lifestyle
Zumba: Dance Your Way into Fitness
Fitness is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and there are many ways to achieve it. Dance-based workouts have become popular fitness options, which are fun and engaging ways to get into shape. Zumba dance is one such workout that has gained popularity in recent years, offering a high-energy and rhythmic exercise experience. Let's dive into the history, benefits, and risks of the Zumba dance.
What is Zumba Dance?
Zumba dance involves interval workouts. The high/low-intensity dance moves can boost cardiovascular fitness while also improving balance, coordination, and agility of the body. Additionally, beginners can benefit from the choreography as it contributes to a moderate level of strength training.
The Zumba class doesn't require any prior dancing experience. However, individuals with a natural sense of rhythm can learn dance moves and workouts more easily. Zumba classes primarily feature Latin-inspired music with a slow warm-up song that gradually increases in intensity throughout the class, followed by a cool-down song. The repetitive nature of the choreography makes it easy to pick up, even for those with limited dancing skills.
Read More: 10 Energy Healing Methods: Which One is Right for You?
Usually, a Zumba class doesn't have a competitive environment like regular dance training classes, so the participants can enjoy the workouts and relax.
History of Zumba Dance
Alberto “Beto” Perez, a fitness instructor and choreographer, created Zumba in the mid-1990s. The official Zumba website describes the genesis of this exercise phenomenon as a “happy accident.” One day Beto forgot his regular music while teaching an aerobics class. He had to improvise. So, Beto used Latin dance music (salsa and merengue) tapes that he had with him. It led to a class that mixed dance and aerobics in a fun and engaging way, without strict rep-counting. After that Beto started to integrate music and dancing into his other classes and called it "Rumbacize".
Zumba gained popularity day by day. In 2001, Beto brought it to Miami, where he connected with two other individuals. The trio created a fitness video series. The term “Zumba” was coined for its similarity to the term "rumba", which refers to the Cuban musical genre. However, the dance form was called “Sumba” for some days.
Read More: Is Gym Good for Women?
Insight Venture Partners and the Raine Group invested in 2012 for expanding Zumba into class instruction. By 2015, there were about 14 million Zumba students in 186 countries.
Benefits of Zumba Dance
Diversity and Accessibility
Zumba's versatility as a workout program, coupled with its extensive availability and wide range of class styles, makes it a suitable option for almost everyone, regardless of their fitness level and interests.
For instance, if someone loves swimming, he or she can go for Aqua Zumba classes which are offered by some swimming pools. Besides these, Zumba classes are also available in some public parks where visitors can participate.
Read More: Healthy Weight Gain Strategies: Add pounds fast safely, naturally
General Fitness
As Zumba continues to remain popular, several studies have been conducted to examine its effectiveness. A 2016 literature review concluded that Zumba is an effective workout for improving cardiovascular fitness, with some limited evidence suggesting possible benefits for muscular fitness and flexibility.
Sustainability
Consistency is key when it comes to exercise, and a program that is enjoyable is more likely to be adhered to. Therefore, it's important to find a workout that is both effective and enjoyable. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, Zumba has good feasibility and adherence, making it a sustainable program for sedentary adults with metabolic syndrome. This suggests that Zumba can be an effective and enjoyable way to achieve long-term fitness goals.
Read More: Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy
5 Nontraditional Biryani Recipes
Biryani is a mixed rice dish, originating among Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. Extremely popular across South Asia, similar dishes are also popular and prepared in other parts of the world including Iraq, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. Usually, Biryani is prepared with spices (Indian), rice, and some type of red meat or chicken. It can also be cooked without red meat, with potatoes, eggs, and other vegetables. Let’s explore delectable nontraditional biryani recipes.
5 Healthy Biryani Recipes
Jackfruit Biryani Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup curd, 1 tsp ginger garlic paste, ¼ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chili powder, 3 tbsp biryani masala, ½ tsp salt, 2 tsp lemon juice, 4 tsp oil, 3 tbsp coriander (chopped), 3 tbsp mint (chopped), 12 pieces jackfruit (raw), 1 carrot (chopped), 1 potato (chopped), 5 beans (chopped), 2 tbsp fried barista, 2 tbsp ghee / clarified butter, 8 cubes capsicum, and 2 tbsp saffron milk.
