ESSENTIAL SKIN CARE TIPS FOR THE HARSH WINTER

Maintaining Great Skin This Winter:

The harsh winter has kicked in and everyone is feeling the chill, and as we all know, changing seasons always plays havoc with the skin. The cold winds, low humidity and the need to wear warm clothes often leave the skin feeling rough and dry. As the skin becomes sensitive, there is an increased risk of rashes and allergies this time of the year. Here are some easy tips to make your skin look vibrant and radiant this winter.

Cleanse your Skin:

It is imperative to cleanse the skin, but using the right cleanser is the most crucial decision to avoid causing excessive dryness. As the skin is naturally acidic with pH around 5.5, a pH neutral cleanser would be ideal for this time of the year. If you wish to use a non-medicated cleanser, then opting for a cleanser containing glycerin or mineral oils would be best.

Quick Tip: For those who prefer using natural cleansers, oatmeal, milk, gram flour mixed in yogurt or raw milk are your options as they work as a very good cleanser and have the added benefit of hydrating the skin. Oils like olive oil, almond oil may be used as make-up removers. Those who suffer from acne can use thermal spring water based make-up removers which are non-comedogenic i.e. a skin-care product or cosmetic that is specially formulated so as not to cause blocked pores.

Moisturize your Skin:

Moisturizing the skin is probably the most important part of skincare in winters. Those who have dry or extremely sensitive skin, using body butters or a moisturizer containing urea, lactic acid, 4-5 times a day would be ideal. People with normal skin may use moisturizers containing liquid paraffin, mineral oil or glycerin. Pure glycerin is also very good for the skin.

Quick Tip: During winters, lips, feet, elbows and knuckles need extra attention. While Petrolatum is very good for the lips, moisturizers containing glycolic acid can be used to gently take away the dead layer of skin cells around the heel and elbow.

Scrub off the Dead Skin:

Using a gentle exfoliating scrub will help you get rid of the dead layer of cells and enhance the benefits of the moisturizer. However, a scrub should be used only 2 times a week at best.

Quick Tip: Lightly powdered sugar in honey works as a good natural scrub, as the sugar exfoliates the skin and honey hydrates the skin.

Apply Sunscreen:

It’s a common myth that sunscreens can be avoided during winters as the visible light index is low and hence one does not need to use a sunscreen. Exposure to UV light can cause premature ageing and pigmentation of the skin, so it’s advisable to use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.

Quick Tip: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping out and repeat it after every 2 hours. Using a lotion or cream based sunscreen would be best as it will give you the benefits of UV protection and moisturizing the skin at the same time.

Revise you Skincare Routine:

Changing your regular skin care products is important during winters, especially for those who use anti-ageing creams, which contain glycolic acid or retinoids, as they make the skin dry. You may have to mix it with a good moisturizer or the quantity applied may need to be reduced to give best results.

Quick Tip: It is advisable to see your dermatologist for a daytime and night time routine suitable for this season.

Face Packs:

To keep dryness at bay, using a face pack is essential. A pack made of honey, fullers earth and rose water can provide you with deep cleansing and hydrating potential. The pack may be used 2 times a week.

Quick Tip: Lemon, vinegar and yoghurt can be used as fruit peels as they contain natural fruit acids. You can even add a bit of lemon juice to your regular face pack to peel away the dead layer of cells and also lay down collagen in the skin.

Replenish your Anti-oxidants:

The general body processes and exposure to UV light and environmental toxins produces free radicals in the body, which cause damage to cells and destroy them. Anti-oxidants are nutrients which quench these free radicals and thus prevent damage to the cells. Plant sources like fruits and vegetables are the best sources of anti-oxidants. The brighter the fruits and vegetables, the higher is the amount of anti-oxidants in them.

Quick Tip: Include tomatoes with lettuce, blueberries and yellow pepper in your diet, along with plenty of salads and vegetable juices. You can blend beetroot, carrot, leek, cucumber and aloe vera.

The Author of the Article

Muhammad Tayyab

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ROHTAS QILA – STANDING HIGH SINCE 1541

Rohtas Qila

Another magnificent structure from the Mughal era that still stands is the Rohtas fort, or Qila-e-Rohtas, as it is also known.

The fort was ordered to be built in 1541 by Sher Sha Suri after he defeated the Mughal emperor Humayun. Sher Sha Suri built the fort at the strategic location of Rohtas. The fort lies on the Grand Trunk Road between the mountainous region of Afghanistan and the plains of Punjab near modern day Jhelum.

