Tag: winter

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Fashion Lite Blogs

Mastering Professional Winter Style

Invest in a good pair of leather gloves, a stylish scarf, and a hat that complements your overall look. These accessories not only add flair to your outfit but also provide essential warmth. Choose accessories in neutral tones or classic patterns to maintain a professional appearance…reports Asian Lite News

As the temperature drops and winter settles in, the challenge of maintaining a professional appearance while staying warm becomes a top priority for many working individuals.

While the weather calls for transitioning from comfortable and cool to comfortable and snugish; it is entirely possible to look polished and put together even in the coldest weather.

Here’s a guide outlined by Latika Kapoor, Styling Head, of FS Life to help you navigate the world of professional winter attire.

Layer Smartly: Layering is the key to staying warm without compromising your professional image. Start with a thermal or silk base layer to trap heat close to your body. Add a stylish sweater or cardigan as your mid-layer, and finish with a tailored coat or blazer for a sophisticated look. This strategy allows you to adjust your clothing according to the fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Invest in Quality Outerwear: Your winter coat is a crucial element of your work wardrobe during the colder months. Opt for a well-structured, insulated coat in a neutral color like black, camel, or gray. A tailored wool coat or a classic trench can seamlessly complement your professional attire while keeping you warm during your commute and outdoor activities.

Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories are not just for style—they serve a practical purpose in winter workwear. Invest in a good pair of leather gloves, a stylish scarf, and a hat that complements your overall look. These accessories not only add flair to your outfit but also provide essential warmth. Choose accessories in neutral tones or classic patterns to maintain a professional appearance.

Opt for Season-Appropriate Fabrics: Selecting the right fabrics is crucial for winter workwear. Fabrics like wool, cashmere, and tweed are not only warm but also exude a professional aesthetic. Cotrise and suede are fabrics that are anticipated to make a big deal this season. Incorporate these materials into your wardrobe with tailored trousers, skirts, and blazers for a polished and warm ensemble.

Tailored Fit Matters: A well-tailored outfit not only looks more professional but also helps to trap heat close to your body. Ensure that your winter workwear fits you properly, especially if you are layering. Tailored jackets, pants, and dresses not only enhance your appearance but also contribute to better insulation.

Experiment with Dark Colors: Dark colors have a slimming effect and are also more forgiving in terms of hiding any winter-related stains or dirt. Incorporate a mix of black, navy, and charcoal into your winter wardrobe for a professional and practical approach.

Don’t Forget Indoor Attire: Remember that you’ll be spending a significant portion of your day indoors. Choose clothing that is easy to layer and de-layer as you move between indoor and outdoor spaces. Avoid heavy, cumbersome outerwear that may be uncomfortable when worn inside.

Navigating winter workwear doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By strategically layering, investing in quality outerwear, accessorizing thoughtfully, choosing warm yet stylish footwear, opting for season-appropriate fabrics, prioritizing a tailored fit, experimenting with dark colors, and considering indoor attire, you can maintain a professional and polished look throughout the colder months. Most importantly, be thoughtful about your body type and pick your attire accordingly. Always make sure to embrace your body and style rather than hoping onto trends set by influencers etc.

ALSO READ-Mastering the Art of Red Lips for Every Occasion

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India News Politics

Winter session of Parliament to be held from Dec 4

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said in a post on X that the session will have 15 sittings spread over 19 days…reports Asian Lite News

The winter session of Parliament will be held next month from December 4 to 22. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said in a post on X that the session will have 15 sittings spread over 19 days.

“Winter Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 4th December and continue till 22nd December having 15 sittings spread over 19 days. Amid Amrit Kaal looking forward to discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the session,” he said.

The session will be held a day after the declaration of results of assembly polls in five states – Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Telangana.

The outcome of the polls is expected to have resonance in the session.

While the government will seek to push its legislative agenda, opposition parties are likely to press for discussion on issues of concern for them.

Several important Bills are likely to be taken up for consideration and passage during the Winter Session, including three legislations seeking to replace the Indian Penal Code, the Evidence Act, and the Code of Criminal Procedure, as well as a Bill related to the appointment of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners.

Another item on the agenda will be the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee’s report on the “cash-for-query” allegations against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, recommending her expulsion from the Lok Sabha. In order for the expulsion to come into effect, the House must adopt the panel’s report.

