JUST BE!
The day loomed endless ahead of me… no plans, no goals, nothing to do. A day I wanted just for myself – no phone calls, no messages, no news, no television… just me! A day filled with thoughts, a day filled with stillness, a day filled with gratitude for this beautiful gift of life, a day of contemplation, a day of silence and of voices, a day to dream, a day of just being!
the w ay
In the beginning I was a little restless… I am in some ways a driven person… I need to do things whether reading a book, writing notes, going to work…. I do enjoy the space that stillness offers me; every single day, I make the time to be with just myself, and really it is this place and moment in which I really am. But somewhere in the intricacies of life, work and relationships, I have noted that many of us inextricably attach our self worth to the amount of work we perceive we must do on a daily basis… at times, becoming our own worst taskmasters.
Five things I realigned myself to from my ‘ME DAY’ were: (1) Be uncluttered – whether it’s your physical space or your mind, make space for new journeys, new ideas, new thoughts, new friends, new experiences. Whenever it gets overwhelming, take a little time out to write your thoughts down on a piece of paper, it helps offer greater clarity. You don’t always have to answer the phone or catch your favourite TV show… break the habit every now and then. (2) Be refuelled – just like with the fuel you put into your car or motorcycle to keep going, so it is with your mind. Reading is a powerful learning tool. Meditation or exercise are two other things that allow you to free up so much energy within. Sometimes, doing absolutely nothing allows you to draw upon resources that will sustain you spiritually, physically, mentally and socially. (3) Be inspired – self development and continuous growth are very important aspects of living. The simplest thing to do is read a motivational quote. There’s always a choice in life to better your self, seize each opportunity to be inspired, stay inspired and to inspire others. (4) Be discovered – discover your strengths, desires, abilities, passions and dreams… these may change over time and that is perfectly alright… but don’t lose sight of what makes you who you really are. (5) BE – Close your eyes and immerse yourself in YOU… no voices, no goals, no pressures… just you! A walk in the nature, sleeping under an open sky, running against the wind, feeling the raindrops on your face… find your own rhythm and pace. Don’t talk, don’t try and make sense of it all, just feel, JUST BE! Until the next issue,
swadhwa@vow.com.np
i see it
editor’s pick
Life is too short to not live it fully
Charu Chadha
I was only the other day driving through the frantic traffic in Delhi… cars honking, drivers swearing, street vendors shouting, traffic lights, cell phones and loud voices, everybody in a mad rush to get somewhere… and just then, almost magically, the skies started pouring rain. Huge gusts of wind and sheets and sheets of rain… everything came to a stand still. People ran to find shelter under trees, cars were forced to slow down if not come to stand still… it was simply raw nature taking over… there was no rush any more. It was almost as though we were all just where we were all meant to be…. And soon the clouds broke and the sun filtered through again and we were enveloped once again in the Delhi traffic madness. In some ways, those few moments of stillness offered a huge refuge of quiet wisdom. It prompted me to just let go and be – even if it is for just one day! I have always believed that the greatest ideas are often germinated in the uncluttered mind… and an hour spent looking out of the window, or lying under the stars is the most precious gift you can give yourself.
The other day as I was walking in New Road… Corporate Associate Editor something I had not done in a very long time... I saw this little boy – about six or seven years old - mischievous, grubby, torn clothes and doing the most amazing cart wheels full of exhilaration and sheer energy. What was amazing were not the cartwheels but he did them without both legs – his legs were just amputated stumps below mid thigh, yet sheer joy coursed through his body as he enjoyed the freedom of the cartwheels. Something many of us do not even attempt however full bodied and healthy we may be. Just a few steps away was a man in his fifties selling toys… a face torn with grief and tiredness, he was weary and bitter… automatically winding the key to bring a toy into action. Trying hard to make a sale breathing life into an automated machine but having none in himself. The irony of the two lives hit my being… the duality of finding pain and joy… of making the most of what little life offers you, and the struggle of not wanting to fight your situation in the other…. One man’s solitude, another’s isolation. One man’s gift, another’s burden. One man’s sacrifice, another’s selfishness. Life can be tough, painful and overwhelming… it can be beautiful, funny and awesome too! What I understood that day was perhaps that through your worst moments – if you put your worries and troubles aside for just a few minutes and only focus on just the fact that you are alive and you can change everything… you will realise just how precious and splendid life really is! Life is too short to not live it fully.
AUGUST 2011 Volume 7 | Issue 11
beauty Beauty Tips 24 Lux Skin bleaching: pros and cons makeup tips 26 Lakme Your guide to skin oils and serums...
26
Beauty Q & A with Dolly Singh
28 60
Sunsilk hair expert Hair tips directly from the hair experts My Beautiful life Meera Jyoti tells us about her favourites
savor 45 Savor Celebrating the YOUNG! 54 Innerview A life in constant evolution... Prof Dr Neelam Adhikari
45 Celeb rating THE
Youth is the joy, the little bird that has broken out of the egg and is eagerly waiting to spread out its wings in the open sky of freedom and hope‌ - James Matthew Barrie
58
Woman to Watch A girl in bloom Kanchan Amatya
THE POWER TO CREATE CHANGE
AUGUST 2011
regulars
40
THE CROP LADY! career & finance & Lovely 38 Fair Career Guidance
child care your child is 30 Ifa bully
39 40
male menu YOUR GIRL'S 34 Iffriend hits on
Want to win at work? Be yourself! Career Q & A with Dr Niti Rana Woman at work The crop lady! Shila Thapa Swar
you...
health, fitness & nutrition Feature Bulletin 64 Health 68 Health The mystery behind Mental Health water retention
66 67
Exerfile Your way to flat abs... Fitness Q & A with Sandesh Palungwa Limbu
Q&A with Dr Sharad Man Tamrakar Medical Q & A with Dr Bharat Rawat Dr Neil Pande Dr Ruchi Saxena Dhakal
11
The way I see it
11
Editor’s Pick
17
Let’s Talk
18
My Cup of Tea Who is God? Is He a superpower, a total stranger, or a positive force within you?
32
Hold My Hand
36
Relationship When you are sorry and you know it!
62
Guest Column The power of gratitude
70
VOW Sex Rules The elusive orgasm (part II)
72
Animal Anecdotes A pet's heart failure IN NUTS AND SHELLS Pet Q&A with Dr Saroj Yadav
84
Star signs Starry compliment to win your man!
entertainment 22 I spy Quiz & Polls 74 VOW How old is your heart? 76 VOW Spices Picks 79 Flick Your guide to happening movies, music and books
80 82
Musical Conversation "The road ahead is difficult and I am not afraid!" Graham Roberts New Spark
VOW Cover Look
PUBLISHING COMMITTEE Managing Editor/CEO - Shalini Wadhwa Editor - N P Shrestha Corporate Associate Editor - Charu Chadha Photo Editor - Sanchit Lamichhane
EDITORIAL Assistant Editor - Poonam Maharjan Reporters - Evelyn Moktan, Samridhi Rana, Pramila Rai Interns - Malvika Biswas, Ojashwi Pathak
ART & DESIGN Designers Bindu Kumar Tandukar, Anup Man Shrestha A young achiever in every sense, turn to page 46 to know more about Kanchan Amatya. Photographer: Rajiv Shrestha Makeup & Hair: Ritu Pradhan, Tel: 9849274583 Wardrobe: Blueberry, Durbar Marg, Tel: 4223226 Accessories: Bentley, Durbar Marg, Tel: 4228338 Cover design: Bindu Kumar Tandukar
All editorial enquiries should be sent to Charu Chadha at
ART & DESIGN SUPPORT Senior Designer - Bikram Chandra Majumdar Designers - Ajit Sharma, Sudin K Shrestha
PHOTOGRAPHY Photographers - Nibendra Pradhananga Sanu Raja Maharjan, Shankar Bir Byanjankar
GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: editorial@vow.com.np All advertising enquiries should be sent to Charu Chadha at GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 4780450, Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: marketing@vow.com.np Pokhara Office : Pokhara, Naya Bazar Tel: 061-538913, Mobile: 9856026572 VOW
MARKETING Assistant Manager - Budhi Katel Senior Executive - Binod Thapa Executive - Abhishek Bhakta Shrestha Marketing Assistant - Insan Dheke
is published monthly from Kathmandu, Nepal by Speciality Media Pvt.
Ltd., GPO Box: 2294, New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal. Tel: 4780450, Fax: (977-1) 4782100, Email: vow@vow.com.np The contents of this publication may not be published in any form whatsoever, without the prior written consent of the publishers.
SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION Manager - Raju Singh Bajiko Executives - Radhya Shyam Gambanjar, Rakesh Prajapati
All materials©vow.
SUPPORT TEAM A note to readers The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of VOW. Authors
may have consulting or other business relationships with the
companies they discuss. While every precaution is taken, no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. All opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect on the publisher. The contents may not be reproduced in any form without the prior consent of the publisher. All rights reserved. Publisher – Speciality Media Pvt Ltd CDO Regd. No 33/061/62 Printed by Jagadamba Press Pvt Ltd Tel : 5250017, 5250027(Fax) Pre-press (CtVP) by BiG CtP House Pvt Ltd Tel : 4036219 Distributor: Kasthamandap Distributor
Chief Accountant - Birendra Dhoj Shrestha Executive-Accounts - Jaya Prakash Shrestha Editorial Secretary - Abish Bhattarai Secretary Administration - Alisha Shakya
Thanks for saving my marriage, Dr Poonam...
Dear Dr Poonam, While flipping through the July edition of VOW at the news stand, your column Sex Rules caught my eye. Then I bought the magazine and went home to read it all. On reaching home, I went straight to the restroom to see if the question I had sent regarding my problem and dilemma had been answered... I was so happy to discover that you had actually chosen to answer my query! I am sure your answer has benefitted lots of men with a similar problem, with a similar dilemma regarding sex. I am really grateful to you for saving our 18-year-old married life—when I sent you my question, I didn’t have the least expectation that it would interest you a bit. You don’t know how big a favour you’ve done to me and my wife! I now understand the real meaning of sex and adventures in it that men often dream about. Trust me, I haven’t strayed for the sake of sex, and will never ever do. I assure you that I won’t break my wife's trust in me... I love her so much. I haven't told my wife that my query was responded by you with so much minute details, but anyway, telling her about this column wouldn't do much, as she doesn’t understand English. So I am happy and equally sad at the same time. Thank you once again and wishing you life's best. – Shyam
VOW, you’ve become my best friend!
It's been about two-three months I have been stuck in my home doing nothing—no studies, no work, no nothing! And VOW has been my best friend all this while, and will always be one in the coming days too. When I get frustrated, VOW makes me happy; when I feel like ugly, VOW makes me feel beautiful; when I am confused, VOW shows me the way... I can really feel the change in me ever since I started reading VOW... it indeed has the power to create change, and I am loving this change in me. A few days back, I was really getting frustrated, realising that I have taken so many wrong turns on the road of my life, but thank you Shalini for those revitalising words in The Way I See it column of July edition. I am telling you all these because I love you VOW, my friend! – Parita Maharjan
Life is beautiful with you, VOW!
Thank you isn't really enough for you guys—Shalini, Charu and all those who have directly or indirectly supported this magazine. Your motivating articles, solutions for all the All letters on this page recieve a gift hamper from Foot Fetish, foot and body treatment. Tel : 4700701
seemingly impossible-to-deal-with problems, healing words and careful examination of so many emotional situations are something I always find deeply moving. For sure VOW has made me bold and beautiful and I turn to VOW to keep myself updated and look for the source of inspiration time and again. Life is really beautiful with you VOW. Wish you all the best! – Poonam Basnet, Medicare National Hospital
Inspiring twin dreamers...
I was so happy to read about the amazing twin dreamers in the July edition of VOW. It was so inspiring... more so because some of them are like really young, and still have achieved so much in life. Sometimes I tend to think that I can’t do much despite the talent in me because of the lack of time and due to my studies, but now, after having read their stories, I have the feeling that sky is the limit if I really am passionate about chasing my dreams. Thank you so much VOW team for bringing their stories forth. Although their profiles were really short, they spoke volumes about the kind of achievers they are. – Suchitra Shahi
The best letter on this page has won a Meal Voucher for two (excluding beverages) at Krishnarpan, a speciality Nepali restaurant at Hotel Dwarika’s.
My Cup of
TEA
Come host our next session of
My Cup of Tea Tell us what you want to talk about & who you’d like to invite.
Let’s discuss issues, exchange notes or
simply gossip send us an e-mail at editorial@vow.com.np
Please collect your gift from the VOW office, New Baneshwor Tel: 4780394 subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 17
Date: 19 July PARTICIPANTS Pratik Joshi, software engineer, D2 Hawkeye Services Sharmila Mainali, president, Self Help; vice president, Dante Alighieri Pravina Thapa, sub editor and anchor, English News, Kantipur Television Sarala Shrestha, administration assistant, HAMS Nursing College
©VOW photofile/Sanchit Lamichhane
Rabindra Shahi, executive director, BTL Media
Who is
God?
Is He a superpower, a total stranger, or a positive force within you? Many of us believe in the religious existence of God – the Almighty, the Supreme Power. While many more believe that He does not exist. Either ways, it is a choice in one’s perception, belief and opinion. Voltaire, the witty philosopher, writer and historian once quoted, “If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent Him.” So where do we find Him or why do many of us seek Him? Is He the Almighty in the form of various religious idols and pictures amongst other forms? Is He a powerful force in the universe that you have a conversation with, vent your feelings out, saying, “I hope this wish of mine gets fulfilled”? Or is God a well-wisher, a dream weaver, who helps you out when you are in dire need of a miracle… say a friend or a total stranger who buys you a ticket for a concert or a match you have been dying to be a part of. Does that total stranger or a friend mean God to you at that moment? Or does this God even play any role in our lives? In this session of My Cup of Tea, whatever opinions we gathered, God bound each participant in a way that He gives meaning to their lives. He represents everything that is positive and good, in the form of an act, a force or religious teachings. To discuss who He is, in this time when deadly earthquakes and unpredictable manmade disasters rip the lives of many, when spirituality has become a luxury, when many mortals are given the status of living Gods, we invited five participants to hear what their personal opinions are, and who God is, for each one of them.
18 | VOW | august 2011
Pravina Thapa God for me is a power, a positive force that drives me to be a good moral being and be the best that I can be as a human. I do not believe that God exists in the form of a face, a figure, or an idol per se, because I do not believe that we need to put a face to something. I guess we are scared of the unseen power and that’s why we have given God a humanly figure. Hence a God with two eyes, two ears… but has anyone seen God? If there is really a super power that decides our destiny and creates everything for us then what is the point of us having our minds and brains? If I ever meet God, the Almighty, then it will definitely be a life altering situation. I will be very happy in a way that an unanswered question has finally been answered. If God exists, then He exists, you know. If the existence of God, the Almighty is scientifically proven, I will believe it. Having said that, for me and for most of us, God is a positive force, an embodiment of everything good; the giving, the loving, the caring, the charismatic, the one with the power to change anything. And that is what God means to me. He could be somewhere within us or outside, and for me, He lies within me. I do not believe that there is one face to God but many forms to Him. The driving force that exists within me, which I call God, is a positive one, one that pushes me to do good to others, one that reminds me that what I do is what I will get in return. These positive acts have played a major role along the course of my life.
Sharmila Mainali God is pure love. He is the creator and the lawmaker of the universe. I have always believed in Him. I guess my mother’s firm religious beliefs influenced me as a child. We find God when we find satisfaction in our lives and the right way to be satisfied is to stop expecting. When we realise that we do not really need everything then we find peace in our heart and mind and hence, we find God. We cannot see God but I have deep faith that He is omnipresent. In order to feel closer to God, we try to reach Him through idols and pictures but personally I do not believe in idol worship. I pray and meditate and after many long years I have come to realise that God is always with you or within you. You do not necessarily have to go and look for a temple or find an illustration of God to feel close to Him, or to have a conversation with him. I also believe that what we reap is what we sow. Good things beget good things and vice versa and for Him everyone is equal. Talking from my own experience, 18 years back, I was travelling alone through the dense forest of Parsa at around 10 at night to get to my relative’s place. Because it was dark and it would take me around 20 minutes to reach my relative’s home, I decided to ask help with someone from a group of men who were sitting around a fire nearby. First I secured all my valuable possessions, then went up to them and told them that I was ready to pay any amount if anyone could help me reach across the forest to my relative’s house. After paying him 15 rupees, one of them agreed to accompany me. We walked the entire way in silence. When we reached, my cousin hurried down the stairs and exclaimed, “How did you manage to come with a dacoit?” Stunned, I told her not to panic about anything because he was the one who helped me reach to her safely, and asked her if she could feed him something for the favour. What I am trying to say is, there’s a God in everybody, in the form of a person’s goodness irrespective what background the person comes from… all we need to do is trust that He exists.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 19
Rabindra Shahi Growing up in a Hindu religious family influenced me in inculcating religious views and beliefs, right from my childhood. It eventually had me believe in the existence of God, and the fact that He created everything in the universe. But then, I also believe that if He created the good then He created the bad too. Of course there are two groups of people – those who believe that God exists and the other who believe He doesn’t. What I feel is that the existence of God depends largely on whether we trust He does. Because, the truth is, God is an intangible being who is present everywhere, all the time, in our sickness and in health. The problem is, most people remember God only in times of troubles and forget about Him completely when they are happy. But I make it a point to offer Him my gratitude when good things happen to me or my loved ones even as I pray to Him to make things straight when they aren’t. What I am trying to say is that God is a representation of anything and everything that’s good. So I consider everything or everyone good as God. For me, he doesn’t even exist in a specific form, shape, size or name. I guess one reason why we refer to God in a human form is because after all the scientific inventions and discoveries, people tend to think that humans with goodness are Gods. For me, God could be anything – a person who helps me in times of dire need, a piece of paper where I can note down something really important… anything. Everything that exists – the trees, the sun, the moon, monkey, snake, human beings, air, water… they are all manifestations of God. I guess it is very easy to be consumed by the situation and materialistic rewards, but He is the only real giver.
