tips
A Monsoon Diary by Nicobar

The Head of home design at Nicobar, Arya Nerker, shares a few pointers about turning our homes into a monsoon oasis
Text: Arya Nerker Photos: Nicobar
While every season in India has its own charm, the monsoon is special for more reasons than one. There’s something about grey skies and rainy days that brings with it a feeling of nostalgia, which is also why this is a season suited to days spent indoors, and making time for introspection. Snuggle up indoors with a book, a hot cup of tea, and enjoy the pitter-patter of raindrops, and it really doesn’t matter whether you’re in a high-rise apartment hobnobbing with treetops or in a one-level bungalow looking out at a lush front yard. When you’re spending this much time at home, make it a sanctuary.
— During the monsoons tradition dictates that you break out the pakoras, and whether you’re sticking with the classics or detouring into soupy bowlfuls of noodles or buttery corn on the cob, take some time to make mealtime really special. Dress your table with snack plates, soup bowls, and platters that feature the slightest play of colour (like Nicobar’s Nakano serveware) that’ll make the lush green of fresh veggies really pop. The Kintsu Breakfast Set helps make gloomy mornings a little more reverential, and will hold a hearty serving of whatever’s on the menu.
— Everything is more lush in the monsoon. With the light being so moody outside, channel that same ambience indoors. Keep lights moody and dim, and light a few candles (try the Madurai or Anglesey jar candles) to cast a lovely, flickering glow. Indigo Shibori cushions help to create a pool of inky hues.
— It’s a lovely time to get back to reading, and start to work your way through your reading list. Make downtime positively cocoon-like with a soft throw, either spread out on the sofa or wrapped around you if the weather’s slightly nippy. Settle into a bunch of colourful sink-in cushions and it helps to have the remote within arm’s reach.
— If you can’t go out, bring the outdoors in… fling open the windows and let the cool breeze through your home. Swap out vases of flowers for hefty stalks of palm and banana leaves, and always keep citronella-anything handy to keep the mosquitoes at bay. Blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.
— Use that time spent indoors to catch up on your correspondence, and that’s not email we’re referring to. Nothing beats the pleasure of receiving a handwritten note, so take the time to put pen to paper, and we can guarantee you won’t regret the time you spend on it. Nicobar’s little stationery kits include cards, envelopes and gilded pineapple stickers to seal your special words, and they sit perfectly on any study table, paired with an alphabet mug that’ll replace your pen holder, smooth marble coasters, and a glass vase.
— Finally, use the rain as an excuse (and motivation) to do some no-cost redecoration. With the little extra time you have on your hands, use it to move your furniture around and breathe new life into your interior. It’s the best way to refresh your home without too much effort.
Digital Version: https://goo.gl/Bs9vlq
tips
Self-Care in the Digital Age: Disconnecting to Reconnect

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of notifications and digital distractions. But disconnecting from our devices and reconnecting with ourselves and others is crucial for maintaining our mental and emotional well-being. Let’s explore some simple yet effective strategies to incorporate digital detox into your life and find balance in the digital age.
1. Tech-Free Zones at Home
If you find yourself constantly reaching for your phone, creating tech-free zones in your home can help set boundaries. Designating spaces like the bedroom or dining area for device-free relaxation encourages face-to-face interactions and allows for a more peaceful, mindful environment.
2. Morning Mindfulness
Rather than starting your day by immediately checking emails or social media, try practicing mindfulness in the morning. A few minutes of meditation or deep breathing can set a positive tone for the day and help you stay grounded as you navigate digital tasks.
3. Digital Detox Timeouts
Taking breaks from technology is key to reducing stress. Set aside specific hours each day—perhaps during meals or before bedtime—when you turn off all devices. These timeouts allow you to engage in offline activities that nourish your mind and body.
4. Face-to-Face Conversations
While digital communication is convenient, nothing beats the emotional depth of in-person interactions. Schedule regular meetups with friends or family to nurture these important connections and enjoy meaningful, uninterrupted conversations.
5. Reconnect with Nature
Spending time outdoors is an effective way to disconnect from technology and recharge. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a weekend hike, nature offers a serene environment to reset your mind and body.
Conclusion: Reclaim Your Time, Reclaim Your Life
In an age where technology constantly demands our attention, it’s essential to find time for self-care by stepping away from screens. Whether it’s through digital detox timeouts, mindful mornings, or reconnecting with nature, taking these simple steps can help you regain control over your well-being. Disconnecting isn’t about rejecting technology—it’s about making time for what truly matters.
tips
Expert Tips for Adding Serious Volume to Thin Hair

