United News of Bangladesh

In recent years, homes have taken on multiple roles. They serve as offices, entertainment spaces, and in today’s stressful world, they are often the place where we find peace. The pandemic prompted many transformations: dens became offices, extra bedrooms turned into workout spaces, and dining rooms became multifunctional areas. Now, more homes are incorporating wellness spaces — the so-called “wellness room.” Designer Gonzalo Bueno, owner of Ten Plus Three in Dallas, notes that spaces for wellness, retreat, and recharging are trending. He has designed small home gyms, music rooms, meditation areas, and Zen gardens. One of his recent projects in Austin, Texas, features a Zen garden outdoors with a meditation room and a soaking tub facing a tranquil green space. Holistic and Tech-Enhanced Wellness Soundbathing, a practice of immersing in calming sounds, has gained popularity at spas and is now being adapted for home use. You can create a low-tech soundbathing space with pillows, yoga mats, essential oils, and calming sounds like chimes and gongs. There are also beds and mats with built-in sound vibrations for a more immersive experience. Stressed or sick? Swiss town offers free museum therapy For those seeking alternative wellness features, infrared saunas are an easier-to-install option compared to traditional steam saunas. These saunas come in various sizes and may include Bluetooth audio and color-changing lights. For a luxury experience, multi-sensory shower units offer customizable settings for water, steam, lighting, and music. Creating Tranquil and Multi-Use Spaces New York designer Jack Ovadia created a one-person onsen tub in a client’s home, designed with terrazzo pebbles and a chandelier. His wellness rooms often combine features like saunas and cold plunge tubs. Ovadia emphasizes the importance of a private space where the outside world fades away, allowing for deep relaxation. Some wellness spaces are designed for more energetic activities. Bueno points out that music rooms are becoming more common, as music can be incredibly therapeutic. He enjoys working with clients passionate about art, yoga, music, or entertaining, creating spaces that reflect those interests. Choosing Materials and Accessories The design of a wellness room should complement its intended activity. For a calming atmosphere, materials like oak, cork, bamboo, and neutral tones are ideal. Small table lights can be set to play soothing sounds, while comfortable furniture like sectionals or oversized beanbags can add to the comfort. For more energetic spaces, lighting and vibrant decor can boost motivation. Bueno adds that engaging art can enhance the vibe. For example, neon signs in music rooms or contemporary pieces in gyms can create a dynamic atmosphere, while nature-themed artwork adds tranquility to wellness rooms. No Space? Explore Public Wellness Areas If you don’t have room for a wellness room at home, you may find similar experiences in public wellness spaces. These “social spas” combine traditional spa treatments with social activities and group hangout areas. These spaces are becoming popular in the US, with Ovadia noting that self-care is evolving into a shared, community experience.

Feeling stressed, unwell, or burnt out at work? A Swiss town is offering a unique approach to healing: art therapy through museum visits, prescribed by doctors. In Neuchâtel, Switzerland, a two-year pilot project has been launched where doctors can prescribe free visits to any of the town's four museums for patients they believe could benefit from exposure to art. Mangal Shobhajatra may get a new name: Farooki Local authorities are covering the costs of these "museum prescriptions," based on a 2019 World Health Organization report which highlighted the positive effects of the arts on mental health, trauma recovery, cognitive decline, frailty, and premature mortality. Art can serve as preventive medicine, helping to relax the mind. Additionally, museum visits encourage physical activity through walking and standing for extended periods. Julie Courcier Delafontaine, a council member in Neuchâtel, noted that the COVID-19 crisis also contributed to the program's creation. "During the lockdowns, people realized just how much we need cultural sites to feel better," she said. So far, around 500 museum prescriptions have been distributed, with a budget of 10,000 Swiss francs (around $11,300). If successful, the program could be expanded to include other forms of artistic expression, such as theatre or dance. Although the Swiss national healthcare system doesn't yet recognize culture as therapy, Courcier Delafontaine hopes the program’s success will change that. Marianne de Reynier Nevsky, the town’s cultural mediation manager, who helped create the program, mentioned a similar initiative in Montreal, Canada, in 2019. She believes it could benefit a wide range of patients, such as those suffering from depression, chronic illness, or mobility issues. The goal is also to encourage patients who are reluctant to leave their homes to get moving. Dr. Marc-Olivier Sauvain, head of surgery at Neuchâtel Hospital, has already prescribed museum visits to patients to help them prepare physically for surgery. He expects a wider rollout after a control group is established. "It's wishful thinking to tell patients to walk or stroll to improve fitness before surgery," Sauvain explained. "Museum prescriptions offer both physical and intellectual exercise." For patients, this approach is often more appealing than traditional treatments. "It's really nice to prescribe museum visits rather than medications or tests that patients don’t enjoy," Sauvain said. World Mime Day 2025 celebrated in Dhaka Some visitors to the museums, like poet and retired teacher Carla Fragniere Filliger, have expressed their support for the initiative. "I think it’s a great idea," she said during her visit. "There should be prescriptions for all the museums in the world!"

