lifestyle
Digital Detox: Unplugging for Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing
In today's hectic urban life, stress has become a constant companion, affecting our mental wellbeing. Research suggests that information overload, constant digital connectivity, unlimited screen time and heavy use of tech devices can lead to issues such as sleep problems, depression, and increased stress levels. Amidst such situation, digital detox can help to refresh the mind and help find moments of tranquility.
A digital detox is a personal choice to temporarily disconnect from digital devices and social media. Taking a break from screens and unplugging from the online world can provide a much-needed escape from the overwhelming digital noise. Let's explore the ways of embracing a digital detox for a rejuvenated mind.
11 Ways to Unplug Temporarily from the Digital World
Set Screen-free Zones
Consider setting up designated screen-free zones in your home. Like the dining table or bedroom, as peaceful havens for unwinding and enjoying precious moments with your close ones. By creating these spaces, you can foster relaxation, encourage meaningful connections, and cherish quality time without the distractions of screens. Let these areas become sanctuaries of togetherness and tranquility in your home.
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Prioritize Real-world Connections
You can schedule frequent face-to-face meetings and outings with your loved ones. These moments hold immense value in nurturing deep connections and decreasing our dependence on virtual interactions. Engaging in real-life interactions allows us to have authentic conversations, shared experiences, and a sense of closeness that cannot be replicated online.
Set Tech-free Hours
You can try to set aside specific hours each day for complete disconnection from digital devices. During this time, give yourself the opportunity to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book, exercising, or pursuing your favorite hobbies. You can create a space for personal growth, and the fulfillment that comes from offline experiences. You can embrace this valuable time to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do
Khulna is Bangladesh's 3rd largest city after Dhaka and Chattogram. It serves as the administrative centre of Khulna district and division. Khulna is located on the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers. The city is served by the Mongla port, the country's second-largest seaport. Khulna's rich history is evident in its oldest and busiest river port. Bagerhat is another district in Khulna division that can’t be ignored while travelling in Khulna. These two districts share a few historically and culturally significant places. This article explores the ten most interesting places to see in Khulna and Bagerhat, and things to do there.
How to Reach Khulna from Dhaka
The easiest way to reach Khulna from Dhaka is by bus or train. You can take Sundarbans, or Chitra Express trains from Kamalapur Station in Dhaka to go to Khulna. You have to pay Tk. 550-1400 per seat, depending on the class. You can also take a bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station. Generally, bus tickets will cost you around Tk 650-1400 per seat.
How to Reach Bagerhat from Dhaka
You can reach Bagerhat from Dhaka in two ways. First, you can take a direct bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station to Bagerhat. It will cost around Tk 500 to 1000. The other way is to reach Khulna by train and, from there, reach the Shonadanga Bus Stand. There you will find buses for Bagerhat for Tk 100-150 per seat.
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Top 16 Tourist Attractions in Khulna and Bagerhat
Khulna Divisional Museum
The Khulna Divisional Museum, established on September 12, 1998, is the second-largest museum in Bangladesh's Khulna division. Located near Shivbari Mor in the city's Public Hall area, the museum showcases photographs of heritage sites and essential structures from the southern region. It houses rare artifacts unearthed at various excavations, including Bharat Bhayana in Jashore, Barobazar in Jhenaidah, and Khan Jahan Ali Samadhi Soudho in Bagerhat.
Visitors can explore antiquities from the Gupta, Pal, Sen, Mughal, and British periods, along with terracotta, stone and black stone statues, gold and silver coins, and diverse artifacts representing the Khulna division. Managed by the Bangladesh Archaeology department, the museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 6 pm in summer, 9 am to 5 pm in winter), for an entry fee of Tk 20 for children under five. Foreign tourists (from the SAARC region) have to pay Tk 50, and those from other nations have to pay Tk 100.
The museum is a mere 4 km away from Khulna city and is easily accessible by local transport.
