Latest news with #Pomodoro
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
8 Habits That Are Quietly Sabotaging Your Brain Health
Your brain is arguably your most valuable asset, but many everyday habits could be secretly undermining its ability to function. From constant screen time to saying no to that morning oatmeal, these seemingly harmless behaviors can leave your brain health in a slump. The good news is that experts say small changes can make a huge difference. We asked psychologists, physicians, and neuroscientists to explain the surprising habits that might be harming your brain and share alternatives to help you boost mental clarity, focus, and long-term cognitive function. Whether you're seeking improved concentration or just want to feel more mentally balanced, these lifestyle changes will help you support your brain health. Related: 7 Foods to Help Keep Your Brain Healthy and Sharp, According to Nutrition Experts Multitasking Experts have learned that your memory doesn't work as well when you are unable to focus on any one thing. 'Multitasking might feel like you're getting a lot done, but it actually slows you down and drains your brain,' says Sanam Hafeez, PhD, neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind. 'Every time you switch from one task to another, your mind has to reset, and that shift takes energy. Instead of being more efficient, you're burning through mental resources and making mistakes along the way.' To make a real difference, Hafeez suggests trying something like the Pomodoro technique, working for around 25 minutes on one task, then taking a short break. This focus, then intentional reset, gives your brain the time it needs to truly process what you're doing, keeping you more focused and productive in the long run. Sacrificing Sleep Sleeping for fewer than seven hours a night has been consistently linked to early cognitive decline, so getting enough rest should be a non-negotiable. 'Sleep clears toxins, consolidates memory, and restores brain function. And it's not just about hours,' says Sarah Bullard, PhD, clinical neuropsychologist and director of psychology at Gaylord Specialty Healthcare. 'Conditions like sleep apnea, which disrupt oxygen flow during sleep, are strongly associated with vascular damage and increased dementia risk," she adds. "If you snore loudly, wake up groggy, or feel drained despite 'sleeping,' it's worth getting evaluated.' Additionally, Will Haas, MD, MBA, a board-certified integrative medicine physician and founder of VYVE Wellness, says most people don't realize how damaging chronic low-level sleep deprivation can be. 'Over time, that sleep debt reduces the brain's ability to clear metabolic waste like beta-amyloid, which has been linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease,' he says. Related: Good Sleep Hygiene Promotes Better Physical and Mental Health—Here's How to Improve Yours Constantly Skipping Breakfast If you're one of the many people who skip breakfast, that time savings can mess with your brain's energy supply. 'After a night of sleep, your body has essentially been fasting for hours, and your brain needs fuel to get going,' says Hafeez. 'Skipping breakfast can lead to poor concentration, irritability, and a lack of motivation as the day progresses.' Instead of skipping it, Hafeez says to have something light but rich in protein and fiber such a smoothie or eggs with veggies. A solid breakfast helps keep blood sugar levels stable, so you stay sharp and focused throughout the morning. Mindless Scrolling Before Bed Mindless scrolling anytime can be detrimental to brain health, but it is especially problematic before bed. According to Jamey Maniscalco, PhD, neuroscientist and founder of Manifest Wellness, scrolling reduces our typical sleep duration due to heightened stress hormone release (i.e., cortisol) and melatonin suppression. As mentioned, sleeping well is especially important for maintaining optimal brain health. 'During both deep sleep (non-REM) and REM sleep, the brain takes information from the previous day and stabilizes it into long-term memory,' says Maniscalco. 'This process helps reinforce learning new information, problem-solving, and skill development.' So what to do instead of scrolling? Maniscalco suggests creating a 30-minute screen-free wind-down window before bed. 'Dim the lights (use lamps instead of overhead lights if possible), and swap scrolling for calming activities like light stretching, journaling, breath work, a calm conversation with your partner, or gratitude reflections,' he says. 'Even 10 minutes of pre-sleep quiet time can help signal the brain to shift into a rest-and-repair mode that encourages efficient, longer-duration sleep.' Overdoing To-Do Lists Believe it or not, overloading your to-do list can flood your working memory, which is not great for your brain. 'When people list everything they 'should' or 'could' do in a day without clear prioritization, they often feel more stressed, not less,' says Maniscalco. 'Research shows we can only hold about three to five meaningful items in working memory at any given time. Once we go beyond that, we overwhelm the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for planning, focus, and decision-making.' Maniscalco says this kind of cognitive overload leads to mental clutter, increased anxiety, and reduced intellectual performance. 