Ingredients for biryani rice:
2 cup basmati rice, 3 bay leaves, 1 tsp pepper, ½ tsp cloves, 4 cardamoms, 2 tsp lemon juice, 2 chilies, and 1 tbsp salt.
Read More: Unique Raw Mango Recipes for Summer 2023
Instructions
First, take a bowl and the curd, 1 tsp ginger garlic paste, ¼ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chili powder, 3 tbsp biryani masala, ½ tsp salt, 2 tsp lemon juice, 2 tsp oil, 3 tbsp coriander and 3 tbsp mint, the jackfruit, carrot, potato, beans, and 2 tbsp fried onions and combine well and keep in rest for about 30 minutes.
How to cook the rice for biryani:
First, clean the rice and soak it for 20 minutes. Boil water and the spice in a deep pot and then add lemon juice, chili, and 1 tbsp salt, soaked rice and cook for 2 minutes, or as long as the rice is cooked (almost).
Now take another deep pot and heat ghee and 2 tbsp oil and add 1 bay leaf, 1-inch cinnamon, 1 black cardamom, ½ tsp cloves, and 4 cardamoms. Then add 2 onions, 1 tsp ginger garlic paste capsicum, and cook for 2 minutes. Now add vegetables (marinated) until the vegetables become tender. Finally, layer the vegetables and the cooked rice evenly and top with 2 tbsp saffron milk, 2 tbsp coriander, 2 tbsp mint, 1 tsp biryani masala, and 2 tbsp ghee and keep in low heat for 30 minutes.
Read More: 8 Delectable Kabab Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen.
Vegetable Biryani Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup basmati rice (soaked), 6 cardamoms, 4 cloves divided, 1 teaspoon salt, 2.5 tablespoon ghee, 2 medium red onion (thinly sliced), 2 tablespoons cashews (broken), 1 small potato cubed, 1/2 cup cauliflower, 1 medium carrot, 5-6 green beans, 2 tbsp saffron milk, 1-inch ginger (crushed), 4-5 garlic cloves (crushed), 2 green chilies, 1.5 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 1 bay leaf, 1/3 cup yogurt, 1.5 teaspoon biryani masala, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped mint, and 1.5 teaspoon rose water.
8 Delectable Kabab Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
"Kabab" or "kebab" (Persian) or "kebap" (Turkish) refers to a dish that is prepared from grilled beef, mutton, or chicken. Fish kababs have also become popular. In some recipes, kabab is combined with grilled vegetables. Kababs originated in the Middle East and Central Asia. Let's take a look at 8 mouth-watering kabab recipes for Bangladeshi kitchens.
Kabab Recipes to Try This Eid-ul-Fitr
Shammi Kabab
Ingredients
500 gm mutton (chopped into cubes), 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds, one-fourth teaspoon green cardamom (powdered), 1/2 tablespoon garlic (sliced), 10 green cardamoms, salt (as required), 1 egg (boiled ), 4 tablespoon chana dal, 1/4 teaspoon spice black pepper, 2 tablespoons red chili powder, 1/2 tablespoon ginger (sliced), 1/2 tablespoon clove, 1 tablespoon garam masala powder, and water (as required).
For filling:
2 onions (finely chopped), 2 green chilies (finely chopped), a handful of coriander leaves (finely chopped )
Preparations
First, take a pan and place the mutton, water, red chili powder, cumin seeds, black pepper, green cardamom powder, chana dal, garlic, ginger, cardamom pods, clove, and salt. Cook for around 40 minutes until the water evaporates and the meat becomes tender.
Then, grind the mixture to make a paste when it is cool. Now add a tablespoon of garam masala, and egg (mashed). Prepare the stuffing also with chopped onion, coriander leaves, green chilies, and salt.
Now, give the kababs shape using the mutton mixture. Stuff the kababs with the stuffing mixture. Deep fry on both sides of the kabab as long as they become brown. Serve hot with green chutney.