Sarala Shrestha There is only one God. We just have different ways of worshipping Him. His form of existence differs from place to place and from one religion to another. My mother has always been very religious and it is because of her that I have my faith and belief in God today as I was never really a great believer earlier. I actually started believing in God sincerely after a major incident, when our house caught fire. A few days after the incident occurred, my mother thought that the cause of the accident was somehow related to my father accidentally dropping and then losing the stone-idol of our ancestral God (Kul Devta). I did not really believe in what my mother said at that moment, to tell you the truth. She wanted to go look for it and I accompanied her anyway. We went searching for the idol and I thought it was impossible to find it amongst the debris, buried deep down somewhere. I tried searching but did not find it there but what amazed me was that my mother found it without any effort really. And that somehow startled me and intrigued me to believe in the existence of God and His powers. But to witness that miracle, you need to have faith in Him. For me, He rules the world and decides what each one of us deserves. If we harm others, that is what will happen to us in return. Similarly, when we are good to others, goodness is what we will get in return. And in that way, God plays a very important role in my life. Praying is important to me each day, to pay respect to God as a means of religious belief. He is omnipresent and watches over us at every step. And that makes me pray and I ensure that my children pray too.
20 | VOW | august 2011
Pratik Joshi
Many of us ask ourselves who God really is, and I am one of those people. I wouldn’t call myself an atheist though. I acknowledge the existence of the Deity but personally God exists in the form of an energy surrounding me. I do believe in the existence of positive and negative energies, but defining God is complex because defining someone or something that I have not seen is always difficult. If I still had to define God, I would simply say He is someone who just looks like us but has all the virtues, because that is what I have grown up knowing how God looks like and what He embodies. So He’s basically a positive energy that comprises of everything good, and not evil. God also means a positive act to me, or that state of total bliss and inner peace. So I believe in doing good, and try not to harm anyone in every possible way. Of course we are bound to make mistakes as humans – intentionally or otherwise, and when I make my share of mistakes, I try to mend it in whatever way I can. If I hurt someone, I apologise just to make sure I have my peace. If I see a friend sad, I try and make him/her happy just to feel good you know. I don’t know about God for sure, but I do want positive energy to be the dominating factor in my life. Therefore, I believe you have to believe in your basic goodness to be able to see or feel what God is. Because even as I am unsure of how the ‘Godly’ miracles happen, I strongly believe that God helps those who help themselves.
But of course, my mother persuades me to visit temples and pray everyday so that He would listen to me and maybe fulfil my wishes, but I don’t really listen to her most of the times. I feel that by the time I wake up, God should be pretty exhausted with all the prayers offered to Him by millions of people already. However, that doesn’t mean I do not pray at all… I do that once in a while for the peace of my mother, if not for myself. And, once when my exam paper went real bad, I proposed to offer God 12 laddoos if he made me pass… and well, I passed! Now whether I’d done well enough to pass or God succumbed to my ‘bribe’ is a different story altogether, but I did offer him the promised treat. Text» Samridhi Rana, Pramila Rai and Malvika Biswas Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 21
I spy yet another ribbon cut
salam namaste
Krishna Bahadur Mahara
PM Jhalanath Khanal
k garne
Narayan Khadka
trance
Rakesh Sood Agni Sapkota
if only garlands were forever
pfffrrrrrt
sweet taste of victory
ŠVOW photofile/CC/SL/NP/SRM/SB
it's black or white
Graham Roberts
Nima Rumba
22 | VOW | august 2011
hips dont lie
its the only way out man hunt 20....
Dr Ashok Banskota
water water everywhere
Tulsi Ghimire
happy days are here again Suraj Vaidya
Kunda Dixit
enni, meeni, mini, mow....
time and tide come rain or shine...
Prakash Man Singh, Yubraj Lama
Deep Shrestha
pik....opps peekaboo
small is big
Skin bleaching
pros and cons Bleaching body and facial hair has been a trend for quite a time now. Youngsters as well as adults bleach to get that ‘hairfree’ glow to their skin. However, bleaching must not be mistaken with removing hair. It just makes the hair less noticeable because it lightens the colour of the hair to a light shade of blonde, and the result lasts anywhere from a couple of days to a week. So, if you are among those who are considering bleaching an option, there are a few things you must know:
Why bleach?
It is a fast and easy option for those who want to conceal their facial and/or body hair without actually removing them. Bleaching cream can be found at any drug store at a fairly cheap price, and you can bleach easily at home. It’s not painful either, as you aren’t removing any hair follicle. Skin bleaching can be of great help to conceal the prominence of hyper pigmentation, uneven pigmentation, freckles and dark spots.
What are the disadvantages of bleaching?
Bleaching facial and body hair doesn’t give you a smooth and hairless surface. Even though the colour of unwanted hair becomes lighter and less prominent after bleaching, it still may be noticeable, especially if you are standing in the sun or a bright room. Not all hair or skin types can benefit from bleaching. Don’t count on bleaching to disguise long or thick hair-only finer ones, like on the face or arms. Bleached hair on dark or tanned skin can still stand out because of the colour contrast (light hair against dark skin). The results aren’t very long lasting. The hair above the surface is the only part of the hair follicle that has been lightened. As the hair grows, you will see the darker, natural colour. Many products use active ingredients like hydroquinone and mercuric chloride, which have been found potentially harmful, and their use is restricted in cosmetic products in many countries. These products pose many health risks such as cancer. Skin bleaching creams can cause acne. After repetitive use, the skin bleaching cream makes the skin very dark and progresses into a condition when the pigment falls into the skin’s lower level. It is very difficult to resume your natural skin colour once this occurs.
Q&A BEAUTY
I have to travel a lot throughout the day because of my work. As I heard that scrubs are good for cleaning the dirt accumulated on the skin, I started using it but soon it left my pores open and now my skin looks dotted and unattractive. So what should I do now? Which product or home remedy would you suggest to clean the dirt on my skin without torturing my skin further? – Suruchi Upadhyay Dear Suruchi, Regular face exfoliation is the best way to keep your skin clear and healthy. Never over-exfoliate… it can seriously damage your skin. Faces should be gently exfoliated once or twice a week all year around, but to really get your skin glowing, this can be ramped up. Exfoliators with very fine particles are the best ones as they will help minimise the pores. Also having a regular facial at least once in four weeks in a certified skin treatment salon will always help since the whole procedure will be done professionally. You can also make your own exfoliator at home by combining oatmeal and water to make a paste. A mixture of sugar and olive oil also makes a great exfoliator. Try combining sugar with honey or baby oil too. While the honey softens the skin, the baby oil gets deep down your skin to moisturise it. If these don’t help, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Your guide to
skin oils and serums...
Skin oils and serums are the talk of the town lately. Sure everyone wants to look beautiful and try hands at everything imaginable to find that fountain of glow, but it’s always safe to know about what you’ve been using or want to use on your skin. Read on to learn more about oils and serums to suit all skin types… What are skin oils?
Skin oils, besides deeply moisturising your skin and helping you remove heavy makeup from your skin, have also been proven to be effective in treating a wide range of skin ailments like acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis and scabies. They help alleviate pain associated with cuts, burns and other skin irritations or diseases too. DoLLY SiNGh, proprietor of Dolly’s Exquisite Creations, will answer all your beauty and makeup queries. Email your questions to editorial@vow.com.np Contact her at 4445080.
Why use skin oil to remove makeup?
Sticky and heavy makeup does not respond or get easily removed by just water. Cleaning of the skin is an important task; makeup removed improperly harms the skin and causes rashes, irritation, breakouts, etc. Also while doing makeup, if anything gets grubby, that particular part of the face can be touched up or concealed with the help of skin oils and cotton.
How often should you apply oil on your skin?
First and foremost, skin oils should be applied in the evening, prior to bed. There should be no need for deep cleansing in the morning if you’re
26 | VOW | august 2011
waking up with skin cleansed the night before. In the morning, a quick wipe with a warm washcloth should suffice.
How to use skin oils?
Apply a small amount of the oil over your entire face and neck and rub the oil very gently to spread it evenly. Leave the oil on your skin for approximately 10-15 minutes and then use a tissue to remove the excess. It's better to apply oil in the evening if the product is too oily and you don’t feel comfortable with it. You can also use the oil to massage your skin in order to improve the blood circulation and to “tone” your skin.
Which skin oils should you buy?
Stick with the oil that compliments your skin type: • Lavender oil works best for oily skin prone to acne and frequent breakouts, skin inflammation and sun burns. • Almond oil is appropriate for every skin type. It works well for dry, sensitive and mature skin. • Grape oil helps shrink large pores and is recommended for those who have combination skin. • Jojoba oil is suitable for every skin type. It nourishes and protects skin from the external aggression and also softens, moisturises and nourishes the skin. • Olive oil works great for dry, sensitive and mature skin preventing wrinkle and fine lines appearance.
Dig up the beauty serum Serums are concentrated formulas that hydrate the skin and deliver vital nutrients and vitamins to help rejuvenate and heal. They are great if you want intense hydration combined with visible luminosity. Some have soothing ingredients specific for reducing the appearance of redness and discoloration. They can also be formulated for brightening or combating sun damage. How to use beauty serums?
Take a drop of serum on your fingertips and massage it gently onto your freshly cleansed skin in the morning and at night, then follow with your usual moisturiser. You don’t need to use more than a drop or two to cover your whole face and neck.
How to choose the best face serum?
Choose face serums keeping in mind your skin type-whether it is oily, dry, combination or sensitive. Then, determine what issues you are trying to prevent or correct, and find products that contain ingredients to combat these issues, such as antioxidants to prevent aging, retinol to reverse aging, or salicylic acid to treat acne.
Benefits of face serums
Using a face serum is a means of combating various skin care problems deep below the surface of the skin. Each face serum may be aimed at solving a specific skin care complaint, so the benefits of using one can vary. The most common benefits include hydration, increased nourishment, brightening of the skin, and acne prevention.
Different types of serums • Skin Brightening Serum • Anti-wrinkle Serum • Beauty Serum
• Vitamin C Serum • Moisturiser Serum • Anti-aging Serum subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 27
Hair tips directly from
the hair experts
Dandruffs irritating you like never before? Worried about the hazards of the drizzles on your hair? Confused whether to pick henna or hair colours to give your hair a new look? Or did you just straighten your hair and are worried about it getting dry? Well, panic not. We had some hair experts from the K-town take care of your worries! Read on…
RAJESH GHIMIRE hair stylist and makeup artist, Arden-The Beauty Point and Academy
Prevent your hair from dryness after having it permanently straightened. The hair doesn’t usually get dry simply by straightening it. It might be the mistake of your hair expert if it does. Therefore, talk to your hair expert beforehand and consider the following before straightening: • The quality of lotion • The timing • The temperature of the iron • Type of hair If the hair gets dry even after considering these points, here are a few tips: • Don’t use herbal products such as henna, ritha, amla and sikakai on chemically treated hair. • Protect your hair from the sun. You can apply hair sunscreen available in the market. • Wash your hair with lukewarm water and then finish with a rich protein treatment. • Don’t dry your hair directly in the sun because it worsens your hair’s dryness. These will help you recover your hair’s natural oil, but the most important thing is you should always go to a trusted parlour for any kind of hair treatment and styling. If you have already straightened your hair earlier and want to do it again, take a gap of at least a year.
SUMAN SHRESTHA proprietor, Keshav & Suman Beauty Salon
Get rid of dandruffs.
The main reason why people get dandruff is because they either have dry or oily skin pores. Another reason is chlorinated water. Many promising shampoos and hair products have failed to remove dandruffs but there are a few easy steps you can rely on: • Apply raw aloe vera on your scalp before washing your hair. • Or, oil massage your hair with 1:5 ratios of castor oil and normal hair oil prior to shampooing. These steps will definitely show positive results.
KAMALA SHRESTHA proprietor, Siam Beauty Salon and Barber Shop
Protect your hair in monsoon.
During monsoon, the pipeline water is treated by chlorine which makes the hair very dry. So it is important to use a good conditioner after every hair wash. • Also, if getting wet in the rain has damaged your hair, making it dry and prone to dandruff, go for a hot oil treatment or do it yourself at home at least an hour prior to shampooing. • Applying a hair pack made from the mixture of yogurt and fenugreek onto your scalp for two hours can also bring back that bounce in your monsoon-damaged hair. SINDHU KARMACHARYA hair designer and beauty therapist, Faces Hair & Beauty Clinic
Henna or colouring? What’s better? It is definitely colouring. There are many good colouring brands like L’Oréal and Wella. These contain fewer chemicals than henna. It might come shocking to many but the henna that we get in many retail shops here contains mineral salt that damages the hair and makes it dry. Henna can be used if and only they do not contain mineral salts. Usually Egyptian henna is healthier and good for hair as they do not contain mineral salts. Hence, before buying henna one must check the ingredients and avoid if mineral salts is one of the key ingredients.
child care
If your child is a bully You may have heard many a times about a child being bullied and maybe seen it happening too. It might come as quite a shock to a parent to find out that their child is a bully. But the most important thing to remember is that bullying harms both the bully and the victim. Usually, kids who have been bullied in the past by their parents, peers or siblings make bullies in the future. Recognition of the problem is the first step towards solving it. VOW shares some more points with you on how you can teach your child to stop bullying and be a happier, healthier kid. Here is how: Examine your parenting style
Parenting style does count a lot in helping a child adjust to the norms and values of society. If one is an authoritative parent, s/ he might be teaching the child to be tyrants in order to force others to do what they want. So recognise the parenting approach and seek for some positive changes.
Increasing friendship skills
A child who bullies needs help developing healthy social skills. Parents should teach children to treat others the way they want to be treated, to be supportive of their friends in a positive way, to be truthful, to apologise when necessary, to accept their friends the way they are, to keep their promises and to be grateful to their friends. This way they will be liked by their friends and this might help them avoid bullying activities. 30 | VOW | august 2011
Redirecting energy
Parents should look for opportunities to bring out the best in their child through volunteering (to practice compassion) or taking karate (to learn self-control). Group activities which encourage team effort, working together, and cooperation over individual achievement can help bullies develop relationship skills.
Keeping an eye on your children
Make sure that your child does not spend time watching violent movies or TV shows. Therefore, it is a parent’s duty to make sure that the child is doing the right thing at the right time.
Seek counselling
Has your child witnessed any violent situation in the past? If so, this could be a probable reason for your child to become a bully. Seeking out a professional counsellor as soon as possible so that the children can learn to express anger without physical violence can solve this.
Do not be harsh on your child if you come to know that s/he is a bully. Often a child who is a bully is a child with low self-esteem and self-confidence. If that is the case, being harsh might cause more problems. Help your child develop social skills by getting him or her involved in youth groups in the community or in sporting activities. Try to nurture your child’s talents and dreams so that s/he does not feel the need to rebel through bullying, fighting or making fun of others.
hold my hand She never even told me why she was leaving me… I am hurt by her betrayal. I am a 25-year-old man and was in a relationship with my girl friend for more than three years. My parents and family are also very fond of her. We had decided to get married after I got financially more secure with a better job. She is my college mate as well. However, six months ago, she left me. She gave me no reason, no replies to my endless questions, nothing. I am a broken person today. It hurts like hell to even think of her. My parents have guessed that something is wrong, but I haven’t told them yet. I still hope that she will come back to me one day. She doesn’t take my calls or replies to my emails. I have asked her to meet me just once through a mutual friend and she disagreed. What could have happened? From what I know she is not even seeing anybody else… what do I do? I don’t know her family at all. They live in Jhapa, and in all these years she never went to see them. She lives with her cousin here in Kathmandu. I tried talking to her cousin and she too ignored me and threatened that I should not call and bother them. I am really hurt. I often think of ending my life. What can I do? Please help me. - Name withheld Sometimes in life things can take a very different turn… carefully laid plans go haywire, people we love and know become strangers… but the thing to remember in all the pain is to accept what has happened and believe that better things are to come. From what you have written, it is difficult to understand your girl friend’s behaviour or determine the cause of her leaving. However, she made a choice… and it is best that instead of dwelling on the why and what if, you respect her decision and move on. It has definitely not been fair on you but maybe in a strange way it is what is best for you. You love her… and what does one want for the person one loves – happiness, right! Just let her go with peace in your heart… wish him well and learn to hold on to memories of only the good. You must let your parents know. They love 32 | VOW | august 2011
Shalini Wadhwa
you and are concerned for you… it is best that they know the truth. The rest of the people don’t really matter. You don’t have to give explanations for your life to anyone unless you wish to. It hurts… but remember it will heal too, with time. Take care and find meaning in the gift and purpose of your life.
