Category:

Lifestyle

5 hacks that can keep your tummy healthy: Weight management to eating habits

by jummy84 November 16, 2025

written by jummy84

A healthy stomach is crucial for a healthy body. The National Health Service (NHS) has laid out a set of everyday habits that make a surprising difference to how your stomach behaves. Just small adjustments can help your gut settle down, avoid flare-ups, and generally function the way it should. Most of these are not secrets, but the NHS notes that people rarely follow through with these measures. Here are 5 lifestyle tips for a happy, healthy gut

Avoiding heavy dinners before bed helps your gut settle.(Representative image/Unsplash)

Stress hits the stomach harder than people think

The NHS points out that stress does not stay in your head. It lands straight in your stomach. You can feel that twisty, uneasy sensation when something is weighing on you. That is your digestive balance shifting. For some people, stress slows everything down and causes bloating, constipation and a heavy, uncomfortable gut. For others, it speeds digestion up so fast that it sends them running to the bathroom.

Stress can also flare underlying conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and stomach ulcers. The NHS says reducing stress – even in small, realistic ways – helps digestion stabilise again.

Also read: Does gut bacteria contribute to autism symptoms? Here’s what major scientific review reveals

Daily choices shape how your stomach reacts

The habit weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid where it belongs. Once that barrier softens, acid shoots back up and triggers reflux. Heartburn becomes the norm. Smoking also heightens the risk of stomach cancer and aggravates other inflammatory gut issues.

Improving eating habits

Eating habits matter just as much. According to the NHS, rushing through meals is one of the biggest mistakes. Slowing down, chewing properly and keeping portions sensible give your digestive system a fighting chance. Eating regular meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy dinners right before bed helps your gut settle.

Also read: Study reveals how analysing natural speech can help in research cognitive decline. Here’s what we know

Weight management is the key

Weight also plays a role. Excess abdominal fat pushes against the stomach, and the NHS says that pressure makes heartburn worse. Losing even a small amount can calm symptoms.

Alcohol becomes a problem when you go too far

Moderate drinking is fine, the NHS says, but binge drinking is not. Those heavy sessions spike acid production, stir up irritation and set off heartburn or other digestive discomforts. The definition is simple: too much alcohol in one go.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

November 16, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Weekly Tarot Card Readings: Tarot prediction for November 16-22, 2025

by jummy84 November 16, 2025

written by jummy84

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 20)

Love: The Hermit

Read the weekly tarot prediction based on zodiac signs between November 16-22, 2025. (Pixabay)

Mood: Three of Wands

Career: The Magician

Property matters may take centre stage as a long-pending decision is likely to move forward, offering you a chance to plan future investments wisely. At work, your leadership abilities could draw attention, leading to growth-oriented tasks. Finances may stabilize with careful expense checks, while cheerful conversations might uplift the family atmosphere. A comforting phase in romance may deepen mutual affection. Short travel plans could feel refreshing and help you reset mentally. Adding a nutrient boost and a morning walk to your routine will support vitality. Academically, active learning may strengthen your grip on key concepts. Stay focused on long-term gains rather than quick results.

Lucky Number : 18

Lucky Colour : White

TAURUS (Apr 21-May 20)

Love: The Star

Mood: The Tower

Career: Hierophant

Romance is likely to take a soothing turn, helping you nurture deeper trust and a relaxed bond. Creative ideas at work may bring a steady climb, while a disciplined approach to savings could help you stay financially secure. A weekend trip or exploration is on the cards and might inspire fresh energy. Constructive results are probable in property-related matters, and mindful study sessions could bring clarity in academics. Prioritising hydration and sticking to your gym routine will boost stamina and mood. Family conversations may feel more harmonious if kept polite and patient. This is a week to enjoy gentle progress and embrace emotional balance.

