Privy To Skin Care With Seer Secrets...

In ancient India, there was the belief of 'Simple Living, High Thinking'. When it comes to self-care, nothing above and beyond this belief is required. 

It is known for a fact that Indian scriptures hold a treasure trove of knowledge and our seers knew more then, than we can even imagine now. Our sages have been with us in spirit, through the documentation of their wisdom and our belief in customs and traditions propagated by them through the ages. 

In today’s progressive era, life has become more stressful and deep sleep has slowly become a difficulty to earn and not an ease what it should have been. We are short of time on our hands and hence end up being hamsters in wheels - the ones that end up enduring with life and not living it leisurely. 

In all this pacing, we forget to care for ourselves and eventually, are drained of our energy. For this very reason, when it comes to caring for and nourishing my skin, I rely on Seer Secrets - a brand that relies on formulations documented by the sages - the ones that give 100 percent results. 

Based on rare herbs and extracts documented by Indian ascetics over thousands of years, Seer Secrets is a brand that boasts of a wholesome range of skin care and body care products, accompanied by wellness and healing oils and herbal teas too. 

What's more is that their products are naturally derived, non-toxic, hypoallergenic, vegan, gluten-free, biodegradable, free from triclosan, sulfates (SLS, SLES, SCS), formaldehyde, salicylates, parabens, phosphates, MEA, DEA, TEA, petroleum-based ingredients or dyes, and never tested on animals. 

Sourced from and made in India, the product range at Seer Secrets is a homage to the Vocal for Local campaign advocated by our Hon'ble PM too. 

A couple of weeks back, I received my hamper of goodness from Seer Secrets comprising of six products meant for facial care. I took my own sweet time to try the products at ease before putting out the review. 

• PHYTO-ACTIVE FACE DEFENSE CREAM - NONI GUGGUL SOY PHYTOSTEROL -  TREATMENT FOR ANTI AGEING

This product works on brightening and smoothening the skin, while also being a collagen booster that helps to improve the elasticity of the skin and imparts a youthful look. Also, phytosterols work as agents of skin hydration. 

As the name suggest 'Face Defense' so that's exactly how this cream works to provide protection and regeneration to delicate skin post rigorous exposure to the harsh environment. 

The texture of the cream is smooth and its absorption into the skin is effortless, without any trace of stickiness or heaviness. 

Have a look at the short video I've made to gain an understanding of the formulation and usage of the Face Defense Cream. 

• PINK GRAPEFRUIT, RATANJOT & SAFFRON - LIGHTENING & BRIGHTENING AGE CORRECTIVE SERUM - FOR PIGMENTATION

This serum is a work of antioxidants derived from plant extracts that work to to visibly improve the appearance of wrinkles, dryness, and restore vibrancy to the skin. 

Infused with five citrus essential oils for improving visible signs of aging, Ratanjot improves the appearance of dull, uneven skin tone while Saffron restores hydration to dry, sun damaged skin. 

Ideally suited to aid dry skin, this serum is apt to be used both AM and PM, whilst being followed by a broad spectrum sunscreen post day time use. Moreover it's best to conduct a patch test on inner elbow and observe for a few minutes before directly applying the serum on the face. 

Watch the short video I've made to gain an understanding of the formulation and usage of the Age Corrective Serum. 

• WHEATGRASS, SPIRULINA & MORINGA - GREEN INTENSE REPAIR MASQUE - FOR DETOXIFICATION & TREATMENT OF DARK CIRCLES 

Extracting the goodness of phytonutrients contained in a single-celled Blue Green Algae named Spirulina, this masque comes to the rescue of dead skin cells. 

The repair and regenerative action provides maximum hydration to the skin, while inflammation and eliminating bacteria generating toxins. 

Have a look at the video below where I explain the usage of this masque. 

• SABDARIFFA RED CLAY MASK - TREATMENT FOR DARK SPOTS

This gel is a multi-tasker in terms of being loaded with Iron Oxide and naturally sourced Vitamin C that cleanses, detoxifies, and exfoliates the skin by working on clogged skin pores and eliminating blackheads. 

