15 posts tagged with "nature"

Summers in India​

Summers in India are notorious for their scorching heat and relentless sun. The mercury soars, leaving people seeking respite from the sweltering temperatures. It is almost impossible to be outside between 12 noon to 6 pm. It is 43 degree celsius in Gurgaon today.

Frequent visits in the sun lead to heat stroke (or लू लगना) and it can be very painful. Loo is a hot, dry wind that blows across the plains, intensifying the already high temperatures. This atmospheric phenomenon can be relentless, with temperatures soaring well above 40 degrees Celsius. The loo heat waves bring with them a sense of discomfort, as the hot gusts deplete the moisture in the air and drain energy from those caught outdoors. It becomes crucial to take precautionary measures, such as staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding outdoor activities during the peak hours. The loo heat waves serve as a reminder of the resilience required to endure the challenging but characteristically intense summers of North India.

Beat the heat​

To beat the heat, I have decided the following:

• Avoid being directly under sun from 11 am to 6 pm. Even a brief time under sun should be avoided.
• Drink atleast 3L of water everyday and keep a water bottle with you at all times.
• Wear cotton clothes which cover most of the body.
• Avoid sudden change of temperatures and direct AC air if coming from outside.

It is clear that the sudden change in weather are more frequent and it is important to stay safe during summers.

Running on treadmill​

I started the week with a resolve to run 10km in one session. I ended up doing 30km run in 5 sessions. I feel super happy about it considering it has been my first week of running in 2023. I can feel that I have built stamina, thanks to swimming.

Running on treadmill is different and harsh on the knees. But in the heat of Jaipur, it is the best bet unless you are running at 5 am each day.

30km running​

I ended up running the following:

Sunday 16th April 2023 - 5 km in 34:28 Monday 17th April 2023 - 5 km in 34:01 Tuesday 18th April 2023 - 5 km in 34:52 Wednesday 19th April 2023 - 10 km in 71:48 Thursday 20th April 2023 - 5 km in 29:23

I am glad that I took the weekly pass and ended up initiating a new exercise. I hope to have atleast a few more weeks like this in 2023.

Maxi boy​

Max, is our niece and is exactly ~ 6 years old male labrador. He is our first dog and has been raised primarily by mom and dad. As a pup, he would enthusiastically fetch a tennis ball, tirelessly running back and forth, tail wagging. Labradors are also known for their gentle and patient nature, making them perfect companions for children and senior citizens.

Max is intelligent and at times manipulative to get us to do what he wants. He has been a part of our family and our neighborhood. The kids like him and he loves them back. He greets me with the same enthusiasm even after months.

Growing up​

In the last 2 years, he has grown up, occupied in his routine and set in his ways. He enjoys lazying around and spending time in the garden. Today evening, I caught him enjoying the sunset, lying down and barely turning his head to give a nod acknowledging my presence. He has always been gracious and elegant, fearless and caring. It is indeed impressive to see him live life in the moment, doing things that he wants and caring for those he is around.

Once you have had a wonderful dog, a life without one is a life diminished.​

Jhalana Leopard safari​

Location: Google Maps

It was my fourth visit to Jhalana Leopard Safari and it has always been exhilarating. To add, the safari is 2 km away from our house in Jaipur. In the middle of the Aravalis and the jungle, Jhalana Leopard Safari is a must visit and you can book following the steps here.

Aravali hills​

Embarking on a leopard safari in Jaipur is a thrilling adventure that promises an up-close encounter with these elusive and majestic big cats. Set against the backdrop of Rajasthan's rugged Aravali hills, the safari takes you through pristine wilderness and dense forests where leopards roam freely. As you navigate the winding trails in an open-top jeep, guided by expert naturalists, you hold your breath in anticipation, eagerly scanning the trees and rocky outcrops for any sign of movement. The adrenaline rush peaks when you spot a leopard stealthily stalking its prey or basking in the golden rays of the setting sun. The sheer beauty and grace of these elusive felines in their natural habitat leave you in awe, as you witness their untamed world up close. With each passing moment, you realize that this leopard safari in Jaipur is a great experience that you will want to relive soon.

Safari Videos​

Earthquake on 21-Mar-2023​

Around 10:30 PM last night, my bed started shaking. I was reading Way of the Wolf in bed on my Kindle and felt them. It took a few seconds to orient and realize that they were earthquake tremors being felt across Delhi NCR. Tweets from people were witty even during the confusion after the tremors.

I live in an apartment complex, and 10 seconds into the tremors, I thought of leaving my bed and going down using the stairs and away from the buildings. It was a deer in the spotlight moment for me and after a few seconds, I decided to stay inside. Attached are the tips for Earthquake Safety for Apartments.

Today morning, I marvel at the limitlessness of nature and the random iterations that happen daily. As much as we dig ourselves in our daily routine, digital life and alternate reality. The nature has its ways of surprising us and unfortunately at times, destroying us. Every day of life, breath and mindfulness is a gift from the nature - cherish it.