With the rising incidents of violence against young girls to aged women, learning self-defense has become essential. Dhaka hosts several martial arts training centers where girls and women can learn practical techniques of judo, karate, kung fu, etc. These disciplines are effectively aligned with real-life self-defense scenarios. Let’s take a closer look at the leading institutes that provide a supportive environment for women to learn essential safety skills. Top 10 Martial Arts Training Centers for Women in Dhaka . KO Fight Studio The Bangladesh branch of the world-renowned Karate Organization, ShinKyokushinKai, operates under the name of this institute. The training center prioritizes mastering the Japanese Kyokushin Karate style. Shihan Abdullah Mohammad Hossain, a 4th Dan black belt (4th degree black belt holder), is the organization’s executive director and head instructor. KO Fight Studio’s curriculum includes master striking, escape techniques, and de-escalation skills, all of which are crucial for real-life situations. The sessions span a minimum of 8 weeks, consisting of 16 classes, each lasting 2 hours. The admission fee is BDT 2,000, with a monthly fee of BDT 4,000. Address: Level-4, Building No. 19-20, Road-113/A, Gulshan (next to Shahabuddin Medical) Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/KOFSDhaka/ Read more: Martial Arts Belts: Everything You Need to Know About Their Color and Significance Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School This school focuses on the traditional Chinese martial arts of Wushu and Kung Fu, with an emphasis on modern adaptations such as Sanda, Taolu, and Wing Chun. The school was founded by Master Abdullah Al Monsur, a highly skilled martial artist. Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School offers training in striking, grappling, weaponry, and hybrid martial arts. Students are taught techniques from boxing, karate, Muay Thai, Kenpo, judo, Aikido, Sumo, and wrestling, alongside weapons training in Kendo, fencing, and Iaido. The courses emphasize physical strength, mental health, focus, and discipline. An online option for Kung Fu classes is also available for students participating from home. Main Branches: Bhaban-58, Road-5, Block-F, Aftabnagar, Badda. Additional branches are located in Dhanmondi, Gulshan, Banani, Bashundhara, and Uttara. Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wushubd Sobhan Karate Academy Catering to trainees aged 5 to 65, this academy boasts a membership where over 80% are women. The training features the globally recognized Shotokan Karate style. The admission fee is BDT 5,000 for all, while the monthly fee is BDT 3,000 for students and BDT 4,000 for professionals. Sobhan Karate Academy features a specialized 9-month defensive tactics course, which costs BDT 40,000, including the admission fee. The initial month’s fee is BDT 10,000 for students and BDT 11,000 for professionals. Address: Russian Cultural Center, House No. 510, Road 7, Dhanmondi Website Link: https://www.sobhankarateacademy.com/ Read more: Best Martial Arts for Women: Know the purposes, risks, requirements Martial Art BD This training institute is led by internationally certified experts, including Sensei Nazmun Sahadath. He is a 4th Dan and national karate judge affiliated with the Bangladesh Karate Federation. Martial Art BD offers programs in general karate and bodybuilding, promoting long-term health. Updated details about course schedules and fees are available on its website. Website Link: https://martialartbd.com/ Address: 15/G Jigatola, Dhanmondi, (Sundarban Courier Building). Additional branches are located in Lalmatia and Shonir Akhra. HORDE MMA & Martial Arts Academy Founded by 4th Dan Black Belt holder Sensei Kim Yanez, HORDE MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) & Martial Arts Academy specializes in combining karate with kickboxing. It incorporates the world-famous No-Gi Submission Grappling technique to overcome the opponent. Classes are offered from 9 AM to 8 PM, and course details can be obtained through their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/HordeMMA/Main Branch Address: House-34, Sonarganj Janpath, Sector-11, Uttara, (Opposite Zamzam Tower) Read more: Best Martial Arts For Fitness Martial Arts Stars Academy Established in 1992, Martial Arts Stars Academy focuses on Judo, Karate, and Jiu-Jitsu, with defensive weapons training as part of the curriculum. Head coach Shamsher Alam, a national referee, is affiliated with both the Bangladesh Judo and Karate Federations. Trainings are conducted in two batches: one starting at 6 AM and the other at 4:30 PM. Address: Bari-13, Road-14, Block-D, Section-6, Mirpur. Practice Venue: Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium, Mirpur. Visit their Facebook page for further information on course fees. Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/p/Martial-Arts-Stars-Academy-100062993752856/ Jacky Martial Art Academy The institute was initiated in 1990 by Kamal Uddin Jacky. A gold medalist from Korea and extensively trained in Japan, Jacky is now a 7th Dan Black Belt Athlete. Jacky Martial Art Academy is renowned for its black belt course lasting two years. The curriculum includes karate, kung fu, judo, taekwondo, chain stick, and long stick training. The monthly fee for the course is BDT 1,000. Additionally, a separate batch for girls is available on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 12 Noon. Address: Chandan Kotha Center, Shahid Faruk Road, Nabi Nagar, West Jatrabari, Dhaka Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/JackyMartialArtAkademy Read more: Best Free Personal Safety Android, iOS Apps for Women Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do Founded in 1999, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do is a prestigious karate school in the country. The head coach is sensei Abdul Shukkur Ali Shikder. The school has a branch in Gulistan and multiple locations across Rampura and Banasree. Training at the National Sports Council Building in Gulistan is held from 7 AM to 9 AM. On the contrary, classes at the Rampura and Banasree branches are typically conducted from afternoon to evening. More details on the curriculum, admission, and course fees are available on their official Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/bangladeshwadokaikaratedo Contact Address: 377/1, East Rampura, D.I.T Road, Rampura. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh The Korean defensive combat style Chang Moo Kwan Taekwondo is widely appreciated all over the world. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh serves as the official representative of this discipline in the country. The institute conducts training programs five days a week, from 4 PM to 7 PM (except Friday and Saturday). Comprehensive details on admission and courses are accessible through their official Facebook page. Page link: https://www.facebook.com/royaltkdbangladesh Address: House No. 77/B, 7A Dhanmondi. Read more: 7 Types of Strength Training And Their Benefits Shotokan Karate Bangladesh Originating in Japan, Shotokan is one of the world-famous styles of self-defense. It is also widely practiced in karate clubs in Bangladesh. Approved by the National Karate Federation, Shotokan Karate Bangladesh proudly carries the spirit of Shotokan. The center offers courses on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays. Morning classes are from 8 AM to 9:30 AM, and afternoon classes are held from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. Course fees and other relevant details can be found on their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/shotokankaratebangladeshAddress: 8/C, West Chowdhury Para, Dhaka. Summing Up These self-defense training institutes in Dhaka, dedicated to empowering women, present a unique approach tailored to their distinct martial arts styles. KO Fight Studio, Sobhan Karate Academy, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do, and Shotokan Karate Bangladesh emphasize traditional karate training. Chinese Kung Fu & Wushu School preserves the essence of Wushu, while Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh is dedicated to Taekwondo. Horde MMA & Martial Arts Academy blends karate with kickboxing, whereas Martial Arts Stars Academy integrates judo and karate. Jacky Martial Art Academy provides a well-rounded approach, incorporating multiple disciplines. Martial Art BD combines personal protection techniques with bodybuilding programs. Beyond physical strength, these institutes foster mental resilience, making self-security a holistic practice for women. Read more: Homemade Pepper Spray for Self-Defense: Ingredients, process, efficiency, precautions