Read More: 5 Easy Crab Recipes for the Seafood Lovers
Seekh Kabab
Ingredients
2 cups keema (minced mutton/beef), 1 tbsp vinegar, 2 tbsp fenugreek leaves, 1/2 tbsp garlic paste, half tbsp ginger paste, 1 1/2 tbsp salt, 1/4 tbsp black pepper (powdered), 1/4 tbsp garam masala, 2 tbsp coriander leaves (chopped), 1 tbsp green chilies (finely chopped), 6 skewers, 2 tbsp oil (for brushing), ½ tbsp chaat masala, and 6-8 lemon wedges.
Preparations
For the marination:
Take a bowl and combine minced meat with a few tbsp of vinegar and fenugreek leaves. Then gradually add garlic paste, ginger paste, salt, black pepper, coriander leaves, and green chilies. Next, marinate the mixture for 5-6 hours in the refrigerator.
For the kababs:
First, prepare the oven to 375 degrees or 205 degrees C. Then shape the meat mixture into long 'tubes' around the skewers and place them into the pre-prepared oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Brush the oil and cook for extra 2 minutes. Once done, place the Kabab carefully in a dish. Spread chaat masala on top the Kabab. Decorate with onions and lemons wedges. Serve hot with chutney (green).
Read More: 5 Drumstick Recipes for Snacks Lovers
Jali kabab
Ingredients
250gm keema, 1 piece of bread (soaked), 3 tablespoons fried onion, ginger paste 1 teaspoon, garlic paste 1/2 teaspoon, green papaya paste 1 teaspoon, red chili powder 1/4 teaspoon, special kabab masala 1 teaspoon, nutmeg powder a pinch, chopped mint 1 tablespoon, chopped coriander leaves 1 tablespoon, chopped green chili 1 tbsp, 1 egg (beaten), and salt (as required).
For coating and frying:
2 eggs, water (as required), bread crumbs, and oil (as required).
Preparations
First, take a bowl and mix all the ingredients except the coating and frying ingredients. Mix everything nicely and give the Kabab shape. Put the prepared Kabab in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes to have a firm shape of the kabab.
Meanwhile, beat the eggs with little water. Then dip the Kabab first into the beaten egg and then coat them with bread crumbs. Again dip them into the egg and deep fry them. Make sure you lightly sprinkle some egg mixture in a circular motion into the oil so that there creates that net effect. Serve hot with biriyani or pulao.
Read More: Shahi Tukda Recipes for People Who Love Desserts
Muthi Kabab
Ingredients
For kabab:
mutton mince 1 kg, garlic 15 cloves, green chilli 6, ginger 3-inch piece, onion 1 large, dry fenugreek leaves 1 tbsp, red chilli powder 1 tsp, crushed red chilli 2 tsp, coriander seeds 2 tbsp (dry roasted), cumin seeds 1-1/2 tbsp (dry roasted), garam masala powder 1 tsp, salt 1 tsp, fresh coriander 2 tbsp, fresh mint 2 tbsp, and raw papaya paste 1-1/2 tbsp.
Preparations
First, mix mutton mince and papaya paste mix and marinate it for 2 hours. If needed, add 4 to 5 Tbsp of water to this mixture.
Then blend garlic, green chilli, ginger, onion, fenugreek leaves, red chilli powder, crushed red chilli, coriander, cumin, garam masala powder, and salt nicely. Then add coriander, and mint leaves and grind again.
Next, add mutton and papaya paste into the blender and blend to get a smooth paste. Mix everything well and then give the Kabab shape. Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan and bake both sides of each Kabab for 10-12 minutes. Serve with paratha and mint chutney.
Read More: 5 Delightful Chinese Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen
Unique Raw Mango Recipes for Summer 2023
Raw or unripe mango is a highly nutritious and healthy fruit available at the beginning of the summer season in Bangladesh. Raw mango is enriched with carbohydrates, protein, fats, fibre, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin B3. It also contains antioxidants that serve as an immunity booster. It has cardio-protective properties and anticancer agents also. The tangy flavor of raw mangoes soothes our souls during the scorching heat of summer days. Let’s take a look at 8 amazing green mango recipes to try in the summer of 2023.
