Author: yachnaa

The Art of Yoni Steaming.
The other day I did something incredible that I had never come across before. It’s called Yoni (Vaginal) Steaming. Maybe you have heard of it. Perhaps you haven’t. Yoni is the Sanskrit word for the vagina that translates to “a sacred space.” Beautiful. Isn’t it?

During the two hours of doing my first Yoni Steaming together (virtually) with Simone, I learnt about the art of deeply caring for your body, your womb space, and that beautiful yoni of yours. It reminded me how essential it was to take the time to sit and cultivate a deeper connection to your feminine wisdom. It was an experience that I didn’t know was so desperately needed in my life.

Between menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth, the vagina withstands a lot. When you add changing hormones and pelvic floor issues to the mix, sometimes the vaginal area is anything but comfortable. That’s why the ancient practice of yoni steaming is coming back.

Below, learn all about this beautiful spiritual ritual to connect deeply with your yoni. Remember, yoni care is self-care.
What is Yoni Steaming?

Yoni steams are a holistic health practice where a woman straddles (sits) over steaming water with a combination of herbs (basically, a warm cup of herbal tea).

The warmth of the steam softens and opens the pores of the vaginal and vulvar skin. You sit and receive the warmth of the herbal healing steam. Then, the herbs absorb into the skin and uterus, leaving your yoni and you relaxed and rejuvenated from inside out.

Stay with me, as we’ll be going over all the juicy details to safely practise this ritual in the comfort of your house.

Remember: You never want to steam while you are bleeding. It’s to be done 3 days before your cycle or 3 days after your cycle ends. Or once every week.
Herb Blends:

You can incorporate so many healing herbs in your Yoni Steaming practice, make it your own, and get witchy. The process of creating your own blend in itself is a very soothing ritual and can be a way to step into your sensuality. Incorporating herbs in my yoni steams is one of my favourite things about the ritual, and it really gets me deep into my body. ⠀⠀

Simone recommended a few of the following healing herbs that I used for my Yoni Steaming-

1) Lavender

You can use the tea bags too! It’s a disinfecting herb. In case you have dampness that causes UTI. It will help clear and dry out the dampness in the uterus. Plus, it’s aromatherapy, and part of the ritual is aromatherapy.

2)Rose Petals

Rose petals are cleansing herb by the Chinese medicine standard. They are blood movers; they will create a movement of blood in the body. This is for somebody who cramps a lot. It’s not suitable for someone who spots/bleeds a lot.

3) Nettle

Also known as birth and kidney tonic. It helps hydrate the body and brings a lot of moisture. It’s a high nutrient and rich in Vitamin B and Iron. As we steam with nettles, it replenishes our bodies with these properties.
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Directions For Yoni Steaming At Home

Tried and tested by Simone at her sex workshops, here are the directions to safely practise yoni steaming at home:

1) In a medium-sized pot, pour roughly about 8-10 cups of water.

2) Boil water in a steam pot soaking your herbs in it. Do not add or use any essential oils, as they are too strong and may burn sensitive genital tissue.

3) Bring the water to a boil for about 5 minutes.

4) Then, turn off the heat and let the herbs steep for another 5 minutes with the lid on.

5) Now, it’s essential to test the temperature of the steam before using it. If it’s too hot, let it sit for 15 seconds and re-test it. Only go ahead if you feel comfortable with the temperature of the steam.

6) Pour the water into a pot, and cover the pot with a towel.

7) Remove your underwear and straddle above the steaming pot.

8) Wrap a large blanket or a wrapping around your waist, making sure no steam escapes.

9) You should feel comforting warm heat for about 15 minutes before the steam dies down.

During The Steam- You sit and receive the moist warmth of the healing steam. It enters your body directly through your yoni and penetrates to your uterus, pelvis, and even up through a deep central channel connecting to your heart so you can feel better in your body and your life.⠀

After the steam – “we gift the sacred waters back to a plant or tree to offer out prayers, release our stagnation and gift seeds for growth.”

Please note: don’t steam for longer than 15 minutes if you have an IUD.
What To Expect After The Steaming Ritual?

After a V steam, some may notice more moisture immediately or shortly after steam. This is due to the radiant warmth of the far-infrared heat, which penetrates deeply into the muscles and tissues of the vagina, and increases oxygen flow and circulation to remove impurities and harmful toxins such as cholesterol and heavy metals-much like with a standard sauna treatment.

