Tag: lifestyle

Categories
Books Lite Blogs Tech Lite

Why Reading Matters?

Storybooks often address emotions, feelings, and social situations that children might be encountering for the first time. Reading about characters who experience similar emotions helps children understand their feelings and develop empathy…writes  Priyanka Shah

Every successful person ends up having one thing in common- their thirst for knowledge. And what do they do to gain such intellect? They read! They read and read about everything on god’s green earth and then form their own thoughts about the many things they’ve read. Sounds easy enough, right? However, it is not.

Let’s be honest, none other than habitual readers can pick a book and start reading it. Developing this habit is a lot harder when you are 30 years old. As consumable content duration shrinks and our tolerance with it, parents must recognise that now is the right time to develop a love for reading early in kids which will surely help them when they grow up. This will give them an early advantage and set them up for success.

Reading storybooks should be a part of every child’s life and it should start as early as possible. One can even start with reading board books to one’s 6 months old baby. In fact, reading books early has many lesser-known benefits such as:

Reading plays a crucial role in a child’s development and overall well-being. The importance of reading and exposure to storybooks cannot be overstated, as they contribute to a wide range of cognitive, emotional, social, and educational benefits.

Reading stimulates brain development by encouraging critical thinking, imagination, and problem-solving skills.

Exposure to books and reading from a young age lays the foundation for early literacy skills, such as letter recognition and understanding the structure of written language.

Storybooks often address emotions, feelings, and social situations that children might be encountering for the first time. Reading about characters who experience similar emotions helps children understand their feelings and develop empathy.

The habit of reading is something that pays off for a long time! Children who enjoy reading are more likely to seek out knowledge and continue exploring new ideas as they grow older.

However, the screen time dilemma has become every parent’s nightmare. No matter how much parents try, the screens dominate every child’s life and it is close to impossible to keep them away from screens all the time. Finding the right balance and managing screen time effectively is crucial for the healthy development and well-being of children.

But in a screen-dominated world where do the pretty little paperbacks fit? How does one walk the tightrope between screen and story? While we are surrounded by technology, we often forget that we are living in the age of knowledge where we can find solutions to many challenges. Here is a list of platforms that took this challenge head-on. These platforms are constantly working on bridging to make screen time worthwhile by helping kids develop cool reading habits in a digital playground:

Jumbaya

Jumbaya brings a curated library of just the best storybooks from around the world covering genres like folktales, mythology, adventure, animals, morals, sci-fi, bedtime stories and many more! All their storybooks are done in a thoughtfully animated read-along format with SLS (Same Language Subtitling) that can help significantly improve a child’s reading abilities as well as develop vocabulary and language skills. They also have storybooks in Hindi and plan to bring storybooks in other Indian and global languages.

Epic

Epic is a platform dedicated to bringing storybooks from the page to the screen. This app makes books more accessible to kids. A lot of their books have a read-aloud feature that makes it easier for kids to follow the words while reading. 

StoryWeaver

An initiative by Pratham books, this is a free library of multiple books from around the world for kids. Most of their storybooks are also available in many Indian and international languages. They even follow a unique system of ‘Levels’ which can be used to map out a book to a kid’s reading ability.

In a world where screens beckon from every corner, finding meaningful experiences becomes a need of the hour. But with moderated content and platforms you’ll soon find that your child’s screen time can be a source of smiles through the pleasure of reading! In the digital playground, let literature be your guide to a more fulfilling and enriching use of technology. With these cool reading habits, the digital world becomes a playground for the mind and soul.

ALSO READ-Best books for your July reading list

Categories
Food Lite Blogs

Festive Food Trends Reflect Changing Lifestyles in India

Traditional snacks – 47 per cent of experts believe that traditional snacks like Chakli, Bhakarwadi, Sev, and others made by home chefs will gain popularity…reports Asian Lite News

India, is known to be a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. Its multiple festivals reflect this rich heritage. What adds a delightful dimension to these celebrations is the wide array of delectable foods that accompany them.