8 Amazing Raw Mango or Kacha Aam Recipes to Try at Home
Corn and Raw Mango Salad
Ingredients
1 cup corn, 1 tbsp onions, 3 tbsp spring onions, 1/2 red bell pepper, 1 tbsp raw mango (diced), 6 tomatoes, 1 tbsp pineapple (diced), 1 tsp coriander leaves, 4 basil leaves, 2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp white pepper powder.
Inverter AC Prices in Bangladesh in 2023
With temperatures rising in Bangladesh as summer sets in, many people are suffering from diverse health issues. Controlling the temperature, air conditioners can help us stay cool and comfortable indoors. However, many of us worry about the electricity bill at the end of the month. Inverter ACs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their energy-saving features and cost-effectiveness. Let’s take a look at the specs, features, and price ranges of some inverter ACs available in Bangladesh.
10 Inverter Air Conditioners in Bangladesh
Inverter ACs in Bangladesh below BDT 50000 Price Range
Gree GS-12XFV32 AC (1 Ton)
The Gree GS-12XFV32 1 Ton Split Type Inverter Air Conditioner is a top-of-the-line AC. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU/Hr, it can efficiently cool an area of up to 120 square feet.
One of its key features is the cold plasma, which ensures clean air for breathing. The air guide louver and top-mounted filter make it a fully closed unit that provides only the cleanest air. It also has an auto-clean function that eliminates moisture inside the unit, preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Its sleep mode gradually increases the temperature every hour, giving the residents a comfortable airflow. This AC's quiet mechanism makes it perfect for a good night's sleep. The Gree GS-12XFV32 also has AI control with a WiFi remote, allowing long-distance control of the unit for on and off, temperature, and fan speed.
Additionally, it comes with a 10-year compressor warranty, making it a reliable investment. The latest price of this high-end AC in Bangladesh is around BDT 48,450.
Read More: Walton launches European brand ACC's air conditioner
Midea Inverter AC (1.5 Ton)
Midea's MSI-12HRIAG1 is a split-type air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 1 ton or 12,000 BTU. It covers an area of 120 to 150 square feet and features six health filters, multi-fan speeds, and turbo cooling for quick cooling.
The powerful Hitachi compressor allows for precise temperature control, and there is a remote control for easy operation. It also has an on/off timer and energy-efficient inverter technology, with a low voltage startup and a rotary-type compressor.
The copper condenser and R410 gas are other notable features. The air conditioner costs around BDT 42,000 in Bangladesh.
Read More: Air Conditioner Brands, Buyer Guide, Models, with Price in Bangladesh
Inverter ACs in Bangladesh within BDT 50000-75000 Price Range
Haier's HSU-18 EnergyCool
Haier's HSU-18 EnergyCool air conditioner is an efficient and innovative product that promises to keep any room cool and clean. This split AC has a BTU of 18000/hr, and it covers an area of 180 square feet. The device boasts a self-cleaning rate of 99.9%. Its Cold Expansion Technology freezes the vapor in the air and removes dissolved dirt. Moreover, it has a 65% energy-saving inverter and a power consumption of 1680W. The AC can operate smoothly at a low voltage of 140V and has a surge protection of 550V.
With a 30s instant chill and 15m long-distance flow, this product ensures optimal cooling and air circulation. It also has a 7-segment display and runs quietly, with an indoor sound power level of 46 dB. The AC costs around BDT 58,500 in Bangladesh.
Read More: Samsung air conditioner manufacturing plant launched in Narsingdi
Samsung AR12TVHYDWKUFE
Samsung has launched its latest AR12TVHYDWKUFE 1 Ton Split Type Inverter Air Conditioner, which features highly energy-efficient Digital Inverter Boost technology. With its 15% larger fan, 18% wider inlet, and 31% wider blade, the Samsung AR12TVHYDWKUFE can cool rooms quickly and efficiently, reaching up to 15 meters.
