Sunday 11 January 2009
Wednesday 7 January 2009
2009: Reflections and musings
I am not really one to make New Year resolutions, I don't believe in waiting until a certain time of year to do anything that will improve myself or my life. I do like to make plans and I have a fondness of organising things. Recently I have become very aware that life is a journey, rather than just where you bide your time till you find your destination. That would just be pointless and you wouldn't learn much. It helps being organised when juggling different interests (Yoga being the new one in the mix!). Here are some things that I want to do to this year.
Fit in fitness
Regular exercise is important, while I am imprisoned in this body I should make the most of it. I have started a 30 day trial of doing Yoga everyday. I need to get my breathing right, and balance my body and mind. It is proven that exercise reduces the risk of disease, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood and is something that I should do as I have Lupus. I am pretty good in the summer and walk a lot, however in the doom and gloom of winter I rarely do any physical activity. This is not good and must change, I also find I have more energy the more exercise I do. If I spend all day at my desk than I am shattered, therefore this one is an important goal in 2009.
This is a picture from a book I bought called Yoga: Mind & Body. By the London Sivananda Yoga Centre, the book is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in starting or expanding a yoga practice. The picture shows the Sun Salutation, the book also describes in detail the 12 basic asanas. It also includes information on relaxation, positive thinking, breathing, diet and meditation techniques. What I liked best was that the physical, mental and pranic benefits of each pose are included, as well as a discussion of common problems associated with each asana. It is through this book that I discover headstands are something I should avoid as I am at risk of glaucoma. I never thought to warn my Yoga teacher of my eye problems!
Have more fun
I have already become more peaceful by moving away from materialism. Having fun involves bringing balance to your body, mind and soul. I want to do lots of photography, paint and draw in my free time, I am really enjoying revisiting Krishna's pastimes whether by watching Mahabharata or reading the Srimad-Bhagavatam. I also plan to go to the theatre more and generally find activities that expand my horizons.
Be a lifelong student
I want to read as many books by the BBT as possible. I love reading and hopefully I will write more too. I would love to take an evening class in something once my schedule calms down.
Random acts of kindness
Life has been kind to me and I feel like I need to give something back. I prefer not to disclose what I do as this works best when done in secret. It is fun doing something kind with no motive at all. I was probably inspired by Amelie...
A Pilgrimage
I am feeling drawn to visiting India again, not family though- Vrindavan. I must go, I would love to see the magical places where Krishna spent his time on this planet. For those who are unaware Vrindavan is the heart of Braja-Mandala, the place of Lord Krisna's pastimes about 5000 years ago. I would love to see Radharani's birthplace too, and the Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple where my aunt is going this month. I hope to go there one day. Krishna is everywhere so even if darshan in India is not destined this year I am certain this year will be a conscious one.
Fit in fitness
Regular exercise is important, while I am imprisoned in this body I should make the most of it. I have started a 30 day trial of doing Yoga everyday. I need to get my breathing right, and balance my body and mind. It is proven that exercise reduces the risk of disease, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood and is something that I should do as I have Lupus. I am pretty good in the summer and walk a lot, however in the doom and gloom of winter I rarely do any physical activity. This is not good and must change, I also find I have more energy the more exercise I do. If I spend all day at my desk than I am shattered, therefore this one is an important goal in 2009.
This is a picture from a book I bought called Yoga: Mind & Body. By the London Sivananda Yoga Centre, the book is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in starting or expanding a yoga practice. The picture shows the Sun Salutation, the book also describes in detail the 12 basic asanas. It also includes information on relaxation, positive thinking, breathing, diet and meditation techniques. What I liked best was that the physical, mental and pranic benefits of each pose are included, as well as a discussion of common problems associated with each asana. It is through this book that I discover headstands are something I should avoid as I am at risk of glaucoma. I never thought to warn my Yoga teacher of my eye problems!