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Khan Jahan Ali Bridge
Khan Jahan Ali Bridge is a prominent attraction in Khulna, drawing couples, families, and schoolchildren. It goes over the Rupsha river and is the primary entry point to Khulna city, connecting the southern districts and Mongla seaport. This Japanese-funded bridge is especially popular during festivals and weekends, offering separate lanes for pedestrians and vehicles and staircases for easy access. The bridge's western end attracts a lively crowd, while the nighttime view of Khulna city is truly mesmerizing.
11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
In Bangladesh, the two Eids make up the largest form of national festivity enjoyed by people of all ages and all walks of life. This is also the time with the longest national holiday. As a result, Eid is also a time for families to enjoy each other’s company. To add to the festivities of the day, there are lots of beautiful places in and around Dhaka that one can explore with their family and children. Here’s a list of the best ones.
Best Places to Visit In and Around Dhaka on Eid-ul-Azha 2023
Lalbagh Fort
Built in the 17th Century, the Lalbagh Fort is a monumental architectural beauty, and a testament to the Mughal brilliance. The fort was commissioned by Prince Mohammad Azam, son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Today the fort remains as an homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region. There is a large open garden kept intact in its original design. The site also houses the mausoleum of Pari Bibi, daughter of Shaista Khan, the then Subedar of Bengal.
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The fort is open every day, except for Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm. The Lalbagh Fort remains closed on Eid day, but it will be open from the second day of Eid.
Ahsan Manzil
Widely dubbed as the “Pink Palace,” Ahsan Manzil situated in Islampur, Dhaka is another exquisite architectural marvel in the city. While the Lalbagh Fort is a testament to the Mughals, Ahsan Manzil stands tall as a remnant of the Nawabs of Dhaka.
The palace was built in the early 1900s, incorporating both European and Mughal styles of architecture. The palace is also noted to be the first home to have electricity in Dhaka back in the day.
The visiting hours of Ahsan Manzil are the same as Lalbagh Fort. It also remains closed on Eid day and will open from the second day of Eid.
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Lessons of Qurbani: What does the Holy Eid-ul-Azha Sacrifice Teach Us?
Qurbani is an important religious practice for Muslims to demonstrate their devotion to Allah. In Islam, Qurbani means sacrificing something special, that is approved by religious laws, in Allah’s name for divine blessings.
Qurbani, also known as Eid-ul-Adha/ Eid-ul-Azha or the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, honors the remarkable story of Prophet Ibrahim and his act of obedience to Allah, serving as a testament to faith and devotion in Islam. This holy occasion is celebrated annually by Muslims around the world, signifying unity, compassion, and willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of Allah.
9 Teachings of Qurbani in Eid-ul-Adha
This auspicious occasion remembers the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah’s command. At the heart of this festival lies the act of Qurbani, which teaches us valuable lessons about faith, devotion, and selflessness. Let’s explore the profound lessons of Qurbani in Eid-ul-Adha.
Obedience to Allah
The story of Prophet Ibrahim teaches us that it’s most important to do what Allah asks us to do without questioning it. We should trust that Allah knows what’s best for us and have faith in His plans, even when things are tough.
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Sacrifice and Selflessness
Qurbani teaches us about sacrifice and selflessness. It shows us that it’s important to let go of our own wants and think about what others need. During Eid-ul-Adha, we sacrifice an animal to understand the meaning of giving up something valuable for the benefit of others.
During Qurban Eid, when Muslims sacrifice animals, their main goal is to cleanse their souls and get rid of negative feelings like greed, resentment, and hatred. It’s a way for them to purify themselves spiritually and focus on kindness, generosity, and love toward others.
Gratitude and Thankfulness
When we participate in Qurbani, we are reminded of the many blessings given to us by Allah. It encourages us to be thankful for the abundance He provides us with, and helps us realize the importance of appreciating the blessings we have in our lives.