The warmth of the steam softens and opens the pores of the vaginal and vulvar skin. You sit and receive the warmth of the herbal healing steam. Then, the herbs absorb into the skin and uterus, leaving your yoni and you relaxed and rejuvenated from inside out.
Benefits

During my session with Simone, she took the time to walk me through a wide range of benefits that Yoni Steaming gives to your body. Here are a few of them:

1) Helps heal bad cramps/PMS:

The stream flows into the Vaginal Canal, helping soften and release any stagnation and regulating the uterine lining, therefore relieving camps.

2) Helps decrease chances of vaginal infections:

Infections are a result of left residue from sex, menstrual cycles and stagnation. When the lining is not completely cleared in our cycles, it is like a leftover residue, worsening when we stress the body.

Steaming helps clean and clear the uterus of any bacteria or dormant dampness that creates a home for these bacteria.

3) Helps with remedying painful intercourse:

Think of steaming like foreplay; women need 20-40 min to become completely aroused-meaning for our erectile tissue to engorge and thus produce the lubrication and padding around our vaginal canal for repetitive penetration.

4) Connect to your wisdom and feminity:

When we spend time intimately in our womb and genitals, we get to know our body, patterns, discomfort, and messages.

These traditions have been lost to us in the western world. As you steam, you will gain more insight into your body and what you need.

5) Promotes restful sleep.

6) Assists in creating regular cycles.

7) Decreases chance of cysts, fibroids, and endometriosis.
Finally, sharing this beautiful message from Simone.

” Steaming is a tool that can help release heavy emotions out of the body. When we have a safe space in our own home on our own time to connect and release the damage, pain, memories stored in our body, we can heal. I know this from personally healing the effects of a toxic relationship. When we are with people that dim our light, that have intentions of hurting rather than loving us, and we let them, our energy changes, our self-worth changes. We are incapacitated on many major energetic levels. We frankly don’t want to be sexual or fall into patterns of wanting it from unhealthy partners. That is why Sex healing check-in and tune-ups are essential!⠀⠀⠀

Thank you, Simone. You can follow her online community, Pleasure Plus for all the juicy and sensual tips.

Take time this weekend to sit and connect with yourself. Remember, yoni care is self-care!

P.S.

The art of self pleasure.

xx

Yachna

(Images: Pleasure Plus)
May 1, 2021
12 Beautiful Spring Dresses.

In the hopes of warmer weather, I’ve been treating myself to fun, bold and vibrant coloured dresses. I figure a year in loungewear deserves a pretty pick-me-up, an invitation to get back into the world, an opportunity to look at myself clothed in something beautiful and wear the smile that I feel inside. Here are 12 beautiful spring dresses options-

This simply gorgeous dress is going to be soft, light, and breathable for hot summer days. Also, so perfect for brunch or a casual date night!!

Floral split thigh dress.

Elegant minimalist slit-dress.

Its like wearing poetry! Find this midi dress here.

Crisp cotton trapeze dress.

This lime dress is love!!

Maxi Dress.

Puff-Sleeved Mini Dress.

Gingham Dress.

Maxi dress.

Over sized denim dress.

Shirtdress.

P.S.

How cute is this pink flirty dress?

April 23, 2021
A Beginner’s Guide to Being a Plant Parent.

Now that we’ve been spending more time than ever at our homes now; we can’t help but look at every room with a closer eye. Should we rearrange the furniture a certain way? Should we add some art? And most importantly, should we get some plants?

With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to add a new and fresh life to your home. Today, we partnered with Glass Earth Plant Store to get you started on your plant parenthood journey.

Being a plant parent is a learning experience, and it’s 100% never perfect- and that’s okay! If you kill your first plant, that’s okay; we won’t judge, for we’ve been there too! To get you started on your first plant, we’ve put together a beginners guide to being a plant parent to make sure your experience is a pleasant and delightful one:

1) The lighting in your home

Do you have enough light in your home? Is your home lighting dim even during the summertime? It’s best to consider your home’s lighting and then go for a plant that would be most compatible with your house’s lighting.

Always check which way your windows face and observe the lighting. This will go a long way in helping you choose the right plant for the correct location.

What windows provide the best lighting?

East windows generally provide the best lighting for tropicals, while south and southwest exposure can often be too intense.