'Over time, constantly operating in this overstimulated, unfocused state can take a toll on executive function, attention regulation, and even emotional regulation,' he adds. Instead, Maniscalco recommends trying the '3 Priorities Rule.' At the start of the day, identify the three most important or meaningful tasks to complete (or make progress towards). 'These become your anchors. Everything else becomes optional, delegated, or deferred,' he says. 'This small, powerful shift helps the brain operate with more clarity and intention.' Ignoring Social Connections It's way too easy as you age to get busy with work or get caught up in personal projects, letting most of your relationships take a back seat. But isolating can really mess with your brain. 'Connecting with people, even just talking to a friend or family member, gives your mind the kind of stimulation it needs to stay healthy,' says Hafeez. 'Without those interactions, your brain can start feeling sluggish and disconnected. You'll notice how much more present and clear-headed you feel when you make that time for others.' Overlooking LDL Cholesterol Having elevated LDL cholesterol is usually linked to poor heart health, but it's one of the biggest long-term risks to your brain health, too. One review in The Lancet identified it as a major risk factor for cognitive decline due to its impact on vascular health and brain volume loss. For Bullard, the big takeaway is that LDL cholesterol needs to be addressed in midlife in order to protect long-term brain health as you age. 'If your LDL is over 70 mg/dL (or worse, over 100), it's time to take action,' says Bullard. 'Some physicians advocate for keeping it under 70. Your annual physical is the best opportunity to bring this up.' Related: 10 Nutritious Foods for Healthy Cholesterol Levels Not Moving Enough Spending too much time sitting can shrink the brain's memory center, according to a 2018 study published in PLOS ONE. The ultimate brain-boosting intervention is cardiovascular exercise, according to Bullard. 'Nothing else delivers the same cognitive return,' she says. 'It reduces inflammation, supports weight control, manages blood pressure and blood sugar, and increases blood flow to the brain.' Make movement part of your routine even when time is limited. Bullard recommends walking meetings, a walking pad by your desk (not just a standing desk), wearing a weighted vest while walking the dog, or brief and consistent workouts, which all add up over time. 'Making movement non-negotiable will pay off now and in the future,' she says. Related: 13 Unexpected Health Benefits of Walking and How to Make a Habit of It Read the original article on Real Simple
Geeky Gadgets
7 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
5 Must-Have Open-Source Android Apps to Simplify Your Life
Finding the right Android apps that balance functionality, privacy, and efficiency can often feel overwhelming. Open source apps offer a transparent, customizable, and frequently ad-free alternative to proprietary software. These apps not only prioritize user privacy but also provide practical tools to streamline daily tasks and enhance productivity. In the video below from Enoch Boateng, you'll discover five exceptional open source Android applications that stand out for their utility, user-focused design, and privacy-conscious features. Watch this video on YouTube. Tomato: A Streamlined Pomodoro Timer If managing your time effectively is a priority, Tomato is a minimalist Pomodoro timer designed to help you stay focused. The app uses the Pomodoro Technique, breaking your work into manageable intervals—traditionally 25 minutes—followed by short breaks. However, the timer durations are fully customizable, allowing you to tailor the app to your specific workflow. Tomato also provides detailed productivity insights, including visual graphs that track your progress over time. Built with Material 3 design principles, its clean and modern interface ensures ease of use. With its focus on simplicity and transparency, Tomato is an excellent tool for boosting productivity without unnecessary distractions. Grit: Your All-in-One Task and Habit Tracker Grit combines task management and habit tracking into one cohesive platform, making it easier to stay organized and motivated. You can categorize tasks into areas such as personal, work, or health, making sure that your priorities are clearly defined. The habit-tracking feature includes a visual habit map, which helps you monitor progress and maintain consistency. The app also supports scheduled reminders, so you'll never miss a task or habit. Additionally, home screen widgets provide quick access to your daily goals, keeping everything you need at your fingertips. With its intuitive design and dual-purpose functionality, Grit is a valuable tool for anyone looking to stay organized and build positive habits. Momentum: Build Consistency with Ease Momentum is a habit tracker designed to help you establish and maintain routines effortlessly. Its straightforward interface includes features like a calendar view and streak tracking, which can motivate you to stick to your habits over time. The app also integrates an AI assistant that suggests habits based on your goals and provides timely prompts to keep you on track. Momentum prioritizes user privacy by offering offline functionality and