Latest news with #Headspace
India Today
2 hours ago
- General
- India Today
7 morning habits to energise your body and mind
Your morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Starting strong is essential whether you're gearing up for a high-pressure presentation, an exam, or just aiming to stay productive and focused. Here are 7 smart, science-backed tips to help you feel energised, centred, and ready to take on SOAKED RAISIN WATER FIRST THINGThis Ayurvedic tip has been gaining popularity for good reason. Soaked raisins are rich in natural sugars, iron, potassium, and antioxidants. When you soak them overnight and drink the water in the morning (and eat the plumped-up raisins), it helps:advertisementBoost energy levels Improve digestionSupport iron absorptionBalance natural blood sugar levelsSoak 5–7 raisins in water overnight. In the morning, drink the water on an empty stomach and eat the CHECKING YOUR PHONE FOR THE FIRST 30 MINUTESResist the urge to scroll through notifications as soon as you wake triggers stress and distracts your mind. Instead, use the first moments of your day to connect with yourself—stretch, breathe, or just sit in A QUICK STRETCH OR SUN SALUTATIONEven 5 minutes of movement helps wake up your body and kickstart blood circulation.A few yoga stretches or a round of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) helps activate your core, spine, and WITH WARM WATER + LEMON (OPTIONAL)If you didn't try raisin water, another great option is warm water with a squeeze of wakes up your digestive system, supports detox, and provides a gentle Vitamin C A BALANCED, LIGHT BREAKFASTFuel your brain with a breakfast that includes:A source of protein (like eggs, yoghurt, or peanut butter)Whole grains (like oats or multigrain toast)Some fruit (like a banana or berries)Avoid heavy, fried foods first thing—they slow you DOWN 3 PRIORITIES OR INTENTIONSA few minutes of journaling or simply jotting down your top 3 tasks or intentions can help you stay focused and motivated all day MINDFULNESS FOR 5 MINUTESMeditation, deep breathing, or even listening to calming music can help reduce anxiety and ground your mind before the day rushes in. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help guide you if you're new to don't need a two-hour wellness routine to have a strong day. A few mindful choices—like starting with soaked raisin water and giving yourself 10 calm minutes before the chaos—can make a huge small, stay consistent, and build a morning routine that gives you strength from the inside Watch
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Mindful abroad: 9 tips to stay mentally fit while studying in a new country
Studying abroad is one of the most exciting and transformative experiences a student can have. It opens doors to new cultures, friendships, and academic opportunities. However, this adventure can also bring unique mental health challenges such as homesickness, culture shock, academic pressure, and feelings of isolation. Maintaining your mental well-being while abroad is just as important as your academic success. Here are 9 practical ways to maintain your mental health while studying abroad and make the most of your experience: Establish a routine Creating a daily routine is essential for mental stability. When you have a set schedule—waking up at the same time, attending classes, scheduling study sessions, meal times, and relaxation periods—it provides structure amidst the excitement and uncertainty. A routine helps manage stress, keeps procrastination away, and makes you feel more grounded in a new environment. Explore local support services Most universities that host international students offer mental health resources such as counseling services, support groups, or workshops. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're feeling overwhelmed. Mental health professionals understand the unique struggles of studying abroad and can provide tailored advice or therapy. Early intervention can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems. Practice mindfulness and meditation Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga are proven methods to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being. These techniques help you stay present and calm when you feel stressed or homesick. You can start with simple guided meditation apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer, which offer short sessions perfect for busy student schedules. Engage in physical activity Physical exercise is a natural mood booster. Whether it's jogging in the park, joining a local sports team, practicing dance, or even walking around your new city, regular movement helps release endorphins—your brain's 'feel-good' chemicals. Exercise also improves sleep quality and energy levels, making it easier to handle daily challenges. Build a social network Making new friends and building a social circle is vital for emotional support abroad. Join student clubs, attend campus events, or participate in cultural or volunteer activities. These interactions foster a sense of belonging and help reduce feelings of isolation. Plus, sharing experiences with fellow students often leads to lifelong friendships. Eat well and