My father abuses us… I hate him
I am a 17 year old girl from a wellto-do family. I live with my parents and a younger brother and sister. I am in grade 11, but do not enjoy school at all. I am sad and angry all the time. My father owns a business and most days he is fi ne, but during weekends, he drinks a lot and comes home and hurts us. He fights with my mother, creates a lot of noise and breaks things, he beats my mother and pulls her hair even as he verbally abuses her with horrible words. My younger brother and sister are only 11 and nine years old. He wakes them up and shouts at them. When I interfere, he hits me as well. This has been going on for more than two years. My mother is not educated beyond class 10. She comes from a poor family and has no one to turn to for support from her side of the family. Her only brother works abroad. Our neighbours look at us with pity and it is very embarrassing and humiliating to even talk to them any more. My father pretends like nothing has happened the next morning and we are so scared of him that we do not say anything at all. I am tired of the way things are at home and very worried for my mother who has become very weak. She looks tired and unhealthy these days and is not even interested in what we are telling her. I hate my father. I feel so helpless. What can
Charu Chadha
we do? Please help me and please, please do not disclose my name or email address. Thank you. – Name withheld We are very sorry and it must be very difficult for you and your family at this time. It looks like your father suffers from severe alcohol issues which he refuses to acknowledge. The one person who really needs to take a stand against this abuse is your mother. You must support her and help her become strong. Going through repeated abuse over time is not good for any of you. Aren’t there any relatives of your dad or his friends that you could seek help from? Your dad too needs help – professional help if possible. What he is doing is not only incorrect, but he is destroying his family and creating long term hurt. If necessary, you must seek legal help for your problems. Please consider calling FWLD at 4242683. To be guided further. Alcohol driven abuse can cause not just emotional trauma, but can be life threatening also. Your physical wellbeing needs to be protected. Your dad appears normal the next morning because he does not want to face the truth and has gone beyond the point of shame and regret… he knows he can get away with anything. It’s difficult that you have to face so much at such a young age, but you need to be strong and help your family come through this as best as possible. Try not to compromise on your studies; that is one anchor that you will require all of your life to create a good career for yourself, to become financially independent and to eventually live the life of your dreams. Have faith in your abilities… the human mind, body and spirit is much, much stronger than we usually give it credit for. You will come through alright. Take care. Don’t forget to enlist the help of a relative or family friend who can guide you further. Send your questions to editorial@vow.com.np
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 33
male menu
If YOUR GIRL'S friend
hits on you... Three is a crowd! We have known this for a long time especially when it comes to romantic relationships. It is not really difficult to wave off flirtations or unwanted advances from people who don’t really matter. But, it is a different story when the person fixing eyes at you and laughing at your every silly joke is your partner’s friend. You need tact to handle the situation. We asked a few men to tell us how exactly they would deal it if their partner’s friend hit on them. Read on…
Pritam Purkayastha
Manager-Trade Marketing, United Spirits, United Beverages Group My reaction would really depend on the situation. So here are three things I would do: 1) First, I would make it obvious to her that I am not interested. Then I would avoid her. If she keeps persisting, I would most definitely inform my girlfriend. I would not want her to find out later and think that maybe I was reciprocating too. 2) When all of us are together I would say something to my girlfriend’s friend like, “Why don’t we find a man for you so that you can enjoy a relationship like ours?” This, I hope, will make it apparent to both the girls that I am a one-woman-man. 3) I will treat her appropriately. I will be polite but I won’t say anything that could be taken as flirting. And I would never meet her without my girlfriend present as well. If she’s a good friend, she’ll leave us alone.
Roshan Adiga
General Manager, KFC-Nepal If my wife’s friend hits on me, my spontaneous reaction would be to take it as a joke and I would probably laugh it off. I would certainly thank her for making a pass at me, because I do not think there are any males who do not get flattered by the advances of the opposite sex. BUT ultimately I will send her a clear message that I am not ‘available’ as I’m happily married, but will extend my hand of friendship. I will tell her “Hey since you are a friend of my wife why don’t we stick to being good friends and not more than that?” 34 | VOW | august 2011
Manish Jha
Director of Marketing & Relations, LEAD International Everyone enjoys the attention they get from the opposite sex. Life becomes more interesting. But when you are in a relationship you cannot afford to enjoy such attentions at the cost of your love. So if I find that my partner’s friend is flirting with me I will try to understand whether she is just being friendly or if she has a passionate interest in me. If she is just being friendly and comfortable I will be a good friend as well. However, I will first make sure that my partner is comfortable with our friendship. But if I realise that the friend has more than a friendly interest in me then I will ask her to act within the parameter of our relationship. If she has any appreciation of her friendship with my partner then she will behave. In case things become serious and out of my control then I will ask my partner to handle the situation.
Rishi Saraf Interior Designer
If such a situation arises then I would perhaps flirt back in order not to be rude. However, if things start getting serious or uncomfortable then I would immediately explain to her that I am happily married to her friend. I would make it clear that I am not interested in her and if she continues flirting it will only make things extremely uncomfortable between us. She should be able to understand that her actions could forever ruin her friendship with my wife. Hopefully better sense will prevail and she will back off.
Prashant Singh
Founder and CEO, Himalayan Climate Initiative I will be polite but firm with her while explaining that I am a one-woman-man. I will not lose my patience or be angry. I will cordially tell her that since there are so many nice guys around she should try her luck with them instead. That should make things clear to her.
Let’s get a peek into what other guys had to say…
Text» Pramila Rai Photos» Nibendra Pradhananga
•
"I would flirt back because flirting is healthy." Student, 26
•
"She will get a slap from me. How could she even think about it?" Photographer, 28
•
"I will totally avoid her." Student, 27
•
"I will ask my wife to get rid of a friend like her. If she were a real friend, she wouldn't act so cheap!" Pharmacist, 35
•
"I would just be polite, but at the same time, make it clear to her through words and gestures that my girlfriend is the only girl I am attracted to. I would also let my girlfriend know of her friend's hideous act so that my relationship with her remains strong." Student, 21
relationship
When
you are
sorry s o rry and you know it! We are all bound to make mistakes, to stumble and grumble, have differences of opinion and then fret over it. Very often, relationships are complicated—be it a parentchild relationship, a romantic one or your relationship with a friend, and conflict is inevitable: sometimes there are misunderstandings over petty things and then there are big problems that plague us. Yes, we feel guilty… and we are sorry… but how often do we say it! But, being sorry and saying sorry are two different things. Sometimes, we tend to apologise without really meaning it just to bring an end to a heated discussion, and sometimes we find ourselves feeling really sorry but not able to say the word. Anger, ego, embarrassment or adamantly believing we are right might stop us from expressing regret… but we should also keep in mind that if a simple word can mend our relationship, it could be to our own benefit to say sorry and make things right again. Below are a few tips on how you can let the other person know you are sorry, and that you really care… 36 | VOW | august 2011
How do you say it?
An apology is the manifestation of your feeling of guilt or sadness over what has transpired between you and the other person. Put aside any hesitation and be bold. Remember, a few words will take your relationship a long way.
Reflect
Be grateful
Understand what has been said and what part you played in making things awkward. Once you realise your mistake it is easier to get your apology in place.
It is wise for you to understand and be grateful that your apology has been accepted—but never take it for granted. And make sure you don’t repeat the mistake.
Brevity is the key
For those of you who are bad at saying things, here are a few alternatives:
Keep it brief. It is uncomfortable for everyone, and it is easier to give and receive a short apology.
Avoid downplaying your part
If you downplay your part in the misunderstanding or argument then there is a chance that it could annoy the person.
Be quick
Do not leave your apology too long in due. If and when you finally get to saying sorry, it might just not matter to either of you anymore. And the wound could have grown larger resulting in making amends more difficult.
Be genuine
Most people find out when an apology is fake so make a sincere apology and keep in mind how you frame your words. Do mean it. Match your actions with your words.
Say it with flowers
They are a good way of showing how sorry you are. People will be more likely to feel at ease with it than a long note and a stammered ‘so-r-ry’. But of course, a short note carrying your apology should accompany those flowers. You could also substitute flowers with chocolates, pastries, a bottle of wine, or a cute soft toy— depending on who you are apologising to.
Write a letter
If you are someone who is not comfortable with a verbal explanation, a letter is a good start. A brief letter stating your apology and asking for forgiveness should be enough. Just write very clearly about how you feel.
Take them to dinner
You can take the person to dinner if s/he agrees to it. Take them to a place where you have had good memories before and let the setting be a comfortable one for them.
WANT TO
WIN AT WORK? BE YOURSELF! There are many tried and tested tips to win at work–setting your goals, updating your skills, commitment, taking responsibility, networking, flexibility, taking risks, working smarter… and the list goes on. But in your mission to winning at work, have you found yourself going out of your way to adapt and change your personality while at work? Do you think you’ll be satisfied at the end of the day with the vocation while losing your own personality? Well, darling, if you think you are not ‘you’ while at work despite climbing the success ladder, contemplate deeply for a moment. Because in today’s world filled with an endless pit of choices, it’s very unfair for you to ‘win’ while being someone else at work. Below are a few tips on how you can win at work, while still being yourself.
38 | VOW | august 2011
1. Understand who you are: Be honest
with yourself and take into account how you really love to dress and behave, the kind of people you want to surround yourself with, and the types of work environments where you can be yourself (and succeed). But also keep in mind that your workspace can’t be a place of your imagination. See how far you can adjust without having to bury down all your expectations from your ideal career or workspace.
2. Identify your strengths: Recognise
your current marketplace value, as well as your financial situation and family responsibilities. By doing this, you’ll know if you can afford to be yourself 24/7. If you can’t, then you might have to have more than one job – one where you can completely be yourself and another where you’ll have to compromise with your true persona – until you’re financially stable.
3. Examine the audience (the companies) that would best reflect your authentic brand: The best way to do this is to ask peers what their experiences are like in their companies. You may also decide to start your own company so you can don't have to compromise much.
4. Create and communicate the brand that aligns your passion, expertise and allows you to make money:
Money definitely matters when it comes to being yourself, helping maintain a financial status that can support your lifestyle. Passion, which will force you to work hard enough to succeed in being an expert in a subject, only roots itself in an environment where you can just be yourself, or somewhere you have no qualms about changing how you originally are.
self Is it really okay to be your at work?
, it is In a business environment ber, em rem t best to be yourself. Bu ween bet line e fin a is re sometimes the sin ng “bu ess “being yourself” and bei be honest to appropriate”. It is best at you want wh and about who you are create a also l wil ty nes Ho . from a job your and better match between you might ple peo nce gla employer. At first ve, naï ly ive ess exc be to mistake you you and etc overly sweet, judgmental, ng ngi cha try might be tempted to change the your own personality to it won’t but , you w vie ers way oth , you are day work—at the end of the ! are who you really
Q&A CAREER I have been working in a reputed organisation for over six years now and so far I am pretty happy with where I am headed. My boss continually appreciates my work and I have been awarded several ‘Staff of the Month’ awards, hence receiving appraisals and salary increment from time to time. However, very recently I found out that this new girl, who works in a position lower than mine, is being paid almost equivalent to me, and much higher than most staff in her position who have already been here for long. Because I can see that she isn’t better qualified or promising than most staff already working here before her, I think this is a part of my boss’s ‘favouritism’ play. Every staff who knows of her salary is unhappy and says this is unfair, and I agree with them. I also feel that if she is getting paid that much, I deserve a raise too, and so do the rest of the staff who are more deserving than her anyway. How do I put this forward to my boss? Since I am the seniormost of them in my post, my colleagues have been telling me that I would be the best person to take this forward. Please advise. – Name withheld Firstly, it may be better to focus on the positive, ie, you are working for a reputed organisation, you have already invested six years in this company, you are appreciated for your work and have received several awards and increments! Don’t you agree that you have a lot to be thankful for? Considering the pathetic economic scenario of our country and the extremely low morale of almost everyone around us, you have not fared too badly have you? Sometimes it is far more useful to be grateful for what you have rather than complain about what you do not. As far as the “new girl” is concerned, if you are certain that her salary and perks are nothing but the boss’s “favouritism” at work, you should feel free to talk to him/her and express your concerns. But believe me, most bosses do have certain privileges and prerogatives which they exercise from time to time, whether their employees like it or not. Regarding being unhappy about unfair situations, who said that life is fair? So you have to decide if it is worth raising a big hue and cry about this issue and becoming the spokesperson for your colleagues. It may be more judicious to concentrate on doing your job well and showing sincerity to the organisation which has been good to you.
Dr Niti Rana, professional
trainer and motivator and director of The New Era Career Development Institute, will answer all your career queries. Email your questions to editorial@vow.com.np Contact her at 4471957.
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woman at work
THE CROP LADY!
40 | VOW | august 2011
Shila Thapa Swar
Deputy Director, Agro based & policy, Agro Enterprise Centre, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Shila Thapa Swar is in no hurry to be the answer to our farmers, but it may happen in due course of time. She plans to start a venture, promoting organic farming in the rural regions in the long run. For the moment she is happy and passionate about her work as the Deputy Director of the Agro Enterprise Centre (AEC) under the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). With an important role to play at AEC, if this 31-yearold woman with congenial looks and personality is someone who walks her talk, she will cruise through just fine and could emerge as 'the' answer to our farmers in the coming years. With VOW, she chats about her work, social responsibility, her better half, and about 'the big issue'—the quality of agricultural foods of Nepal, expressing concerns over the hyped mal-practices of chemical farming.
In her own words… AEC
I take care of the public and private sectors' agro business policies and put forward the issues of the community to the government. At the moment, I am also engaged with our team for Asian Development Bank's project of 'Raising income for small and medium farmers'. This project will cover farmers from around 10 districts in the mid and far western region of Nepal.
Passion
Going to the rural regions, understanding the real issues of people living there, discussing them back at office and being able to make a difference gives me a sense of pride and satisfaction. I have become more passionate about the rural developmental issues over the years.
The food that grows now
With high chemical traces found in many foods, exporting them is quite a challenge. The food that we eat is considered inedible in most countries abroad and do not qualify the importing country's certification. We like to think we are getting a reasonable amount of nutrients from the foods we eat, but recent studies show that the chemical intensive farming methods being used now are not delivering the vital nutrients that our forefathers once enjoyed. In addition, we are getting robbed of nutrients, good health and our money. By pumping hormones into crops to get high yielding products, hazardous methods are being used. I do not mean using chemicals is bad, but using it excessively hampers our health and soil.
Empowering our farmers
Without our government implementing the good policies that we have, there is no use of them. Being more into monitoring agro based issues, we provide them with information like daily vegetable prices through our website so that they can price their product accordingly. We do not deal with farmers directly. So understanding that many of our farmers are not website users, we will now be launching sms service to provide them with the daily vegetable prices. In that way farmers get the bargaining power while dealing with middlemen (brokers), who buy their products to supply the commodity to retailers or in the market. These
If wishes were mine… to bring about a change 1. I wish the government declared or allocated zones according to their methods of farming. Jumla is declared an 'organic zone' by SNV, Netherlands Development Organisation. Irrespective of how much it is considered authentic, anyone who buys a 'Jumla-apple' considers it healthy. In that way it has paved a good market for Jumla's agricultural products. Declaring specific zones will also encourage people like me, to maybe take a certain area on lease to farm. 2. Today more than 60 percent of farmers are women due to men migrating abroad for better economic opportunities and 70 percent of the population of Nepal is involved in agriculture. Women are seen to be handling all the household activities which have also given rise to their health issues. I want to empower women living in the rural parts, by providing them with skill development opportunities or through higher income generating methods of farming. Ten years down the road I would like to do this as my social responsibility.
middlemen hike the prices of the products to earn a good margin, leaving the public to face a high price of fruits and vegetables in the market and at the same time, leaving the farmers with less economical returns.
Off playing 'The crop lady'
Saturdays-I do not want to work at all. I just like being at home, spending time with family or going out with my husband and our daughter.
