The Express Tribune hi five - July 26

Ms JULY 26, 2015

ISSUE NO. 162

Striking the right chord Understanding music therapy

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The budget nursery

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inside En vogue — Floral fiesta

Domestic goddess —

Cool your day with lychee cooler

Section In-Charge: Dilaira Dubash Sub-Editors: Amna Hashmi Nisma Chauhan Designer: Umar Waqas Feedback: women@tribune.com.pk

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The talented Alizeh Tahir

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The buzz

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

CHORD

By Zohaib Amjad

American writer Kahlil Gibran described music perfectly when he said, “Music is the language of the spirit which opens the secrets of life, bringing peace, abolishing strife.” We cannot deny the power of music because each and every one of us has experienced it first hand - when we basked in romantic ballads following a break-up or banged our heads to the beat of a heavy metal song. There is something soothing about music that touches us deep inside, irrespective of the genre.

It can liven up a stale room, uplift our moods and help us express what words cannot do justice to.

For years, scientists have been enthralled by the effect music has on mankind, conducting numerous studies and experiments and ultimately, inventing music therapy.

Arguably, the concept of music therapy might be dated, seeing as how music is one of the oldest forms of art known to man. But it really caught on following the 2011 shootout in Tucson, Arizona wherein American congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the head. The wounds were so serious that Gabrielle ended up losing speech and music therapy was one of the measures undertaken to pull her through. According to her therapist Meagan Morrow, helping Gabrielle regain her own voice has given music therapy a voice too, so much so that the Meagan was named ‘Person of the Year’ by journalist David Muir.

In a nutshell, music therapy involves playing or listening to music as treatment for various mental and physical ailments.

These range from psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety to physiological issues such as insomnia, substance addiction and even heart disease. “Different facets of music, such as the physical, emotional, social and aesthetic features are effectively made use of by a trained professional,” explains Sohail Khan, a qualified music therapist. Sohail is the pioneer of this practice here in Pakistan and in 2010 launched the first Music Therapy Centre in Karachi.

Through the interweaving of seven notes in and out, the way music casts its influence on the psyche of the listener is nothing short than magical. Khaleeq-uz-Zaman, head of neurosurgery at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, believes the key lies in the rhythm of a song. “Any kind of music soothes the nerves. The genre of music that suits people the most benefits them the best,” says Khaleeq.

Research conducted at McGill University in Canada corroborates this, suggesting that music is a great antianxiolytic (a drug used to reduce anxiety) as compared to medicines.

This form of therapy has gained credence over the years, paving its way into hospitals, schools, private gatherings and even community centres. Many doctors and therapists recommend music therapy to alleviate existing or possible depression in their patients. Although no side effects have

yet been recorded, the process is a lot more complicated than one might expect. “Before the therapy is commenced, a rigorous plan must be worked out in collaboration with the patient, highlighting the process and its goals,” explains Sohail. “There is a round of interviews with the patient’s family as well. Reviewing the patient’s records and conducting some standardised assessment tests furthers the cause of the music therapist.”

There are many success stories to credit music therapy and the many advantages it serves. Unfortunately, the concept is still relatively nascent in Pakistan. The case of former engineer Henry Shelton from Sheffield, United Kingdom, however, is a great example of how music therapy can improve one’s quality of life. For the past six years, the 74-year-old has been residing in a nursing home on account of his deteriorating health. His dementia and sporadic seizures have escalated to the point that he no longer recognises his own daughter, Kathryn. A student of psychology at University of Sheffield, Kathryn vouches for music therapy, saying, “When subjected to music, my otherwise introverted father eloquently expresses how much it has helped him through his austere times.”

Pakistan lies at the other end of the spectrum as the lack of awareness and acceptance of music therapy has hindered progress. According to consultant psychologist Qudsia Mehmood, “Music benefits the nervous system and overall body greatly. But Pakistan doesn’t yet realise the advantages that it can provide.” But with an increasing number of local doctors, therapists and patients turning their heads towards the practice, things might be looking up for music therapy.

Zohaib Amjad is a scientist with a major in molecular pathology. He tweets as @infectiousuni

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THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

With so much hype and the increasing awareness regarding music therapy and its benefits, many charity organisations such as American Music Therapy Association have sprung up over the past few years.

In fact, world-renowned musicians like legendary British rock band Coldplay and Latin crooner Ricky Martin have gotten involved in this venture as well.

Shakespeare was right when he said, “If music be the food of love, play on, give me excess of it.” This popular quote from Shakespeare’s comedy play Twelfth Night has been echoed by many who seek pleasure in music. Little do they know that this particular hobby is reaping greater benefits than simply entertaining them for a while.

Slow, relaxing music has been found to lower blood pressure and regulate the pulse and breathing rates. Also, antibodies – used by the immune system to identify and neutralise pathogen – multiply when exposed to music.

Music has been proven to abate the perception of pain in our minds.

According to a 2011 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, listening to music lowers stress and pain hormones.

