Lifestyle News Live: Stay informed with Hindustan Times’ live updates! Track the latest lifestyle news including fashion trends, style guide & Tips, India & World Events. Don’t miss today’s key news for November 17, 2024.
Latest news on November 17, 2024: Tourists are flocking the town of Shimla in November.
Lifestyle News Live: Get the latest news updates and breaking news stories from the world of lifestyle. Track all the latest fashion trends, delicious recipes, travel tips and more. Disclaimer: This is an AI-generated live blog and has not been edited by Hindustan Times staff.…Read More
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Nov 17, 2024 2:33 PM IST
Art and Culture News LIVE: Foreign tourist influx peaks in autumn tourist season in Shimla
Due to its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and historical charm, Shimla is considered an endearing destination for foreign travellers.
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As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many of us may feel our mood dip along with the sun. Winter can significantly affect serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, happiness, and emotional well-being. Below we’ll provide you with practical tips to boost your serotonin levels while also enhancing your overall happiness during the winter months.
What is Serotonin? Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in mood regulation. It helps to stabilise mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. Low serotonin levels are linked to various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, fatigue, and irritability.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) For some, winter brings more than just chilly weather. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, often in winter. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating. Understanding serotonin’s role can help you find effective ways to cope.
Increase Sunlight Exposure
To boost serotonin levels during winter, it’s essential to increase your exposure to sunlight. Natural sunlight is known to enhance serotonin production. Make a point to spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even if it’s cloudy. On particularly dreary days, consider using a light therapy lamp for about 20-30 minutes each morning. These lamps mimic natural sunlight and can be especially beneficial for those who find it hard to get outside during the winter months.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Practising mindfulness and meditation can significantly enhance your mental health during winter. Mindfulness practices, including meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being. Start with just a few minutes each day to cultivate a peaceful mindset.
Incorporate Regular Exercise
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can also be a powerful mood booster. Physical activity increases the production of serotonin and other feel-good hormones. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Activities such as brisk walking, yoga, and dancing can elevate serotonin levels significantly. If you struggle to find motivation during the colder months, consider joining a local gym or group class to help keep you accountable.
Focus on Diet
Diet plays a crucial role in serotonin production as well. Certain foods can help support this neurotransmitter’s levels. Incorporate foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs, nuts, and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and flaxseeds are also beneficial. Complex carbohydrates, like whole grains and fruits, help facilitate serotonin synthesis, making them excellent additions to your winter diet. Try out comforting recipes that feature these ingredients, such as a hearty porridge topped with nuts and berries or a warm bowl of quinoa with vegetables.
Consider Supplements (with Caution)
If you’re struggling with low serotonin levels, some supplements may provide additional support. Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics have been shown to help improve mood. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for you.
Stay Socially Connected
Maintaining social connections is vital for mental well-being during winter. Organising gatherings with friends or family, whether it’s a cosy dinner party or a virtual game night, helps to strengthen relationships and lift spirits. Strengthening your “hostess game” can make these gatherings even more enjoyable. Plan themed nights, cook together or host a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share.
This plum cake is a perfect dessert for autumn and winter gatherings. Naturally sweetened with applesauce and maple syrup, it brings out the warm, rich flavours of ripe plums without added sugar. Moist, comforting, and subtly spiced, this cake is ideal for sharing with friends and family around the table. Not only does it satisfy sweet cravings, but it also offers a wholesome twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour or oat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)
Wet Ingredients:
2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan version)
1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce (for natural sweetness and moisture)
1/4 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional for a citrusy aroma)
Natural Sweetener:
1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey (skip honey for a vegan version)
Plums:
4-5 ripe plums, halved and pitted (cut into quarters if large)
Instructions:
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, whole wheat or oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together eggs (or flax eggs), applesauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and lemon/orange zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Add Natural Sweetener:
Fold in the maple syrup or honey until it’s well incorporated into the batter.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange the plum halves (or quarters) on top, pressing them gently into the batter.
Bake:
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown on top.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Plan Future Activities
In addition to health-related strategies, incorporating lifestyle tips can greatly enhance your happiness during the winter months. One effective way to boost your mood is to plan future activities that you can look forward to. Booking a holiday can create excitement and anticipation, giving you something positive to focus on as the colder months drag on. Whether it’s a tropical escape or a cosy cabin retreat, having plans can significantly boost your mood. Similarly, setting personal goals for the winter months, such as starting a new hobby or learning a new skill, can provide motivation and a sense of purpose.