One of the more impressive facts about this fort is that the fort was never taken by force (i.e. was never stormed) and survives intact till today. The fort has massive walls that run for more than 4 kilometers. These walls are the main fortification of the fort. The walls have multiple bastions and monumental gateways.

The Qila-e-Rohtas is a prime exponent of early Muslim military architecture coming out of Central and South Asia. This fort is nothing short of majestic and surpasses various citadels of that time in splendor and size. It is in fact the only architectural example from the time of Sher Sha Suri that has survived till date.

Rohtas Over The Centuries:

The fort was envisioned by Sher Sha Suri after he had defeated Humayun at Chausa. There was a dual purpose to the fort:

• To curtail the hostilities from the locals called the Potohars
• To serve as a precaution against Humayun whose return was inevitable.

The fort was however taken by Humayun 10 years after the death of Sher Sha Suri without a fight. The conqueror was Tatar Khan Kasi.

The fort remained under the control of the Mughals till the time of Aurangazeb. Following that period the fort changed hands between the Durrani’s and the Sikh’s. During this time however, the fort did not serve its actual purpose and ended up with a village within its walls.

Inside The Majestic Fort:

Because of the intended purpose of the building, there were not many structures that were built within the walls of the fort. Most of the area was used for the production of food for the garrison.

The few structures that were made within the walls included a Shahi Masjid situated near the Kabuli gate of the fort. The Masjid is not very large and has a prayer hall and a small courtyard.

The fort also has its own water supply. The water supply came from structures called Baolis (stepped wells). There were three of these which were carved into the limestone bedrock.

Overall the Rohtas fort is an amazing construction and a magnificent place to visit and a must-visit location for all history buffs.

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SWAT ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM INAUGURATED

Swat Archaeological Museum

After a gap of about seven years, scores of people made their way to the newly-reconstructed Swat Archaeological Museum on Thursday after it was reopened for the public a day earlier.

The visitors were excited to not only see a massive collection of artefacts from the Gandhara civilization but also the building’s state-of-the-art design.

“This new building is so spacious and wide that one feels a great delight in walking among ancient civilizations. It is truly an enjoyable experience,” said Gulranga Ali, a student of University of Swat visiting the museum with her classmates.

The museum has been designed by Italian architects Ivano Marati and Candida Vassallo, and set up in collaboration with an Italian engineer along with engineers from UET Peshawar.

Sumera, a university lecturer said, “I had always wanted to arrange a tour for my students but couldn’t because the museum was closed. When we heard it was reopened, I arranged a visit immediately.” She added the museum tour was a good opportunity for students to learn about the area’s history by taking in the historical wonders of the region.

Inauguration

The Swat Archaeological Museum was inaugurated by Adviser to the Chief Minister on Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Amjad Khan Afridi along with Italian Ambassador Adriano Chiodi Cianfarani on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Cianfarani said, “The presence of Italian archaeological missions in Pakistan dates back to 1955 when they started work under the guidance of Professor Giuseppe Tucci. During its nearly 60 years here, the Italian mission obtained great results.” Cianfarani added Pakistan boasts of a rich historical heritage that needs to be known and understood within the country and abroad.

The CM’s adviser thanked the Italian government and Italian Archaeological Mission for reconstructing the Swat museum. “Opening it for the public is a huge achievement and will contribute to the revival of tourism in Swat,” said Afridi.

He added the provincial government understands the importance of archaeology and the role it can play in promoting tourism and boosting the economy. “We have been working to promote religious and cultural tourism in K-P because 30% of the country’s archaeological sites are in the province,” said Afridi.

The Swat Archaeological Museum was reconstructed at an estimated cost of $700,000 under a project funded by the Pakistan-Italian Debt Swap Agreement and implemented by the Archaeology Community Tourism – Field School Project.

The museum has been designed by Italian architects Ivano Marati and Candida Vassallo, and set up in collaboration with an engineer from the University of Naples Federico II and engineers from the University of Engineering and Technology, Peshawar.

“Originally constructed with Italian contribution between 1956 and 1963, the old building was considered to be at risk of partial collapse when a static analysis was conducted,” Director of the Italian Archaeological Mission in Pakistan, Dr Luca Maria Olivieri told.

He added a part of the building was demolished while another was improved and included in the new construction. According to Olivieri, the new museum was designed as per anti-seismic principles, making it the most structurally advanced building in Pakistan.

