M A N A A L A Y A

                    Every Grooms Bestman

Page 01    Self Improvement            Monday 11 April 2016

SIMPLE WAYS TO TRANSFORM CRIPPLING STRESS

 INTO GREAT STRENGTH

We often hear over and over again about how damaging stress can be to our health and this state of mind is truer if you are a groom readying yourself for the great day to dawn in a couple of months or days.

What most people don’t realize is that stress is natural. Some form of stress (whether physical or emotional) is actually happening to us every second of the day from the moment we’re born until the moment we die. Breathing, walking, talking, eating; these are all forms of stress on the body.

But researchers are starting to realize how beneficial stress can actually be to our wellbeing because if we view stress as a positive thing, we can actually improve from it.

MANAALAYA’s got a few suggestions that you can use to turn stress on its head and transform it into true strength.

REFRAME THE STRESS

Do you remember the old cliché; always look at the bright side of life? This is actually very good advice that is heavily backed by science. In a study at Yale University, people who viewed old age in a positive light went on to live an average of 7.6 years longer that’s almost as much time as you lose from a lifetime of smoking.

Remember though, this doesn’t mean being blind to the negative impacts that stress could have. It’s about seeing both sides of the coin and consciously choosing the positive one.

LEARN TO LOVE THE STRESS

In order to turn stress into productive energy you need to learn to appreciate it for what it really is, an opportunity. The reality is that the sooner you accept stress, the sooner you are likely to creatively develop new strategies for dealing with whatever is stressing you out. When you learn to see stress as normal, you will improve your confidence to deal with stress as your beliefs manifest themselves as self-fulfilling prophecies.

TALK TO CLOSE FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES

Talking to other people is a positive response to stress that can help you build resilience. Doing so releases the age-fighting hormone oxytocin and allows us to better connect with others. By relating to people through stressful experiences you’re able to feel more empathy towards one another and develop more trust, both of which are vital in a meaningful life. The brain will also reward you by releasing dopamine, encouraging you to proactively reframe and handle stress in the future.

HAVE A HIGHER PURPOSE

Having a higher purpose is another factor that allows you to reframe stress and turn it into strength. But your purpose doesn’t need to be religious. You just need to commit to some cause or idea greater than yourself. Having a greater purpose allows us to give our stress meaning and improves our life expectancy.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 02          Health           Monday 11 April  2016

Foods to Boost Groom Health

MANAALAYA has this list of disease-fighting foods that can be a good start to improving your health before you start planning your HONEYMOON or the first vacation together as husband and wife.

OYSTERS

Could there be something to the legend that oysters are the food of love? Well, it's true that just a few oysters each day will deliver a full day's supply of the antioxidant mineral zinc. Zinc is involved in hundreds of body processes, from producing DNA to repairing cells.

Sexual functioning of the male reproductive system, including increased sperm counts, is enhanced with zinc. You can also get your daily recommended dose of 11 milligrams a day by eating other shellfish, lean beef, lean pork, or legumes.

BANANAS

Bananas are a great portable source of quick energy and are rich in potassium, which is needed to regulate nerves, heartbeat and, especially, blood pressure. Diets rich in potassium and magnesium (which is also found in bananas) can reduce the risk of stroke.

As a super source of vitamin B-6, bananas can also aid your immune system, help form red blood cells, ensure a well-functioning nervous system, and assist protein metabolism. So enjoy a banana each day, at breakfast on your whole grain-cereal or before your workout at the gym.

Not a banana fan? Orange juice, milk, tomato products, and beans are other good sources of dietary potassium.

FATTY FISH

No list of superfoods would be complete without the healthy fat, omega-3 fatty acids. These polyunsaturated fats are the preferred form of fats in your diet for many reasons. They can benefit the heart, circulation, and immune system and reduce the risk for prostate cancer, among other things.

Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel, herring) are the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also get omega-3s in plant-based foods, like  walnuts, soy, canola oil, and fortified products such as eggs. But there are other good reasons to eat fish.

