The Express Tribune hi five - December 7

Ms DECEMBER 7, 2014

ISSUE NO. 129

Feng Shui and beyond More than just de-cluttering your home

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Photography 101 page Do cameras really add 10 pounds?

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inside En vogue —

East meets West

Domestic goddess —

Crispy chicken strips

Section In-Charge: Sarah Munir Sub-Editors: Amna Hashmi Nisma Chauhan Feedback: women@tribune.com.pk

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The girl-next-door, Sarwat Gillani

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Ms

The buzz

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

MsT looks at the ancient Chinese philosophy and how it can affect our daily lives Although you may not yet be aware of it, Feng Shui affects nearly all aspects of our lives. Most people tend to associate it with construction and interior decoration but there is much more to this ancient Chinese concept than they realise. Feng Shui literally translates into ‘wind water’ and attempts to understand the relationship between nature and us, so that we may live harmoniously with our environment.

The basic premise of Feng Shui — living with nature rather than against it benefits both humans and their surroundings — stems from the underlying notion that our lives are affected by our physical and emotional environs. It implies that surrounding ourselves with negativity (symbols of death, destruction, hatred and indifference towards nature) can corrupt our lives inadvertently. On the other hand, indulging in positive energies (symbols of beauty, kindness and music, etc) enriches our lives and environment.

with Yin being an exerting force and Yan receiving the exertion. The Yin Yang theory is also used in understanding astronomy and astrology. Lastly, the Luoshu and River Chart diagrams are also frequent features in Feng Shui scriptures, forming the ‘Bagua’ which is linked to various astronomical events that can affect life on earth.

In China, Feng Shui masters commonly use the Luopan to determine the correct direction of furniture and buildings.

The Luopan is a compass that dates back to 278 BC and is surrounded by 40 concentric rings which bare the formulae of Feng Shui, according to which the most beneficial positioning is calculated. The dial of the compass is called the ‘Heaven Dial’ while the rotating base is known as the ‘Earth Base.’ The needle of the Luopan points to the southern magnetic pole of the Earth, unlike the conventional compass needles which point to both the north and the south poles.

Feng Shui was, once the preserve of the Chinese and Asian culture, but has now gained immense popularity in the West as well. In fact, the decades following the 1960’s saw countless people from around the world seeking answers in the concept, studying its history, realising its significance and ultimately, adapting it to their lives. One such example is Badr Nizari, who studied Feng Shui for nearly 25 years before joining the Feng Shui Association of Pakistan. “The impact of Feng Shui is not merely restricted to architecture,” explains Badr. “It has a strong impact on the lives of people who live in a particular place. It can affect their health, relationships, luck, finances, children and even fertility!”

The ancient Chinese laid down the principles of Feng Shui by combining some common theories, the first one relating to ‘Qi,’ a negative force believed to exist in nature.

The second theory — known as the ‘Yin Yang theory’ — can be interpreted as the modern, magnetic dipole concept,

Often referred to as the ‘mother of all natural sciences,’ the growing popularity of Feng Shui has made it an important aspect of modern-day architecture. Builders, architects, interior designers and furniture enthusiasts make it a point to incorporate the theories of Feng Shui to complete their projects successfully. Of course, the idea is to arrange the furniture or build a room or a building in such a way that will attract the most positive energy and improve the clients’ lives.

“It is a fact that the space you live in affects your mood,” says Sabiha Rita Hasan, director at Studio 19, a Karachi-based furniture workshop specialising in fusion furniture. “If the basis of Feng Shui is to infuse harmony and positivity in life, then a good interior designer should incorporate it for their clients.”

However, Sabiha believes the best way to make Feng Shui work is to personalise it to one’s needs. According to her, organised and well-kept spaces speak volumes about the aesthetic sense and personality of the individual. “It is a state

A light colour palette is always soothing.

By Tehmina Khan Design by Omer Asim

The Luopan Compass.

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THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

Art work on walls creates depth in a space.

of mind,” she suggests. “So the individual should start by clearing their minds.”

As part of the association, Badr offers expert consultation services on interior decoration, house-building and selection as well. “Feng Shui isn’t just any other ancient concept — I have actually seen a client’s luck change after they redesigned their rooms or moved houses,” says Badr. “It is all about utilising different corners of a room and designing and decorating in a way that generates positive energy.” Badr, who runs his own website called Feng Shui Pakistan, has participated in several radio programmes about the concept and maintains a social media page for those who wish to learn about it. He is also currently compiling his own book highlighting the history, significance and applications of Feng Shui in everyday situations. “Feng Shui affords easy, general life changes that come from positive energy,” he adds.