This will also be the first full session to be held in the new Parliament building. A five-day Special Session had been held in September, during which the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had ceremonially moved their sittings to the new building.

The historic Women’s Reservation Bill was the first legislation to be passed in the new Parliament building. It seeks to provide 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State assemblies.

The 75-year history of the old Parliament building was also commemorated during the Special Session. That building will now be used as an additional space for parliamentary events, and a part of it will be converted into a museum to preserve the history of the iconic structure.

The Winter session will be concluded before Christmas and will be the last session of the parliament this year.

The BJP-led NDA government called a five-day special session of the Parliament in September. The special session was conducted in the new parliament building, in which the government discussed the 75-year history of the old parliament building, which will be retrofitted to provide additional space for parliamentary events and a part of the old building will be converted into a museum to preserve the history of the iconic structure.

However, the winter session in 2022 – from 7 December to 23 – was the shortest in recent decades, with only 13 sittings. The winter session in 2021 – from 29 November to 22 December – convened for 18 days. In 2019, it was scheduled from 18 November to 13 December, with 20 sittings. The Parliament did not have a winter session in 2020 because of the pandemic.

Earlier, a 5-day-long special session of Parliament was held to enter the new Parliament building from September 18 to 22. The special session witnessed historical moments when the first session in the new  building was organised and the Women’s Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam) passed. Parliamentarians also took part in the discussion on Parliament’s 75-year journey, starting from the Constituent Assembly that first met on December 9, 1946.

Earlier, the Monsoon Session of 2023 was held from July 20, 2023 to August 11, 2023. Lok Sabha functioned for 43% of its scheduled time and Rajya Sabha functioned for 55%. Twenty-three Bills were passed during this session. This session also saw the discussion on the first no-confidence motion of the 17th Lok Sabha.

his session saw high legislative activity despite Parliament working for just half of its scheduled time. Most Bills were passed with little scrutiny. 56% of Bills introduced in this session were passed by both Houses. On average, a Bill introduced in this session was passed within eight days of introduction.

For example, Bills expanding the discretionary powers of the LG in Delhi, allowing for mining of strategic minerals like lithium, and regulating personal data were passed by Parliament within seven days of introduction. The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023 was passed within five days of introduction.

Out of 25 Bills introduced, three have been referred to committees. In this Lok Sabha, so far, 17% Bills have been referred to Committees. This is lower as compared to the last three Lok Sabhas. Of the 23 Bills passed in this session, seven have been examined by Standing Committees.

ALSO READ-Parliamentary Panel to Review 3 Bills to Replace Criminal Laws

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-Top News Afghanistan Environment

Afghan farmers hit hard by severe drought and harsh winter

The organization added that FAO requires USD 252.4 million to assist eight million people in Afghanistan in 2023, according to TOLO News…reports Asian Lite News

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said in a report that severe and widespread drought and a bitterly cold winter have impacted farmers in Afghanistan, reported TOLO News.

“Severe and widespread drought, in addition to an extremely harsh winter, have impacted farmers…,” reported the Food and Agriculture Organization. Referring to Afghanistan, the FAO added that 80 percent of Afghan families are dependent on agriculture for their livelihood.

“With 80 percent of families dependent on agriculture for their food and income, humanitarian livelihood support is critical,” FAO added.

The FAO mentioned in a report published in 2022, “Every USD $1 spent to protect rural livelihoods saved around USD $7 in additional humanitarian assistance, generated further income for Afghan families and supplied food in local markets.”

Moreover, the organization added that FAO requires USD 252.4 million to assist eight million people in Afghanistan in 2023, according to TOLO News.

Abdul Baseer Taraki, an economist, said that since the Taliban is not recognized, there is less assistance.

“Currently, our country is not recognized, the banking system is problematic, the business is down and we are forced to accept less than 30 to 40 percent of assistance,” he said.

However, Abdul Latif Nazari, the Deputy Minister of Economy, said that the main reasons for poverty are the imposed sanctions on Afghanistan and the suspension of international assistance for infrastructural projects, reported TOLO News.

“The sanctions and freezing of Afghan assets will undoubtedly have their effects on the livelihood of the people of Afghanistan,” said Nazari.

Furthermore, in June, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) report said that the estimated number of people in need of humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan has surged to 28.8 million from 28.3 million which was recorded at the beginning of 2023, according to TOLO News.

Livestock farmers hit by drought

Livestock farmers said that due to drought in Bamyan province of Afghanistan, animal fodder has decreased which has made agriculture, especially feeding livestock, very challenging, TOLOnews reported.

Lamenting over the challenges faced by Livestock farmers on a daily basis in the province, they said that the lack of fodder is not the only problem but the occurrence of various animal diseases has also had a bad effect on livestock farming and has reduced their income, TOLOnews said. One of the Bamiyan livestock farmers is Mohammad Kazem. He claimed that while he once kept close to 60 sheep, he is now only able to feed10 sheep.

“The drought affected me so much that I was keeping fifty or sixty sheep at that time and that was easy for me. Now that I keep ten sheep, we are in trouble. Now our children are shepherding them. I give them water from the well,” Mohammad Kazem said, according to TOLOnews.

Livestock farmers claimed that in the past, their livelihoods were supported by raising livestock, but that this is no longer possible for them.

According to livestock farmer Mohammad Alim, “Drought and persistent pests have presented people with challenges, which has reduced the number of people’s livestock year by year.”

“Eighty per cent of the people have sold their livestock because of both disease and drought,” said Mohammad Baqir, another livestock farmer, as the situation remains grim in the province.

Given that the majority of Afghans live in great poverty, it is the humanitarian organisations that have navigated the way for Afghan families to get basic amenities and have provided essential relief and services to the people.

With time, the situation of people in Afghanistan has become miserable. People continue to face food shortages, and the basic amenities to live have become a far cry for all. Moreover, the situation of women in the country has only got worse. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Dozens dead as devastating floods hit Afghanistan

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Lite Blogs

Winter skincare routine to solve severe skin issues

The skin becomes dry and develops a covering of dead skin cells during the colder months. Make sure to wash your skin daily and exfoliate it once or twice a week…reports Asian Lite News

Winter is here! While the chilly wind brings on a festive mood, it also makes us want to stay sedentary, drink hot cocoa, and snuggle up under a blanket. There are many benefits to winter, but there are also some things we’d rather avoid. Cold winters result in a climate that dries out the skin and brings up many skincare concerns. Worry not, as we’ve got you covered.

In order to maintain your winter skin glowing and youthful, it’s time to switch to rich moisturisers and lip balms. Keep scrolling to take the confusion out of switching towards an ideal winter skincare routine.

Although it is advised to follow a dermatologist-prescribed winter skincare routine to solve severe skin issues, here are some basic skincare tips that can work wonders for you.

Switch to a moisturizing and gentle cleanser

In every skincare regimen, cleansing is undoubtedly the most crucial step. However, with the onset of winter, switch to a gentler cleanser to avoid excessive drying of the skin. Select products with a cream or balm base to help your skin remain moisturised while the dirt is removed. Our skin dries out in the winter because there is less moisture in the air. Use a hydrating cleanser to moisturise your skin during these circumstances and avoid any additional harm.

Opt for a heavier moisturizer

Winter calls for richer or heavier products to efficiently lock in hydration, whereas the summer season was all about light gel-based moisturisers. It’s time to switch to a moisturiser that is extremely moisturising. You might choose ingredients like Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid.

Never skip out on a good SPF

In spite of the fact that the sun might not be visible in the winter because of the hazy weather, you should still use sunscreen. Your skin can still be harmed by the sun’s rays, which can lead to pigmentation, sunspots, and other skin problems. Applying sunscreen with a small amount of foundation will offer sunscreen protection to your makeup.

4. Exfoliation is the key

The skin becomes dry and develops a covering of dead skin cells during the colder months. Make sure to wash your skin daily and exfoliate it once or twice a week. You may get rid of the buildup of debris and dead skin cells on your skin by exfoliating it. Your skin will glow and your blood flow will be increased by the gentle massage.

5. Coat your skin with hydrating body butter

Invest in a rich, creamy body butter that includes shea butter and cocoa oils to hydrate your skin. To ensure proper skin penetration, apply the cream right after your shower. (ANI)

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Lite Blogs

Stylish bollywood celebs at dior fall/winter 2023 show

Bollywood veteran actress Rekha was seen wearing a classic lavender and gold Kanjeevaram silk saree, looking as chic and refined as ever…reports Asian Lite News

The house of Dior presents its fall/winter 2023 collection on March 31, 2023 while all eyes are on the famous Gateway of India. The city’s chaos and Dior’s legacy’s zen are what weave together the creative strands.

Sonam Kapoor, Karisma Kappor, Deva Cassel, Rekha, Liza Koshy, Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli, and a long roster of others are at the forefront and on the radar. But the Lady Dior is our choice for the year’s most desirable purse. Here, we’ve compiled a list of Mumbai’s Dior Fall/Winter 2023 show’s most stylish celebs.

Karisma Kapoor

Dior Pre Fall 2023 grey cotton and silk dress worn by Karisma Kapoor. She also had heels and a bag from Dior.

Deva Cassel

Deva Cassel wore a Dior Spring-Summer 2023 green silk dress with a Dior bag and shoes.

Ananya Panday

Ananya Panday also opted for a hot pink outfit for the Dior Fall 2023 presentation at the Gateway of India, which included a half-sleeve cropped top and a mini-length skirt.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli looked elegant in a French luxury fashion house ensemble, with Virat complementing Anushka’s yolk yellow sleeveless dress with a double-breasted grey blazer, trousers, and a white round-neck shirt.

Liza Koshy

Liza Koshy looked cute in a Dior Spring-Summer 2023 floral white printed cotton coord.

Rekha

Bollywood veteran actress Rekha was seen wearing a classic lavender and gold Kanjeevaram silk saree, looking as chic and refined as ever.

Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss wore a Dior Cruise 2023 black embroidered wool jacket, black silk shirt and a black wool skirt. She also sported a Dior bag and shoes.

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja

Sonam Kapoor donned a hot pink Dior runway outfit. It has a button-down blouse and midi-length skirt set that are accessorised with kitten heels.

(Photo source: instagram)

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-Top News UK News

Coldest day of year expected in parts of UK next week

All areas will be placed under alert between 1am on Monday and midnight on Thursday…reports Asian Lite News

Next week will bring the coldest day of the year so far across parts of the UK, with yellow warnings for snow and ice in place for most of Scotland and north-east England.

The Met Office said the week would begin with temperatures dropping to near freezing in northern parts of the UK, with parts of north-east Scotland feeling like -4C (24.8F).

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather alert and placed north-west England and Yorkshire under a level 3 alert, meaning there is a 90% chance of severely cold weather, icy conditions or heavy snow, which could increase the health risk to vulnerable people. The rest of the UK has been placed under level 2.

All areas will be placed under alert between 1am on Monday and midnight on Thursday.

Craig Snell, a senior meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Going into next week we do see a bit of a change with even colder air coming through and then an increase in risk of sudden disruption due to some sleet, snow and some ice.

“So at the moment, the main focus is across northern and eastern parts of the UK where we have issued warnings already for Monday and Tuesday for the risk of some snow showers moving in from the north.

He added that the Met Office yellow warnings, which are in place for all of Monday and Tuesday, were unlikely to change.

He said: “Scotland and some eastern parts of England have warnings going throughout Monday and Tuesday. In other parts of the country – we are keeping a close eye on it – there is a chance that we could see some snow further south as we kind of go through the week ahead.”

Agostinho Sousa, the head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “During periods like this, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather, as it can have a serious impact on health.

ALSO READ-Over 160 dead as Afghans battle cold wave

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Homemade winter recipes

Finding a little cheer over the holidays can be harder than ever because of the winter’s long, dark nights and chilly temperatures. And this year, if the winter blues are affecting you particularly hard, we recommend grabbing some homemade winter treats.

GAJJRELLA HALWA WITH NUTTY CHOCOLATE CRUNCH

Ingredients

Gajjrella

Milk

Carrot

Sugar

Raisins

Cashew nut

Green cardamom

Desi ghee

Khoya danedar

Sweet tart

Maida

Butter

Sugar (breakfast)

Milk

Method:

Clean and peel carrots,grate coarsely.

In a deep pan add carrots, milk and green cardamom (crushed)

Put it on fire and cook till carrot is cooked and entire milk is consumed

In a separate kadhai add ghee. When warm add raisins and cashew nut.

Saute for a minute Add 3/4th Khoya and saute for another 3-4 minutes.

Now add cooked carrots and sugar. Cook for another 3- 4 minutes.

Turn off the flame and let it cool.

Line individual pie shells with Gajjrella, top with crumbled Khoya garnished with dark chocolate crunch

To prepare tart Knead soft dough with all the ingredients. Line tart mould with the dough

Bake in oven at 180-200 degree Celsius for 20-25 minutes

Let it cool and demould.

Use as required.

BEET ROOT HALWA

Ingredients

Beet Root

Desi Ghee

Sugar

Khoyadanedar(Reduced milk)

Green Cardamoms (powder)

Almond chopped

Cashewnut chopped

Method:

First rinse, peel and grate the beet root. Heat ghee in a heavy pan on medium flame.

Add grated beet root and mix well with ghee.

Cook beet root on medium flame. Continue to stir until the moisture evaporates.

Add sugar and continue saute until beet root halwa turns thick. Add khoya and keep stirring to avoid burning. Switch off the flame.

Add nuts and cardamom powder, mix well and serve it hot or cold.

Some traditional Indian delights.(photo:IANSLIFE)

LAUKI TART HALWA

Ingredients

Lauki (Bottle gourd)

Desi Ghee

Sugar

Khoya danedar (Reduced milk)

Green Cardamoms (powder)

Almond chopped

Cashewnut chopped

Method

Rinse, peel and grate the lauki and remove the centre portion. Heat ghee in a heavy pan on medium flame.

Add the grated lauki and mix very well with the ghee. Cook lauki on medium flame. Continue to stir until the moisture evaporates. Add sugar and saute till lauki halwa turns thick.

Add Khoya and keep stirring to avoid burning. Switch off the flame.

Add nuts and cardamom powder, mix well and serve it hot or cold.To give a twist to this halwa,you can get small readymade tart shells and transfer the lauki halwa in it. It tastes excellent when binged in together.

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Bollywood Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Kiara style of ‘winter routine’

Kiara Advani-inspired Winter Skincare Hacks.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Before selecting any product, you must first determine your skin type. To ensure that your skincare regime works perfectly fine, it is essential to consistently apply the right products to your skin for good results…reports Asian Lite News

While rumours are rife that Kiara Advani will be soon tying the knot with beau and fellow actor Sid Malhotra, we may not know those details, but what we do know for sure is that Advani has the best faces in the business.

We all have wondered how celebs manage to maintain such flawless skin, and with Kiara Advani posting her no-makeup selfies on social media platforms, we can’t help but admire the actress’ flawless and glowing skin. Be it her acting skills, her sartorial choices or her beauty game, she knows how to be in the lime light especially these days

Who doesn’t want a glowing skin that radiates from within this winter season? In the rush to achieve Insta-worthy skin, it’s common to skip the most important step in any winter skincare routine – determining your skin type. So for all Kiara admirers out there – the actress shares her glow-giving secrets:

With breakup rumours gaining ground, Sidharth, Kiara share cryptic posts on social media.

Understanding your skin type: Before selecting any product, you must first determine your skin type. To ensure that your skincare regime works perfectly fine, it is essential to consistently apply the right products to your skin for good results.

In order to do that, make a note of it when you wake up in the morning. However, it is imperative to follow a routine and choose skin care as well as beauty products made from effective formulations – working in your favor to hydrate and nourish the skin, revealing its natural radiance by dodging dryness.

A serum-inclusive skin care routine: We all love how radiant the skin feels after a skincare routine. However, the importance of face serum is yet to be discovered by a lot of audiences. We generally tend to use a lot of products, layer after layer on our face. This generally happens when serums don’t typically sink into skin but penetrate in seconds. In such a scenario, “My first step is to cleanse my skin, followed by the application of a face serum. I can rely on the Charmis Vitamin C serum. The serum really makes your skin feel hydrated and because of its non-sticky texture, my skin feels softer. I’m obsessed with the instant glossy skin-feel that I experience as soon as I apply. This is one of the only serums I’ve ever tried in which I notice an actual difference in the texture, clarity, and especially the tone of my skin.”

A Workout Routine that makes you happy: A workout routine is as important as any other, and it’s also true that working out releases hormones (endorphins) that keep the skin alive and add to its overall glow. So have a routine that works for you, in place. I do suggest a 4-5 day active workout a week for keeping yourself and your skin fit!

Kiara Advani.

Starting the day with nutrients: Starting your day with some lukewarm water and lemon contributes to a healthy metabolism, cleansing your skin, the system as well as refreshing your body. My nutritious lunch consists of ‘Ghar ka khaana’ – simple roti and vegetables such as spinach, pumpkin, and sprouts with a minimal amount of salt and oil. The more you eat healthy food, the finer your skin becomes,

Just by adhering to these simple steps shared by most-loved celebrity, you can also make your own path to achieve flawless skin. So what are you waiting for, it is time for you to try them out and let us know!

ALSO READ-Popular makeup hacks to avoid

Categories
Health Lite Blogs

Tips to deal with joint pain in winters

How to take care of your bone and joint health in winters.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Joint pains are common in winter season, as the cold weather can reduce blood circulation to fingers and toes which could worsen joint pains…writes Dr Harish Ghoota

Winter is here and with temperature dipping every single day, it is getting harder for people to manage bone and joint pain. This increased joint pain during winter is due to the increased inflammation in one or more joints. It is also because there is less supply of blood to the peripheral regions in the body due to which one’s joints become stiff, causing pain in the joints and bones.

Joint pains are especially common in the winter season, making life difficult especially for arthritis patients. Not tackling them effectively could have a detrimental effect on your daily productivity and overall well-being. Here’s what you can do to avoid excessive pain in the joints.

Joint pains are common in winter season, as the cold weather can reduce blood circulation to fingers and toes which could worsen joint pains. Muscles also become tighter at lower temperatures resulting in stiffness and pain. Besides, people tend to stay indoors during winter which could mean limited exposure to sunlight and may result in Vitamin D deficiency. Here are a few tips to deal with bone pain:

. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and reduce inflammation and further reduce the friction between joint surfaces

. Keep yourself warm in winter clothing, home heating and other necessities

Oh my Knee! Is the pain age related or something else?.(photo:IANSLIFE)

. Regular exercise will help keep your joints supple and maintain flexibility. It could also help with lubrication of the joints and improve blood flow

. Enough exposure to the sun (Vitamin D) will help in building and improving the bones

. A balanced diet with a rich amount of Vitamin D, and Vitamin C, Omega 3 fatty acids, ginger, soya bean, fatty fish, green vegetables, nuts and seeds, plenty of water, and other collagen supplements will be helpful in joint and bone care during winter season

. Regular movements in the body will promote flexibility in your joints

People who are overweight have more chances of getting arthritis. One should maintain his/her weight in order to keep their knees healthy.

ALSO READ-Health balancing amid hustle-bustle of work-life

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Lite Blogs

Have some ‘freezy’ getaways during winter

Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Intimate chalets primed for entertainment in the Alps. Set in tranquil French wilds, looking out to horse-dotted pastures and the snow-tipped peak of Mont Blanc, this exquisite pair of private chalets have been designed with multigenerational families or large group of friends in mind…reports Asian Lite News

Winter is upon us! Winter is the best season for travel, whether your ideal getaway involves an exhilarating ski trip or a flight to a warmer location.

The hidden getaways from Ultima Collection are made to feel like home, whether you’re rejuvenating at your own health retreat in the Swiss Alps, skiing from your own serviced chalet in France, or savouring every moment on your villa’s private dock in the Mediterranean. Beyond the carefully chosen ski chalets, retreats, spas and villas, you’ll discover a group of professionals with unyielding standards who work to offer their visitors highly individualised experiences in complete comfort and solitude. This is savouring life to the fullest.

Ultima Gstaad

Set in the rolling meadows of Gstaad, Ultima Gstaad is where timeless Swiss luxury meets the mountains. Gstaad is a pristine Alpine village that’s somehow equally out-of-this-world as it is down-to-earth. Experience all its wonders, undoubtedly one of the finest properties in Switzerland. Sink into your own uniquely designed suite or residence, reminiscent of a private chalet, to live in utter luxury and discretion.

From wall to wall, you’ll discover lovingly curated artwork, plush interiors, and a smooth-operating team to cater to your most spontaneous of requests. There are three wooden chalets of 11 suites, six private residences, a restaurant and two inviting bars. Plus, there’s a leading Swiss clinic and spa for recharging to full.

Each space is exquisitely crafted for snug evenings after a day of skiing in the mountains. Think steam fireplaces (child and dog friendly), lavish bathrooms and dark, swirling marble from floor to ceiling, and balconies with breathtaking and inescapable views of Alps.

Ultima Courchevel Belvedere

Ultima Courchevel Belvedere re-opens for the winter season on December 17. The resort is made up of 13 ski-in and ski-out residences with privileged, uninterrupted views of the forested mountains. Balance days of skiing with mind-soothing treatments in the resort’s world-class spas, private chef experiences, and moments in the elegant lobby and terrace area.

Post-ski body massages and morning dips in the outdoor heated pool as snow falls around you. That’s the dreamy reality for the guests. Dependant on which residence you’re staying in, you will access one of the two state-of-the-art spas. They feature sensual saunas, hammams, fitness rooms, heated pools, and an outdoor jacuzzi. Dedicated spa therapists and masseuses are there to provide personalised wellness experiences and innovative treatments such as yoga-focused cold therapy.

Each residence comprises four or five bedrooms that sleep up to eight to ten adults. It’s perfect for a family or group of friends looking to savour their precious time together. What’s truly special about this property is its location among three different valleys; connecting to the upscale 1850 and the edge of the La Rosiere Forest. Natural beauty is not in short supply here. Breakaway from the crowds to a retreat with bubbling outdoor pools, atmospheric fitness rooms, and talented massage therapists whenever the moment calls.

Ultima Crans-Montana

No one leaves Ultima Crans-Montana a little bit in love — it leaves you completely awestruck. Positioned in the altitude of Plateau de Plan-Mayens, this haven of two private chalets can be enjoyed by multi-generational families and groups of friends.

Know that nothing is done in half measures here, with an on-site lake surrounded by idyllic alpine wilds, a quartz-clear swimming pool that mirrors the mountains beyond and a heavenly spa, covering 1,000m2, that much larger hotels couldn’t claim to match. Rejuvenate in the sauna, hammam, fitness gym, jacuzzi and heated outdoor pool. It’s all brought to life by Baccarat crystal chandeliers and Kelsey Grey and Bahia Blanca marbles.

It goes above and beyond accommodating a large group of up to 38 guests. It’s made up of two ultra-luxurious private chalets, which can be reserved together or Chalet One by itself. Both have access to the retreat’s monumental spa and outdoor pool area.

Chalet One, covering 3850m2, has eight rooms. Each has its own dressing area, bathroom, and balcony with views of the surrounding wilds. Children can stay in the two dormitories. There’s also an arcade room, cigar lounge, billiard room and a homely dining room that can seat up to 16 people. Chalet Two, covering 820m2, has six spacious rooms with their own dressing areas, bathrooms and balconies. There is an open kitchen for socialising, a cinema room, library and cigar lounge.

Ultima Megeve

Intimate chalets primed for entertainment in the Alps. Set in tranquil French wilds, looking out to horse-dotted pastures and the snow-tipped peak of Mont Blanc, this exquisite pair of private chalets have been designed with multigenerational families or large group of friends in mind.

There’s everything from an arcade room, underground private nightclub, stocked wine cellar, a gymnasium, and a full spa with a hammam, a massage room and dedicated hairdresser facilities. Put simply, there’s no other mountain retreat around that offers this much fun.

Hints of which you will find in the hand-carved woods and bronze-covered chimneys, bespoke furniture, leather-padded headboards and marble touches. Every bedroom has a connecting dressing room and ensuite bathroom — all curated with the beige and gold tones that have become synonymous with the signature design of Ultima Collection.

Additionally, you will have access to the property’s concierge staff, so whether it’s a chef rustling up a last-minute celebratory dinner, or the front of house mapping a walking trail for your group, your stay will be fine-tuned to you.

Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Top private luxury winter getaways.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Ultima Geneva Grand Villa

A distinctive urban retreat on the shores of lake Geneva, Ultima Geneva Grand Villa is one of the highest epitome of modern luxury. Set in a verdant grove within walking distance of the Lake’s shores, this three-floored villa is just a short journey away from the livelier city hub and Geneva International Airport.

Over three floors, the villa covers 2,000m2 and comes with a separate villa for any extended guests to enjoy their privacy. There is a master bedroom with its own terrace, seven double bedrooms, a grand cinema, and a wellness space comprising a jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, pool and fitness gymnasium.

Shed the weight of the city, or simply savour time invested in you, with treatments by Swiss Perfection. All while admiring the beauty of Geneva’s nature in a space that allows you enviable views. The state-of-the-art spa has a large treatment room, a jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. You can also have access to a private fitness coach and physiotherapist.

A private chef is available to create the most memorable dining moments meant for you and your loved ones. There’s a large dining area, a wine cellar and a teppanyaki dining space perfect for group getaways or intimate family gatherings.

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