BROCCOLI

Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, beta-carotene, potassium, and a phytochemical called sulphoraphane, which has strong anticancer properties.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 03       Grooming            Monday 11 April 2016

Habits of Impeccably-Groomed Grooms

·          

Develop a daily routine that is quick, simple and above all else about maintenance, ensuring you don't let yourself (or your carefully assembled outfit) down with unsightly hair or unnecessarily puffy eyes. How about giving a try to MANAALAYA’s routine.

BECOME A REGULAR AT YOUR BARBERS
Book your next appointment while you’re there for roughly 4 weeks time and stick to it.

KNOW WHICH HAIR PRODUCTS WORK FOR YOU

Thicker hair and messy styles can handle waxes and pomades, but if your hair's thinner, then lighter products and sprays will give you more staying power. Ask your barber if you're a bit in the dark.

FIND YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT
Aftershave isn't supposed to be loud or obvious. You don't want people to stop in their tracks and notice (if they do, you've worn too much). Rather, it should become a subtle part of your overall presence. Rather than owning 8-10 average quality bottles you pick from each morning at random, find one or two classic scents you really like and invest in them. 

DO A DYLAN" WITH YOUR TOOTHBRUSH
Two things every bride notices: your shoes, and your smile. When it comes to the latter, there is no longer any excuse for ignoring advances in technology. Electric toothbrushes are designed to do most of the work for you, plus, they’re better for your health as rotating brushes could  reduce 11% more plaque than manual toothbrushes and can also significantly reduce gum problems. And while you're at it, use a mouthwash after you brush, first thing in the morning.

SCRUB YOUR FACE
Face scrubs are just textured face washes designed to get the dead skin off your face (particularly the nose, the most exposed part of your face). Use one on a Monday morning to scrub the weekend off your face and every other day of the week go for a plain face wash that's less abrasive. You'll be looking better than you feel in no time.

LEARN TO SHAVE LIKE AN EXPERT
You might not have time in the morning for an extensive wet-shaving routine, but learning the basics of a good shave is important. Preparing your skin beforehand with a shave oil will help the razor glide over your hairs, while soaking the blades in warm water will help your pores expand, allowing the hair to come off your face with less redness and irritation? If it still feels like a chore, leave your precious face in the hands of the experts and get a professional shave once a week.

Put your best feet forward
They might not be on show at your wedding, but a good foot care routine is still important. Take care of them after a bath or shower (when the skin is softest) using a pumice stone on any dead skin, before lathering a generous amount of moisturizer on.

SORT OUT STRAY HAIRS

Big eyebrows aren’t a problem but if they're meeting in the middle, you’ve got a problem on your hands (and face). Pay attention to the spot in the middle and any errant hairs above and below your brows are also worth staying on top of. Plucking is time-consuming, though, so if needs be ask your barber to tidy your brows up when you’re next in.

NAIL YOUR HAND-CARE ROUTINE

Cutting your nails once a week – preferably after a bath or shower, to soften them and make them easier to trim – is basic. But that rough, flaky skin around the nail bed that somehow irritates you more than it looks like it should? Treat with a tiny bit of moisturizer every couple of days to smooth things over.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 04          Fashion            Monday 11 April 2016

Buying the Right Shoes

What is undoubtedly true is that most men don’t stop to think about the style, construction or purpose of the shoe they are buying – so long as it looks good and is within budget.

But when it comes to your wedding you absolutely must look your best; So, to help you make a quality purchase for the big day MANAALAYA has put together this little shoe buying guide.

Getting the colour right 

Where better way to start than with the colour of a shoe? You basically have two options here – black or brown – but what you choose most definitely depends on what you are wearing on the rest of your body.

Traditionally a black shoe is considered more formal than brown and MANAALAYA think this still largely rings true today. If you are wearing any dark coloured outfit (with the exception of navy) then black shoes are a must. This applies to all suits, morning dress and black tie.

Brown shoes should only be worn with navy blue suits – so long as it is not too light a brown - or if you are going for a more relaxed look across the whole of your outfit.