sleep enough Nutrition and sleep directly impact mental health. Eating balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, and proteins gives your brain the nutrients it needs to function well. Trying local cuisine can be fun but aim to keep it healthy. Similarly, ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Good sleep hygiene—like limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent bedtime—can dramatically improve mood and cognitive function. Set realistic expectations Studying abroad can come with pressure to excel academically, socially, and culturally. It's important to remind yourself that it's okay to make mistakes or have off days. Learning to accept imperfection and giving yourself grace during setbacks reduces anxiety. Set achievable goals and celebrate small wins instead of striving for unrealistic perfection. Take time for yourself Finally, carve out 'me time' regularly. Whether it's reading a book, journaling, listening to music, or simply taking a quiet walk, personal downtime helps recharge your mental batteries. Don't overcommit to social events or academic tasks; balance is key to sustained well-being. Stay connected with family Being far from home can sometimes feel lonely, especially during tough times. Regularly connecting with family and friends via video calls, texts, or social media can provide emotional support and remind you that you're not alone. Setting a weekly video call or sharing your experiences through photos and messages helps maintain those close bonds and keeps homesickness at bay. Studying abroad can be a journey filled with growth, new perspectives, and unforgettable memories. By actively maintaining your mental health through connection, routine, self-care, and support, you can navigate the challenges and make your time abroad truly rewarding. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength—not weakness—and taking care of yourself will help you thrive academically and personally. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
West Australian
18 hours ago
- Health
- West Australian
‘Very concerning': One in three Australian men admit to intimate partner violence, horror study finds
A major new study revealing intimate partner violence is on the rise despite efforts to counter it is 'very concerning', Tanya Plibersek has said. One in three men have admitted to abusing an intimate partner either emotionally or physically, according to the latest Australian Institute of Family Studies findings. It marks an increase from one in four about a decade ago. Reacting to the AIFS report on Tuesday, the Social Services Minister said it was clear the trend was headed in the 'wrong direction'. 'It looks at a large cohort of men over a long period of time, and what the research shows is that over about a decade, between the first report and the second report, the number of men who have ever used violence has increased from one in four to one in three,' Ms Plibersek told the ABC. 'That equates to about 120,000 extra men every year in Australia using violence for the first time in intimate relationships. 'Obviously that's a trend that's going in the wrong direction. The study found emotional abuse was the most common form of intimate partner violence. Thirty-two per cent of men in 2022 reported that they had made an intimate partner feel 'frightened or anxious'. Meanwhile, 9 per cent admitted to 'hitting, slapping, kicking or otherwise physically hurting' their partner when angry. But Ms Plibersek stressed the report offered 'some really good insights into what makes it more or less likely that men will ever use violence in an intimate relationship'. 'It shows that men who have good mental health, who have good social connections and social supports, and who have a good relationship with a father or father figure when they're young, are all less likely to use violence in their relationships,' she said. According to the report, men with high levels of social support 'all of the time' were 26 per cent less likely to say they had committed intimate partner violence. It also said men with strong relationships, with an affectionate father figure as a child, were 48 per cent less likely to say they had committed intimate partner violence. In contrast, men with depressive symptoms were 62 per cent more likely to abuse a partner when compared to others without these symptoms. 'I think a lot of people in recent years have reported social isolation and loneliness as bigger features in their lives,' Ms Plibersek said. 'It shows why it's important that we invest in mental health supports and we're doing that as a government — an extra billion dollars with Medicare walk-in mental health clinics, expanding the number of Headspace clinics, reinstating telehealth psychiatry, telehealth consultations. 'All of those supports make a difference. It shows why it's important that we are investing to help women as they leave violence with the billion dollars extra for the Leaving Violence (Program), the extra housing and extra billion dollars for that.' The government-funded study has tracked more than 16,000 boys and men since 2013 and added an additional 10,000 men in 2024-25. It is the first of its kind in Australia.