Compassion and Charity
Qurbani is about being kind and helping people who are in need. It teaches us that it’s important to share the blessings in our lives with others and give to those who don’t have as much as we do.
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When we show compassion, we can offer comfort and inspiration to people near us and even far away. We have the power to give useful advice and guidance to those who need it, using our understanding and kindness, to make them feel better. We can share our good luck and love not just with our family and friends but also with strangers and those who need our help.
That’s no pizza: A wall painting found in Pompeii doesn’t depict Italy’s iconic dish
A still-life fresco discovered recently in the Pompeii archaeological site looks like a pizza, but it’s not, experts at the archaeological site said Tuesday.
They noted that key ingredients needed to make Italy’s iconic dish — tomatoes and mozzarella — were not available when the fresco was painted some 2,000 years ago.
Tomatoes were only introduced to Europe from the Americas a few centuries ago, and some histories have it that the discovery of mozzarella led directly to the invention of pizza in nearby Naples in the 1700s.
The image is instead believed to be a focaccia covered with fruit, including pomegranate and possibly dates, finished with spices or a type of pesto, experts said. In the fresco, it is served on a silver plate and a wine chalice stands next to it.
Read: 5 Yummy Homemade Pizza Recipes for Kids
The contrast of the frugal meal served in a luxurious setting, denoted by the silver tray, is not unlike modern-day pizza, “born as a poor-man’s dish in southern Italy, which has won over the world and is served even in starred restaurants,” said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii archaeological site.
The ancient Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed in the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The sudden and deadly event left much of the structure intact, embalmed in volcanic ash, and the site is now a major archaeological project and tourist attraction.
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The Coldiretti ag lobby immediately seized on the discovery of the fresco to promote pizza — invented as a quick meal for the working poor — as a national treasure. Today, pizza represents one-third of the food budget of foreign visitors and generates total annual revenues of 15 billion euros ($16.4 billion) in Italy.
The art of the Neapolitan pizzamaker was put on UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list in 2017, recognized for its four phases of dough preparation and for being baked exclusively in a wood oven at 485 degrees Celsius (905 degrees Fahrenheit.)
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Inaugural edition of 'Dhaka Makers' showcases a convivial urban rendezvous
Offering a unique and refreshing cultural breathing space to residents of the capital, Dhaka Makers raised the curtain on its inaugural event HSBC presents Dhaka Makers’ Week at the city’s Aloki Convention Center in Tejgaon.
The initiators of the event, collectively known as the Dhaka Makers - emerged with a vision to help the creative communities of Dhaka through a one-of-a-kind arts and crafts festival that would provide an opportunity for independent creators to establish their brands, collaborate with fellow artists, and share their expertise with a wide array of audiences.
The inauguration ceremony was held on the first day, initiated by the team which comprises creative inspired artists and doers - Fahd Sattar, Istela Imam, Maruful Hoque, Fairose Yasmin, Maleena Gomez, Tahsin N Choudhury, Mahenaz Chowdhury, Umaila Akhter, Zafir Huq, Taiara Farhana Tareque, and Mariha Q Chowdhury.
Anusheh Anadil and Durjoy Rahman were guests of honour at the inauguration ceremony. After their speeches, the ceremony was followed by a live performance by Bengal Parampara Sangeetalay.
Through the first-ever Dhaka Makers’ Week, the team took their first step in fostering the local arts and culture scene through an offline platform that engages artists from all creative spheres.
Their objective was to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that celebrates the city’s innovative talent through thoughtfully curated spaces – where the “Makers” or collective artisans were able to exhibit their work, sell their products, and conduct interactive workshops.
Eid-ul-Azha 2023: 5 Less Spicy, Delicious Beef Recipes for Summer
One of the special attractions during Eid-ul-Azha is the delightful array of beef dishes. However, during hot summer days, spicy food can cause digestion issues. Therefore, it makes sense to go for lighter and milder-flavoured dishes crafted for the summer season. Let’s take a look at some mouth-watering beef recipes that can be prepared with the least amount of spices.
