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If you’re looking to add a modern twist to your saris, take a cue from Shilpa Shetty Kundra. The Baazigar actor often gravitates toward fusion saris that marry traditional craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes.

Recently, she stepped out in an ensemble by Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika: a floral crystal and pearl bralette paired with a black draped sari featuring a thigh-high slit. Gold embroidery traced its way from her shoulder, across the front, adding a textural element. Oversized, multicoloured statement earrings complemented her bralette. Her signature blow-dried waves and a pair of black and gold leather heels by Aquazzura added finishing touches.

We know that high cortisol levels aren’t exactly doing us any favours. And you don’t need a PhD in hormones to have picked that up somewhere between a stress headache and your third coffee. We’re all cycling between various de-stressing techniques to lower cortisol—and for good reason.

“Cortisol rises in response to demanding situations or perceived threats. Our body is designed to release it as needed, but problems arise when levels stay chronically elevated—which can impact the immune system, sleep, and mood,” says psychologist Pilar Guerra Escudero.

To get a sense of how damaging excess cortisol can be, consider this explanation from Dr Vicente Mera, an anti-ageing medicine expert at SHA Wellness and author of Young at Any Age (HarperCollins): “Cortisol reduces immunity as severely as treatments given to transplant or autoimmune patients. That’s why latent infections like herpes, or more serious ones like pneumonia in smokers, often appear during times of stress,” he writes.

Just as we aim to lower cortisol, we also benefit from boosting our so-called ‘happy hormones’— serotonin, which helps stabilise mood, and endorphins, which ease pain and increase feelings of euphoria. And while meditation and massages are tried-and-true methods, there are everyday habits that can quietly do the same heavy lifting.

“Physical activities like swimming or tai chi can be even more effective than meditation when it comes to lowering cortisol—especially if meditation feels frustrating or hard to sustain over time,” explains Guerra Escudero. “While meditation has been shown to reduce cortisol, if it causes stress or resistance, the benefits may backfire. Physical activity, on the other hand, offers a more natural release — it distracts without requiring mental effort, encouraging spontaneous disconnection from stressful thoughts.”

Below, five daily rituals that help lower cortisol while boosting feel-good hormones.

Laugh a little (or a lot)

“The best remedy against adversity is always a sense of humour,” explains Dr Mera. “Taking life with a sense of humour is not only fun, but it also reduces cortisol levels and anti-inflammatory substances.” So go ahead, watch that rom-com or, better yet, giggle with your friends. Laughter sometimes really is the best medicine, flooding the body with serotonin and endorphins.

Walk in nature (AKA Shinrin Yoku)

Sitting for hours at a stretch doesn’t just sap energy, it can tank your mood. “According to several studies, people who spend more than 8 hours a day sitting are 65% more likely to experience chronic fatigue and alterations in their mood,” says Dr Ángela Llaneza, gynaecologist and medical director of the Antiaging Medical Institute. Her recommendation? Forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, a Japanese practice of spending time in nature, particularly forests. “Walking in nature for 20 minutes can reduce cortisol by 16%, promoting mental calm.”

Eat dark chocolate

Rich, dark, and ideally over 85% cocoa. “Not only is it a pleasure for the palate, but it helps release endorphins, the hormones of happiness,” says Yaraseth del Castillo, nutritionist at Instituto Medico Antiaging. A square or two can go a long way.

Stretch (strike a power pose)

“Standing up, stretching your arms, or simply shifting your posture can lower stress and boost confidence,” says Beatriz Crespo, PhD in Medicine and High Sports Performance and author of Healthy Microhabits. A Harvard study even links ‘power poses’ with improved self-assurance. Stretching also helps ease muscle tension — and, you guessed it, lower cortisol.

Swim

Swimming is one of the best workouts you can do for your brain, body, and mood. “A Mayo Clinic study revealed that swimming reduces cortisol levels by 30 per cent and improves sleep quality,” notes Dr Llaneza. “Plus, it is a low-impact activity that promotes relaxation and improves blood circulation.”

Some also do it to assimilate into a new society. For Pritesh Bhatia, a humanities student in Florence—crowned the most walkable city in the world—unfamiliar paths unexpectedly led to a sense of belonging. “When I first moved here from Mumbai, loneliness weighed heavily on me. Making friends was never my forte. The language barrier, cultural differences and my introverted personality only made it harder.” Florence’s cobblestone streets were so inviting that it was impossible for him to stay cooped up in his room. “Every day, I’d meander aimlessly. Before I knew it, I was devouring pizzas by Ponte Vecchio, exchanging stories with buskers and soaking in more Renaissance history than I ever did at university.”