Local art associations have welcomed the restoration. “A museum is an institution where people learn and see an area’s history and understand its cultural heritage,” said Suvastu Arts and Culture Association Chairman Usman Ulasyar. “It is a great attraction for locals as well as tourists. We are thankful to the Italians for reconstructing it for us.”

K-P Archaeology Director Dr Abdul Samad told that the museum is one of the best in the country and houses a large number of artifacts from the Ghandhara civilization. “The opening of the museum will boost economy as more and more tourists will visit Swat,” he added.

PAKISTAN’S FIRST HELICOPTER TOUR SERVICE LAUNCHED IN KARACHI

Karachi: Princely Jets, the country’s only private jet and helicopter Charter Company, launched a ‘City Helicopter Tour’ service here on Tuesday.

This is the first of its kind service in the country where the general public has been given the option to enjoy a panoramic view of Karachi via helicopter.

Sharing the details of the service, CEO Princely Jets Ghouse Akbar said now people could enjoy a helicopter ride for only Rs 25,000. This is a common feature of tourism-related services offered in the developed world. All major metropolitan cities of the world including London, Paris, New York and Dubai etc offer such a service to domestic and foreign tourists.

Through this initiative, Princely Jets wants to promote domestic tourism as well as a soft image of the country to the foreign world as chartered helicopters and chartered planes are commonly used in the developed world for business as well as leisure purposes. Ghouse informed that the helicopter ride would follow a well-defined route through which tourists would be able to witness memorable panoramic view of all the major sites of the city.

Princely Jets offers customers the opportunity to see the city of Karachi and the surrounding area in a whole new way – from the skies.

Ghouse added that “Princely Jets experiences are designed to be something you will remember for the rest of your life. We design each tour with the goal that guests will be talking about the memories of this helicopter tour in the years to come”.

PAKISTAN BECOME CERN’S NEWEST ASSOCIATE MEMBER

LONDON: Pakistan on Friday beat India in the race to become an associate member of Cern (European Organization for Nuclear Research), the world’s largest nuclear physics laboratory that recently found evidence of “God particle”.

A senior official of Cern had told in an exclusive interview in London that bureaucratic red tape in India had slowed down the country’s intentions of joining Cern as an associate member.

On Friday, Cern director general Rolf Heuer and the chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission Ansar Parvez signed in Islamabad in the presence of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, a document admitting Pakistan to Cern Associate Membership, subject to ratification by the government of Pakistan.

“Pakistan has been a strong participant in CERN’s endeavors in science and technology since the 1990s,” said Rolf Heuer. “Bringing nations together in a peaceful quest for knowledge and education is one of the most important missions of Cern. Welcoming Pakistan as a new associate member state is therefore for our organization a very significant event.”

PARENTS USING GIFTS TO MOTIVATE KIDS MAY RAISE MATERIALISTIC ADULTS

Washington: A new study has revealed that certain parenting tactics can lead to materialistic attitudes in adulthood. Parents who use material goods as part of their parenting techniques may be setting children up for difficulties later in adulthood.

Study:

The study from the University of Missouri and the University of Illinois at Chicago found that parents who use material goods as part of their parenting techniques may be setting children up for difficulties later in adulthood. Researcher Marsha Richins said that their research suggests that children who receive many material rewards from their parents will likely continue rewarding themselves with material goods when they are grown, which could be problematic. Richins added that their research highlights the value of examining childhood circumstances and parenting practices to understand consumer behaviors of adults. Richins found that rewarding children with gifts when they have accomplished something, such as making the soccer team or getting straight As, giving gifts as a way to show affection and punishing children by taking away their possessions, such as a favorite toy or video game are three parenting strategies that lead to greater materialism. Richins said that loving parents tend to provide their children with material rewards and one explanation for the link between material rewards and later materialism is that children who receive these rewards are more likely than others to use possessions to define and enhance themselves, an essential element of materialism.

The researchers also found that a relationship exists between parental rejection and materialism. Children who felt that their parents either did not have time for them or were disappointed in them were more likely to be materialistic and adults who received both material rewards and material punishments as children are more likely to admire people with expensive possessions. Lan Chaplin suggested that its ok to want to buy things for your children, but remember to encourage them to be grateful for all the people and things they have in their lives and each time children express their gratitude, they become more aware of how fortunate they are, which paves the way for them to be more generous and less materialistic. Spend time with your children and model warmth, gratitude and generosity to help curb materialism. 

The study has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Consumer Research. 