It also features an auto-clean function, an easy-to-clean anti-bacterial filter, DuraFin for enhanced performance, and Triple Protector Plus technology for protection against harsh conditions.
The Samsung AR12TVHYDWKUFE 1 Ton split type inverter AC is available for purchase in Bangladesh at a price of 62,310 BDT, with delivery and free installation facilities provided.
Read More: How to Use ACs (Air Conditioners) Safely Amid COVID19 Pandemic?
WSI-INVERNA (SUPERSAVER)-18C (Walton)
The WSI-INVERNA (SUPERSAVER)-18C is an inverter air conditioner that offers powerful cooling with an 18000 BTU/hr capacity. The unit operates on a rated voltage of 230V~50Hz and has a rated input power of 1318W with a cooling capacity of 5275W.
The air conditioner features a rotary compressor, which helps to save energy and reduce operating costs. It uses R-32 refrigerant and has a refrigerant amount of 0.58kg.
The WSI-INVERNA (SUPERSAVER)-18C has a microchannel condenser for maximum efficiency. The indoor unit measures 942 x 321 x 238mm while the outdoor unit measures 865 x 370 x 687 mm. The unit has a net weight of 12.5kg for the indoor unit and 32kg for the outdoor unit. It is designed to operate in ambient temperatures ranging from 20˚C to 43˚C.
The WSI-INVERNA (SUPERSAVER)-18C inverter AC is priced at BDT 72,000.
Read Above: Why do Air Conditioners explode? How can we prevent them?
Inverter ACs in Bangladesh within BDT 75000-100000 Price Range
Hitachi RAS-DX18CJ
It's a 1.5 Ton DC inverter AC that offers energy efficiency with 60% energy saving. The AC has a cooling capacity of 18000 BTU and can cover an area of 120–180 Sq Ft. The RAS-DX18CJ comes with a remote control, timer, and temperature adjustment features for added convenience. Its super air purifying system ensures clean air for the user, while the anti-corrosion treatment helps to protect the AC from damage.
Delicious Bhorta Recipes for This Pahela Baishakh
Bhorta (mashed) food items are an integral part of Bengali cuisine. Especially, during the scorching heat of summer days, bhorta made with vegetables, greens, or peels can keep the body cool and the mind at peace. Besides, bhorta items can be made with fish that are either boiled, steamed, baked, charred, or lightly fried. During Pahela Baishakh, or Bengali New Year, Bangladeshis love to eat different bhorta items along with panta rice and fried hilsa fish. Let’s take a look at 10 mouth-watering bhorta recipes to celebrate this Pahela Baishakh.
10 Tasty Bhorta Recipes for Pahela Baishakh
Egg-Potato Mashed Recipe (Dim-Aloo Bhorta)
Ingredients
Potatoes - 3-4, egg - 1 (boiled), onion - 1/8 cup (chopped), dry red chilies - 4 (as you like), salt - ½ teaspoon, and mustard oil - 2 tbsp.
Preparations
First, wash potatoes and eggs properly. Now boil potatoes in 4 cups of water for 20 minutes in a deep pan. Then add the egg and cook for another 12 minutes. When the potatoes become tender and the egg boils well, take them out of the hot water. Don’t put potatoes in the hot water for a long time as they will be too soft and moist by absorbing water. Then peel the potatoes and egg after they cool down.
Now, take a bowl and mash the potatoes and egg. Meanwhile, take another bowl and mash roasted red chilies, and onion. Add the red chili mixture to the potato-egg mash and combine it well. Finally, add mustard oil and continue mashing till the potatoes have a sticky texture. Garnish and serve with plain rice.
Read More: 11 Summer Iftar Drink Recipes to Fight Dehydration.
Mashed Almond Recipe (Badam Bhorta)
Ingredients
½ cup almonds, 4-5 chilies (dry roasted), ⅛ cup chopped onion, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tbsp mustard oil.
Preparations
First, fry the almonds. Wait until the almonds become cool. After cooling, grind them. Then add onion slices, pepper, and salt to the almond batter. Finally, pour mustard oil and mix the combination well again. Enjoy with rice.
