Let'ssharethursdayhappinessandgetinspiredtoday, and good day from my last days here in Aussie Land. I want to share the amazing news with you and wish you all that your day is exited and inspirational as mine.I make it short today. I'm ueber exited since around 8.30am this morning. All what I can say is I have received one of the most amazing surprises in my email this morning. Live changes. And mine? Right now. Stuck? Move on! Don't waist time. So happy. I let you know when I know more about it. I only can say: America here I come!
Good day everyone, from today onwards I show you 3 of my daily inspirations. A lot of times we are to busy to notice what beautiful things are surrounding us and it can help us in so many different direction to appreciate and approach our goal in a more interesting way with a different affect. It can come through videos, websites, just going for a walk, images, just thoughts etc. So lets start than! Let's start with Muse. New beat. New VIDEO.
Fast Company has always great articles on their WEBSITE and this one (Design Thinking)is one of them:
It was a lovely week to get some basic knowledge of Morocco's culture and tradition. For the next four weeks I will upload each day an inspirational image and design the Logo and Login Page of my future website. I will use Wordpress to start with, as I'm more of a Designer / Marketing Specialist than a Programmer. Though I know basic HTML and CSS. But let's see what we can learn today and while we do this we can get inspired. Here we go! A video about how to transform Agar Tree Kernels into "Moroccon Oil".
Argan Oil is better known as Moroccan Oil in the cosmetic market. The plant oil is produced from the kernels of the argan tree.
Argan Tree
The tree is extremely well adapted to drought and other environmentally harsh conditions of southwestern Morocco. The genus Argania once covered North Africa and is now endangered and under protection of UNESCO.Argan trees were first reported by the explorerLeo Africanus in 1510.
Press extraction
The oil will keep 12-18 months and extraction is now increasingly important for a much faster oil produced sale. Through using mechanical presses, mixing of the dough and water is unnecessary and the dough can be directly pressed.
The fruits of the argan tree are nut-sizes and may be round, oval or conical in shape. The fruits are covered by a thick peel which covers the fleshy pulp. Contained within the nut are one to three argan oil-rich kernels.
In order to extract the kernels, the argan fruits are first dried in the open air and then the fleshy pulp of the fruit is removed. The flesh is usually used as feed for animals.
The next stage involves cracking the argan nut to obtain the argan kernels. It is still carried out by hand, making it a time-consuming and labour-intensive process.
Kernels used to make argan oil for food use, culinary argan oil, are then gently roasted. After the argan kernels have cooled down, they are ground and pressed. The brown-colored mash expels pure, unfiltered argan oil. After this, unfiltered argan oil is decanted into vessels.
Cosmetic argan oil is produced almost identically, although the argan kernels are not roasted to avoid an excessively nutty scent.
After pressing, the argan oil is decanted and left to rest for approximately two weeks. This allows solids suspended in the argan oil to settle to the bottom, creating a natural sediment. The clearer argan oil may then be further filtered depending on the clarity and degree of purity required. Culinary uses Argan food oil is used for dipping bread, on couscous, salads and similar uses. Amlou, a thick brown paste with a consistency similar to peanut butter, is produced by grinding roasted almond and argan oil using stones, and is used locally as a bread dip.
Various claims about the beneficial effects on health due to the consumption of argan oil have been made. Researchers have concluded that daily consumption of argan oil is 'highly likely' to be one factor helping the prevention of various cancers, cardiovascular diseases and obesity.
Unroasted argan oil is traditionally used as a treatment for skin diseases and as a cosmetic oil for skin and hair:
"In cosmetics, argan oil is advocated as moisturizing oil, against acne and flaking of the skin as well as for [nourishing] the hair. This oil has also medicinal uses against rheumatism and the healing of burns. Impacts The labour-intensive nature of argan oil production, now frequently carried out by women’s co-operatives, has provided a steady income for many women and their families, improved the social status of some women and has encouraged producers of other agricultural products to examine the co-operative model. Environmental impacts The Argan tree provides food, shelter and protection from desertification. The tree has deep roots which help prevent desert encroachment.
The argan tree also helps landscape stability, helping to prevent soil erosion, providing shade for pasture grasses and helping to replenish aquifers.
Social impacts
The production of argan oil has always had a socio-economic function. At present, argan oil production supports approximately 2.2 million people in the main argan oil producing region (the Arganeraie).
Employment in the co-operatives provides women with an income, which many have used to fund education for themselves or their children. It has also provided them with a degree of autonomy in a traditionally male-dominated society and has helped many become more aware of their rights.