Lucky Number : 2

Lucky Colour : Purple

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21)

Love: Strength

Mood: The Magician

Career: The Star

Family support may become your biggest strength, helping you stay emotionally anchored through the week. At work, gradual progress could unfold as you rotate between varied tasks, while romance might sparkle with renewed excitement. Financial planning may need attention, so focus on stabilising your balance. Daily travel could feel routine yet productive, and partial gains in property may encourage future plans. Herbal detox and restful nights will support your health, while revived focus may help you overcome academic distractions. Keep adaptability high and flexibility is likely to turn small steps into bigger milestones.

Lucky Number : 1

Lucky Colour : Light Red

CANCER (Jun22-Jul 22)

Love: Nine of Cups

Mood: Tower

Career: The Sun

Students may find themselves grasping complex ideas with greater ease, making this a promising week for academic success. Financially, smart investments could boost your portfolio, while professional life is expected to progress at a steady pace. A warm family celebration or joyful gathering may bring emotional comfort, and romance is likely to stay harmonious and soothing. Travel plans might unfold smoothly, and property dealings may lead to secure outcomes. Pilates sessions and a protein-rich diet will enhance vitality and focus. Embrace curiosity as learning with enthusiasm may unlock fresh opportunities ahead.

Lucky Number : 6

Lucky Colour : Brown

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 23)

Love: Judgement

Mood: The Emperor

Career: Three of Coins

Financial balance may improve with better budgeting and conscious spending, giving you a sense of stability. Collaborative efforts at work might feel slow initially, but could lead to meaningful outcomes. Romance may seem distant, but open dialogue could bridge emotional gaps. Quiet family moments will offer peace, while steady academic revision will enhance recall. Short errands might refresh your daily routine. Prioritising regular meals and consistent rest will help tackle fatigue effectively. Property matters may show little movement for now, but patience will pay off. Small steps this week can lay the foundation for more significant rewards ahead.

Lucky Number : 8

Lucky Colour : Blue

VIRGO (Aug 24-Sept 23)

Love: The World

Mood: The Fool

Career: Eight of Coins

Health is likely to remain strong as breathing exercises and a balanced routine work in your favour. Steady income could support financial planning, while business pitches or project deliveries may lead to meaningful professional breakthroughs. Family cooperation may feel stable, and loyalty could strengthen romantic bonds. A scenic route or short trip might bring much-needed inspiration. Property outcomes appear promising, while focused preparation could yield sharp academic results. Stay consistent and patient as your discipline is shaping future successes in ways you may not yet see.

Lucky Number : 3

Lucky Colour : Beige

LIBRA (Sept 24-Oct 23)

Love: Two of Wands

Mood: Eight of Cups

Career: Knight of Swords

Professional meetings may work in your favour, pushing projects closer to success. Family time could feel joyful and comforting, possibly through a picnic or small gathering. Financially, planned savings may help you stay on track. Romantic life might remain steady, offering gentle reassurance. Long-distance travel may be best avoided for now as delays are possible. Nutritious meals and small lifestyle changes will keep your energy levels up. A property deal could bring favourable news, and consistent revision is likely to enhance your academic performance. Use this week to organise and prepare, as a structured approach may open bigger doors.

Lucky Number : 5

Lucky Colour : Green

SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 22)

Love: Knight of Coins

Mood: The Hanged man

Career: The Sun

Travel plans might bring a refreshing change of pace, adding joy and spontaneity to your week. Financial opportunities could look bright with new investments and portfolio gains. Professional assignments may proceed smoothly, while respectful communication will be key to maintaining family harmony. Romance may deepen with mutual trust and confidence. Property matters might move slower than expected, so patience will be your best ally. Correcting posture and prioritising deep rest will support physical well-being. Crisp academic understanding is likely, helping you excel in studies. Stay optimistic as even delays could lead to more rewarding results later.

Lucky Number : 22

Lucky Colour : Saffron

Love: Two of Coins

Mood: The Fool

Career: Temperance

Family dynamics may feel peaceful and well-balanced, offering you emotional security. Expansion opportunities in business or client growth are likely to give your professional life a boost. Finances may remain steady, while property matters could progress positively. Romance is set to flourish with ease and natural rapport, and travel may unfold smoothly though without major excitement. Improved digestion and mental calmness will support your overall health. A strategic approach towards academics might help you achieve your goals more effectively. Embrace the stability around you as it is building the perfect base for your next leap.

