Latest news with #Lena
The Star
15 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
Healing with herbs, connecting with people
SOME 15 years ago, news of a family member being diagnosed with cancer broke the spirit of loved ones. It spurred the patient's sister, Lena Gitom, to dive into the unfamiliar world of homemade remedies, herbs and alternative formulas in hopes of boosting immune systems and fighting malignant cells. Later, Lena developed a painful foot condition called plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the fibrous tissue (plantar fascia) along the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. The pain worsened whenever she put pressure on her feet. Struggling with insomnia on top of her condition, Lena found herself delving deeper into the subject of alternative healing, hoping to ease her symptoms and, eventually, find recovery. Along this journey, the mother of two met new friends and reconnected with long-forgotten relatives, forging bonds with people from near and far, regardless of race or religion. Reflecting on her journey, she shared how scientific and medical documents – books, articles and online resources – opened her eyes to a world she never expected to explore. Lena with a Bruneian customer, purchasing her home made tea. 'I searched for information on how to boost immune systems, fight cancer and so on, and found that common herbs or plants – turmeric, lemongrass and ginger, among other things – somehow helped many,' Lena said. She said others also shared their experiences with various herbs and plants for different conditions such as gout, cholesterol and diabetes. 'I found that turmeric and lemongrass actually help, at least for the hundreds of customers I've made along this journey,' she said. Initially, Lena's remedies were made only for close friends and family. But during the pandemic, she began preparing larger batches, though still only for those within her circle. It wasn't until around 2023, when more people heard about and experienced the benefits of her products, that she felt confident enough to start selling them. Stressing that these are not medicines but alternative remedies meant to boost immune systems, relieve joint pains and provide antioxidant benefits, Lena said consistency and moderation were key. 'These are natural concoctions – they aren't magic cures. But taken regularly, they can help some people feel better,' she said. Through this journey, Lena not only gained customers but also formed lasting friendships. 'To me, this isn't just about business. 'It's a platform that brings people together,' she said. She believes that when people share a common need, it breaks down barriers and brings comfort – becoming, in its own small way, a unifying force in a country that thrives on cultural and religious diversity. Even in the most difficult circumstances, Lena said she found rays of sunshine to help her through the darkest days. 'I must say, unconventional as it may sound, illness – and the path to find cure and comfort – does bring people together,' she added. When not busy preparing her homemade health remedies, Lena shares her story at events for producers of home-based products, highlighting healthy alternatives. 'One of the biggest events I attended was the Women International Health and Wellness Conference and Expo 2024,' she said. Her work also indirectly supports local small-scale farmers, especially women and single mothers from rural and interior parts of Sabah, by helping boost demand for their spices and herbs.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Malayalam actress once-secret husband is astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's Gaganyaan crewmate. Why they kept their marriage hidden for months. Who is Prasanth Nair?
In a rare moment where cinema met space, Malayalam actor Lena has tugged at the internet's heartstrings with an emotional Instagram post. The video shows her husband, Indian Air Force pilot and astronaut Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair , warmly embracing astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom-4 crew as they returned from space. What made the reel even more moving was Lena's clever choice of background score—Hans Zimmer's iconic Interstellar theme, which gave the real-life footage a cinematic, almost surreal, touch. Who is Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair? As per the Axiom Space website, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair is a decorated Indian Air Force test pilot and astronaut. A recipient of the prestigious Sword of Honour at the Hyderabad Air Force Academy. He was born on August 26, 1976, in Thiruvazhiyad, Kerala. He graduated top of his class at the US Air Force Air Command and Staff College in Alabama. Nair was among the four astronauts handpicked by ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission —India's first human spaceflight—and underwent rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia. On February 27, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially revealed him as part of India's astronaut team. He served as the backup pilot for Axiom Mission 4 . Had astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla been unable to fly, Nair would have taken his place on the historic mission. Given his integral training role, he formed a close bond with the crew, making Shukla's emotional welcome all the more heartfelt. His secret marriage to Malayalam actress On February 27, 2024, Lena also revealed their secret marriage—news she had been legally required to keep under wraps until the official announcement of Nair's role. She confirmed that she married Group Captain Prasanth on January 17, 2024, in a traditional ceremony. The post included a montage of clips. About Malayalam actress Lena Actress Lena has worked in popular movies like Pushpaka Vimanam, Ouseppinte Osyath, Kanyaka Talkies, Spirit, Traffic and many other movies. She was last seen in Nancy Rani and has Valathu Vashathe Kallan in the pipeline. About Gaganyaan Mission India's ambitious human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan, has now entered its final phase, with the country gearing up to send its first astronauts into space in early 2027. This milestone mission will see a crew of three Indian astronauts launched into a 400-km low Earth orbit for a three-day mission, culminating in a safe splashdown in Indian sea waters. The four Indian Air Force pilots, selected as astronaut-designates, have already completed their foundational training in Russia. They are currently undergoing mission-specific training in India, which includes rigorous assessments of their physical health, psychological fitness, and simulation-based readiness.