local data storage, making sure your information remains secure. Whether you're adopting a new habit or breaking an old one, Momentum provides the tools and structure needed to succeed. Toolbox: A Versatile Utility App For users who value efficiency and versatility, Toolbox is an all-in-one utility app that offers a wide range of features. It includes tools such as a stopwatch, compass, text manipulation utilities, and encryption options. Developers will appreciate advanced features like SSH connections and HTTP utilities, while creative users can explore tools like a whiteboard, music analyzer, and random generators. Despite its extensive functionality, Toolbox remains lightweight and ad-free, making sure a smooth and seamless user experience. This app is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive, privacy-respecting toolkit to handle a variety of tasks. Thor App Manager: Take Control of Your Apps Thor App Manager is a powerful yet lightweight tool for managing your Android apps with precision. It offers advanced features such as batch installation and uninstallation, app freezing, and process termination. For rooted users, Thor unlocks additional system-level controls, including package editing and deeper app management capabilities. The app also provides tools for APK management and app data backup, making it an essential resource for users who frequently customize or experiment with their Android setup. Thor's focus on functionality and precision ensures that you can manage your apps confidently and efficiently. Enhance Your Android Experience with Open source Apps These five open source Android apps demonstrate the potential of transparent, privacy-focused software to deliver meaningful functionality. Whether you're looking to improve productivity with Tomato and Grit, build better habits with Momentum, access versatile tools with Toolbox, or gain advanced app control with Thor App Manager, these applications cater to a wide range of needs. By choosing open source solutions, you can enjoy a customizable, ad-free experience while maintaining control over your data and privacy. Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in Open source Android apps. Source & Image Credit: Enoch Boateng Filed Under: Android News, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
How Are Mumbai's Restaurants Transforming Their Menus to Embrace the Monsoon Mood?
The monsoon in Mumbai isn't just a season—it's a mood. With the rains comes a unique craving for warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence. 'People are now evolving and always looking for newer experiences as they tap into the season's natural cravings,' says Head Chef Edjose Fernandes from PCO. 'They look for warm, comforting flavours, spiced indulgences, and nostalgic favourites. Diners today are looking for personal and mood-driven menus that capture the essence of the season while offering something fresh and timely.' Faryal Singh from Eddies Café and Bar adds, 'It is important as there is a shift in the seasonal produce. With the shift in produce, it only makes sense to adapt to the seasonality. Also, for many, monsoon brings in the nostalgic feeling of indulgence hence we believe in catering to their needs.' As diners chase warmth and flavour to match the weather, restaurants across the city are responding with carefully curated monsoon menus—comforting yet creative, nostalgic yet novel. From reimagined regional classics to bold cocktail pairings, the city's kitchens are serving up dishes that celebrate the spirit of the season. Fluffy Pancakes & Thupka Therapy This monsoon, Eve, Santacruz brings the kind of indulgent comfort that feels like a warm hug on a rainy day. Their seasonal menu fuses mindful creativity with soul-soothing classics—from the rich Thupka Soup to Truffle Mushroom Fried Rice and soft, pillowy Dora Pancakes. Pair these with the cocktail menu that's equally in tune with the monsoon. From the savoury mystery of Don't Snitch About It to the dessert-forward Tira-Miss You , Eve transforms rainy days into memorable experiences—be it a quiet solo lunch or a cocktail-fuelled dinner party. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo Where: Eve, Linking Road, Santacruz West A Taste of Bandra in the Rain Over at Pomodoro , Bandra's favourite Pasta & Coffee Bar, the rains have inspired a limited-edition menu that speaks the language of comfort and class. Launched to celebrate their five-month milestone, this monsoon trio features Corn & Chilli Fritto, Limone Pepperoncino, and the fiery Orzo Piccante. Think of it as Bandra on a plate—cosmopolitan, cozy, and full of little surprises. Wrap up with their now-iconic thick hot chocolate—a warm, decadent finish to your rainy-day ritual. Where: Pomodoro, Bandra West Bubbly Sundays, But Make It Bigger PCO, Lower Parel brings back its iconic Bubble Brunch —this time with a monsoon makeover. The BIG Bubble Brunch is a delicious escape into slow brunching with bottomless sparkling cocktails, plush garden seating, and dishes that make the soul sing. Curated by Head Chef Edjose Fernandes, the highlights include Belgian Pork Belly Skewers, Dynamite Water Chestnut, and Bacon-Wrapped Prawns, all served in a lush speakeasy-style setting. Sip on seasonal specials like Storm in a Glass and Monsoon Bloom as the rain trickles in the background. Where: PCO, Lower Parel Soul