Chances are, if you’re reading this, you got some sleep last night. But are you feeling rested? Experts say it's an important question to consider. Most of us spend a third of our lives sleeping, but you may need more or less than eight hours a night. Here’s what sleep scientists and doctors say about how much you really need — and whether your gender plays a role. Sleep quality over quantity Sleep is still a mystery, despite how critical it is for our health. “The reasons aren’t entirely clear, but it’s an essential thing that we all do,” said Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a sleep specialist at Stanford University. “Something remarkable happens when you sleep. It’s the most natural form of self-care that we have.” Most of the population gets between seven to nine hours — and that particular category has the lowest association with health problems, said Molly Atwood, a behavioral sleep medicine clinician at Johns Hopkins. Once people either dip into less than six hours of sleep or get more than nine hours on average, the risk of health problems inches up, Atwood said, but everybody is different. When you’re trying to figure out how much sleep you need, it’s important to think about the quality of it, Pelayo said: “What you really want to do is wake up feeling refreshed — that’s what it’s about.” “If somebody tells me that they sleep many hours but they wake up tired, something is wrong," Pelayo said. "You shouldn’t leave your favorite restaurant feeling hungry.” How much sleep we need changes The amount of sleep we need changes throughout our lives. Newborns need the most — somewhere between 14 to 17 hours. “Definitely when we’re babies and children, because we are growing so rapidly, we do need a lot more sleep,” Atwood said. The National Sleep Foundation recommends most adults between 26 and 64 get between seven to nine hours of sleep. People who are 65 and older can get slightly less, and young adults between ages 16 and 25 can get slightly more. Humans cycle through sleep stages roughly every 90 minutes. In the first portion of the night, Atwood said that more of the cycle is slow wave sleep, or deep sleep, which is essential to repairing and restoring the body. It’s also when “growth hormone” is released. In the latter hours of the night, more of the sleep cycle is spent in rapid-eye movement sleep, or dream sleep, which is important for learning and memory consolidation, or the process in which short-term memory gets turned into long-term memory. Kids get more “deep sleep,” with about 50% of the night in that realm, she said. That drops at adolescence, Atwood said, because our body doesn’t need the same kind of repair and restoration. Something else interesting happens around puberty: Gender-based differences in sleep start to crop up. Do women need more sleep than men? Research doesn’t show that women need more sleep — but women do get slightly more sleep on average than men, Atwood said. It starts at a young age. Though they have the same sleep needs, teenage girls seem to get less sleep than teenage boys, Pelayo said. Additionally, teenage girls tend to complain of insomnia more frequently. When women become first-time mothers, they often care for newborns throughout the night more frequently, which means less sleep, said Allison Harvey, a clinical psychologist and professor who studies sleep at UC Berkeley. Hormones may also impact women's sleep quantity and quality during pregnancy and menopause. “With menopause in particular, women can develop deterioration in their sleep with an increased number and duration of nighttime awakenings,” said Dr. Mithri Junna, a Mayo Clinic neurologist who specializes in sleep. Atwood said women may also need more sleep right before their menstrual cycle. “There are definitely times that your body’s telling you that you need more sleep,” she said. “It’s important to listen.” When to seek help sleeping You'll know if you’re not getting enough sleep if you're feeling grumpy, irritable and inattentive. Long-term, those minor symptoms can become serious problems — even deadly. “If you’re not getting enough sleep or you have untreated insomnia or sleep apnea, your risk of depression increases,” Atwood said. “Your risk of cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure, risk of heart attack and stroke increases. Your immune system is compromised. You’re at greater risk for Alzheimer’s.” If you’re getting the recommended amount of sleep every night but still waking up feeling tired, you might consider going to your primary care physician. They can rule out other health conditions that may affect your sleep, Atwood said. But if problems persist, seeking out a sleep specialist could be helpful.