Lucky Number : 18

Lucky Colour : Pink

Love: Two of Coins

Mood: Six of Wands

Career: Five of Swords

Romance may see a renewed spark, adding warmth and excitement to your week. Family gatherings and cheerful interactions could create lasting memories. A rise in property valuation might strengthen your financial confidence, though overspending pressures must be addressed with mindful budgeting. At work, daily routines may feel monotonous, but steady consistency will bring results. Academic preparation could deliver strong outcomes, while cardio workouts and a calm mindset will boost vitality. A pleasant travel change might offer new inspiration. Stay grounded as patient efforts will help you turn potential into progress.

Lucky Number : 3

Lucky Colour : Yellow

Love: Page of Swords

Mood: Chariot

Career: The Empress

Academics may be a strong area this week, with clear thinking and precise execution leading to excellent results. Balanced reserves may help you plan finances better, while property matters could show promising signs. Business pitches and creative pursuits may add momentum to your professional path. Travel could bring refreshing changes, and health may remain robust with stretching and immunity-boosting habits. Romantic distance may be bridged through empathetic conversations, while patient family discussions will build understanding. Steady, thoughtful actions now could pave the way for greater success ahead.

Lucky Number : 22

Lucky Colour : Orange

PISCES (Feb 20-Mar 20)

Love: The Fool

Mood: Two of Cups

Career: King of Wands

Finances may remain steady, giving you confidence to plan ahead with clarity. Constructive ideas at work could bring meaningful progress, while academics may flourish through logical thinking and consistent effort. Romance is likely to feel closer and friendlier, deepening mutual understanding. Comfortable travel will ease your schedule, and family cooperation will support harmony at home. Sound sleep and regular hydration may improve your overall health. Property matters might take time to unfold, so patience and careful review are advised. Focus on long-term stability; slow progress now could translate into strong results later.

Lucky Number : 11

Lucky Colour : Silver

By: Manisha Koushik

(Astrologer, Tarot Card Reader, Numerologist, Vastu & Fengshui Consultant)

Email: [email protected]

Url: http://www.askmanisha.com

Contact: +919650015920

November 16, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Everyone’s on Pointe: Ballet classes are taking over fitness routines

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

Once considered a niche pursuit for the dedicated few, ballet is now attracting a whole new wave of enthusiasts. Blending fitness, mindfulness, and creativity, ballet classes have become the latest way to stay active while expressing grace and poise.

Ballet

‘There is a growing awareness and appreciation for this art form in India today’

Khushcheher Dallas, director of The School of Classical Ballet and Western Dance says, “Over the years, I’ve definitely seen a steady rise in the number of children enrolling in ballet. There is a growing awareness and appreciation for this art form in India today. A few key factors have contributed to this, these include: the availability of more qualified

ballet teachers across the country, providing greater access to quality training. Socialmedia has also played a huge role in showcasing ballet’s beauty and discipline, inspiring many young dancers. And of course, films like Yeh Ballet have brought the art form into the mainstream, sparking curiosity and admiration among parents and children alike. We usually recommend that children begin their ballet training around the age of four and a half. Like any form of classical training, ballet is a long-term journey that requires consistency and patience.”

‘Ballet education nurtures confident, disciplined, and creative individuals’

Pia Sutaria, founder of Institute of Classical and Modern Dance India says, “Something we place a lot of emphasis on — we’ve seen firsthand how parents are becoming more open to allowing their children to commit to structured, syllabus-based training. There’s a deeper understanding now that ballet education nurtures not just dancers, but confident, disciplined, and creative individuals. It’s been very encouraging to witness that shift.The essentials are a good teacher, correct foundational training, and the right environment. A well-fitted uniform, proper shoes, and a safe floor are important from a physical standpoint, but equally important is a nurturing space that balances discipline with encouragement.“