On her better half
My husband has always been very motivating. We married after a 10-year-long relationship. He gives me that extra push and helps me explore out of my comfort zone. He thinks I should start a venture of my own and I am contemplating on doing just that in the long run—something in relation to organic foods production. Text» Samridhi Rana Photo» Shankar Bir Byanjankar subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 41
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savor
Celebrating THE Youth is the joy, the little bird that has broken out of the egg and is eagerly waiting to spread out its wings in the open sky of freedom and hope… - James Matthew Barrie As we are all set to celebrate the 11th International Youth Day on 12 August, VOW presents 14 young and promising young guns who have not only excelled in their respective fields—be it sports, social work, art, music, engineering, writing, stunts, and even politics—but also have a heart for Nepal. Whatever they are doing now, they say, they are building inroads to a better Nepal… to make it shine in the global arena. Young dreams, versatile minds... these are just 14 dreams from among the hundreds and thousands yet unheard. Learning their stories, sharing their passion and determination, VOW has reason to believe that the following pages will give a fresh insight to what comprises the Nepali youth.
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Celebrating THE Kanchan Amatya, 18 student
• You may remember Kanchan Amatya as one of the winners of Fair & Lovely VOW Top 10 College Women Competition 2010. Ever since, this charming 18-year-old has gone on to achieve many things – awarded a worldwide scholarship in United World College in Norway as a representative of Nepal in 2010, Kanchan is already taking steps to achieve her dream of bringing significant change in the country. • She was recently in Bosnia for a global conference where she represented Nepal in the “International Peace and Conflict Resolution Conference 2010”. • Kanchan is also involved with a group, SaFuGe (Save our Future Generations), through which she collected enough funds to I believe that carry out a project in Gorkha while she was here in June for two and a half one is never too young months. Through the grant, a school to make a difference. benefited with reading and teaching After arming myself with materials as well as cost towards enough knowledge, skill basic infrastructure improvement. and experience, I plan to • She also instigated the “Fish Farming Project in Dhading” for devote myself to promoting which funds were raised towards and pioneering uplifting the socio-economic entrepreneurship in condition of the villagers. And these are Nepal. just some of the many things she's been involved in so far.
Arun Manandhar, 32 band member, Kutumba
• Arun Manandhar plays Tungna (lute) and Arbajo as the band member of Kutumba. He is one of the few talented musicians who play Tungna today. (Tungna is a string instrument with a body carved from a single piece of wood and has a resonating chamber made from goatskin.) • Besides playing traditional music, Arun is a skilful guitarist and loves to sing old songs of Deepak Kharel and Deep Shrestha. He learnt playing guitar from his elder brothers when he was just seven years old. It was much later that he learnt to play Tungna and Arbajo. • With a graduate degree in Commerce, Arun is a music teacher at Xavier's Academy. He teaches the guitar and takes vocal classes for students up to the ninth grade. • After much success and popularity of Kutumba, Arun confesses, "I have become more responsible after knowing that hundreds and thousands of people love us and our music. We are sincerely obliged We, as a band, to all our fans, society and country for this want to reach out wonderful support and we will perform better in future." to the youth through
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music to make them socially aware on issues that they neglect and to unite them towards a secure future for all.
Shreya Dhital, 16 swimmer
• Dreaming of being a mermaid as a child, Shreya Dhital at 14, won her first national gold in 50 metre freestyle swiming championship. She represented Nepal in the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) World Championships in 2009, held in Rome. (FINA is the International Federation recognised by the International Olympic Committee.) She recently represented the country again this year at the FINA World Championship held in Shanghai, and at the recent 16th National Open and Age Group Swimming Championship where she bagged 11 gold medals. • In 2009, when she was just 14, she raised Rs 25,000 for Roots & Shoots, an organisation working towards the When I environment, by putting up a solo hit 21, I will exhibition at the Nepal Art Council. be studying, Her collection of paintings in water colour was titled Honest Depiction. swimming, • This 16-year-old achiever says her USP painting and is that whatever she does, she keeps it loving life. 100 percent real.
Sonu Shrestha, 23
biomedical engineer, HAMS Hospital, and microbiology teacher, HAMS Nursing College • Sonu Shrestha is the first female Biomedical Engineer of Nepal. She is also fulfilling her childhood ambition of teaching. • Besides winning the prestigious VOW Top 10 College Women Competition in 2009, she is also a two-time winner of the Aishwarya Shield National Level Dance Competition. • Sonu is a wedding choreographer too. • In the future she wants to work towards empowering women and children on the streets. Establishing a dance academy providing formal degree to aspiring dancers is also very much in her radar.
Five years from now, I see myself having climbed up the ladder in the field of biomedical engineering, and enthusiastically contributing towards the society in whatever way I can. And of course, I also see myself acing various forms of dances from various cultures.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 47
Celebrating THE
Shristi Ghimire, 19 actor
• Shristi Ghimire took theatre lovers by surprise playing intricately the character of Laura in The Glass Menagerie, put up in June at the Kamalmani Theatre. She will soon be seen in the movie, Highway, which is set to release this winter, marking her debut in the Nepali film industry. She has also played the role of Vidhya in the TV series Hamro Team. • Acting actually happened to her by chance but for those who want to see more of her acting, she says she will continue to do so. "It is a hobby and I will never give it up," she quips. • In the future, she wants to work towards making a difference in people's lives, especially women, towards trafficking, domestic violence, etc, because she feels whatever is being done at present is still not enough. This dream of I don’t hers lives on.
believe I have just one USP!
Bijay Dewan Rai, 27
founder & coordinator, Youth Participation, founder & map editor, Nepal GPS Solution (NepGS) • Meet, Bijay Dewan Rai, the brain behind the 'audio books' for the blind in Nepal. Four years ago, Bijay was inspired by his sister and her visually impaired friend Phul Maya Rai, who made his sister read textbooks aloud so that she could understand her lessons well. • Though an Arts graduate from Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus, Bijay is keen on IT, especially in GPS navigation. In the future he wants to work as a Map Consultant in Nepal. • Apart from social work and technology, Bijay is also working on language preservation and research where So far only five he, with Jan Jaati Academy, is districts of Nepal preserving the extinct native have access to audio language, Muga by making an books. In the next five audio dictionary. years, I want to reach out • Helpful by nature, Bijay is also learning Braille and firmly to all the visually impaired believes in helping fellow Nepalis students in Nepal, through local aid.
covering all 75 districts.
48 | VOW | august 2011
Nimesh Ghimire, 20
co-founder, Minimally Invasive Education; founder, Goreto
I never give up easily!
• His childhood dream was to become a doctor. Now, he's an aspiring social entrepreneur, exploring new and effective ways in impacting the developing communities around the world. • At 17, Nimesh co-founded Minimally Invasive Education (MIE), an education project funded by Save the Children USA, British Council's Global Changemakers and the Department of Education. The project runs as the MIE Club in Budhanilkantha School where the students of Budhanilkantha go and teach underprivileged students in government schools. MIE Club works with about 50 students every year. • He founded a youth empowerment project, a Nepal Ko Yuwa initiative called Goreto, aiming to instil values of scholarship, leadership and citizenship in high school students. The project was funded by British Council’s Global Changemakers Programme, a network he is part of. He is working with Future Voices International to expand the project to India and Bangladesh. The Goreto values will be implemented as a part of the Empowering Asia Campaign, which he co-founded in collaboration with Sadiq Miah, founder of Future Voices International. • He along with his friend, Shirish Pokharel successfully introduced TED events in Nepal as TedxKathmandu, with the first event that recently just took place in July. TED talks are best known for its conferences held in six continents, devoted to what is called 'Ideas worth Spreading'.
Lex Limbu, 19 blogger
Lex Limbu is • All of 19, Lex Limbu is slowly not my real name. As becoming a household name among Nepali bloggers. a child I wanted to be a Launched in November 2007, commercial airline pilot. his blog lexlimbu.com is an I used to get teased for amalgamation of personal watching Nepali movies. I thoughts and the most recent have the habit of falling happenings in Nepal and the UK. It is amazing how even from asleep everywhere. the UK, he has the pulse of Nepal firmly in his control. The amount and variety of news and information he manages to assemble for his readers is interesting to say the least. The readers who, until this article was prepared, were numbered at 6,95,411 keep increasing by the minute. • He enjoys his parties as much as he enjoys campaigning for a cause. He states that awareness is empowering and he wants to be the fuel to raise awareness regarding issues in Nepal. • Taking inspiration from Britney Spears, he has learnt that hard work pays and one can rise above all negativity and hatred that surrounds them.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 49
Celebrating THE
Rukh Gurung, 25
co-founder and president, YUWA • Hailing from a small VDC in Kaski district, with a family background of lahures, Rukh, however, garnered deep interest in politics since he was very young... right since he was a third grader. By the time he reached class seven, he had already started rallying against corruption in his village. • After completing his intermediate studies in 2004, Rukh came to Kathmandu with aspirations to make a difference. Luckily for him, following an ad in a daily, in 2005 he got to participate in a civic leadership workshop organised by Youth Initiative (YI). After three years of active participation in the programmes organised by YI, Rukh became its vice president in 2008. • With the vision of doing something better for fellow youth, he co-founded Yuwa in 2009, of which he serves as president today. “Yuwa is a platform for youths where they not only get into activism but also cultivate necessary knowledge, talent and skills to secure their future, so that when today’s youth involved in Yuwa I think my retire, they still have a wide range of options ahead of biggest achievement them,” he states. till date is that I can • In the next five years, Rukh wants to make his VDC a model VDC by encouraging think differently from the entrepreneurship, supporting farmers through crowd, and I have that cooperatives, etc. Currently doing his confidence to go ahead postgraduate studies in Economics, Rukh aspires in life without any to become an economist in the future.
frustration.
Pratigya Tamang, 21 YouTube based makeup guru
• Popular as Promise Phan in YouTube and facebook for her amazing makeup tutorials, it's surprising to learn that Pratigya has never taken any makeup classes. She confesses to having all her school notebooks covered with pictures drawn by her. As she grew older, her own face became her canvas. Today with her unmatched makeup skills, she can effortlessly transform into anyone—Angelina Jolie, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Scarlett Johansson, Katy Perry, Johnny Depp, Justin Bieber, Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift to name a few. • She started doing makeup tutorials on YouTube only a year back with only a handful of subscribers. Today, the number has risen to more than 300,000 subscribers and over 36 million total upload views. Thanks to her overwhelming number of subscribers, Pratigya gets paid by YouTube for her videos. She also has over 85,000 fans from around the world on her facebook page. • She takes Michelle Phan, her sister-in-law as her inspiration. Michelle is the No 1 makeup guru and the most subscribed female on YouTube. • In future, Pratigya plans to take special effects makeup courses and sharpen her makeup skills further. 50 | VOW | august 2011
I can completely transform you into a different person just by using my makeup tricks. I also love dancing. Last year, I performed as Girl Michael Jackson for different shows in Pokhara.
Tenzin Tseten Bhutia, 26 fashion designer
© Karma Sangye Lama
• Tenzin Tseten Bhutia wanted to be a stylish chartered accountant when he was younger. Now he is a stylish fashion designer working with Himalayan Couture. • One of the most popular designers of the country, Tenzin's designs have been worn by the who's who in the glamour industry. • It is a credit to his designing abilities that Nepal got its first Haute Fashion calendar this January. Apart from the many fashions shows, his creations have Nepal and adorned pages of numerous Nepali its vibrant culture magazines including VOW. His inspire me to do designs and use of colours garner a lot of appreciation and his something for the beautiful jewellery designs are yet country in the another feather to his cap. fashion field. • In the future, Tenzin would like to show his creative designs at the Paris Fashion Week.
Samar Manandhar, 21 bike stunner
• Samar, with his childhood ambition of becoming a rally car racer, has already created a sensation in the field of bike stunts at just 21. After securing the runner up position in Yamaha Ride Tech Challenge 2010 (Season 1), he went on to ace the Yamaha Ride Tech Challenge 2010 (Season 2) and then also won the Honda Stunt Challenge in Chennai, India. • Like all parents, Samar's mom and dad were also concerned about the risks involved in the path he'd chosen. But since his dad was into stunts a long time back, Samar was inspired by him. He has always believed that if there is no pain, there is no gain. "I really tried hard, and now that I have proved what I am capable of, they are proud of me, but of course, they are constantly worried," he shares. • Five years from now, he sees himself racing in the World Rally Championship (WRC) or Moto Gp. As for the future, this stunner is highly inspired by Valentino Rossi and wants to get into motor sports engineering. • He rides a Yamaha YZF-R15, and his speedometer has the highest read of 140 km/hr.
My life was on the fast lane with a guitar in my hands and rock in my heart… it just got better with stunts and races.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 51
Celebrating THE Surya Prakash Bhatta, 21
national executive counsellor National Union of Students, United Kingdom • Highly influenced by his family members in politics, Surya always found his calling in politics even as a young child. After completing his intermediate studies, he went to the UK in October 2009 with aspirations to do his undergrad studies in Media and Politics. Soon, in the student union elections, he was elected its president – the first international student to ever hold this position. There are almost 24,000 students in his college. • Recently, Surya took a leap and was elected the National Executive Counsellor of the National Union of Students (NSU), UK, under which are seven million students. In a team of 15, he is the only Asian – and the only Asian till date to ever reach this position. He is responsible for working towards the welfare of international students and black ethnic minorities. “I carry their voices to the vice president and president, who in turn present them to the authority and we together make sure that minority students aren’t I am fearless, discriminated in any way.” and I don’t shy • Four years from now, Surya sees himself as the from doing whatever president of the National Union of Students. In my heart tells me to. the future, however, he wants to come back to And I have always had Nepal. “In Nepal, the student unions are more like political propagandists than a body working this habit of raising for the welfare of students. I would like to have that my voice against changed,” he shares.
injustice.
Sakil Kunwar, 19 Makeup and hair stylist
• When Sakil Kunwar decided to study hair and makeup (diploma in hair design and makeup from VLCC, Delhi) instead of medicine, Nepal got herself a talented artist. "I realised that I may just end up being one of those many doctors and felt that I am capable of achieving more than that," says this 19 year old. • After having worked his magic in models for commercials, fashion shows and shoots for magazines, he then went on to groom Miss Nepal 2009, Zenisha Mokta for the Miss World pageant. Since then he has transformed many beauties into glamorous divas by the stroke of his brushes. He hopes to be an important figure when it comes to beauty pageants and the fashion industry of Nepal. • He regards Osmel Sousa, president of Miss Venezuela Organisation, as his inspiration. Sakil admires the fact that Sousa worked hard to create the global craze for Miss Venezuela. • Sakil was also the official makeup I have zero and hair stylist for the models tolerance for kaam of Nepal's first Haute Fashion chor. I believe that my chor calendar.
courage to dream big and working towards achieving it is what sets me apart from my peers.
Text» Poonam, Evelyn, Samridhi, Pramila Photos» Sanchit, Sanu Raja, Shankar, Rajiv
innerview
A life in constant
evolution... Prof Dr Neelam Adhikari
Head, Department of Paediatrics Patan Hospital; Rector, Patan Academy of Health Sciences
It seldom happens – you interview a person who has nothing really ‘extraordinary’ to say, doesn’t give you any punch line to start an intro with, hasn’t done anything crazy, or isn’t a maverick in any sense – and yet, at the end of the day, you are inspired by the little things she had to offer. That’s precisely how talking to veteran paediatrician Prof Dr Neelam Adhikari made me feel. A simple woman with simple dreams in life, Neelam made me realise that life is what you make of it, and that happiness doesn’t necessarily come only when you chase after your own dreams… sometimes you have to believe in the dreams seen for you by your loved ones too. “I was very good in Maths and Physics while I was in school, and it was my ambition to become an engineer. But I gave up that dream to pursue my mother’s dream of seeing me as a doctor. I honestly have no regrets, and I wonder if I would be this happy in life if I really had been an engineer,” she beams. 54 | VOW | august 2011
EXCERPTS… Life is one’s personal experience…
Even as she shares her experience of letting go of her dreams to live that of her mother’s, Neelam also understands that things might not work the same way for all – “I have given all the freedom to my children to pursue whatever they want to in life, because what worked for me might or might not work for others. Life is one’s personal experience,” she says. Growing up in Bareli, in a family of five sisters, Neelam being the eldest of them all, vividly recalls how her mother, who was denied education as the only daughter among six brothers, used to almost enforce education on them. “My mom understood what it was like to be kept away from the light of education and she didn’t want her daughters to have the same fate. But since I was pretty good at studies, her pressurising didn’t really bother me much,” she shares.
Whatever you do, do well.
