; September to December Sight Seeing- Kangra Art Museum, War Memorial, St John’s Church etc. Shopping- Prayer flags, Tangkha and Mandala paintings, Tibetan singing bowl, Bhagsunag Falls etc.

With a camera you can preserve the scenes of these magnificent places but what remains in your memories forever is the blissful experience of the hill stations in India. Explore and Enjoy!

7 Keys to Email Etiquettes

Do you feel that people tend to ignore your emails? Do most of your colleagues prefer to talk to you on phone rather than replying to your email? You could be writing inefficient emails that fail to convey the message.

The use of email is ubiquitous in Corporate Culture. Follow these 7 simple tips for making email more efficient and more actionable-

1. Be brief and to the point

Do you like reading long emails? No one does! A good rule of thumb is to keep emails short and concise. Follow the ‘less is more’ strategy. Make important points and your main message clear at the beginning of the email and then give details in the rest of your email.

2. Use CC and BCC appropriately

Think twice before pressing 'Reply All'. This will make your email go to everyone on the original list. If you intend to only address one or two people on the list, select only those recipients.

3. Choose your subject fields with care

Your readers may size you up based on your subject line. Do not use simple sayings such as "For action" or "Please Read" in your subject line. This may result in your emailing being sorted to the Junk Mail folder. Use a professional subject line to ensure your email's recipient will read the email and not disregard it for miscellaneous junk or spam.

4. Use proper spelling, grammar and punctuation

Do you have the fetish of using multiple exclamation marks? Do your colleagues make fun of your typos and spelling errors? Wrong spellings and grammar reflects negative impression of you and your company. Always keep your spell-check option on to avoid such silly mistakes. Read your email before pressing the send button.

5. Avoid writing in capitals

Writing in capitals is the digital equivalent of shouting. Also, they are harder to read. So do not use all-caps to stress points.

6. Don’t forward hoax emails and chain letters

Created by pranksters, hoax stories are fictional. But sadly, many naive readers actually believe these email hoaxes, and forward them around affecting someone's reputation resulting in losses. If you get email hoaxed, report it to the right sources.

7. Be careful with formatting, structure and layout

You email recipient may be reading your email on a mobile device. Make sure that you don't go overboard with highlighting and underlining your email contents. A clear and concise email is a reflection of your working style.

“A good day at the beach ends with sandy toes and a sun-kissed nose!”

PACK A PERFECT VANITY BOX FOR YOUR BEACH HOLIDAY!

Are you heading for a beach vacation? Are you concerned about your look on the beach as your makeup generally gets spoiled during fun and frolic in the sand?

Do you often wonder that whenever you go to a beach all dressed up with that perfect make-up, even then your look don’t stay for long and photographs don’t come out well with that smudgy and melting make-up?

Don’t worry anymore! Let me help you organise an ideal and ultimate vanity box for your beach holiday!

Make sure you must-have these essentials for travel with you and for that perfect look on the beach.

Imagine yourself on the beach! Lets jott down a list of the cosmetics you should carry along:

- Sunscreen, SPF Cream, Oil free Moisturizer

- Silicon based Primer, water-proof concealer

- Oil free, silicon based foundation or BB Cream with SPF

- Powder eye-shadow, waterproof eye-liner and mascara

- Neutral color lipsticks, Lip tints, Lip Balm with SPF etc.



This is not an exhaustive list; you can expand or contract it as per your makeup requirements.

What’s next? How to apply these cosmetics so that the sweat and water can’t dampen your mood?

Suppose, you have to visit the beach tomorrow! Follow these guidelines to keep your makeup intact for a longer span of time.

7 Tips for perfect beach Make-up: 1. Firstly, we would suggest you to swipe on an antiperspirant before you to go sleep since the aluminium-based compounds that block sweat glands get more time to absorb.

2. Applying a powerful sunscreen is a must; you can choose brands with higher SPF.

3. If you want to hide some marks and scars, go for a water-proof concealer and have fun around the beach freely with full confidence.

4. To make your eyes look attractive even on the sea-shore, grab yourself a waterproof shadow, liner and mascara.

5. Always skip the foundation and instead opt for a tinted moisturizer or a BB Cream with SPF. It will make your skin look natural and will also protect you from tanning. Avoid using lip gloss as hair and sand tend to stick to it. Go for a lip balm with SPF instead!

6. Grab neural colors lip shades and eye-shadows.

7. Opt for a peach blush over pink! Peach-ish shades look better in the sun.


So, let the sea set you free! Enjoy the gleam and the sunshine!

TREND ALERT FOR MEN- CHINOS

“The BOLDER the BETTER”.

Bright colored, eye-catchy and versatile Chinos are trending this summer and the bolder the colors, the better!

Is your wardrobe full of basic blue or basic black denims? Do you only wear those safe colours like navy blue, brown and grey trousers?

Get Chinoed! It’s time to swap your boring bottom wear options for a pair of nonchalant Chinos. Chinos are available at almost every store and is a must have in your closet this season.

Chinos are basically made of twill fabric, originally made of 100% cotton. The word "chino" comes from the Spanish language and translates as "chinese". They were called so as the chino cloth was originally manufactured in China. But, who cares about its history when it has become a breakthrough fashion trend which cannot be ignored especially by the fashion-savvy men!

Chinos are considered to be a great staple wardrobe choice by today’s men. The best part of these trousers is that you can style it with practically everything. The color options are ample, you can choose from pastel shades to earthy tones to neons!

Chinos are summery, light-weight and a perfect choice for Indian summer.

You can easily find your desired size and color in these cool trousers. If you are planning to buy them, you can find different types of materials and cuts in these trousers make sure you choose it according to your body type.

Men don themselves in different type of Chinos, namely Boot Cut, Drop Crotch, Cargo, Flare, Plain, Pleated, Relaxed, Slim, Straight etc., depending on the style statement they want to make!

So choose your look! And, ditch and swap those boring basic colored denims and trousers, quickly upgrade it to spring’s quintessential trousers because undoubtedly Chinos are here to stay!

“I don’t let the clothes wear me, I wear them.”

Sonam Kapoor is unarguably the best dressed actress in Bollywood today!

She is known and admired for her versatile looks. Over the past few years, she has turned into a ‘Style Diva’. She is a fashion icon worldwide and her sense of style has been admired by many celebrities. The best styling tip you can learn from Sonam Kapoor is that she keeps reinventing her looks and she is confident to take risks with her unusual style sense.

When you see her, it’s not just about right clothes but also the perfect accessories and footwear’s she chooses to wear is admirable. She is often seen in messy fish braids, sleek high-pony and braided buns. She has very quickly and easily established a position of a Fashion Icon in the industry.

Her impeccable sense of styling is clearly seen in her classy looks at the Cannes Film Festival.

If you are wondering, who is her stylist?

She often says that she is her own stylist and fashion is her art. Her younger sister, Rhea Kapoor is a fashion designer and she designs her clothes. Her mother, Sunita Kapoor was a designer and used to supply to leading stores in Mumbai like Ensemble, Glitterati etc. She owes a lot to both of them. Also, before venturing in the Hindi Film Industry, she was studying in New York. So, she has picked her taste of vintage fashion from New York.

She has featured in almost all the covers of the leading fashion magazines and has walked the ramp for almost all the famous designers.

What’s next, Sonam?