Keep in mind that most tropical plants grow under the canopy of the jungle, where it is pretty dark and therefore does not need direct sun. This is the location best suited for cactus and succulents and a few thicker leafed tropicals.

2) Your Schedule

Are you often out and spend days away from home? Are you a homebody? Think through about how much you’ll be able to tend to your plants. Some plants need closer attention to thrive than others.

3) How much water is too much water?

Proper watering is crucial for your plant survival. You ideally should always have your plants planted in pots with good drainage holes so that excess water can leave the roots and the soil. Also, try to avoid bowls or saucers full of water after watering your plants. Make sure to empty them.

It is an excellent idea to research any plant you bring into your home and find out where it is native. That will tell you a lot about the water needs of your plant.

For instance, plants like cactus, which grow in the desert, only need water a few times a year, whereas most tropicals need water every week. The best way to know when your tropical plant needs water is to use your fingers and dig down into the soil and feel it. In most cases, you want the soil to be barely moist before watering. Other plants like to dry out completely in between waterings, so it is best to know a bit about your plant beforehand.

4) Clean the leaves!

It is always a good idea to keep the leaves of your plants clean to photosynthesize effectively. Remember that the rain and the wind help keep the plants’ leaves clean and pest-free in the wild. And occasional showering can help a lot.

Regular wiping of large plant leaves with a Foliar feed and Leaf Shine helps a lot. Make it a habit to check the undersides of your plant leaves for pests. That’s where they like to hide!

5) Fertilize your plant

Occasionally if you own plants, you will encounter pests. We constantly push for natural solutions such as introducing predators to keep your plants healthy.

Choose a natural fertilizer rather than a chemical one to avoid burning the roots. Most soils used indoors have no nutrients, so a good fertilizer like Glass Earths Organic Plant Tea will help feed your plants. Avoid touching roots when transplanting to avoid transplant shock.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about some of the few great plants for you as a beginner: Snake Plants, Pothos, spider plants, Cactus, many Philodendrons, Peace lilies, and bird of paradise.

I hope this info will helps you as much as it helped me!

xx

Yachna

(Images in this post from Unsplash)

April 13, 2021
How to Rock A Bold Lip Colour?

“I swear I cannot pull off amazing bold lips!” I cried out to a friend one evening while getting dressed to get to a dinner reservation. “I see so many of you rock stunning bold lips. But, when I try and do a bold look, I hate how it looks,” I added further. So, when lines like Fenty Beauty expand their popular lipstick palette to include shades like wild lilac and wicked green, the last thing I felt was intimidation. And, that’s the last thing you should feel too! Later that week, I texted my most trusted makeup artist turned friend, Chantel, to spill her secrets of rocking a gorgeous bold lip. Here she shares her four best tips:

1) Exfoliate lips

Exfoliating lips are so healthy for removing dead skin. It eliminates flakey skin that builds up over time. Exfoliating lips can soften the lips and make them naturally plump.

Here are some of my favourites: Sugar Lip Polish Exfoliator, these fun and delicious lip scrubs from Lush (all vegan!!).

Fun Little Tip: You can also use a toothbrush to exfoliate your lips. It immediately softens and plumps the lips. Keep in mind, don’t use the brush too harshly. Instead, use light and gentle strokes.

(Bella Hadid from Allure 2018)

2) Moisturize + Hydrate

Buff away all the dryness on the lips with a blissfully buttery and super hydrating lip balm. “I’ve been using the Biossance squalane+rose vegan lip balm religiously,” advises Chantel, my gorgeous makeup artist. “Lip balm is also an excellent base to lipstick and allows it to glide on easier and gives your lips a silky smooth finish.” she further adds.

For deeper hydration, use overnight lip masks. I love the lip mask by LANEIGE. Although a sleeping mask, I’ve been using this mask as lipgloss as well, and it makes my lips look glossy and hydrated. A little goes a long way.

Little Tip: For sensitive lips, I would avoid using lip balms that have harsh chemicals, alcohol, and menthol in it. It can lead to skin irritation and cause an allergic reaction.

(Photo from LUVALASH)

3) Line the Lips

“Adding a lip liner before and after a bold lip helps to define and bring back your lip shape, as it can sometimes get hidden within a bold lip colour,” suggests Chantel.