Have more fun
I have already become more peaceful by moving away from materialism. Having fun involves bringing balance to your body, mind and soul. I want to do lots of photography, paint and draw in my free time, I am really enjoying revisiting Krishna's pastimes whether by watching Mahabharata or reading the Srimad-Bhagavatam. I also plan to go to the theatre more and generally find activities that expand my horizons.
Be a lifelong student
I want to read as many books by the BBT as possible. I love reading and hopefully I will write more too. I would love to take an evening class in something once my schedule calms down.
Random acts of kindness
Life has been kind to me and I feel like I need to give something back. I prefer not to disclose what I do as this works best when done in secret. It is fun doing something kind with no motive at all. I was probably inspired by Amelie...
A Pilgrimage
I am feeling drawn to visiting India again, not family though- Vrindavan. I must go, I would love to see the magical places where Krishna spent his time on this planet. For those who are unaware Vrindavan is the heart of Braja-Mandala, the place of Lord Krisna's pastimes about 5000 years ago. I would love to see Radharani's birthplace too, and the Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple where my aunt is going this month. I hope to go there one day. Krishna is everywhere so even if darshan in India is not destined this year I am certain this year will be a conscious one.
Friday 2 January 2009
New artwork
I have been working on a new body of work which seems to have enveloped my Christmas holiday. Inspired by the dots that dance in front of my eyes after glancing at the sun, as well as traditional bandhani patterns and the beauty of nature these mixed media pieces are now available to view on my website.
This piece of work is from the Rays of Light series (which seems to be expanding everyday). I have recently been blessed with constant inspiration, in the past when this happened I would begin work on many things and complete very few projects to my complete satisfaction. Whereas now it seems to be difficult to not complete my current work. This year seems to be promising me many things and I am happy to take whatever comes my way.
Many of the new works will soon be available to buy as prints directly from my website.
This piece of work is from the Rays of Light series (which seems to be expanding everyday). I have recently been blessed with constant inspiration, in the past when this happened I would begin work on many things and complete very few projects to my complete satisfaction. Whereas now it seems to be difficult to not complete my current work. This year seems to be promising me many things and I am happy to take whatever comes my way.
Many of the new works will soon be available to buy as prints directly from my website.
Friday 26 December 2008
A good Bollywood film...
The word Bollywood often conjures up images of brightly coloured outfits and scores of dancers following questionable dance moves. However last night I was pleasantly surprised by Ashutosh Gowariker's film Jodhaa Akbar. Released in February for Valentine's day this film features Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan.
This love story based in the sixteenth century revolves around a political marriage of convenience between Mughal emperor, Akbar, and Rajput princess, Jodhaa. I confess to not being very knowledgeable on the history that this film is based on, however I will say the disclaimer at the beginning says it all. This film is breathtaking beautiful and people should watch it as a film and not as a faithful representation of the Moghul love story.
Stories featuring Gujaratis or Rajputs are always close to my heart as it is a part of my ancestry (note to self: you are not the body...lol). This film had me gripped as each frame was like a work of art, and each song was woven beautifully into the story. Moghul emperor Akbar won the allegiance of many Rajputs, aided by this marriage to a Hindu princess. The story of their relationship is depicted with a tender touch, and both actors are wonderful in their respective roles. I cannot think of anyone else who'd do these roles such justice.
I was drawn to the beauty of the costumes, music and scenery, and a certain bhajan where Jodhaa prays to Govinda is the highlight of the film. The film has some funny parts and really good fight scenes. I was pleased to see that there wasn't much goriness in the small amount of violence shown. The film won some awards too: the 'Grand Pix award' at Golden Minbar, the Film Festival for Muslim Cinema and the 'Audience Award' at the 32nd São Paulo International Film Festival in Brazil. Hrithik Roshan, was awarded the Best Actor Award for his performance as Emperor Akbar. I am surprised Aishwarya hasn't won anything as she was brilliant too. It is a long film though- around fours hours so I am glad I didn't go to the cinema to see it!