As the auspicious festival of Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, India gears up to feast on some delicacies that have gained worldwide claim. These festival foods are not just a gastronomic delight but also a testament to the country’s culinary diversity. These dishes are prepared with love and devotion, often following age-old family recipes passed down through generations, especially the sweets. Traditionally, Indian festivals have been associated with indulgent feasts and sweet treats, but today’s changing lifestyle and health-conscious consumers are influencing how these celebrations are observed.

Godrej Food Trends Report 2023 highlights the trends in traditional snacks, their consumption, and the way of cooking:

Traditional snacks – 47 per cent of experts believe that traditional snacks like Chakli, Bhakarwadi, Sev, and others made by home chefs will gain popularity.

Hyper-regional sweets – Health and lifestyle being a concern, 99 per cent of food experts believe that special diet versions of traditional mithai will be in demand and drive innovation in the segment. Moreover, 75 per cent of the panel believes that there is a rising interest in the hyper-regional sweet offerings.

Demand for regional cooking mediums – With the increased demand for hyper-regional cuisines, 71 per cent of the food panel has observed that consumers will opt for traditional desi oils over imported options for Indian cooking. Whereas 50 per cent of the experts predict that gourmet premium ghee varieties will see a rise in demand.

Convenient food with a health-conscious approach – There has been a notable shift in India’s approach to festivities, with a significant emphasis on health and well-being even during celebratory occasions, 60 per cent of the panel predicts that diet and health-enhancing gadgets like steamers and air-fryers will be in demand this year.

Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of Perfect Bite Consulting and Curating Editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report adds, “Festive season in India is a tribute to our cherished Indian heritage and culture, and offers an opportunity to indulge in snacks and confections, both the traditional and the bold new offerings. It’s beautiful, how in India, the timeless flavors of the past seamlessly blend with contemporary creativity. With Ganesh Chaturthi around the corner, it’s a fabulous time to savour the fusion of nostalgia and innovation in the culinary offerings we have.”

ALSO READ-

Categories
Health Lifestyle Lite Blogs

A healthy combination of workout and fasting

During fasting, glycogen levels in your body are low. This encourages the body to use stored fat as a source of energy…reports Asian Lite News

Fasting has been a tradition as old as any. We all have fasted at one time or another, for various reasons including but not limited to cultural, religious, and health purposes.

While fasts are often observed for good health, an unhealthy myth follows this custom. It is often believed that one should not workout during fasting. But, the truth cannot be any far from the truth. In reality, working out during fasts can actually be beneficial, as long as you know what kind of workout plan works for you.

While you do need to consider certain things while working out during a fast, it is preferable to not skip your workout. Kushal Pal Singh, Fitness and Performance Expert of Anytime Fitness discusses how to schedule your workout during fasts.

Benefits Of Workout During Fasting

Contrary to popular belief, working out during fasting can have ample benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them below.

Fat Burning: During fasting, glycogen levels in your body are low. This encourages the body to use stored fat as a source of energy.

Improved insulin sensitivity: A healthy combination of workout and fasting aids in enhanced insulin sensitivity which can improve blood sugar control and have long-term benefits for metabolic health.

Mind-body connection: Fasting can create a heightened sense of awareness and mindfulness. Coupled with exercise, it can enhance the mind-body connection and promote a deeper sense of focus and presence during your workouts.

Mental focus and clarity: Some individuals report improved mental focus and clarity during fasted workouts. This could be due to the body adapting to using alternative fuel sources and the potential cognitive benefits associated with fasting.

How To Revamp Your Workout During Fasting?

Oftentimes, after knowing the benefits of the workout during fasting, people may get too excited and indulge in an extreme workout. And, that is exactly what is not to be done. Working out during a fast requires a strategy to compensate for the lack of energy. Too much of anything is wrong, and the rule applies here too. So, how should one workout during fasting? Just follow the guide below, and you should be able to workout efficiently during a calorie deficiency.

