Latest news with #GulfWeekly
Gulf Weekly
3 days ago
- General
- Gulf Weekly
Stepping into the real world
Screens have dulled our ability to truly feel and connect, writes GulfWeekly's columnist Preety Praveen as she explores this month's Speak Your Mind topic 'how overexposure to gadgets especially social media affects mental health'. There was a time when real friendships, quality time with family, and taking breaks from work were considered the most valuable aspects of life. Today, these meaningful moments are often overshadowed by phones, laptops and other gadgets. Charging a phone seems more urgent than talking to the person next to us. We are more concerned with checking the online status of someone we barely know than asking a loved one how they're doing. Somehow, knowing a celebrity's daily schedule feels more satisfying than planning our own goals or spending time with those who truly matter. How did this virtual world take over our reality? Or are we the ones who gave it permission to invade our lives? What should matter more, chasing 'likes' on social media or sharing a hot cup of coffee with someone who genuinely cares about us? The truth is, this digital shift hasn't just changed our routines, it has reshaped our emotions. The depth in our bonds, the grief of losing a friend, the sorrow of a breakup, or the pain of parting with a loved one has lost its emotional impact. Screens have dulled our ability to truly feel and connect. Those late-night heart-to-heart conversations have now been replaced by scrolling through reels or gaming on our phones. Our excessive workloads have chained us to laptops, denying us moments of physical warmth and connection. And yet, without guilt or awareness, we've comfortably adapted to this digital lifestyle — we even seem happy about it. But we must pause and reflect: our real world should be built around real people and relationships. In moments of crisis, it's our loved ones who will stand beside us, not our phones or social media apps. A warm hug, a reassuring touch, a caring glance, or a few kind words will always offer more support than any screen ever could. We must remember gadgets and apps were created to serve us, not the other way around. Let's ensure they remain tools we control, not forces that control us. Make time not just for yourself, but for your family and friends too. Be present in the real world. Cherish the laughter, warmth and comfort that come from genuine human connection. After all, we are human and with that comes a social responsibility to care for each other with compassion, attention and love.
Gulf Weekly
3 days ago
- Health
- Gulf Weekly
Switch off!
So many of you have come forward and accepted GulfWeekly's digital detox challenge. As mental health awareness month comes to an end in May, we are thrilled to share some more experiences of people going offline for 24 hours – no gadgets, no social media – successfully culminating our campaign. My initial reluctance to sign up to a day without digital was a signal that it was exactly what I needed. At first, I felt uneasy about not responding to messages or wondering if I was missing something important. Several times during the morning, I turned to my phone, out of habit, rather than necessity. Having the space, the pause, I noticed a shift away from this automated, mindless, compulsivity. I savoured the small moments, like the taste and smell of my crispy peanut butter breakfast toast, which I ate slowly and mindfully. Giving myself permission to not be available 24/7 has reminded me that it's OK to give myself space to connect with myself. I've rested, got my stuff done. I've remembered to breathe. I plan to make this a regular ritual: one full day a month where I unplug and return to myself. And the world can wait. – Beth Noble, 52, Psychotherapist At first, I kept checking my pockets for a phone that wasn't there. But the silence grew comforting. I spent the day journaling, playing board games with my family, and finally organising my space — something I had been procrastinating. Without the pressure to check messages or scroll, I noticed I was more patient and relaxed. The detox reminded me that my time is valuable and doesn't always need to be spent online. It was a much-needed reset and I plan to do it more often. - Bhavna Malkani, 31, Accountant Breakfast, the sand, breeze, and coffee that I can drink without rushing – these are some things that went 'online' when I went offline – refraining from social media for a week made me live more! I had a calling to grow in spirit and could see beyond my daily life. Everything came alive when I started to bother less about my phone dying. I was able to find real connections without the Internet and admire real scenes without 'filters'. It is only when we participate in real life that we will know the true essence of it is beyond our screens. - Jeah Valerio, 28, Artist Going phone-free for 24 hours was harder than I expected. The FOMO ('fear of missing out') hit me early in the day, but it gradually turned into a sense of peace. I ended up sketching – a hobby I hadn't touched in years – and even cooked a new recipe from scratch. Without digital noise, my thoughts felt clearer and my anxiety reduced. It also gave me more time to talk with my sibling, which we rarely do. This detox showed me that small breaks from the digital world can have a big impact on mental clarity and connection. – Riash, 35, Sales officer Spending 24 hours without social media or my phone was eye-opening but also a challenge. I felt more focused during patient consultations and truly listened, without distractions. The day felt calmer and more present, allowing me to have a face-to-face discussions with my colleagues which otherwise has become very rare. I did sleep better that night. However, I also felt a bit disconnected from the outside world and curious about updates. Overall, the experience reminded me of the importance of being present and how digital detox can enhance my work and well-being.