This love story based in the sixteenth century revolves around a political marriage of convenience between Mughal emperor, Akbar, and Rajput princess, Jodhaa. I confess to not being very knowledgeable on the history that this film is based on, however I will say the disclaimer at the beginning says it all. This film is breathtaking beautiful and people should watch it as a film and not as a faithful representation of the Moghul love story.
Stories featuring Gujaratis or Rajputs are always close to my heart as it is a part of my ancestry (note to self: you are not the body...lol). This film had me gripped as each frame was like a work of art, and each song was woven beautifully into the story. Moghul emperor Akbar won the allegiance of many Rajputs, aided by this marriage to a Hindu princess. The story of their relationship is depicted with a tender touch, and both actors are wonderful in their respective roles. I cannot think of anyone else who'd do these roles such justice.
I was drawn to the beauty of the costumes, music and scenery, and a certain bhajan where Jodhaa prays to Govinda is the highlight of the film. The film has some funny parts and really good fight scenes. I was pleased to see that there wasn't much goriness in the small amount of violence shown. The film won some awards too: the 'Grand Pix award' at Golden Minbar, the Film Festival for Muslim Cinema and the 'Audience Award' at the 32nd São Paulo International Film Festival in Brazil. Hrithik Roshan, was awarded the Best Actor Award for his performance as Emperor Akbar. I am surprised Aishwarya hasn't won anything as she was brilliant too. It is a long film though- around fours hours so I am glad I didn't go to the cinema to see it!
Tuesday 23 December 2008
Baking day !
Today is my Mum's fiftieth birthday and to celebrate this momentous occasion I have decided to grace the kitchen with my presence. All jokes aside I rarely experiment with my culinary skills (possibly the reason why I have very little flair in the cooking department).
Anyway I was not lacking in enthusiasm as I was dying to try out a carrot cake recipe that Jahnavi has recommended. I made it minus the nuts and raisins. As I also lack the ability to actually follow a recipe properly (I turn into my Mum when it comes to measuring and just kind of make it up as I go along) therefore mine is likely to be different to others who use this recipe. I figured as the oven was being used I may as well make some biscuits. I then remembered a lively girl tell me how much she loved fig biscuits and I thought I'd have some creative fun in the kitchen as I had been left to my own devices. "Quick warn the fire brigade!"... hmmmm my friends don't have much faith in me.
I started with the cake first and grated about three carrots. Now the recipe said three cups of grated carrots however it looked enough by eye, and I was too excited about making the cake. So 'that'll do'... I quickly mixed everything together...
Oh dear, I'm not even going to say what it looks like at this stage, ho hum...
I then stick it in the oven for 50 minutes. It comes out looking like a cake!
The cake has dipped a bit in the middle but that's no problem- I will disguise it with some decoration. Mum doesn't like icing, so I only dribble a little yoghurt fondant icing (basically just fondant icing sugar and greek yoghurt mixed together). I then create a little circle in the middle using dried pineapple chunks. Done!
The fig biscuits turned out well, however they were too crunchy for Mum. She kindly says they'll be great dipped in her morning chai. After offering the cake to Krishna I presented it with the biccies for Mum. The carrot cake is so scrumptious that Mum is looking forward to her friend visiting so she can offer her some! It isn't too sweet and has a nice and soft texture, not unlike the Jamaican Ginger cakes that are available. Next time I'll put more icing on it! I have definitely got the baking bug.
Fig biscuits
Ingredients
21/2 cups plain flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
125g butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup icing sugar
1 teaspoon oil
1 spoon ground peanuts
1 chopped chunk of crystallised ginger
3 finely chopped dried figs
Preheat oven to gas mark 4 (around 180 degrees). Mix the flour, baking powder and salt in bowl. Mix butter and sugar until fluffy, then add oil. Add flour, nuts, chopped figs and ginger. Add a little water it it is dry. Clingfilm dough and stick in fridge for ten minutes. Roll out dough and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes as desired. Dust with a little brown sugar and bake for 30 minutes. I made them a bit too thick so gave them an extra ten minutes (soemthing to learn from next time!).