Avoid Heavy Workouts: Engaging in heavy or intense workouts during fasting periods can be challenging for your body due to limited energy and hydration. It’s generally recommended to avoid heavy workouts during fasting to ensure your well-being and prevent potential health risks. Some of the reasons for this may include lower energy levels, a dehydrated body, muscle breakdown, and irrelevant resources for recovery and repair of the body.

Instead of heavy workouts, consider opting for lighter, low-intensity exercises, such as gentle cardio, yoga, or stretching during fasting periods. These activities can help maintain movement, promote flexibility, and provide a lower-intensity option that is more suitable during fasting.

Maintain Energy Level: Maintaining the right levels of energy is important for a fruitful workout. You won’t be able to utilize your workout time if you do not have enough resources to move about. So, what can you do?

Schedule your workout in accordance with the time of the day when you have the most energy. It may take some time to figure out the right time frame, but once you understand it, you will be able to workout during fasting more efficiently.

Consume a balanced meal during the non-fasting window ahead of your workout. Select foods that contain a variety of complex carbs, lean protein, and healthy fats. This can help you maintain energy levels during your workout.

It may be beneficial for you to reduce the strenuousness of your workouts while fasting. Focus on low to moderate-intensity activities that are less exhausting.

Prioritize restoring your energy stores and providing your body with the nutrition it requires for replenishment after your workout and breaking the fast. Eat a well-balanced meal with carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle repair, and healthy fats for satiety.

Focus On More Cardio And Fewer Weights: During a fast, focusing on cardio exercises and reducing the intensity of weightlifting can be a suitable approach. Here are some tips for incorporating more cardio and reducing weight-lifting during fasting:

Opt for activities like jogging, brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or aerobics as your primary workout during the fasting period.

Perform cardio exercises at a moderate intensity level that allows you to maintain a steady pace without excessive strain.

Consider interval training, alternating between periods of higher and lower intensity, to challenge yourself while still focusing on cardio.

If you wish to include some weight training, choose lighter weights and perform fewer repetitions rather than heavy lifting that could cause undue strain on your body.

Listen to your body and adjust the duration and intensity of your workouts according to your energy levels and comfort.

Workout For A Less Time: Working out for a shorter duration during fasting can be a practical approach to ensure you don’t overexert yourself and maintain your energy levels. You may instead engage in low to moderate interval training.

ALSO READ-Effective ways to lower blood pressure

Categories
Fashion Lifestyle Lite Blogs

The power of skin cycling in skincare

Catering to your skin’s specific needs in the given moment, skin cycling allows you to alter the products and techniques for better outcomes…writes Tulsi Gosai

With a wealth of products, innovations, and treatments available, the perfect skincare can become challenging to master. Moreover, as we age, the needs and requirements of our skin tend to change, calling for a modification of skin ingredients in order to achieve a flawless skin. 

Amongst other growing trends promising nothing but an ideal skin, skin cycling has been gaining greater ground. By frequently switching products and ingredients, skin cycling aims to minimize skin adaption and enhance the efficacy of skincare treatments. Additionally, this method enables you to change the products and procedures as needed to cater to the specific demands of your skin at any particular time.

Skin cycling: Concept and implementation

The same way that changing workouts throughout the week allows you to focus on different sections of your body, your skin also requires the same kind of treatment.

Using various skin care products altogether can make your skin seem and feel much drier and more damaged. Spreading the products equally throughout the week, on the other hand, will give your skin more time to absorb the product and generate perfect skin. Skin cycling is a method of rotating various skin care products on different days of the week. As a result, your skin is able to breathe and recover, yielding nothing short of spectacular results.

In order to remove the dead skin cells, harsher products like exfoliators and retinoids are used for the first few days of the skin cycling process. Gradually, lighter products for moisture and hydration are employed to give your skin a break and time to recuperate. This, as a result, makes the products last twice as long as they would otherwise. Once you have completed your cycle, make sure to immediately restart the process, targeting better results over time.