 

By reducing puffiness and paleness, this gel works to treat a multitude of skin issues. By repairing damaged skin tissues, a youthful look is restored. 

Have a look at the video below to understand the benefits of this Pore Minimizing Clay Gel. 

• MOTHER OF PEARL & VOLCANIC ASH - EXFOLIATOR FOR DEAD AND DULL SKIN CELLS

Enriched with Mother of Pearl which is a natural exfoliating scrub, this scrub is expertly formulated with Niacinamide to tackle the signs of ageing, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation and restore the sun-damaged skin. 

Restoring the radiance of the skin and imparting it an even toned look is the prime area of focus of this product. 

I am discussing the fine formulation of the Micro Facial Exfoliant in a short video below. 

• ALOE VERA & GUDUCHI HYDRATING & RETEXTURING FACIAL SERUM - FOR ACNE TREATMENT

Vying for that flawless, pimple-free, clear and glowing skin? This serum comes to your rescue with its effectiveness in the form of Aloe Vera and Guduchi Extracts. 

Even though this is an oil-free serum that's light enough to be applied multiple times a day, I would suggest to use it as a partner in your night routine so that you wake up feeling refreshed. 

I have elucidated my usage of the Facial Serum in the video below. 

All in all, I am satisfied with the product range that Seer Secrets has to offer, and would suggest to get these products for yourself if you wish to care for your skin in an authentic manner. 

What's more is that you can make use of my exclusive coupon code - "poonam10" on Seer Secrets to avail flat 10 percent discount on your purchase at checkout, no minimum cart value required. Also, in these times of the ongoing pandemic, the folks at Seer Secrets are also handing out a complimentary Hand Sanitizer with every purchase worth ₹499. 

So, go ahead and make use of the time at hand in lockdown to care for your skin in a worthy manner. Also, make sure to follow me and Seer Secrets on Instagram and FB - @poonam.stiryoursouls and @seersecrets for more such self-care DIYs.  :)

Alternative Medicine For Holistic Healing At WAAYN...

Dreams have no boundaries. The statement stands true for the Member of German Parliament, Dr. Robby Schlund, who recently visited India. The aim of his visit was to explore the opportunities of promoting an alternative system of medicine across the world and to create a non-profit organization that can work towards raising awareness about ‘Right to choose the medium of Treatment’.

“I am here to learn more about prevention and health to discuss traditional, age-old curative practices that still provide much of the Indian population today, and to discuss the ways in which this can be integrated and reconciled with our modern western healthcare.”

For the same, he met the entire team of World Assembly on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy (WAAYN), which is scheduled to be held on November 7-10, 2019.

“I am really impressed with the concepts of WAAYN. I am an ayurvedic doctor and understand the importance and benefit that alternative medicine can offer. Ayurveda is all about maintaining the health of the healthy and to treat the sick. Because it is more than a medicine, it is comprehensive health education. For many centuries, the experiences of entire generations of physicians have been collected. WAAYN will help people to understand, learn and strengthen their faith in alternative medicine,” said Dr. Robby Schlund, Member of the German Parliament.

The Secretary of AYUSH communicated to the German Parliamentarian about the steps taken by the Ministry to popularise the traditional system of medicine in India and worldwide. He also met a team of AYUSH representatives in German Embassy, Delhi which was led by Vaidya Devendra Triguna. He is the President of the All India Ayurvedic Congress and Vice Chairman, Advisory Committee World Assembly on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy.

On the occasion, Nitin Agrawal, Secretary, Vishwa Ayurved Parishad and owner of Bliss Ayurveda Health Village, Dr. Surendra Chaudhary, President, Vishwa Ayurved Parishad (Uttar Pradesh) and Vaidya Chhagan Jangid, National President, NASYA, Dr. Rajesh Kumar Singh, General Secretary, Indian Naturopathy and Yoga Graduates' Medical Association (INYGMA), Ram Kumar, Nirog Street were also present.

