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Indian Express
05-08-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
All about the dating app swipe culture habit driven by self-obsession, not connection
Dating apps were designed to help people find love, companionship, or a meaningful connection. But not everyone using them is actually looking to date. A new pattern of behaviour has emerged online — one that involves constantly swiping and matching, but rarely engaging. The motive? Not connection, but validation. This pattern now has a name: ego scrolling. Katie Dissanayake, CEO and founder of the dating app After, describes it as 'the act of swiping through dating apps in search of easy validation rather than genuine connections or relationships.' 'You're not even looking for a date — or often even a real conversation — you're just seeking proof that you're still desirable,' she told USA Today. While that may sound harmless, this kind of behaviour can lead to confusion, rejection, and even emotional harm for people who are genuinely seeking connection. Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'Ego scrolling is a pattern where individuals swipe or browse through dating profiles not with the intention of connection, but more for a sense of validation, distraction, or even entertainment. One way to recognise this behaviour is by observing your mindset while using dating apps. Are you swiping out of boredom, stress, or a need to feel attractive, rather than curiosity about the other person?' To shift toward more intentional dating, she says, it's helpful to pause and reflect on what you're really looking for, whether it's companionship, meaningful conversation, or a long-term relationship. 'Setting small boundaries like limiting swiping time, reading profiles more mindfully, and engaging in thoughtful conversations can help ground the experience.' For individuals earnestly seeking connection, repeated disinterest or ghosting can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and emotional fatigue. 'Over time, this can contribute to a cycle of low self-esteem where users question their worth or start to internalise rejection as a reflection of their value,' observes Cadabam. The unpredictable nature of dating apps, where interactions often feel disposable, can trigger emotional burnout, especially for those sensitive to social cues. It's essential for users to remember that the digital space often does not accurately reflect their relational potential. 'Grounding oneself in real-life social connections and seeking emotional support, whether through friends or therapy, can help buffer these effects and restore a sense of self-worth,' states the expert. Cadabam mentions, 'Individuals with avoidant attachment styles often experience discomfort with emotional closeness and may find ego scrolling a low-risk way to feel desired without the vulnerability of real connection. The controlled environment of swiping, where they can engage or disengage at will, offers a sense of emotional safety.' She adds that breaking this pattern starts with gentle self-exploration. 'Becoming curious about what intimacy means to them and acknowledging fears around closeness is a good first step. Psychotherapy can be beneficial here, as it creates a safe space to unpack these patterns.'
Indian Express
18-07-2025
- General
- Indian Express
What it means to be a ‘yellow person' and why this emotionally intelligent archetype resonates with Gen Z and Millennials
If colours had personalities, yellow would be the golden retriever of the lot — warm, cheerful, and always bringing a little more light into the room. Symbolising joy, hope, playfulness and optimism, yellow is often associated with sunshine — and when someone embodies all of those feel-good vibes, they're lovingly referred to as a 'yellow person'. The term has found a special place in internet culture, especially among Gen Z and Millennials, who use it to describe someone who radiates positivity and makes you feel safe, seen, and soothed. Think of that one person who makes you believe everything will be okay, who laughs easily, listens without judgement, and whose energy can brighten even the cloudiest day — that's your 'yellow person'. Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'When it comes to emotional intelligence, a 'yellow person' is often seen as someone who radiates warmth, optimism, and emotional presence. They tend to uplift others, intuitively sense emotional undercurrents in a room, and often step in to comfort or encourage. Their emotional intelligence is expressed through empathy, active listening, and an almost instinctive ability to make others feel seen and supported.' In relationships, she says, this person often becomes the emotional anchor, someone others turn to during difficult times. While not a clinical term, the phrase 'yellow person' captures the idea of emotional lightness and resilience, coupled with a strong sense of emotional availability. A post shared by Food 🍕 Travel 🧳 Lifestyle 🎭 (@ In today's day and age, where everything is defined by overstimulation, uncertainty, and emotional intensity, especially online, the idea of a 'yellow person' offers a comforting contrast, says Cadabam. 'Gen Z and Millennials, who are deeply immersed in digital spaces and exposed to global anxieties in real-time, often seek authentic connections and emotional safety.' The 'yellow person' archetype represents emotional consistency and hope, she notes, a person who remains steady, kind, and emotionally generous in a world that often feels chaotic. 'It aligns with the generational value of emotional transparency, where kindness and vulnerability are no longer seen as weaknesses but as strengths. It's a concept that feels both comforting and aspirational in today's context.' Yes, absolutely. The emotional labour that often accompanies being the 'go-to' person for others can sometimes be invisible, yet very real. Constantly being the emotional caretaker can lead to compassion fatigue or even quiet burnout, especially if their own needs are routinely sidelined. It's essential for 'yellow people' to remind themselves that their value isn't solely defined by how much they give. 'Protecting their emotional energy involves setting healthy boundaries, saying 'no' when needed, and allowing space for their vulnerability. Regular self-check-ins, therapy or journaling, and surrounding themselves with people who reciprocate emotional support can help sustain their well-being,' explains the expert.