Key benefits

Subject to change: Catering to your skin’s specific needs in the given moment, skin cycling allows you to alter the products and techniques for better outcomes. This, as a result, enables you to prevent product stagnation and expose your skin to various beneficial ingredients depending upon the shifting needs of your skin.

Promotes skin rejuvenation: With a versatile skincare approach, skin cycling promotes improved skin health. This new-age technique supports skin regeneration by targeting and treating specific skincare needs at a particular time while assuring the care your skin requires to stay healthy and balanced.

Minimizing skin issues: Preventing various skin problems, such as irritation, redness, inflammation, and acne, skin cycling proves to be a credible solution for all types of skin. By constantly adjusting your skincare regimen to the current condition of your skin, you can respond rapidly to its changing needs and avoid a variety of skin problems in return.

ALSO READ-Sunglasses for the season and fashion

Categories
Food Lite Blogs

Quick and nutritious choices for new gen lifestyle

Pairing nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, with millet-basedlavash, is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and healthy fats…reports Luke Coutinho

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy diet while juggling a busy lifestyle.

However, with a little planning and preparation, it is possible to snack healthily even when you’re on the go.  Here are some options that will provide you with some quick and nutritious snack options that will keep you energized and satisfied throughout the day.

Fresh and Local Fruit:

One of the easiest and most convenient snack options for busy individuals is fresh fruit. Fruit like apples, bananas, oranges, and berries are portable and require no preparation. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, providing a healthy boost of natural energy. Keep a variety of fruits on hand or consider pre-cutting them and storing them in small containers for easy grab-and-go snacking.

Nut Butter and Spreads with Millet Lavash:

Pairing nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, with millet-basedlavash, is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and healthy fats. Nut butter provides satiety and helps maintain blood sugar levels, while millet lavash offers fiber and essential nutrients. Look for single-serving packets of nut butter or carry a small container with you for a convenient and nutritious snack option.

Protein or Energy Bars

Many energy bars on the market claim to be nutritious but are often packed with artificial preservatives and undisclosed ingredients. This can make it difficult to make informed choices about what we put into our bodies. But worry no more! Opt for energy or protein bars which have been carefully crafted to be preservative-free and transparent about the ingredients used.

Trail and Seed Mix:

Trail and seed mix is a classic snack that combines various nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sometimes even chocolate or yogurt-covered treats. It provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energizing snack. Look for trail mix options low in added sugars, sodium, and hidden chemicals, or consider making your own custom mix to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Healthy Nibbles & Quick Bites

Say goodbye to those greasy potato chips and discover some amazing healthy nibbles that are not only delicious but also good for your health. Go for baked beetroot nacho chips, millet puffs, tempeh chips or sundried tomato and basil crackers. These snacks are low in sodium, fried-free, and packed with nutrition to keep you energized throughout the day.

Ready to Eat Healthy Alternatives

Ready-to-eat products such as ragi ladoo, millet lavash, and organic hummus can serve as a healthy alternative for your snacking time. These options not only provide convenience but also offer nutritional benefits.

Vegetable Sticks and Hummus

For a refreshing and nutritious snack, pack some ozone-washed vegetable sticks, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, along with a small container of ready-to-eat organic hummus. Vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while hummus adds a creamy and flavorful component. This combination offers a satisfying crunch and a dose of essential nutrients to keep you going throughout the day.

ALSO READ-Protein and weight loss

Categories
Lite Blogs

Embracing a flavourful revolution

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, a growing number of people are opting for teas without milk and seeking a diverse range of flavours…writes Bala Sarda

It’s well known that over time, consumer preferences have undergone a transformation, leading to a rise in individuals who prefer their tea without milk and seek a diverse range of flavors. In response to the ever-evolving demand many tea brands are proactively expanding into flavoured teas, specifically catering to lactose-intolerant consumers. 

Tea’s global appeal

After its fortunate discovery, tea has been enjoyed for generations. With millions of people indulging, experimenting, and developing a fondness for this beverage, its versatility is hardly overlooked. From the traditional tea ceremonies of East Asia to the cozy afternoon tea traditions in the Western world, tea is also an integral part of many cultures.