Dr. Robby is all set to be back again in India during WAAYN to enhance cooperation between India and Germany in the field of alternative medicine. He also underlined the need to enhance cooperation between India and Germany in the field of alternative medicine including Ayurveda and Homeopathy.

Even during his visit, Dr. Robby inaugurated the brochure of World Assembly on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy. He also met the team of Ayurved Sutra, an interview with whom will be published in the next edition of Ayurved Sutra.

I am surely looking forward to World Assembly on Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy (WAAYN), to be held later this year on November 7-10, 2019 in Noida, NCR. :)

Therapeutic Rejuvenation At Kairali...

Ayurveda has been the sole science since ancient times whose therapies and practices have been beneficially integrated with general wellness applications and as well in some cases in medical use. 

There are also twenty Gunas (qualities or characteristics) which are considered to be inherent in all substances, organized in ten pairs: heavy/light, cold/hot, unctuous/dry, dull/sharp, stable/mobile, soft/hard, non-slimy/slimy, smooth/coarse, minute/gross, and viscous/liquid.

Backed by the solid ground of Ayurveda research, Kairali Ayurvedic Group is the brainchild of Mr. K.V. Ramesh and Mrs. Gita Ramesh, that since its inception in 1989 has built on the achievements of its forefathers, developing its product infrastructure to make a diverse range of Ayurvedic medicines available to a multi-national audience.

Kairali's newest Ayurvedic Treatment Centre has set base in Sector 43, Gurgaon, and in this post, I am elucidating my experience of being at the pleasant receiving end of their Ayurvedic Package rightfully christened 'Royal Makeover'.

A consolidation of seven therapies backed by Ayurveda as a science, the Royal Makeover at Kairali's newest setup believed by them to be a sanctuary of holistic health, healing, and therapy spans a good 150 minutes i.e. three hours.

The centre at Sector 43 spans a good green cover with a floral welcome and a Lord Ganesha idol at the entrance. The reception area has also been tastefully designed to provide an imitation of the Ayurvedic Healing Village at Palakkad with a brass lamp and bells as a chandelier and Kairali's Ayurvedic products on display, the most prominent of which is their Herbal Tea, served post-therapy to all patrons.

Also prominently highlighted on the walls are five classical elements or पञ्चभूत, viz. earth, water, fire, air, and ether, and three elemental substances, called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

The therapy rooms are tastefully designed with woodwork and are spacious enough.

There is also a Shirodhara vessel in each room to facilitate therapy. 

The regimen of Royal Makeover is split into two rounds comprising head massage (शिरो-अभयंग), foot massage (पद प्रक्षालनम), and body massage (अभयंगम) in the former, and powder massage, face massage (मुख-अभयंग), eye massage (नेत्र तर्पणम), and steam bath in the latter.

It is indeed a rejuvenating experience once you step into Kairali and after you emerge from the therapy. It is much-needed self-care and self-love i.e. Me Time personified thanks to the science of Ayurveda that Kairali puts into practice. :)

Back to Roots With Kairali's Chef's Retreat...

Food is one of our basic needs for sustenance and survival. It is also known that food can work as a medicine. There is a treasure out there, of an ample number of ingredients that can be used solely or in tandem with one another to provide a healing effect, and in general, instill positive vibes in the body for proceeding towards a calmer lifestyle.

Ayurveda has been the sole science since ancient times whose therapies and practices have been beneficially integrated with general wellness applications and as well in some cases in medical use.
Ayurveda has historically divided bodily substances into five classical elements or पञ्चभूत, viz. earth, water, fire, air, and ether.

There are also twenty Gunas (qualities or characteristics) which are considered to be inherent in all substances, organized in ten pairs: heavy/light, cold/hot, unctuous/dry, dull/sharp, stable/mobile, soft/hard, non-slimy/slimy, smooth/coarse, minute/gross, and viscous/liquid.

Apart from these, three elemental substances, called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha have been elucidated, whose balance results in health, while imbalance results in disease.