The success of the argan co-operatives has also encouraged other producers of agricultural products to adopt the co-operative model.
Thanks for tuning in again and wherever you are have an amazing day.
Saturday greetings, yesterday we started with a joke, today we start with a BBC Video. Have lovely 60 minutes to get the feel of Morocco. Lovely people, amazing buildings and such a diverse Landscape.
Poem by Wafae Akioud, Morocco
JOURNEY TO MY HEART They say … There is a mysterious place With no roads, no way That just floats into space
They tell … About the beauty of this hell A fire in an ice shell A moon under a cloud’s veil
Some even wondered if it is real For they still believe what they can feel As it left the bravest knights in steel With wounds that won’t seem to heal
And just when hope was wept And this place, from people’s memories swept You showed up in your shining armour That is your dazzling smile and glamour
You said with no word All what was needed to be heard Brave, kind and gentle Pure and loving, you’re an Angel
Like a free butterfly, I was caught in your lure As for all my illnesses you seem to be the cure For if I ever get parallelized By the gleam of your starry eyes You’re kiss is the only key That can magically set me free
And as you asked me on one knee “ In this place , please let me be Give me your hand and forever be mine Let me break the ice, blow off the clouds with the warmth of my sunshine “
I said:” To this place I only have one ticket It was lost, but you found it So now we will never be apart As you take the everlasting journey to my heart “
Morocco's Timeline
10,000- 5,000 BC
Capsian and Mouilian Man spread across the Maghreb. Rock carvings in Oukaimeden.
1100 BC
Phoenician settlements in Morocco during the Bronze Age. First trading port is in Lixus near Larache.
500 BC
Carthaginians take over and expand the Moroccan Phoenician settlements. Remains of this period can be seen in Lixus and in the Rabat Archaeological Museum.
146 BC
Carthage falls to Rome in the Third Punic War. Roman influence spreads into the Berber kingdoms of Mauretania-Numidia.
27 BC
Morocco comes under direct Roman rule during the reign of Emperor Caligula. Volubilis developed as a provincial capital; extensive ruins can still be seen there. Roman mosaics can be seen in the Tetouan and Rabat museums.
622
Islam founded by Muhammad in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and quickly spreads throughout the Middle East.
c.705
Islam comes to Morocco when Arab rule is established in the north under Moussa Ibn Nasr.
711
Moussa Ibn Nasr leads the Berber invasion of Spain.
788
Moulay Idriss founds the first Moroccan Arab dynasty, along with the cities of Moulay Idriss and Fes.
807-36
Rule of Moulay Idriss II. Fes further developed; refugees from Kairouan and Andalusia settle there; Kairaouine Mosque built.
1062
Youssef bin Tachfine founds the first great Berber dynasty and establishes his capital in Marrakesh. The fine Almoravid Koubba in Marrakesh is the only monument surviving from this period.
1090
Almoravids invade Spain.
1120s
Ibn Toumert sets up a ribat in Tin Mal in the High Atlas. The ruined mosque of Tin Mal can be visited (non-Muslims may enter).
1145-47
Abd el Moumen captures Fes, then Marrakesh. Extensive building of walls, gates and minarets in this period, notably the minaret ofKoutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh.
1195
Yacoub el Mansour (1184-99) extends Almohad rule to Spain and east to Tripoli. La Giralda in Seville constructed and new capital established at Rabat, where the Hassan Tower and Oudaia Gate are lasting monuments.
1212
Almohads defeated in Spain at Las Navas de Tolosa.
Abou el Hassan (1331-51) and Abou Inan (1351-58) are two of the most successful Merenid rulers; they extend rule briefly to Tunisia.
1415
Portuguese begin attacking Moroccan coast, taking Ceuta and then other cities. Portuguese-era remains in Morocco include a cistern in El Jadida and walls and remains in Azzemour, Asilah and Safi.
1465
Merenid viziers known as the Wattasids usurp power. Chefchaouen is built and Tetouan refounded by refugees.
1465
Fall of Granada, the last Muslim kingdom in Spain. Jewish and Muslim refugees settle in Morocco.
15-16C
The Marabouts establish zaouias, controlling parts of the country.
1554
Mohammed esh Sheikh (d.1557) founds the Saadian dynasty in Marrakesh.
1579
Accession of Ahmed el Mansour (1578-1603) after the Battle of Three Kings. Mansour goes on to conquer Timbuktu and the gold and slave routes to the south. In this period, the Saadian Tombs, Ben Youssef Medersa and El Badi Palace are built in Marrakesh and pavilion extensions are added to Kairaouine Mosque in Fes.