After studying in a local government school in Bareli, it took quite an effort for Neelam to venture out to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. “The medium of education in my school was Hindi and since students from all over India competed to get one of the 35 seats at AIIMS, I had a rare chance of getting in, because my English was really poor. But fortunately, most of the questions were numerical in nature and because I was pretty good at that, I got through,” she recalls. Neelam then reminisces how difficult the first three months had been, because the medium of education was completely English, and although she could understand English, she couldn’t yet speak it fluently. “After the difficult three months, I learnt English pretty well and came at par with the other students. I started doing pretty well at studies too, and after two years of so-so performance, I was among the best students at AIIMS in my third year of education,” she says. If she dreamt of making it big as a doctor someday while preparing for it, she convincingly replies, “Not all students think as deeply about becoming successful in life as they do about bettering their own performance every new semester, scoring higher than a certain classmate… you know, outdoing yourself at every opportunity. While I was doing my specialisation paediatrics, there was this teacher who told us, ‘You might not become great persons or make history in the field of Science, but that doesn’t mean you should give up. Continue working hard. Whatever you do, do well.’ I guess that one piece of advice is the best advice I have received so far. That is probably what my philosophy in life is too.”
Love over super-specialisation
While doing her specialisation in paediatrics, it so happened that Neelam found her partner for life. In the meantime, impressed by her performance, Neelam was offered a super-specialisation in paediatrics, but since she along with her husband-tobe had already decided to settle down in Nepal post-marriage, and because superspecialisation didn’t have much scope in Nepal then, Neelam decided to let go of the opportunity of super-specialisation to practice general paediatrics, which she says, was the best decision she made along with her husband. “After three years of practice in Delhi, we got married and came to Nepal forever, and I honestly have no regrets whatsoever,” she smiles. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 55
innerview
My strength... is my professionalism. ng emotional My weakness... is bei are emotional and
too soon. All women but it doesn’t I don’t regret being one, en you are in wh work most of the times rce. kfo tas al ion a highly profess
Inspiration... my moofm,eduforcation
Settling down in Nepal— lots of changes, no difficulties
Leaving behind her career in New Delhi and her family in Bareli, and settling down in Nepal forever sounds a bit challenging, but Neelam says life became easy after adapting to a few changes. Her family was concerned but not unconvinced about marrying Neelam off to Nepal because her father was pretty much acquainted with Nepal thanks to his business, and if not anything else, they all knew that Nepal is somewhere very near. “The plus point was also that our North Indian culture and the Nepali Brahmin culture is almost the same. So there were not many difficulties per se,” she recalls, even as she acknowledges the support of her husband and in-laws. The Nepali language, she says, she learnt very quickly. Another major change she had to adapt to here in Nepal was the fact that Neelam was already a senior doctor back in Delhi and had lots of junior doctors assisting her. But as she started working in Shanta Bhawan, as the head of paediatrics department, Neelam had to do most of the things herself. “It was a pretty busy hospital and there were lots of patients to take care of. But since there weren’t many paediatricians then, I had to do most of the things which used to be taken care of by junior doctors back in India. But it was a great learning process. I only grew fond of my work,” she says, adding how her busy schedule compensated the fact that she didn’t have any friends here.
Motherhood and lessons learnt
Two years into marriage, Neelam gave birth to their first child, a son. “Then we were living in the quarters of Shanta Bhawan because I was the chief of service at the hospital and since there were very 56 | VOW | august 2011
few paediatricians, I had to be available on demand. When our son was born, we had to find help to take care of him, but because the hospital and the quarters were in close proximity, I could run and see my son whenever I was a little free,” she recalls. Balancing the duty of a mother and that at the hospital was pretty tough, she agrees, “But not impossible. Us being paediatricians also helped in taking care of our child, but then advising someone and doing the same yourself are different things. It is challenging to raise a child, but it’s worthwhile. I am really glad he’s grown to become a responsible young man.” So what did she learn from motherhood? “Well, do all you can for the good of your child, but never expect anything in return. Motherhood is pure selfless giving!” she offers.
Constantly evolving as a person…
When Neelam joined Patan Hospital around 30 years back, there wasn’t a separate department for paediatrics. So she says she takes great pride in having established one. “I consider the paediatrics department of this hospital as my own child, because I started right from the planning phase of this department… I even offered how the rooms should look like, where the beds needed to be placed, etc,” she shares. Softspoken and friendly, this doctor then went on to make friends in the process of her duty. “I am a woman, and a paediatrician. So it was only natural for the women who came for the check-ups of their children to talk openly with me. In the process, they started confiding in me, sharing things that people normally don’t share in a doctorpatient relationship. Over a period of time, a bond was created between me and some of the women who came over with their children. Many of my good friends today are
inculcating the value king me in me, my husband for ma portive in sup understand what being , friends and ers sist my , love really means y helped me family who have constantl grow as a person. ke a hasty Marriages... don’t ma en you are wh decision. Only marry it. for really prepared it’s very important Being a woman...nfi dence, because -co self to have ample the other, will the society, in one way or fidence con t always try to break tha in you. , but what Life is beautiful... yes al experience… son per y ver a makes it so is ends on the but of course, a lot also dep g high vin Ha . kind of person you are ps. hel er nev life expectations from mothers of children who were my patients then,” she smiles. The stories shared by her patients made her understand women better, she says, “It made me understand myself better… I wouldn’t have evolved as a person otherwise.” Neelam says she continues and will continue to evolve as a person.
Present involvements and future plans
Apart from heading the department of paediatrics in Patan Hospital, Neelam is also the rector, and professor of paediatrics of the Patan Academy of Health Sciences (PAHS), a medical institution that is dedicated to sustained improvement of the health of the people in Nepal, especially those who are poor and living in rural areas, through innovation, equity, excellence and love in education, service and research. Soon to formally retire from her work, Neelam, however, still aspires to continue working as a paediatrician, and to get more involved in social work—specifically in the area of children since her expertise lies in them. “I am also looking forward to having more free time so that I can spend more time with my family, read more books, watch TV, travel, and of course, try my hands in photography.” Text» Poonam Maharjan Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 57
woman to watch
One of the winners of Fair & Lovely VOW Top 10 College Women Competition 2010, Kanchan Amatya has gone on to achieve many things. Go to page 46 to learn more about this young achiever.
©VOW photofile/Rajiv Shrestha
White Tank top and Skirt with flower prints
58 | VOW | august 2011
Lucky Ace • Teendhara Pathshala, Durbar Marg • 9803242686 Accessories : Bentley • Durbarmarg 4220006
girl in
bloom
Jumpsuit with flower prints Blueberry • Woodland Complex, Durbarmarg • 4223226 Ring with flower details : Bentley • Durbarmarg • 4220006
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 59
my beautiful life Meera Jyoti, the better half of business scion Padma Jyoti and mother of two successful sons, Saurabh and Suhrid,embodies a strong woman. Firmly entrenched in social work and lending a helping hand whenever she can, Meera is a board member of Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre, Secretary General of Buddhist Women's Organisation, and the co-coordinator for the land and building committee at Tewa. The hand behind the smooth When my family members graduate to new cell phones, I get the hand-me-downs. At present I am functioning of Jyoti Farms is also hers.
Current cell phone:
using the iPhone 2G given to me by my daughterin-law, Arati.
My life is beautiful because…
Meera Jyoti
Stress buster:
Watching an entertaining movie!
I have shared 40 beautiful conjugal years with my loving and caring husband. And also for the fact that even after undergoing six surgeries on my leg, I can walk. Each step that I take is a gift!
In my hand bag, I always have
©VOW photofile/Shankar Bir Byanjankar
Cash of course, and credit cards, mobile, hand sanitiser, a chapstick, and sugar-free Altoids are a must.
Latest splurge:
The Amazon Kindle for my husband.
My two wonderful grandchi Shreyans, eight and Suhasini, four, make each moment of my life beautiful.
e-down item Favourite hand-m ond earrings that my
pair of solitaire diam and a mother gifted me during my marriage, me that I gave er moth my that ors sciss of pair have been using till date.
Makeup
I don't use much makeup, but I like L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Compact which comes in different shades. For my lips, I use colours which are subtle and not too bright. My favourites are Christian Dior and Clinique.
Diet mantra
I stick to what I heard once: Bhagwanle diyeko sabai khane, tara thorai thorai ra khusika sath.
Favourite designer Satya Paul
Skincare
I have oily skin, so I use St Ives Apricot Scrub which leaves me feeling fresh and clean. During the day I use Olay Total Effects 7 in 1 Anti Ageing Cream and before I sleep I apply Night of Olay Firming Cream. To protect my skin from sun, I use Nivea Sun Moisturising Sun Block Lotion SPF 20.
Style icon
Hema Malini, because she has aged gracefully and looks elegant in everything that she wears.
Fitness regime
Pranayama and light weight-lifting.
Current watch
The most beautiful … moment of my lifeldren ,
Oldest item in my closet My
wedding saree which I have stored for my last journey…
The secret behind my glow...
I think my inner happiness reflects on my face. I am content with my life and am happy doing what I can to bring change in the lives of the less privileged in our society.
Current perfume
Anaïs Anaïs by Cacharel. Actually I never buy perfume—I use whatever has been gifted to me by my near and dear ones.
Shopping destination
For a person like me who wears only sarees, and occasionally kurtas, Delhi is a treat.
My sturdy Seiko Day Date Watch
Style mantra
Simple, elegant and unobtrusive.
Addiction
My husband says I am addicted to "Connect it", the game on my iPad and to Uttaran and Balika Vadhu serials on Colours.
Text» Pramila Rai
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 61
guest column
The Power of
Gr titude
you shift your energy from egoic mind to spiritual connection. This shift then allows you to view even the hardest of events as having some level of good in them. There are, however, times in life you may be faced with seemingly insurmountable struggles. During these times, embracing gratitude is especially important even though it may be the furthest from your mind. Focusing on the struggle and allowing it to consume all your energy will only lead you downward.
Being thankful is an easy enough concept. Someone does something nice for you and you show gratitude toward them in return, right? We are taught this polite way of interaction as young children, and as adults understand its importance in life. We have all seen the physical effects a genuine “thank you” has on another person. But have you ever stopped to think about how being thankful affects you? Well science has… as a matter of fact researchers are beginning to look deeply into the very concept of gratitude and its effects on the human body. Scientists across the globe are now studying the correlation between health and the practice of gratitude. Their findings are remarkable. Researchers have shown that people who practice daily acts of gratitude or embrace a more thankful attitude, report fewer illnesses, have increased satisfaction and restful sleep, make quicker progress towards personal goals, and have higher levels of concentration, energy, and an overall more positive attitude regarding life. Scientists have linked this connection to the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the part of our nervous system responsible for emotions and different limbic structures in our brains that release our feel good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. As a result of these connections, maintaining an attitude of gratitude significantly improves our health, immunity, and overall sense of wellbeing. Adopting a thankful attitude in all aspects is, in reality, a meditation on humanity. In living from a thankful based perspective, you will begin to shift your own interaction with your entire world. When you focus on gratitude instead of struggle 62 | VOW | august 2011
So how do you embrace gratitude when facing some of life’s harder challenges? Accept the situation for what it is, a life teacher. We have all had that one hard teacher who will forever stick in our minds. We hated them while we had them. They were hard, they made us miserable, they pushed us to our breaking point, we feared them, and they called us to be much more than we ever believed we could be. Years after our experience with them, however we can look back and see how much we learned from them. We can see how their existence in our lives changed us forever. During times of struggle see your situation no longer as the enemy, but rather as a very hard teacher you can then thank for its presence in your life. By shifting your mind from me to that of the hard teacher/thankful student, you will shift your energy to a more positive space where resolution and healing can flow faster. When you are thankful you walk lighter, you live fuller, and you interact with a level of natural compassion. Living with gratitude as a daily practice reduces tension and stress while it simultaneously improves your health, mental functioning, and sense of excitement about life. So how do you begin this shift to living a life of gratitude? First you can begin at the surface level by using everyday moments to give thanks. As you walk down the street, give thanks for the sun on a cold winter’s day or for the air conditioning in your office during those blazing days of summer. Give thanks each time you step into your car or house. Say thank you for the running water each time you turn on the faucet. Begin to thank all those around you for their presence in your life on a daily basis. Instead of having
an idle mind, use every spare moment to connect to gratitude. You can also begin to integrate gratitude deeper into your life by looking inward at yourself. Recognise areas in your life where you can adopt a more thankful approach. How would gratitude shift your energy in this situation? How would being thankful increase your acceptance of the situation and your involvement? What is the lesson in this situation and where can you become the thankful student? You may wish to find a co-worker or friend to join you in your shift to gratitude. This way you can remind each other about your commitment to living a grateful life throughout the day and in conversations. You can also use a visual reminder to refocus yourself on gratitude if it helps. Find an object you see or hear many times a day. Perhaps it is a watch or a ring or your phone. If you spend a lot of time on the road, then you could pick red cars or pickup trucks. Maybe you have a grandfather clock or a bell that sounds each time the door opens. Find something you can use as a refocusing object. When you have found your “focal object” make a mental note each time you see or hear it, to check in with where you are in your thoughts. Are you being grateful no matter what you are dealing with? Have you made the shift from struggle to thankful student? If you have not, then simply utilise that moment to shift back to gratitude and congratulate yourself for your new awareness. If you do find you were in a thankful state then commend yourself and move on. You may also use your refocusing object to look at your self-talk. Are you getting caught up in complaining about a certain someone or situation? Are you judging yourself or perhaps someone else harshly? Is your self-talk overwhelmed by struggle or uplifted by gratitude? By adopting an attitude of gratitude you will not only begin to see improvements in mind and health but you will begin to see the benefits cross over into your career and personal relationships as well. Living with a thankful heart and mind will shift your focus, improve your health, and help you reach your true potential. tara patricia is a respected author and
speaker in the field of Self Transformation. She holds a Master in Psychology with Advanced Post Graduate Studies in Clinical and Neuropsychology. Tara has worked for many years with families and suicidal adolescents. She considers The Road You Were Meant to Travel to be an “out of the box” individualised workbook full of direction and tools to help the readers fully experience life’s exciting and rewarding journey. To learn more, visit her at www.tarapatricia.com
health feature
The Mystery Behind
Water Retention If you are frustrated with that ever-fluctuating swelling in your fingers, toes and joints, if you are confused why and how you gained that weight in your tummy or on your legs, you may want to find out if fluid retention is the cause of your weight gain. Here we have remedies and more, to unravel the dilemma behind fluid retention. Read on...
Understanding fluid retention
Fluid is drained out of the body tissues via the lymphatic system. When water from the blood leaks into the body tissues and is not removed by the lymph system, this water is retained in the body tissues causing swelling. Due to the effects of gravity, water is mostly retained in the lower limbs as it tends to flow southward and pool in the feet, ankles, and legs, although no area of the body is immune. The two broad categories of fluid retention include ‘generalised oedema’, when swelling occurs throughout the body and ‘localised oedema’ when particular parts of the body are affected.
Symptoms can include:
• Swelling and aching of the affected body parts. • Joints feel stiff. • Rapid weight gain over a few days or weeks. • Unexplained weight fluctuations. • When pressed, the skin may hold the indent for a few seconds, known as pitting oedema. • In other cases, the skin may not indent when pressed, also known as nonpitting oedema.
A wide range of common causes may include: •
Gravity: Standing for long periods of time allows fluid to pool in the tissues of the lower legs.
•
Hot weather : The body tends to be less efficient at removing fluid from tissues during summer.
•
Menstrual cycle: Some women experience oedema as a pre menstrual syndrome in the two weeks prior to menstruation.
•
Menopause: While most women expect
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to experience hot flashes, during menopause, many are surprised by weight changes due to decreased progesterone levels. Water retention and bloating generally resolves itself within a few months. •
Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCP): OCP that includes oestrogen can trigger fluid retention.
•
Dietary deficiency: Deficiency of protein or vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the diet.
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Medications: Certain drugs, like high blood pressure medication, corticosteroids and Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are known to cause fluid retention.
•
Chronic venous insufficiency: Weakened valves in the veins of the legs fail to efficiently return blood to the heart. The pooling of blood can result in varicose veins.
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High salt intake: Salt has high amount of sodium that can cause fluid retention.
•
Medical conditions: An underlying medical condition could be the cause, chronic venous insufficiency, kidney disease, heart failure, chronic lung disease, cirrhosis, malignant lymphoedema, thyroid disease, arthritis or allergic reactions are known to cause oedema.
Prevention and treatment
If you suffer from occasional bloated feeling, the kitchen is a good place to deflate yourself. Give these home remedies a try to banish some of those extra fluids. Avoid salt: Around the time you expect your period, drastically reduce your salt intake. Sodium increases fluid retention. Eat bananas: Potassium in bananas eliminates fluid retention. If you are not
a banana fan you can have a handful of raisins instead. Use ice packs: Apply ice pack for five to ten minutes on affected areas. A bag of frozen veggies also works well. In summertime, dip legs (ankle-deep) into a bath of ice water. People who have diabetes or poor circulation in their feet should skip the ice bath, however, unless directed to use it by their physician. Consume natural diuretics: Cranberry juice, cabbage helps, as they are natural diuretics. Eat yogurt: Active cultures found in low-fat yogurt help stimulate digestion. If you have overindulged and are feeling the effects, treat your stomach to a cup of plain, low-fat yogurt that contains active cultures. The active cultures aid in digestion and increase the good bacteria in the gut. Drink water: When you feel waterlogged, guzzling a glass of H2O might be the last thing on your mind. But it may be the best thing for you. Water flushes out the system better than anything else, and can also reduce premenstrual bloating.