Music therapy can either be administered in the form of a group setting or one-on-one sessions. Group therapy is generally opted for by those who find comfort in social interaction. A typical therapy session may involve:

Tune Your Brain, authored by the ethnomusicologist Elizabeth Miles, elaborates that classical music helps in learning, memory, creativity and focus.

Singing and making music with different instruments.

Moving to music or light dancing.

Writing songs and analysing lyrics.

Rehearsal of social skills and role playing.

Research has indicated a correlation between rhythm and movement. The rhythmic areas of the brain are stimulated when they hear music, which in turn spurs motor responses and reflexes. Poor coordination and balance issues, such as a walking stride or gait, can be perfected using music therapy. Although this may sound complicated, the process involves simple activities like tapping your feet in synchronisation with a partner.

Design By Eesha Azam

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En vogue

Sana Abbas showcases her latest collection Coordination: Umer Mushtaq Hair and make-up: Saba Ansari at Sabs Designer: Sana Abbas Photography: Rohail Khaled Model: Abeer Rizvi

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

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Lifestyle

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

By Natasha Khalid

Pricey leather chairs and elaborate curtain ensembles might look great in your child’s bedroom but guess what? A cute, wellplaced teddy bear or beautiful accent wall can yield the same results and that too, without draining your pockets. Nurseries and children’s rooms are at risk of redundancy as your child grows older. So why bother splurging unnecessarily when you can decorate on a budget.

It’s really no wonder then that simplicity has become the latest trend for children’s rooms, globally. In fact, according to Sabiha Rita Hassan, founder of Karachi-based furnishing studio Design 19, keeping it clean and classic is the only way for parents with financial constraints. “The world of interior decoration has gone back in time, promoting furniture that is elegant and simple. The concepts are now reminiscent of Beatrix Potter’s children’s books and work beautifully with a limited budget.”

The great thing about decorating a child’s room is that you have the opportunity to unleash your inner child and experiment with bright colours and patterns. It is believed by many that a splash of colour on the walls or even the draperies releases positive energy into the room, offering children a safe haven wherein they can cultivate their imaginations. Some parents like Sadaf and Gulraiz Qadir also customise the room according to their children’s preferences. “I think a personalised space of their own gives children room to grow,” says Sadaf, who sought her children’s opinions when re-decorating their rooms last year. “I wouldn’t want my room to be different from my personality so why would my children?” she adds.

Sabiha, however, feels it is best to seek professional help when it comes to nurseries. “The first thing to watch out for is the safety of your child and consulting an interior decorator can help with that,” she says. “For instance, the material used on the furniture and walls must be non-toxic. There should be no loose parts or sharp edges around, or any uncovered electrical outlets.

Functionality is key in selecting furniture items: you don’t want to end up with ample sitting space but no storage, for example.”

According to another interior specialist Joveria Rahim, an accent wall is the easiest way to revive a stale interior, regardless of what type of room it might be in. “These walls look best alongside the most celebrated part of the room, such as the child’s bed, bureau or playing area,” explains Joveria. “If you’re on a tight budget, you can simply paint the main wall with a colour which complements the furniture and hang your children’s artwork on it. A chalk board is another great idea if you are lacking items to adorn the wall with.” For those with two or more youngsters, Joveria prescribes a fun bunker bed to save space and add a dynamic to the room.

“I also prefer wooden or colourful vinyl flooring as it is cheap and easy to wipe off. The rest of the room can be accessorised with toys as they are the best narrative of a child’s personality.”

Of course, any decision or purchase you make must be based on a strong concept of your desired layout and lifestyle. Both Sabiha and Joveria propose rearranging furniture and adding small tweaks here and there to cut costs which can be incurred in a complete makeover.

Natasha Khalid is a doctor by profession. She likes to write about fashion, people and social affairs. She tweets @Natashakhalid90 Design by Hira Fareed

PHOTOS: DESIGN19 AND IDENTITY

Domestic goddess 7

THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JULY 26, 2015

By Huba Akbar

Beat the heat with this delicious treat!

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Lychees 12 — 15 Water 3 and 1/2 cups Lemon (large) 1 or (medium) 2 Sugar 4 tbsp Mint leaves or lemon wedges for garnish Ice cubes

Summer is the ideal opportunity for us to indulge in our favourite fruit juices without feeling guilty. Of course for most of us, watermelons, grapes and mangoes are staples for the season but there are many other fruits on offer as well. Lychee, for example, is one of the many gifts of the warm summer months.

Fortunately for those who enjoy its taste, lychee — which literally means ‘gift for life’ — truly lives up to its name. It is considered to be highly advantageous for skin, hair and overall health and offers many other benefits, apart from its cooling properties. For instance, lychees are rich in flavonoids which combat fatal diseases like cancer by reducing the proliferation of affected cells. Lychees also regulate blood pressure and prevent strokes and coronary heart diseases, owing to the polyphenols found within. In addition to this, they are rich in phosphorus, copper, manganese, zinc and magnesium which strengthen brittle bones and provide support to the skeletal system.

And there is still much more to reap from this delicious fruit! Did you know that lychees are goldmines of anti-oxidants, providing a variety of substances like Vitamin C, Oligonol and Vitamin B which fight infections and inflammation? Oligonol also cuts deep fat and spurs blood circulation, thereby improving stamina and weight-loss, facial lines and brown pigmentation. A regular intake of lychees will also help metabolise carbohydrates, proteins and fats, thanks to the high level of beta carotene which boosts the immune system and improves liver function. Keeping all of this in mind, who can possibly say no to this wondrous fruit!

SOURCE: STYLECRAZE.COM

PHOTO: HUBA AKBAR

• Prepare the base by grinding the lychees to a pulp. Strain the crushed bits to extract the juice.

• In a small saucepan, boil the water and melt the sugar in it.

Allow the mixture to cook for about five to 10 minutes before taking it off the stove and setting it aside.

• Strain the sugar and water mix and add the lychee juice to it.

• Add lemon juice to the mixture and stir thoroughly.

• Place the drink in the refrigerator for about an hour or so, until it becomes chilled.

• Garnish the glasses with mint leaves or lemon wedges and serve cold.

• Lychees 3 cans • Castor sugar 50g • Egg white 1

• Lime zest from 2 limes • Lime juice from 1 lime

1. Drain the syrup from two cans of lychees into a small pan. Add sugar and dissolve over gentle heat, boiling for a minute.

2. Blitz the drained lychees in a food processor until finely chopped. Pour in the lime juice and syrup with the blade still whirring. Don’t worry if the mix isn’t perfectly smooth.

Just tip into a litre container and freeze for at least six hours until it becomes solid.

3. Break the frozen mix and place it in the processor. Add egg white and blend until thick, pale and smooth.

4. Add zest from one lime and pour it into the container. Freeze again, ideally overnight.

Serve in scoops with remaining lychees scattered with a remaining zest.

SOURCE: BBCGOODFOOD.COM

Woman of the week 8

Shoot for an event.

With my best friend.

Actor/Model

Taking selfies du ring

uster s rose on the season’s blockb Last summer, as the curtain John n. ntio atte ch mu ed flick’ gain movies, one particular ‘chick the to red soa rs, Sta Our in lt Fau Green’s bespoke novel, The ved cinemas to watch their belo top, with fans thronging to Prior en. scre on love ters fall in Hazel Grace and Augustus Wa t of oun acc on n itio ogn rec ned to this, Green had already ear er oth e l, Vlogbrothers, and som his popular YouTube channe in lt Fau The ile wh ng adults. And prize-winning novels for you ns Tow er Pap in is it ide, ldw rts wor Our Stars may have won hea his s ishe ion of the ideas Green furn that one finds a true reflect fictional world with. into has recently been converted Released in 2009, the book gne evin Del a Car l ode erm sup g rrin a full-length feature film sta k. wee last was released just and rising actor Nat Wolff and e es on the idea of a manic pixi tak en Gre ns, Through Paper Tow of nt poi the from d rate nar ry is girl and decimates it. The sto sted Floridian teenager who is enli a n, bso Jaco ntin Que of view to n lma ege Spi h -girl Margo Rot by the beautiful pixie dream er e scheme. Neighbours and form eng rev ind irlw wh carry out a r ove rt apa and Margo have drifted childhood buddies, Quentin me rco ove to ugh for Quentin the years — just not apart eno us night falls on their adventuro e tim the By . her his feelings for e up wak to y onl , rgo Ma h wit love soiree, he falls even more in missing. the next morning and find her around Margo’s ers and me k boo The rest of the s acquaint themselves with disappearance, helping reader self. Following a series of him and Quentin’s family, friends much the besotted Quentin spends clues Margo leaves behind, rgo Ma l rea the to as ry ste the my of his senior year unravelling en’s Gre here that we experience and where she might be. It is is ter of Margo is created: She rac cha the brilliance in the way o wh girl e pixi ant ber ting and exu the archetype of an enchan

injects life into her brooding lover, charming him with her quirky characteristics and eccentricities.

But of course, the story is but a destruction of this trope.

As Quentin moves further in his journey to Margo, he begins to realise that the girl he has fallen in love with might never have existed. Everyone around him has their own opinion of Margo which is mostly limited to her appearance and elaborate pranks. No one really seems to know her!

Green can arguably be criticised for rehashing the now hackneyed storyline featured in most of his work.

Quentin and Margo are pretty much the same as Colin and Katherine from An Abundance of Katherines (2006) and Miles and Alaska from Looking for Alaska (2005). The male leads are always collected and thoughtful young men who find themselves caught up with unpredictable and unattainable young women. In each of his books, Green routinely builds up the hype around the beautiful dream girl and then breaks it down.

Fortunately, this does not detract from the fact that Green knows how to write well and tug at the heartstrings of his teenage readers. He understands his characters and audience well, offering dialogues and emotions the latter sympathise with. A point where Quentin is conversing with his parents on the dinner table or singing along with his friends on an ill-planned and last-minute road trip are moments we can all relate to.

And that, more than anything else, makes this book worth a read.

Anum Shaharyar is a freelance writer. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mass Communication.

a shoot.