With time, changes preferences

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, a growing number of people are opting for teas without milk and seeking a diverse range of flavors. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including health consciousness, dietary restrictions, and a desire for new taste experiences. Lactose-intolerant consumers, in particular, have embraced tea as a beverage choice that aligns with their dietary needs.

Meeting ever-evolving demand and consumer expectations

To cater to the expanding demand and face rising competition, tea brands are adapting to the changing landscape and tapping into the niche market of flavored teas for lactose-intolerant consumers. By offering a range of innovative flavor options, tea brands are meeting the diverse tastes and preferences of this consumer segment.

Endless shelves of flavorful options

Tea brands are now introducing a multitude of exciting flavors to entice lactose-intolerant consumers. With a focus on natural ingredients, these flavored teas encompass a wide spectrum of flavors, including fruity, herbal, floral, and spicy notes.

Whether it’s a floral blend of Chamomile Mint Citrus or the eye-soothing Blue Pea Tea that has recently caught attention, there are more than enough options that make it easy to do without milk in your tea.

In addition to the enticing flavors, these teas are designed to be easy to prepare and consume. Brands are launching products that are conveniently packaged, allowing consumers to enjoy their favorite flavored teas on the go. Ready-to-drink options, such as iced teas, have gained significant popularity, providing a refreshing and convenient beverage choice for lactose-intolerant consumers.

Health-conscious considerations

Brands entering the flavored tea market for lactose-intolerant consumers are keenly aware of the growing health consciousness among tea enthusiasts. To meet the expectations of this audience, they are developing teas with reduced or no added sugar, promoting a healthier beverage option. By focusing on natural ingredients and highlighting the inherent health benefits of certain flavors, such as antioxidant-rich fruits or calming herbal blends, brands are offering a holistic tea-drinking experience, which is just the recipe for success in 2023.

The beverage that outshines the rest: Iced Teas

One notable segment within the flavored tea market is iced tea, which has experienced significant growth, particularly in countries like India and beyond. Iced teas are often brewed with flavorful blends, creating a refreshing and thirst-quenching option for lactose-intolerant consumers. With the availability of various flavors and the convenience of ready-to-drink options, iced teas have become a popular choice among health-conscious individuals seeking a cool and flavorful alternative.

By tapping into this niche market, tea brands are ensuring that everyone can indulge in the pleasure of a flavorful cup of tea, regardless of their dietary restrictions. With so many young brands coming up with options that cater to lactose-intolerant consumers, the possibilities of creating replacement beverages are endless. 

ALSO READ- ‘My Hair’ app to tackle unpredictability of hair colour results

Categories
Food Lite Blogs

Right choices for right lifestyle

Eating protein or drinking protein: Which is better?(ianslife)

Natural proteins though unprocessed, yet contain a balanced blend of macro (proteins & fats) and micro (vitamins & minerals) nutrients…reports Asian Lite News

So here is one of the most debatable topics amongst all fitness enthusiasts and nutritionists worldwide. When it comes to meeting your daily protein requirements, both eating protein-rich foods and drinking protein supplements can be effective. However, the choice between eating protein and drinking protein depends on individual goals, preferences, and dietary restrictions.

Archi Garg, Nutritionist at Chicnutrix, shares her expert opinion to help you make the right choice.

Average daily requirement: Firstly, it is important to understand the average daily protein requirement for every individual. Protein in any form, either natural or artificial, is very essential to carry out normal body functions. The daily requirement for protein may vary according to age, weight, gender, and level of physical activity. Still, it ranges between 46-63 grams for adults and 65 grams for pregnant and lactating females.

Nutritional profile: Natural protein sources and protein supplements (powders, juices and shakes) are both complete proteins; however, the rest of their nutritional profile is entirely different. Protein supplements are single isolated macronutrient. They provide 18-25 grams of protein, no fat, minimal carbohydrate and no vitamins and minerals, as they are all processed. However, nature does not provide protein or, in fact, any macro or micronutrient in isolation, which in itself is a blessing.