Create a Cosy Atmosphere
Creating a cosy atmosphere in your home is another simple yet effective way to enhance your winter experience. Transform your living space into a welcoming haven by using warm lighting, soft blankets, and scented candles. This cosy environment invites relaxation and comfort during long winter evenings. Host movie nights or cosy reading sessions with friends or family to make the most of your time indoors, and consider trying themed gatherings or potlucks to encourage participation.
Engage in Creative Activities
Engaging in creative activities can also provide a much-needed boost to your mood. Hobbies such as painting, crafting, or cooking can serve as excellent outlets for self-expression and joy. Experimenting with new recipes or DIY projects can spark creativity and provide a sense of accomplishment. Joining a local class or online community centred around a creative interest can foster a sense of connection and support during the winter months. Create Academy have some wonderful online arts and crafts courses where you can learn anything from botanical painting, upholstery, floristry and even how to make your very own hand-sewn lampshades.
Explore Nature
Exploring nature is another fantastic way to combat the winter blues. Even in winter, nature can be refreshing and invigorating. Bundle up and take winter walks or hikes to appreciate the beauty of the season. Look for local parks or nature reserves that offer winter activities, such as snowshoeing or ice skating, to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Volunteer
Lastly, consider the positive impact of volunteering. Helping others can significantly boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. Look for opportunities to volunteer at local charities or community organisations. Engaging in acts of kindness not only benefits those in need but also enhances your own sense of fulfilment and happiness.
If you find that low serotonin levels persist despite trying various strategies, it might be time to seek professional help. Talking to a mental health professional can provide additional support and strategies tailored to your needs.
The 1911 Brasserie at The Imperial has a lot of big shoes to fill – this place has been known to serve up a mix of elegance and tradition, and now it’s added a fresh, surprising Autumn twist. So, with its new Autumn Menu, 1911 isn’t just doing European classics or Indian-inspired dishes. Instead, it’s bringing them together in a way that’s… unexpected. This isn’t just your average fusion; it’s a menu that takes risks, and for the most part, they pay off.
The Dishes That Will Make You Think Twice
Let’s start with the Regal Caesar Salad. When you think “Caesar Salad,” you’re probably imagining a pile of romaine with croutons and a generous dusting of parmesan. But here, we get a salad that trades traditional croutons for chickpea ones and adds roasted Achari paneer into the mix. The saffron garam masala dressing pulls it all together with a hit of spice that somehow feels right at home on a classic salad.
Chicken Lollipop and Caesar Salad
Next up is the Imperial Paneer and Sabudana Burger. This isn’t just a veggie burger – it’s an experiment in textures, flavours, and proportions. With a patty that’s wide enough to be a hand workout, it’s filled with sago pearls and paneer, which gives it a creamy-crunchy vibe that’s unlike anything you’d get in a regular burger. It’s filling, savoury, and has just enough spice to remind you where you are: the heart of Delhi. And then there’s the Imperial Schnitzel – a nod to European tradition, sure, but with a desi twist. Breaded chicken breast comes with lemon, cranberry sauce, and an anchovy hint. While it may not scream “India,” the complexity of flavours somehow feels more lively than your usual schnitzel experience.
The Imperial Paneer and Sabudana Burger
The Imperial Schnitzel
Going All-In On Indian Inspirations
For those who want a dish that’s unashamedly Indian, the Palak Badami Kofta is one to try. Think spinach and cottage cheese dumplings in a saffron and almond sauce – it’s like comfort food elevated. The Kebab & Tikki Sampler is another winner here, with a vegetarian platter that celebrates everything from beetroot and paneer to corn and cashew patties. Served with a trio of chutneys, it’s the kind of appetizer that doesn’t get old halfway through.
Palak Badami Kofta and Gucch Palak
Kebab & Tikki Sampler
The Imperial’s Bold Play on Fusion
But what really stands out in this lineup? Dishes like the Indian Triple Decker Sandwich (chicken tikka, masala omelette, and mint chutney) and the Rock Lobster Malabar Curry are crowd-pleasers. The sandwich plays it safe but still satisfies, and the lobster curry brings in some coastal Indian flavours that somehow feel right at home in a high-end brasserie setting. The Kaladi Cheese Quesadilla might raise some eyebrows – a traditionally Mexican favorite made with Jammu’s kaladi cheese? It’s fusion done right, in a way that makes you stop and think, “Why haven’t I tried this before?”
Worth The Trip?
1911’s new Autumn Menu is a bold move. It’s full of dishes that push boundaries. If you’re in the mood for something unique – something that blends The Imperial’s grandeur with an Indian heart and European sensibilities – it’s worth a try. Just don’t come expecting the classics to stay classic.