Anyway I was not lacking in enthusiasm as I was dying to try out a carrot cake recipe that Jahnavi has recommended. I made it minus the nuts and raisins. As I also lack the ability to actually follow a recipe properly (I turn into my Mum when it comes to measuring and just kind of make it up as I go along) therefore mine is likely to be different to others who use this recipe. I figured as the oven was being used I may as well make some biscuits. I then remembered a lively girl tell me how much she loved fig biscuits and I thought I'd have some creative fun in the kitchen as I had been left to my own devices. "Quick warn the fire brigade!"... hmmmm my friends don't have much faith in me.
I started with the cake first and grated about three carrots. Now the recipe said three cups of grated carrots however it looked enough by eye, and I was too excited about making the cake. So 'that'll do'... I quickly mixed everything together...
Oh dear, I'm not even going to say what it looks like at this stage, ho hum...
I then stick it in the oven for 50 minutes. It comes out looking like a cake!
The cake has dipped a bit in the middle but that's no problem- I will disguise it with some decoration. Mum doesn't like icing, so I only dribble a little yoghurt fondant icing (basically just fondant icing sugar and greek yoghurt mixed together). I then create a little circle in the middle using dried pineapple chunks. Done!
The fig biscuits turned out well, however they were too crunchy for Mum. She kindly says they'll be great dipped in her morning chai. After offering the cake to Krishna I presented it with the biccies for Mum. The carrot cake is so scrumptious that Mum is looking forward to her friend visiting so she can offer her some! It isn't too sweet and has a nice and soft texture, not unlike the Jamaican Ginger cakes that are available. Next time I'll put more icing on it! I have definitely got the baking bug.
Fig biscuits
Ingredients
21/2 cups plain flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
125g butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup icing sugar
1 teaspoon oil
1 spoon ground peanuts
1 chopped chunk of crystallised ginger
3 finely chopped dried figs
Preheat oven to gas mark 4 (around 180 degrees). Mix the flour, baking powder and salt in bowl. Mix butter and sugar until fluffy, then add oil. Add flour, nuts, chopped figs and ginger. Add a little water it it is dry. Clingfilm dough and stick in fridge for ten minutes. Roll out dough and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes as desired. Dust with a little brown sugar and bake for 30 minutes. I made them a bit too thick so gave them an extra ten minutes (soemthing to learn from next time!).
Saturday 20 December 2008
The path
A fleeting glance fills us all with wonder,
splendour and beauty beyond our comprehension.
Our minds are always jumping
from one thing to another.
Often a curse, leading away from the ultimate destination.
Oh Lord if I ever ask for anything
let it be to ask for mercy,
and purify my consciousness
so it is focused on You
and nothing else.
splendour and beauty beyond our comprehension.
Our minds are always jumping
from one thing to another.
Often a curse, leading away from the ultimate destination.
Oh Lord if I ever ask for anything
let it be to ask for mercy,
and purify my consciousness
so it is focused on You
and nothing else.
Sunday 14 December 2008
New Gokul- Cow protection centre
Now here's a good cause that needs to be passed on to animal lovers and Vaishnavas alike. New Gokul is possibly the only place in the UK that cows and bulls are treated as the sacred animals they are. In the UK more than 3 million cows and bulls are killed every year, and their lives previous to being slaughtered are appalling. Nearly all young bulls are killed in the first couple of years, as naive farmers do not see the value of these strong animals.
As the Hare Krishna temple has over 60 acres of pastures they plan to increase the herd from 33 to 60 animals. The cows have a dairy and milking parlour with pens close by for the calves who suckle their mothers. New Gokul needs more funding as the cows and bulls need much larger pens, the bulls need their own Ox Power House with a permanent treadmill and machinery and also new facilites must allow visitors to see all the aspects of a working goshalla safely.
New Gokul will practically demonstrate how to care for cows and bulls, show how to treat them so that they are happy and how how important all their gifts are to society. If you want to spend your money on something worthwhile donate to this worthy cause.
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