If you listen to some self-proclaimed exercise experts on social media, they swear that working out on an empty stomach burns more fat. But it’s a common misconception that exercising in a fasted state improves performance or burns more calories, said Abby Langer, a dietitian in Toronto. “The research shows that in terms of gains, it doesn’t really make much of a difference,” she said. Does that mean you should load up on protein and carbs right before a workout? No, that’s not true either. Here’s a look at when — and how — you should eat, before, after or even during a workout. (And remember, experts say what you eat is more important than when you eat.) What’s the case for eating before exercising? The calories in food literally are energy, so you need them to fuel your body for a proper workout. Eating too much too soon beforehand, though, can be problematic. Exercising diverts blood from organs including the stomach to the muscles, said Langer, author of “Good Food, Bad Diet.” So exercising on a full stomach affects the digestive process, which could cause cramping or even make you feel sick. That’s particularly the case with meals high in fat, protein or fiber, which take longer to digest than carbohydrates. Langer recommends eating a high ratio of carbs beforehand and waiting two to three hours before intense exercise. Surprising health benefits of walking barefoot at home “You don’t want to eat a big steak an hour before you play hockey,” she said. If you exercise first thing in the morning or before dinner, it’s OK to have a carb-rich snack like a banana with peanut butter or yogurt with fruit beforehand. It will give you the energy to perform well, and you can fuel up afterward with a full meal. When — and what — should you eat after exercise? That steak may serve you better afterward because that’s when a higher ratio of protein is easier to digest, said Krista Austin, a physiologist in Colorado Springs. Austin said if it will be an hour or longer before you can have a full meal, it’s better to have a high-protein snack in the meantime to help curb your appetite. The reason has little to do with muscle recovery or nutrient absorption: Rather, people who are too hungry make poor dietary choices. “A lot of people get very hungry about an hour after exercise, and you don’t want to do that,” said Austin, author of “Performance Nutrition: Applying the Science of Nutrient Timing.” “You want to catch it early, or you go and overeat.” But it’s another myth that you need to grab a protein shake within minutes of finishing to build the biggest muscles, Langer said. Many exercise enthusiasts point to what’s known as an “anabolic window” of about an hour within exercising that the body is primed to repair muscle. For the average person, you have a much longer window, and nutrient timing is less important than making sure you consume some protein at every meal, Langer said. The body needs a continuous supply of amino acids like protein for muscle repair and maintenance, she said, which means about 25 to 30 grams at every meal, depending on various factors. Ramadan 2025: Five tips for mental and emotional well-being while fasting “Prioritizing that will help with goals, either muscle building, satiety, weight loss, all of that,” Langer said. How about eating during exercise? Most people who are eating enough throughout the day don’t need anything during a workout. Langer and Austin said the threshold is about an hour of intense exercise. Longer than that — say you're training for a marathon — and you can benefit from a carb-rich snack in the middle. Instead of focusing on when to eat, Austin said to focus on what and how much. She cautioned against overcomplicating the topic and recommended following the USDA’s My Plate recommendations for a balanced diet. “The biggest thing we need to teach people is that nutrition is simple,” she said. “Maybe you need to stop focusing on the concept of nutrient timing and just make sure that you’re consistently eating throughout the day and focus on health.”

In many cultures, including those in Asia, removing shoes before entering a home is a common practice, particularly in households with carpeted floors. However, few people realise that walking barefoot indoors may offer notable health advantages.  Dr Robert Conenello, a certified clinical podiatrist, explained to HuffPost that walking barefoot helps strengthen the intrinsic muscles of the feet. These muscles naturally weaken over time due to ageing and frequent shoe use, making barefoot walking an effective way to maintain foot health.  Dr Conenello strongly advocates for the practice, emphasising the connection between foot muscles and overall mobility. He noted that reduced foot strength can lead to limited movement as people grow older. “Many of the conditions I treat stem from the inability to properly engage these muscles for normal movement and metabolic efficiency,” he said.  Beyond strengthening the feet, walking without shoes also benefits the skin. Dr Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist, highlighted that it allows the skin to breathe, reducing moisture buildup and the likelihood of fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. She also pointed out that going barefoot can have a calming effect, similar to a mini reflexology session.  Remnant Cholesterol and its impact on heart health “For those without pre-existing foot or skin conditions, this practice can serve as a natural way to connect with the surroundings and encourage mindfulness,” she explained.  Despite the benefits, there are some drawbacks. Walking barefoot may expose the feet to irritants, allergens, sharp objects, or cleaning chemicals on the floor.  Individuals with chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis, may be particularly vulnerable. However, Dr Conenello recommended a simple solution—washing and thoroughly drying the feet before applying moisturiser.  Another concern is foot fatigue or joint discomfort, particularly for those who stand for long periods, such as while cooking. To minimise strain, Dr Conenello advised wearing supportive footwear when standing for extended durations. Wearing socks can also help by creating a protective barrier between the feet and the floor.  This is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.  

