Orbs Captured In Disneyworld, Orlando Photographs
February 27, 2009
Few weeks ago, we rescued ourselves from the overpowering, frigid weather of New Jersey and decided to go to Orlando, Florida. Our cheeks needed some coloring and who can resist the charm of Mickey Mouse and his gang. We had a wonderful ten day stay there and participated in every possible activity. I will engage you in our fun-filled family adventure at Disneyworld in our next posts.
Before the fireworks could begin there was a parade with glittering carriages and dancing bears, glowing fishes, cute pigs all dressed up and glowing in lights. They passed through the main street with such pomp and gaiety that most people felt like dancing along with them, swaying to the beat.
Next Tinker Bell, flew down from the Magic castle waving at everyone and the crowd went “OOH!!” and a loud round of applause followed. Well, she was at a very high altitude and deserved all the credit for it.
To add to this excitement, the illuminated Magic Castle kept changing it colors. It was a spectacular site and I couldn’t resist but take pictures of every color change. Each shade created a different image of the castle. Now I know why Walt Disney gave this castle the name, Magic Kingdom.
As I continued snapping pictures, I could see the orbs on all of them. Some faint ones while others with immense density and depth. Some orbs almost looked like the Moon.
I guess all forms of life couldn’t resist the jubilation that Disneyworld offers.
Not sure what orbs are? Follow this link to get an indepth understanding.
©Nayna Chakrabarty, 2007-2009. All Rights Reserved.
Extreme Fitness
February 26, 2009
Are you tired of the same workout regime? Running on the treadmill, taking an aerobics class with the regular crowd or solitary cycling? Don’t despair, you are not alone.
Just like our structured work life, our exercise routine also gets monotonous. We do the workouts without thinking and wonder why our bodies are not changing for the better. If the mind is unsatisfied and bored, these feelings do get transmitted to the body as well.
Here is a breakthrough routine that I tried few days ago and it was refreshing. Mind you, this is not meant for everyone especially not for beginners.
On a bone-chilling evening, I decided to hit the boardwalk for a sprint. Sounds crazy doesn’t it but actually it was a lot of fun. New Jersey is really cold this time of the year and we had a record frigid temperature in 2009.
It was fairly windy that evening, and I decided to take a chance. I could see people returning home from work, walking feebly, protected in layers of woollies. At -6 degrees Centigrade, 21 degrees Fahrenheit, I stepped out in tracks, T-shirt, a sweater, a beanie, gloves and of course my Nike Shox.
My running course was the boardwalk alongside the Hudson River from Jersey City corner. The day before we had a shower of flurries and the snow was over an inch deep. The loyal city employees ploughed through the snow clearing the sidewalks and driveway. They piled the snow at the side of the road. One end of the boardwalk was closed to runners so I am sure you can imagine the extent of snowing and its accumulated layers.
Parallel to my view is the New York City. The Empire State building had an overpowering effect on all the surrounding skyscrapers. The air was crisp almost slapping my cheeks as a started with a light warm-up. After one round, I picked up speed. The wind pushed me from behind and my legs worked as if they were automated. Clearly, I was thrilled. No effort but just a thrust from Mother Nature’s hand. But when I had to circle back, the wind was my enemy. It kept pushing me behind. But hey, this is resistance training. (Wink!!)
I jogged on finishing almost my third round on this trail when the sun began to set. The New York skyline was magical and to make this scenic wonder truly divine, the Norwegian Gem sailed. It looked like a luxury cruise passing through the Hudson. The river glimmered and the orange light reflected from all the skyscrapers, bouncing on the liner. I stood for while wondering which warm country this could be heading when unusual squeaky sounds caught my attention.
Now what would that be? I looked around, the place was desolate. I was a little freaked out as I was the only brave heart standing in this icy weather. I kept scrutinizing every nook and cranny of the snow covered benches and then realized the lamposts were shaking in the wind. I finished my fourth round shortly, getting surprised looks from the few ladies returning from work.
“Has she lost her mind?” I am sure they must be mumbling that under their scarves.
I couldn’t run further as the wind carried a lot of snow on the wooden planks. There was a danger of slipping. So I returned home.
My facial skin had turned red and I experienced slight burning sensation when I entered the lobby of my apartment complex but the rest of the body felt energized. So if you want something to push yourself beyond your usual workout, then go ahead, follow my extreme fitness regime.
Please note this form of exercise is not meant for beginners, people suffering from high blood pressure, chest congestion or asthma. Only hardcore professionals should attempt this. The rest can enjoy reading and imagining the experience in their minds.
Motion Sickness
February 23, 2009
Motion sickness is not always related to car travel but it is also interlinked with sea sickness and air travel sickness. Its symptoms range from light headedness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
Some people are also affected by motion sickness when watching movies in theatres, giant dome (IMAX) and 3D screens. This specially gets triggered by an action sequence in the movie.
Motion Sickness Prevention And Remedies:
1) When traveling by car or bus if you tend to feel motion sickness, sit up straight, roll down the window and take in deep breath.
2) Avoid reading or working on your laptop during car travel.
3) Ginger in the form of candy or crystallized ginger pieces should be sucked on when experiencing light headedness.
4) Clove pieces can be chewed and its stinging sensation in the mouth helps to control nausea.
5) Try to focus on a steady point to keep the mind away from the rocking boat, plane or car.
6) If you find it difficult to focus then look at the horizon and other sources of nature to soothe yourself.
7) Air sickness can be reduced if you book your seat close to the wing section as this part normally experiences less movement.
8) Avoid eating heavy meals during your journey. Spicy and pungent foods can trigger nausea.
9) Motion sickness can be triggered by bumpy roads. If you are traveling by road, make sure the car has good shock absorbers.
10) If you are traveling by bus then avoid seats at the rear.
11) Avoid the company of smokers while traveling because the cigarette smoke can affect those suffering from travel sickness.
12) If you are taking long haul flights, it is best to consult your doctor.
Many people resort to wearing air sickness patches and motion sickness bands while others take Dramamine tablets. These do have side effects and those traveling alone should be aware of them. Simple care and precautions can help along the way so one should be geared to take care of themselves in all situations.