Now, whenever I get the chance to pull the brakes on work, I travel to other cities to walk. Not to hike, not to join a walking tour, but for the simple purpose of experiencing the rhythm of a street, the freedom of moving at my own pace and the small moments through the eyes of a pedestrian. I journey not to scale mountains or dive into oceans. Instead, I search for sidewalks to walk on.

Crowds of people on the streets of Vienna.

Getty Images

Cosmic tip: Steadily but surely forge your path ahead.

Thunder and lightning may have struck in the past but here you are – moving forward faster than the speed of light – at least in your mental realms where ideas, inspirations and solutions seem to appear out of nowhere. Thank the cosmic forces for giving you this breather and make the most of your time and energy to transition through these waters with rose tinted glasses and a tangible action plan. Remember while the world may have caved in, you still survived and that is commendable.

Cosmic tip: Return to innocence once again.

Balance, patience, moderation have been your themes lately, Virgo. And although now may feel like a time where you really don’t know which way the wind will blow you, remember that your inner circle – the ones that anchor you, the ones that understand your silence and the ones that really hold you together, are always around, your celestial friends included. Withdraw within for a moment and then emerge and communicate with a sharp sense of clarity. Share your ideas, stay alert towards any new pieces of information floating about in our space and then slowly process it all to see the larger picture.

Cosmic tip: When the Gods give, learn to receive.

If you feel like you wish to walk away, but are unable to – this is your signal from the cosmos, Libra. It is not easy to get out of quicksand, but it is also not impossible if you simple make an effort to find an abhor that helps you pull yourself out. Slow, but focussed movements in the direction of your choice may just be the turning point in your life. Instead of waiting for your time to arrive or feeling disheartened by the snail paced progress of things, remember that the seed germinates at it’s own time and there is a lot that goes on beneath the surface before you see the plant shoot out towards the sky. You are that plant.

Cosmic tip: Plan ahead but don’t be a victim to timelines.

Your life’s dilemmas and stresses lie in healing your mother-wound, Scorpio. Some of you may have had a stressful relationship with your mother figure and some may have wanted to be loved in a slightly different manner. Now is not the time to power through and turn a blind eye to your recurring emotional challenges and constant fears. It is a time where you get to sift through and choose wisely. Remember that at a soul level, we can only evolve if we experience the opposite of what we wish to master. So if your soul’s growth lesson is freedom – only when you face constriction in some way can you understand how to master freedom and fly. So whatever you wish was different in your life, today is the day to objectively try and assess how it has helped you grow and what it has taught you – you will find your strength and peace in the answers you find.

Cosmic tip: Bless yourself and your loved ones as they only love the way they know how to love.

A few weeks in, I noticed another shift—my skin. Acne-prone and perpetually dehydrated, it began to feel calmer, clearer.

“Navel oiling deeply nourishes Rasa Dhatu (nutrient plasma), preventing dryness, pigmentation, and acne,” Dr Chatterjee says. “Additionally, it detoxifies the body to eliminate toxins and enhances circulation.”

Dr Shukla adds that it also “supports reproductive health and relieves menstrual discomfort. Some people believe it could help cyst reductions for those with PCOS or fibroids. However, in my clinical experience, I have not seen a significant improvement in these conditions.”

Even the castor oil itself plays a key role. “Castor oil (Eranda Taila) is a powerful detoxifier and Vata-Kapha pacifier, as per Ayurveda,” says Chatterjee. “Some of its key benefits include relief from constipation, reduced inflammation, boosts lymphatic drainage, and deeply hydrates the skin.” She recommends using a cold-pressed, organic, hexane-free version for purity.

Modern science agrees with the ancient view, says Dr Chatterjee. “Modern research supports the Ayurvedic view that the navel is an absorption point due to its dense network of blood vessels and lymphatics,” says Dr Chatterjee.

And while scrolling through wellness reels, I also came across influencers massaging castor oil onto their stomachs and securing it with a heat pack. A slightly different practice. “While navel oiling primarily works through deep absorption, targeting Vata imbalances, digestion, and systemic detoxification, a full abdominal massage (Udara Abhyanga) focuses more on lymphatic drainage, gut motility, and external relaxation,” explains Dr Chatterjee. “Topical application in the form of an abdominal pack is more beneficial in conditions of abdominal pain or dysmenorrhea,” adds Dr Shukla.

With the internet launching a new wellness trend every five minutes, scepticism is a survival skill. But this one came backed with something rare: Ayurvedic roots, scientific logic, and enough personal wins to make me keep going. And unlike some of the more elaborate trends, this one is low-lift, low-cost, and surprisingly effective.