The holy month of Ramadan is set to begin, observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to dusk, prayers, and acts of charity. While the focus is often on the physical aspects of fasting, it is equally important to prioritise mental and emotional well-being throughout the month.  Speaking to HT Lifestyle, Nausheen Shaikh, a nutritionist and diet consultant at Alyve Health, emphasised the importance of holistic well-being during Ramadan. “While fasting primarily impacts physical health, it is essential to recognise its mental and emotional effects. Ramadan offers a unique opportunity to enhance mental well-being alongside spiritual growth,” she noted.  Here are five strategies to help maintain mental and emotional balance while fasting:  Maintain a structured routine  Having a well-organised daily schedule can help regulate your body clock and create a sense of stability. Set aside time for sleep, prayers, cooking, and relaxation. Effective time management is crucial for ensuring a smoother and more fulfilling Ramadan experience.  Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods  Proper hydration and balanced nutrition significantly impact mental health. Although fasting requires abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours, consuming sufficient water and wholesome meals during non-fasting periods is essential. Dehydration and poor nutrition can lead to fatigue and mood fluctuations.  Acknowledge challenges  Recognising potential difficulties in advance can ease stress and anxiety. List any challenges you anticipate during Ramadan, which will allow you to create a practical approach to managing them. Having a structured plan can provide reassurance and prevent overwhelming situations.  Manage stress, fear, and anxiety  Ramadan can be both spiritually rewarding and physically demanding. Monitor your mood on a scale of 1 to 10 and keep a list of activities that lift your spirits. Listening to the Quran, stretching, or making Eid cards for loved ones can help maintain a positive mindset.  Focus on what you can control  Identify stressors that are within your control and those that are not. Practising patience and self-compassion is vital, as fasting challenges both the mind and body.  This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. With inputs from Hindustan Times

Several alarming incidents have recently been reported in Dhaka, where unsuspecting pedestrians became victims of criminals using "Devil's Breath." According to eyewitness accounts, strangers approached passersby, asking for directions while holding slips of paper with addresses written on them. Moments later, victims reportedly lost awareness, willingly handing over valuables to the perpetrators without resistance. Authorities have expressed growing concern over the rising frequency of crimes involving this substance, known to swiftly incapacitate individuals, making them easy targets for robbery and theft. What is Devil’s Breath? Devil’s Breath, also known as scopolamine or burundanga, is a powerful and dangerous drug derived from the seeds of the Borrachero shrub, common in the South American country of Colombia. The drug is a tropane alkaloid with potent anticholinergic effects, often used by criminals to incapacitate victims, rendering them highly suggestible and unable to resist.  When administered in large doses, it causes amnesia, confusion, hallucinations, and loss of free will, making victims easy targets for robbery, assault, or even worse crimes. Unlike common misconceptions, Devil’s Breath is typically ingested through food or drink rather than being absorbed through the skin or inhaled. The drug blocks muscarinic receptors in the brain, disrupting cognitive functions and leading to severe disorientation. Read more: Should You Drink Hot or Cold Water? In medical settings, scopolamine is used in small doses to treat motion sickness, nausea, and gastrointestinal disorders, but when misused, it becomes a dangerous tool for criminals. Victims often wake up with no memory of the events, making it difficult to report or prosecute the crimes.  How to Stay Safe from Devil’s Breath? . Be Cautious with Strangers Criminals often pose as friendly individuals to gain your trust. They may offer assistance, ask for directions, or hand you an object laced with the substance. You should avoid accepting anything from strangers, especially in unfamiliar environments. If someone insists on handing you something, politely refuse and walk away. Never Accept Food or Drinks from Strangers One of the most common methods of administering Devil’s Breath is by spiking food or beverages. If you are in a public place such as a nightclub, or restaurant, always keep an eye on your food and drink. It is important to never accept drinks or food from strangers, and if you leave your drink unattended, discard it immediately. Read