‘It’s like you’re passing on a little piece of your heart to students’

Sasha Shetty ballet dancer teacher and choreographer says, “What really separates a good dancer from a great one is heart. A good dancer can have perfect technique, clean lines, and flawless timing but a great dancer brings soul into every step. It’s the emotion, passion, and truth that comes through their movement that makes people stop and feel something. You can’t fake that it comes from within, from living, feeling, and truly loving what you do. A great dancer connects with the music, the audience, and most importantly, with themselves. Like the quote says, ‘Dance is the hidden language of the soul.’ And I truly believe that. When a dancer moves from that honest, vulnerable place, that’s when the magic happens that’s when dance becomes more than movement, it becomes art.”

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Doctor warns that people with underlying heart conditions should avoid energy drinks, explains why: ‘Raise heart rate…’

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

When exhaustion hits and deadlines pile up, it’s tempting to crack open yet another energy drink for that instant burst of alertness. But while the boost may feel harmless, it can come at a serious cost – especially if you have an underlying heart condition. The combination of high caffeine levels and added stimulants can strain the heart far more than most people realise, making caution essential for anyone relying on these drinks to power through long hours.

Dr Sood emphasises that energy drinks strain the heart more than you realise.(Unsplash)

Also Read | Physician explains the real reason you have to depend on energy drinks to get through the day: ‘They work by blocking…’

Dr Kunal Sood, an anesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician has revealed why it is best for people with heart conditions to avoid energy drinks. In an Instagram video posted on November 15, the doctor explains how these stimulant-packed beverages impact the heart and, in the worst cases, can even trigger cardiac arrest.

How do energy drinks affect the heart?

Many people reach for energy drinks to get a quick boost from their high caffeine content, but that sudden rush can pose serious risks to the heart in certain individuals. Dr Sood explains, “Drinks like Celsius, Red Bull, and Monster contain high doses of caffeine along with other stimulants such as taurine and guarana. Together, these compounds raise heart rate and blood pressure for hours after you drink them. And in some people, they can disrupt normal heart rhythm.”

He adds that for someone with an underlying or genetic heart condition, this sudden surge in stimulation can trigger dangerous arrhythmias or, in rare cases, even cardiac arrest. According to the doctor, “Some studies have also linked heavy frequent energy drink use to hypertension, clotting changes and vascular stress, though long-term evidence for direct heart disease risk is still limited.”

Energy drinks can trigger cardiac arrests in worst case scenarios, according to Dr Sood.(Image generated via ChatGPT)

Recommended caffeine limit

Dr Sood highlights, “Experts generally recommend keeping caffeine intake under 400 milligrams per day. That’s about four small cups of coffee. They also recommend avoiding energy drinks entirely if you have any heart rhythm issues or sensitivity to stimulants.”

The doctor emphasises that these caffeine-packed energy drinks might help you power through a workout or late nights, but they also burden your heart with more strain than you realise. “Sometimes the best energy comes from hydration, nutrition, and recovery. Not another can,” says Dr Sood.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained neurologist shares why you shouldn’t self-prescribe vitamin B12 supplements if you have numbness, tingling

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

In an age where supplements trend on social media and popular brands promise instant fixes, it’s easy to assume that every symptom points to a deficiency – especially vitamin B12. Many people start taking supplements simply because others are doing so, or because they seem harmless. But self-diagnosing and self-medicating can be risky, particularly when symptoms like numbness or tingling may have completely different underlying causes.

Always consult a medical professional before starting supplements.(Unsplash)

Also Read | AIIMS-trained neurologist shares warning signs of stroke you should never ignore: ‘Numbness in one hand and…’

Dr Rahul Chawla, a neurologist trained at AIIMS, New Delhi, consultant neurologist at IBS Hospital, Lajpat Nagar, and founder of HealthPil.com, is explaining why vitamin B12 supplements should never be taken without proper medical guidance. In an Instagram video posted on 15 November, the neurologist notes that numbness and tingling aren’t always signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency – they may indicate other underlying issues. For this reason, he warns against jumping to conclusions or self-medicating.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

According to Dr Chawla, deficiency of vitamin B12 might cause “fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, and even memory problems. In severe cases, it can also cause mood changes or difficulty walking.” However, he stresses the importance of checking your B12 levels before drawing any conclusions or starting supplements on your own, especially without a doctor’s guidance.