Backed by the solid ground of Ayurveda research, Kairali Ayurvedic Group is the brainchild of Mr. K.V. Ramesh and Mrs. Gita Ramesh, that since its inception in 1989 has built on the achievements of its forefathers, developing its product infrastructure to make a diverse range of Ayurvedic medicines available to a multi-national audience.

The Group is founded on authentic Ayurvedic medicine and philosophy, delivering high quality natural Ayurvedic therapy and has made a name for itself in the Ayurveda industry.

Kairali is spread across nine countries with thirty-five treatment centers and has also diversified into Ayurvedic Medicines & Healing Centers. Its signature Ayurvedic Health Retreat, 'The Ayurvedic Healing Village' is one of the leading Ayurvedic health retreats in Asia, and among the best wellness centers in the world.

The Ayurvedic Healing Village will be hosting India’s first, Ayurveda-based Chef’s Retreat, christened 'Healing Recipes - Back to Roots' from July 3, 2017, to July 6, 2017, in Palakkad, Kerala.

Designed through 120 years’ worth of collective experience of the experts at Kairali and some of India’s leading culinary minds, the idea behind Healing Recipes - Back to Roots is to create a fascinating platform that brings forth ancient food wisdom and philosophy presented through modern culinary practices. It is an endeavor to help people realize how food can be their biggest investment for happiness and wellness.

Speaking at the unveiling of the concept, Chef Manjit Singh Gill said,

“Food is the single, most important investment that we make every single day of our lives, and yet modern times has seen food being defined as “junk” and “unhealthy”. That is a thought I completely disagree with. How can something that heals and nourishes be harmful? Hence, it is imperative that we revisit our approach to food, to ingredients and cooking techniques. Healing Recipes - Back to Roots, for me, is that one platform that will help you rethink food.”

'Healing Recipes - Back to Roots'  has been put together under the mentorship of legendary Chef Gill and Ayurveda-expert-author of The Ayurvedic Cookbook and Jt. Managing Director,  Kairali Ayurvedic Group, Mrs. Gita Ramesh. This inaugural season has also been endorsed by some of the renowned names in the industry and will have expert chefs such as Mexican cuisine expert Chef Vikas Seth, progressive cuisine ace Chef Abhijit Saha and Indian cuisine specialist, Chef Chetan Sethi conducting specially curated classes.

Mrs. Ramesh added,

“The first chapter of Healing Recipes - Back to Roots is a conscious effort at food sustainability. It is an attempt at showcasing how age-old philosophy and culinary practices still hold relevance in modern times.”

Talking about the need for platforms that advocates sustainability and wellness, Chef Seth said,

“Healing Recipes - Back to Roots is a window into the world of food for chefs and others alike to experience the various culinary trends that have held centre-stage in the past five years: be it Clean Eating, Farm to Table, even foraging for unknown ingredients and practices.”

“Healing Recipes is an exciting journey that starts from the farm and culminates as a breathtaking dish on the plate. It is an opportunity to discover the wonders of food, philosophies and the culture of taste,” said Ms. Madhulika Dash Curator & Co-Founder, Healing Recipes - Back to Roots.

Healing Recipes is a three-day event where residents will get to interact with Ayurvedic doctors and chefs, attend specially-curated masterclasses, explore local cuisine, learn the trick of growing vegetables and spice, organically, and master the art of making gourmet meals that are nourishing and indulging.

Of Ayurveda And Beauty With Indus Valley...

If I say that Indus Valley is a synonym to100% indigenous organic beauty and cosmetic care in a true sense, it would not be a misnomer. A visit to their research and development center at Faridabad was an eye opener in many aspects.

So far, very few of us know about this interesting company having large production setups, exports to every corner of the world, and a research and development center. There is a large range of products. And most of the products that Indus Valley produce easily qualify the stringent norms and standards of the United States and European countries.

The reigns of the company are in the hands of two most qualified scientists in this field. Shyam Arya and Seema Arya are the founders of this fabulous company.

Both the founders were present to share their beautiful journey so far and future plans ahead. There is a systematic and scientific approach in all their plans be it pilot run of new products, the launch of the product range, strategy towards exports, and decision for new OEM customers.