Shapes & Styles

The Oxford (or Balmoral as it is sometimes known) is characterized by having its shoelace eyelet tabs stitched underneath the ‘vamp’ – the part of the shoe upper that covers the top of the foot and toes. This type of construction is known as ‘closed lacing’ and offers the most clean – and as such most formal – appearance of any lace up shoe. Oxfords are a timeless classic that will serve you well at any occasion and will be a sensible choice for you on your wedding day.

The Monk

The next most formal shoe after the Oxford, the Monk is a half shoe / half boot hybrid that will feel like heaven to any man who suffers from considerably wider feet. The shoe is closed by one or two buckles that run across the top of the foot instead of lacing, allowing for variable widths to be achieved with ease. If you fancy something a bit different from the bog-standard lace-ups you’ve always worn, why not put on a pair of these for the big day.

The Loafer

Loafer epitomizes comfort and freedom of movement. If you can avoid the ‘Friday night out’ shoe look and find something with more elegance and class, you might be able to pull off a pair of these with your wedding suit.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 05           Finance        Monday 11 2016

Money Mistakes to Avoid on Your Honeymoon

 If you're planning a trip, one in which you and your significant other will start your new life together by visiting an exotic destination, this is likely an opportunity fraught with the potential for financial blunders.

If you aren’t careful, your honeymoon will not be memorable in the way you intended. So if you're planning a post-nuptials vacation, avoid the following money missteps.

Failing to budget. Before the big day, couples are often consumed with wedding planning and might not be thinking too deeply about the details surrounding the honeymoon, which should include contingency planning.

After all, the last thing you want is to be on your honeymoon in another country and suddenly realize your credit cards are maxed out and your checking account is overdrawn.

Even if you don't end up using your debit card to fund the remaining two days of your honeymoon, praying it isn't declined, other problems can arise.

Not going big enough. There are a lot of great arguments for taking a modest, fiscally responsible honeymoon, and no one’s suggesting you start your marriage by going deep into debt to fund a trip around the world. But if you can swing it, consider vacationing somewhere you normally wouldn't go.

Going too big. Don't think about the amount of money for this point – instead, consider what you're each getting for your money. After all, you aren't getting much bang for your buck if one of you doesn't enjoy your honeymoon. If one spouse loves to travel and the other doesn't, have a lengthy discussion about that before you both, say, embark on a trip that will take you to eight hotels in England and Scotland via numerous rental cars and trains.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 06                Travel             Monday 11 April 2016

Treehouse Hotels Perfect for Honeymoons

On the edge of Ecuador’s Yasuní National Park, La Selva Amazon Ecolodge & Spa brings eco-enthusiasts to one of the country’s greatest examples of biodiversity. Each treehouse suite lets the outdoors in with a porch hammock and an alfresco tub. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Lake Garzacocha.

Aqua Wellness Resort in Nicaragua is cradled in a quiet cove along Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast, which means aquatic adventurers have ample surfing and snorkeling opportunities right at their fin tips. The hillside teak villas each come with a wraparound deck and a plunge pool, as well as beach, ocean or jungle vistas.

The arboreal villas at Ladera Resort sit 1,300 feet above sea level among Saint Lucia’s volcanic Piton mountains. Luxury lovers will swoon over Caribbean Sea-facing plunge pools and a wall that is open to the outdoors for unobstructed sights.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 07          Honeymoon       Monday 11 April 2016

UNIQUE HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS &

TIPS TO PLAN YOUR OWN TRIP

There is a lot to consider when planning a honeymoon so MANAALAYA  has a few tips to help you get started.

HOW TO START RESEARCHING DESTINATIONS?

To make a fun game of it, have you and your fiance made a list of honeymoon destinations you’d like to go to. Compare lists and see how many you have in common and start narrowing down your list from there. You’ll also want to discuss the type of honeymoon you want. If you would rather spend your week relaxing on the beach, the Caribbean may be the way to go. If you’re an on-the-go adventure couple, think about Europe or even Asia.

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU SPEND?