more: How to Fix Your Sleep Routine: Know the Do's and Don'ts Stay Alert in Crowded Places Busy environments such as public transport stations, markets, and tourist attractions provide an ideal setting for criminals to operate unnoticed. You need to be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant. If you feel dizzy, disoriented, or excessively drowsy, seek help immediately from a trusted individual or law enforcement officer. Use Secure Transportation Unlicensed taxis and unverified ride-sharing services pose significant risks. Many cases of Devil’s Breath-related crimes involve victims being drugged in unauthorized vehicles. So, it is highly recommended to always use official transport services, verify the driver’s identity, and avoid getting into a vehicle with strangers, especially at night. Travel in Groups There is safety in numbers. Traveling with friends or family reduces the likelihood of being targeted. If you must go out alone, inform someone of your whereabouts and estimated return time. Also, you should avoid isolated areas and stay in well-lit public spaces. Read more: How to Stay Safe from Snakes During and After Flood   Wear a Face Mask or Cover Your Nose and Mouth Since Devil’s Breath can be administered in powdered form and blown into a victim’s face, wearing a mask provides a protective barrier. If you suspect someone is trying to use this method on you, cover your nose and mouth immediately and leave the area. Trust Your Instincts If a situation feels unsafe or someone’s behavior seems suspicious, you should remove yourself from the environment immediately. It is better to avoid engaging with strangers who make you uncomfortable and do not hesitate to seek help if needed. Secure Your Home and Accommodation Criminals may use Devil’s Breath in home invasions by blowing it through windows or air vents. It is necessary to ensure that doors and windows are locked, especially at night. If staying in a hotel or Airbnb, confirm that the place has adequate security measures in place. Read more: Effective Home Remedies to Combat Bad Breath Be Mindful of Personal Items Try to avoid handling unfamiliar objects given to you by strangers. Items such as business cards, flyers, money, or papers could be laced with Devil’s Breath. If you must handle such objects, wash your hands thoroughly afterward and avoid touching your face. Avoid Public Displays of Wealth Carrying large amounts of cash, expensive jewelry, or high-end gadgets makes you a target. Criminals are more likely to use Devil’s Breath on individuals they perceive as wealthy. It would be better to opt for digital payments and keep valuables concealed in public places. Stay Informed and Educate Others Knowledge is one of the best defenses against criminal activities. Stay updated on reports of Devil’s Breath incidents in your area and share safety tips with friends, family, and colleagues. Awareness helps prevent more people from falling victim. Read more: How to Teach Students to Accept and Overcome Academic Failures Have Emergency Contacts Ready It is a must to save emergency numbers in your phone and keep a physical copy as well. In case of an emergency, you should be able to reach out to law enforcement, medical services, or a trusted friend or family member. Know the Symptoms of Exposure If you suspect you have been exposed to Devil’s Breath, recognizing the symptoms early can be life-saving. Symptoms include confusion, dizziness, hallucinations, dry mouth, blurred vision, and loss of muscle control. If you experience these effects, seek medical help immediately and inform healthcare providers of the suspected exposure. Seek Medical Attention Immediately If you or someone you know has been drugged, get medical assistance as soon as possible. Time is critical, and healthcare professionals can provide necessary treatment to minimize the effects. It is suggested to avoid going home alone, as symptoms may worsen over time. Read more: Strategies for Cooling Your Roof During Intense Summer Heat Report Suspicious Activity If you encounter suspicious individuals or situations that suggest an attempted Devil’s Breath attack, report them to the authorities. Providing information can help prevent future incidents and protect others. Final Words Staying safe from Devil’s Breath requires awareness, vigilance, and preventive measures. By being cautious with strangers, securing your belongings, and recognizing the signs of exposure, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Always trust your instincts, seek medical help if needed, and educate others about the dangers of this dangerous substance. Your safety and well-being depend on your preparedness and awareness.  Read more: Circadian Rhythm: How to Reset the Biological Master Clock