1627
The pirate Republic of Bou Regreg set up by Andalusian refugees. Rabat Medina built.
1669-present
Alaouite Dynasty
1672-1727
Rule of Moulay Ismail, who imposes the Alaouite Dynasty in Morocco. New imperial capital established in Meknes, with monuments including Ismail's mausoleum. Kasbahs and forts built; palaces constructed in Tangier and Rabat. Tomb of Moulay Idriss rebuilt.
18-19C
Rule of Sidi Mohammed (1757-90) and Moulay Suleiman (1792-1822). Grand mosques rebuilt, especially in Marrakesh. Many pavilions and gardens in Marrakesh date from early 18C. Extensive palace building, such as El Badi in Marrakesh and Palais Jamai in Fes.
1860
Dispute over Spain's Ceuta enclave. Spain declares war, wins a further enclave and an enlarged Ceuta.
1894
Death of Moulay Hassan, the last effective sultan of "Old Morocco."
1912
Treaty of Fes establishes the French and Spanish Protectorates (1912-56). European Villes Nouvelles (new towns) are built outside the old medinas. Mauresque architecture developed for administrative buildings.
1912
T'hami el Glaoui becomes pasha of Marrakesh and is used by the French to conquer southern tribes. Glaoui palaces built in Telouet and Marrakesh; kasbahs built throughout southern Morocco.
1921
Tribal rebellion in Rif mountains under Abd El Krim is suppressed by French and Spanish troops.
Over 40 killed when suicide bombers attack several sites in Casablanca, including a Spanish restaurant and Jewish community center. Moroccans react with public marches against anti-Semitism and hatred.
Feb. 2004
Powerful earthquake hits northern Morocco, killing more than 500.
July 2004
Free trade agreement with the US comes into effect.
April 2007
Three suicide bombers blow themselves up in Casablanca, a few weeks after a suicide blast in an internet cafe.
The rich culture and diversity of Morocco is reflected in every inch of the vibrant nation that trade frantically and enthusiastically in the bustling streets as songs of worship ring out overhead. These people have a long and fascinating heritage and though they've slowly started to embrace the modernizing of their world; there is a sort of captivated timelessness which still hangs over them all.
Moroccan Folklore is extremely diverse and equally fascinating. In fact to say that it is diverse is a massive understatement. The folklore varies in different areas , tribes , even from one language to another, the folklore traditions are as plentiful as the people themselves.
Souks (Market) are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one. You can often get good bargains here, but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price so you will seldom find yourself able to get better than that which is offered. If you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. It is a good idea to take a gift of some sort with. If you are in a home in the city, you might take some pastries or some sugar with you. If you are in the county, it would be better to buy a live chicken for the household which is likely to not be quite so well off.
Morocco festivals and events play major role in the colorful culture of Morocco.
Green Tea with mint is a moroccan tradition of hospitality made by steeping green tea with mint leaves, is very popular, and many Moroccans drink it several times throughout the day and evening. Moroccans are famous for their hospitality, and it is Moroccan etiquette to offer tea to any visitors that might stop by.
Festivals In the month of February, Moroccans celebrate Aid Al Adha or Aid el-Khebir. This Morocco festival is celebrated in the honor of Abraham's sacrifice. A commemoration feast is also held during this festival. Fatih Mouharam is an immensely popular Moroccan festival and event. It is the Islamic New Year and is usually celebrated in the month of March. In order to honor the coronation of King Mohammad VI, a national holiday is observed. This popular Morocco festival and event is known as Aid el Arch. Another immensely popular Morocco festival is Fez. It is the annual music festival, where musicians from all over the world take active participation. If you want to enjoy this festival then you must book in advance.
Art
People express themselves in carpets,clothing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, painting, carving, and calligraphy.
Music
Morocco's music reflects the richness of its diversity and echoes its present and past history. Andalusian music, is a blend of Arab and Spanish music that is called El-Ala and is considered to be Morocco's classical music. It makes use of many musical instruments such as the violin, lute and many others. Performers are mostly men who are dressed in traditional clothing. Moroccans usually listen to Andalusian music during religious ceremonies.
The second type of music is Berber music. Each one of the three different Berber regions in Morocco possesses their own language and Berber rhythms. The main instruments of Berber music are the round drum - or Bendir - and the banjo. One of the more notable changes is the presence of ore and more women performing it.
Another type of Moroccan music is Rai. With its origins in Algeria and mostly played in the eastern region, especially the city of Oujda.