TOP 4 TASTY FOODS FOR WINTER

People who live in countries which receive all four seasons are thought to be lucky, both; in terms of nature and economically. They enjoy all the seasons and the blessings they bring along. For some of us the delicious food products and eatables are on top yet for others it’s the weather.

Winter, along with the winter sports and outdoor activities brings the widest range of food products and eatables. Things one consumes all round the year become special during winters.

People are seen gathered around fires, huddled up, conversations, sharing moments, making memories for the future.

Following are the top 4 tasty foods for winter:

Chocolate:

The winter along with its other goodies, brings a great weather for hot chocolate. Imagine sitting in your veranda or balcony on a foggy winter morning and enjoying a mug of creamy hot chocolate. Ahhh! There’s nothing like it. Is there?

And it’s not that hard to make either. Heat up milk to a desired temperature - Careful! Because when too hot it can cause serious burns - and add either chocolate powder or chocolate syrup and stir to mix it uniformly. For a topping, either add cream or some more chocolate powder.

Hot Coffee:

Hot Coffee’s another one of winter’s blessings. Coffee can be enjoyed although the year but especially in winter.

There’s nothing better than brewing your own coffee with coffee beans. But if you aren’t the ‘earn your coffee’ type; you can always visit a coffee shop for a mug. And of course there always will be the instant coffee which comes in ready to make sachets.

Soups:

Winter is almost incomplete without a soup. Winter also brings the common cold with it. It’s a menace. You can’t hang out with friends (it’s contagious) and what not. But what it does is that it makes your mom’s/ wife’s / girlfriend’s heart melt. What does that mean? Yes, it’s Soup time.

Well you don’t have to be sick to enjoy soup. One can make their own at home, go out to a restaurant and order, get an instant packet from the market or just get it delivered from the nearest Chinese place.

Dry Fruits:

Dry fruits such as almonds, cashew, walnuts, peanuts, nuts, etc. are a winter weakness. Although available throughout the year, they are best enjoyed in the winter season.

People use them as ingredients in soups, sweet dishes, stews, recipes of rice and Chinese dishes.

Roasted almonds are served as starters/ appetizers in restaurants.

7 SURPRISING WAYS SALT CAN RESTORE YOUR SKIN AND BODY

Salt is loaded with minerals, including iodine and sodium, all of which play a key role in our skin’s health, function, and cellular communication. When the skin’s mineral balance is not nomral, symptoms such as dryness, dullness, irritation, and blotchiness ensue, especially as the colder, dryer weather in Pakistan sets in. Bringing salt from the kitchen into your beauty routine can help balance and improve hydration, strengthen the protective barrier of our skin, reduce bloating and kick-start the cell-to-cell communication signals that slow down with age. 

Balancing Mask

Both salt and honey have anti-inflammatory properties to soothe skin and calm breakouts and irritation. They also help to balance oil production and retain hydration in the layers of skin where it’s needed most.

Try it: Mix two teaspoons of salt (preferably iodised) with four teaspoons raw honey to create a spreadable paste. Apply evenly to clean, dry skin, avoiding eye area. Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes. Before rinsing, soak a washcloth in very warm water, and gently wring out. Lay the warm washcloth on your face for 30 seconds. Use your fingers to gently exfoliate in a circular motion while rinsing your skin thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with your usual skin-care routine.

Softening Body Scrub

Salt is a gentle natural exfoliate that sloughs off dead skin cells. It also has minerals to soften skin and restore hydration and moisture.

Try it: Mix a quarter-cup of salt and a half-cup of olive oil into a thick paste. If desired, add 10 drops of your favourite essential oil. Apply in the shower with a washcloth, loofah, or the palms of your hands, gently scrubbing your skin in a circular motion. Your skin will instantly feel baby soft and smooth.

Anti-Dandruff Scalp Treatment

Salt helps loosen and remove existing flakes while stimulating blood circulation for a healthy scalp. The ingredient also absorbs excess oil or sebum and moisture to prevent fungal growth and inhibit the root of dandruff.

Try it: Part your hair a few times, and sprinkle one to two teaspoons of salt on your scalp. Using wet fingers, massage your scalp gently and thoroughly for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash and condition your hair with your regular products. The results will be immediate and very satisfying.

Teeth Whitener

Salt and baking soda are both gentle abrasives that will help remove hard stains and brighten teeth almost instantly. Salt also contains a natural source of fluoride, which is a bonus for your teeth and gums.