Once you’ve decided on the destination, you’ll want to start thinking about what your budget is. Traditionally the groom pays for the honeymoon, but as it becomes more common for both families and the bride and groom to pay for the wedding, this allows the bride and groom to organize and plan for the honeymoon together. Regardless of who is paying, you’ll want to have an honest conversation about expectations upfront so there aren’t any disappoints down the road.

WHEN TO GO?

Traditionally the bride and groom leave directly after their wedding for the honeymoon, but it’s becoming more and more common for the newlyweds to leave the day after, a week after or even a few months after. A few things to consider are seasonality, vacation time for you and your spouse and holidays.

If you plan on taking a longer honeymoon (2 weeks+) you’ll want to take into consideration how much time you’re taking off work before the wedding and how much time your companies will allow.

Lastly to maximize your vacation days, think about planning your honeymoon around paid holidays. Just keep in mind traveling on holidays can increase your cost.

OFFBEAT HONEYMOONS

Cross-Country Road Trip

It’s becoming increasingly popular for newlyweds to travel all over the country  for their honeymoon. Check out  for houses, cottages and condos you can rent at a variety of price points you can stay at as you travel the country.

Go Glamping

Glamping isn’t for everyone, but if you are the kind of couple who love an adventure, but also appreciate a little luxury this could be the trip of a lifetime for you. Glamping.com offers high-end camping destinations around the world. Think less tent & sleeping bag rather than more cozy beds and five-star luxuries.

Under the sea

How about a honeymoon aboard a luxury submarine. We have to warn you this is quite pricey (but this will be an experience you’ll be sharing with your grandkids and great-grandkids. The sub comes with a butler and chef and you can pick your underwater destination from anywhere in the Caribbean.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com

Page 08          Sex        Monday 11 April 2016

WEDDING NIGHT SEX: DO'S AND DON'TS

After the stress of the wedding, it's quite likely that the prospect of wedding night sex – especially if it's your first time – is likely to cause you some anxiety and nervousness. Read on to find out how to cope with the pressure.

Do...

·      Feel confident
There's nothing sexier than confidence. You can also set the mood by playing some romantic music.
 

·      Talk to each other
For first time lovers, it's vital to communicate and share what you’re feeling with each other during sex. It may feel more natural, but it's important to tell her how you feel about what they're doing. If you like it, then you could say, "That feels good," or moan a little bit when you like what they're doing.

Also, observe your partner's reaction to what you’re doing, and try and do it differently if they seem to be very still and quiet. Sex is supposed to be pleasurable for the both of you.
 

·      Take things slowly
All the hype and sly jokes surrounding wedding night sex may make you keen to see what it’s all about and hurry. Instead relax and take it slow. Savour and enjoy every moment. Even if it may not be the best sex ever or meet your expectations, the wedding night is still likely to be amongst your most romantic experiences with your spouse.

Don't...

·      Expect too much
Savour and enjoy every moment. Even if it may not be the best sex ever or meet your expectations, the wedding night is still likely to be amongst your most romantic experiences with your spouse. Whatever happens, it's far more important that you enjoy yourself and feel connected to your partner.
 

·      Be stuck on the idea of the wedding night
Between the endless round of relatives you've had to meet, the rituals you've had to go through, the parties you've had to attend and maybe all the alcohol you've had to drink, it is more than understandable if you’re both too tired for lengthy foreplay. If so, it might be better to wait for morning. You'll be more rested, fresher and still in your wedding bed. It’s a shame to waste your special occasion because you have the idea you have to ‘get the job done’ before bedtime!
 

·      Let the first time impact you too much
Sex takes practice and if it's your first time ever, you're likely to feel a bit clumsy. Take things slowly and keep communicating with your partner. Don't focus just on the physical feelings instead be gentle with each other and remind yourself how lucky you are to finally be married and in each other's arms.

CONCEPTUALIZED AND DEVELOPED

BY JAI SUNTHUSH ABEYEWARDENE

Advertising Supplements Journalist (Ex Sunday Observer & Daily News)

Electronic Publications Editor (Ex Wills Design Private Limited) 

Author + Business Writer

+ 94 774546069   incrediwriter@gmail.com