Chaabi is probably considered pop music since it is indeed the most popular music. It can be heard at weddings and other festive occasions. Don't miss the Gnawa festival in the city of Essaouira in June. The main instruments are the double-headed drum - or tbal - and metal cstanets or qerqbat. It also can be heard mixed with different musical styles such as Jazz.
Culture
You can often get good bargains at Souks (Markets), but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price.
If you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. You can follow our host's example in this regards. Also it is a good idea to take a gift of some sort the likes of pastries, sugar, or live chicken.
A home invitation is perhaps the most authentic way to sample Moroccan dishes. Most Moroccan food is eaten with the hands. Always eat with the right hand as the left is supposed to used for the toilet.
Visits to mosques are mostly only allowed to Muslims. Though you can visit the grand mosque in Casablanca (Hassan II Mosque).
Taking photographs of local people
Ask their permission otherwise it can cause offense. It may result in them demanding money from you - even if you only intended to take a scenic shot of something. If you became friendly with someone it is usually very welcome.
Family live
Traditionally the men take to the streets and the women are in control of their homes. This means that you will not often find woman in cafes or restaurants.
General
Moroccan culture can be an exiting and worldly experience. The people are friendly and the place is just colorful in any direction. Hospitality is really a part of their culture so you can strike up friendships virtually anywhere if you have the right attitude.
Folklore
Awash
The dance originates from the HIgh Atlas and Ouarzazate areas. Woman in colorful dresses stand motionless around a group of men sitting around a fire. The men each have "bendir's". It is circular piece of wood with a hide stretched over it. The sombre silence is broken by a piercing cry and the men begin to beat their drums and the woman sway slowly from side to side. Their speed of their swaying and the playing of the drums increase until the grand finale.
Ouais
This ballet-like dance is set to ancient Middle Eastern music. The "Orchestra" coprises a single-stringed fiddle and a number of 3 stringed, turtle-shell mandolins. These are played whilst another person keeps beat with a piece of iron hit on the ground. The dancers wear colorful kaftans, a silk belt and a colorful spangled cord wrapped around their head. It's a simple dance with only a few steps, but as the couples alternate their steps in unison, it creates a wonderfully intricate spectacle
Ait Atta
Similar to the Awash dance in certain ways, this dance marks the end of the working season. As the cold creeps over the mountains the workers get ready to pput their tools don and prepare for a season of relaxation. A row of women face a row of men and dance with gestures from which it is clear to see their enthusiasm and happiness to be finished with their work for the season.
The Ait Bodar
Ancient warriors placed much importance on the warriors fighting as one: creating an unbreakable line of defense to ensure their victory. This dance encompasses this belief. A row of men wearing white gandoras link into each others' arms and chant their song whilst perpetually moving forwards and backwards as one unit.
Ha Ha
A single, 7-holed flute is the only instrument used in this dance. Combined with the stamping of feet and the clapping of hands. The dancing men are incredibly disciplined and precise.
Fantasia
Performed entirely on horseback, a procession on woman on horseback begins the proceedings. Behind them men, wearing their individual tribe's emblem and riding in order of rank in the tribe, ride in an organized procession. As soon as this procession is complete the real Fantasia begins: The Aid el Broud (Festival of Gunpowder).
Wedding Customs
The wedding process can take up to seven days and there are many pre-wedding ceremonies.
It starts with the paying of a dowry that is spent of household items and furniture for the bride.
It starts with the paying of a dowry that is spent of household items and furniture. If the grooms parents are very wealthy, They will pay for these items. The bride also receives golden jewelry and is sent presents of cloths, and perfume from her groom every feast day. The courtship period can last from six months to two years.
Facts
Population Density: 72 People per square kilometer
In likeness to Islamic tradition the deceased is buried within 24 hours of their death. Moroccan funerals are done in contrast with Islamic customs. The body is prepared at home by family and if needed someone of the community who regrettably has had that experience.
In all Islamic faiths, it is said Allah can bring them back to life if they are in the direction of Mecca for Judgement Day. On that day in question is when Allah ultimately decides the fate of the soul – heaven or hell.
Once the funeral has taken place, a couple of days later family will gather for a formal get-together over food and some of the Koran is read aloud. In Moroccan culture this meal is of utmost importance because it will give good vibes of charity for the spirit to take.
Traditionally women wear white while grieving and in addition to this it is the law that they abstain from sex for the forty days after their spouse died. In ties with other Islamic groups in Africa and the Middle East the mourning period is forty days.