Depending on the look you’re going for with a bold lip colour, a lip liner can help achieve several looks. For instance- you could create an ombre lip effect and change your lip’s shape (bigger or smaller). Additionally, you could intensify the colour by adding a soft layer of lip liner over the lipstick.

Here are a few of the lip liner brands that we highly recommend at different price points:

a) Essence Soft Contouring Lip Liner

Category: Super- low Priced

Essence is one of the lowest-priced drug-store brands that does not compromise with its high quality.

b) e.l.f. Cosmetics

Category: Super-low priced

You won’t regret owning this non-irritating lip liner. This lip liner comes with a blending brush on one end and a retractable lip liner on the other end. This $1.20 lipliner is surprisingly smooth and high in pigmentation and doesn’t bleed because the blending brush helps to blend out any harsh lines very easily.

c) Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lip Liner

Category: Medium priced

The variation in nude colours sold me on these lip liners and that they were super creamy and long-lasting. The colours are just intense enough to give a beautiful wash of colour to wear all over the lip.

d) MAC Cosmetics

Category: High-End

We love MAC Cosmetics! For the liners from MAC, a little goes a long way, and it lasts forever!

(Photo by skintypesmag)

4) Fill in the lips with your favourite bold colour:

If you want to try an intimidating colour for yourself, don’t think you can’t go for it! The first step would be to research what colour suits your skin tone best. The easiest colour to start with is orange. It’s light, fun and fresh! And, from there, experiment with several different shades of the colour.

At the end of the day, it’s just lipstick. It’s fun and temporary. You’ve got nothing to lose. Make up routine, you just a got lot more exciting! Muahhhhhh!!!

Thoughts? Are there any tips that you’d like to share? Is there a colour that excites you? Let us know all about your fun lipstick adventures in the comments below.

xx

Yachna

(Featured image by Essence)

April 7, 2021
A Refreshing Mango Key Lime Tart.

Hey, how’s your week going? This week I’ve been craving all things mangoes+ mango-flavoured desserts. While scrolling through endless mango desserts, I came across Mei Yee‘s refreshing mango key lime tart (vegan+plantbased) that looks like it would make all my problems go away with just one bite. I’ve never thought of mixing mango with key lime, but now that I think of it, the key lime would make the dessert so refreshing with its tartness. Here’s the full recipe:

Crust

1 1/4 cups gluten-free rolled oats

3/4 cup almonds

1/3 cup quinoa flakes @suncorefoods

1/4 cup coconut oil

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 tsp vanilla bean extract.

Filling

600g mangoes, purée

1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tbsp key lime zest

1 cup full fat coconut milk

2 tsp agar agar powder.

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 180C. Grease a tart pan. Set aside.

In a food processor, process rolled oats, quinoa flakes, almonds until finely ground. Add the maple syrup, vanilla, coconut oil and pulse until well combined. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and sides of the pan. Bake for 20 mins or until it turns golden brown. Let cool completely…

In a food processor, purée mangoes until smooth.

In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, lime juice, key lime zest, bring up to a boil and add agar-agar powder. Whisk constantly until agar completely dissolved. Then add in maple syrup, whisking constantly. Allow boiling for approximately 30 seconds.

Remove from heat and pour the mixture into the food processor with the mango purée. Pulse until well combined. Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. Then pour mango lime mixture into a cooled tart shell and place in the fridge for at least 6 hours to set.

Thank you, Mei! Check out Mei’s delightful food page with delicious vegan and plant-based recipes.

xx

Yachna

P.S.

More food recipes, including a charcuterie board, and this creamy yummy bolognese!

March 27, 2021
What Turns You On?

Seriously though, the past few weeks have been intense! Pleasure is the last thing I have time for or can even think about when there are so many other things to be navigating right now. Or so my inner voice always says.

I find myself craving a deeper and meaningful experience in times like these, which is a cry for help for more intimacy that can easily slip our minds. It wasn’t until I attended a self-pleasure workshop lead by Simone Farschi, a sex coach who helped me bring new awareness to connect with my body on a deeper level through pleasure mapping.

What is Pleasure Mapping?

Pleasure mapping is a practice, much like yoga or meditation, to better explore your body on a deeper level, authentic desires, expanding your ability to receive more pleasure.