Cholesterol plays a crucial role in assessing heart health, as it is a key factor in cardiovascular medical tests. While LDL cholesterol, often termed "bad cholesterol," is widely recognized, emerging research suggests that another type—remnant cholesterol—may be a more precise indicator of heart attack and stroke risk.  What is Remnant Cholesterol? Dr Sandeep Khasa, a cardiologist at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, explains that remnant cholesterol is found in the remnants of lipoproteins left after triglycerides are extracted from very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs). Unlike LDL cholesterol, which primarily transports cholesterol to tissues, remnant cholesterol is more likely to contribute to arterial plaque buildup, making it highly atherogenic.  Why is Remnant Cholesterol Significant? Elevated levels of remnant cholesterol are strongly linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, even in individuals with normal LDL cholesterol levels. According to Dr. Khasa, this is due to the behavior of remnant lipoproteins, which are more prone to accumulating in arterial walls, triggering inflammation and plaque formation—key contributors to atherosclerosis. Unlike LDL cholesterol, these lipoproteins tend to persist longer in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of arterial damage.  Study reveals why brain inflammation in Alzheimer’s differs from regular infections How Does It Impact Heart Health? Given its strong association with cardiovascular issues, doctors are increasingly considering remnant cholesterol in heart disease risk assessments. Managing its levels may require lifestyle changes, including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and, in some cases, medication. Dr. Khasa emphasizes that incorporating remnant cholesterol into standard cholesterol tests can lead to early intervention, helping prevent heart attacks and strokes.  By recognizing the significance of remnant cholesterol, healthcare providers can take proactive measures to safeguard heart health. Source: with inputs from Hindustan Times

A new study has shed light on the differences between how the immune system responds to Alzheimer's-related inflammation compared to infections. While inflammation is a key immune response, in Alzheimer's disease, it becomes chronic and harmful rather than short-term and protective. Researchers have been working to understand why this prolonged immune reaction occurs. The findings, presented at the 69th Biophysical Society Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, highlight crucial variations in immune activity when exposed to Alzheimer’s-related proteins versus bacterial infections. How the immune system reacts The research focuses on how immune cells respond to amyloid-beta (Ab) plaques, a defining feature of Alzheimer's, and how this differs from their reaction to bacterial toxins. "Bacteria cannot directly enter the brain due to the blood-brain barrier," explained Arpan Dey, PhD, a postdoctoral associate at the University of Cambridge. "However, small proteins might be mimicking bacterial activity in the brain, triggering inflammation that contributes to dementia." Dey and his colleagues used immune cell models and exposed them to either Ab aggregates or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial toxin that strongly activates immune responses. They specifically studied the formation of myddosomes, structures that play a key role in initiating inflammation. Can sleep position affect your heart and brain health? Their results showed that larger Ab clusters prompted significant myddosome formation, whereas smaller clusters failed to do so even after prolonged exposure. This suggests that the size of Ab aggregates is a crucial factor in triggering an immune response in Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, LPS caused a much faster and more intense myddosome reaction than even the largest Ab clumps. This difference in speed and strength may explain why inflammation in Alzheimer’s is persistent and prolonged, whereas infection-related inflammation is typically brief and resolves quickly. "Our research highlights a fundamental difference in how the brain’s immune system reacts to bacterial infections versus amyloid-beta aggregates," said Dey. "The slower, sustained immune activation in Alzheimer’s may be a key factor in its chronic inflammation." The researchers now plan to investigate myddosome markers in blood samples from dementia patients and brain tissue from the UK Brain Bank. By uncovering the mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s inflammation, they hope to aid in the development of treatments targeting chronic neuroinflammation. "This study opens new possibilities for drug discovery," Dey added. "By identifying and targeting inflammatory pathways, we may develop therapies to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases." Source: with inputs from Indian Media