Vitamin B12 supplements

Dr Chawla cautions that taking vitamin supplements without testing your levels can mask the real cause of your symptoms, interfere with other nutrients, and often provide only trace amounts of vitamin B12 – far too little to tackle a deficiency.

The neurologist points out, “Do you know what the actual level of B12 is inside that supplement? It is only 15 micrograms. However, the amount we need daily to overcome a deficiency is 500 to 1500 micrograms. While 15 micrograms is acceptable for the daily requirement, if you have a deficiency, you must take appropriate dosages. Therefore, do not take supplements on your own; you must consult a doctor. If a deficiency is identified, the supplement must be taken in appropriate dosages, and it must also be confirmed whether this deficiency is truly dietary or if there is some other underlying reason.”

Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency

The neurologist outlines the causes of B12 deficiency as follows:

Poor diet (especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan)
Long-term consumption of acidity medicines
Intestinal problems that affect absorption
Certain autoimmune conditions

However, Dr Chawla stresses that numbness and tingling sensations do not always signal a vitamin B12 deficiency – they can also be signs of nerve compression, diabetes-related nerve issues or even early symptoms of neurological problems. He recommends consulting a neurologist if you experience these symptoms, instead of self-medicating.

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Twist and pout: Swetha Sivakumar on the history of the lipstick

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

It is one of the world’s oldest cosmetics. For thousands of years, people have tinted their lips as part of a beauty regimen. In Ancient Egypt, such mixes were made with henna, crushed ants and natural dyes. Today’s “kiss-proof” variants really do stay on for hours.

Red has, through the centuries, been a favourite shade.

Before we dive into the massive global lipstick industry (worth an estimated $17.4 billion in 2024), let’s take a closer look at the features they were made for: the lips themselves.

Human lips are extraordinary in both form and function. They help us eat, speak and express emotion. They form a seal for sucking, which is vital for breastfeeding infants. Packed with thousands of nerve endings, they are among the body’s most sensitive areas, helping us detect temperature and texture; allowing us to sing, whisper and kiss. Lips also act as a barrier, keeping out dirt and pathogens and holding in saliva and good bacteria.

Their natural pinkish tone comes from their anatomy. The skin here is much thinner than on the rest of the body, only three to five cell layers thick, compared to 16 or more elsewhere. Beneath it, a dense network of capillaries carry oxygen-rich blood close to the surface. Because the skin here contains very little melanin, the red of the blood shows through. This is also why lips are particularly vulnerable to sun damage, and why many balms include a sun protection factor, or SPF.

Lips differ from the rest of our skin in another important way: There are no hair follicles here, no sweat glands and no oil glands. This gives them their smooth, soft texture but also makes them prone to dryness. Licking one’s lips may seem like a quick fix, but the water in saliva dries rapidly, leaving behind salts and enzymes that strip moisture from and irritate the skin. This can lead to a cycle of dryness and cracking.

What lips need, to stay healthier, firmer and fuller for longer, is a mix of water and lipids (oils, waxes or butters) that lock in hydration. This is particularly important as one ages.

As collagen production slows with age, lips tend to lose some of their volume and definition, and can become more susceptible to dryness and sun exposure too. This is where a good lip balm, whether homemade or store-bought, comes in.

The first commercially manufactured lipstick came from France, in 1884. The perfume company Guerlain (set up in 1828, it still makes perfumes and lipsticks) used venison tallow, castor oil, beeswax and colouring agents to make smooth tints that they sold in small pots and tubes. These were applied with a brush or with the fingertips, in a rather messy, unhygienic and wasteful process.

All that changed in the 1910s, when American inventors (there is some debate over who did it first) invented the metal lipstick tube, which allowed the stick to twist upwards for use and then retract neatly. This made the product portable and far easier to use.