Read More: The Ultimate Dining Experience: Dhaka Cloud Kitchen & Catering Services operating in Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara and Bashundhara
Mashed Lentil Recipe (Dal Bhorta)
Ingredients
1 cup Masoor Daal, 2 cloves garlic, ½ tsp turmeric powder, ⅛ cup chopped onions, 1 tsp salt (as needed), 1/8 cup coriander leaves (chopped), 2-3 tbsp mustard oil, and 3-4 dry red chili.
Preparations
First, wash and clean the lentils. Now boil 1 cup of lentils with 2 cups of water in a deep pan for 8-10 minutes. Skim off the foams that come on top of the lentils during cooking. After boiling, add the turmeric and garlic to the pan. When water decreases, minimize the heat and cover the pan. As soon as the water has completely evaporated, remove the pan from the stove.
Meanwhile, fry dry chilies in another pan, and when they become blackish-brown, remove the pan. Now mash the roasted chilies and put salt into them. Add chopped onion, coriander leaves, and mustard oil to the mixture of boiled lentils and mashed dried chili. Now mash the mixture thoroughly by hand. Add extra salt if needed. Enjoy the bhorta with rice.
Read More: Delicious Jackfruit Recipes to Try Out Today
11 Summer Iftar Drink Recipes to Fight Dehydration
Fasting during the scorching summer days requires addressing dehydration needs. As the body loses liquids, one needs to consume healthy drinks at Iftar to avoid dehydration. Refreshing, and healthy drinks can help to stay hydrated, vitalize the organs, restore strength, and prepare the body for the next day's fasting. Let’s take a look at the 11 best Iftar drinks.
Nutritious Iftar Drinks to Stay Hydrated in Summer
Dates Honey Milkshake Recipe
Ingredients
10 dates, 200 ml milk (boiled and warm), 2 - 3 tsp honey.
Instructions
First, wash the dates and remove extra water with a kitchen towel. Then deseeded the dates and chop finely. Take 100 ml boiled, warm milk and soak the chopped date for 30 minutes. Now take a food processor and blend soaked dates and honey as long as it becomes smooth. Next, pour the rest of the 100 ml milk and blend again for 1/2 minute. Serve in a glass and enjoy a healthy and yummy dates honey milkshake.
Read More: The Ultimate Dining Experience: Dhaka Cloud Kitchen & Catering Services operating in Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara and Bashundhara
Bel Sharbat Recipe
Bel Sherbet is not only a refreshing drink but a nostalgia also for most of us. Bels are a great source of vitamin C, minerals, and dietary fibers and people use them for ages to cure earaches, diabetes, respiratory problems, and liver and kidney conditions.
Ingredients
1 wood apple, 500 ml water, 1 handful mint leaves, 1 tablespoon sugar, 4 ice cubes, 1 teaspoon cumin powder
Instructions
First, wash the wooden apple in the running water and then cut it. Take a spoon and remove the pulp from the wooden apple and put it in a bowl. Soak the bel pulp in water for 2 hours and refrigerate.
After 2 hours take out from the refrigerator and mash the bel well and strain. Next, add the other ingredients and mix well until the sugar dissolves. Pour in glass and garnish with a pinch of jeera powder and chopped mint leaves and enjoy.
Read More: Homemade Ice Cream Recipes Using Seasonal Fruits for This Summer
Watermelon Juice Recipe
Ingredients
1 watermelon, 1 lime juice (optional)
Instructions
First, cut the watermelon and scoop chunks of sweet watermelon using a spoon. Then blend the watermelon so that it is totally ground. If you wish to get the extra flavor, add the juice of one small lemon and blend for an extra few seconds. You can also strain the mixture if the watermelon is notably seeded. Pour in a glass and enjoy. You can preserve watermelon juice in the refrigerator for 4 days. Stir before drinking.