Food, Small Pleasures Rainy days are tailor-made for comforting indulgences, and The Bigg Small Café + Bar knows it. Their monsoon lineup is hearty, familiar, and made for sharing. Kick things off with Mexican Corn Ribs—smoky, spicy, and addictive—or settle into the steamy depths of their Crab Meat Soup, each spoonful brimming with warmth. Ideal for rainy evening catch-ups, the vibe here is relaxed, nostalgic, and perfectly tuned to the season. Where: The Bigg Small Café + Bar, Lower Parel Chaat, Cocktails, and Comfort at Tattva Tattva Bar & Cafe has turned the monsoon into a celebration of chaat and cheer. Their monsoon menu is a flavour-packed parade of regional nostalgia and global whimsy. Must-tries include the Bruschetta à la Dabeli, Bhindi Chaat on Hummus, and their seasonal heroes—Masala Toddy and Spiced Jamun Picante. The offerings are punchy, playful, and tailor-made for Mumbai's signature drizzle. Where: Tattva Bar & Cafe, Andheri West Whether it's steaming soup in Santacruz, bubbly brunches in Lower Parel, or spicy chaat in Andheri, one thing is clear—Mumbai's restaurants are leaning into the rains like never before. This isn't just food for the season—it's food because of the season.
Hans India
17-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Simple ways to boost productivity
In today's always-on, endlessly distracted work culture, productivity often feels like an elusive goal. We chase bigger to-do lists, faster responses, and longer hours—often at the cost of clarity and well-being. But what if transforming your work life didn't require a massive overhaul? What if it came down to a handful of small, intentional changes? Here are 10 practical tips that can quietly but powerfully shift how you work—one small step at a time. 1. Start with the big task Every workday brings a long list of to-dos. Instead of getting buried under the small, easy items, tackle the biggest or hardest task first—before you check your email or open that chat window. That early win gives you momentum. Finishing something challenging at the start of the day creates a powerful sense of progress that helps you cruise through the rest of your list. 2. Try 25-minute focus sprints Set a timer for 25 minutes and work on one task—no interruptions, no phone, no distractions. When the timer rings, take a five-minute break. This technique, inspired by the Pomodoro method, can be surprisingly effective. Many professionals find they accomplish more in two hours of sprints than in a whole afternoon of distracted effort. 3. Batch similar tasks together Instead of constantly switching between emails, calls, and writing, try batching similar activities. Group all calls into one block, handle emails in a designated window, and reserve focused time for thinking or writing. Context switching drains mental energy. Batching protects your focus and keeps you in the flow. 4. Stick to one master list Many people juggle sticky notes, apps, notebooks, and mental checklists. Consolidate everything into one list—whether it's a digital task manager or a plain notebook. Having a single source of truth helps you stay organized and eliminates the stress of remembering what you forgot. 5. Say no more often It's tempting to say yes—to meetings, quick favours, side tasks—but each yes steals time from your real priorities. Learning to say no respectfully is a powerful form of time management. It clears your mental and physical workspace and protects your focus. 6. Automate the repetitive Many small, routine tasks don't need to be done manually. From setting up automatic bill payments to using scheduling tools or workflow automation software, you can offload a surprising amount of your day. Freeing up even 15 minutes a day adds up—and gives you space for more meaningful work or rest. 7. Move every hour Our bodies weren't made for marathon desk sessions. Standing up, stretching, or walking for even a minute every hour can boost energy and prevent the slump that hits mid-afternoon. Motion resets your brain and improves circulation. Bonus: It's great for your posture and long-term health. 8. Give each day a theme Rather than reacting to whatever pops up, set a light structure for your week. Assign themes to days: Monday for planning, Tuesday for meetings, Wednesday for focused work, and so on. This structure helps anchor your attention and makes your week feel less chaotic and more intentional. 9. Celebrate small wins Finished a sprint? Crossed off a major task? Celebrate it. You don't need a grand gesture—take a walk, enjoy a snack, or scroll guilt-free for five minutes. These mini rewards reinforce positive habits and help you stay motivated, especially on tougher days. 10. Reflect weekly End each week with a five-minute review: What went well? What drained you? What needs adjusting? This habit doesn't just help you plan better—it builds self-awareness. You start spotting patterns, trimming unnecessary effort, and designing a work life that truly works for you. Productivity isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters, in ways that are sustainable and satisfying. These ten shifts aren't about hustle or perfection; they're about thoughtful work habits that respect your time and energy. One small shift today could spark a better week tomorrow. And over time, those changes add up to a work life that feels more focused, fulfilling, and your own.