In simple words, it’s the practice of getting to know your body and how it responds to various touch, sensations, and potential emotional stories held in those areas. In pleasure mapping, we’re just noticing everything. Where do we feel resistance? What do we enjoy the most? How can we change up our routine to experience more pleasure? It’s an incredible way to practise slowing down and savouring the journey.

You can practise this on yourself and can also explore it with a partner. When practising pleasure mapping, you’re encouraged to be more playful, have curiosity, as if you know nothing about yourself or your partner. Having an open mind allows opens up room for more pleasure.

Follow along if you want to feel more pleasure in your sexual life, intimate life, personal life and your daily connection with the world with SIX simple steps –

1) Listen to your body

“Your body is a vast landscape with much beauty and pleasure to be explored,” says Simone. Communicate with your body so you are entirely in alignment with your needs and desires. Create a conversation with yourself and ask your body, the most intimate parts, what they have to say. Allow the parts of you that often go unnoticed a space to be heard.

For instance, ask yourself, “how does your body feel when the touch is light or deep. Does this (touch) feel good or just blah?” suggests Simone. You’ll discover new ways of touch or old ones that just continuously hit the spot. After all, this is the time to awaken and be in your most divine feminine truth and sensual power. ⠀⠀⠀

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2) Bring attention and awareness to your body

Allow yourself the deep awareness to slow down, become curious, and explore your body from your best lover’s perspective.

Pleasure mapping is all about having a deeper connection with our bodies and awareness of what we like and what we don’t like and connecting with all of it on a more juicy level. Noticing your body, are there any kinds of aches or pains? We are not ever judging ourselves, just bringing all our awareness to our body gently. ⠀⠀

Use this time and space to awaken your senses so that you can fall into deeper satisfaction either with your partner or through self-pleasure. It gives you the awareness to notice the nuances that generally pass you by in life – allowing for greater presence, intention, relief, and connection.

3) Take your time

Self-pleasure is something we do in secret by staying quiet, performing quickly, and taking as little space as possible. We rarely ever give ourselves the time to notice the small things about how we like to receive pleasure, how we want to receive intimacy when we are not with a partner.

When we give ourselves the time for some self-pleasure, it’s usually very quick, and we have these patterns repeated since we started connecting with our bodies. Connects with your desires — giving your thoughts and emotions a voice while giving you space and time to receive with ease and grace.

So, set aside some alone time. If lighting candles, playing some relaxing music, putting on some sexy lingerie gets you in the mood, then do it. Make sure to turn off your phone, lock your door, and be present with yourself.

4) Remember, there’s no finish line:

As a sex coach, Simone often advises against having any expectations or agenda when indulging in self-pleasure (this rings true for partnered sex as well).

“There is a whole lot of sensation to experience before we get to the big O, such as waves of feelings, emotions, sensations, desires, and flows of pure ecstasy and anticipation before that, and frankly even after. It’s those little things, the build-up and then the sweet aftercare that makes most of the experience.”

So, instead of worrying about whether you will come or won’t come, bring awareness to how incredible and fun touching yourself feels.

5) Don’t go straight for the clit:

There’s a tendency for women to go straight for the clit when indulging in self-pleasure. One of the biggest takeaways from Simone’s Pleasure Mapping workshop was to break that habit.

Simone wants you to take time to turn yourself on first by exploring other parts of your body that often go unnoticed. “Try light touch on the neck and forearms, pinch/squeeze your nipples, massage your inner thighs, gently rub your belly,” Simone says. “This will get the juices flowing and create room for more pleasure.”Doing this opens up the capacity for sensation.

6) Breathe:

Focusing on your breathing helps build a deeper connection with your body and calms down the nervous system. It brings your awareness back to the present and helps escape any distracting thoughts. Just concentrate on deep inhaling and exhaling, and your body will take care of the rest.

Let’s take a breath together to access more pleasure in our lives.

xx

Yachna

(Information credits for this blog go to Simone Farschi, a sex and intimacy coach. For more information on all the sexy stuff, you can become a part of her community Pleasure Plus).

(Image Credits: Pleasure Plus)

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March 23, 2021
How To Do A Full Body Detox Cleanse At Home?

Hi,

How’s it going? This has been a heavy week and I hope everyone’s doing okay.

I’ve been feeling burnt out, and decided it was time to recharge my batteries by doing a natural cleanse at home for my mind, body, and soul.