Gulf Weekly
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Bahrain in a new dimension
Bahrain-based shutterbug George Raphel has unveiled his first 3D photography exhibition, featuring 20 stunning pieces that pay homage to the kingdom. The showcase – Anaglyph Photography Exhibition: A Stereoscopic Journey into Bahrain's Soul – is currently open for viewing and is a tribute to what the 44-year-old has called home for the last 16 years. 'Through this exhibition I am trying to translate my feelings for this country,' the professional photographer told GulfWeekly. 'This my first 3D exhibition, and I believe it is the first time anyone has captured Bahrain in 3D. These images were taken between 2023 and 2025,' he added. 'Anaglyph is a stereoscopic technique that involves capturing two photographs using a specialised camera rig and then digitally superimposing them to create the final image. To view this image, special 3D glasses are required.' Some of the iconic monuments and heritage brought alive in the exhibition include the Bahrain Fort, the Khamis Mosque and the kingdom's maritime tradition. 'The black-and-white image of a dhow is my favourite, as it may evoke memories of my hometown in Kochi, Kerala, where there is also a boatyard near my house,' said the Juffair resident, who lives with his wife Hima Joy, Brainobrain Bahrain director, and daughter Olive, a grade six student of Bahrain Indian School. George fell in love with photography during his high school years. He decided to pursue a degree in the field, which catapulted his career. 'I pursued a degree in photography at Shari Academy in Mumbai. Following my graduation in 2005, I joined one of the leading publications in Dubai. 'In 2009, I was transferred to Bahrain, where I established my media production company in 2014. Our company specialises in commercial and corporate photography and videography services,' he added. Not one to rest on his laurels, George is currently engaged in the development of another series and aspires to exhibit it by the end of this year. The showcase runs at Downtown Rotana in Manama until August-end. Entry is free and visitors will be provided 3D glasses at the venue.
Gulf Weekly
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Making an impact
melissa@ Bahrain is set to stage the first edition of the International Influencers Awards tonight, May 29, where digital innovators and content creators from across the Gulf will be honoured in a dazzling ceremony, writes Melissa Nazareth. The gala event is being presented by TIAH, a globally recognised soft-skills training institute in Seef District, and will witness 28 finalists across 14 categories compete for titles spanning beauty, wellness, education, comedy, arts and more. Two nominees have been shortlisted for each of the segments in the awards, which are audited by an independent audit firm. The evening will also feature other entertainment, food, and drink, offering guests a lovely time. In addition to recognising influencers and the work they do, the awards also seek to promote Bahrain as a major destination for tourism and business. 'We're thrilled to be staging an event of this type and scale for the first time in Bahrain and absolutely see this becoming an annual event,' TIAH founder Priyanka Jassal told GulfWeekly. 'We want to showcase Bahrain's ongoing efforts in digital transformation and our commitment to aligning with the national development goals. 'This year, we're also placing a special focus on humanitarian impact. As part of the evening, we will be honouring Bahraini digital voices who are making a real difference in society and using their platforms to inspire positive change. 'We've really focused on being inclusive – our finalists, shortlisted from more than 200 applications, feature creative talents from 15 different nationalities, including Bahraini, Egyptian, Argentine, Italian, Swedish, Kazakhstani, Pakistani, Indian, American, German, and more,' the 37-year-old added. The Indian expatriate has extensive hospitality experience specialising in the airline industry. After moving to Bahrain with her husband six years ago, she was keen to pursue her passion, which led her to open her own institute. 'I started my career as a cabin crew and since then have nurtured the dream of establishing my own training institute in hospitality. TIAH was born of this passion,' the award-winning entrepreneur, who has travelled to more than 60 countries, noted. According to Priyanka, the global exposure she received deeply influenced her perspective and inspired her to help others grow personally and professionally. 'I realised that personality development isn't just about image—it's about self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to connect with others meaningfully,' added the recipient of Asia's Top 100 Influential Women Awards' Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2021. Priyanka hopes to continue engaging with inspiring people in Bahrain and beyond. She also has plans to help individuals from underprivileged groups develop their confidence and expand TIAH's existing programmes to include skills like emotional intelligence and digital communication. The International Influencers Awards will be hosted at the Ramee Grand Hotel in Seef. Doors open at 7pm and tickets are available on Platinumlist.