Scotsman
6 days ago
- Politics
- Scotsman
Broxburn Academy student awarded Westminster internship in memory of Robin Cook
A Broxburn Academy pupil has been selected as the first ever recipient of a prestigious new internship in memory of the late Foreign Secretary and former Livingston MP, Robin Cook. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Lena Zielinska, a senior pupil at Broxburn Academy, was chosen following a highly competitive selection process to take part in the Robin Cook Internship, a paid summer placement established by current Livingston MP Gregor Poynton to mark the 20th anniversary of Cook's passing. The internship, which runs over two weeks this summer, will see Lena gain first-hand experience of the work of an MP both in Westminster and at Gregor Poynton's constituency office in Craigshill. During her time in Parliament, Lena will attend meetings with senior politicians and officials, observe committee work, and support research, casework and campaigning activity. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Lena secured the internship after submitting a written essay on 'Livingston's Place in the World' and attending a formal interview. She was selected from a pool of over a dozen strong applicants from schools across the constituency. Gregor Poynton MP with Broxburn Academy pupil Lena Zielinska who has been awarded the first Robin Cook internship. As well as academic excellence, Lena is a champion debater and has represented Broxburn Academy in the Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament, Scotland's national debating competition for schools. She is also an active member of the school's STEM Committee, helps lead wellbeing and fundraising initiatives, and has volunteered with the NSPCC. She is a Girl Guide, a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award holder, and a fluent Polish speaker currently studying for Highers in English, History, Modern Studies, RMPS and Maths. Speaking after the announcement, Gregor Poynton MP said: 'Robin Cook was a towering figure in British politics and a hugely respected local MP. This internship honours his commitment to internationalism and public service and Lena reflects all of those values. She's thoughtful, articulate, passionate about her community, and I'm thrilled to have her join the team this summer.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Lena Zielinska added: 'I'm absolutely delighted to have been selected for the Robin Cook Internship. It's a tremendous opportunity for young people like me to learn more about politics and the work of an MP, both here in Livingston and at Westminster. I can't wait to get started and to gain experience that I know will stay with me for years to come.' Unsuccessful applicants were also invited to attend a special Q&A session with Gregor Poynton MP on Friday 11 July at his constituency office in Craigshill, where they had the opportunity to learn more about the workings of Parliament and meet the wider constituency team. The Robin Cook Internship pays the Real Living Wage and is open annually to S5 and S6 pupils across the Livingston constituency. It is expected to run again in summer 2026.
Graziadaily
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Graziadaily
Where In The World Does Lena Dunham Live?
If you've found yourself binging Lena Dunham's Too Much on Netflix, you're certainly not alone. The show - a heartbreakingly hilarious recounting of an emotionally-scorched American woman rebuilding her life in London - has left fans asking one big question: Where exactly is Lena Dunham calling home these days? Well, the answer isn't simple. Life certainly imitates art - and just like her characters, Lena's hard to pin down. The star lives across continents, in a haven of leafy houseplants, an enviable number of cats, and vintage finds that most of us only dream of thrifting. So, where exactly does Lena Dunham live (and is it painted entirely in Farrow & Ball?) The star divides her time between London and Connecticut, using the British capital city as her home base. Lena shared, 'When people ask me where I live now, I say, "Between London and Connecticut, 10 feet behind my parents." Yes, literally. Just as I always wanted.' Before moving to London in 2021, Lena was lucky enough to call several places home - shuffling around LA and West Hollywood, as well as moving frequently between Brooklyn and Manhatten during her six-year romance with musician Jack Antonoff. Gone are the Brooklyn brownstones and LA smoothie shops, with the star now living in a four-story North London townhouse with her British-Peruvian rockstar husband, Luis Felber, and their five cats and two dogs. Having lived there since Spring 2021, the couple have fondly referred to their townhouse as being a 'home base' and 'creative escape.' Giving fans glimpses into her stunning home, it's clear to see maximalism is key to Lena's style. Her home is filled with 'nine shades of green,' an entirely pink living room, and more hand-sewn textiles than a Wes Anderson film. Yes, the paint shades are reportedly Farrow & Ball. There's no shock there. The kitchen area is open plan - featuring Farrow & Ball Cooking Apple Green cabinets. A lover of thrifting, there's plenty of vintage goodies and unique finds to be found in Lena's home. Although work certainly brought her across the Atlantic on several occasions, it was her relationship with London-based Luis that cemented Lena's decision to call England home. Lena with her husband, Luis. ©Getty In many ways, Too Much is Lena's unashamed love letter to London - somewhat inspired by her own life. Using it as the backdrop for her ode to transatlantic heartbreak and chaotic self-discovery, she explained, 'I love everything about London. I find all of London glamorous, and I wanted to be able to show a diverse array of locations.' Opening up about life as a London 'It-girl,' Lena once revealed how the city's privacy and creative freedom was a refreshing change to the chaos of New York. She shared, 'London shocked me with it's reassuring differences - streets so wide that the buildings seemed to be stepping aside for me to pass, the blank slate of it all.' Describing the move as being a 'system upgrade,' Lena later added, 'You don't feel that you are being in any way hemmed in by other people's perceptions.' Referring to her London townhouse as an 'English fantasy', Lena also previously shared how her perfect morning involves feeding her small petting zoo of animals, followed by a blueberry matcha in bed and a reflection on the day ahead. How chic. JUNE 23: Lena Dunham (L) and Megan Stalter attend the "Too Much" UK Special Screening at The Barbican on June 23, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by) ©Getty Before her move to London, Lena spent many years living in LA and New York - selling her Los Angeles bungalow in 2021. Now, she favours a more laidback life. When she's not in England, she's at her 'forever' home in Connecticut - a purpose-built cottage located just 10 feet behind her parents home. Built during the pandemic, Lena's dad was said to have described the Girls star's dream home as looking 'like a kindergartener drew a house.' Given Lena was locked down halfway across the globe, her parents took the lead on much of the project. In fact, it was Lena's mum who lovingly unpacked the 112 boxes of belongings that the star had shipped from London. Opening up about arriving to the house for the first time, Lena emotionally recalled, '[It was] showing me just how well [mum] knew me. I felt a shocking amount of gratitude to have these parents and this home.' Filled with colour, cosiness, and whimsy, Lena also carefully curated the space to make it work for her - including her chronic illness. Lena suffers with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a rare condition that can cause chronic joint paint. Given her diagnosis, it was a priority to make sure her home was comfortable at any given stage. 'The low staircase is perfect for the days my arthritic hips give me trouble [and] the bathtub has a pull-up bar in case I get dizzy,' she previously said. Charlotte Robertsis a news and entertainment writer at Grazia UK. She spends her days covering everything celebrity, culture, and entertainment.
Daily Record
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Record
Broxburn Academy pupil selected as first recipient of Robin Cook Internship
The internship, which runs over two weeks this summer, will see Lena gain first-hand experience of the work of an MP both in Westminster and at Gregor Poynton's constituency office in Craigshill. A Broxburn Academy pupil has been selected as the first ever recipient of a prestigious new internship in memory of the late Foreign Secretary and former Livingston MP, Robin Cook. Lena Zielinska, a senior pupil at Broxburn Academy, was chosen following a highly competitive selection process to take part in the Robin Cook Internship, a paid summer placement established by current Livingston MP Gregor Poynton to mark the 20th anniversary of Cook's passing. The internship, which runs over two weeks this summer, will see Lena gain first-hand experience of the work of an MP both in Westminster and at Gregor Poynton's constituency office in Craigshill. During her time in Parliament, Lena will attend meetings with senior politicians and officials, observe committee work, and support research, casework and campaigning activity. Lena secured the internship after submitting a written essay on 'Livingston's Place in the World' and attending a formal interview. She was selected from a pool of over a dozen strong applicants from schools across the constituency. She said: 'I'm absolutely delighted to have been selected for the Robin Cook Internship. It's a tremendous opportunity for young people like me to learn more about politics and the work of an MP, both here in Livingston and at Westminster. 'I can't wait to get started and to gain experience that I know will stay with me for years to come.' As well as academic excellence, Lena is a champion debater and has represented Broxburn Academy in the Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament, Scotland's national debating competition for schools. She is also an active member of the school's Sports and Events Committee, helps lead wellbeing and fundraising initiatives, and volunteers weekly at a British Heart Foundation charity shop. She is a Girl Guide, a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award holder, and a fluent Polish speaker currently studying for Highers in English, History, Modern Studies and French. Unsuccessful applicants were also invited to attend a special Q&A session with Gregor Poynton MP at his constituency office in Craigshill, where they had the opportunity to learn more about the workings of Parliament and meet the wider constituency team. Gregor said: 'Robin Cook was a towering figure in British politics and a hugely respected local MP. This internship honours his commitment to internationalism and public service and Lena reflects all of those values. 'She's thoughtful, articulate, passionate about her community, and I'm thrilled to have her join the team this summer.' The Robin Cook Internship pays the Real Living Wage and is open annually to S5 and S6 pupils across the Livingston constituency. It is expected to run again in summer 2026.
