It is a glorious spring day today here in the USA. My gaze goes towards the backyard, where the lawn is bursting with shots of green grass. Deep red buds of maple trees have come out, which on their own, even without any trace of leaves, are stunning to watch.

Ever imagine going to a wellness retreat for a week or so, completely secluded from the outside world? No matter how hefty it maybe on the wallet, most of us have jotted down the option on our individual bucket lists.

Sure, the world is a mess right now. Making sense of the strange, sad circumstances we currently live in is overwhelming. Add to that the stress of your work and household chores, and the hot and humid weather only adds fuel to fire.

For most people, dressing up or looking good includes some attention bestowed on perfecting the hairstyle. Be it the simple elegance of silky, flowing tresses, or the intricacy of complicated braids, or chic updos, hair deserves and gets a lot of attention, praise, and care. It catches the fancy of poets, and enthralls their muses. It is after all, the crowning glory for most women.

Halter necks, spaghetti straps or a lovely sheath dress — any one of these words can conjure a vivid image of a fun night-out with that special someone. Coco Chanel iconised the little black dress, while Christian Dior mainstreamed leopard prints and silk chiffons.

KAJU PULAO (CASHEW PULAO)

There is little to do these days. The virus has struck fear into the stoutest hearts, and most of us have changed our lifestyles to suit the times.

May 28, 2020 – the longest, darkest, scariest night of my life! My beloved father M Ishaque Bhuiyan, lost his life in an excruciating final battle against the cruel COVID-19 virus.

COVID-19 has introduced a new world order. From frequently disinfecting our surroundings to holding virtual meetings instead of the age-old board room conferences, a lot has changed in these two months.

This used to be big a few years ago, but is now back for 2020 couture. Brands like Chloé and Balmain showcased some in the form of dresses, pant suits, flowy skirts, but whichever form you choose, make sure to pay close attention to the material.

It is a no-brainer that short dresses look chic and stylish. An absolute summer staple, it leaves its wearer unruffled and happy. The right one can even take you from day to night and effortlessly so. They are back with a bang, and one is truly spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing!

To help contain the spread of COVID-19 and to set the highest safety standards in these challenging times, Uber has spearheaded the formation of a Transport Safety Alliance (TSA) in partnership with DBL Pharma, Zantrik, Dettol (Reckitt Benckiser) and Fresh Tissue.

For many of us, coffee remains an embedded part of life; a go-to beverage at all times and an aid in running our day-to-day activities. Even during the month of Ramadan, many of us like a cup of hot brewed coffee to seal the day with some raw energy and bring order to our chaotic minds.

It may be a digital age where, instead of paper, notes are taken on a scribble pad app on our smartphones, but a true stationery-nerd knows to keep a pen and notepad in their bags.

There are times when I am overworked or stressed, and for a relief, I picture myself on the sandy beach of Teknaf, waves crashing in and out, tickling my feet, or walking along the abandoned rail line in Lawachara National Park;

Living in Dhaka and spending time in traffic comes hand in hand. Either we find a way to deal with it or just sleep through it.

Ashtanga is a vigorous and demanding physical practice. Maintaining a daily routine of the ‘primary series,’ as the sequence of asanas is called, requires discipline and dedication as well as an entire overhaul of one’s lifestyle.

Relationships are being tested, and now, there is no chance of saying that partners are not spending enough time with each other.

With everyday being a lazy day, we all need closure. Watching movies and reading books all day can become tedious, but a heart-warming snack to go with it can make a pleasant difference. Comfort food can take one’s mood from bored and frustrated to relaxed and at ease.

What I really love about my kitchen is the bright and colourful ceramic and porcelain crockery against the backdrop of my white walls.