Natural proteins: Natural proteins though unprocessed, yet contain a balanced blend of macro (proteins & fats) and micro (vitamins & minerals) nutrients. These nutrients work together to keep the body functional, ensuring all the dietary requirements are met at all levels simultaneously. It packs protein with required good fats, vitamins and minerals to build muscles while repairing tissues, maintaining weight, and keeping a check on body fat and thus maintaining overall health. However, sometimes they may not provide all essential amino acids. Also, some of the natural protein sources are animal-based and might not be a suitable option for vegetarian and vegan people.



Protein Supplements: All protein supplements are artificial sources, and they provide all essential amino acids in the required quantity. In liquid forms, such as protein juices, protein is easy to absorb and digest. Also, these protein supplements are more convenient and instant to consume and thus play the role of a go-to meal. However, most of the protein supplements contain artificial colours and preservatives, which are harmful to the body. Long-term use of protein supplements can also pose certain health challenges like digestion issues, nausea, bloating, etc. Hence, it is important to choose protein supplements through a certified and trusted brand.

Which one is better? While most people believe that protein supplements only help more to gain muscles, it is less known that protein supplements also help in fulfilling daily protein intake. Protein supplements may not necessarily be required for everyone, but can be helpful in certain situations where it may be challenging to meet your daily protein requirements through food alone. It seems more convenient and lucrative to use protein supplements as it doesn’t include much effort, especially when you’re on the go or don’t have the time to prepare a protein-rich meal. Although it is always advisable to use natural sources of protein to maintain weight, build muscle, or stay healthy. We can achieve all our fitness goals and maintain great health by choosing a balanced diet consisting of protein-rich foods in our diet.

ALSO READ-Next decade of student housing in India

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Carefully crafted for sustainability and style

Folsom’ is a combination of recycled denim and sturdy hemp. Both are combined to weave this amazing rug which has the charm of a gypsy as well as a class of an intellectual…reports Asian Lite News

Here are some recycled products, carefully crafted by The Rug Republic to bring style and sustainability together. Each item in this collection is made from recycled materials, giving them a unique and eco-friendly appeal.

CARRUM RUG-PET

Perfect for any backyard, patio, deck, or poolside, this stylish rug is a practical addition to any outdoor or indoor living space. Hand-woven in PET, this easy-care rug is also well-suited for high-traffic areas. Not to miss the rug’s price point, that makes it a must-have piece! More than 300 plastic bottles are recycled to make one of these!

FOLSOM RUG – DENIM/ HEMP

Folsom’ is a combination of recycled denim and sturdy hemp. Both are combined to weave this amazing rug which has the charm of a gypsy as well as a class of an intellectual. This would be perfect when paired with blues or neutrals and even look great with industrial style decor.

BILBAO RUG – RECYCLED FABRIC
Vibrant, Creative, Eco-friendly – made from recycled fabric, the ‘Bilbao’ rug is a masterpiece which has been a big hit in global floor fashion since 2015. An eye catcher with a ‘story and a soul’. This is the kind of rug which will set your room apart and give you comfort in both warm and cold weather.

TURON BAR STOOL – RECYCLED FABRIC
Do the basic and flat looking bar stools bore you, no matter how elegant they look? Let the style alarm get loud with our Turon Bar Stool. Add this vibrant multi-colored stool to create an edgy and out-of-the-box decor setting. The recycled fabric used for the stool makes sure to make it a bigger hero for the new age sustainable homes.

ALSO READ-Enhancing space and light in your home

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle habits

What is being eco-friendly and how to become one?.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Energy Star is a government-backed program that certifies energy-efficient appliances. Preferably use appliances with the Energy Star label. Choose an appliance that specifically fits your needs…reports Asian Lite News

Living an eco-friendly lifestyle is essential for preserving the environment, promoting sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint, and thus protecting our planet for future generations. It involves making conscious choices to minimise our impact on the environment, reduction of waste and pollution, and conservation of natural resources.