So, did the ancient technique of navel oiling live up to its skin-glowing, gut-soothing reputation? My gut says yes.

Also read:

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Fusion wear is the glorious confluence of two contrasting worlds, that is traditional Indian clothing and modern Western styles. It is an amalgamation of the rich cultural heritage of Indian Mens Clothing with innovations in trends to create versatile garments that speak of style as well as tradition. This combination of cultures is trendy and provides an avenue for creative expression, making it a preeminent favourite for men who like to personify both their heritage as well as a feel for global trends.

The definition encompasses innumerable possibilities. In fusion wear, a Kurta Pajama for Men, a Mens Kurta, or a Nehru Jacket-the traditional loose outfit can easily mix with Western fashion for an effortlessly chic style that is modern yet traditional. Nihal Fashions boasts a huge Indian Mens Clothing collection that bears the mark of the old and the new. We are all set to explore how you can make fusion wear work for you.

Combining Men with a Modern Edge: Kurta Pajama

The Mens Kurta Pajama, an extremely iconic part of Indian Mens Clothing, mixes so beautifully with Western influences in something with that new-age contemporary feel in fusion style. So pairing an old-style Mens Kurta with well-fitted jeans or chinos could result in an informal mode. This contrast of sleek straight-cut kurta lines with jeans gives one a casual flair loaded with style. 

A Nehru Jacket is a truly stylish way to add to this ensemble; it works great with a Kurta Pajama for Men. The Nehru Jacket, with its structured clean lines, tends to better support the soft silhouettes of the loose kurta in all their glory. Pairing it with slim-fit trousers or even a well-fitted blazer adds some stylish Western influence while nonetheless keeping in spirit with the Indian ensemble. This look is easily converted from a daytime lunch to a casual evening get-together.

For the more daring, consider a graphic tee to be worn under the Kurta Pajama for Men. This modern Indian fusion garment reflects a lot about personality and individuality. Finish off the ensemble with sneakers to maintain a simple yet stylish look that will work for informal gatherings or a day out with friends. 

The Power of a Nehru Jacket in Fusion Wear

At the same time, the Nehru Jacket becomes the most representative of Indian menswear and of much importance in fusion wear. It is traditionally worn over the kurta or as part of much formal attire. This versatile piece cab well be transformed into a Westernized getup. 

For a more modern approach, wear the Nehru jacket paired with a fresh white shirt, correct-fitting trousers, and loafers for a semi-casual contemporary look. The Nehru jacket, always lends a great formality to the contrasting casual western style. Comfortably switch your shirt for a T-shirt, and stand out casually and stylishly.

Balanced colour combinations are a necessity. It’s best to keep your Nehru Jacket in neutral shades of beige, navy, or charcoal grey, so it turns easily into a lot of Western styles. The best part of any fusion wear is that it stands distinguished by grace and heritage, whether on the occasion of a wedding, at a party, or during a more formal event.

The Nooks and Crannies of Mixing Indian and Western Fabrics

The type of fabric makes all the difference in merging the traditions and modernity of the styles. The fabrics used to make classic Indian Mens Clothing, such as cotton, silk, and khadi, are themselves a gallery of inspiration for Western designs. Think of mixing and matching a silk Mens Kurta with leather trousers or a denim jacket for a furious statement that cohesively melds into the best of both worlds.

For another more subtle option, a cotton Kurta Pajama for Men can be paired with casual modern button-up shirts in soft fabrics like linen or chambray to create a way-out and elegant demeanour. Adding the different fabrics gives a sense of movement to the garments yet, at the same time, will preserve the integrity of an imbalanced functional yet unique outfit.

Footwear and Accessories: The Final Touch 

The right shoes can make or break the fusion outfit. Oftentimes, Indian Mens Clothing matches with moccasins, juttis, or sandals; if there is an inclination toward modern, sleek loafers, boots, or even clean sneakers can work magic with your Kurta Pajama for Men or Mens Kurta. The main aim is to balance comfort and style; that is, equally complementing Indian and Western elements of your outfit. 

Accessories also tie the entire look together. A chic watch, understated bracelets, or even a classic scarf will take a fusion look up a notch. For instance, pairing a Nehru Jacket with a pocket square adds some style, while a leather belt on your Kurta Pajama for Men will add that polished finish.

Nihal Fashions: Your Fusion Wear Destination

At Nihal Fashions, we specialize in offering a diverse range of Indian Mens Clothing that blends traditional elements with modern trends. Whether you’re looking for the perfect Kurta Pajama for Men, a timeless Mens Kurta, or a stunning Nehru Jacket, we provide high-quality, stylish garments that reflect both heritage and contemporary flair. Our collection ensures that men can embrace their cultural roots while keeping up with global fashion trends.