Indian Express
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘This is what it's like to be a woman in the music industry': Meghan Trainor opens up about weight loss drug use and her health journey
Singer Meghan Trainor recently opened up about her weight loss journey, addressing both the lifestyle changes she made and the public scrutiny surrounding her transformation. In an Instagram post, she expressed frustration over the focus on her body rather than her decade-long career, writing, 'Feeling so honoured to be recognised by @billboard Women in Music as a Hitmaker — what a dream! But it's a little disheartening that so many of the questions (and comments) were focused on my body instead of my music, my passion, or the decade of hard work that got me here. This is what it's like to be a woman in the music industry (sic).' Meghan also emphasised that her transformation wasn't just about appearance but about becoming healthier for herself and her children. She shared, 'No, I don't look like I did 10 years ago. I've been on a journey to be the healthiest, strongest version of myself for my kids and for me. I've worked with a dietician, made huge lifestyle changes, started exercising with a trainer, and yes, I used science and support (shoutout to Mounjaro!) to help me after my 2nd pregnancy. And I'm so glad I did because I feel great.' Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'Societal expectations have long placed a disproportionate emphasis on women's physical appearance, often making it a central part of how they are perceived and valued.' A post shared by Meghan Trainor (@meghantrainor) This constant scrutiny can shape self-perception in profound ways, she adds. 'Over time, this can contribute to anxiety, diminished self-worth, and even reluctance to take up space in professional or public settings. Shifting the narrative to celebrate achievements, resilience, and personal growth — rather than just physical transformation—can help create a more balanced and empowering self-image,' notes the psychologist. One effective way to shift the focus is to redefine personal success in terms of how one feels rather than how one looks. 'Instead of seeing weight or physical appearance as the primary measure of progress, individuals can pay attention to energy levels, strength, mental clarity, and overall well-being,' notes Cadabam. It is also helpful to reframe health as a long-term commitment rather than a short-term transformation. This means prioritising sustainable habits like balanced nutrition, movement that feels good rather than punishing, and self-care that includes mental and emotional well-being. Working with professionals, as Meghan Trainor did, can also provide structured support to develop a holistic approach to health that is rooted in self-compassion rather than external validation. Cadabam informs that the expectation to maintain a youthful, pre-pregnancy body 'can create immense psychological stress.' 'This pressure can lead to body dissatisfaction, self-comparison, and even disordered eating behaviors in an attempt to meet unrealistic beauty standards. The emotional toll is compounded by social media, where highly curated images often reinforce the idea that a woman's worth is tied to her appearance rather than her well-being or life accomplishments,' stresses Cadabam. A more supportive approach is to encourage body acceptance and self-kindness. Recognising that bodies evolve and that each stage of life brings unique strengths can help women move away from unattainable ideals.