Gulf Weekly
22-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Weekly
Freedom from gadgets
1. For someone who has spent most of her life working in the media, the constant news barrage took its toll on my health. So, many years ago, I decided to spend one precious day a week without using my mobile, a digital detox for my sanity. I deliberately shut out the world, silencing notifications from my mobile and embracing the quiet. Twenty-five years of this practice has given me immense joy, peace and stability. People always tell me that I look happy and younger than my age! Going offline has also taught me patience and endurance, making me a better person, ready for any challenges that life has to offer. I continue to 'detox' to this day, especially during weekends. The irony of it - I am happiest whenever I am not touching my mobile. Prioritising my mental health above all is the best decision I've ever made in my life. - Nanju Francisco, 59, Filipino media specialist 2. Living a day without the phone? Unthinkable, right? Trust me, it is both liberating and refreshing. Ironically, I attempted this a few weeks ago and felt refreshed albeit just for a day but it was worth it. Jumped out of bed, resisted the urge to 'Wordle', instead dived into the newspaper with my cuppa. The GDN it was! Then hopped on my bicycle for a long ride into oblivion; soaked in nature, listened to the many tunes of happy birds and got doused with a spray of water from a garden sprinkler, gone wild. Liberating! Withdrawal symptoms sans phone? Sure! Not checking it constantly for updates on social media made me calmer and Zen-like as I immersed myself in other hobbies. As the day progressed, I got restive and called friends I had not seen in a while on my landline. Sadly, a gadget meant to connect us is losing its flavour as it slowly disconnects us from the real world and real people. No thanks to social media, the 'digital drug' that's getting us hooked. I plan to make phone-free days a habit rather than a one-off challenge. – Sheela Pai, 63, retired Indian banker 3. The digital detox challenge is something I do regularly. I often take time away from gadgets. Even on a daily basis, I have set a time limit after which phone usage is only to attend to important calls. Instead of spending hours scrolling , I love to read and write. For news updates, I prefer to listen to the radio or read the newspaper. Going for regular evening walks with my son Parth is a must, which gives us time to connect with nature, observing the sunset and sunrise, listening to chirping birds from dawn to dusk - it uplifts me. And, I never carry the phone. Meditating on a regular basis also helps me distract myself from screens. I am happy, calm and relaxed when I step away from my device. I have observed that I don't crave screentime and continue to pursue my hobbies and have meaningful interactions with loved ones. – Parul Sharma, 40, Indian homemaker and part-time teacher 4. GDN and GulfWeekly reporter Nader Adnan also accepted the challenge! Here's what he had to say. Going into this challenge. I avoided all screen time, except occasionally checking my phone for urgent or work-related messages. I avoided social media in its entirety, and learned very quickly that I did not miss it. It was refreshing going through the day without negativity or doom scrolling. Instead, I went through my camera – photography is one of my hobbies – and discovered a couple of new settings and features I've never seen before! I like going for walks and usually do so with headphones. No screen time however meant no music, and it felt weird walking around the neighbourhood without songs in my ears. I ended up actually observing my surroundings more mindfully. I realised that other than a couple of instances here and there, I did not really miss my phone that much, although it did feel weird paying for something in cash instead of BenefitPay!