Qurbani Eid Special Tasty Beef Recipes without a Lot of Spices
Beef and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
1 kg beef stew meat, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 ½ cup chopped onion, 2 large chopped carrots, 1/2 cup green peas, 1 cup chopped celery, 8 cups beef broth, 1 ¾ cups diced tomatoes, 500 grams diced potato, 1 cup cut green beans, ½ cup chopped green onions, 3 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon salt, and ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley.
Instructions
Start by preheating a soup pot with some oil over medium-high heat. Place the beef in the pot. Make sure it is in a single layer, and cook until nicely browned on all sides. If necessary, brown the beef in batches.
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Once the beef is browned, add onions to the pot and continue cooking for about 3 minutes, until the onions are softened and have a light golden color. Then pour in beef broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, partially cover the pot, and let it cook until the beef becomes tender. It should take around 55 to 75 minutes.
Next, add potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for approximately 20 minutes until they become tender. After that, incorporate the green beans and green onion and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, stir in fresh parsley and season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remove the pot from the heat and enjoy a bowl of hearty and flavorful beef soup.
Moheener Ghoraguli lost its founding member Tapas Bapi Das to cancer
One of the founding members of the pioneering Indian Bangla rock band ‘Moheener Ghoraguli’, and renowned songwriter, guitarist, and music connoisseur Tapas Bapi Das, who was battling lung cancer, passed away this morning.
He breathed his last at the SSKM Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal, according to several media reports.
Moheener Ghoraguli, and through the band, Tapas, revolutionised Bangla music since 1974 with a unique amalgamation of baul, jazz, folk and rock music that was complemented with melodious, soulful sounds and meaningful lyrics. Tapas was one of the most highly revered artistes in West Bengal.
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He had been battling lung cancer for a while and was in its third stage, receiving chemotherapy. Artistes in both West Bengal and Bangladesh were raising funds for his treatment ever since the news of his illness broke in January, and the West Bengal government was taking care of his treatment.
A fundraising concert by 40 leading Bangladeshi artistes for his treatment was scheduled to take place on July 14 at the Liberation War Museum in Dhaka.
Born on September 22, 1954, in Kolkata, Tapas became one of the founding members of ‘Moheneer Ghoraguli’ in 1974 alongside its original lineup -- Gautam Chattopadhyay, Ranjon Ghoshal, Pradip Chatterjee, Biswanath Bishu Chattopadhyay, Tapesh Bandopadhyay and Abraham Mazumdar. This original line-up performed together till 1978.
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After the disintegration of the band, Tapas became the mastermind and mentor behind the next-generation Bangla band ‘Moheen Ekhon O Bondhura’ in 2015.
Tapas is credited as the co-lyricist, composer, and singer of many popular tracks of ‘Moheener Ghoraguli’ including "Haay, Bhalobasi," "Bheshe Ashey Kolkata," "Shudhijon Shono,” "Ayee Surey Bohudurey" and more.
Eventholic, the organizer of the scheduled fundraising concert in Bangladesh for the legendary artiste, posted on its official Facebook page: “Even though he lost his battle with cancer, he at least got to know about this initiative, and he expressed his joy when we first discussed this concert with him. We even signed some t-shirts by him last night.”
“A tribute concert will surely take place, as we really want to stand beside his wife, Sutapa Das, and details will be revealed after two days. The show must go on,” says the post.
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Summer Safety Tips for Elderly to Avoid Heat-related Illnesses
Global warming is making summers hotter and more humid. During the summer season, the oppressive heat can take a toll on anyone, particularly the senior citizens. Due to the sweltering heat of the sun, the temperature becomes unbearable, which is increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly people.
Common Summer Heat-related Illnesses that Can Affect Senior Citizens
As people age, their bodies become less able to regulate their temperature. Elderly people especially face challenges in coping with the extreme temperatures, and their vulnerability to heat-related issues is a cause for concern.