Perth Now
18 hours ago
- Health
- Perth Now
‘Wrong direction': Grim trend rising in Aus
A major new study revealing intimate partner violence is on the rise despite efforts to counter it is 'very concerning', Tanya Plibersek has said. One in three men have admitted to abusing an intimate partner either emotionally or physically, according to the latest Australian Institute of Family Studies findings. It marks an increase from one in four about a decade ago. Reacting to the AIFS report on Tuesday, the Social Services Minister said it was clear the trend was headed in the 'wrong direction'. A new study has revealed one in three men have committed intimate partner violence. NewsWire / Diego Fedele Credit: News Corp Australia 'It looks at a large cohort of men over a long period of time, and what the research shows is that over about a decade, between the first report and the second report, the number of men who have ever used violence has increased from one in four to one in three,' Ms Plibersek told the ABC. 'That equates to about 120,000 extra men every year in Australia using violence for the first time in intimate relationships. 'Obviously that's a trend that's going in the wrong direction. The study found emotional abuse was the most common form of intimate partner violence. Thirty-two per cent of men in 2022 reported that they had made an intimate partner feel 'frightened or anxious'. Meanwhile, 9 per cent admitted to 'hitting, slapping, kicking or otherwise physically hurting' their partner when angry. But Ms Plibersek stressed the report offered 'some really good insights into what makes it more or less likely that men will ever use violence in an intimate relationship'. 'It shows that men who have good mental health, who have good social connections and social supports, and who have a good relationship with a father or father figure when they're young, are all less likely to use violence in their relationships,' she said. Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek says rising intimate partner violence is 'very concerning'. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp Australia According to the report, men with high levels of social support 'all of the time' were 26 per cent less likely to say they had committed intimate partner violence. It also said men with strong relationships, with an affectionate father figure as a child, were 48 per cent less likely to say they had committed intimate partner violence. In contrast, men with depressive symptoms were 62 per cent more likely to abuse a partner when compared to others without these symptoms. 'I think a lot of people in recent years have reported social isolation and loneliness as bigger features in their lives,' Ms Plibersek said. 'It shows why it's important that we invest in mental health supports and we're doing that as a government — an extra billion dollars with Medicare walk-in mental health clinics, expanding the number of Headspace clinics, reinstating telehealth psychiatry, telehealth consultations. 'All of those supports make a difference. It shows why it's important that we are investing to help women as they leave violence with the billion dollars extra for the Leaving Violence (Program), the extra housing and extra billion dollars for that.' The government-funded study has tracked more than 16,000 boys and men since 2013 and added an additional 10,000 men in 2024-25. It is the first of its kind in Australia.
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
17 Things Moms Do That Dads Just Don't
Motherhood and fatherhood are not the same gig. Sure, both roles are vital, but the invisible labor, the unspoken expectations, and the emotional bandwidth that moms hold? It's a different universe. Moms are the ones who remember, who anticipate, who hold the tiny details of life together like glue—while dads, well, they get the credit for 'babysitting' their own kids. It's not about blaming—it's about naming. And it's time we got real about the things moms do that dads just… don't. Moms are the architects of holiday rituals, birthday routines, and those quirky 'just us' moments that kids carry into adulthood. They make the hot chocolate on snow days, plan the annual pumpkin patch trip, and sneak love notes into lunchboxes. It's the little things that make childhood feel magical—and moms are the ones making sure they happen as this article in Good Therapy notes. These traditions don't just appear—they're built by someone who cares enough to think, plan, and show up. Moms make memories while the rest of the family just gets to enjoy them. Moms are often the ones holding space for tears, tantrums, and existential 3 a.m. fears. They're the ones who say, 'It's okay to feel that way' and show kids how to name and process their feelings. It's quiet emotional coaching that shapes how kids learn to navigate the world. Dads might step in with 'Toughen up,' but moms are often the ones who sit in the hard feelings with their kids. They model what empathy looks like—and that's a lesson that lasts a lifetime. Moms are the ones emailing teachers, fighting insurance companies, and pushing for answers when a doctor brushes off a concern. They show up at the parent-teacher conference prepared, advocating like it's their job—because it is as HuffPost explains. No one fights for kids like a mom who knows her child deserves better. It's not about being 'that mom'—it's about not letting the system swallow their kids whole. Moms stand up when others stay quiet. And they don't take no for an answer when it comes to their child's well-being. Moms are the keepers of the family's memory bank. They know when the first tooth fell out, what song their toddler was obsessed with, and why their teenager still hates green beans. They hold the