India Today
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
The ‘Study With Me' Trend Among Gen Z: Focus Buddy or Digital Distraction?
In an age of endless distractions, Gen Z has turned to a quiet and surprising form of motivation: watching strangers study 'Study With Me' trend where YouTubers livestream or record themselves studying in real time has grown into a global digital habit. Whether it's a two-hour Pomodoro session or a 10-hour livestream with ambient sounds, these videos aren't meant to entertain, but to help others does it really work for most students?WHAT IS 'STUDY WITH ME' TREND The concept originated in countries like South Korea and Japan, where students began livestreaming their study sessions to stay accountable. Over time, it evolved into structured videos featuring soft music, countdown timers, aesthetic desk setups, and silent focus 'Study With Me' content is found across YouTube, TikTok, and Discord servers, often mimicking cosy library vibes or minimal, ambient these streaming platforms, students can also join live virtual study spaces like StudyStream. This platform offers 'focus rooms' where learners from around the world study together in real time via video helps students stay motivated and accountable by working alongside others, even if they're far apart. Users can choose to have their cameras on or off, while keeping the room quiet and free from also has a supportive online community where members share tips and encouragement, making it easier to stay focused and creators behind the trend have a passion for building communities and offering support to fellow core motivation behind the trend is creating a global network of virtual study buddies who encourage and support each other through shared digital spaces. Today, 'Study With Me' content is found across YouTube, TikTok, and Discord servers, often mimicking cosy library vibes or minimal, ambient workspaces. WHY STUDY WITH ME TREND WORKS FOR SOMEFor students who thrive on structure or need a sense of companionship while studying alone, these videos can offer both routine and creators use the Pomodoro method, timed focus sessions with built-in breaks, which helps students maintain consistent productivity over calm, uninterrupted rhythm of these videos makes them a go-to for those looking to limit distractions without working in complete one YouTube video titled '2 Hour Study With Me | Background noise, Birds Chirping, 10-min break, No Music, Study with Merve', she explains, 'I hope this study video helps you avoid using social media while you study. Hopefully, this will get you more motivated to study. I hope that helps you know that I'm there studying with you.'advertisementThis message reinforces her goal: creating a virtual 'study buddy' through quiet companionship and a calming IT IS ABOUT AESTHETICS, NOT THE STUDYFor some Gen Z viewers, 'Study With Me' is less about productivity and more about atmosphere. The aesthetic, clean desks, ambient lighting, rain sounds, and neatly arranged stationery, create a calm vibe that many find emotionally soothing or visually it doesn't always lead to deep focus, it offers a curated, peaceful environment that can feel comforting, even if one isn't actively it is not true for its popularity, 'Study With Me' isn't a universal solution. Some students feel that watching someone else study can become yet another form of procrastination. Others find the experience too passive or overly while the aesthetic aspect is a draw for some, others feel it can create unnecessary pressure to have a 'perfect' study space, rather than focusing on what works for them. When it's about making a clean and aesthetic space to study and not study itself (AI-generated image) advertisementWHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYINGIn a small survey conducted via Google Forms amongst college-age students, 77.8% of respondents said they do not use 'Study With Me' videos as part of their study ranged from preferring silence to finding screens more distracting than remaining 22.2% said the videos help them stay accountable or feel less alone during long hours of self-study, especially for competitive exams or during online FROM REAL STUDENTSSometimes, the best study advice comes from those in the middle of a student at the University of Delhi, says she turns to 'Study With Me' videos when she needs to stay focused. 'Seeing someone else stay on track helps me stay disciplined too,' she an undergraduate student in New Delhi, shared that long study sessions often feel easier when she watches others study online. 'It feels like I'm not studying alone.'advertisementThe 'Study With Me' trend may not suit every learner, but for some, it offers a subtle kind of support that goes beyond the screen. Whether it's a background presence, a motivational tool, or just a calming visual routine, it reflects Gen Z's evolving relationship with learning, productivity, and mental education becomes more hybrid and self-driven, these virtual study rooms might just become a quiet fixture in how students build focus and community from written by Yashika Pawar- Ends