Due to the heat and increased sun exposure, heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are common concerns. Seniors may also experience exacerbation of chronic conditions, skin problems, and vitamin D deficiency.
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10 Tips for Senior Citizens to Stay Healthy in Summer
These summer safety tips for the elderly aim to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Stay Hydrated
Sometimes elderly people forget to drink enough water. They should be encouraged to drink lots of fluids, particularly water, throughout the day. When it's hot, our bodies lose more water through sweat, making dehydration a real risk. By drinking plenty of fluids, senior citizens can keep their bodies hydrated and maintain their overall health.
Water is the best choice because it does not have any added sugar or calories. To make it easier, a water bottle can be stored nearby. They can also use mobile apps that will remind them from time to time to take a sip. Dehydration symptoms include feeling tired, dizzy, or having dry mouth, so it is essential to stay hydrated to prevent these issues and feel better during the summer heat.
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Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
The summer heat can be excruciating, with soaring temperatures that are amplified by the impact of global warming. When the mercury rises, like the adults, children often suffer different health issues. Let’s find out how parents can keep their children safe from heat-related illness.
Heat-related Illness: Heatstroke vs Heat Exhaustion
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition caused by a malfunction in the body's temperature regulation system. Often it happens due to exposure to high temperatures or intense physical exertion in hot weather.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a milder heat-related illness resulting from prolonged heat exposure and insufficient fluid intake. It occurs when the body becomes dehydrated and loses electrolytes through excessive sweating. Without proper treatment, it can cause heatstroke.
Read more: Class 7 student dies of heat stroke, 5 fall sick in Khulna
Causes of Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion in Children
Immature Thermoregulatory System
Young children have a less developed ability to regulate their body temperature compared to adults. Their sweat glands may not function as efficiently, making it more challenging for them to cool down effectively in hot environments.
Increased Surface Area to Body Weight Ratio
Usually, children have larger surface areas relative to their body weight, which means they can absorb heat from the environment more quickly. This makes them more susceptible to overheating and increases the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Limited Self-awareness
Children may not recognise the signs of overheating or may not communicate their discomfort effectively. They might continue playing or engaging in physical activities despite feeling excessively hot. It increases their risk of getting ill from high heat.
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Lack of Hydration Knowledge
Sometimes children are not aware of the importance of staying hydrated and forget to drink water regularly. Under the scorching summer sun, kids may continue playing, neglecting the necessity of fluid intake, which can increase their risk of dehydration.
Dependency on Adults
Children mostly rely on adults to provide them with water, shade, and appropriate clothing choices. If somehow a child is not adequately hydrated, does not take breaks, or does not take protective measures due to the negligence of the caregiver, he/she can be at a higher risk of heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Participation in Sports or Activities
Children engaged in intense physical activities, or playing outdoors under the sun, are more at the risk of heat exhaustion. It happens especially when proper precautions are not taken. Extended periods of exertion in hot weather without adequate rest and hydration increase the risk significantly.
Read more: Heat Stroke: Symptoms, First Aid, and Prevention
Staying in Enclosed Spaces or Vehicles
Leaving children in enclosed spaces, such as a parked car under the sun, even for a short time, can be harmful for their health. Due to summer heatwaves, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise quickly, posing a severe risk of heatstroke or even death.
Lack of Adjustment
Children who have not acclimatised gradually to hot weather conditions are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses. Sudden exposure to extreme heat overwhelms their bodies. Their organs may struggle to regulate the body-temperature effectively.
Certain Medical Conditions
Children with specific medical conditions, such as asthma, obesity, diabetes, or heart disease, may have a higher risk of heat-related illnesses. These conditions can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature or increase the vulnerability to dehydration.
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It is essential to be careful of these causes and take necessary precautions to protect children from excessive heat exposure. To ensure they remain adequately hydrated in hot environments is essential.