Read More: Natural Sweeteners: 7 Healthy Alternatives of Refined Sugar
10 Affordable Travel Destinations Abroad for Eid Holidaymakers
With the Eid holidays approaching, many holidaymakers are looking for affordable and exciting travel destinations abroad. Fortunately, there are numerous options available that offer unique experiences without breaking the bank. There is something for everyone, from stunning beaches to ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage. Let’s explore some of the best and most affordable travel destinations for Bangladeshi Eid holidaymakers.
10 affordable international travel destinations for Eid holidaymakers from Bangladesh
During the long holiday of Eid, a considerable number of individuals opt to travel overseas. Airlines and tour companies provide diverse offers to entice travelers during this festive season. Here are some of the most affordable yet nicest destinations to explore during the Eid holiday.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Malaysia is a treasure trove of attractions that tourists would not want to miss. Depending on the date, a one-way air ticket starts from Tk 33,000, and depending on the area, the hotel price starts from Tk 5000 per night for two people. However, if you go with a tour package through different agencies, the price will be quite low.
Read More: How to Obtain an International Automobile Driving License from Bangladesh?
The country consists of a rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage that is simply breathtaking. The capital city of Kuala Lumpur alone is home to numerous architectural landmarks and historical sites that are worth exploring.
The Ultimate Dining Experience: Dhaka Cloud Kitchen & Catering Services operating in Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara and Bashundhara
The cloud kitchen scene has had a boom in the last few years partly due to the health restrictions and safe distancing needs that arose during the pandemic. People got more used to the concept of ordering in and having a great meal from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Read More: Bangladesh Cloud Kitchen Business Heralds Improved Food Delivery Services
This paradigm shift in dining choice has made way for several cloud kitchens based in different areas of Dhaka. The newest addition is the Dhaka Cloud Kitchen & Catering Services. The cloud kitchen is currently operating in the “tri-state” area (Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara) along with Bashundhara.
On March 2, Dhaka Cloud Kitchen pulled off a successful delivery of 150 customised packages and exceptional catering services to Dhaka WASA.
Helicopter Parenting: Signs, Pros, Cons and How to Change
Parenting is a lifelong process with its own unique challenges and rewards. From the joys of watching a child’s first steps to the difficulties of managing teenage years, parenting is a complex and multifaceted role. It involves a child’s physical, emotional, and social needs, along with guidance that can shape his/her future. Parenting has different dimensions and styles; in this article, we are going to talk about helicopter parenting.
What is Helicopter Parenting?
Helicopter parenting refers to an overly involved and overprotective approach – sometimes to the detriment of the children. The term “helicopter” refers to the way in which these parents “hover over” their children and are constantly monitoring their every move.
Even though parents do this out of love for their children, this type of parenting can have a negative impact on children as it can stifle their independence and hinder their ability to make decisions on their own. Often, they are called “hovering parents” because they constantly watch over their kids and intervene at the first sign of any trouble.
Read More: How to raise happy, confident, strong girls
Origin of the term “Helicopter Parenting”
In 1969, Dr. Haim Ginott first used the term “helicopter parent” in his book “Between Parent & Teenager” where teenagers described their parents hovering over them like a helicopter. Other identical terms are “lawnmower parenting”, “cosseting parent”, or “bulldozer parenting”.
Helicopter parenting is defined by excessive focus on children, and taking too much responsibility for their experiences, successes, or failures. Gradually it turns into being overprotective, over-controlling, and over-perfecting, in a way that exceeds responsible parenting.
Signs of Helicopter Parenting
Helicopter parents mostly micromanage their children’s lives, controlling and monitoring their every move, often taking it to an extremely inappropriate level. They are ready to swoop in to rescue their children at the slightest obstacle.
Read More: 15 Gift Ideas for a Newborn Baby
Here are some clear signs of helicopter parenting in different stages of a child’s life:
Overly involved parents always excessively monitor and correct their children, preventing them from making their own moves, interactions, how to play with specific toys, etc., hindering their ability to learn and explore. It starts when a toddler starts to walk, and falls, and some parents go to extreme lengths to prevent any minor scratches.