“These changes possess the power to rid an individual of a variety of problems, from financial turmoil or terminal diseases to marital difficulties and infertility.”

Unfortunately, while Feng Shui is indeed still going strong, it runs the risk of becoming a hodgepodge of superstitions and unverified ideas which are passed on from generation to generation. In Pakistan, Feng Shui has arguably, always been part of our culture albeit not as prominently as in other parts of the world. “Here, it is widely believed that building houses built on triangular plots inculcate bad luck,” says homemaker Sultana Khurshid. “Few people in Pakistan know about Feng Shui, let alone follow it. Nonetheless,

a triangular plot is perceived as a bad omen. Where does this perception come from? It is Feng Shui, just mixed and modified over the years.” Sultana’s sister, Neeti agrees and offers the example of her friend to justify it. “A friend of mine moved into a triangular house with her family, despite everyone warning them against it,” shares Neeti. “The house itself is beautiful but her life after shifting has been a series of unfortunate events. Her daughter’s engagement broke off and soon after that, her husband lost his job. Of course, all of this could be a coincidence but who knows?” Sabiha, however, holds a different opinion from Sultana and Neeti. “I don’t believe that the shape of the land, a building or house is constructed upon matters, so long as all other aspects of Feng Shui have been covered,” she says. “This includes the placement of the furniture, the colours used in the room, the size and position of its windows, etc. These are things most designers consider when working on a project.”

Unsurprisingly, many people — particularly in Pakistan — shun the concept of Feng Shui, claiming that the lack of any religious backing renders it unacceptable. “Little do they know that Feng Shui has always been there, since the dawn on mankind,” shares Badr. “For example, the city of Baghdad, as we know it today, was built on the foundations of Feng Shui!” As Sabiha says, “Whether or not Feng Shui works is not something that can be answered easily.” The only way would be to try it out and learn from experience.

Natural light source from two directions brightens up the place.

Don’t always put your furniture against walls.

Photo courtesy: Sabiha Rita Hasan

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Ms

En vogue

Yousf Patel’s latest collection, Strawberry, is ideal for semiformal events.

Coordination: Umer Mushtaq Styling: Atika Majid Label: Strawberry by Yousf Patel Photography: Khawar Jadoon Model: Sana Sarfaraz

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

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Showstoppers latest collection is a combination of Eastern embroidery and Western cuts.

Coordination: Umer Mushtaq Hair & Makeup: Angie Marshal Label: Showstopper — Multi Brand Store Karachi Photography: Khawar Jadoon Model: Laila Khan

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Ms

Lifestyle

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

By Essa Malik Taimur Design by Omer Asim

Fans of the legendary comedy series Friends may recall an episode from its second season, where the group watches some home-videos recorded by Monica and Ross’s parents during their high-school days. Although the highlight of the episode was Ross and Rachel getting together, the exchange between Monica and Chandler — when Monica tries to defend her overweight past — had us all laughing out loud. “The camera adds 10 pounds,” says Monica, to which Chandler — in all his sarcastic glory — responds, “So how many cameras were actually on you?”

Although this happened on a fictitious television show, everyone is well-aware of the infamous 10 pounds which cameras allegedly add to the subject of a picture. We all have that one friend, colleague or seemingly ageless aunty who complains about all their pictures and blames the camera for making them look fat. Have you ever wondered if this statement is actually true or not? Is a camera really to be blamed for the extra holiday weight you haven’t shed yet?

As it turns out, there is actually some merit to this phenomenon. Scientifically speaking, a camera itself suffers a disadvantage here owing to the single lens it operates on, as opposed to a pair of human eyes. When we look at something, our eyes capture the images and the brain fuses those images together, adding a third dimension to our vision for ‘depth perception.’ Unfortunately, a single-lens camera has a single perspective because of which the object loses some of its depth and appears flatter.

The excess weight can also be explained using the basic principles of lighting, without which photography is impossible. As photography uses light to make images, good lighting becomes crucial as flat light (such as those from poor light equipment or flash systems) can render a picture flat. Badly set lighting or on-camera flashes remove all the shadows around an object, therefore making it look flatter and wider. Without any distinct shadows to define the image, even a perfectly-aligned chin can become double its size. In a nutshell, poor lighting represents depth incorrectly and gives the illusion of extra weight on the subject.

To keep the weight at bay, using the right type of lens is just as important as lighting. The use of wide-angle or telephoto lenses makes images even wider due to the way light enters the camera and bends, distorting the image up. Wide-angle lenses generally have a shorter focal length which makes an individual positioned in the centre both taller and wider while those on the edges appear flatter. Telephoto lenses, on the other hand, compress perceived depth by bringing the background closer to the subject and making the latter appear larger in comparison. This converts a normal,

A single-lens camera has one perspective because of which the object loses some of its depth and appears flatter three-dimensional picture into a flat, two-dimensional one that is stretched horizontally. Of course, neither lighting nor lenses can save a picture if the angle from which it has been captured is incorrect. If you are photographed from below, expect to look shorter and heavier than you are with not just two but multiple chins!

Fortunately or unfortunately, science isn’t the only factor which proves cameras pile on the pounds: human psychology and self-image are just as important. People with negative body images or outdated perceptions of their appearance often end up shocked when the person in their picture bares little similarity to what they had imagined. At times, the shock can be rather jarring. So before you blame the camera or call your photographer untalented for clicking unsightly photographs of you, try to work on your self-esteem.

Tips for the perfect picture For the subject

• Although it might not always be possible, you should try and wear clothes which flatter your physique. Avoid horizontal prints and stripes as they create optical illusions and make you appear wider. Dark colours and heels are adviseable for women who want to look leaner in their pictures.

• Take a cue from celebrities and how they pose at red carpet events. If you are facing the camera directly, placing one leg in front of the other, bending it slightly and pointing your toe at the camera. This shifts your weight backwards and makes you look thin. Even if you aren’t facing the camera, this pose will add dimension to your body.

• Always keep your chin up for a longer neck and defined jaw line.

• Smile as naturally as you possibly can lest your cheeks appear puffy.

• In group shots, try to stand as far away from the cameraman as possible.

However, if the camera is centred and you are standing as part of a row, try to be close to the camera as people look larger on the edges of such compositions.

• Your mother was right when she used to scold you to sit straight because posture is everything. When posing, stand up straight, pull your shoulder back and stomach in.

• Never allow anyone to photograph you from below. If the photographer isn’t shooting from eye-level or above, it’s time to hire someone else.

For the photographer

• To avoid making your subject(s) look big, try to shoot from as great a distance as possible. Also, use a focal length to tighten the composition.

• Avoid flashes and use good lighting.

• Position your subject(s) in a way that they appear small in comparison to the background, creating an illusion of depth. You should also turn their waist at a three-quarter angle (or whichever angle that makes their cross-section narrower).

• Make sure the subject sticks their chin out to minimise layers and highlight their jaw line.

• When photographing women, ask them to tilt their shoulders and hips in opposite angles to make their figure appear more defined.

Domestic goddess 7

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, DECEMBER 7, 2014

Crispy Chicken Strips

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By Arooj Waqar

Make this coffee shop favourite at home!

Crispy chicken strips are finger food at its very best!

Chicken 350 gms Mustard sauce 1 tsp Flour 3/4th of a cup Baking powder 1/2 tsp Cumin powder 1/2 tsp Chaat masala 1/2 tsp Oil for frying Salt (to taste) Red chilli powder (to taste) Water to thicken the paste

• Cut the boneless chicken into long, finger-shaped strips and marinate the pieces in salt, red chilli powder and mustard sauce. Allow the strips to rest for at least an hour so the flavour can sink in completely.

• In a separate dish, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, red chilli powder, cumin powder and chaat masala together. Add some water to make a smooth batter.

• Dip the strips in the batter and make sure they are coated completely.

• Heat oil on medium flame and fry the strips until they become golden brown.

• Serve warm!

Note: You may also coat the chicken with breadcrumbs for added crispiness.

There is more to a marinade than mixing sundry ingredients and splattering them onto meat. A good marinade does all the work, adding flavour to your meal before you even begin cooking it. Check out these pointers for effective marination to make your meat finger lickin’ good!

Cool it: While most of us apply the marinade and set the dish aside at room temperature, it is better to cover the meat and refrigerate it for an hour before cooking. The cool temperature allows the marinade to settle better and also prevents the growth of bacteria which multiply faster in open air.

Bag it: You might be used to marinating meat in large bowls but did you know that a re-sealable plastic bag is much more convenient? Not only do these bags take up lesser space in the refrigerator, they are also non-reactive and the vacuum in the bag promotes better absorption. Ziploc bags are particularly useful when marinating small pieces of meat: they are compact, sealable and easy to clean up.

Save it: Before adding the raw meat, you should always set aside some extra liquid marinade for dipping or drizzling over the finished dish before serving.

Watch it: When it comes to marination, timing is almost as important as the ingredients! You must bear in mind that raw meat of any kind — be it poultry, seafood or red meat — will turn mushy if left in an acidic marinade (citrus juice or vinegar) for too long. In general, seafood should be marinated for no more than 45 minutes and poultry and small pieces of red meat are done in two hours. Whole chickens or large cuts of mutton or beef should be left overnight for best results.

What good is finger-food without an equally delicious dip to compliment it? Serve chicken strips with this sweet and sour, honey mustard dip that will leave everyone wanting more!

• Mayonnaise 1 and 1/2 cup • Honey 1/2 cup • Dijon mustard 1/4 cup

• Mix all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl until they are blended together completely.

• Allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.

Woman of the week 8

At an award

show.

With my husband Fahad Mirza.

Actor/Model

With Deepak Pe rwani.

MsT rounds up four basic styles this wardrobe staple comes in and tells you how to make them your own.

Design by Umar Waqas

Believe it or not, cardigans are just one of those things every woman must have in her closet. Regardless of whether your live in the chilly hillsides of Islamabad or the tropical, sea breeze of Karachi, a funky cardigan will be your go-to gear for any social gathering during winter. They come in an array of shapes, sizes and styles to suit your personality and the type of look you are aiming for. However, some cardigans tend to compliment certain body types more than others and trying to pull off one that doesn’t fit you right can be a real fashion downer. To find out which style will suit you best, follow our short guide to the ideal cardigan styles for your body type. Picking a winter wardrobe was never this easy!

The T h simple, wai waist-length cardi: Classic and traditional, the waist-length cardigan will go great with skinny jeans and matching tunics. Unfortunately, many people confuse these cardigans with shrugs which end just below the bust or halfway down the stomach which can make one look wider. The right way to wear this length is to make sure the cardigan comes down at least till your bellybutton.

How to wear: Pair your waistlength cardi with fitted or flared empire-waist tops and skinny jeans.

A pair of matching boots will look great too!

Get it from: The Aster for Rs2,999

The T h oversized, Aztec A z cardi: This T h long cardigan drapes ca over your thighs and often ofte comes in prints inspired by the Aztec community that lived in America during the 16th century. Owing to the huge size, this style of cardigan can be rather difficult to pull off. For instance, pairing them with a loose top or bottom, especially boyfriend jeans or palazzo pants, will add unwanted bulk to your physique and simply look sloppy.

How to wear: Be sure to compliment your big cardigan with fitted clothes. A pair of leggings or tights would look best and keep you from looking big.

Get it from: Zeen for Rs2,796

The wrap cardi: T L a shorter Like version of the ve oversized cardigan, ove wraps tend to cover you around but are much more fitted and casual in appearance. The wrap cardigan looks great with simple, straightfitting bottoms and medium-length inners.

How to wear: Wraps go perfectly with dark-coloured pants which slim down your silhouette. The draping lapels create a nice length from top to bottom and make the wearer appear leaner too!

Get it from: Firdous for Rs3,150

The boyfriend cardi: Boyfriend cardigans our a man’s sweater with a girly touch. They are generally tight around the waist and shoulders but roomy in the middle. Every young girl must have at least one or two, neutral-coloured boyfriend cardigans in her closet! However, make sure you don’t wear them over flowy kurtas or long skirts as that can make your hips look wider. A boyfriend cardigan looks cutest when paired with skinny jeans and sneakers.

How to wear: These cardigans can be worn with virtually any top so long as it isn’t too long and dressy. Boyfriend cardigans are strictly casual so pairing them with formal pieces is never a good idea. As long as your shirt is short and bottoms are fitted and slim, you are good to go!

Get it from: Mango for Rs2,990 SOURCE: BABBLE.COM