Though there are various products of global repute but Indus Valley Gel Hair Colour has always been the USP of this organic brand. Whether the products belong to the Natural range of Organic range, one thing is for sure and it is that all their products are 100% risk-free.

The company started its journey in 2007. Within no time it was able to penetrate most of the European countries, the US, and other countries in Asia. It shows a huge trust and acknowledgment of a large number of their customers.

Indus Valley's products are presently available in more than fifty e-Commerce portals and eighteen countries globally. The credit for its global success goes to the power of Ayurveda. Indus Valley is a natural brand.

There are more than sixty products that form a complete and comprehensive beauty care solution. The Gel Hair Colour among all these products is the most exclusive product. There are many reasons behind it. Besides winning many global certifications such as Bio Natural, Halal, EcoCert etc., the product is the first choice of recommendation among doctors.

In fact, Indus Valley Gel Hair Colour is entirely free from harmful chemicals like Hydrogen Peroxide, PPD, Ammonia, Barium, and other heavy metals.

In addition to above, there are a number of other interesting facts that make Indus Valley Gel Hair Colour a class apart. It consists of herbal ingredients such as Amla, Aloe vera, Honey, Basil, Orange, Sunflower, Wheatgerm, etc. All these constituents make it extremely beneficial for hair care requirements.

The product gives absolute gray coverage without creating any gaps. It works almost as a permanent hair color. In fact, the color stays for about three months. Moreover, it is exclusively gel in texture and therefore is a simpler one for the application part of it. In addition, Indus Valley Gel Hair Colour produces a refreshing aroma of orange during application that stays for many hours afterward.

All in all, Indus Valley forms for quite a promising choice when it comes to hair-care at large. :)

#ComeCloser to Radiance...

We are in the habit of taking our skin and its care for granted. We wash our face with soap or face wash and feel assured that once this is done, our skin will remain bacteria-free. But, that is not true.

Nature has blessed us with soft, radiant, and supple skin, by birth which remains so, for a few years, and hence in our childhood days, we don't develop the habit of practicing any special techniques to care for our skin. But the fact is that the skin needs constant care.

• The first and foremost need of our skin is hydration. To retain the suppleness of our skin, we need to drink lots of water. If lemon and honey are added to it, it would be like icing on the cake, as honey retains moisture for a longer time. 

• The next important need is exfoliation of the skin's layers to remove dead cells, which keep on accumulating and restricts the skin from breathing properly. For this, natural scrubbers are the best choice. Take two tablespoons of coarse gram flour (बेसन), add fresh malai and a bit of turmeric to it. Mix it well and massage it on your face, while scrubbing softly, in rotatory motion. The coarseness of gram flour removes dead cells, turmeric exhibits its antiseptic properties to remove bacteria and dust, and malai keeps the skin smooth and soft. The result is glowing, radiant skin, ready to breathe. 

• Another important care is to protect the skin from harsh ultraviolet rays, when we step out, especially in the scorching sun. Instead of applying sunscreens available in the market and confusing ourselves as to which SPF would be safe for our respective skin type, nature itself has provided us with an effective remedy. Tomato contains lycopene, which acts as a natural sunscreen. Just take red tomato pulp and apply it gently on the skin. Let it settle for a few minutes and wash it off. Lo and behold, you are ready to face the SUN and its harshness. 

• As we age, we tend to become a bit careless towards our skin-care regime. But still, wrinkles pose a grave threat which needs to be dealt with, effectively. In this case also, fresh tomato pulp helps, with its anti-oxidant properties. 

It is always better not to rely on products with various harsh chemicals as constituents but on our age-old natural kitchen remedies. Vicco, which also agrees with the same ideology, have been making natural products since long, incorporating sandalwood and turmeric. Their flagship product VICCO Turmeric Cream has been ruling our television sets since the past few weeks and their jingle which claims that their products are not cosmetic, but Ayurvedic has touched our hearts too.

My friends and I had been using Vicco's products when they were in their prime. Hence, I am glad that they have made a pleasant comeback to safeguard today's generation and their skin from chemically manufactured products.