Indian Express
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘I remember my paternal grandmother crying loudly': Ratna Pathak Shah on how sister Supriya's birth exposed deep-rooted bias within her family; how it shapes a child
Ratna Pathak Shah recently opened up about her early experiences with gender bias within her own family — offering a powerful reminder that patriarchy often takes root not in policy or public life first, but within the walls of our own homes. Speaking at a FICCI Flo event in Hyderabad, the actor reflected on how these biases shaped her childhood and parenting, despite being raised in an otherwise progressive environment. 'Having two sons of my own was a very entertaining and unusual experience, one that I wasn't quite prepared for,' she said. 'I remember feeling very resentful about the special privileges that boys were supposed to get. I remember my paternal grandmother crying loudly when my sister (Supriya) was born. 'Haye haye doosri beti aagayi (Oh no, another girl).' And I remember feeling terrible about that.' She recalled how her father responded with defiance, distributing sweets traditionally meant for the birth of a boy, even though a girl had been born. 'It was like an affirmation of acceptance,' she said, adding, 'Why should a girl's existence be so unwelcome? I realised that it starts in the families.' Neha Cadabam, Senior Psychologist and Executive Director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'Early childhood is a formative stage when children absorb emotional cues from the environment, especially trusted adults. When a child witnesses or hears expressions of disappointment tied to gender, it can leave a lasting imprint on their sense of self-worth and identity. Even if those messages aren't directed at them personally, they shape how the child understands their value in the world.' A post shared by Ratna Pathak Shah (@ratnapathakshah) Such moments can also influence how children perceive gender roles and expectations, she adds. Girls may internalise a sense of lesser value, while boys may unconsciously absorb a sense of privilege. These early messages don't always come through in words — they are often felt in tone, behaviour, or reactions, and they become part of the emotional language the child grows up with. Symbolic gestures, especially when challenging prevailing norms, can be incredibly powerful within family systems. In many families, these moments stand out because they contrast with what is expected, and over time, they begin to reshape the narrative. 'Such gestures may seem small on the surface, but they spark conversations, shift perspectives, and encourage others in the family to reflect. They also show children that there are choices available—traditions can be questioned, and values can evolve. When done consistently, these acts create a more inclusive and respectful emotional environment,' notes Cadabam. Cadabam informs that patriarchy is 'deeply embedded in cultural memory,' often passed down quietly through generational practices rather than active intent. 'Even in educated households, certain gendered expectations — like who carries forward the family name or who deserves more freedom — can continue under the surface of modernity.' Unlearning this conditioning requires more than awareness — it needs conscious, ongoing reflection. Introducing equitable practices, encouraging boys and girls to express a full range of emotions, and revisiting traditional roles together can slowly begin to shift old conditioning, the expert stresses.
Indian Express
11-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
I am a neurologist, these are my ‘top 10 lifestyle and dietary tips to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote healthy longevity'
Living longer isn't just about adding years to your life; it's about adding life to those years. According to Dr Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based neurologist, adopting key lifestyle habits can significantly reduce your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and dementia, while also boosting energy, focus, and well-being as you age. In a recent post on X, Dr Kumar shared his 'Top 10 Lifestyle Habits & Dietary Preferences that Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases and Promote Healthy Longevity.' These include eating a whole-food diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and lean meat; exercising regularly (at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week plus muscle strengthening); and sleeping 7-9 hours a night. He also recommends avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and waist circumference, managing stress through mindfulness or time in nature, and cutting back on excess salt and added sugar. Dr Kumar highlights the importance of regular health screenings for early detection of conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. He also stresses the value of strong social ties, as powerful as quitting smoking in reducing mortality risk, and encourages daily sunlight exposure and adequate vitamin D. A bonus tip: Keep your brain active with reading, puzzles or learning new skills to lower dementia risk. Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells 'While all ten habits are valuable for overall health, maintaining meaningful social connections stands out as one of the most powerful factors in delaying cognitive decline. From a psychological perspective, regular social engagement keeps the brain active, encourages emotional expression, and provides a buffer against chronic stress.' Top 10 Lifestyle Habits & Dietary Preferences that Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases and Promote Healthy Longevity 1. Healthy Diet ▶️ Include: vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean meat. ▶️ Minimize: ultra-processed foods, red/processed meats, sugary… — Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (@hyderabaddoctor) July 1, 2025 When individuals engage in conversation, solve problems together, or even share emotional experiences, multiple areas of the brain are activated. 'This kind of mental stimulation is essential for preserving memory, attention, and executive function over time. Social connection also reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, both of which are linked to faster cognitive deterioration,' notes Cadabam. For urban professionals, Cadabam notes, the key is to integrate these habits into existing routines rather than viewing them as additional tasks. Physical activity, for example, does not always require gym time. Walking during calls, taking the stairs, or engaging in short guided home workouts can be just as effective when done consistently. Meal planning becomes more manageable with small steps, such as prepping ingredients in advance, using simple recipes, or batch-cooking for a few days. Cadabam states, 'As for sleep, creating a regular wind-down routine is essential. Setting a consistent bedtime and limiting screen time before bed can help signal to the brain that it's time to wind down. Importantly, adults must permit themselves to rest. In high-performance urban cultures, rest is often undervalued, but protecting sleep time is an investment in long-term mental clarity.' Dr Kumar mentions that loneliness is linked to mortality risk, similar to smoking or obesity. According to Cadabam, loneliness is not just an emotional experience; it activates physiological stress responses in the body, which trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, elevated stress hormones can contribute to inflammation, weakened immune function, poor heart health, and disrupted sleep patterns. In addition, individuals who feel isolated are less likely to engage in health-promoting behaviours such as regular exercise, balanced eating, or routine medical check-ups. Meaningful relationships offer emotional support, help regulate stress, and give a sense of belonging and purpose — all of which are essential for a long and healthy life. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