Do’s and Don’ts
During breaks, walk around the office or up the stairs. Spend a portion of the lunch hour on your feet, exercising. • Do cross off the notion that crossing your legs is the way to sit. Doing so limits the blood flow through the thigh veins, in turn aggravating the swelling in the lower legs. • If you have to squeeze into your pants, you can be guaranteed that pressure is being placed on your upper thighs and waist, in turn restricting the removal of fluids from the lower legs. • Limit alcohol intake and smoking.
•
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 65
exerfile
Your way to
flat abs...
We all want flat abs, don’t we? And if you think you’ve done everything possible to attaining it without much success, the following combination of isometric and isotonic exercise is what you should be doing. Simply put, isometric exercise is very effective for reducing the deeper layer of fat while isotonic exercise is most effective for melting away the upper layer of fat. Follow these exercises regularly and your abs will be ready to flaunt soon enough!
STEP
STEP
First stand straight and raise both your arms straight up towards the ceiling. Next, take your right leg forward and bend it at an angle of 90 degrees. Now lower your arms to the sides and lift your left knee towards your chest while squeezing your abs and straightening your right knee, and then come back to the first position. Repeat eight times. On the last count, hold your position for 20-40 seconds. Then change legs.
1
Keep your legs wide open, knees slightly bent, your toes pointing outside and your palms placed on the back of your head as shown in the picture. Now bend your torso to the right while exhaling and place your right elbow on your thigh while keeping the left elbow straight up. Hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally, and remember to squeeze your stomach. Then come back to the first position. Repeat eight times, and then change sides.
2
Required: Two sets on each side (One set = eight repetitions)
© VOW photofile/Nibendra Pradhananga
Required: Two sets on each leg (One set = eight repetitions)
STEP
STEP
Sit on the floor with your knees slightly bent and raised above the floor together and your hands holding your hamstrings. Now extend your knees straight while exhaling and come back to the first position while inhaling. Repeat eight times. On the last count, hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally. Don’t forget to squeeze your stomach.
3
Required: Four sets (One set = eight repetitions)
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Lie down on the floor on your left side, supporting the body with your left elbow, your right palm placed on the back of your hand, your right leg lifted at an angle of 45 degrees to the floor and your left leg slightly raised above the floor, as shown in the picture. Now raise your left leg upto the level of the right leg while bringing your right elbow towards the left, while exhaling and then come back to the first position while inhaling. Repeat eight times. On the last count, squeeze your stomach and hold for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally. Then switch sides.
4
Required: Two sets (One set = eight repetitions)
Q&A WELL–BEING STEP
Lie down on your back with both your legs raised towards the ceiling, crossed together. Bend your elbows and tighten your fists. Now slightly lift your shoulders, open your palms and extend your arms straight while exhaling. Repeat eight times. On the last count, hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally. Don’t forget to squeeze your stomach.
5
Required: Four sets (One set = eight repetitions)
Hi, I’m a housewife with two kids. Whenever I put on weight it’s mainly around my stomach and upper back area. I have a bigger upper body compared to my legs. I have been practicing yoga for the past two months, four times a week. I am not seeing any results. Please advise me as to how I can lose the weight around my stomach and back. – Beena, Maharajgunj Our basic body shapes are mainly determined by our genetics. The shapes can vary from tall, short, wide or narrow shoulder, hips and so on. Gender and hormones also play a role in distribution of fat around the body. Generally, men tend to put fat around their upper stomach and women more on their lower stomach, buttocks and thigh. Our basic body shapes remain with us for the rest of our life. Physical appearance can be greatly increased with proper exercise and sensible eating. The goal is to ensure proportion and symmetry which equals to beauty. Exercise can be used to improve muscle tone, gain symmetry, lose excess fat, correct posture or balance muscle volume which can add value to your basic physical shape and overall appearance.
STEP
Lie down on your back with your right knee bent and slightly raised above the floor, your palms behind your head with your fingers crossed together, your left leg raised straight towards the ceiling and your head and shoulders slightly raised as shown in the picture. Now lower your left leg at 45 degrees to the ground while exhaling. Then come back to the first position while inhaling. Repeat eight times. On the last count, keep your left leg at 45 degrees and hold the position while squeezing your abs for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally. Then change legs.
6
Required: Two sets on each leg (One set = eight repetitions)
Yoga is a great form of exercise, however, in addition you should incorporate cardio and resistance training which will prove to be very beneficial to lose weight and shape up. Sample routine • Four days of cardio (jogging, brisk walking, aerobics, zumba, kickboxing, etc.) • Three days of resistance training (large muscle groups, compound movements, 20 minutes each – this can be performed after the cardio) • Yoga – use as a warm up, sukshma byayam (dynamic warm up) and cool down (postures and breathing) Note: Since you are a beginner, it’s better to hire a trainer to show you the ropes. Start slow and pick it up as your fitness level increases. Good luck!
SaNDeSh paLuNGWa LiMBu
STEP
Lie down on your stomach with your feet together resting on their toes, and your elbows bent and palms placed beside your chest. Keep your shoulders and head raised slightly above the floor as shown in the picture. Now raise your torso by pushing the floor with your palms and lift your hips while inhaling. Then come back to the first position while exhaling, squeezing your abs. Repeat eight times. On the last count, hold the position for 20-40 seconds while breathing normally.
a certified professional fitness instructor, founder of RAGE Fitness, also specialises in mixed martial arts. He will answer all your fitness queries. Send your queries to him at ragefitness@live.com
7
Required: Four sets (One set = eight repetitions) Hisako Utsugi is an America Fitness Aerobics Association (AFAA) and Japan Aerobics Fitness Association (JAFA) certified aerobics instructor, as well as a certified yoga instructor. She is also an exclusive instructor at Lalit Mandap Hardik Club. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 67
health bulletin
Q&A MENTAL HEALTH
Q&A TEETH
My son is three years and nine months old, and since he was born with a cleft palette, he has already undergone two surgeries for the same and was hospitalised for one and a half months. And may be because of the surgeries, he also started speaking later than most kids. Today, he has grown to become a quick learner like most kids, but he doesn’t seem to show any interest in studies. I have admitted him to a Montessori school since he was just two, but we have witnessed very little progress so far—he only occasionally recognises alphabets! I am really confused, and don’t understand what his problem is. Could there be some mental problem? Some deficiency perhaps? I am really worried about his future in this competitive world. – Pratima Lama
I am a 31-year-old man. Because of my unhealthy diet like drinking too much black coffee and smoking I have developed uneven teeth resulting in tartar formation. My dentist performed scaling and recommended me to visit him after three months for another one. I asked my friends and colleagues about scaling and found out that they did it only once a year! Now I am worried. How frequently should we do scaling? And is undergoing scaling very often bad? – Arun Malakar
Inability of recognise alphabets could be initial manifestations of Reading Disability, technically called “Dyslexia” and could be mild, moderate or severe, and its incidence is nine percent in the general population. Children with clefts are known to have higher rates of reading disability: 35 percent with moderate and 17 percent with severe disability. The rates are considerably higher for primary school children (ages six to seven years) as learning at this stage is based on sound-symbol relationship and syllable blends and children with clefts are at disadvantage because of the peripheral speech difficulties. As the child ages, reading become more of a linguistic task and if it is only due to expressive language difficulties then he is likely to “catch up” to peers. However, if it is occurring due to central language dysfunction (something inside the brain) then there are more chances of it persisting till adulthood. To find this, one has to go through a thorough psychological, cognitive and educational evaluation and early interventions can ameliorate many of the symptoms of reading disorder. For instance, it is a common practice to avoid phonics instructions to such children. At the moment your son is very young to make any definite forecasts. However you could start a six-monthly or yearly psychological assessments to keep track of his development.
It is good to know that you have started taking care of your teeth. Our mouth is the gateway to our body and if we take good care from there onwards, we will certainly lead a better life. Scaling is a procedure where the hard tartar stuck to your teeth are removed to allow the gums to be in healthy condition which further stops the process of bone loss and ultimate tooth loss. Some people get more tartar than others, and some are more susceptible to gum diseases than others. As a dentist, we recommend the gaps between treatments based on your risk to that particular problem. Your dentist may have found that you have a higher risk than others and therefore wants to see you earlier. S/he may just want to monitor the progress. It is strongly advised to go on with your dentist’s suggestion. And on your part, please ensure that you brush and floss twice daily and do not allow any plaque on your teeth to form. If there is no plaque, there is no tartar.
Dr NeiL paNDe,
Dental Surgeon at Healthy Smiles, will answer all your teeth queries. Send your queries to him at neil@smilenepal.com
Apart from the intellectual abilities, one should not forget that emotional life is equally important as well. Such children experience threat to self-image, peer ridicule, social anxiety, depression and long term problems in social adjustment. These aspects have to be worked out with the help of mental health professionals, teachers, family and friends.
Dr ShaRaD MaN taMRaKaR,
health bulletin
Neuro-Psychiatrist at Norvic International Hospital, will answer all your mental health queries. Send your queries to him at editorial@vow.com.np Contact him at 4258554/9851007474.
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Household chores improve heart’s fitness!
Doing household chores could actually help improve the fitness of your heart, a new study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise suggests. The researchers from Queen’s University, Canada have found that incidental physical activities-defined as physical activity throughout the day associated with daily living, like climbing stairs, walking around office or cleaning the house-actually add up and can boost your cardio respiratory fitness. They included 135 obese men and women in their week-long study and used accelerometers to measure the number of minutes per day they spent doing these everyday physical activities, as well as the intensity at which they did the activities. Researchers found that the intensity seemed to matter the most, when seeing how these everyday activities contributed to overall cardio respiratory fitness. The amount of time they did them for didn’t matter as much, though, the study said.
Q&A HEART I am a middle-aged woman with three adult children. I am going through menopause at the moment. To treat the menopausal syndromes, my doctor has opted Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and I had read somewhere long ago that HRT is linked with an increase in breast cancer, heart attack and stroke in women. I am confused whether I should go for it or not. Is it true that HRT causes heart problem in women? Please advise. Name withheld Women only rarely develop heart attacks before reaching menopause. The reasons are not well understood, but certainly hormones must be playing a major role. There was a time we thought that HRT would decrease the risk of heart disease. Several studies done, however, later confirmed that that was not the case. In fact, these drugs were shown to mildly increase the risk of heart disease, strokes and also breast cancers. However, these drugs do have some advantages as well. They may relieve hot flashes, flushes and night sweats. They also prevent bone thinning, hence providing protection against osteoporosis and associated fracture. They may also offer protection from colon cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Hence, hormone replacement drugs should be used cautiously with the consultation of a gynaecologist. Safer preparations are available now which when used judicially are pretty safe and effective. Overall, there is no threat of increased mortality (death rate) with the use of HRT. Women should have their regular check-ups, mammogram, etc. These drugs are certainly not to be used with the aim of decreasing the risk of heart disease!
Dr BhaRat RaWat,
Executive Director and Consultant Cardiologist at the Norvic International Hospital, will answer all your heart queries. Send your queries to him at drrawat@norvic.wlink.com.np
Drink a little with dinner to protect your memory
Q&A HOMOEOPATHY I am in my mid 30s and I have never taken any homoeopathic medicine in my life. Recently, I have seen many people taking homoeopathic treatment, but there are lots of doubts in my mind regarding homoeopathy. Are they as effective as conventional medicines? Are there any guidelines that one should follow while using homoeopathic medicines? And can homoeopathic medicine and conventional medicine work together? Please help me clear my doubts. – Bhavyana Basnet Yes, homoeopathic system is becoming more and more popular as people are becoming aware about its benefits and exploring its potential, not just for treatment, but also for prevention and maintaining a good health. I personally feel homoeopathy can go hand in hand with modern medicine. Unlike what medicine was a century ago, modern medicine has grown a lot with steady research. They now acknowledge the principles of homoeopathy and are also working on lowering the doses and quantity, yet making the medicine more potent. Also the definition of health has broadened to include mind and spirit besides body, a principle of holism, which was propounded by homoeopathy almost 200 years ago and has been prevalent in eastern medicine since time immemorial. But modern medical system still has to reach the depths of understanding of these principles to make it even more efficacious. Homoeopathic medicines are very simple to take, but difficult to prescribe. To be sure that you receive the right medicine, it is important that you give elaborate details of your present and past conditions, your physical and mental constitution as well as an elaborate family history of diseases to your doctor. Even the minutest details make remedies change in homoeopathy as they are individualised for your symptoms. Then, you need to have patience, because although the medicine begins to act immediately, it takes its time to steadily complete the process of cure. During this journey, you and your doctor need to work as a duo. This is the most important aspect of homoeopathic treatment. Every disease that is not completely surgical comes under the domain of homoeopathic treatment. It works at the level of life energy and helps in bringing about inner harmony and the effect of a proper homoeopathic treatment is life-long if completely cured.
Dr RuChi SaXeNa DhaKaL,
Consultant Homoeopath at Karuna Healthcare, will answer all your homoeopathic queries. Send your queries to her at drruchi@holisticswasthya.com. Contact her at 4017511.
While being a heavy tippler can lead to memory loss, a new study finds that drinking in moderation may actually lower your risk for memory problems. In an analysis published in Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, participants who downed seven or fewer alcoholic drinks total per week had the lowest risk for cognitive impairment, compared with women who didn’t drink at all and those who imbibed more. Researchers believe alcohol’s antiinflammatory properties may be the reason. Or it could be that people who drink moderately also tend to lead a healthier lifestyle. Cheers to that!
health bulletin Did you know?
• Carrots are not only good for eyes, but also great for your skin. Two glasses of carrot juice a day can increase your immunity by as much as 70 percent and cure Vitamin A deficiency-led conditions such as premature wrinkling, acne, and dry, scaly and rough skin, especially on the arms and legs. Carrots also have anti-inflammatory properties! • Relaxing for 10 to 20 minutes a day can help reduce your blood pressure and anxiety. To de-stress any time of the day, sit or lie down somewhere comfortable, breathe in and out slowly… and feel the flow of air from your abdomen… you will be surprised at the calming effect. • Homoeopathic remedies work just as well with animals as they do with humans. They gently stimulate the healing force of the animal and cure the disease. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 69
sex rules
Elusive
Orgasm The
Part II
I am confused as to what and how exactly I should ask you this. I am a healthy 35-year-old woman, and I have been happily married for eight years and have a five-year-old son. My husband is a six feet tall, 35-year-old sporty man and we have done almost all the sex asanas. We love experimenting and we have made love in different places like the bathtub, kitchen, and even while watching TV. The best thing is we don’t compromise on our foreplay and I enjoy that very much. I get aroused quickly, we experiment, and my husband fully supports me to enjoy my best. However, my main problem is that, in these eight years of marriage, I have never had that charam sukha (orgasm). I also do hasta maithuna (masturbation) and it feels good. We are open with each other but I have never discussed about me not getting orgasm with my husband because I know there could be something lacking from my side. I say this because prior to marriage, I had sex with my ex-boyfriend and I didn’t orgasm even then. Please help me find solutions as to how I can get full sexual satisfaction with my husband because I love him very much but I am always disappointed (sexually) at the end.
Dr pooNaM thapa,
Sexual Health Expert and Life Coach, will answer all your sexual health queries. Send your queries to her at editorial@vow.com.np
I very much doubt if there is something lacking on your side. It also does not mean that if you did not experience orgasm with one man, that you won’t with another. You need to first clear your head of your own misgivings. I agree orgasm is an important experience, but sex should not be driven by it alone because anxiety about not having it, is its own barrier. Not all sexual encounters have to end in an orgasm; the experience has its own personal context for the couple and partners. According to the Hite Report on Female Sexuality (2004), only 29 percent women in the western world climaxed during penetrative intercourse but 82 percent climaxed as a result of self and mutual masturbation or oral sex (cunnilingus—use of mouth and tongue). We eastern women are no different. From the way you have described your sexual response cycle, you and your husband seem to be at ease with each other, happy experimenting, yet you have never had an orgasm in all these years! Now here I do agree it is a strange situation to be in. So let me see how I can help you but step by step so that you are not disappointed again, no woman should be. Step oNe: Let’s practically define female orgasm. Men always ejaculate sooner or later (unless they have learned to withhold semen) so you know they have peaked. For a woman it’s more difficult to say but there are some definite signs of orgasm. Do you feel the sexual excitement getting higher and higher as you proceed with the sexual act or does it remain even? It should be the former. Do you find your body towards the end is succumbing to involuntary quickening actions including muscular spasms in multiple areas of the body, a general euphoric feeling as you are reaching the peak and then an intense sensation of pleasure in the vagina, a muscular contraction in the lower pelvic muscle, verbalisation of wanting more, followed by quick relaxation once your body feels it can take no more and a happy tiredness at the end? Well darling, you’ve just experienced an orgasm without knowing it! Were you expecting anything more because there isn’t? If what I have just described is not there and for a few women there isn’t, then let’s go to step two. Step tWo: Men/Husbands – Slow down! Ian Kerner, author of She Comes First: The Thinking Man’s Guide to Pleasuring a Woman says and I quote—”The average man can maintain genital thrusting for two and a half minutes before ejaculation but the average woman requires 15 to 18 minutes of
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persistent clitoral stimulation to have her first orgasm. That 12-16 minute difference is a gaping maw of frustration for her”. Basically, most women prefer slow, gentle techniques of building sexual tension. So men, please persevere. There is erection holding techniques which you can choose to learn and sometimes do let her come first. Since a woman can often have multiple orgasms at one particular time, I don’t think a man will be left disappointed by being, very simply put—patient. Generations of women have gone to their graves without experiencing orgasm even once (but have had children) for no other reason that the man is too fast. I mean this literally and not figuratively. Step Three: Read Sex Rules July 2010 What you have asked is not uncommon. I have broached the subject on the lack of female orgasm in this very same column in July 2010. The title of the article was “The Elusive Orgasm”. Please do go into the VOW archives online. There are tips there which, I have no doubt, will be helpful for someone in your situation. Foreplay, while good, won’t help. It’s about the pace of entry, position and rhythm during intercourse. Here is a shorter version of the article: Have a look at an anatomical picture or sketch of the vagina and see where the clitoris is located. The sole function of the clitoris is to give women sexual pleasure. Now find the part that says vaginal opening and you will see there is a bit of a distance between it and the clitoris. When your husband enters you (if he is on top, also known as the missionary position), you need to position him slightly higher up your body to ensure that the clitoris is being stimulated by the penis and request him to thrust only when you feel your excitement rising. You will also have better control of your orgasm if you are on top. In this case push yourself a little down your husband’s body. A few times have the orgasm before your husband as it will give both of you confidence. Practice makes perfect! Step Four: The G-Spot The reality of the G-spot as an erogenous zone… hmmm! According to its founder Ernest Grafenberg, the G-spot is the sensitive place located about two thirds of the way up the front wall of the vagina. The G-spot has had its share of unsure ponderings about its very existence in scientific circles and the talk still lingers. This is because many women swear by it. The orgasm is said to feel different from the one that is had through clitoral stimulation, which is a more common occurrence. The G-spot, if it exists within you, is aroused by inserting the forefinger or middle finger (or both) in the vagina and pressing against the front wall or by rear entry position in sexual intercourse. Do make sure when using the finger(s) that your or your husband’s nails are cut very short. If nothing happens don’t worry, just put it down to an interesting and fun experience and return to the clitoris (Step Three) Step Five: If you still don’t experience an orgasm, see an experienced OBGYN. When you see a doctor, ask if the size of your clitoris is normal. It usually is. Then ask if foreskin covering the clitoris is ok. Usually the foreskin falls aside with regular sex and during arousal. Ensure there is no immovable skin covering the tip of the clitoris. If there is then ask what could be done about it? Your doctor may suggest a minor outpatient surgery. Ask how long you should refrain from sex in case of surgery. If the doctor gives you a clean chit then it’s all in your head. Go back to paragraph one of my response. Have a think, relax and continue to enjoy what you already have. The orgasm will happen when you least expect it. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 71
animal anecdotes
A Pet’s Heart Failure
in NUTS and SHELLS Heart failure represents a situation where the pumping action of the heart is still active and effective, but not quite enough for the body’s needs. In congestive heart failure, the hampered blood flow leads to leakage of clear fluid into the lung tissue or into the body cavities such as the chest or abdomen. This fluid leakage is responsible for the symptoms of congestive heart failure, which most commonly include shortness of breath, coughing (dogs), exercise intolerance, and distension of the abdomen. Heart failure is both a setback and an opportunity. It is a setback because it indicates that despite the body’s efforts, 72 | VOW | august 2011
In healthy animals, as in healthy people, a normally functioning heart distributes blood continuously and evenly throughout the circulation to supply all the tissues and organs. However, some animals may develop heart disease, which compromises the circulation. The body has ways of reducing the impact of such heart problems, which keeps symptoms in check. If the underlying heart problem is ongoing, however, eventually circulation is hampered beyond the body’s ability to compensate. The situation in which any heart disease or heart problem progresses to the point of outstripping the body’s ability to contain it is called heart failure.
the underlying heart problem has worsened to a degree that cannot be kept hidden, or asymptomatic. Dogs and cats with heart failure, like people with the same, typically show outward signs of exhaustion or breathlessness because the heart is not working well. However, heart failure is also an opportunity because most of the medications in veterinary medicine that help with heart problems function to help once heart failure has occurred. That is, our ability to help heart disease in a dog or cat is very limited in the early stages, at least in part because the body does a good job of this on its own. Once heart failure has emerged, daily medications can be life
saving and they can restore a normal quality of life to an individual that otherwise would have difficulty surviving. Virtually any heart problem, if severe enough, can cause heart failure. Some dogs and cats are born with heart abnormalities (congenital cardiac problems) that may eventually lead to congestive heart failure if the problem is not diagnosed and treated until months or years later. Some breeds are genetically predisposed to heart abnormalities that lead to congestive heart failure. Any of these types of heart problems may overwork the heart over time, and if the heart is not able to keep up with the body’s demands, the result is congestive heart failure.
Heart failure can develop in all breeds of dogs and cats. The course of heart failure ranges from mild at one end of the spectrum to advanced and life-threatening at the other. Early in the disease process, symptoms may not be evident. However, under any circumstance, heart failure is a serious concern. With heart failure, symptoms are apparent. Symptoms, especially laboured breathing, can become life threatening if the patient is not examined and treated by a veterinarian; and treatment, usually in the form of medications given everyday, but sometimes surgery is indispensable for life.
Diagnosis: When heart failure occurs, it is almost always the result of longstanding heart problems. Very often good quality cardiac stethoscope, two-view X-ray and cardiac sonogram are needed. Blood work, such as a complete blood count and serum chemistry profile, and a urinalysis, provide information about the pet’s overall health status and the function of the kidneys and liver. This is necessary to help your veterinarian determine which medications are likely to be best tolerated and most appropriate. Many or all of these tests may be necessary to determine whether your dog or cat has heart failure. You should feel free to ask your veterinarian about the importance and significance of the tests.
Living with the Diagnosis
Once a heart problem has advanced to the point of causing heart failure, the prognosis is guarded; some pets with very severe heart failure that do not respond well to medications live only days or less after heart failure has been confirmed, whereas most others, which are not so severe, do well with medications and live comfortably for a period of weeks, months, or years, depending on the degree of underlying heart disease. Heart failure is a condition that is always serious and that frequently compromises life expectancy, but at the same time, cardiac patients receiving medication at home is generally comfortable, happy and lives on for a significantly longer period. With heart failure, lifelong medication is usually required. Give medications exactly as directed. It may be necessary to eventually change dosages and medications, depending on your dog’s or cat’s response to the medication and on progression of the underlying heart problem. With pets whose hearts have failed once or more, even if the situation has improved with medications, some degree of restriction of exercise is usually necessary. Do not force your dog or cat to exercise if they are reluctant to do so. The specifics vary from one animal to the other and should be discussed with your
Dr SaRoJ YaDav,
senior veterinarian at Animal Hospital and Research Centre, Subidhanagar, will answer all your pet queries. Email your questions to sarojyadav641@hotmail.com Contact him at 4480005
veterinarian. Feed only the diet(s) that is recommended.
Signs to watch for:
Watch for general signs of illness, which could be related to medication intolerance or illnesses involving other parts of the body, including lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, weight fluctuation, and changes in behaviour such as hiding more than usual and aggressiveness. Watch for signs of congestive heart failure, which include laboured breathing (dyspnea), exercise intolerance, increasing fits of coughing (often with the appearance of “wanting to cough something out”), bloated abdomen (as a result of fluid accumulation), or fainting (syncope).
Routine Follow-Up
Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress, typically within 10 to 14 days after heart failure is first diagnosed. During follow-ups, X-rays of the chest and a blood sample are routinely checked to make sure the fluid retention of congestive heart failure has cleared, to determine if treatment should be adjusted, and to pursue any abnormalities on previous blood tests. Further rechecks are always necessary, but the interval varies from a few weeks to every six months, depending on the way the disease progresses.
Q&A PET I have a five-month-old female German Shepherd and the problem is that she often eats her own waste. I provide her with three meals a day, but she often refuses to eat and despite feeding her pedigree puppy food, she hasn’t gained proper weight. Now I am confused. Is she suffering from any sort of disorder? – Nilanjana Sharma Dear Nilanjana, this is a very common problem in a German Shepherd. Experts report that it is associated with some behavioural problem, but medically, it is concerned with different mineral deficiencies such as phosphorous and magnesium. But at the same time, if a puppy has poor digestion, it can smell the aroma of the food in their stool and get tempted. Therefore, because there are many possible reasons, I would like to suggest that you consult with your veterinarian for a thorough check-up.
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quiz and polls
How
Oisldyour
? T R HEA You may blow out an ex tra candle on your birthday cake every year, but just how old is your heart? Take this qu iz to determine the “vascular age” of your ticker and learn how old your heart is. Al so discover how you can shave off the ye ars with simple lifestyle changes.
1 2
How old are you? a. Below 35 b. 35-50 c. 50-plus
Are you, or were you ever, a smoker? a. b. c. d.
No Yes, but I quit a long time ago. Yes, but I quit recently. Yes.
74 | VOW | august 2011
3
Which of the following statements best describes the amount of physical activity you get daily?
a. Plenty—the only days I am not at the gym are rest days. b. Zilch—unless you count walking from my front door to the car. c. Some—I walk everywhere and I try to take the stairs instead of the elevator.
4
How much sodium are you consuming daily?
5
What’s your waist size?
6
Fruit and vegetables are...
7
If stress was an object, I would...
a. More than 1,500 mg. b. Less than 1,500 mg. c. Honestly, I don’t know. a. More than 35 inches. b. 28 to 35 inches. c. Less than 28 inches.
a. Garnish, right? b. Stars at every meal c. snacks that I end up eating once or twice a day
a. Blow it off like a handful of feathers. b. Feel pinned down and unable to move. c. Need a backpack to carry it around.
8
Do you have a family history of heart disease?
9
Do you have high blood pressure?
10
a. Yes b. No c. I don’t know. a. Yes b. No c. I don’t know.
Do you have high cholesterol?
a. Yes b. No c. I don’t know.
SCORE a- 1 a- 1
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
a- 1 a- 4 a- 4 a- 4
b- 2 b- 2 b- 4 b- 1 b- 2 b- 1 b- 4 b- 0
c- 3 c- 3 c- 2 c- 4 c- 1 c- 2 c- 2 c- 1
d- 0 d- 4 d- 0 d- 0 d- 0 d- 0 d- 0 d- 0
8.
a- 1 a- 2
9.
a- 2
b- 0
c- 1
d- 0
10.
a- 2
b- 0
c- 1
d- 0
7.
RESULTS Score: Less than 10 You are “young at heart” Congratulations, your chronological age corresponds with your heart’s age. You should feel confident that your low-sodium, highproduce diet, and regular exercise routine is keeping your heart young, and thus lowering your risk of heart disease. Keep it up because you can actually slow the ageing process of your heart. Score: Between 10 and 28 You are “middle-aged at heart”
Chances are you don’t feel middle aged, even if you fall into that age group chronologically. But you may not be leading as heart healthy a lifestyle as you need to be in order to reduce the impact of age’s effect on your ticker—namely, modifying the biggest influences on your risk of heart disease, including smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, abdominal obesity, stress, a lack of daily consumption of fruits and vegetables and daily exercise. Making just a few changes can have a ripple effect. For example, exercise is one of the best ways to reverse the effects of ageing on the heart (including atherosclerosis—hardening of arteries).
Score: 28+ You are pushing “senior at heart”
Good news—it is possible to be 60, and have a 40-year-old heart. If you’ve landed in this category, you should consult with your physician about ways to lower your “elderly” heart age, otherwise you face increased risk of heart disease. Don’t give up, over time actions such as quitting smoking, for example, will reverse the premature heart ageing caused by the addiction in the first place. Similarly, maintaining a healthy body weight, especially as you age, is very important in the battle against heart disease.
Source: besthealthmag.ca
As summer kicks in, are you jetting off for a vacation? d) 44% a. Yes! b. I’m taking a vacation, but I am not flying. c. I’m all about ‘staycation’ this summer. d. I haven’t decided yet.
a) 23%
b) 17%
c) 16%
QUESTION Do you have the email password of your partner? a. Yes
b. No
Voice your opinion in our poll and make your choice count. Send your answers to editorial@vow.com.np or simply log on to website www.vownepal.com
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spices Women line up for Miss Tourism auditions
The audition for Miss Tourism 2011 took place on 27 July at Nepal Tourism Board. It is a part of Planet Peace's project called, 'Project Peace 2011' in order to promote and contribute towards the tourism year. There were about nine shortlisted women at the interview exhibiting their best. The final results are due.
‘Khoj Astitwa ko’
The Godavari Alumni Association, Rotaract Club of Kathmandu Mid-Town, Youth Peer Education Network Nepal, Parichaya Samaj and YES NEPAL, jointly organised a documentary show followed by a talk programme on 25 June. The documentary film titled Khoj Astitwa ko was screened which is based on the issue of gender and sexual minorities and third gender. The speaker on the occasion was Manisha Bista, president, Federation of Sexual and Gender Minorities, who dealt with the queries form participants and also highlighted the latest political and social changes. A press release issued by the organisers the same day also informed about a 10-day campaign from 1-10 July, celebrating International Year of Youth. The aim of the celebration was to make the voices of youths heard and raise awareness on the issue of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
Riza Upreti live
It was singer Riza Upreti performing live at the I Club on the night of 29 June. With Galaxy Modelling Agency organising the event, there were four DJs—DJ Joy, DJ Ray, DJ Nir and DJ Ansu who set the dance floor thumping later in the night.
Llareggub Press releases Manan Karki's book
Manan Karki's first book, The Memory of Leaves, was first released in Ireland by the Pillar Press in 2009, and on 26 June 2011, the second release of his book took place at the Nepal Tourism Board hall. The ebook version of the novel is also available on Amazon Kindle.
Helping students make the right choice!
The 9th Higher Education and Career Fair 2011 was held from 23 to 26 June at the Bhrikutimandap Exhibition Hall. Organised by Direction Nepal, the objective of this exhibition was to help students wisely decide about what and where to study and to present them with options so that they can decide what is best for them. Scores of recently SLC passed students were found sitting through many counselling services. Apart from the many colleges of the country, representatives from India and Singapore were also present in the fair. 76 | VOW | august 2011
Pourakhi and Ramesh Shrestha together for Children and Women
Rujuta Diwekar honoured
Superstar of Nepali film industry Rajesh Hamal presented the Young Achiever's Award to celebrated Indian nutrition specialist and fitness professional Rujuta Diwekar on 1 July, at a programme organised by BP Koirala India-Nepal Foundation and Today's Youth Asia in Hotel Yak & Yeti. The event also presented a talk programme on 'Size Zero: Myth or Reality' featuring Rujuta Diwekar in which she talked about the goodness of eating right, and also shared some tips on how to lose weight without giving up on food.
Graduation day
The first batch of students of the Ullens School to ever attend the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) graduated on 24 June. With IBDP recognised as a world class degree, Ullens boasts of being the only IB World School in Nepal to be authorised to deliver the programme. Peter Daglish, a well known authority in the globally accredited IBDP, and also the founder of Street Kids International was the keynote speaker at the ceremony.
On 24 June, Pourakhi, an organisation which helps everybody associated with foreign employment, together with poet Ramesh Shrestha organised a solo poem recitation night aiming to help the women involved in foreign employment and their children who have to be rehabilitated in society. The event supported by eminent personalities like National Poet Madhav Prasad Ghimire and politician cum writer Pradeep Nepal, was successful in bringing together lots of people from different walks of life. The evening was made lively with the soft folk music and meaningful poems by Ramesh Shrestha.
Pl. and Expressions in Clay
Siddhartha Art Gallery in collaboration with Kathmandu University Centre for Art and Design and Ceramic Hands organised a painting exhibition titled, Pl., a painting series influenced from the life of working class, by Man Bahadur Harijan and a ceramic group exhibition titled, Expressions in Clay on 23 June. Verena Grafin von Roedern, German Ambassador inaugurated the programme. The three-storey art building showcased more than 50 artistic showpieces.
Old for new!
Nothing to Declare
With the success of the "Adidas old shoes exchange month' campaign in 2009, Adidas is back with the same campaign for a month starting from 15 July this year. Any old but wearable sports shoes are viable for exchange with a new pair of Adidas shoes, and that with heavy discounts. The collected old shoes will be donated to Maiti Nepal.