In later stages, helicopter parents may complete their children’s homework, choose their friends and activities, and even attend job fairs and job interviews alongside them. They may also advise children during games and talk to coaches after every practice.
In childhood, parents are expected to take care of the household chores for kids. But cleaning a teen’s room, and doing a college student’s laundry is over-parenting and leads to deprivation of learning basic life skills.
Read More: How to deal with your demanding child?
Children learn from their mistakes through trial and error. Helicopter parenting or always showing the right way to do it hinders their growth in tackling problems.
Pros and Cons of Helicopter Parenting
Despite the negative portrayal in popular media, several studies show helicopter parenting has been found to have both positive and negative outcomes. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of over-parenting.
Pros of Helicopter Parenting
Cognitive Skills: Parental involvement is a crucial factor in a student's intellectual, academic, and emotional development. It leads to improved attitudes towards school, better homework habits, social behavior, and enhanced academic achievement.
Life Skills:
Research suggests that helicopter parenting can have positive impacts on student development in areas like decision-making, physical and mental health, and career development.
Read More: How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them
Psychological Adjustment:
Studies say children of helicopter parents who receive support and proper guidance have better psychological adjustment and life satisfaction than others.
Proper Guidance:
Children of helicopter parents tend to be punctual, well-prepared, and receive significant support and guidance in their daily lives. They work tirelessly to address any problem their child may encounter and actively participate in school activities and groups.
Effective Communication:
Effective communication is the most important thing in a parent-children relationship. Helicopter parents and their teens are most likely to have friendly and clear communication about their whereabouts.
Read More: Common Sleep Problems in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help
Cons of Helicopter Parenting
Though parental involvement in their children’s education has been acknowledged to be beneficial, overprotective parenting can result in negative outcomes on their mental health.
Psychological Issues:
According to several studies, children with too involved parents in their children’s education at inappropriate developmental levels often develop psychological issues like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
Narcissistic Mindset:
Helicopter parenting is linked with higher levels of narcissism and entitlement in adult children.
Read More: Motivating Kids to Study, Do Homework, Get Good Grades: Know Secret Ways
Problem-solving Skills:
Children need to acquire problem-solving skills, but helicopter parenting can hinder this process.
Dependency on Parents:
Helicopter parenting can make children overly dependent on their parents, preventing their ability to learn essential life skills.
No Self-advocacy:
Helicopter parenting prevents children from developing self-advocacy skills that are crucial for success in school and work.
Read More: Teaching Young Kids Household Chores: 10 Easy Steps
Low Self-esteem:
Helicopter parenting makes children feel inadequate and lead to self-esteem issues. It causes difficulties with problem-solving, coping, decision-making, social interaction, responsibility, and adaptive functioning.
Absence of Natural Consequences:
Children face natural consequences in life as an integral part of growing up. Helicopter parents tend to micromanage their children's activities to prevent them from experiencing any negative outcomes.
Parent-Child Mutual Relationship:
Helicopter parenting can strain the parent-child relationship because of constant nagging and interference.
Read More: Stranger Danger: How to teach children safety rules for unknown, unsafe people
Though in some cases, it brings children and parents closer together when children appreciate the push to succeed and feel cared for by their parents. Still, it's best to avoid helicopter parenting.
How to Change
Helicopter parenting, or being overly involved in a child's life, can hinder their acquisition of crucial life skills. Parents must allow their children to fail, struggle, to be disappointed, and let them do their own tasks. Sometimes taking a step backward from helping them can be the actual help. It will make the child more resilient and boost self-confidence.
Although overprotectiveness comes from the good intention of guiding them, often it ends with controlling the children. To prevent this, parents must acknowledge their hovering tendency, and encourage their children to explore and grow. And if necessary, consulting a professional can be helpful.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Different strategies work better for individual families and children. Helicopter parenting hinders children’s chance of development.
Read More: Effects of Domestic Violence on Children
Raising children with guidance and support can teach them valuable life skills and independence. The desire to raise “perfect children” or compare them to others can lead to over-involvement, which may cause depression and low self-esteem in children. Parents should be aware of the signs of helicopter parenting and seek help if needed.