Many people, including myself, believe that we need to go through some glorious and rigorous diet to detox our bodies naturally. Detox is all about our lifestyle habits. Are you drinking enough water? Getting quality sleep? Stretching? Moving your body? Eating fruits and veggies? It’s how we show up for ourselves daily.

Always remember, detox is an act of self-love that helps you take control of your body, home, and life. While I am not a certified nutritionist, practising these things have been life-changing for me. Here’s how you can start your natural detox journey at home today:

1) Food:

Say no to caffeine, processed sugar, processed food, alcohol, and dairy. Add more salads, organic veggies, green soups, fresh fruits, seeds, herbal teas and lemon juice to your diet. It’s so important to be intentional with the food you eat. Please pay attention to which foods give you energy and which ones take it away.

Drink at least 4 litres of water daily to remove all the toxins from your body. Lately, all I’ve been eating are salads, smoothies, fresh juices, and fruit bowls. It’s been a while since I felt this amazing!

An important tip: The easiest way to incorporate tons of veggies and greens into your daily diet is by making a delicious creamy vegetable soup.

2) Environment:

Create an environment that is toxins-free, clutter-free, and full of positive energy. Be it home or office. Or a home office if you’re working from home like me. Our surroundings have a lot of effect on our bodies, if not the same as the food we put into it.

Fresh and healthy plants and flowers, tons of natural light, gentle, a clean and clutter-free environment and pure positive music will help a lot in your detox journey. Add refreshing aromatherapy candles, incense sticks or white sage to cleanse the air.

3) Sleep:

Sleep is your body’s repair mechanism. Everything mentioned above is to support and help your own body remove toxins from your body and help it in its function to repair and better itself in the best way. Ensure that your sleeping area is cozy, comfortable, clutter-free, and do a little breathing exercise before going to sleep. Do not eat right before your bedtime. Eating 2-3 hours before my bedtime always seems to work for me.

4) Time:

Like everything in nature, give it time. But do things consistently and with discipline. It’s essential to do fewer things and do it consistently over time. Don’t expect overnight results.

A gentle reminder here is to take your time with things. A detox for just a couple of days or a week can only help momentarily, and it’s the long-term commitment to creating a healthy and toxin-free environment for yourself and your family that will help. Making conscious and healthy choices daily that’ll help. The key is to develop a healthy routine.

Lastly, the body excellent at removing toxins naturally, and it works incredibly well when you exercise well, eat clean, and hit the bathroom regularly. When you have fewer toxins in your body, it gives you more energy, better rest at night, and mental clarity.

Remember: You don’t need to go on a juice cleanse or go on a water diet for a week. When it comes to your detox journey, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Start where you’re at, find your balance, and be more forgiving to yourself.

I hope this helps 🙂

Do you any added tips for a natural cleanse at home? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

xx

Yachna

P.S.

Soothing words for your soul.

March 19, 2021
Hey, Are You Ok?

A few weeks ago, My uncle, who rarely ever got sick, was taken suddenly taken to the hospital over a bit of discomfort that the doctors assured was a non-issue. He woke up every day since doing better, maybe feeling a little sluggish but nothing out of the ordinary. And within days, he was tested positive for the coronavirus, and weeks later, like hundreds of others- has died.

“Hey, Are you ok?” my friend reached out to me one afternoon after hearing the news of my uncle passing away. I’ve cried more in the past two weeks more than I’ve in the past three years. No, I wasn’t ok. The crippling wave of sadness and grief took over my family and continues to reside there. Having lost my father to cancer a few years ago, the news of my uncle tragically passing away at such a young age brought me to my breaking point. Another piece of my childhood just vanished into thin air. No final good-byes. No parting words to comfort me. Only deafening silence.

I felt over-powered by the all-consuming and heartbreaking sadness as I sat in the puddle of my tears unconsolable. I didn’t see a point in talking about this with anyone. I chose to withdraw from everyone. My decision to withdraw from everyone was to avoid those empty ‘you ok?’ Or ‘so sad’ comments. I found it hard to cope with this loss and didn’t have the strength to deal with anyone. The hardest part of losing some you love – is that you still have to get up the next day and ‘live.’

If you know a friend or family member who is struggling with losing a loved one, please be patient with them. Show them kindness and acknowledge their pain. They don’t want to feel good or laugh. They want to mourn and grieve the unbearable loss. Sit with them, be kind, and hold their hand while they slowly make their way out of the dreadful darkness. “Are you Ok?” can be the most thoughtful words you can offer to someone during this time.

