Cartoon tees are back in vogue

After T-shirts with sarcastic quotes, now it's time for some animation.

No matter how old we are, we all love cartoons. Probably this is why, the latest trend today is to sport your favourite cartoon or animation character on your T-shirt. Currently, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Hello Kitty T-shirts are the fashion industry's favourites.

Famous cartoon characters on your tees are not the only trend, many celebrities have been spotted sporting their own quirky illustrations,too. The most famous among them is Kate Moss; she is the star of the collection and the model looks striking in T-shirt form.

After all, there are celebs who like to channel their inner child, and call us crazy, but we think they do so by wearing cutesy cartoons on their clothing.

Pink was spotted in an animated T-shirt that said 'POP!'. Avril Lavigne usually is spotted in T-shirt that has some animation or a cartoon character. Even Keith Urban was seen sporting a whacky duck cartoon T-shirt. That's not all, Bollywood diva, Katrina Kaif has been seen on many occasions sporting one as well. The style is playful and makes one appear approachable and even friendly.

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Add personality to your home decor

Your home decor should define the person you are. It should reflect your interests.

A home is your most most prized and intimate space. But does it reflect the person you are?

Are you wasting your time and energy in having a decor just because it is in vogue or you just want it to be appreciated by your friends? Is it possible that a person who doesn't really know you walks into your home and get a feel of who exactly you are as an individual and what are your tastes? It's time to bring that touch of your personality to your decor.

There's a thumb rule: Just like your wardrobe, your decor should reflect personal style. So, if you are a cinephile, then you can source those lovely film posters to add a unique decor to your home. Similarly if you are a person who loves entertaining friends and having a party in a relaxed way then your home should reflect this. In that case, you can have informal entertainment zone where people can put their feet up and soak in the warmth of your home.

Think what are your preferences and add pieces that reflect it. So, add rugs, floor cushions, table lamps to add your unique touch to the decor.

While buying items for your home, ask yourself, "Does this define my personality?" If it doesn't, then don't buy one. Your home is not something to flaunt, it is a just reflection of who you are as a person.

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Top 5 big lies about marriage

Marriage is often seen as fix-all - dreamy singles think it will make them happy, restless men and women think it will make them feel complete. We take apart the five most popular cons that mar marriage.

I won't be lonely
Being lonely or having company has nothing to do with getting married. Many loners remain so even after marriage. A long-suffering woman shared her woes, she said that though she was married, she was always lonely. "I never felt that we shared anything. When I spoke, he heard but never listened. On holidays, I never felt that we were together." Those who are lonely and feel that marriage will be a solution, need to analyse and identify what they are feeling.

Anytime sex
Sexual desire and frequency is dependent on libido, compatibility and the acceptance of the word 'sex' among both partners. Many partners, who have a deep-seated resentment for each other and are constantly bickering, are not having enough sex. Maybe one of them thought that marriage would satisfy their sexual desires, but that didn't happen, and so, the blame-game continues in other spheres of life.

I won't work
This is quite an unrealistic thought, as increasingly, more couples realise that marriage does not mean financial security. Especially women realise that the lifestyle and aspirations one has calls for both spouses to generate income. Financial security is rare if you are not taking care of it yourself; there is no escape route. And if you have not discussed this with your partner, he or she may feel resentful of being considered a meal ticket.

Big happy family
Most of us are conditioned to win over the love and affection of the in-laws. We bend over backwards, expect to be loved immediately and are baffled when the feeling is not reciprocated. The biological imperative of birthing gives rise to a lot of unconditional love and acceptance which is hormonally absent in in-laws. So it is advised to give respect, love and attention, but don't expect much.

Kids can fix it all
Couples feel that unhappiness in a marriage will be sorted by parenthood. This is another misconception because if there is incompatibility, a child would actually come into an unwelcoming environment and may even be resented. Parenthood should be a well-thought out decision considering aspects such as - Are we ready? Do both of us want children? Do we have all the help we need? Do we agree on core values?

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What’s your word this year?

Selfie is the word of 2013 as declared by the Oxford Dictionary. TOI speaks to celebs about other words that should have been included

Recently, the word selfie — self portraits taken on your phones or tabs, which has variations like welfie (workout selfie) and drelfie (drunk selfie) — was declared the word of the year by Oxford dictionary. Twerking gave selfie tough competition this year. But the fact that celebrities across the world endorse selfies put it in the lead. So much so that even though Oxford usually declares two different words for the UK and US, this year, selfie found acceptance in both regions.

"Words like selfies and photo-bombing describe everyone's attitude these days. People want to be seen everywhere, all the time. Narcissism should have been the word of the year instead," says actor Rajeev Ravindran.

City-based comedienne Rubi Chakravarti feels that words with a touch of the local language are even better. "We are coining new words every day. For example, a Tamilian friend of mine, who has hung out with me for a long time uses the word 'boka-a**' (a mix of Bengali and English that means stupid-a**) a lot. But selfie has become more famous because Oxford fancies it," she says.

Actor and comedian Vir Das, meanwhile, thinks that the word jugaad would have been apt in the Indian context. He says, "Having seen the condition of the Indian political system, I feel that jugaad is the perfect word to describe it. It stands for the Indian government, its mentality and the system in general, in which a lot of jugaad has happened this year."

Words made famous earlier
Sudoku 2005
Carbon footprint 2007
Unfriend 2009
FOMO 2011

Other words that made news this year
Bitcoin: Digital currency
Twerk: Sexually provocative dance move made famous by Miley Cyrus
Binge-watching: Watching back-to-back episodes of a TV show in rapid succession
Showrooming: Checking out a product in a showroom before buying it online
Photobombing: Inserting oneself in the field of view of a photograph

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8 exercises that burn stomach fat fast

If building a six-pack were easy almost everyone would have sexy abs. It's not only the actual effort that's hard, it's also knowing "how" to burn stomach fat correctly is a challenge.

Our goal is to show you the best and practical way to burn stomach fat, so you can finally flaunt a well toned stomach. We have Mike Jackson - Nutritional Consultant and Physique Transformation Specialist to help you get toned and sexy abs. Read on and burn the unwanted calories with these exercises to burn stomach fat quickly.

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 1: Running or walking
Okay, you're probably thinking, 'How does moving your legs shrink those love handles?' Well, the truth is there's no way to target belly fat. Your genetics get to decide where the fat settles in your body, so the best thing to do is start moving.

As you exercise, calories are burned and your body fat percentage decreases. So, exercising not only helps you lose belly fat, it also sheds fat from other areas. Running and walking are two of the best fat-burning exercises. Plus, the only equipment you need is a good pair of shoes. Between the two, running burns more calories, but walking really isn't too far behind.

Running and walking can be part of your interval training routine and do not forget to warm up and cool down if your take up running for weight loss.

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 2: Elliptical trainer
Some of us no longer have the strong joints we had as teenagers. Jogging is out of the question and walking doesn't cut it. The good news is elliptical trainers provide an intense, low impact cardio workout. In fact, a 145-lb. person can burn about 300 calories in 30 minutes on an elliptical trainer. That's about as many calories as running burns, but without the joint wear-and-tear.

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 3: Bicycling
Bicycling is another great low impact cardio exercise. Not to mention, it's a great way to travel or see the countryside. Depending on the speed and intensity the average person can burn between 250 to 500 calories during a 30-minute bike ride.

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 4: The bicycle exercise
Burning body and belly fat with cardio exercises is half the battle. Next is strengthening abdominal muscles so you have something to show once the fat is shed. In a recent study, ab exercises were ranked from best to worst. The bicycle exercise ranked as #1 because it requires abdominal stabilization, body rotation, and more abdominal muscle activity.

These are some bicycle exercises you can do before you hop on your bike:
-Lie on your back with hands behind your head
-Raise knees to your chest while lifting head and shoulders off the ground
-Bring the right elbow to your left knee and straighten the right leg
-Switch sides - bring the left elbow to your right knee and straighten the left leg
-Continue switching sides to simulate a pedaling motion
-Breathing should be relaxed and even
-Do 1-3 sets with 12-16 repetitions

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast #5: The Captain's chair leg raise
For this exercise you require a captain's chair which is found in most gyms. The chair has a padded back and armrests with grips. Your legs hang free.

-Stand on the chair and grab the hand bars
-Keep your back flat against the pad while raising knees to your chest
-Then lower legs back down
-For added intensity, keep legs straight when you raise them
-Do 1-3 sets with 12-16 repetitions

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 6: Exercise ball crunch
This exercise needs a lot of stabilization which engages more muscles. You'll need an exercise ball.

-Lie on the ball so your lower back is supported and feet are firmly planted on the ground
-Place hands across chest or behind the head
-Contract abs and lift your torso up and forward
-Lower back down
-Keep the ball stable during each crunch
-Exhale when you crunch; inhale when you lower back down
-Do 1-3 sets with 12-16 repetitions

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 7: Vertical leg crunch
The vertical leg crunch is similar to a regular crunch. But it requires you to keep your legs straight, which makes the abs work harder and increases the workout's intensity.

-Lie down with hands behind your head
-Put your legs straight up with knees crossed
-Flex abs to lift head and shoulders off the floor
-Lay back down
-Keep legs extended in the air the whole time
-Exhale when you flex; inhale when you lay back down
-Do 1-3 sets with 12-16 repetitions

Exercises that burn stomach fat fast # 8: Reverse crunch
The reverse crunch was also ranked above regular crunches as the 5th best exercise for strengthening core muscles.

-Lie flat on the floor with arms at your sides
-Cross your feet and lift them off the floor so your knees create a 90-degree angle
-Contract ab muscles and lift head and shoulders off the ground
-Exhale when you contract; inhale when you lower back down
-Do 1-3 sets with 12-16 repetitions

Getting toned abs just got easy
Successfully flattening your stomach is a matter of burning body fat and building muscle. The best way to burn body fat is through cardio exercises such as running, walking, elliptical training, and bicycling. With these exercises, burning stomach fat, shedding love handles, and building a six pack is completely do-able. So send your body the memo: flat abs are in style and it's time to get yours!

Author bio:
Mike Jackson is nutritional consultant at www.esupplements.com, as well as a freelance writer in the field of health and fitness. He specializes in physique transformation and contest preparation for all levels of competition.

Read more Personal Health, Diet & Fitness stories on www.healthmeup.com

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6 simple tips to choose a mattress

A good night's sleep is very essential for a healthy life. It is not just the number of hours that plays an important role in ensuring a good sleep but also the level of comfort that depends on the mattress that you choose to relax on.

Mattresses are not the same for every person; some are designed to cushion your stiff back while others provide support according to a person's height, age or weight. We generally do not pay much attention to these factors before buying a mattress; but neglecting such concerns can affect our sleeping habit.

Puneet Verma, General Manager of a US-based mattress firm and store (with several branches in many cities in India) shares some guidelines on what to keep in mind before selecting a mattress:

Age of your existing mattress
If you've been having trouble sleeping, the problem might not be your mattress, but its age. Every mattress comes with its own expiry date. After a certain period of time, mattresses no longer retain their original comfort quality. This is the time that you should consider changing your mattress to prevent further troubles to your body.

The three S's
Softness, support and size are three important attributes of a mattress. In India, most customers tend to prioritise the cost of the mattress over other components and end up complaining later.

Test before you finalise
Once you've made up your mind on a particular mattress, try lying down on it for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This will help you check for its comfort and reliability. Do not hurry with the big purchase and let not your decision be only influenced by the salesman.

Check for all options and variations
Check whether the mattress is firm, stylish and accompanied with a pillow-top the brand promises to offer. Do not settle for anything mediocre.

Shop at a real mattress store
Avoid shopping from department stores. Salespeople at a mattress store are usually more trained and skilled enough to help you with the correct choice.

Do not forget to check the warranty
A good mattress will have a minimum of a 10 year 'full' replacement or a 'Non-prorated warranty'.

After it's all about sleeping well!

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Top 10 causes of erectile dysfunction

"Erectile dysfunction is the frequent or consistent inability to get or sustain an erection of the penis sufficient to engage in sexual intercourse", according to Medicine Health.

Failing to get an erection during sexual activity is a common problem in men above the age of 40. But of late, this problem is affecting even young men. Don't let this problem take away your sex life; learn about the common causes of erectile dysfunction and act now.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 1: Less supply of blood

This is the number one cause of erectile dysfunction. An erection occurs when the penis is gushing with blood. Some circulatory problems like high blood pressure, cholesterol and clots, can interfere with the efficient circulation of the blood.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 2: Hormonal problem

Insufficient testosterone production in the testes can also cause erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone production can be due to improper functioning of the pituitary gland or any other nervous system disorders.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 3: Excessive cycling

Excessive cycling or bike riding is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. It occurs due to the pressure created to the penis nerve by sitting on the saddle for long time.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 4: Performance anxiety

Men who keep on worrying about their performance in bed or the size of their penis are also a victim of erectile dysfunction. If you are always anxious, when you are on bed with your partner, the nervous reactions can prevent erection and set a vicious cycle.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 5: Surgeries or operations

Operation, surgeries or treatment done in and around the penis can also damage the nerves and arteries that are required to maintain an erection.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 6: Depression

Constant worries or depression is also another common cause of erectile dysfunction. Depression is a mental disorder, which can have a very bad impact on your performance in bed.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 7: Alcoholism

Excessive drinking or consumption of alcohol can produce erectile dysfunction in the long run.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 8: Smoking

Smoking cigarettes causes constriction of blood vessels. This may decrease blood flow to the penis causing erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 9: Side effects of medicines

Constant popping of pills can also cause erectile dysfunction. Some of the most common drugs are antidepressants pills and beta-blockers.

Erectile Dysfunction cause # 10: Injury

Spinal cord or pelvic injury can damage the nerves which stimulate erection.

Read more Personal Health, Diet & Fitness stories on www.healthmeup.com

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Goa: A destination of many wonders

Stretches of silver sand and white surf beaches, the azure Arabian Sea, the reveling of late nights over feni, the taverns, the green covers and coconut trees... Goa is truly, a destination of many wonders

Don't we all love that tingling feeling as we dig our toes deep into the sand? Within some restless souls lives a quiet person who would love to spend hours looking at the horizon, watching the sun sink into the calm sea. There are also those who would gladly let loose, sprint along the coast line and become one with the pulse of the city. Goa is one place that promises both and perhaps even more.

The charm of Goa is that it remains distinct from all the other Indian states. Although it is the smallest state in the country, it has a magnetic appeal which attracts wanderers and curious souls to explore the state's myriad wonders. One can reach Goa by train, flight or road. Arriving in Goa is like arriving in a different country altogether - the beautiful Portuguese churches, beaches and swaying palm trees seem more than welcoming. The Goa airport, although small, seems like a little fish market - the jostling crowd waiting for their luggage, the managers and workers and a crowd of over enthusiastic cab drivers calling out to the tourists. However, the moment one steps out in the open sun, the entire area is nothing less than a visual delight. In terms of railways, one can de board from either Madgaon or Vasco-da-gama, depending on which part of Goa you would like to visit - north or south.

South Goa is essentially the 'touristy' part of Goa. The entire city looks like a still from a period film. Not only does Goa have many spots, ruins and locations from the European colonisation time, it even displays a fair amount socio-political progressiveness. It becomes evident through casual conversations and exchange of pleasantries that the locals are a rather progressive lot. Although majority of the state follows Christianity, other religions coexist peacefully too. Some of the most popular churches in South Goa are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Church of St. Francis of Assissi, St. Cajetan Church, and Ruins of Church of St Augustine. All these churches are located in Old Goa, 10 kms east of Panaji. If you happen to be a photographer or just someone who likes to instill memories in your mind, visiting these marvelous architectures is a must. Another interesting must visit site is the Aguada Fort, 18 kms from Panaji. Not only is it a mysteriously attractive ruin dilapidated from the outside, it even houses the central jail.

Along the western coast of India are many beautiful beaches that are a permanent bookmark in the diaries of many travelers. Among the many popular beaches in South Goa is the Morjim beach. The swish of the waters and the Chapora River promise a bountiful catch of choice fish and coconuts as well as beautiful vistas for many travelers. Similarly, the Miramar beach has the most picturesque views and the dense canopy of palm trees provide enough shade and a quiet recluse to any person. The entire beach is lined with make shift shops and shacks where a number of curios, food and local brews enchant one and all.

For those who like to live it up, the buzzing spirit of the city can be witnessed in North Goa. Many cheap accommodations are available for those who like to travel light and take in more. Bikes, cars and jeeps can be hired by those who like to follow their own itinerary. Among the most happenings beaches in the city is Vagator. The rocky beach is crystal clear and many tourists without a shadow of misgivings jump into the clear blue waters for a long satisfying swim. The popular and crowded 'family beach', Baga, is lined with shacks selling all kinds of cuisines and a breathtaking view. Most markets, hotels and bedand-breakfast places are walking distance from here. The Calangute and Anjuna beach are known for their night flea markets and this fascinating and crowded place gives one the true 'feel' of the city. North Goa also has India's most well known night clubs. Club Cabana, popularly known as the club in the sky, is one of the best clubs in India. A vast expanse of property, the club is known for its great music, food and ambience. Another popular and frequently visited place to party is Curlies at Anjuna beach. A place without any cover charge, the shack has a little something for everyone. A foosball table, a little bar, and beach beds lay outside the shack, Curlies is a great place to spend your evening dancing, relaxing or playing some table games. The Titos lane at Baga is almost like a one stop solution for the nocturnal beings. The entire lane is lined with pubs, bars and small clubs to keep the crowd of the city engaged.

