BudhaGirl Diwali Stack

November 8, 2023

Pinch me! This month, I have the unique opportunity to collaborate with a brand I love on something very personal – Diwali! I continue to exist on my platforms by bringing light and love in times like this. BudhaGirl, as a company, and I have values surrounding daily rituals and gratitude that align perfectly as we celebrate the Festival of Light.

In honor of this partnership and occasion, I have created the Diwali Stack made from my favorite All Weather Bangles in three different colors to help you have mindful glamour all year round! Shop the stack and give love and light this Diwali season.

About Me:

Q: What is one of my favorite daily rituals?

A: I start my mornings with gratitude. I have the Gratitude App, which prompts me daily with something to be grateful for. I love starting my day on a happy note.

Q; What does Mindful Glamour mean to me?

A: It means doing it for yourself. Being glamorous because it makes you feel good.

Q: How do I practice self-care?

A: I take time each day to be phone-free. Lately, I have been using that time to organize small spaces in my home, one drawer or cabinet at a time. How much ‘stuff’ I have accumulated over the years is amazing. Clearing old things out makes me feel lighter and happier.

Q: What is a quote that inspires me?

A: Live and let live. Acknowledging that everyone has their own journey and reasons makes living judgment-free so easy. It’s saying, “You do you.” But nicely.

Q: What is my favorite hobby/activity?

A: Talking to my sister on the phone is truly what grounds me. She is my sounding board and biggest supporter. It’s a daily activity that brings me joy.

Q: Best Travel Spot?

A: Anywhere I can be overcome with nature’s beauty is best for me. I love places like Sedona and Vancouver, but I look forward to a trip to Iceland in 2024.

Q: What is my celebrity style icon?

A: I love everyday women the most. But if I had to choose a celebrity, it would be Jessica Alba; she seems down to earth, driven, and fun!

Q: What would it be if I had to describe my style in one word?

A: Random! One day, I am wearing leather, and the next, I have a peplum floral top on. I love trying everything!

As always, thanks for being part of my tribe.

Your chick,

Rina

Travel

Where to Stay and What to do in Jaisalmer, India

January 23, 2020

Have you ever seen a photo and thought to yourself, I would love to go there!?! A few years ago I saw a photo from a café with a lit up fort in the background and I instantly felt like I wanted to experience that view for myself.

Here is the image I saw.

This photo was taken in the small desert town of Jaislmer in the state of Rajastan, India. When we planned our trip to India this year, I included a three night stay in Rajasthan . We spent one night in Jodhpur and two nights in Jaislmer. After a one night stay at Ajit Bhawan in Jodhpur, we made the six hour drive through the Thar desert to Jaisalmer where we stayed at a beautiful hotel called Suryagarh. Usually car rides make me sleepy, but this drive was so unique that I was wide awake the WHOLE TIME. We stopped along the way for tea and selfies with cows and camels ( I couldn’t resist) until we finally reached our destination.

Where to Stay

In Jaisalmer we stayed at Suryagarh. This seven star resort in in the heart of the desert is literally the stuff dreams are made of. For my fellow Bollywood fans, think Sanjay Leela Bansali perfect. With backdrops and structures worthy of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Ram Leela this haveli had everything. Most recently Housefull 4 was filmed here.

What To Do

The weather in Rajasthan is great during the month of December with highs hitting about 70-73 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and the nights getting down to a cool 45 degrees. Known for its location in the Thar Desert, excursions into the desert are popular among tourists. I, for one, could not wait for a desert jeep safari and camel ride into the dunes. I have always felt a connection with the desert which is why Sedona, Arizona is also one of my favorite places in the US (see my post about my favorite drive of 2019 here).

We ventured into the desert, walked through the only remaining living fort in India, and visited Gadisar Lake. Jaisalmer was everything I could have expected and more from this little town. From the local experiences all the way up to the seven star hotel experience, Jaisalmer is a must see. I love seeing places a little bit off the beaten path and this is one of those places not overrun by tourists. In my opinion, two nights in Jaisalmer is just right for a Rajasthan itinerary (note: they have a great airport).

