Red hands? Not blood pal!

         Hey! Have you guys ever got your hands coloured in red with Henna?

          I still have the vivid memories of eagerly anticipating the time when my mom and grandma pick leaves, meticulously wash them, and skillfully transform them into a soothing paste. It was something I cherished, waiting in anticipation to adorn my small hands (which is still small lol), especially during the summer, which I would flex them with my neighborhood friends. Though time has passed but the warmth of those memories remains ever-present.

         Time runs faster that I could barely hold onto the memories. The number of times me putting it on have been greatly reduced as I grew up. I don't know whether it is because of the school imposing fine, or my friends found it old fashioned, or  no one free to help me put them.

        Only in the last two years have I started applying them myself, using a basic traditional style: carefully spreading one large round patch at the center of my palm, surrounded by delicate, tiny dots, while ensuring that one-third of my fingers are coated in the paste.

  Now I have started painting my hands in red with drawings...

Don't mind my chubby hand...

         I realised that it is not just about the physical act of applying the paste and adorning my hands; it's a symbolic gesture of honoring my roots and preserving the cultural practices that have also shaped my upbringing.

         Through this intimate interaction with nature's bounty, I've gained a newfound appreciation for the simplicity and effectiveness of traditional practices, which often hold the key to nurturing both body and soul in a harmonious way.

         Additionally, henna is known for its antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections and promote skin health. It is also said that it has cooling and soothing effects on the skin, making it a popular choice for alleviating heat-related discomforts and skin conditions, which very much essential during the summer months. 

       For those who haven't experienced it yet this summer, imagine strolling around with hands adorned in vibrant red hues, enjoying the refreshing relief it brings amidst the sweltering heat...