After three years of losing my dad, I can honestly say that the pain doesn’t go away completely. It subsides. It fades. And, with a bit of help and time, we will all be ok.

Sending lots of hugs to anyone that needs it!

xx

Yachna

(Featured Image by Pamsteenwijk).

March 14, 2021
My Beauty Cocktail: Simran Gill

I’ve never met Simran. After coming across her feed through a mutual friend I was captivated. Her style was so outstanding and chic that I sent her a follow request right away. Ever since I’ve always looked forward to seeing Simran’s outfits for different occasions. She’s always up to something fun while looking so effortlessly stylish. Born and raised in Germany, she studied International Hotel Management in Spain. Here, she shares her holy grail beauty products, the most exciting place that she’s travelled to, and self-love rituals that bring her happiness.

I love and adore your fashion style. It’s so fresh and artistic. Where do you get your fashion/style inspiration from?

I take fashion inspirations either from Instagram bloggers and love spotting trends on the street. I also love approaching people to ask where they bought a certain dress, the stunning lip colour, or their statement shoes.

Here are a few of my favourite people that I get tons of fashion inspiration from –

1)Blake Lively for western outfit ideas.

2)Sonam Kapoor for Indian wear.

3) And, influencers such as hannabannaboom, Camile Coelho, Mavia Nijjer, and cocobeautea.

Which clothing brand you like to shop at the most? And why?

I am actually not loyal to any brand and enjoy exploring different designers. Some of my favourites are Andotherstories, COS, ZARA, Topshop, and  Massimo Dutti.

What’s your most comfortable pair of jeans?

Topshop jeans are a gamechanger!

What’s your favourite winter-style item?

I love long coats in either bright colours such as pink, or nudes or black.

Your winter style is just so chic! I’m obsessed with it. How do stay warm yet look so stylish during winters?

Layering! Layering! Layering! and turtlenecks 🙂

Your tips on one of the few ways to choose and wear stylish clothes in winter?

Here’s what works the best for me- corduroy pants (Levis and Marc O Polo have the best fit), turtlenecks, and long blazers (keep the back warm).

What life advice/hack (beauty or non-beauty related) would you give to our readers?

Beauty Advice: I would highly recommend deep moisturizing for the face and body to prevent skin dryness. And oil treatments for hair (I use argan and castor oil mixed).

Life Advice: I always carry a scarf with me because I am constantly freezing. So, if you’re like me, then I would recommend having a scarf to keep you warm.

Your skin always looks so fresh and healthy. What do you do for skincare?

I begin my skincare with a facial cleanser. The cleanser that I use is Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Face Wash. After cleansing, I use the Bija Trouble Skin Toner, followed by Benton Snail Bee Serum and then moisturize with my go-to Grown Alchemist Hydra Cream. Finally, I end it with sunblock. I never go without Nuxe Sunblock 50 SPF.

My night routine looks the same, except I swap sunblock with Sunday Luna Sleeping Night Oil.

What about masks?

I love Korean skincare products, especially their sheet masks. They are an important part of my skincare routine, about twice-thrice a week. Two of my favourite masks are It’s Skin The Fresh Mask Sheet Avocado and MISSHA Tea Tree Mask.

Korean skincare is a bible! I swear upon it, and their quality is great.

Let’s talk makeup! Do you have a makeup routine?

I am not much of a makeup person, and I rarely use it because I have very sensitive acne-prone skin.

But on the rare occasions that I do, I start with Estee Lauder The Smoother Universal Perfecting Primer. I then conceal with Tarte Shape Tape Concealer. I don’t use foundation. To define my eyebrows, I use Precisely, My Brow Pencil by Benefit Cosmetics. For my lashes, I use Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics. For Kajal, I use Faces Eye Pencil. No eyeshadow either for me. To blush my cheeks, I use LES TISSAGES DE CHANEL in 100 TWEED CORALLINE. When I contour, I use my contour. For highlighting, I use Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Afternoon Snack/Mo’ Hunny.

A helpful tip: When I want my makeup to last long, I use MAC Studio Fix in NC41.

I end with a lipstick/gloss. A few of my go-to’s are-  Gloss Bomb by Fenty Beauty, love of my life- Nars lipstick pencil in Dragon Girl and Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk.