Following are some eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle habits that one can adopt to make a positive impact.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle

The first step towards an eco-friendly sustainable lifestyle is to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Reduce refers to reducing the amount of waste we produce by consuming fewer resources, such as energy, water, and raw materials. This can be achieved through small lifestyle changes, such as turning off lights when they’re not in use, reducing water usage, or using public transportation, by choosing products with minimal packaging and avoiding single-use products, especially plastics. Reuse refers to using reusable items, such as cloth shopping bags, water bottles, coffee or tea cups, etc. Recycling is also essential as it reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and reduces the demand for new materials. In 2022, India’s recycling rate was only 22.1 per cent.

Water Conservation

Reducing water consumption is essential to conserve water resources and reduce water pollution. One can reduce water consumption by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, using low-flow showerheads and faucets, and avoiding water wastage. For instance, when brushing your teeth or shaving, turn off the tap to conserve water, and avoid leaving the tap running when washing dishes.
Rainwater harvesting should be practiced both at homes and workplaces.

Renewable Energy

The use of renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, is an effective way to reduce one’s carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. Besides one can save on otherwise huge electricity bills. If one does not have the option of installing solar panels, consider purchasing renewable energy from a renewable energy provider.

Energy Conservation

Energy Star is a government-backed program that certifies energy-efficient appliances. Preferably use appliances with the Energy Star label. Choose an appliance that specifically fits your needs. A larger appliance may use more energy than required. Make sure you use your appliances efficiently. For example, only run your dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load. Use the appropriate settings, such as energy-saving or eco-mode, on your appliances when possible. Use LED or smart lighting products, which are more energy-efficient.

Use of public transportation, walking or cycling

Public transportation such as metro, buses, trains, and trams etc, can be an efficient way to get around. Check your local public transportation schedules and routes to see if it’s a feasible option for you. If you live close to your workplace or other destinations, consider walking or cycling instead of driving. This can not only save you money but also provide health benefits. Carpooling should be encouraged as it reduces the number of cars on the road, reducing traffic congestion and gas emissions. Transportation accounts for 29 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in India.

Buy local and organic food

Farmer’s markets are a great way to buy fresh, locally-grown produce. Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program which is a great way to support local farmers.

Buying organic food is an effective way to reduce your exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Organic farming practices are also more sustainable, as they reduce the use of fertilisers and pesticides, conserve water resources, and promote biodiversity.

Reduce meat consumption

Start by reducing your meat consumption gradually. For example, try going meatless for one day a week, and gradually increase from there. Experiment with plant-based proteins such as tofu, lentils, beans, and chickpeas. In India, the average person consumes 150 pounds of meat per year. Reducing meat consumption can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve overall health.

Grow your own food

Growing your own food is an effective way to reduce your carbon footprint and promote sustainable living. Home-grown food is free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals and requires less energy to transport than store-bought food. You can grow your own food in a backyard garden, terrace, on a balcony, or in a community garden. The concept of hydroponic farming can be effectively used for this purpose.

Use environmentally-friendly cleaning products

Look for cleaning products that have been certified by reputable organisations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Green Seal. Choose cleaning products that are non-toxic and free of chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and phosphates. Eco-friendly cleaning products are made from natural ingredients and are non toxic. You can make your own eco-friendly cleaning products using natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

Plant trees and support reforestation efforts

Look for local tree-planting events in your area and participate. Consider donating to reforestation projects that plant trees in areas that have been affected by deforestation or other land-use changes. These projects are often run by environmental organisations and can have a significant impact on restoring ecosystems.

Deforestation accounts for 10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Use Reusable Menstrual Products

Conventional menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, contribute to landfill waste and are made from synthetic materials that can be harmful to the environment. Reusable menstrual products, such as menstrual cups and cloth pads, are a more eco-friendly alternative.