stories that make a family feel like a family. Dads might remember the 'big stuff,' but moms remember it all. They're the living archive of the moments that matter—big, small, and everything in between. Moms are the ones reminding kids to say 'please' and 'thank you,' to hold the door open, to ask how someone's day was. They model kindness not by lecturing, but by doing—dropping off meals for sick neighbors, writing thank-you notes, showing up when it matters. They don't just tell their kids how to care—they show them—because they understand the importance of manners as Headspace explains. These small, daily lessons add up to something bigger: raising humans who know how to exist in a world with grace. It's a quiet kind of leadership that often gets overlooked—but it's the foundation of empathy, respect, and compassion. Moms don't just know their own kids—they know all the kids. They remember who's allergic to peanuts, who gets nervous at sleepovers, who's been struggling in math class, and who's obsessed with dinosaurs. They hold this mental database like a quiet superpower, making sure every child feels seen and cared for. Dads might nod politely at the neighbor's kid, but moms remember the details. They ask the right questions, pack the extra snack, and check in when it matters. It's an emotional radar that keeps the whole ecosystem running smoothly. Moms are experts at reading the room—before the room even knows it needs reading. They can see the signs of an overtired tantrum brewing or a hangry breakdown coming from a mile away. This intuition isn't magic; it's the product of constant attunement. Dads? They'll notice when it's already happening. Moms intervene before the tears start—because they know prevention is half the battle. Moms are human calendars, keeping track of pediatrician visits, school picture days, and Great Aunt Susan's birthday next Thursday. As highlighted by The New York Times, moms still do the majority of the scheduling, even in so-called 'equal' households. It's a mental load that never fully shuts off. Dads might set a reminder here and there, but moms live in the details. They don't just remember the date—they remember the dentist's name, the teacher's email, and who's allergic to peanuts. Moms are the quiet orchestrators of childhood magic. They slip in dollar bills under pillows and make it look like fairies have been there—because they know the power of small wonders. They read fairytales and they keep the Santa Dream alive as long as they can. Moms don't just keep the logistics running—they keep the magic alive. It's an emotional labor that dads rarely even realize is happening. Moms don't just slap a sandwich together—they think about nutrition, allergies, who likes what, and whether it'll get eaten or traded for Oreos. Moms are more likely to handle daily food prep and planning, even when both parents work. It's not just about feeding—it's about nurturing. Dads? They'll pack what's quick. Moms pack what's thoughtful—and worry about whether the carrots will come home uneaten. Whether it's going back to work, staying home, letting the baby cry, or giving in to screen time, moms carry the guilt. Every choice feels like a referendum on their worth. It's an exhausting double bind that dads just don't carry in the same way. Moms are expected to be all things: nurturing, career-driven, selfless, put-together. And if they fall short, they're the first to internalize the blame. Moms don't just hand out blankets—they remember who likes a cold room, who needs the nightlight, and which stuffed animal has to be in bed. They adjust the fan, tuck in the edges, and anticipate the 'Mom, I'm too hot!' complaints before they happen. It's a sixth sense built from years of noticing. Dads might ask, 'Are you good?'—but moms know what their kids need before they even say it. Moms are often the barometers of the household—adjusting energy, soothing tensions, and preemptively diffusing drama. They know when a sibling fight is about to explode or when a partner needs a minute to breathe. It's invisible work that keeps the family running. Dads might step in when it's obvious, but moms read the subtext. They see what's brewing and adjust accordingly—before it even turns into a storm. Moms lie awake thinking about the weird mole on their kid's back, the school shooter drills, the car seat that might be too loose. They run endless mental simulations of worst-case scenarios—because someone has to. It's not neuroticism; it's survival. Dads? They sleep. Moms? They catastrophize in the dark and still get up with the kids at 6. Moms notice the little signs: the glassy eyes, the whiny voice, the 'I'm not hungry' before the fever even hits. They preemptively cancel plans, stock up on medicine, and clear the calendar—because they know. It's an intuition dads rarely tap into as quickly. It's not psychic—it's vigilance. And it's why moms are often the first line of defense when a stomach bug takes down the whole house. Moms are the glue that keeps extended family ties intact. They're the ones who remember to call Grandma, text the cousins, and keep everyone in the loop. Without them, family group chats would die, and birthdays would pass unnoticed. Dads might say 'We should reach out more,' but moms do it. They're the connectors—quietly holding it all together. Moms aren't just managing tasks—they're managing everything. The mental load is the list that never ends: school forms, dentist appointments, new shoes, growth spurts, emotional crises. It's the background noise in their heads 24/7. Dads might say, 'You should've asked'—but the problem is, moms already do. They're asking themselves, planning, and executing before anyone even notices. And that's the quiet labor that rarely gets the credit it deserves.