What’s your go-to beauty product?

It’d be my Roller Lash Mascara. I love it because the price is good and the quality is awesome! No spider lashes, not sticky, nicely separated lashes.

You carry yourself so gracefully, and with so much confidence. What’s your secret?

I always wear what I like and feel most comfortable in. Moreover, I do not care what people think of my dressing sense and believe in myself truly. Also, when I am shopping and am not 100% sure about an item, I never buy it. Additionally, I have pretty strong decision-making skills. Hence my shopping is rather quick.

After having followed you for several years on Insta, it’s evident that travelling is a huge part of your life. What’s the most beautiful and exciting place you’ve been to?

The most exciting I’ve been to was Cambodia. I lived in Thailand for six months a few years ago and made a trip to the Angkor Wat, which was breathtaking. I was totally blown away by the historical sights, nature and vast landscapes! It was, without a doubt, the most captivating experience.

Here are some of my favourite pictures from that trip:

How do you practise self-love in your life?

I connect with myself by practicing daily meditation, self-reflection, taking a hot bath, and enjoying a massage, paint, and I love candles. There is something sacred about lighting them. Therefore, I always set an intention when I do it. For instance- today, I am looking for peace or have patience. I enjoy stretching or doing yoga (I love Vinyasa flow) and deep-breathing. Finally, conscious eating (so so important for your gut and emotional well-being).

What are you most passionate about in your life?

Travel!

I have travelled a lot in the past and also currently. Even though it can get hectic sometimes, I always make sure my place feels cozy and homey. Right now, I am redecorating my space in India and can let my creativity flow which gives me peace and happiness.

Now, I know you’re a reader based on your Instagram stories. What’s one book you’d recommend everyone to read?

I am a book fanatic. Therefore, recommending one is quite difficult for me:

1) Men Without Women by Haruki Murakami.

2) The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt.

3) The Prophet by Khalil Gibran.

4) Chess Story by Stefan Zweig.

I also love reading poetry. Here’s my current favourite poem by Jalaluddin Rumi.

Oh my gosh! What a beautiful poem.

Thank you so much, Simran. You are wonderful! xx

P.S.

More Beauty Cocktails, including a stunning makeup artist and a gorgeous fashion stylist.

February 24, 2021
Delicious Creamy Veggie Bolognese.

“This is the perfect recipe for when you want the silky, luxurious richness of bolognese but you want something lighter and quicker and no meat! It’s also very adaptable and you could use a mixture of vegetables (I used a tiny bit of cauliflower and lots of cabbage) and then top it with lots of parm and lots of freshly cracked black pepper and lemon zest.”

Vegetarian Bolognese

1/4 cup olive oil

1 onion

2 stalks of celery

2 carrots

6 cloves of garlic

1/2 head of cauliflower or 1/2 head of cabbage

1 tbsp red pepper flakes (or less if spice sensitive)

4 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup red wine

1 cup whole milk

1 cup chicken stock

Orange or lemon peel

Cinnamon or nutmeg

Parmesan rind (optional)

Anchovies (optional)

Salt

Black pepper

Sugar

1lb pasta parmesan (for serving)

1. Finely chop the onion, and garlic and shred the carrots using a box grater or pulse everything in a food processor. Do the same with the cauliflower or cabbage.

2. In a large saucepan or dutch oven, heat the olive oil on medium heat. When shimmering, add the chopped veggies and cook until browned and starting to stick to the bottom of the pot.

3. If using, add in anchovies as well as the red pepper flakes and tomato paste and the wine, making sure to scrape any of the browned bits at the bottom of the pan and bring mixture to a simmer.

4. Once simmering, add in the milk, chicken stock, orange or lemon peel, and a sprinkling of cinnamon or nutmeg. Season with salt (2tsp) and black pepper and 1tsp of sugar. Add in the parmesan rind if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-30 minutes and taste along the way. Add in more salt or pepper according to taste. You want the sauce to look meaty and thick.

5. Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted water. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.

6. Add drained pasta to the sauce, as well as some of the pasta water and toss until the sauce is clinging to the noodles.

7. Serve pasta with freshly grated parmesan cheese, more black pepper and extra red pepper flakes, if desired.

Bon Appetit!

xx

Yachna

(Recipe and featured image by api.eats)

P.S.

a guide to the perfect charcuterie board at home.

February 20, 2021