Nepal Bharat Library organised the 13th edition of Tavern Tales on 17 June which featured Ravi Thapa's recently released and critically acclaimed book, Nothing to Declare. In this edition of Tavern Tales he was in conversation with writer/editor Deepak Thapa on the middle class experience of becoming modern in Kathmandu. The book has also been shortlisted for the Frank O'Connor International Short Story Award.
Alchemist of Flavours
Maiti Nepal's Musical Night held
Maiti Nepal organised a beautiful musical event, Shakti: Joining hands towards Empowerment at Hotel De'l Annapurna on 17 July in which women and children of Maiti Nepal gave marvellous performances. The musical night comprised of three shows: Orchestra Shakti, Dance Ritsika and Drama Naari. Fourteen young girls played popular songs like Phool ko aankhama, Resham phiriri, chyangba ho chyangba, etc, whereas children from Child Protection Centre performed cultural dances showcasing the diverse culture of Nepal. Naari highlighted the issues of trafficking and violence against women, which is still deeply rooted in our society.
Promoting Gender Responsive Democratic Governance
Artist Proof Prints Art Gallery
Empowering women
On 13 July, SAP Falcha organised an event where 45 various NGOs related to women, law and development presented their reports on discrimination against women. After Nepal's initiation into the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) on 22 April 1991, this is the 49th session where talks on how handicapped women are often mistreated, the need of existing laws to be implemented and so on were widely discussed. The shadow report was prepared based on the government report and from various findings and surveys conducted by the involved organisations.
SAP International in collaboration with SAP Nepal organised a three-day South Asian Regional Conference on “Promoting Gender Responsive Democratic Governance in South Asia” from 28 to 30 June at Airport Hotel. The conference promoted an in-depth discussion on laws, policies, practices and mechanism of political governance institutions and advance exercise among concerned stakeholders to develop common agendas and point out concrete strategies to initiate comprehensive advocacy campaign to promote conducive environment for women's participation in politics at regional level.
Medication and spirituality workshop
Osho Tapoban and Bio Med jointly organised a day long spirituality and health workshop on 16 July. The workshop focused on the holistic approach of mediation and medication for a good spiritual, mental and physical health. During the event, key speakers— Dr Abani Bhusan Upadhyaya, president, Nepal Cardiac Society, Dr Sushil Koirala, chairman, Bio Med, Dr Rishi Kumar Kafle, executive director, National Kidney Centre and Swami Anand Arun, coordinator, Osho Tapoban, spoke on the need and importance of medical approach combined with spirituality.
©VOW photofile/Sanu Raja/Shankar
On 17 June, Artist Proof Print Gallery organised an exhibition of etching art works by upcoming Nepalese Printmakers. The prints covered vast areas like Gods and Goddesses, phases of life and Sadhus. The programme was inaugurated by British Ambassador John Tucknott. The exhibition continued till 16 July.
Irfan Ahmed, a celebrated mixologist from India gave a live demonstration as he presented Melon Mary among other drinks even as he shared simple tricks on how to salt the rim of a glass, juggle mixers, etc at a press meet held at The Fun Café, Hotel Radisson on 13 July to inform about their initiation of a three-day event Alchemist of Flavours held from 13-15 July at The Fun Café. At the three-day event, Chef Shaun Kenworthy from United Kingdom and Irfan Ahmed prepared a tempting fusion food and beverages of Indian and Italian ingredients.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 77
Your guide to happening movies, music and books What’s New
What’s Hot
What’s Selling
MOVIE Kung fu Panda 2 Director: Jennifer Yuh Voice Cast: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Dustin Hoffman, Gary Oldman, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross Genre: Animation/ Action/ Adventure Consolidating his position as Dragon Warrior and still supported by the Furious FiveTigress (Angelina Jolie), Monkey (Jackie Chan), Mantis (Seth Rogen), Viper (Lucy Liu) and Crane (David Cross)-Po (Jack Black) initiates his search for his real dad while Lord Shen (Gary Oldman) embarks upon what he sees as his prophesised mission to take over all of China with an ‘unstoppable’ new weapon. To do this, Shen must conquer ever-more territory in his quest for additional metal, while Po’s investigation triggers a flashback revealing that his abandonment by his real father had an unimagined link with present events, leading to a pretty spectacular battle involving battleships, cannons and Po’s rediscovery of his “inner peace” in a pictorially imposing harbour. An absolute feast for the eyes and pleasure for the ears, Kung fu Panda 2 with its universal appeal rejoices everyone.
MUSIC Get your Heart On! Band: Simple Plan Key tracks: You suck at love…, Loser of the Year…, Jet Lag…, Can’t keep my hands off you…, Freaking me out…, This song saved my life Simple Plan’s fourth album, Get Your Heart On! is probably the best album of their career, and one of the best in the genre thus far in 2011. You Suck at Love kicks off Get Your Heart On! further proving the album’s purpose. The chorus is ‘monstrous’ and is definitely the biggest hook the band has ever written, and unlike most pop bands, the ones here don’t sound like they were just thrown on for the sake of it. The songs are catchy and strong, and the ambitious closer, This Song Saved My Life, marks a suitable end to an album that may have just saved their credibility!
The Catcher in the Rye Author: J D Salinger
First published in 1951, J D Salinger’s classic novel The Catcher in the Rye is something that cannot be forgotten-intriguing, simple, unique and intelligent! Narrated entirely from the point of view of 16-year-old Holden Caulfield-a boy on the cusp of manhood who is trying to find his way in the world of adults-his ambivalence about becoming a man is evident from the very beginning. He is a cynical, immature teenager who is full of angst. The novel is really a retrospective covering a narrow timeframe that begins when Holden is kicked out of an expensive prep school and extends over about four days as he takes the train back to his home in New York City and encounters various other characters. Holden Caulfield is not likable-he is antagonistic, smokes incessantly, and uses foul language in nearly every sentence. He is also a rather unreliable narrator, a boy who overcompensates for his insecurities by being jaunty and full of himself… and yet, the story keeps you going for days, questioning yourself and relating yourself to it. subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 79
“The road ahead is difficult and
I am not” afraid!
GRAHAM ROBERTS
HEAD COACH, NEPAL NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM
When All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) hired Graham Roberts, a retired English footballer in January 2011 for three months to help Nepal qualify for Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup, this 52-year-old white-haired coach not only proved himself and nailed ‘victory’ once again into the hearts of diehard football fans across the nation... but held his place in their hearts right through. Nepali fans and ANFA is happy to see Nepal climb the FIFA Rankings from 159 to 136. And jubilant Graham got his contract extended for a year as coach to the youngest Nepali National football team. “I can make Nepal better and a different team. And I will,” beams confident Graham who has been leading Nepal in the ongoing World Cup Qualifiers, and will also lead the team in the upcoming South Asian Games. Amidst football fever that has gripped Nepal, VOW caught up with the Head Coach of Nepal National Football Team, Graham Roberts, who shares his insights on football, music, and many other things…
His childhood days…
Graham was born and raised in Southampton, England with five other siblings. He attended Weston Park Boys School. “My education was okay. I was good in Mathematics and English, and my school and parents nurtured and inspired me to become a footballer. I started to play when I was seven years old,” recalls Graham. Primarily, his football journey commenced from Southampton to Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Dorchester and Weymouth that led him to play football professionally.
Professional career from 1980 to 1992…
While playing for Weymouth for six months in1979, three professional clubs approached him—Oxford United, West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur. “I signed my contract with Tottenham Hotspur. I enjoyed my time there,” Graham proudly shares. He won two Football Association Challenge Cups, commonly known as the FA Cup and a Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Cup with Spurs in 1980s. Then, he moved to Glasgow Rangers in 1986 and won the Scottish Premier League and Scottish League Cup. In 1988, Graham joined Chelsea and helped his team win the Second Division championship. Later, he moved to West Bromwich Albion and hung up his professional football boots in 1992. Graham further equips, “As an international footballer, I won six caps for England.”
On his defensive role as a footballer…
Graham vividly shares, “I started as a central forward and while I was playing in the youth team for Portsmouth I scored 57 goals in one season. And when I broke my ankle, I went back to midfield. During my stay at Tottenham Hotspur, I mostly played as a midfielder and when I got few injuries, the club asked me to play central back. That’s how I ended up but I really enjoyed it!”
His coaching journey…
After retiring from professional football he wanted his lifelong passion to continue and coaching gave him that option. In his
17 years of coaching tenure, Graham as a football manager has managed clubs and national football teams. This disciplined coach adds, “I really enjoy the hard work of coaching. I enjoy the pulse of winning and I enjoy making players better.” As a coach, players know him as an honest person who makes the team feel like a family where every player feels like they are wanted. That’s one of his biggest assets.
On Nepal National Football Team
Graham is content to be a part of Nepal National Football team with two brilliant coaches—Upendra Man Singh and Meg Raj KC appointed by ANFA. He asserts, “I had no reservations coming here from Pakistan. I don’t mean to disrespect Pakistan where I worked as a consultant and a head coach, but everybody in Nepal loves football whereas Pakistan prefers cricket. So far I have enjoyed every minute of my stay here.” All praises for his young boys, he boastfully adds, “If we work hard and prepare properly I have players who can unflinchingly beat any bigger team. I just want them to be as professional as I am. Because I am sure the road ahead is difficult and I am not afraid. And I think we have a good chance at the international level too.”
Music…
Graham claims that he has never been a passionate music person in life but he does listen to Top 20 on the radio when he’s in England and here while he’s travelling with the boys. He shares, “My boys listen to latest songs ranging from pop to hiphop but I prefer to listen to songs of Elton John, Diana Ross, Rod Stewart and Bruce Springsteen.” He confessed that the only Nepali song he is familiar with so far is the national anthem. “While I was playing the tournament, I once tried to play the piano but it lasted only for a month because my fingers were too big!” he quips.
Music and football…
“When the boys go out on the pitch, I try to relax them for an hour earlier by playing music in their dressing room. Though they won’t relax too much, it somehow works and I think music is good for football,” chips Graham.
IN HIS OWN WORDS Life is... to be enjoyed because you can be dead tomorrow!
Three most memorable moments of my life are… Firstly,
when my kids were born. I have three daughters and a son. Secondly, when I was the Captain of Tottenham Hotspur and picked the UEFA Cup, and thirdly when I scored the goal in the finals against Anderlecht.
Football is… The best show/sports
in the world.
Favourite football club…
Tottenham Hotspur as I have a very soft spot for them.
Footballer in his best form today is… Lionel Messi! He is the
best player so far… nobody can touch him at the moment.
Coaches who have inspired me are… Keith Burkinshaw and Peter Shreeves of Tottenham Hotspur, Graeme Souness of Glasgow Rangers and Bobby Campell of Chelsea.
An inspirational song… National Anthems because they inspire the team! Energetic song… Born in USA by Bruce Springsteen
My aim is… To give players a fantastic experience and to promote the team in the international level. Message to players… If you go
into the pitch with a losing mentality you will not win anything. So let’s get out there with a winning mentality!
Message to football fans…
Come, enjoy and support football! The more noise you make, that’s better for us. And I will do everything in my utmost best to make Nepal very popular and successful. Text» Evelyn Moktan Photos» Shankar Bir Byanjankar subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 81
new spark
new spark
new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark new spark
Real Burrst kills thirst!
Big Mart Department Store in Lazimpat!
occupied by the The three storey building previously t, is now the new mpa Lazi in e Stor ent artm Bluebird Dep 00 square feet, 19,0 outlet of Big Mart. Spreading over e of food items, rang a plete com the ground floor offers a and frozen food cco, toba rs, liquo les, stap , beauty products household has items, among others. Similarly, the store and shoes bags s ladie , etics products, stationery items, cosm ices like serv rs cate floor third the e whil on the second floor worry t don' And rs. unisexual salon and spa to its custome has four store the you‌ with about not having enough cash ATM counters!
Get Real Burrst, the newest fruit beverage from Dabur Nepal which is light, refreshing and quenches your thirst by keeping you fresh and cool. This new drink is available in Mango Mania, Orange Bytez, Crispy Apple and Mixed Fruit flavours. You can get it in both 200 ml single serve and one litre pack. Available in nearby stores!
Lazimpat Open: 10am to 8pm, seven days a week Tel: 4005200
Go BOLD with Levi's
ŠVOW photofile/Nibendra Prdhananga
Levi's is the latest iconic brand outlet on King's Way. Check out the classy, stylish denims, t-shirts, shirts, caps and belts for both men and women. Levi's denims are available in straight cut, slim fit, boot cut and loose fit. The store, spreading over 1,400 square feet, also offers sunglasses from Oakley and shoes from Dr Mar tens. Durbar Marg, Adjacent to Adidas show room Open: 10:30am to 8pm, seven days a week Tel: 4226432
Village Crafts opens in Lazimpat
at the Oberoi With a successful Asian Arts outlet the proprietor, , stha Shre an Moh Hotel in Mumbai, ari, has opened in collaboration with Jolly Rajbhand ca is a probable repli Village Crafts in Lazimpat. This ck out for a Che ues. antiq for answer to your fetish icrafts made hand an Indi and tan Tibe of wide variety India. Card and al by craftsmen in the villages of Nep . lable avai payment service is also Below Tara Oriental, Lazimpat Open: 10am to 7pm, seven days a week
r The exclusive Silver House in Durba Marg! Marg.
r items in Durbar You can now shop for exclusive silve usive silver showroom in excl Yes, Royal Silver House, the only usive jewelleries, the excl des Besi ! Durbar Marg is now open rated plates, bowls, showroom also deals with beautiful deco ry, crockery, gift items glasses, dinner sets, dishes, tea sets, cutle orders and prepare take also they e, and showpieces. What mor customised items just as you like it. Times Square, Durbar Marg week Open: 9:30am to 8pm, seven days a 680 4230 646, 4230 Tel:
star signs
win
man! your
Good things happen when your partner knows you appreciate him. You can show your approval, admire, or flatter him. Whatever approach you take, remember to appreciate one another, indulge in a little creative flattery, and enjoy a lot of that win-win energy. Read on to find the way to win him over with a compliment that will undoubtedly allow you to reap rewards too...
Aries (21 Mar – 19 Apr)
“Brilliant! I’ve never seen anyone do that before!” Self-motivated, energetic, pioneering Aries is the king of individual sports, as well as the natural leader of any team. He shines brightest on his own initiative. Be his mirror and see what he will do for you.
Taurus (20 Apr – 20 May)
You might want to consider seafood. He’ll do lots more than cook tomorrow.
Leo
(23 Jul – 22 Aug) “You really won big with that one!” No one loves success and admiration more than the kingly Leo. You can’t go over the top with praise so long as it’s sincere. Go ahead and be his adoring queen.
Virgo
“How beautiful! And it feels just luscious!” Even if you’re only window-shopping, you can share his sensual aesthetic. No one values artistic creature comforts like a Taurus. Let him enjoy it with you. Who knows what he might give?
(23 Aug – 22 Sep) “My patience is so gone! Please help me figure this out!” Virgo is the embodiment of patience with details, meaning, for example, there is no computer problem that he can’t solve. And he’s so happy to help.
Gemini (21 May – 20 Jun)
Libra (23 Sep – 22 Oct)
“What shall we try next? What catches your eye?” Gemini is the universal wellspring of restlessness and new ideas. Creativity and perpetual stimulation are his fuel. Keep his tank full and thrill to the shared ride.
Cancer (21 Jun – 22 Jul)
“We can stay in tonight, and I’ll cook.” Although homebody Cancer is a dynamite cook on his own, you can still touch his heart by the way of his tummy. 84 | VOW | august 2011
“Could I have your opinion on this?” The champion of partnership is Libra. Get him involved and include him on anything and everything and see how his eyes shine! He’ll be happy to compromise, too.
Scorpio (23 Oct – 21 Nov)
“You’re the only one I can tell this to...” Share a deep secret with your Scorpio, especially if it’s about something he does not suspect, and you will deeply touch the heart of this king of secrecy.
Sagittarius (22 Nov – 21 Dec)
“So why don’t we just pack our bags and go?” Even if a trip is out of the question, the mere thought of traveling will warm the heart of a Sagittarius. All his eagerness and enthusiasm will be yours.
Capricorn (22 Dec – 19 Jan)
“No one else could hold all this together!” Capricorn has that rare combination of ambition, competence, and responsibility. Flatter him relentlessly with honesty and he’ll work tirelessly for your happiness.
Aquarius (20 Jan – 18 Feb)
“Want to go a different way?” Nonconformist, freedom-loving Aquarius is always happy to leave the herd behind and go in his own unique direction. Modern gadgets are good, too, so when he blazes a trail, offer your GPS. He’s yours!
Pisces (19 Feb – 20 Mar)
“You make me feel so much better!” Compassion and empathy are two of the many middle names of Pisces. Flatter that emotional rapport and he’ll cling to his connection with you. Be careful or you will bring tears to his eyes.
subscribe online: www.vownepal.com | VOW | 85