Educate others

Lead by example by adopting sustainable habits and practices in your own life and inspiring others. Use social media, blog posts, or other forms of communication to share relevant information.

By taking these steps and making eco-friendly choices, we can reduce our impact on the environment leading to a sustainable future.

ALSO READ-Naturopathy to improve metabolism in women

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Ideal workspaces for new gen commercial lifestyle

Your design checklist for commercial spaces.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Commenting on the simplest and the most basic commercial design element which is also the most important, he adds: “Colours always play a key role in creating the desired look, feel, and appeal for a commercial space…reports N Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Interior design for business areas is frequently far more sophisticated than design for residential ones. This is due to the fact that commercial space is visited and inhabited on a regular basis by a diverse range of people. Designers must solicit advice from all stakeholders with a direct or indirect vested interest in the business when planning and developing commercial offices.

Every internal and external stakeholder of a firm, from the founder and CEO to customers and partners, will have a say in the interior design of its commercial space (an office, a restaurant, a lounge, etc.). As a result, it is critical to creating a complete design brief before the designers begin working on your commercial space.

The lighting arrangement and the colour palette to be used

Lighting and colours often go hand-in-hand when it comes to the importance of a commercial design. According to Kunal Shama, the founder, and CEO, of Flipspaces, it is important to include the areas you want to be lit more or less than the rest of the space, “Clearly mention all the sources of light you want in the design brief. Whether you want your commercial space to be lit up more by natural light or artificial sources such as false ceilings and LED lights, brief your designers to prepare a layout accordingly.”

Commenting on the simplest and the most basic commercial design element which is also the most important, he adds: “Colours always play a key role in creating the desired look, feel, and appeal for a commercial space. Using the right colour palette evokes favourable reactions and emotions within your employees and customers as they visit your commercial space. Along with the amount and sources of light in your commercial space, it is also important to add the colours you want a light to emit. Make sure these colours are in sync with the central theme and the colours you want on the walls, furniture articles, etc. Make sure your colour palette is in sync with your business and its offerings. For example, using colours like grey, white, and sea green may not be the best option for designing a Chinese restaurant. On the other hand, these colours go well with a commercial design created for the headquarters of an IT company.”

Your design checklist for commercial spaces.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Composition Of Desks And Cabins

Adding on to the composition of an desks and cabins which is another key aspect to include in office’s interior design brief, the founder of commercial interior designer – Flipspaces says: “The design of your employees’ desks and cabins has an impact on their attitude and work routine. Don’t forget to indicate the type of floor plan you want. Following the COVID crisis, an increasing number of enterprises have chosen for open floor plans. These ideas do away with walled cabins or cubicles, allowing for fluid cooperation and the creation of an inclusive work environment. Make certain that you express these things to your designers as effectively as feasible.”

A Coherent Theme

“Most firms prefer to use a consistent theme throughout their commercial premises, especially if they have many locations. To ensure that your concept is properly reflected in the design, it is always best to be quite explicit about it. Check that your design concept is consistent with your brand and the clients you serve,” says Kunal Shama talking about a certain theme in mind.

Break-out Area

When it comes to the relevance of break-out regions, it has grown dramatically in the post-pandemic world. He asserts: “Workers no longer want to spend their days at their desks. They wish to take some time off to relax and revitalise before returning to work. Even if you are unable to devote a major section of your office space to a break-out room, keep some portion dedicated to your employees’ leisure.”

The Use Of Nature

Lastly, a sustainable commercial designs have grown in popularity over time. Businesses are opting for biophilic designs that incorporate natural features such as potted plants, furniture made of wood and bamboo, etc., a little waterfall, and so on.

“If you are interested in sustainable biophilic designs, make sure to explain your concept to your commercial interior designers in the design brief. This will not only offer your workstation an exotic aspect, but will also allow you to develop a symbiotic relationship with nature,” concludes Kunal Shama.

ALSO READ-Kiara replaces Katrina Kaif as Slice brand ambassador