Try it: Mix one teaspoon of salt and two teaspoons of baking powder. Dip a damp toothbrush in the mixture, and brush teeth normally. If the taste is too intense for you, try putting a dab of toothpaste on the brush before dipping it in the mixture.

Natural Mouth Wash

Salt acts as a natural disinfectant to kill the bacteria and plaque that builds up between teeth and also is the main cause of bad breath and gingivitis.

Try it: Mix together a half-teaspoon of salt, a half-teaspoon of baking soda, and a quarter-cup warm water until the salt dissolves in it completely. Swish the solution around in your mouth for two minutes and between teeth. Spit, then rinse.

Nail brightening treatment

Salt softens cuticles and skin plus strengthens nails. Baking soda and lemon work to reduce yellowing and stains for brighter, healthier-looking nails.

Try it: Mix one teaspoon of salt, one teaspoon of baking soda, one teaspoon of lemon juice, and a half-cup warm water in a small bowl. Soak nails in the solution for 10 minutes, and then scrub with an unused soft tooth brush. Rinse hands, and moisturize.

Relaxing bath

Salt absorbs dirt, grime, and toxins and cleanses your skin’s pores deeply. Salt’s mineral content helps restore the protective barrier in skin and helps it hold hydration. You may notice that your skin won’t wrinkle or prune after a good, long soak in salted water, which is evidence that a salt bath helps the skin retain its moisture. The naturally occurring minerals in salt may also help reduce water retention or bloating in the body.

Try it: Add one-third cup of salt to a tub filled with warm water, and make sure to dissolve the salt. Soak for 15 to 30 minutes. 

LIST OF SOUTH ASIAN COUNTRIES

South Asia Map

South Asia:

South Asia or Southern Asia is the southern region of the Asian continent, which comprises the sub-Himalayan countries and, for some authorities, adjoining countries to the west and east. Topographically, it is dominated by the Indian Plate, which rises above sea level as northern parts of India south of the Himalayas and the Hindu Kush. South Asia is bounded on the south by the Indian Ocean and on land (clockwise, from west) by West Asia, Central Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia.

List of South Asian Countries:

Following is the list of South Asian countries:

•  Afghanistan

•  Bangladesh

•  Bhutan

•  India

•  Maldives

•    Nepal

•  Pakistan

•  Sri Lanka

Capitals of South Asian Countries:  

Following are the capitals of South Asian countries:

• Colombo

• Dhaka

• Kabul

• Kathmandu

• Islamabad

• Malé

• New Delhi

• Thimphu

PROVINCES OF PAKISTAN

PAKISTAN: Pakistan is basically divided into 4 provinces and other territories but now Gilgit Baltistan is also called a province. Previously, Gilgit was under control of Federal Government but now she has given a separate status. 

Pakistan came into being on Aug 14, 1947. It is a large country almost 1.5 times that of France. To distribute the job and perform country’s work efficiently, Pakistan is divided into 4 provinces. Each province has lawmaking national assembly which is directed by Chief Minister of Province. The names given to the provinces of Pakistan are in reference to the major language spoken in it. 

Punjab:

PUNJ means five and AB means water. Punjab’s literal meaning is the province of 5 rivers. The name Punjab is also in accordance with the major language Punjabi spoken in it. This is the most productive and fertile land of the country because of the five rivers. Like other provinces, people of Punjab also have their own characteristic and distinctive traditions. Lahore is the capital Punjab.

Sindh:

As Sindhi is the foremost language spoken in Sindh so, this province is given the name of Sindh. Karachi, the largest city of Pakistan is located in Sindh. Karachi is located along Arabian Sea so, Pakistan has also a beach in Karachi. Moen Jo Daro, an ancient civilization is also located in Sindh. Sindh is also credited to the Indus river and is also housed of the Indus civilization.

Khyber Pakhtoon Khuwah:

NWFP is the old name of Khyber Pakhtoon Khuwah. The name changed to KPK is in accordance with the Pakhtoons living in this province. Pathans or Pakhtoon live in this province. Strict Tribal system dominates the province.

Baluchistan:

The southwestern province is very famous because this is not only the largest province of Pakistan but also has many natural resources. Baluchistan accounts for 40% of total are of Pakistan.  

Gilgit Baltistan:

This is the site of great beauty in Pakistan. If you're lucky enough to travel to Pakistan, then you should definitely travel to Gilgit. One of the nature's marvel in Gilgit is the Heart-Shaped lake.

Heart Shaped lake in Astore, Gilgit, Pakistan