Today’s lipsticks remain a complex blend of waxes, oils and pigments that can deteriorate over time. They have to be produced under just the right temperatures. Too hot, and bubbles may form or the stick melt or “sweat”; too cold, and cracks can ruin the whole.

Exposure to air and light can lead to oxidation, affecting fragrance, colour and texture. Though lipsticks contain little water, bacteria and fungi can still survive on the surface, especially when preservatives weaken or storage conditions are poor.

For all these reasons, formulae are tested stringently (and it is a good idea to adhere to expiry dates).

One of the questions I always had was: How do some tints come off the stick and onto the lips so easily, and then adhere to the lips so firmly that one can eat or kiss or stand in the rain and the shade remains largely unaffected?

A key ingredient, I have learnt, is isododecane, a lightweight, fast-evaporating hydrocarbon. Because it readily evaporates at room temperature, it helps spread the colour pigments evenly on the lips, and then, as it dries, sort of locks them in. (The same ingredient is also used in smudge-proof eyeliners and mascaras.)

For that extra-glossy look, chemists turn to R. Where natural oils such as castor and jojoba provide gloss but fade quickly and feel greasy, polybutene, a viscous synthetic polymer, forms a flexible, sticky yet non-greasy film that clings to the lips for hours.

When it comes to the tints themselves, red has, through centuries, been a clear favourite. It continues to signal beauty, glamour, defiance, allure. Red is stunning, but not my colour of choice; I prefer maroon. What shade do you like best?

(To reach Swetha Sivakumar with questions or feedback, email [email protected]. The views expressed are personal)

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Shloka Mehta wows in modern ethnic look with glittering diamond jewels at a wedding with her mom. See pic

by jummy84 November 15, 2025

written by jummy84

The badi bahu of the Ambani family, Shloka Mehta, recently attended wedding festivities with her mother, Mona Mehta. Celebrity mehndi artist Veena Nagda shared the picture of the mother-daughter duo from the celebrations on Instagram.

Shloka Mehta attends wedding with her mom, Mona Mehta.

Also Read | Isha Ambani co-hosts Vogue dinner with Anna Wintour in New York dressed in a simple, figure-snatching ensemble

In the post shared on November 13, Shloka can be seen posing with Mona Mehta and Veena Nagda. She wore a beautiful, yellow modern ethnic ensemble adorned with intricate embroidery. Let’s decode her look:

Shloka Mehta’s modern ethnic fashion

Shloka’s yellow ensemble features a long ethnic jacket worn over a matching yellow silk dress. The overcoat is the highlight of her look, decked with sequin embroidery, detailed and colourful appliqué work, beaded tassel embellishments on the borders, golden patti work on the trims, and heavily embroidered patti-work borders.

Additionally, the jacket features a round neckline, an open front, a drop-shoulder design, a relaxed silhouette, full-length bell sleeves, and a full-length hem.

The styling

The Ambani family is known for their extensive personal jewellery collection, which ranges from glittering diamond necklaces to exquisite emerald and sapphire pieces. To accessorise her yellow ensemble, Shloka chose stunning pearl and diamond jewellery. She wore a choker necklace with matching jhumkis and bracelets.

Meanwhile, for her hairdo, Shloka opted to simply leave her tresses loose, with a centre parting and a few strands pinned to the back. Lastly, for the glam, she chose darkened brows, brown eyeshadow, a glossy pink lip shade, blushed cheeks, a beaming highlighter, and lightly mascara-coated lashes.

Who is Shloka Ambani?

Shloka Ambani is married to Akash Ambani, the eldest son of billionaire businessman Mukesh Ambani and his wife, Nita Ambani. They tied the knot in 2019. Shloka and Akash also have two kids – a son, Prithvi, and a daughter, Veda.

Daughter of Indian businessman Russell Mehta and Mona Mehta, she is an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist, having co-founded the social enterprise ConnectFor.