Travel is one of those things that you spend money on and it truly makes you richer. My visit to India was wonderful, but the visit to Jaislmer was truly the cherry on top.

Having visited Mumbai, Kerala, and now Rajasthan, next on my list is Leh. If you know anyone who has been there who has recommendations please let me know.

Thanks for checking out my post.

Your Chick,

Rina

Jodhpur Hotel Recommendation

Known as the little brother of the much more luxurious and expensive (3x more expensive) Umaid Bhawan (where Priyanka Chopra got married), Ajit Bhwan offers a royal and regal experience right in the heart of the city. It’s amazing to me how places like this are built with so much creativity and effort. The hotel is designed like a village where you are escorted to your mini villa. It was also the best shower I had in the two weeks I was in India. See my pictures from Ajit Bhawan below.

Beauty, Collaborations, Philanthropy

Sanaya Set: Be Distinguished by Shopping With Purpose

April 17, 2018

The Story

We were thrilled to check out a subscription box designed for women of color by women of color. Although our journey as humans has many similarities, life has a way of testing us in different ways. The women behind the Sanaya Set all have a story and a common interest that brought them together. They have used their work with API Chaya, a community for women who have been marginalized by domestic violence and sexual assault, to channel their energies to create a product that delivers awareness for a variety of good causes that speak to the experiences of women.

The Box

The Sayana set is a subscription box that is full of hand picked products that each tell a story and support a cause. What could be better than a seasonal box that comes to your door with a message? These products help women feel educated, engaged, and empowered to make the world a better place.

We felt strongly about the quality of the products (all 8 of them!) and the design of the box. A lot of thought and effort has been put into the selection of each and every product. The items each come with an information card and beautiful packaging.

If you are looking for a way to reach out to those who are working each and every day to make life better for themselves and their communities, look no further, the team at Sanaya Set has done the work for you! For $99 per box, per season, you can do good in a way that feels good and looks good.

Check out our unboxing video here:

Thanks for checking out our unboxing and be sure to check out Sanaya Set for you or as a gift!

Your Chicks,

Rina and Sonia

Fashion, Lifestyle

Evil Eye: Is It a Real Thing?

February 28, 2018

As an Indian-American, my thoughts and beliefs have been heavily influenced by my parents who immigrated from India over 30 years ago. I feel blessed to have grown up in a dual culture household — I often ponder the discussions we’ve had that were deeply rooted in my parents upbringing. When reflecting on my childhood, much of the “norm” in my household was governed by my parent religious and cultural background.

The Evil Eye

One of the most fascinating topics was the concept of the “Evil Eye”, also known as “Nazar”, in India. The idea is that unbeknownst to a person there is negative energy in the universe wishing malice upon you or your family. This negative energy can manifest in human emotions by way of envy. Both my children were gifted black bracelets to wear in order to ward off any bad thoughts or energy that might come their way. I was happy to comply, but I couldn’t help to wonder, “Is it possible that there really is an energy to fight off those who don’t mean well?” I didn’t want to take the chance to find out so I was happy to have them wear it. Similarly, in this world of social media, it’s often said not to show too much of your life or family for fear that others might look on and wish negativity upon you. As a spiritual chick, I have found over the years that I truly am a believer in the evil eye warding off evil spirits. Whether the evil eye actually wards off mysterious negative energy or not, the comfort and confidence I derive from the superstition is worth it.

I have received so many compliments on this blue and white sapphire necklace that I wear and it is only $32 !

Over the years, I have learned that this concept exists beyond Indian folklore. Latinos speak of “Malos Ojos” , Jewish and Islamic stories speak of the “Hamsa” or hand of God, and here in the US, we refer to the “Evil Eye” and have fashioned it into our culture as well through fashion. You can often find evil eyepieces to compliment a cute outfit. Accessories that are an ode to the energy theory are a way to feel protected from negativity. Why not, right?!? Even if only symbolically the Evil Eye concept is a reminder to remain positive and emanate that positivity to others.

Shop this an other evil eye swag that I have my eye on here!

Anyone heard of the Evil Eye? Would love to hear your thoughts, leave a comment below.

Your Chick,
Sonia

Content Creators | Living Our Best Life | With Balance

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