If you have thin hair and are seeking more fullness, there are specific haircuts that can add a serious boost to your locks. The good news is that thin and fine hair offers great versatility. It generally responds well to heat styling, requires fewer products to achieve a sleek, shiny look, and is typically easy to manage. However, creating volume can be tricky. Thankfully, there are many tips, techniques, and products designed to give your strands extra lift, including strategic blow-drying, volume-boosting, thickening products, and the right haircuts.
Some hairstyles naturally add more volume, especially those that create texture or height. You can use styling tools like wands or straighteners to wrap the hair in different directions, resulting in a tousled, textured look. Using a wide-tooth comb can also soften the movement for a more natural appearance.
Two popular styles for thin hair include a blow-dry and updos. A half-up hairstyle, in particular, creates the illusion of volume at the crown while maintaining length. If your thin hair tends to look limp when air-dried, a blow-dry may be a better option, as it adds lift to the roots, especially when combined with heat protection spray.
Social media, particularly TikTok, offers numerous tips on volumizing updos, from ponytail hacks to the pinch-hair trick. We love a half-updo, but styles like the “Pammy” updo, featuring face-framing sections and light teasing, can add volume as well.
A good haircut can make a world of difference for thin hair by removing wispy ends and adding texture. Avoid razoring or thinning techniques, as these can make thin hair appear even finer. Instead, blunt cuts work best, creating thickness at the base of the haircut.
If long hair is a challenge due to thinning ends, shorter styles can make your hair look healthier and fuller. It is recommended that regular trims and focusing on strong, one-length cuts, particularly styles that fall above the shoulder. This helps create the illusion of thickness.
Bobs and Lobs
Mid-length or shorter hairstyles are ideal for thin hair. It recommends opting for a blunt cut with no layers to create thickness at the ends. Bobs, collarbone cuts, and pixie crops are popular and effective choices as long as the edges remain blunt and chunky.
Face-Framing Layers
For those with textured or curly hair, adding structure with face-framing layers can help. Soft layers around the face can give the appearance of thickness. However, proceed with caution; too many layers can make straight hair look thinner. Hair stylist advises keeping the layers light and minimal to achieve the desired effect without losing volume.
Bardot Fringe
Fringes can add volume to the front of the hair, especially if you’re keeping the back longer. While thin hair may struggle with a fringe that becomes flat or oily, a strong, blunt fringe can help. Be mindful of how much hair you dedicate to your fringe; overdoing it can leave the rest of your haircut looking sparse. A Bardot fringe is a great option for adding fullness and framing the face, it creates a petal-like effect around the face for the illusion of thicker hair.
tips
Capturing the New Beginnings: Unique Newborn Photoshoot Themes

Welcoming a newborn into the family is an extraordinary moment, filled with love, joy, and countless precious memories waiting to be cherished. As a photographer, one of the most rewarding experiences is capturing these early days of a baby’s life through creative and unique photoshoot themes. From whimsical fantasies to heartwarming family moments, there’s a plethora of themes to explore. Here are some distinctive newborn photoshoot themes to inspire
A baby Spa
Create a spa-inspired set with clean lines and minimalist décor to emulate the tranquil environment of a spa. Use a neutral color palette with accents of pale blues, greens, or lavender to promote a sense of serenity. Adorn the space with fluffy bath towels, soft blankets, and decorative elements like potted plants or bamboo accents to enhance the spa aesthetic.
On Frame : Nitara Srinish (Pearle Maaney)
Photography Team : swararanephotography
Sunflower Baby
Choose attire that complements the sunflower theme while keeping your baby comfortable and stylish. Opt for outfits in soft, natural fabrics with sunflower prints or accents, such as a sunflower-patterned onesie or a yellow dress paired with denim for a charming look.
Photography Team : Image Tots
The Wizard Baby
The magic of Hogwarts comes to life as we capture the enchantment and wonder of childhood imagination. From spellbinding props to mystical backdrops, every detail is crafted to transport you to a world of wizardry and adventure. So, dust off your wand, don your robes, and prepare for a journey into the spellbinding realm of Harry Potter!
Photography Team: Bliss Photoart
Moon Baby
Create a celestial-inspired set that captures the magic of the moonlit sky. Utilize soft, neutral colors like deep blues and silver or white hues to mimic the nighttime atmosphere. You can also incorporate twinkling string lights or LED stars to simulate the sparkle of distant constellations, and adorn the set with celestial décor such as crescent moon cutouts, star-shaped pillows, and plush clouds to enhance the dreamy ambiance.
Photography Team: Pixon Moments
Enchanted Forest Baby
Transport your little one into a magical woodland realm with an enchanted forest theme. Adorn the set with lush greenery, delicate flowers, and fairy lights to create a dreamy atmosphere. Incorporate whimsical props like fairy wings, woodland creatures, and tiny toadstool stools for an ethereal touch.
Photography Team: littlebigframes
Little Chef
Stir up some fun with a playful little chef photoshoot theme. Deck out your set with miniature kitchen props such as pots, pans, wooden spoons, and chef hats. Dress your little one in a tiny chef’s apron and hat, and capture adorable moments of them “cooking” with plush food props like felt fruits and vegetables
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