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Solo travel doesn’t mean lonely travel: Here is how to make connections on the road

by jummy84 November 14, 2025

written by jummy84

Solo travel can be one of the most freeing experiences in the world, but it also pushes you out of your comfort zone in many different and unexpected ways. Somewhere between navigating new cities, eating alone and figuring things out on your own, you learn just how open the world can be when you are, and often, the people you meet become as memorable as the places themselves.

Travel creator Sanjana Goswami (@undermypinkumbrella) believes that travelling alone doesn’t have to mean travelling lonely. In fact, she says some of the best friendships of her life began on unfamiliar streets, long bus rides, and hostel common rooms. “I have met some of the kindest, funniest, and most unexpected people while traveling solo,” she wrote in her caption. Here’s how to build real connections on the road the easy way.

Travelling alone? Here’s how to meet friends who feel like characters from your favourite travel chapter.

Get comfortable being alone first

Before you can meet new people, you need to enjoy your own company. It’s counterintuitive, but true. When you’re relaxed, content and moving at your own rhythm, you naturally give off an energy that invites conversation. Whether you’re reading in a café, strolling through a market, or eating alone without guilt, that comfort becomes the first step to forming friendships.

Say “yes” more often

Solo travel opens the door to spontaneous opportunities and saying yes to them can change your entire trip. If someone at your hostel asks if you want to join them for dinner, a beach day, or a sunrise hike, go. You don’t make memories by sitting in your bunk.

Take group tours

If you’re shy or unsure where to begin, group activities take the pressure off. Walking tours, cooking classes, pub crawls, art workshops, and day hikes offer built-in shared experiences, which make bonding feel natural instead of forced. You’re all learning, exploring or laughing together, and that becomes an instant icebreaker.

Stay in hostels

You don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy hostel life. Many modern hostels are clean, safe and beautifully designed, and their common rooms, kitchen spaces and nightly events are designed to help travellers mingle. Movie nights, game evenings, local food tastings or rooftop gatherings can lead to friendships that last long after checkout.

Ask questions and stay curious

If you ever find yourself stuck, remember this: curiosity is charm. Simple questions like “Where are you from?”, “Where did you just travel from?”, or “Do you have any recommendations for tonight?” can open entire conversations. Most solo travellers want to talk, they’re just waiting for someone else to start.

Know that solo travel doesn’t mean lonely travel

The biggest mindset shift? Realising you don’t need a group to belong. Be open, be kind, and trust that connection happens in surprising ways; on trains, in queues, at cafés, or while watching a sunset next to a stranger. Your next friend could literally be on the next bus.

November 14, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Fishing lures. Pet toys. Art supplies. Advent calendars offer personalized ways to count down

by jummy84 November 14, 2025

written by jummy84

Not so many years ago, a typical advent calendar was a basic cardboard box containing some chocolates or other candies behind little daily windows.

Fishing lures. Pet toys. Art supplies. Advent calendars offer personalized ways to count down

Today, advent calendars have evolved into creatively designed collections that dispense items ranging from pet toys to soaps, fishing equipment to art supplies. They make for festive decor, and appeal to our love of ritual, surprise and small things.

Of course, if you’re gifting an advent calendar, you’ll want to give it early, in time for your recipients to count down the days to Christmas or a milestone.

Here are some countdown calendars that cater to different interests when promising daily doses of joy.

Because they’ve been good boys and girls this year, consider a daily treat calendar for the household’s pets.

Petco’s got Merry Makings’ feline calendar, with 12 days of catnip goodies and toys behind the doors of a cute cottage. There’s one for dogs, too, with biscuits, chewies and small plush toys. $25-$30.

New York-based dog-snack maker Bocce’s Bakery has a 12-day calendar containing their signature wheat-, corn- and soy-free treats, made with ingredients like peanut butter, banana and chickpeas. $14.

A cat calendar at Trader Joe’s has freeze-dried sweet potato and salmon treats, while their dog version is all about the chicken — also freeze-dried. $7.99.