What sets Nihal Fashions apart is our commitment to offering a wide selection of customizable styles, catering to every taste and occasion. With our attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and a focus on comfort and quality, we help our customers create their perfect fusion look.

For more information and to explore our collection, visit Nihal Fashions.

In conclusion, fusion wear offers an exciting way to experiment with Indian Mens Clothing while embracing modern trends. Whether you’re pairing a Kurta Pajama for Men with Western elements or making a Nehru Jacket your statement piece, the fusion of traditional and contemporary styles allows for endless creativity. With the right blend, you’ll not only look stylish but also showcase your unique sense of fashion.

The full moon in Libra rises on April 13. This “micromoon” appears smaller than average, due to the moon being farther away from Earth than usual. Since the moon is in apogee to our planet, the ocean waves won’t be as intense, but the emotions we feel will be.

Typically, the full moon in Libra focuses on maintaining balance in relationships and finding peace within ourselves. Astrologically, this full moon urges us to take action. Mars, which is in Cancer, activates the moon, pushing us to make decisions about our future. Since Mercury and Venus’s backspin have made us indecisive, we are ready to move forward (Mercury retrograde ended on 7 April, and Venus retrograde completes its journey shortly after the full moon).

On the same day, Venus, who’s been moonwalking since 1 March, turns direct in Pisces. This will impact our lives immensely since Libra is a sign that Venus rules. Therefore, we’ll be able to gain clarity about the direction of our relationships. The future is unwritten, but now is the time to plant seeds. Listen to your intuition.

Aries

You’re in the mood for love, but fear keeps you from expressing your innermost feelings to your significant other. You must speak up and let your partner or crush in in order to cultivate the connection you crave. Get out of your head and try asserting yourself and demonstrating affection. Don’t hold back on the romance factor.

Taurus

Detox your life. Kicking unhealthy habits and ways of thinking is pivotal under this lunation. Try to establish positive daily activities to promote a calming and relaxing environment in your home. If you find switching up your existing routine tricky, note that progress takes time and striving for a better balance now will help you flourish and grow in the future.

Gemini

You’re known as the life of the party, so get ready to embrace your role in this period. Maybe it’s a night of dancing followed by stargazing over this full moon weekend? Consider social activities that will suit your romantic and playful mood.

Cancer

There is nothing wrong with a yearning to hide away in your cocoon. Some TLC will allow you to decompress and relieve the stress you’re feeling from work. Watch old movies and order comfort food to get the vibe right. When you return to public life on Monday, you’ll feel revived.

Leo

Pick up a book or take an online class that has the potential to elevate your mind to greatness. The more food you feed your brain, the easier it’ll be to understand matters from different perspectives. You will feel like a person of the world who can transcend the universe’s rhythms through knowledge and insight.

Virgo

Lately, you’ve felt like no one is giving you enough attention. Since you’ve been seeking acceptance from outside sources, the full moon in Libra is a chance to gain confidence by looking inward. Know that you are a strong and amazing person who doesn’t need the adoration of others, only love from yourself.

Libra

More often than not, you aim to make everyone around you happy before focusing on your own needs. Dropping the tendency to please people in order to do what matters most to you is a key theme of the full moon for your sign. Realising that you should be selfish at times changes how you treat yourself.

Scorpio

Release the emotions that are weighing on your heart. If you feel like crying, sleeping or sage cleansing, do it. Getting rid of stale energy that’s permeating your aura is going to recharge your body, mind and spirit. You’ll be amazed by the fresh flow that positivity brings.

Sagittarius

Dreaming the impossible dream is a full moon activity we should all get behind. Visualise your intentions by meditating on what you wish to bring into your life in an effort to breathe energy into your goals. Remember to go big or go home when it comes to your aspirations.

Capricorn

One professional door closes and another opens. A career opportunity you can’t refuse is coming, but you’re unsure about leaving your current position. Weigh the pros and cons to see what makes the most sense to you. Even though you’ll probably take the job, it’s always good to think things through before doing anything impulsive.

Aquarius

The grass might seem greener on the other side, but it isn’t. Don’t take the beautiful things you have for granted. Appreciate what you have to usher in still more abundance and prosperity. You’ll be able to attain your heart’s desires if you find solid grounding within yourself.

Pisces

Intimacy could heighten in your relationships if you are willing to share secrets and let others in. Although revealing the skeletons in your closet and showing your raw emotions may be scary, it’ll be worth it in the end for what you get back in closeness to people you care about.

This article first appeared on Vogue.co.uk

The eyes are our window to the world, and yet, we often take eye health for granted—especially if we’ve been blessed with perfect 20/20 vision. But like any other organ, our eyes are vulnerable to wear and tear, especially in today’s screen-heavy world. From smartphones to laptops, modern life isn’t exactly eye-friendly. The good news is that a nourishing diet can go a long way in protecting our vision and delaying age-related degeneration.

It’s not just carrots (though they’re great, too)—many foods are rich in eye-loving nutrients like beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C, A and E, and minerals such as zinc. These antioxidants and good fats help shield our eyes from conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome. We’ve rounded up ten vision-boosting foods to add to your weekly grocery list.

Sweet potatoes

Carrots get all the credit for being eye-health heroes, but sweet potatoes might just edge them out. Packed with beta-carotene—a precursor to vitamin A—they help maintain corneal health. One medium sweet potato delivers over 150% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Roast them with olive oil and rosemary, or whip up a velvety soup with ginger, carrots and turmeric.

Green leafy vegetables

Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, but also lettuce, chard, kale, and turnip greens, are loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that filter blue light, protect eye cells from oxidation and sunlight, and slow diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Enjoy them in salads with avocado and walnuts, sautéed gently, or steamed to preserve their nutrients.

Eggs

Another excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin? The egg yolk. Eggs are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are a wonderful ally in preventing maculopathy, a degenerative disease of the retina. Those who consume 2-4 eggs a week are 49 percent less likely to contract the disease than those who do not, according to a study conducted by the Westmead Institute for Medical Research in Australia. Scramble them for a protein-packed breakfast or go the shakshuka route for a satisfying dinner.

Salmon

Omega-3s are critical for eye health, and salmon contains plenty: indulge, if not every day like Victoria Beckham, at least a couple of times a week. Salmon is rich in these anti-inflammatory fats, as are sardines, mackerel, trout, and tuna. Enjoy it grilled, pan-seared, or even raw—as sashimi—with wasabi and shiso for a refreshing twist.

Almonds

This nutrient-dense snack delivers a hefty dose of vitamin E—about 26mg per 100 grams. Vitamin E helps neutralise free radicals that cause oxidative stress, a contributor to eye damage, especially in polluted environments or for smokers. Snack on them whole, or sprinkle toasted almonds over muesli, salads, risottos or hearty soups.

Blueberries

Blueberries are a superfood in their own right and are beneficial for the whole body. They’re rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants from the flavonoid family that can increase circulation in the eye and protect and regenerate the retinal cells responsible for night vision. Toss them into your protein shake, enjoy them with Greek yoghurt, or stir them into a chia seed pudding.

Peppers

Red, yellow, orange—whatever the hue, bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which supports the health of both the eye and the optic nerve. They also contain zeaxanthin, vitamin A, and vitamin E. Eat them raw to retain their nutrients—dip them in hummus, guacamole, or baba ganoush for extra flavour.

Dark chocolate

As if you needed another excuse: dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) contains flavonoids that enhance blood flow to the eyes and support the health of the cornea and lens. Have a small piece after meals, or crumble some into Greek yoghurt for a sweet-yet-nutritious treat.

Oysters

Zinc is crucial for maintaining retinal health and, as per some reports, may help delay macular degeneration, especially when combined with antioxidants. Oysters are one of the richest sources. If oysters aren’t on your menu, try other zinc-rich foods like poultry, lean meat, legumes, nuts and seeds.

Parsley

Often dismissed as just a garnish, parsley actually contains eye-protective compounds like beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. These help increase macular pigment density—low levels of which are linked to a higher risk of age-related eye diseases. Add a generous handful to smoothies, sprinkle over salads, pasta or fish dishes, or mix into ceviche for a fresh, herbaceous kick.

This story first appeared on Vogue.it

Read also:

Yes, dark chocolate is indeed a health food, according to an expert

Why eye health is the next wellness frontier and what you should be doing about yours

According to facial reflexology, a targetted face massage can boost overall wellness

Chime in a little music in your life, Aquarius. Do something to shake off that energy – dance, spin around, sing or simply stretch. Put on your favourite tunes and tap your feet to the rhythm. Something has either come to a close or will soon be ending – and while it may feel like an uncertain time – you can smell better times ahead. Your intuition tells you that there is hope and lightheartedness in the near future, and all that you have shared, expressed or experienced is about to find it’s meaning in closure and healing. For now, tap into that inner zen and let your inner harmony flow.

Cosmic tip: Remember who you are and stay tuned within.