Clubs, beaches and shacks aside, the one most popular feature of the state is its food. Seafood, coconut milk, rice and local spices are well known and liked. Prawn Hoonam, Harem Mas and marinated Goan sausages are the highlights of this region. While the meat, pork and beef dishes are great here, the prawn and fish curries or the lobster are lip smacking delicacies.

The beautiful state of Goa is not just a beach haven. The history of the place is as colouful as the land, and the food and ambience assure each tourist a memorable and satisfying long holiday.

(By Aditi Sharma)

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Kabini: Wild, peaceful and all in between

Kabini, on the border of Karnataka and Kerala, makes a perfect wild getaway

The best thing about the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills and Western Ghats is the abundance of wildlife that one gets to spot. It needn't always be about spotting that elusive tiger. The joy for the wildlife lover is to spot many other rare species here, which include leopards, wild dogs and many different reptiles.
Kabini too is one such delight, where one can go to check out some rare sightings of animals at the Nagarhole National Park. Found alongside the river banks of the Kabini river are many species of birds and animals, making it a much sought-after destination, especially for the wildlife photographers.
The best attractions would have to be the land and water safari. While on land safari, one gets to spot bisons, elephants and peacocks along with some other rare sightings, the river safari is a delight for the ornithologists, with many winged-wonders resting alongside the river.
A little known fact is that wild spots around Kabini used to be a private hunting lodge of the Mysore Maharaja as it used to boast of a lot of wild cats. Today, Kabini has many resorts and camps as options for people to stay. The area also boasts of a dam as the other tourist destination. For the culture vultures, there are some interesting tribes that reside in these forests, who have fascinating tales to tell. Their handicrafts are also worth a buy.
A 10-hour drive from Chennai is how one would reach this place. Alternately, one could either opt to take a train or fly to Bangalore and Mysore, to reduce the time spent travelling on the road. Getting to Kabini from Coimbatore is also another option, if one wants to make a travel holiday out of it, traversing through Mudumalai and Bandipur National Parks. Kabini is also closely connected to the Wayanad district in Kerala.

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Add some feathers to your wardrobe

Fashion has always taken inspiration from nature every now and then. While animal motifs have found their way to fashion, animal-inspired accessories are quite popular too. But feathers seem to have become most popular and are present in almost everyone's wardrobe in one form or the other. Earrings and headbands are the most common ways to wear feathers. Here are a few more different ways to add them to your wardrobe.

Dresses
Like skirts, dresses can have feathers in them. Feathers can make an otherwise plain little black dress interesting and fun. Rihanna was seen wearing a short feather dress during a stage performance, and boy did she rock the look!

Hats
For a long time now, feathers have adorned the hat in many ways and this is perhaps one of the classiest ways to flaunt them. Queen Elizabeth II might even have a lesson or two on that.

Skirts
One very innovative and stylish way to wear a skirt is to have feathers on it. It not only ups one's style quotient, but also takes the look to a whole new level.

Masks
The first thing that comes to your mind when you mention feathers in fashion is the Venetian mask. Now that New Year is just around the corner, masquerade parties will be the talk of town and these masks are just the thing to wear. So get one for your party now!

T-shirts
Feathers are thought to go well with cocktail and party wear, but you can also take the casual route by wearing them on T-shirts.

Jackets
Yes, feathers can also be worn with jackets. However, one should keep in mind that since they are normally of a slightly formal kind, they can be worn for meetings or cocktail parties.

Shoes
Feathers are delicate and feminine and can adorn shoes well, especially the high-heeled variety. They can be great for party wear, but don't forget to be careful with them.

Clutches/bags
Give a classy touch to your bags and clutch with that feathered look. You can also go goth with feathers, depending on which look you would like to sport.

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