What nature lover wouldn’t love a pretty calendar with different kinds of flower seeds? Terrain has a box of seven seed bombs, each packaged in a decorative ornament — bees, butterflies, bunnies and birds among them. Hang them on the tree until planting season, then watch your pot or garden as chamomile, clovers, coriander, marigold and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers greet the spring. $48.

Needlecraft artist Amanda Watson in Bend, Oregon, created a calendar you stitch yourself — one new design each day from Dec. 1 through Christmas. It’s an embroidery project even newbies can handle, and the finished artwork could be framed, or turned into a tote or pillow. $45.

A fun one for crafty kids: Mondo Llama’s 25 Days of Christmas Crafts calendar, with all the sticks, foam and felt pieces, mini markers, googly eyes and more to make a bunch of cute holiday crafts. $30.

Slots in Uncommon Goods’ Craft Project calendar hold your finished buildings so you can assemble a colorful village to display throughout the holidays; the kit includes paint markers, watercolors, glittery gel pens and more. $95.

Kids 8 and up would have a great time messing around with the Experiment a Day Science Advent Calendar from Thames & Kosmos, a science education-focused toys and games company. Supplies are included for chemistry, biology and physics experiments. Uncommon Goods. $40.

Also from Thames & Kosmos is an advent calendar version of its escape-room board games. Exit: The Game involves an intergalactic race, and each day offers a clue to get to the end. $49.95.

Colitt has a calendar for fishing fans: 24 reusable lures come in a calendar box featuring a fierce denizen of the deep on the cover. $54.99.

The Purple Cow’s 24 Family Games calendar has brainteasers, dice, and outdoor and nostalgic activities for the gang to enjoy. $40.

And for those who love “Wicked,” there’s Centric Beauty’s “Wicked”-themed advent calendar, with sparkly, shimmery balms, powders and stick-ons for lips, eyes and nails. $16.49.

For more gift guides and holiday coverage, visit /hub/gift-guide and /hub/holidays.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

November 14, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Can your music taste make you happier? Study suggests it’s complicated

by jummy84 November 14, 2025

written by jummy84

Ever heard the saying that music reveals who you are? Like a peek into your mind? Does your preferred music genre choice make you happier or more melancholic? You may think that someone who enjoys energetic music may be bubbly and happy, while those who listen to atmospheric, indie tracks may be more cynical and sad.

Music gives a glimpse into the personality and general mental wellness.(Picture credit: Freepik)

But it turns out that the reality is much more nuanced, and various other factors are involved. A study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that while your playlist does say something about your mood, it may not reflect the entire picture.

ALSO READ: Feeling stressed? 5 types of calming music you need to put on your playlist

What did the study find?

Listening to sad music doesn't make you a sad person. (Picture credit: Freepik) — Listening to sad music doesn’t make you a sad person. (Picture credit: Freepik)

The researchers examined data from 8,879 adult twins in Sweden. The participants were asked about their favourite music genre. The researchers also wanted to evaluate if liking a certain music genre actually improves or worsens wellbeing, or if it’s linked to other wider factors such as genetics or family background. Twins were used in the survey because they share almost the same genetic information and grow up in the same family environment.

Participants who liked genres like pop, gospel, or Swedish dance music scored slightly higher in well-being. Those who liked indie music scored a bit lower. But when they looked at identical twins, there was no difference in happiness. This means music by itself does not directly influence happiness or sadness.

What does this imply?

This means your music tastes do not make you happy or sad. You can enjoy any genre, from pop and metal to indie, without actually worrying whether it will affect your overall well-being. In the moment, music may influence your feelings.

For example, an upbeat song can lift your spirits as yoy tap your feet, while indie music may create a more reflective or melancholic mood. But in the end, these effects are only temporary, based on what energy you pick from the tunes. They don’t heavily impact your happiness and other aspects of emotional well-being.

Long story short, you can enjoy whatever music genre you want to, without fearing that it will impact your emotional well-being. You can stop throwing shade at your friend who enjoys heavy metal and let everyone groove to their own preferred tunes.

November 14, 2025 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts