City Scope Edition 16

R

2024 HAPPY NEW YEAR

(+852) 81000 711 | www.india.hk

Taal

Authentic Asian Cuisine NOW OPEN

Dear Readers,

Dr. Kulddeep Buttar CEO, Buttar Group of Companies

As another year comes to an end, we all are beaming with hope for a better tomorrow, a new year full of love and glory. 2023 was an eventful year as we saw the world brimming with numerous changes to bring in more inclusivity and positivity towards each other. It was also a year that saw several atrocities, from natural calamities to wars and even threatening climatic conditions.

It would only seem prudent to say that the last year offered many valuable lessons to humankind.

We are now living in an age where we priortise self-care more than ever, which is indeed a necessity. However, it is also time we all got together to care for the planet and fellow humans.

Before it gets too late, let's pause for a bit and evaluate every single, small step we take and the ripple effect it might have on the bigger picture. The only way forward is with love, empathy, and utmost kindness for every individual that crosses our path. Remember, it is always the little things that make a huge impact.

On that note, the cover of this edition features one such person who has devoted his life to make the world a better place for all. Waging a war against one of the most daunting conditions humanity faces — cancer — is Mr. Kulwant Singh Dhaliwal. An inspiration to all, Mr. Dhariwal is the heart and soul of a movement that seeks to transform the narrative surrounding this relentless disease by making people aware of the fact that if detected early, cancer can be cured and lives can be saved. Hope his journey will inspire our readers. Lastly, I extend my best wishes for the New Year to all our readers and their loved ones. Happy reading!

Kulddeep Buttar

CONTRIBUTORS APURVAMENON

ASTHAANAND

is passionate about travel, animals, and everything sustainable. Carries an experience that is a perfect amalgamation of hospitality and digital marketing.

is a therapist and the founder of theperspectiveco.

Best described as a learner learning to unlearn and relearn.

She is on a mission to normalise therapy and create awareness.

DIKSHADOGRA is a personality transformation coach and speaker. She helps people in reprogramming their subconscious mind to become a better version of themselves and live a joyful life.

GAURI

IUSHEMAGOO

MANJULAVIJH

is an incurable optimist and a self-proclaimed wordsmith.

She is passionate about painting and writing. You will find her surrounded by plants, humming timeless tunes.

is an avid reader and a photography enthusiast. She is keen on creating content from the heart. You’ll find that her quips and quirks are as unique as the spelling of her name.

is a food photographer and stylist. A PhD holder, she has been an academician for 14 years. She is currently pursuing her passion as a food, product, and lifestyle photographer.

SAHIBAVAID

SAHILMAGOO

SUMRITBUTTAR

is a certified life coach, cognitive behaviour therapist, neuro-linguistic practitioner, and a motivational speaker.

She is also the founder of Aesthetic Horizons by S&S.

is the Editor of the magazine. He completed his master's in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong and has worked with several media houses.

is an explorer who wants to know more about digital innovation. He completed his graduation in Public Health with minors in Business Administration from SFU.

VANIRAJ

VIDHIARYA

VINNIGUPTA

is a realist who builds castles in the sky and believes in centaurs and power of the force.

She drinks (coffee) and knows things. You are invited to be a part of her stories.

is a lawyer by profession who is also studying French on the side. She is a dog mom, a travel enthusiast, and inquisitive towards local crafts and handlooms.

is a graphic designer by profession and a dancer by passion. She is a foodie, a die-hard K-drama fan, and a travel enthusiast who wants to learn new art forms.

CONTENTS 35 Food styling and photography:

COVER STORY

build your prop collection

65 Horoscope for 2024

66

A warrior against cancer: empowering through awareness LIFESTYLE

29

57 Improve your productivity one step at a time

25 Meditation and its different types

In the midst of my 20s

49 Surviving a quarter-life crisis...

66 The uniqueness within 41 Wedding planning and the psychology behind it

21 Workplace buzzwords that dominated 2023

style quotient on these trends?

LEISURE

SAHIL MAGOO

Editor-in-Chief (sahil@cityscope.hk) Design by

HEALTH

dhvanidesign@gmail.com

39 Respecting depression:

Technical Consultant:

61

For Advertisements/ Guest Columns/Contributions:

it's not just "being sad"

you bet your beauty and 17 Would

VIDHI ARYA

Senior Copy Editor

Unfolding your relationship with food

DINENDER PC

info@cityscope.hk editor@cityscope.hk

LITERATURE

05 "I have measured out my life with coffee spoons"

45 Embracing the Spartan revolution TRAVEL 53 Master the art of styling your home Half pint

Ireland, please!

09

@CityScopeMagazineHK

@cityscopehk

DISCLAIMER The team members of City Scope have tried to make sure that the content is accurate on the date of publication.

The views expressed in the articles reflect the author's opinions and are not necessarily the views of the publisher and the editor.

The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith.

City Scope Magazine accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by the errors and for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without written consent from the Editor.

City Scope reserves the right to make any changes with immediate effect and without providing any prior notice.

05 | LITERATURE

“I HAVE MEASURED OUT MY LIFE WITH COFFEE SPOONS” While we continue to lead our lives, some are facing serious repercussions of war that are far beyond our comprehension.

Sometimes, all it takes is a piece of literature to bring us face-to-face with such reality

R Shivi

evolutions are known to be started by leaders, continued by people, and brought to fruition by mass support. Have you ever thought that a poem could bring about a revolution? The Oxford Dictionary defines a poem as a piece of writing in which the expression of feelings and ideas are given intensity. Such intensity is known to be a part of liberal discussions and analytical insights, but cause a revolution?

That is a thing of politics. In the past, and even in the present, literature and art have found a way to express the collective

emotion of the world. Whether it be the world wars or the pandemic, poetry has not only been the outlet of emotions but also the one shaking the world enough to think about what is right. Poems pave the way for humans to move in the right direction and ponder about their actions. Here are some poems that have paused the world and made them dwell on the repercussions of what they are doing.

The Waste Land

by T.S. Eliot (1922)

Considered the prime war poem, T.S. Eliot's 'The Waste Land' captures the emotion of a war-torn world that can only be repaired through peace and collective human effort. Eliot's poem is essentially of horror. When one reads it, it feels like broken pieces of glass glued together to form an entire painting that makes sense. It switches between sarcasm, satire, and mockery quite smoothly. The poem is a total of 434 lines that capture the grotesque doing of humankind. It writes about how

incapable human beings have rendered themselves by destroying all that nature had to offer. In the wake of the world wars, Eliot wrote his poem as a central work of modernist poetry. It includes some of the most striking and terrifying lines that have been quoted after centuries — "April is the cruelest month", "I will show you fear in a handful of dust", "These fragments I have shored against my ruins", and the Sanskrit mantra "Datta, dayadhvam, damyata" and "Shantih shantih shantih".

The Second Coming

by W.B. Yeats (1919)

It is not easy to separate the world from religion, and W.B. Yeats kept showing examples of that throughout his poetry.

Have you ever thought that a poem could bring about a revolution? Here are some works that paused the world and made them dwell on their actions

LITERATURE | 06

Whether it be the world wars or the pandemic, poetry has not only been the outlet of emotions but also the one shaking the world enough to think what is fair.

Poems pave the way to move in the right direction

The poem employs Christian imagery regarding the apocalypse and the second coming of Christ to describe allegorically the atmosphere of post-war Europe. The poem was written after the horrifying aftermath of World War I. In using the Christian myth, much like Eliot, Yeats tries to showcase how ruthless humankind has been, through the war. Its famous line, "Things fall apart, the center cannot hold" has been widely quoted through popular culture.

Dulce et Decorum Est

by Wilfred Owen (1921)

Wilfred Owen's work is a terrific response to a well-known poem, 'The Soldier' by Rupert Brooke, who, in his poem, defined how an individual seeks solace in serving his country. Owen, on the other hand, describes the fright of doing so. The poem presents a scene where a group of British soldiers are bombarded with chlorine gas. One soldier cannot seem to put on his gas mask well in time, and the rest of the narrative describes the gruesome effects that the gas had on the soldier. The poem concludes by saying that anyone who knows the repercussions of war will not delve into it. The titular line, 'dulce et decorum est pro patria mori': "How sweet and honourable it is to die for one's country", mocks Brooke's claim of how honourable it is to die for one's country.

Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night

by Dylan Thomas (1951)

Dylan Thomas' poem not only lays down the problem but also calls for action.

His advice is simple — do not sleep without acting, and for him, action is awareness.

In this war laden world where humans do not learn from their actions, the poet pens down a villanelle in order to wake the readers from their sleep of ignorance.

In the first part of the poem, the speaker encourages his father not to "go gentle into that good night" but, instead, to "rage, rage against the dying of the light."

While this poem has inspired unique discussions and detailed analysis from critics such as Seamus Heaney, Jonathan Westphal, and Sir Henry Walford Davies, some interpretations of the poem's meaning are derived from mutual agreement.

"This is obviously a threshold poem about death", Heaney states, and Westphal agrees, noting that "Thomas is advocating an active resistance to death".

Suicide In The Trenches

by Siegfried Sassoon (1918)

This poem contains discomforting imagery, but the poet's writing in the war times have not shied away from writing about disturbing terms as something had to be done to battle the inhumane things being done to the world. Sassoon was himself an appraised upper-class officer who eventually opposed the war but he never lost his admiration for the common soldiers who had to battle and subsequently lose their lives. Sassoon felt disgust for the political leaders and civilian war hawks who, safe in their power and comfort, sent young men off to die in huge battles that seemed futile and pointless.

09 | TRAVEL

Trinity College

TRAVEL | 10

Half pint

Ireland, please!

Captivating castles, lively pubs, and breathtaking vistas, it is in Ireland where ancient history meets modern charm and where every moment unveils a memorable story

Ireland

Iushe Magoo

C

urious about the title?

Naturally, you would be, if, like me, you too got to see only a part of what Ireland has to offer and cannot wait to reorder from the 'travel bar' the remaining bits.

This iconic green island, situated on the outer banks of Europe in the Atlantic Ocean, is perhaps one of the fastest growing economies in Europe and has always been a fan-favourite for tourism.

During my month-long vacation in Europe this summer, I kept three days earmarked for Ireland, and though a short stint, sometimes even three days are

more than enough to make a trip historic.

So, here's how I chose to spend my days in Ireland —

Day 1: Dublin

Since I was travelling from London, I took a one hour and 15 minutes flight into Dublin. For Indian Nationals holding the UK BIVS visa (British Irish Visa Scheme), entry and stay into Northern Ireland is allowed without having a separate Irish visa stamp, and vice-versa. You must ensure that your first entry is in the country from which you've obtained this visa.

A swift glance at the top 10 itineraries of things to do and places to see when in Dublin and I got directed to the following recurring in many lists...

Ha'penny Bridge

11 | TRAVEL Spire of Dublin

l Trinity College l Dublin Castle l The very many beautiful beaches l Dublin's whiskey distilleries l Dublin pub crawl l The Guinness Storehouse l St. Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedral l Molly Malone Statue and others l Killiney Hill l The Viking Splash and Dubilinia

After a quick rest and recoup at the hotel, I was off to see a couple of these sights.

One may argue, at length, about the best way to get around Dublin and view all the tourist sites. Is it by walking tours, the Hop-On-Hop-Off busses, or the Viking splash? Or is it a mix of all three?

The answer is simple: it depends on you and your preferences.

First up, Trinity College. Possibly one of the most notable landmarks of Dublin, Trinity College was created by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. The grounds of this prestigious university are free to enter, so be sure to stroll around and see the remarkable Long Room Library.

The history buffs shouldn't especially forget the legendary Book of Kells.

Then was the St. Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedral; with barely a seven-minute walk between the two, you can easily stroll around and admire Ireland's top two iconic cathedrals in all their glory, with St. Patrick's being the larger of the two.

Located very close to Trinity College and a bunch of other bars is the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street. Though the theories are many, the most popular one says that Molly worked as a 'fishwife' who would likely have followed a route, and others commonly referred to her as the 'Tart with the Cart', for she led a double life as the 'Woman of the Night'. Thus, it is a popular spot for tourists to click some raunchy yet good-humoured photos. As evening neared, 'Drizzly Dublin' grew foggier with mist, and it was time for the famous pub crawl.

Pubs: Possibly the first place your mind veers off to when one thinks of Dublin are the pubs. Easily the most popular and convenient thing to do when visiting Dublin on a timeline is to hit some of its most famous and old pubs and have a pint of Guinness or whatever your choice of poison is and enjoy the night.

Temple Bar Street

Strawberry slush high

I made a beeline for the Temple Bar straight off, as it had been on my bucket list for years. A bustling riverside neighbourhood lined with cobblestoned streets, this spot is an exuberant cultural hub in Dublin that hosts several restaurants, galleries and pubs.

Historically, the Temple Bar square has always been a popular spot, owing to the Vikings who had camped and settled in the area as early as 795 AD.

The street gets its name from the Temple Family, for the head of the family, Sir William Temple, had first built a house and some gardens there in the 1600s.

Pubs such as the Temple Bar Pub, The Turk's Head, The Porterhouse, The Foggy Dew, and The Auld Dubliner, amongst others, pack a vibrant energy that comes to life every evening over spilt beer, tourists shuffling in and out in heaps, and the sweet sound of live

TRAVEL | 12 Paddy Mac's Irish Bar

Temple Bar Pub

Live music at a pub

or recorded music engulfing you in this cosy, tipsy hug, that is the Temple Bar square.

Apart from music and drinks, the country is also known for having some of the best stand-up comedians, so comic shows are also a regular/weekly feature in most of the pubs here.

From the list mentioned above, I could manage to view only a select few destination spots, as the unpredictable rains made

the other destinations unfit for visitation.

Keeping all fingers crossed and praying to the mighty rain gods for a sunny day, we booked a trip to the Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin the following day.

Day 2: Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City

On day two, the sun was a no-show again.

Located in Burren on the Wild Atlantic Way are the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most visited attraction, which gives you a spectacular, panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean We were off in a bus to the Cliffs of Moher, driving steadily amidst intermittent rain.

Pro Tip: even if it says that August and September are good months to visit Dublin, with relatively lesser rain, never forget to pack a windcheater and/or a raincoat, as the Irish weather is notorious for being consistent throughout the year, yet unpredictable with its mood swings within just a day.

Located in Burren on the Wild Atlantic Way are the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most visited attraction, which gives you a spectacular, panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. From the top of these sea cliffs, you can view the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the Twelve Bens mountain ranges and the Maumturks on the northern side, while Loop Head is visible on the southern side.

It is quite a mesmerising experience, with beautiful scenery all around. In fact, we were blown away, quite literally! Owing to the rainy weather, it was very windy near the ocean, so much so that tourists literally had to latch themselves tight onto one another or the side railings to keep themselves from being swept away.

On days when it is sunny outside, there are guided boat tours that happen down the sea as well. These take you through some of the bigger caves located at the helm of the cliffs. The visuals here are so enchanting that the entire place looks like it has come out of a movie set. You may have noticed the Cliffs of Moher in many famous movies such as Leap Year, The Princess Bride, and of course, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince of the Harry Potter Series.

From here, the tour takes you towards Galway, where you'll pass the Burren National Park, Dungaire Castle, and Galway Bay, all the while learning about the history of these places, as the bus driver is also your tour guide at the trip. We stopped midway at a local pub for lunch and refreshments and tried some of the better-known and trusted Irish-English delicacies like meat stew, corn chowder,

13 | TRAVEL

Cliffs of Moher

and the good-old fish and chips.

The stop in Galway is about two hours long on this tour, giving you plenty of time to explore the Eyre Square of this West Coast harbour city. Galway is bohemian, artsy, most astoundingly musical, and above all, a cultural hub that is perfect to jauntily roam about, when in Ireland.

Declared as the UNESCO City of Film, Galway hosts many festivals throughout the year, such as the Galway Arts or Film Festival and Galway Oyster Festival, amongst others.

Since I was under a time constraint with a day tour here and only three in Ireland overall, I couldn't explore the very nooks and corners of this beautiful coastal city and had to instead have my fill with just Eyre Square.

(Above): View of the Branaunmore sea stack from the Cliffs of Moher (Right): O'Brien's Tower at the Cliffs of Moher

EYRE SQUARE: The heart of Galway

City, Eyre Square is also known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, as the former US President was made a freeman of the city, and the spot is celebrated in his name as it marks the place where he gave a speech to more than 100,000 people, during his last trip before the assassination. The square quintessentially represents shopping and merriment, as it hosts various boutiques, an indoor mall and multiple seasonal markets, coupled with a side of pubs, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

With over 70 shops in the square's centre, hosting both Irish and select international brands, the place is a shopper's delight for all your regular and souvenir shopping, collecting the best of local trinkets such as the Claddagh rings, Aran Sweaters, and Bog-oak carvings.

The incessant festivals, small pubs lining the streets, Irish music filling the air,

TRAVEL | 14

Eyre Square is also known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park.

The former US President gave a speech to more than 100,000 people at this spot on his last trip before assassination chefs inviting you to try their local delicacies, and the vibrant architecture of the city are all confirmatory signs in themselves to claim Galway as the festive capital of Ireland.

With nearly whole of day two gone, we were back in Dublin late evening at around 7pm, only to be greeted with more rain. The next logical step was to return to my room and call it a night. But I'm not very logical while on vacation.

So, a quick outfit change later, I was making my way, amidst the rain, to the nearby pubs when I spotted this well-kept treasure, Mr. Fox, a former Michelin-star restaurant, with an unreasonably long queue inside. To the untrained eye, it's almost impossible to clock a place like Mr. Fox, given that it is a basement restaurant in a residential area, indicated in measly written letters on a small board. But I am glad to have clocked it in time.

Since dinner in European countries tends to start as early as 5- 6pm, the reservations to eat at the restaurant were already full for the day, so I sat by the bar for a couple of drinks and to take in this Victorian, speak-easy atmosphere. Wooden flooring, dim lights, plush leather couches, the rain outside, a mean Negroni, French 75, and just the right amount of tangy Yuzu Sour, made it to one of my most memorable spots in Ireland thus far.

Day 3: Shopping in Dublin

With a flight back to London scheduled late in the evening, I kept my day three in Ireland light and languid, by exploring many streets and pubs in Dublin. Is it possible for a girl to travel and not check out the local area for shopping? The answer is plain as day.

Given below are some of the top sites to shop in Dublin, while sightseeing and, of course, sipping beers/whiskey cocktails like a true-blue Irish.

HENRY STREET: One of the focal

points for shopping in the city, Henry Street is easily accessible to pedestrian tourists commuting in the city, who are bound to

stop by the many independent designers, shopping centres, and reasonable restro-bars lining the street. You can easily spot popular European brands such as Mango, Primark, Debenhams, River Island, Clarks, etc.

GRAFTON STREET: Again a main shopping street with a historical significance dating back to the 18th century, when O'Connell Bridge bridged the gap between the two sides of Dublin. This street is renowned for its plethora of high-end stores, fashion boutiques, and vintage stores.

BROWN THOMAS DUBLIN:

A luxury departmental store housing retail gems such as Chanel, Hermes, and Cartier, amongst others, is the go-to spot for all things luxury. It also offers exceptional

dining experiences in restaurants such as Hugh Brown and Edition Café.

COW'S LANE AND LIBERTY MARKET: Stepping aside from the

normative offerings of Henry and Grafton Street, Cow's Lane offers a narrow but thorough street that has fashionable knitted and leather goods. While situated in the southern inner suburbs, Liberty Market is one of the most charming and oldest local markets of Dublin. Don't forget to get yourself a souvenir from here!

Now do you see why my pint of Ireland was served only half? However, it was a truly delicious pint (read journey). If the 'Luck of the Irish' is real, then I hope to return soon for the full pint.

17 | LIFESTYLE

Would you bet your

Gauri D.

beauty T style & quotient on these trends?

The beauty world is full of all things pretty and glitzy. Every day the industry is coming up with unique ingredients with potent results to cater to every skincare enthusiast. But, are all of them worth a try? Let's find out

he glamorous fashion industry has had almost all of us believing pigs can fly.

The transformation videos on social media are disturbingly mind blowing, and everyday brands pop up new fashion and cosmetics for us to go gaga over. The beauty industry, with the same message of self-expression and enhancement, brings up tons of unique trends every day.

These are never just limited to beauty looks one can create. The industry and its research and development team have left no stone unturned to find plethora of ingredients to play around with.

Turn on your Google alerts, and every week, you will find the industry and users going crazy for a new ingredient or procedure.

When we speak of ingredients used in the beauty industry, did only chemicals pop into your mind? Hold on! This industry has a lot more to offer, whether it is the natural ingredients for the environment conscious consumers or chemical actives for the skincare junkies; the possibilities are endless in this realm.

Mushrooms, algae, slime, colostrum, and coffee, are some of the trending ingredients that sound plain weird at first.

But really, the beauty enthusiasts are loving it. Afterall, what is the harm with some

LIFESTYLE | 18

nature-inspired experimentation, right?

Everyone talks about the amazing trends and beautiful looks, the fairytale dresses. Well, this whimsical wicca is here to tell you the biggest failures. So, tighten your seatbelts, pull up your socks, and hold on for dear life because this ride is about to get bumpy and deep underground!

SNAKE SPA, ANYONE?

Thai, shiatsu, aromatherapy, Scandinavian, hamam, reflexology, hot stone massage, ayurvedic relaxation all sound familiar, right? When you think of going for a good spa, the list of relaxing options goes on and on. While most of these find their roots in more traditional and cultural practices, some thrill seekers can not even relax without a healthy dose of adrenalin.

A spa in Israel now allows small snakes to slither around the body as a massage therapy. They say it relieves migraines.

If a snake crawled up my body, I bet I would forget about my headache and only care for my life. The bigger game happens in the Philippines. A zoo in the Philippines offers their visitors a warm (umm, maybe cold) welcome with a python massage.

They drop two heavy pythons on the visitors. The only way to relax is letting them do their thing and not to poke them.

SLIME IT UP

Have you seen a snail? Does it look like it could be the right fit for the beauty industry? Well, the slimy snail trail is considered gold in the world of cosmetics.

Many fancy brands are now selling bottled small mucin as a skincare elixir.

From anti-ageing to clearing those nagging acne, experts say snail mucin takes care of everything. And, also it provides hydration for days.

Now, I am not a sceptic, and it might be all true, but what many people are forgetting is that the industry experts would pack the mucin in a bottle with a lot of care, caution, and processing.

They don't just pick a snail, collect mucin, and simply sell it in a bottle to make bucks.

Everything that reaches our vanity is processed in a manner that it is not just beneficial but also safe. However, in the name of trends, some people are taking their skincare to their gardens, and maybe that's just inviting diseases. Images of a

woman lying still with a giant snail on her face are going rampant on social media.

Not sure if that is the way to go about it.

JUST CLOWNIN'

With The Barbie Movie and The Little Mermaid making moolah at the box office globally, the beauty industry got several trends to follow and enjoy.

Barbie Core and Mermaid Core that trended on the social media were cute and peppy.

But then came the Clown Core.

Dressing up like a clown from head to toe is now considered rather fashionable.

People come on camera to exhibit how to create the most bizarre look with wacky mismatched clothes and garish accessories.

Those weird characters from old TV shows who wore carrot earrings and polka-dot tutus are back with a bang.

One might even say Luna Lovegood is practically a trendsetter fashionista in the current scenario. The next time you have those bedhead looks or smudged runny makeup from last night's shenanigans, you can call it #lazycore, and what do you know, you might set the next hit trend.

NIGHTINGALE DREAMS

Many many years ago, in Japan, Geishas applied nightingale dropping as a face mask. They believed it reversed the effect of lead and zinc in their makeup.

As per the Japanese, the nightingale droppings contain an enzyme called guanine. This enzyme acts as a natural bleaching agent and lightens dark circles and blemishes. Not just that, the dropping also gently exfoliates and illuminates the skin. I wonder why can't we eat well to ensure all this?

One might say they were enduring it to avoid harmful effects and reap maximum benefits. But guess what? The trend is back in action! Now, Americans are paying a handsome amount of US$ 180 to get their faces exfoliated with nightingale droppings and rice bran mixture. If one had to say the

When we speak of ingredients used in the beauty industry, algae, mushrooms, colostrum, and slime are some of the weird ones. Here are few more in this article that will leave you repelled

entire skincare industry and uncountable exfoliating products have failed humanity, how is this a wise solution?

JIZZ JAZZ

As you read this part, I think you will also wonder if the humankind would do anything to stay or at least look young?

Bull semen is the latest anti-ageing elixir that cosmetic companies are hyping over.

Londoners also believe bull semen helps treat hair loss. Two shots in one go?

THE BALENCIAGA EFFECT

For those who may be unaware, Balenciaga is a luxury brand that has been in chatter for its unique taste in fashion.

From handbags that look like trash bags to clutches that look like Lays packets to bracelets made of just chain heads, this brand is probably the longest-running con on the cream of the crop population.

The weird part is people spend thousands of dollars to acquire this literal and figurative 'junk', and some of us envy these people for their luck to be able to afford it. Coincidentally, their latest creation is a terry cloth towel skirt. I wish I knew my father was a trendsetter, I would have never argued with him over fashion.

This is nothing compared to the shenanigans of our ancestors. There have been instances from across the globe where seemingly different things were considered a matter of pride or a status symbol.

Black teeth were a symbol of status among the rich in Japan. Romans offered a facial with Gladiator's sweat. Europe was nuts for the pale and sickly tuberculosis look, and the Chinese were saving the sharpness of their nail cutters!

While humans have taken some strides for the betterment of civilisation, some humble souls believe in sticking to their roots. Though some may argue that age-old practices are sustainable, environment-friendly, and extremely beneficial, science may say otherwise.

Many practices from our ancestors are great, but when it comes to the evolved, modern-day world, embracing the new seems the wiser thing to do. However, while to each their own is true, those who believe such hazardous activities are really beneficial, god bless their hearts!

21 | LEISURE

Workplace buzzwords that dominated 2023 Many people are finally stepping out of the rat race and embracing a life beyond work.

As the narrative around work-life changes, here are some patterns the world observed in 2023 Vidhi Arya

A

fter battling COVID-19 adversities for nearly two years, 2023 saw things returning to normalcy. Till the time the pandemic hit us all, we associated our entire identity with only our work. When people asked about us, didn't we all say, "I am an architect", "I am a writer", etc, you agree, right? However, during these two years, we witnessed the grave unpredictability of life. This clubbed with the new work-from-home patterns taught us how valuable our life beyond our cubicles is.

And, how we have been taking the little joys of life — being with our families, indulging in self-care, a good afternoon nap, and many more — so lightly.

All of this results in what, you ask?

With 2023, as most companies are desperate to shift back to pre-COVID norms, employees are loving and embracing the shift in their mindsets towards a healthy work-life balance. It has given rise to some common patterns observed among employees who truly value life beyond their 9-to-5 jobs. Let's delve more into some workplace buzzwords that came to the limelight in 2023 because of this shift.

employees resorted to rage applying. As the name suggests, it involves simultaneously sending out applications to numerous companies, hoping for a positive response from somewhere. While it's advisable to narrow down your job search and apply with a strategy, in the desperation of quickly finding a new job in a slow market that we saw in 2023, people resorted to rage applying.

RAGE APPLYING

QUIET HIRING

Our priorities have changed big time, but companies? Not so much. With our newfound love towards life, a lot of us feel unhappy and unsatisfied with the quality of life that comes with our present jobs.

Be honest, don't you agree? Don't worry, we won't tell your employer.

Due to this feeling of expectations not aligning with ground reality at work, many

The fear of recession is hovering in many countries, and several major economies have already succumbed. Also, as we saw so many layoffs every day, it was evident that companies were keen on cost-cutting in 2023. The result of the same is quiet hiring. This workplace buzzword talks about the trend where employers refuse to hire new staff to meet company requirements.

LEISURE | 22

Instead, they either upskilled a person to take on a new role or just dumped more workload on some employees. While some workers find it motivating to be upskilled and given more tasks, it does not align with everyone's aspirations and expectations from the job.

QUIET QUITTING

No, this workplace buzzword has nothing to do with being as rude as resigning without notice. Instead, it means not quitting at all while also not doing what's required out of the job role. As the job market was slow in 2023 and the opportunities were rare, finding a new job has been a tough task for many. In such a scenario, leaving an existing job was definitely not the best option.

So, the pattern that was observed among employees was quiet quitting.

As per this trend, employees did the bare minimum required from the job role to keep from getting fired but refused to go the extra mile for work. Refusing to work overtime, not engaging in meetings, and not taking up extra work are some things that people resorted to when they chose to quiet quit. It was a way people opted to show displeasure towards the working conditions of their company by shirking their responsibilities.

RESENTEEISM

Gone are the days when employees would take up all the bashing and beating with a smile. If you are an employer, be ready for tantrums! As per this trend, employees who resented their jobs — those who were ill-treated or were unhappy with the environment — chose to display their feelings loud and clear.

Some common ways employees resorted to in resenteeism included not performing well, frequent absenteeism, talking back, and many other unique personalised ways.

Resenteeism was more common in people technically trapped at work due to a lack of better opportunities, rising job threats, or a weak market.

It was also common in those who wished to value work-life balance, but their companies thought otherwise.

BARE MINIMUM MONDAYS

As you will read along, you will realise a lot of us have been following this trend

for ages. Thanks to social media, it now has both name and fame. As the name suggests, bare minimum Monday was a trend where people resorted to doing the bare minimum on a Monday. Doing just enough to not get pulled up by a manager has been the prime aim of this trend.

Why, you ask? You might have noticed that a lot of us start feeling Monday blues on Sunday afternoons. Most of us spend half of our Sunday worrying about what the first day of the week will look like.

It brings in a lot of gloominess and anxiousness to our beloved Sunday. However, when you already know you will do just enough to sail through, when you've already decided to keep the Monday light and easy, what's there to worry about? Also, it significantly reduces the overwhelming feeling that we usually have after returning to work post the weekend. So, doing just enough saves us two days of feeling overwhelmed and anxious. What a win-win!

regarding office presence between the companies and employees. While the pandemic made the employees appreciate the overall benefits of working from home, companies were not too convinced. By the end of 2023, we saw companies asking their employees to return to work as a mandate.

However, the employees know better!

Now that one needs to return to the office, one needs to find ways of having a good time.

That is how coffee badging came to the fore. As per this trend, employees forced to return to the office are now coming in and spending considerable time socialising with colleagues, taking coffee breaks, working in between, and returning home.

Coffee badging is a modern twist to the clock-in and clock-out mentality.

Here, employees make sure that their presence is felt and acknowledged. It is one way people are showing a preference for flexibility and hybrid models over strict work-from-office routines.

CAREER CUSHIONING

The world is changing, and we're all seeking balance. I don't know if everyone is seeking spiritual balance, but work-life balance?

For sure! The pandemic has really taught the world a very different way of looking at life.

Now that people have seen the loss of life so closely, the value of living has increased by leaps and bounds. This is leading to a diminishing rat race mentality.

These trends show that employees now value their dignity, personal space, and time more than ever and will do everything they possibly can to maintain it.

While they want to shift to a more flexible work life, employers don't seem keen.

In my opinion, it's a delicate balance that needs to be carefully reached.

While the onus of productivity and completion of tasks lies entirely on employees, the onus of having faith is on the employer. In scenarios where both exist, hybrid models can flourish.

Anyhow, one tip-off on either scale will cause great discourse. This article only mentions how people are functioning in uncertain post-pandemic workplaces.

But, how you, as an employee, strike a good work-life routine is on you.

Whether you resort to one of these trends, find a new job, become a freelancer, or become a yogi who has renounced everything, it's entirely your call!

As I mentioned before, 2023 saw many companies laying off their workforce. It is pertinent to note that a lot of these layoffs were sudden and entailed no notice to the employees. In many cases, there was no severance also. It led to a constant fear in the minds of the employees, especially those who worked in such industries.

The result? People decided to get one step ahead of the curve. In 2023, many employees who still had jobs started upskilling, refining their resumes, and networking. All of this was to ensure that they had an alternative in the event they lost their job. Working towards securing another job gave people a cushion in case of being laid off and gave them an edge over those who had no preparations.

COFFEE BADGING

It is the latest trend that emerged in 2023.

This trend was largely a result of power-play

While the onus of productivity and completion of tasks lies entirely on employees, the onus of having faith is on the employer.

Hybrid models can flourish only in scenarios where a balance between the two exists

25 | LIFESTYLE

Meditation and its different types In a world where we all are rushing to fulfil our goals, we often forget that true fulfilment comes only from inner peace and that is where meditation becomes the strongest tool Sahiba Chadha Vaid

A

few years ago, when I heard the word meditation, I thought it was a practice that only monks were capable of acing. It got me wondering how can someone like me sit for such a long time and practice stillness.

I never thought of meditation and the fact that it could change my life. Maybe even you never thought of doing the same, but if you read this feature, you will understand what drove me to include meditation in my routine and how important it is.

"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear," said Rumi. In Tibetan, meditation means, "to become familiar with the mind". Here, I am referring to the mind as the brain in action and the way it controls all parts of the body.

When you meditate, you become familiar with your mind — with what you are thinking, how you are feeling, and how you act or react.

Meditation is a great tool for self-observation and self-development.

It helps you observe, control, and change

how your mind functions. When you meditate, you go from one brain wave to another. By practising well at each level, you move on to the next deeper level.

Here are the different brain waves our brain comes across during the meditative process – Delta, Theta, Alpha, and Beta.

harness the power of creative imagination from your subconscious mind. For example, you just came from the office, and you remember you still have some pending tasks to do. So, you sit on a couch, close your eyes and relax before you can get back to work.

Delta brain wave

The stage where you do not have access to your subconscious mind. As you read this article, you are most likely in the beta wave. Your brain is processing this data and interpreting it based on what you know and believe.

It is the deep sleep state where there's little brain activity. It is why a newborn cannot remain awake for more than a few minutes.

Theta brain wave

It is a state where you are half awake and half asleep. This is where you connect with your subconscious mind.

Whatever you tell yourself goes directly to your subconscious mind and creates beliefs.

Many scientists, including Albert Einstein, used to go into this state to find solutions for research.

Alpha brain wave

It is a state where you are conscious but still able to

Beta brain Wave

On a daily basis, you enter into all these brain waves without meditating — you get up from the delta state and then enter into theta state when you go to your washroom or hold your phone. When you open your phone and check your email, you are in an alpha state. As you see any escalation from the office, your brain jumps to the beta wave.

Now, you are conscious.

LIFESTYLE | 26

When the day ends, you go back into the delta state again slowly by entering into alpha from beta then to theta and finally into the delta wave, where you fall asleep.

Benefits of meditating

Now that you know what meditation is and the associated levels of brain activity in the meditative process, I would like to throw some light on its benefits: Mindfulness Improved focus Lower blood pressure Increased self-awareness Better sleep Better creativity Relaxed mind Improved heart rate

Here are different types of meditation you can try: Deep breathing

Sit in a comfortable position. Make sure you have no distractions around you for the next few minutes. Inhale deeply through your nose for four seconds, and as you inhale, feel the breath passing through your chest.

Hold your breath for three seconds and feel it ticking around your stomach and reaching your lungs. Exhale slowly through your mouth for seven seconds. Do this for one week, then start doing it as if you are inhaling confidence and blessings and exhaling any tension you are holding in your brain or body. Repeat the cycle for five minutes daily. Allow yourself to fully relax and let go. You will see amazing changes in your body and mind. You can do this anytime in a day to relax yourself.

Deep breathing with affirmations

Sit in a comfortable position. Make sure you are not doing it where you sleep. Start with a few cycles of deep breathing, then recite some positive affirmations in your mind like: "I am awesome", "I am blessed", "I am enough", "I am bold", "I can do anything", etc. to rewire your subconscious mind.

Take a pause between your affirmations.

Repeat each affirmation at least three times.

You can do this once you get up to start your day on a positive note.

eyes and look around. You are ready to feel better.

Gratitude meditation

Creative visualisation

A grateful heart is always close to the creative forces of the universe, causing countless blessings to flow towards it. You can do this meditation either in the morning or before you go to bed.

Close your eyes and start with deep breathing.

After five or six deep breathing cycles, focus on all your body parts one after another, and pay your gratitude for that.

Gently start with your feet, then your legs, moving up to your thighs, hips, lower stomach, heart, chest, arms, neck, back, fingers, face, forehead, and finally your head and hair. Perhaps, you might feel it's monotonous, but it's not when you start doing it. Gradually, you will stop focusing on time and enjoy the meditation. It is the most impactful meditation if you are going through any health issue.

Heart consciousness meditation

Emotions are the driving force of our lives.

However, many people keep on suppressing their emotions. Manifesting dreams actively is fantastic but suppressing emotions in the process is definitely not. If that is something you do, then hang on, you need to change the pattern. To start letting an emotion go from your mind and body, you must address it, else it will get bigger and it will consume all your energy. Here is a quick meditation you can do for the same.

Start with deep breathing. Do it seven to eight times or more if you want to enter into your subconscious mind. Go back to the situation where that emotion came from.

Keep your right hand on your heart and feel the heartbeats. Consciously start visualising and see how to better that situation or you could have been at that moment.

Do it for one or two minutes only.

Now open your eyes and say, "I got this".

Affirm, "I am letting go of all the emotions that are not serving me. I am good. I feel good". Close your eyes again and repeat this affirmation three times. Count to five loudly in your mind and slowly open your

Visualisation is one of the most important techniques for self-development. You can meditate and visualise at the same time.

Here is how you can start. Lie down or sit down comfortably where you can stay focused. Start easily and slowly with deep breathing for at least a few minutes. Do not open your eyes or try to check the clock, as it will break your momentum.

After that, create a picture of your dream or goal in your mind that you want to achieve.

Make your visualisations large and bold. Hold it for two minutes in the eye of your mind and feel the joy and happiness it will bring for you once you accomplish it in real. Whatever you are seeing and using right now must have also been a part of someone's creative visualisation.

It is the simplest and most effective form of meditation where you can transform yourself and move towards your dream.

Do it before you sleep, as your subconscious mind works for 24 hours. You are more productive by doing 15 minutes of visualisation than 16 hours of hard labour.

Initially, you will find it difficult to stay focused, but gradually you will learn.

So, don't break your consistency. Spare out 10-15 minutes, and use it to improve your quality of life. Make it your lifestyle and do it in the same way mentioned above.

Start the first week with deep breathing, next week shift to deep breathing with affirmations. Begin gratitude meditation in the third week. Whenever you feel any unwanted emotion, do heart consciousness meditation. And when you feel comfortable, include creative visualisation in the routine.

When you will continue your practice and analyse your body, mind, and emotions, you will become a more centred person.

In this fast-paced world, the ability to be aware and true to yourself is the only way to protect your mental and physical well-being. Meditation will help you lead a mindful journey where you can decide your fate.

29 | COVER STORY

World Cancer Care team with former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

Dhaliwal with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Aagainst WARRIOR cancer: empowering through awareness

World Cancer Care team with Indian politician Nitin Gadkari

World Cancer Care charity drive

COVER STORY | 30

Vidhi Arya

I

n a world eclipsed by a fast-paced rhythm, where people are going about their lives in a rush, there exist individuals who dedicate themselves to making this world a better place for all.

One such person who has committed his life to wage a war against one of the most daunting adversaries humanity faces — cancer — is Mr. Kulwant Singh Dhaliwal.

As a beacon of hope and resilience in the realm of cancer awareness, it is evident that his commitment is beyond the boundaries of conventional advocacy. He has become the heart and soul of a movement that seeks to transform the narrative surrounding this relentless disease by making people aware of the fact that if detected early, cancer can be cured and lives can be saved.

Leaving behind a business, Dhaliwal embarked on a mission to shatter the silence and stigma around cancer. His aim is to empower people to fight against the disease through knowledge as he believes that while cancer is curable, ignorance kills.

Beyond the traditional confines of awareness campaigns, Dhaliwal employs innovation and creativity to engage communities, making connections that amplify the resonance of their message.

He ensures that his service is not just limited to spreading awareness but also serving the community by providing free testing and medicines. This is his journey of compassion,

Dhaliwal with chairman of National Commission of Minorities of India, Sardar Iqbal Singh Lalpura

courage, and an unyielding commitment to transforming the narrative — one that revolves not only around survival but with consistent pursuit of a world where cancer is met head-on, with awareness as its ally.

Tell us about your early life.

I was born in India in the village of Bir Rauke in Moga, Punjab. I completed my schooling and higher studies in India.

After earning a Bachelor's degree in Arts, I relocated to the United Kingdom at the age of 27. Establishing a career as a businessman in the retail and wholesale of fashion clothing, I worked for nearly two decades before retiring at the age of 47.

Since then, my entire focus has shifted towards a meaningful cause. I have dedicated my life to spreading awareness about cancer.

All I want to do is make a positive impact on the world and make it easier for people to understand that cancer is curable if detected early. Every day, I aim to contribute to the well-being of people through awareness.

What motivated you to wage a war against cancer?

My motivation to fight against cancer comes from my personal experience.

My mother was a cancer patient, and I lost her to cancer. Soon after that, I also lost my father-in-law to cancer. After losing two of

31 | COVER STORY

my family members to this disease, I knew that I needed to do something that made it easier for others to deal with this deadly disease. Hence, at the age of 47, I took early retirement, and I dedicated myself towards the service of humanity.

My journey started with associating myself with several charities that worked around the cause in the UK. I used to raise funds for cancer patients and used to spread awareness about the disease through conventional methods. Back in 2002, in association with several charities, I started walking to spread awareness. I used to walk nearly 200 miles every month, to raise funds for cancer research. For the past 17 years, I have completely dedicated my life to the cause. At present, I am the global ambassador of World Cancer Care.

What is the goal of World Cancer Care?

World Cancer Care is a charitable organisation based out of Punjab, India.

We are a group of working professionals and individuals who have come together with a common goal. We tirelessly work towards the noble cause of raising awareness about the disease and helping with its early detection amongst people living in all states of India. We organise camps across the country to educate people about cancer — be it prevention or early detection.

World Cancer Care is the only cancer organisation in the world that provides free-of-cost detection of around eight types of cancer. We believe that those who do not have the knowledge or the means to get detection and treatment also deserve a chance at life. That can be possible only if someone helps them. Now, how do we do it? We organise camps at different locations

across the globe. We have our own state-ofthe-art mobile units and equipment.

The camps are open to everyone. Anyone can walk up to these camps and get a check-up done. We test for nearly eight types of cancer that include breast cancer through mammography, cervical cancer through pap smear and PSA for prostate cancer.

We also test for throat or oral cancer and conduct bone density tests because if these tests reveal low bone density, the chances of bone cancer are high.

Other than this, we also have a lab on wheels for the most serious cancer, blood cancer.

It is said that awareness is the first step to empowerment. How do you think it holds for cancer?

I believe when it comes to cancer, awareness is empowering. It is because the disease itself is curable, and it is usually the ignorance that kills. Unfortunately,

most people are unable to recognise the early signs of cancer due to a lack of knowledge and awareness. So, even if their bodies are giving signals, they often ignore them. We all do that... when we do not feel too well, we resort to a home-ready or decide to wait for some time before going to the doctor. However, if one knows the early signs of cancer and is aware and alert, this illness can be detected at the early stages.

And, if it gets detected early, it can be cured.

Prevention and detection are both crucial. Cure is the third and the last resort.

Other than early signs, there is a general lack of awareness about the prevention of cancer.

Honestly, I believe that the first step towards prevention starts in our kitchens. The quality of food, the fruits and vegetables we eat is very important. Be careful that you eat clean fruits and vegetables and try to eat as much organic food as you can.

Pesticides and fertilisers have a role in

COVER STORY | 32

breeding cancer. So, keep your kitchen clean to remain fit. Certain kinds of cancers are usually due to lifestyle choices, such as consumption of alcohol or smoking.

When we already know the result, why indulge in these things?

The next step is detection, paying attention to what your body tells you.

The last stage is cure, being in the hospital and following all protocols. However, prevention is always better than cure.

Cancer is a big problem all over the world. It is rapidly increasing. The WHO says that every one in four females across the globe will either have breast cancer or cervical cancer.

How can individuals contribute to the global fight against cancer?

You know, when people think of community service, they resort to distributing food and water to the less privileged. I believe while that is important, these people need medicines for survival and revival.

Medicines can give them a better life, a life free of diseases and illnesses. So, at World Cancer Care, we also distribute them for free. Not food, not desserts, but medicines.

Moving on, when people think of service, they also often donate to temples, churches, gurudwaras, or mosques, all of which are great. However, we should think ahead of the curve and indulge in service by distributing medicines and other necessary supplies.

Service is boundless, spreading knowledge by way of leaflets, videos, and camps is all service and should be taken seriously.

In India, there are many holy places

to offer prayers, but there are hardly any hospitals for the less fortunate groups to get affordable treatments. In several other countries across the globe, healthcare is free, so it is easier for people to get detected for cancer, and if, unfortunately, they have cancer, they can avail free treatment.

Sadly, this is not true for India.

I think 95% of the donations made by people are for holy places — organising langars (meals), reconstructions, or donating fans, lights, etc. There are many ways in which people donate to holy places, and they get recognised for it, too. All of this is undoubtedly essential, but at the same time, it is imperative to donate towards healthcare. We do see people donating fans for gurudwaras, but who is donating fans for hospitals? That is service, too. Isn't it?

We need to change the direction of our donations. Donate for sure, but donate at both places. When my children were born in England, we didn't have to pay a penny. So, what we did instead is we donated towards the hospitals. It helped us express our happiness and serve society, too.

Service to the destitute is the ultimate service to the god.

If everyone contributes even a little to the hospitals, the infrastructure will improve by leaps and bounds. We live

There are many ways in which people donate to holy places, and get recognised for it. This is essential, but it is imperative to donate towards healthcare also

in a world where not just weddings, but funerals are also excessively lavish.

You are also the chairman of Sant Singh Dhaliwal Trust, tell us more about it?

There is cancer that affects the human body, and then there is social cancer that deteriorates society and makes it hollow.

I set up the Sant Singh Dhaliwal Trust in 1991 to fight the social evils prevailing in the world. I named the trust after my beloved father. The aim is to eradicate issues such as female foeticide, child marriages, and lack of education.

Through this trust, we have given a ray of hope to many girls by educating them and teaching them life skills that will help them become self-sufficient and independent.

We provide uniforms, books, and stationery to kids who can't afford it. The trust has a simple yet impactful belief that when we give someone education and skills, we help them earn a living and eradicate poverty from their life, making them truly independent.

A message for our readers.

The world is a beautiful place but we as humans, have never counted our blessings and done irreparable damage to our environment. We have ruined our water and our air. There are many extremely polluted cities where we can not even breathe easily. All our deeds are coming back at us.

The kind of polluted air we breathe in and the kind of water we drink, a lot of it can be cancerous in the long run. We need to mend our ways and start working towards making this planet a better place.

35 | LEISURE

FOOD STYLING &

PHOTOGRAPHY BUILD YOUR PROP COLLECTION When you get behind the lens to capture the perfect shot of a dish, the surrounding props and set-up play a crucial role in bringing the photo to life.

Read along to know how small elements can make a huge difference in the final output

Dr. Manjula Vijh

H

ave you ever heard any story with only the lead actor and no supporting cast?

Whether it's in our childhood story tales or modern-day movies, the supporting star cast plays a significant role along with the lead actors and actresses.

We can extend this concept to food photography and styling too. To create a food story, we need supporting elements to make our hero dish shine even more.

Food props and backdrops help add details and create interest in our compositions.

Choosing the right props and colours in our food story can bring our frame to life.

The question often arises: how do we begin building our prop collection?

While selecting props, it's crucial to keep your style in mind and consider the message you want to convey to your audience.

When commencing a career in this field, it could be overwhelming to see the work of other creators and look at their prop collection.

As a beginner, you should look around the elements you already have and get started. Begin with what is available to you and then slowly build your prop collection, as it is a valuable investment in this career.

Let's discuss the items you can find at home and then explore more fancy props you can buy to enhance your collection.

Photography backdrops and surfaces

The first thing that you choose is the surface on which you place your food and other props while shooting. When shooting from a straight-on or a three-quarter angle, you'll need a background to support your frame.

As a beginner, you

LEISURE | 36

can use craft papers available at craft stores.

However, these have the disadvantage of getting spoiled during the shoot.

Another affordable option is to use printed vinyl sheets that you can wipe clean, roll up and store after you finish your shoot.

An advantage of vinyl sheets is their portability, which makes them easier to carry. You can find various colourful and printed options available these days.

If you are willing to spend a little more, some vendors create and sell hand-painted and textured surfaces on wood and particle boards. You can also create your own photography surfaces by using DIY techniques. The main thing to keep in mind is that the surfaces and backgrounds should be matte to avoid light reflection.

Choosing your props

There are some things you must consider while choosing or purchasing props.

An important guideline is to avoid investing in shiny pieces. You should pick matte-finish crockery as it will not reflect light hitting the subject.

The next important thing is the colour palette. While selecting colours, it is a good idea to start with whites and blacks.

As you grow your collection with time, consider investing in neutral and earthy shades of ceramics. Colours such as beige, brown, off-white, grey, and other pastel shades can complement several dishes.

If you want to create a colourful and vibrant shot, you can surely opt for bold colours.

Then comes the texture. What adds life to your photograph is the texture.

Studio pottery, like handmade ceramics with some colour speckles and imperfections, creates visual interest in the image.

When choosing patterns, opt for smaller dots, plain lines, or florals, as long as they will not overshadow the food. Ultimately, what makes a prop timeless is that it is versatile and how many times you can use it without getting monotonous.

Serveware

You can experiment with an array of crockery, but to begin with, invest in basics like neutral-coloured ceramic dinner and quarter plates, salad/soup bowls, some platters, and a few dip and pinch bowls. Tea/coffee cups and small jugs also come in handy while composing a shot.

Apart from table crockery, you can use cutlery items like salad/dessert servers, spoons, forks, and butter knives.

When shooting drinks, make sure you use glassware that is smaller and has intricate detailing. Drinks look best when you use some backlighting.

Hence, crystal-cut glasses look impressive.

You can also use small glass bottles or jars to fill in with things.

It's preferred to have a variety of styles in your prop collection. Old, vintage cutlery from your grandmother's kitchen is always a treasure to keep. You can use rustic statement pieces to shoot traditional food and evoke an old vintage feel. Worn-out pieces work best as they are not shiny and won't cause unnecessary reflections.

Modern-day crockery, wooden bowls and platters, chinaware, and terracotta utensils offer a variety of options.

While choosing the crockery for support, always keep in mind that these should not overpower the food you are shooting.

It's not advisable to use anything with bold patterns that can be distracting to the viewer's eye. Handmade ceramics are quite in trend these days. Their beauty lies in their imperfections that add an organic feel to the picture.

Linens and papers

Matte linens add a character to a food photograph. As simple as it may sound, adding fabrics elevates your food story and creates a sense of movement in the picture.

Fabrics add texture and layer when placed beneath the photo subject.

Commonly used linens that you can find around you are classic kitchen napkins, tea towels, table mats or covers, cheesecloth, cocktail napkins, frayed edge napkins, burlap, florals, etc. In the same way, adding paper can change the vibe of the food story. Newspapers, crumpled parchment paper, both brown and white, can be effectively used to create a scene, wrap burgers, fries, and other foods as well as add an extra touch to your baked dishes.

Other accessories

There is no limit when it comes to styling your food using props. You can get as creative as you want, as long as the props don't upstage your food. One of the commonly used props is a wooden

cutting/chopping board. Worn-out wooden boards add character, layering, and texture to your photographs. Using wood can give your frame a rustic or modern look, depending on what other props you are using. Similarly, you can also use stone platters/boards in marble or granite as a base for your dish. One can also incorporate bakeware or cookware that looks aged and adds a rustic story to the picture.

The use of metallic cooling racks, baking trays, ramekins, cast iron skillets, metal/wooden boxes or tiffins can transport your audience to a real-life imagination.

Measuring cups and spoons are best suited for recipe or process shots. Similarly, you can add cake tins, pie dishes, and vintage utensils to the food story.

You can also use other storytellers like metal sieves, icing sugar dusters, cake servers, pepper mills, small graters, mortar pestles, vintage scissors, ladles, wooden racks, etc. to add creative interpretations to your image.

When shooting festive food items like sweets and desserts, you can use candles, tea lights, fairy lights, flowers, laces, and ribbons to create a happy and joyful vibe to your story. You can also use some elements to add layers and height to your shot, like a cake stand or a pile of old books. You can also add real/faux greens to give a pop of colour to the picture.

If you really want to go extensive, you can also invest in faux wooden windows to create an elaborate shot depicting a kitchen scene or a tabletop scene.

Don't forget that ingredients used in the recipe can also be wonderful props: sugar, whole spices, dry fruits, and more can add great texture.

Prop collection is a gradual process and does not happen overnight. The key takeaway is that one should invest in props that are timeless, universal, and always look beautiful when used. Initially, you can start with elements you already possess and then think more creatively about how to expand.

Whether you explore thrift stores, street-side vendors, or big retail outlets, you can find multiple props to suit your style and requirements. As you progress in your journey, your prop collection will become one of the most valuable assets you have ever owned.

39 | HEALTH

RESPECTING B DEPRESSION:

Sahiba Chadha Vaid

IT'S NOT JUST "BEING SAD"

The world might be a tough place to navigate but what is even tougher to deal with is a mental health ailment.

While depression largely remains a taboo even today, mindfulness with our words can change the narrative

efore we talk about depression at length, I request the readers to view this feature with a clean slate approach as your misconceptions and stereotypes around the term 'depression' might be shattered.

Depression, a commonly used term, is often not used in the correct manner.

If someone couldn't clear a job interview, they would say they're in depression.

Another individual who got rejected by their crush, got depressed. One couldn't go on a trip, they're in depression.

Someone who got scolded by their parents, or broke up with a partner, or scored poorly in their exams; would conveniently say, "I am depressed."

Does this sound familiar? Isn't this

HEALTH | 40

how we commonly use or shall I say, misuse the term?

How am I so certain that the term is being misused? Let me share something that happened a few months ago that gave me clarity. A couple of months ago, I lost my only sibling. Many people came for the funeral and last rites, and so did a cousin of ours. After she went back home, she was sad about her favourite sister's demise and she kept quiet and aloof.

Seeing this, her mother called me and said, "she has gone into depression ever since the demise". Very abruptly, I had to cut her short and impart some knowledge about the word and how it's different from sadness. After a few days, my cousin resumed her routine life, went to work, hung out with friends, and even went out for festive celebrations.

It was evident that she was sad and her sorrow state was exaggerated as depression!

Have you also experienced someone casually quoting the word "depression"?

I am cent per cent sure you must have.

Being a mental health coach, I come across a lot of people who use the word nonchalantly without giving two thoughts.

Let us see how the two terms — sadness and depression — are different.

SADNESS

Sadness is a normal reaction to a loss, disappointment, problem, loneliness, or any other difficult situation. When a person is sad, they often have a specific reason for their emotional state, such as the loss of a loved one, a setback, or a challenging life event. Sadness tends to be a proportionate reaction to such circumstances and usually subsides as time passes or as the situation improves.

Sadness is generally a fleeting emotion.

It does not typically interfere with a person's ability to function in their daily life.

While sadness is a legitimate and valid emotional response, it is essential to differentiate it from clinical depression to ensure that those who are struggling with a mental health issue, receive the support and understanding they need.

DEPRESSION

Depression, on the other hand, is a mental illness affecting the way one understands and relates to oneself and the things around

Sadness is generally a fleeting emotion. It does not typically interfere with a person's ability to function in their daily life.

Depression, on the other hand, is not an emotion but a cluster of signs and symptoms that require medical assistance as it is a severe mental health condition them. It is not an emotion but a cluster of signs and symptoms that require medical assistance. It is certainly not a low mood or a lack of interest; that is sadness.

Depression is a severe and persistent mental health condition characterised by a profound and enduring sense of despair, hopelessness, and emotional numbness. It often lacks an identifiable trigger and can persist for an extended period, typically lasting for weeks, months, or even years. People with this mental illness may experience a range of debilitating symptoms, find difficulties in carrying out regular day-to-day tasks, and even have suicidal tendencies.

Before calling yourself depressed, visit a counsellor or a psychiatrist to understand whether it really is depression or not.

Symptoms of depression include: N oticeable signs of prolonged hopelessness and sadness D epressed mood that lasts for most of the day, nearly every day, for weeks A loss of interest in normal activities for an extended amount of time S leeplessness or increased amounts of sleep that affects normal schedules C onsistent tiredness and low energy Feelings

of worthlessness or excessive guilt on a daily basis I nability to concentrate or make simple decisions R ecurrent suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts or plans

PROBLEMS WITH CASUAL USAGE OF "DEPRESSION"

The informal usage of the word can undermine the experiences of those who genuinely struggle with depression.

It's essential to recognise that it is not merely a synonym for feeling low but a severe mental health issue that requires

understanding and empathy. When people plainly use the term "depression" to describe their fleeting feelings of sadness, it can trivialise the experiences of individuals living with clinical depression. Using the term to describe mild, short-lived sadness not only misrepresents the condition but can also discourage individuals, who genuinely need help, from seeking assistance.

When society perpetuates the idea that depression is something that everyone experiences from time to time, it creates a stigma around the illness, making it harder for those who are truly suffering to reach out for support. It's important to remember that people with depression may already feel isolated and alone, and this casual use of the term can exacerbate those feelings.

Using "depression" unconcernedly can undermine the efforts of mental health advocates who work tirelessly to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with this mental health condition.

It sends the message that depression is not a significant concern, and this can deter people from supporting initiatives aimed at helping those affected by the illness.

Depression and sadness may be interlinked but definitely are not the same. As stated earlier, sadness is an emotion that everyone experiences, often after stressful or upsetting life events. Depression is an overpowering and ongoing mental health disorder that can drastically impact on daily living.

Specific triggers will often cause sadness, whereas depression may have no identifiable cause. Sadness is a part of depression but more temporary in nature. So, please be mindful when you carelessly use the word depression for sadness. There's a huge difference between them.

In a world that's already not receptive towards mental ailments and where every day, people are striving to spread awareness, informally using any mental health term, be it depression, anxiety, or OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) can have far-reaching effects.

It makes it more difficult for those suffering as it diminishes the seriousness that mental health merits. With slight mindfulness, we can make our little contribution to making the world a better place for all those who are silently enduring the ordeal every day.

Wedding planning and the psychology behind it

A wedding, with all the bling and joy, is a result of tedious planning and since several factors play a part, understanding them deeply can help you ease into the process Astha Anand

A

wedding is not just a union of two individuals but also of the two families. It is an amalgamation of different cultures, traditions, and beliefs. As the peak season of "will you marry me?" and "I do" is upon us, let us decipher more about what goes behind the gala affair.

It is no wonder that this period is a mix of both love and chaos. If you are all set to get married in the coming times, be sure that everyone around you will tell you this is the best time of your life. However,

be prepared as planning a wedding comes with a lot of stress and pressure.

I have been a spectator to various weddings, both for close family and far-off relatives. As a psychologist and therapist, I have been able to observe the behavioural patterns of those involved and deduce the driving force behind them. Plenty of factors come into play when it comes to how you plan and execute a wedding. Let's unfold them and try to understand the psychology behind wedding planning.

MONEY INVOLVED IN THE PLANNING

When it's about budgeting a wedding,

it's almost impossible to stay under the mark. The amount of money spent mostly shoots up the fixed limit. Specifically in the Indian setup, the general expectation is of a "big fat wedding". These expectations push one to go for everything larger than life and spend money on things that are not necessary or will not be of any actual use in the wedding process or after the wedding is over. Small or big weddings, the pressure to make it the best wedding ultimately falls upon the bride, groom, and their families.

With the introduction and heavy impact of social media in today's time, the modern generation is extremely influenced. People want to follow the trends and be a part of the bandwagon, specifically with the perfection one sees on reels, TikTok, and Instagram.

Because of this pressure, both online and

LEISURE | 42

When it is about budgeting a wedding, it is almost impossible to stay under the mark. The amount of money spent mostly shoots up the fixed limit. Mostly, it is spent on things that are not necessary or will not be of any use in the wedding process or after the wedding is over it off quite nicely. With proper planning, a well-thought and revised budget, tight lists, expectation management between families, and the right wedding planners — it is possible.

FAMILY POLITICS

BY RELATIVES

from people around, the bride and groom end up disbursing huge sums of money on priests, customs, guest list, exquisite decor, delectable food spread, and expensive clothes.

When it comes to money, it does not only involve the wedding venue and clothes; it goes beyond that.

Weddings involve catering for food, a DJ/wedding band for the first dance, a great party, and a photographer for capturing all the moments from the best day of your life, and not to forget — the wedding dress and rings. Every girl dreams of getting dressed in a dreamy lehenga or the best white gown — an outfit that casts a magic spell on every spectator at the wedding while she walks down the aisle. Wait, it does not end there.

You have flower decorations, lighting to

focus on, the bar to look after, and ensuring that the guests are being looked after. The list goes on and on.

And if the wedding wasn't enough, the expense to go on a honeymoon is also one to be wary about. These are some of the concerns that add up to the stress.

Managing money matters for a wedding can be as hard as finding yourself a partner or, as we call it — a soulmate. Being able to execute your wedding while staying on a budget is tough, but some people do pull

As I mentioned, a wedding means the union of two individuals, along with their families. It is one of the best things to happen when two families get together to become one with all the love and celebration. However, it doesn't always end up in joy and celebration throughout.

Things sometimes get nasty when the two families create chaos and get involved in politics. More often than not, families end up in a soup by bringing up memories, picking fights, and stirring up different old family dynamics. Weddings definitely bring families together, but it also brings together a lot of behind-thescenes family drama.

I have often seen fathers tend to get protective about their daughters, mothers tend to get jealous about their sons, and other relatives simply get over-critical about different rituals, decisions around traditions, money, and guest list. All of this can lead to distress for the two most important people at a wedding — the bride and the groom.

In the course of wedding planning, you must leave aside these childish and petty feelings. Be the better person and join the union to celebrate one cause — the bride, groom, and their wedding.

The couple as it is has to endure a lot during this process. Adding to the stress with drama, tantrums, unreasonable demands, petty looks, and nasty comments will only

43 | LEISURE

make things worse for them. A family's support means a lot during such times.

CLOTHES TO WEAR

Since the dawn of social media, the world has become extremely concerned about how one dresses and looks. Every step of planning now revolves around what one can post on Instagram, and what will get the most attention. It has become almost imperative to ensure that you are at your best dressed and in sync with the trends online and in the markets when it comes to clothing. Wedding wear is the most expensive when it comes to shopping. The range of these clothes starts from thousands and goes to hundred thousands. It is safe to say that it does not stop people from raging and buying all of the fancy wedding attires.

Now, when we talk about wedding wear — it is not just "the dress".

Wedding wear involves clothes for every occasion. It includes matching jewellery, matching shoes, bags, and whatnot.

The list goes on, and it is almost never-ending. The pressure to buy expensive stuff for the wedding that you only get to wear once is high but also unreasonable.

It is important to understand your budget when you step out for shopping.

Nowadays, there are so many alternative options in the market. The bride and others in the family can rent wedding wear at one-fourth the cost and save a fortune.

However, some families believe in buying all new stuff for the wedding and go for multiple trials. Sometimes, due to the stress, the bride/groom tends to binge eat or even not eat at all. These triggered eating habits can make them gain or lose a lot of weight. As a result, the clothes might actually not fit well at the end. That is why ensuring that the bride and groom are not under a lot of pressure, are eating healthy, and taking good care of their health is a massive concern that needs to be addressed.

TAKE A BREAK AND UNWIND

If you are a bride-to-be or a groom-to-be, here are some things you can do to take a break and destress. These simple steps will help you truly live in the moment while also participating in the hustle of planning the festivities:

Ensure that you don't leave your true self behind and get sucked into the process of making arrangements. Having a sense of individuality during the entire period will help you have a peaceful state of mind

INDULGE IN SELF-CARE

Proper exercise and hitting the gym are just surface-level self-care to look good.

But to feel good, one must eat healthy food.

It is important to have a good, balanced diet during the wedding prep time.

Give yourself some time to meditate during the day and unwind.

Getting adequate sleep is also a must to ensure you get all the rest you need. It will help you be active each day and participate fully in the preparations. Apart from this, investing in good skincare and body care is equally important. Take time out to go to a spa, go for different procedures for your skin to enhance your glow and make it feel healthy inside out.

FIND SOME ME TIME

It is important to take time out for yourself and do things unrelated to wedding planning and shopping. Go to a dance class, go swimming with friends, read a book, go to brunch with friends. Do anything that you would do if there was no pressure of planning a wedding over your head.

Ensure that you don't leave your true self behind and get sucked into the process

of making arrangements. It might seem tempting to drop all hobbies and quit your job to focus completely on this. However, to have a sense of individuality during this entire process is equally important.

These things will help you have a perspective and a peaceful state of mind.

TALK IT OUT

My first advice would be to go for therapy. It is the best way to unwind, talk without pressure or judgment, and get a clear perspective on tackling everything from budgets, choices, family politics, pressure from relatives, etc. You can even talk to a trusted friend or family member, or even your fiancé or fiancée, for that matter. I know it can sound intimidating, but talking helps. Getting things off your system can give you that much-needed relief and you can focus on the big day.

All in all, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help — whether it is stress related to the wedding, or it is a last-minute decision, or it is about the transition to a new house and leaving your comfort zone behind. Therapy can be a great resource at this time and support you when you need it the most — when no one else seems to understand your situation.

A therapist can help you feel validated, understand your feelings and aid in providing coping strategies.

Help is always available. Lastly, enjoy this process and soak as much as you can.

It's your wedding and you must make the most of it. Have fun and make sure to do things as per your convenience.

45 | LEISURE

EMBRACING THE SPARTAN REVOLUTION WHY REMOTE WORK IS THE WAY FORWARD With remote work settling into the mainstream, what was unfathomable for years is now a reality. While employees value freedom more than ever, will companies still allow this model?

LEISURE | 46

Apurva Menon

I

n a world that's constantly evolving, where change is the only constant, the way we work has undergone a transformation. Gone are the days of being tethered to a desk from nine-to-five, punching the clock in a sterile office.

We've entered the era of remote work, a revolution that's altering the landscape of our professional lives. And let me tell you, it's not just a passing trend, it's the future we've all been waiting for.

Picture this: trading in the suffocating commute for a few steps to your home office, overlooking a serene garden or perhaps lounging at your favourite coffee spot with a laptop. Remote work isn't just about flexibility; it's a lifestyle upgrade. There's a simplicity to it, an ease that's akin to the Spartan way of living.

Stripping away the unnecessary, focusing on what truly matters: productivity, autonomy, and balance.

First things first, let's talk about the big R: Remote Work. It's more than just a fad. It's a game-changer, a paradigm shift.

No longer confined to cubicles or corner offices, this model thrives on liberation.

It's about the freedom to structure your day as you see fit, without the overbearing presence of an office manager breathing down your neck.

IMPACT OF REMOTE WORK ON EMPLOYEES Flexibility

The allure of remote work lies in its flexibility as you're in control of your environment. Your cat can keep you company, your favourite tunes can blast in the background, and you're free to structure your day to align with your personal rhythms. No need to adhere strictly to the nine-to-five shackles; you can work when you're most productive. Morning person?

Power through tasks at dawn.

Night owl? Burn the midnight oil.

It's totally your call.

Productivity

It's not just about convenience, it's a productivity game-changer. Studies have shown that remote workers often deliver more in less time. Without the daily commute, office distractions, and endless meetings, the focused hours can yield far more fruitful results. When you're in your element, free from unnecessary interruptions, your output often soars.

Isolation

Sure, remote work isn't all rainbows and butterflies. There are challenges too.

The most common concern? The isolation.

Humans are social creatures, after all.

However, the Spartan way isn't about isolation, it's about choice. Remote work doesn't mean cutting ties with the world, it means redesigning your connection to it. With technology as our ally, we're more connected than ever. Video calls, instant messaging, and virtual water coolers keep us linked, even across continents.

It's a modern twist on human connection, fostering relationships beyond the traditional office small talk.

The blurred lines

Another concern often raised is the blurred line between work and personal life.

When your office is steps away from your living room, it's easy to slip into the trap of endless work hours. But, here's the secret, it's about setting boundaries. The Spartan philosophy emphasises balance. Create a designated workspace, set working hours, and when the clock strikes the end of your workday, power down. Reclaim your personal time, guilt-free.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF REMOTE WORK

One of the most underrated aspects of remote work — the environment. The commute, the energy-consuming buildings, and the

Gone are the days of being tethered to a desk from nine-to-five, punching the clock in a sterile office.

We've entered the era of remote work, a revolution that's altering the landscape of our professional lives

excessive use of paper — all contribute to our carbon footprint. Remote work cuts this significantly. Fewer cars on the road mean reduced emissions. Less reliance on physical office space means smaller, energy-efficient buildings. Embracing remote work isn't just beneficial for individuals, it's a win for the planet too.

THE IMPACT ON BUSINESS

Remote work isn't just an employee benefit, it's a game-changer for companies as well.

Beyond the cost-saving benefits of reduced office space and overheads, it opens up the talent pool. Employers are no longer limited by geographical boundaries.

They can scout the best minds from around the world without the constraint of relocation. It's a win-win situation, empowering both employers and employees.

But let's not forget the elephant in the room — the naysayers who believe remote work hampers collaboration and innovation.

I beg to differ. Technology is the bridge.

Collaboration tools, project management software, and video conferencing platforms have revolutionised the way we work together. Brainstorming sessions, creative discussions, and problem-solving activities can all be done effectively in the virtual space.

The Spartan way is about adaptability.

We've adapted our tools to suit our needs, enhancing collaboration, not hindering it. At the end of the day, the best of this model can be brought out by striking a careful balance of trust between the needs of the employers and that of the employees.

In conclusion, the shift towards remote work isn't just a passing trend.

It's the future we're heading towards.

The Spartan way of life, focuses on what's essential, unburdened by unnecessary constraints. It's about embracing freedom, enhancing productivity, and fostering a better work-life balance.

So, let's raise our virtual glasses to the Spartan revolution, to a future where work isn't a place but an activity, a future where flexibility and productivity harmoniously coexist. Remote work isn't just a trend, it's a lifestyle. Trust me, it's a revolution worth being a part of.

49 | LEISURE

SURVIVING A QUARTER-LIFE CRISIS...

Stepping into your mid-20s brings many opportunities in your personal and professional lives. While all of this coming in at once may seem a little daunting, be assured that you are not alone and with some effort, you will sail through Vidhi Arya

R

ecently, I met a few of my friends from school after a very long time. We were all sitting over a few drinks and discussing our lives. Happily chit-chatting about where we are in life and what we are going through.

Over time, we all realised that most of us are trying to figure out ourselves and dealing with a quarter-life crisis in one form or another.

If you haven't heard the term "quarter-life crisis" before, don't worry. I am here to explain what it is, and if you realise you are struggling with it too, read along to know how to deal with it better.

A quarter-life crisis is a phase of uncertainty and confusion that runs in the minds of young adults, typically in the age bracket of 25-35 years. When you find yourself trapped, dissatisfied, and struggling for answers — be it related to your careers, relationships, self-discovery, families, or even finances, you might be going through a quarter-life crisis. But, again, beware and don't use this term too casually.

A crisis is much different than an inconvenience. If you've been struggling with something for a long time, feeling confused, trying to fight it out but still getting no feasible solution, you might be in a soup.

How did you get here?

The age where you are in your late-20s to mid-30s can be tricky. It is a whirlwind of stepping into the real world, where real problems and responsibilities await you.

Till your mid-20s, you're all wrapped in a fuzzy blanket of love and comfort — your parents have your back, and school/ college grades are the biggest worry.

And then bam! Welcome to adulthood!

LEISURE | 50

We are all told that this is the best age, but the reality isn't always as picture-perfect, is it? This is where it gets serious — searching for a job, finding out your goals and career path are not in alignment, embracing a passion, becoming financially independent, navigating a relationship, coping with distancing friendships, etc.

The list can go on, but I would just stop at that. The anxiousness around these things and building a perfect life, leaving no regrets behind, is real. So, if you too are anxious and asking yourselves questions like "Is this what the rest of my life will look like?", "What am I doing with my life?", or "When will I be finally happy?", then continue reading as the solution may be around the corner.

Are your feelings due to quarter-life crisis?

A quarter-life crisis can be due to several reasons depending on different individuals.

Broadly, the crisis usually manifests due to a dissatisfaction with careers, relationships, or self. Navigating these paths at a time when nothing seems to fit right is the dawn of a quarter-life crisis.

When you're going through this phase, you will often find yourself asking the question "What am I doing with my life?"

Reflecting upon a feeling of being unhappy and purposeless, you will often find yourself yearning for a change. Be it finding a new job, finding a new place to move to, or breaking up with a long-standing yet toxic partner, the reasons can be many, but the feeling will be the same.

Fear of missing out (FOMO) and constant comparison with your peers bog you down further during such a time.

When people are unhappy and unsure, they often compare their not-so-perfect lives with the seemingly shiny, happy lives of others. During this phase of your life, you might start feeling that while everyone has their lives sorted, you're still struggling.

If this kind of FOMO or comparison is ruining your mental health, it's a cue.

Lastly, feeling a lack of identity and languishing are the most hard-hitting feelings accompanying a quarter-life crisis. In such a phase, you might often question your beliefs, values, and goals.

While establishing your values and goals is a long, demanding process, you might also feel that life is empty and stagnant.

A quarter-life crisis is a phase of uncertainty and confusion that runs in the minds of young adults. When you find yourself trapped, dissatisfied, and struggling for answers related to your careers, relationships, or life in general, you might be going through a quarter-life crisis Slow growth and a lack of answers can be toiling symptoms of a quarter-life crisis.

What do you do next?

The first step to finding the solution to a problem is accepting that there is a problem. The Instagram saying "delulu is the solulu"(delusion is the solution) seems cool and funny only on the app. It's the last bit of advice that one should take seriously.

If you have been unhappy, not satisfied, and are yearning for a change, start by asking yourself about the root of these feelings. Where exactly is the problem?

Is it your draining career, is it a relationship that is sucking the happiness out of you, is it your dysfunctional family that is paralysing you, or something else? Only when you introspect and accept that something needs alteration, you'll be able to help yourself.

The next step is to accept that as you grow, your belief sets, values, and interests change with time. Often these changes no longer align with the paths you chose earlier in life. Start by being mindful of your feelings and the changes you see in them. Mindfully doing some inner work by regularly engaging in meditation, journalling, and speaking to life coaches and experts can be very useful at such times.

Now, you need to find answers to questions such as what makes you happy, how you picture your future, what are your value sets, what are your goals, what gives you stress and anxiety, etc.

Regular introspection and checking whether your life paths are still in sync with your believes is imperative to remain satisfied. Once you recognise the changes in your values and belief set, you'll be better equipped to decide further.

While you're making efforts to do all the inner work, what you need to stop doing is comparing yourself with others.

One thing you all need to understand, especially the younger lot, is that no one out there is living a perfect life. You never really understand the struggles of a person unless you step into their shoes. What you see on social media is a carefully curated feed that aims to show perfect and happy moments

of a person's life. Take it from me: alot of these moments may also be orchestrated.

Therefore, stop undermining the beauty of your unique journey just because someone else is better at displaying it.

Another thing you need to do is allow yourself to be indecisive and be open to change. In an ever-changing world, the only thing constant is change.

When navigating a quarter-life crisis, it's very natural to be unable to decide the next steps with ease. If you have flickering thoughts or an inclination towards several things, embrace them. Give each of your options considerable thought, and take your time to decide. If you can't make a decision, don't rush. Clarity will come with time.

And, if nothing works and the path ahead seems unclear, don't fret and seek support. Seeking help is a sign of courage and not weakness, as we're often told.

Reach out to a parent, a therapist, or a life-coach, depending upon the issue in question and seek relevant help.

The next time you feel overwhelmed with all the pathways and potholes that lie ahead of you, appreciate the fact that it is in your 20s that you start writing the story of the rest of your life. Every experience will teach you something new and somewhere down the lane, it will come in handy. Don't be afraid to follow your heart and make decisions that bring fulfilment to your life.

Everything said, you are not alone.

There are so many people who are living with a feeling of uncertainty and dissatisfaction. It is very much a part and parcel of adulthood. If life is giving you lemons and you don't know how to make lemonade, you know you can always learn!

Navigating your choices and finding yourself is a crucial part of self-discovery and growth. This battle can help you seek paths leading you to happiness and satisfaction. Be calm, keep going, and most importantly, be compassionate and kind towards yourself. You deserve happiness, and with a little work, especially inner work, you can head to heights where a lovely view awaits.

53 | LEISURE

MASTER THE ART OF

STYLING YOUR HOME Renowned author and interior designer Nate Berkus says, "Your home should tell a story of who you are and be a collection of what you love." While you try to achieve that, here are a few tips that can assist

Dr. Manjula Vijh

I

magine walking into a space that makes you soak in positive vibrations and gives your soul a calming experience. That space is your own home. Your home is beyond walls and furnishings; it is a place that brings you solace. Through the art of styling, you can transform your place and elevate it to the next level.

Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, your home should offer comfort, warmth, and functionality. Well, there is a slight difference between interior decoration and home styling. While interior decoration involves knowledge of layouts, materials, floor plan, etc., home styling is the art of personalising a space according to your own style.

This article will provide insights on home styling and decor to turn your home uniquely yours. You don't have to buy expensive stuff to style your home.

You can start by using what you already have by applying these basic concepts.

DECLUTTER BEFORE YOU START

Decluttering from time to time not only creates a cleaner space but also gives you a calming and therapeutic experience.

A cluttered space will also affect your mental and emotional well-being other than creating a physical mess in the house.

Having a clutter-free space is far more essential than having a styled home.

Realise that sometimes you get into a habit of hoarding stuff. It's needless to say, not everything you own will always be put to good use. So, start by separating things into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Once you get rid of some stuff, having a clear space will

give you a clear mind to think and plan.

After you declutter, start organising stuff and have storage solutions for everything.

Categorise things lying around and put them in order according to their use.

There are plenty of pretty baskets and organisers available in the market these days that can help sort various things.

Cleaner surfaces and organised spaces are always attractive to the eyes and mind.

MAKE THINGS FUNCTIONAL

Not only should your house be styled, but it should be functional. Having a work desk full of stylish elements but not having space to work is not of good use.

Similarly, your dining table should have dining mats, serviettes, and a tissue paper holder. Your coffee table should have space to put coasters for your guests.

Your bedside table should have drawers to keep daily things like charging cables, medicines, etc. concealed. There should be an ease of working around while styling your house.

DEFINE YOUR STYLE

Before you decorate, start by identifying your style. Whether you are a minimalist or a maximalist, whether you are drawn towards

LEISURE | 54

a group of three pillar candles placed on a tray kept on a table runner.

Or a tea light holder resting on a pile of books along with a planter, all tastefully decorated on a tray which is on top of a table runner or a mat.

Ambient light

Another interesting factor in levelling up your style game is the lighting of your space. With the dusk setting in, turn on the ambient lights.

Floor/wall/ceiling lamps, dim lights, and candles create a warm and cosy feel. A muted light gives a relaxing aura and is soothing to the eye, as well.

Use lampshades at different corners to create a little drama around that space.

Light hitting various objects creates beautiful shadows and creates interest for the eye.

traditional vintage classic decor or like a clean, modern look, whether you like eclectic decor or love rustic farmhouse look.

It is essential to identify what your style is and then invest in it.

Other factors that add to your styling journey are the colour palette, the kind of furniture you invest in, the type of upholstery, and the lighting.

STYLING TIPS

After you have decided on your style, set up the correct spatial arrangement and choose the colours of your liking.

There are a few tips you can keep in mind to place your decor items while styling.

Begin with whatever you have in store, and try to shuffle stuff here and there to refresh the vibe. You can also make a slight shift in your decor according to seasons and festivities to break the monotony.

Group things together

Rather than scattering your decor items on a surface like a centre table or a console table, try grouping things together.

Putting around too many objects will take the attention to all different places without creating any harmony. However, grouping things together will draw attention to a group of decor, treated as one. There can be various things you can group together, like a candle placed on a book with a flower vase/planter on its side.

Rule of odds

Grouping involves a technique. It is believed that a group of odd numbers will draw more attention than a group of even numbers.

Elements for styling

Different elements that you can use to transform your home : A single object or a group of odds like three or five items creates interest. The most common is a group of three as they are more natural or harmonious. You can also group a pair of objects, but ensure they are of different heights. For example, a group of three vases of varied peaks or a planter, a candle votive, and a vase put together.

Elements of varying heights

When you group things together, make sure they are of different heights.

Objects of different elevations create visual interest to the human eye. If you do not have such elements, you can use risers such as a pile of books or a box to increase the height of a flat object. Different plants, lamps, vases, candle stands, and cushions can be incorporated while using this rule.

Pendant lights of different lengths in a corner of a room are appealing.

Layering different objects

Layering becomes crucial when you are grouping things. You can use various pieces for layering such as table runners, mats, trays, plates, etc. You can also combine two or three concepts together. For example,

Greens: Adding beautiful planters around the corners adds colour and freshness to the house. You can also add water-propagating plants in ceramic vases, jars, or tumblers on your coffee table.

Books: They give a vintage feel and also help as risers for your decor objects.

You can refurbish old diaries into art objects and use them for your centre table.

Candles: These are some of the most beautiful decorative objects in the styling domain. Whether they are tea light holders, glass votives, or pillar candles, they add to the beauty of the space.

Flower vases: Vases with fresh or faux plants add height to the table. You can use trays of different materials such as wood, glass, or cane to add layers and group them.

Home linen: You can also use rugs, carpets, runners, and mats for layering.

Use cushions of varying heights with different textured covers to add softness.

Fragrances: One of the beautiful factors to make your place more welcoming is how it smells. One can use diffusers and fragrant candles to add fragrance and make it a lot more pleasing.

57 | LIFESTYLE

IMPROVE YOUR PRODUCTIVITY ONE STEP AT A TIME

If you are someone who relies on timetables and to-do lists to be productive but it's not effective, there's an element you might be missing out on.

The secret ingredient is energy management

Diksha Dogra

W

e all have 24 hours in our day, and still, at the end of the day, some of us are left pondering how certain people are able to do more than others.

When everyone has the same set of hours, how are the outputs so different?

If you give it a good thought, you will know it all comes down to one thing, and that is time management and the right mindset. In the domain of personal development, your mindset and time management skills are the most relevant attributes. According to studies, only 10% of people feel in control of how they spend their time every day. Read along and learn how you can improve your productivity if you change a few habits and notions.

"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot," this quote by author Michael Altschuler reflects that ineffective time management can directly impact your productivity. It can lead to increased stress, bad relationships, missed opportunities, health issues,

low self-esteem, and overall deteriorating quality of life. Whereas, effective time management can allow you to have a better quality of life, improve your productivity, reduce stress, enhance self-confidence, and get efficient results.

Author Idowu Koyenikan shares, "where your attention goes, your time goes."

So, how does one manage time efficiently?

How can one yield more results in a short time span. If you are trying to answer these, here are few steps that you can incorporate in your day-to-day life:

Set an intention for the day

Initially, I could not understand the importance of this exercise, but when I started using it and taught my clients, we all became more productive than we were.

So, if we can do it, you too can. Once you wake up, take some time to freshen up, and then set an intention for the day.

Decide how you want to see your day (happy, joyful, productive, etc.) and what you look forward to achieving that day.

You can start by making a list stating how you want to see your day and what all you look forward to do. You can make this list on your phone so that you have easy access and can go through it several times during the day.

This exercise will help you stay aligned with what you are looking to achieve and stop you from getting distracted. Also, you need not force yourself to finish everything if the list is long. Keep a check on the list and ensure you make a realistic one. Try doing it for at least a week and see how your productivity improves.

Avoid multitasking

I know we all are multitaskers, and we

LIFESTYLE | 58

love taking care of several tasks at once.

We are doing work, checking our phones and emails, and talking to our friends — all at once. However, this is something you must stop. Contrary to popular belief, multitasking is counter-productive and makes your tasks more prolonged and prone to errors. Multitasking does not allow you to stay focused with full awareness of anything.

As you switch between different things, your mind requires a few seconds to disconnect from the previous task and connect with the new one. Consequently, you end up taking more time to complete the work. Avoid it as much as you can to make yourself focused so that whatever you do, you deliver it with quality in less time.

Master the art of saying no

Imagine yourself saying yes to everything people request from you. Can you imagine the kind of havoc it will bring to your life?

Let's be honest, you can not be present for everyone all the time. At some point, you need to stop saying yes to every request that comes your way, and need to start valuing your time and energy. So, begin by saying 'no' whenever you feel you can not do what someone has asked and take a stand for yourself. Your response will save you from the things which are not as important to you, hence managing time for what is more important.

Take care of physical health

I have seen people feeling sick and unwell but still working. Nothing will go wrong if you take a day off for your physical health and rest. Avoid checking emails and calls when you have taken a leave from work.

If you continue to do so, you will set a wrong example for yourself and also others. It also shows how you do not respect yourself to

take the rest you need. Loving what you do is good. I love everything I do, but you need to listen to your body too. It should be your top priority. Take rest when your body needs it badly so that when you feel good again, you can work with complete dedication. Working with sickness will not lead to positive results.

Take small breaks

Having a little free time while working the entire day can be a blessing for your body and mind. While setting an intention, do not forget to add some free time to the list. Take a break of just 15 minutes twice or thrice and spend two mins deep breathing to relax your mind and body. Prioritise your breaks, they are productive.

Declutter your mind and work space

If you follow all the things mentioned above, you will be able to work stress-free.

If you skip any of these things, stress can follow and destroy your mental peace.

Declutter your mind before you sit on your desk by deep breathing or praying.

Also, ensure your workspace is always well-organised as it helps keep your mind clear and improves productivity.

Clutter often brings in negative energy.

Clearing your mind and space will revitalise you with positive energy and make you more efficient and content. Avoid cribbing to improve productivity. If you are the one who is always complaining, you will end up attracting similar things to crib about.

Complaining will give more energy to the thought or incident you are thinking or saying, making it more powerful to repeat again. It is based on the simple logic that you attract what you radiate.

Radiating complaints and negative energy make you attract more negativities.

Instead, let it go and pay gratitude to your work, as it takes care of many things you have in your life. Replace complaining with gratitude so that you attract more things to be grateful for in your life.

In this read, I have given you a list of tools to apply for effective time management and quality results. If you make these things a part of your lifestyle, your life will surely become extraordinary. Being productive is not one big task but an amalgamation of many tiny things that you can do on a daily basis.

While we link productivity with outcome, we often forget that having the right head space, health, and environment are the crucial prerequisites to improve productivity. When you start caring for the little things and invite more positivity into your life, you will see the magic.

You will notice that the bigger things will automatically fall in place with much more ease and efficiency. So, the next time you feel your hours have not been as productive, go back, and analyse how you spent the last few minutes.

As British statesman Lord Chesterfield said, "Take care of the minutes; for hours will take care of themselves."

Your Shopping Address

SHOWROOM:

AURRA COLLECTION HK

LANDWIDE COMMERCIAL BUILDING, A U S T I N R O A D, T S T, K O W L O O N, H O N G K O N G TEL: | W H AT S A P P : + + + +

61 | HEALTH

Unfolding your relationship with food When it comes to food, what we eat, how we eat, and how much we eat, impacts our physical and mental well-being. Here's how being mindful about our choices with food can benefit us Astha Anand

M

y father once told me that if you can't control what you put in your mouth, you will tend to have very little control over anything else in your life, be it relationships, career, lifestyle, family, etc. The relationship that you share with your food is the most important bond to have as it helps you understand the nuances of life.

Leading a healthy lifestyle is not only vital because it helps you sustain a good life but also because it helps build your immunity that aids in fighting various diseases and illnesses. Someone who has a healthy eating pattern feels more in

control of their health and well-being as compared to someone who feels that food controls them.

Having a good relationship with food does not mean you achieve something miraculously overnight, like start eating extremely healthy, shed those extra kilos, or hit the gym every day. Creating a good bond with your food takes time; it should be a slow but sustainable process.

Let's try to understand the difference between mindful eating and mindless eating before we deep-dive into how we can reset and re-develop our relationship with food.

MINDFUL EATING VERSUS MINDLESS EATING

Mindfulness is a term that has become

deeply embedded in our daily conversations — its meaning, however, is very profound.

It urges us to have a conscious awareness of whatever we want to do and everything we do. In this context, mindful eating is the art of being present while we eat.

We need to be fully aware of what and how much we consume daily. Mindful eating encourages us to gather more awareness and be more conscious of our choices, habits, and eating experiences.

Mindful eating also entails your approach to food that focuses on your health — physical, emotional, and spiritual.

It has more to do with your awareness and experience and less with the actual food components such as fats, carbohydrates, protein, or calories. Mindful eating does not mean hogging healthy food such as

HEALTH | 62

avocados, chicken, nuts, seeds, fish, etc.

It encourages us to adapt to a lifestyle of eating better and being present.

Going on intermittent fasting or opting for weight and fat reduction procedures, along with hitting the gym — help us in short-term gains. Once you get out of touch with any of these, you will see yourself going back to the same shape. You will again end up feeling unhealthier, and having a lower sense of self-esteem. The issue with fad diets is that they focus on the rules of eating rather than the intent behind eating.

They fail to help you create sustainable, healthy relationships with food. It's the only thing that can further push you to eat mindfully and remain healthy.

Mindful eating is not about losing or gaining weight; it is about knowing what you consume on a daily basis, understanding how it affects you and what it does to your body. Theoretically speaking, it is said that we should only try things we can do on a daily or weekly basis. Any new addition to your routine might disrupt the pattern for a bit, but eventually, you end up in the same old patterns and comfort zone, and then the body reacts accordingly.

Being mindful of the habits you pick up around your health is also extremely important. The suggestion to begin mindful eating is not to watch TV while eating, chew around 32 times before swallowing, sit straight but relaxed while you eat and serve proper balanced portions.

We've heard all these things from our mothers and grandmothers, but we seldom follow them ourselves.

Today's fast-paced life is one of the major causes of obesity, unhealthy lifestyles, and higher alcohol and tobacco consumption. Mindless eating is one of the many causes of leading an unhealthy lifestyle. The process of mindless eating is subtle but it creeps up on almost all of us. A bag of chips does not seem like a big deal, but when we count the calories and the sodium component of all the packets we eat in a month, it is a lot.

Mindless eating is eating without cause or reason. Have you ever devoured the last slice of a crusty pizza or finished a bag of chips even after you were full? It hurts to answer these questions because there is no apparent answer. We tend to overeat when we are under stress, when

we are up late at night, or when we are bored and have nothing to do. The kind of food one eats when it comes to mindless eating is almost always extremely unhealthy but tastes extremely good. Once we start, we are unable to stop and we keep eating even after we are full — that is our cue that it is finally time to stop. We mostly eat because our aim is to finish what we started, just for the pleasure we derive from it.

Now that we understand the gist of mindful and mindless eating, it is of utmost importance to understand how one can develop a healthy relationship with food.

When we say creating a healthy relationship with food, it does not mean going on a rampant diet, hitting the gym daily, or changing all your eating habits in two days.

It is bad news for your body and your mental state. Rushing into anything will do no good, it will only cause more harm.

It is crucial to understand how your body functions, what it allows and what it does not. We need to give time to our bodies to adapt to any new diet or lifestyle changes.

HOW TO DEVELOP A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD Hydrate

Water makes up literally 70% of our body.

It is imperative for all our body functions, and it is the elemental base of our existence.

Drinking plenty of water and consuming sufficient vitamin C is good for your skin, mental health, brain, and body.

How much water should you drink, though? Leading experts say that we should drink at least two to three litres of water per day. The daily water intake would also ideally depend on your height, weight, activity level, where you live, lifestyle, etc.

Manage your portions

It is necessary to keep a calorie count.

As you grow old, your metabolism tends to decrease, and that can cause you to

Mindful eating is not about losing or gaining weight; it is about knowing what you consume and how it affects you or what it does to your body. On the other hand, mindless eating is consuming food without cause or reason

feel bloated and also lead to excess stored stubborn fat and laziness. Your body gets tired faster, and that leads to less activity and ultimately to gaining more weight.

Watching how much you eat and what you eat in terms of the portion will allow you to eat what you love but also in limits.

It will help you enjoy your meals and also stay healthy. Take smaller bowls or plates when serving food for yourself.

Preferably, go for smaller plates — you can always take a second serving, but having food on a larger plate will make you feel fuller and heavier by the end of the meal.

It is so important to listen to your body.

Ideally, right before you feel full, it is time to stop. Don't overeat to finish the food on your plate or because the food tastes extremely good.

Go easy on salt and sugar

These are the biggest evils in your dietary requirements. We should only consume one tablespoon sugar, but we end up hogging on so many desserts. We need to realise the risks attached to eating too much sugar — diabetes and heart-related issues.

The same goes for salt. Salt intake can also lead to heart issues, higher blood pressure, bone health issues, etc. It is important to understand how much to consume and how to avoid it when needed.

Lifestyle changes

If all the suggestions shared above seem too much and you don't know where to start, don't worry. It gets easier and better over time. Slowly but surely, you will pick up on things that you need to do for a healthier lifestyle.

One can try keeping a food tracker and see their patterns of daily food consumption.

It can also help if you seek professionals to understand your diet and lifestyle. This will give you the clarity that you need to take care of your health. You can visit a dietician, a nutritionist, or a physical professional to ensure you are going on the right path.

Following fad trends is not the way to go.

Lastly, I am talking from the perspective of a therapist and helping you understand your relation with food — how it affects you, what you do when you eat mindlessly, and how you can start consuming food mindfully to have a better experience.

That being said, do what works best for you.

65 | LEISURE

HOROSCOPE

FOR 2024 Aries

Leo

Sagittarius

You need to focus on setting realistic goals and preparing road maps towards achieving them.

Your energy may be high, but you will have to channel it wisely.

Your positive energies this year will lead to fulfilling relationships.

Don't shy away from taking centre stage this year as your energy and charisma will shine bright.

Your enthusiasm will be contagious, attracting opportunities in both personal and professional matters.

Confidence will guide you to success.

It will be the perfect time to explore new horizons and expand your knowledge by immersing in new experiences. Professional growth remains steady. Keep an optimistic outlook for success and continue to work hard with determination.

Taurus

Virgo

This year will bring stability to your life. Spend time and energy to nurture relationships and deepen connections to enhance your peace.

Your financial situation is likely to improve, and creative endeavours are likely to flourish.

Pay attention to both work and personal life and take mindful steps to nurture the two equally.

Your meticulous planning will pay off and reap rewards in the second half. Take time for self-reflection to enhance personal growth.

Capricorn

Gemini

Libra

Communication will be key this year. Express your thoughts and feelings clearly to avoid misunderstandings. Your social life will be buzzing, bringing new and exciting connections.

Professionally, growth can be slow.

Focus on your goals as this will be a productive year for career advancement. Don't be afraid to make bold decisions. Personal relations will flourish if you stay honest to yourself.

Finances can be tight, so be careful of your spending acumen.

Aquarius

You need to work on strengthening existing bonds and be open to new connections as this year could be demanding. Professionally, you will face situations that will require deep thinking. Trust your instincts while making any decision.

Take initiatives to socialise and build a network as it will prove fruitful on both personal and professional front. Your authentic ideas will gain recognition and success. It is a good time to experiment and innovate.

Take good care of your well-being.

Cancer

Scorpio

Pisces

Start the year with self-care and self-introspection. Indulge in yoga or meditation that will help you strengthen your emotional wellbeing. Seek a balanced approach that will work wonders for your personal and professional growth.

This year will bring a surge of energy and creativity. It is the right time to dive into passion projects and give wings to your artistic side.

Your financial situation will steadily improve, but you need to be mindful of your spending.

Take care of your physical and mental health as it will allow you to focus better on all aspects of life.

Your intuition will be your guiding light, so, trust your gut while making important decisions. Nurture your relationships for a harmonious year.

LEISURE | 66

IN THE MIDST OF MY 20S Vinni Gupta It all began with a whisper of settling down, A moment when responsibility's weight was found.

But stopping myself from believing this prospect.

I chose to unveil life beyond "what's next".

Beyond degrees, jobs, and the daily grind, In the heart of my 20s, my journey I'll define.

Thinking about settling now is not what this time is for, Instead embrace the adrenaline rush, explore life's open doors.

What if I stumble on the path I choose, I'll adapt, experience the new without excuse.

Painting my canvas with untold adventures and memories grand, In the story of my life, my unique legends will stand.

I don't know what sets our souls on fire in this decade, But it just makes me live life to the brim and embrace my different shades.

From pursuing passions and embracing my fears, To making bold choices and wiping away the tears.

A beautiful time it is to live everything you wished for, Giving a shot to all those chances I never thought I would score.

Might climb the ladder of success and might face a downfall, But what I would build from it, I won't learn from a book or from someone's life's chapter after all.

Now is the time to take those solo trips and feel my own vibes, To be free, unburdened, and wild and shape my destiny just like a daring child.

Seeking the roads that are unfamiliar to me and get lost in the midst, Lose my way, but then regain my grip, my twist.

The times I experienced until the midst of my 20s, were not always a fairytale, What came with it was a package of lonely times I had to sail, The friends I used to meet everyday could catch up after months or years now, But what's positive is that even after years the bond stayed the same somehow.

Each day feels like a rollercoaster ride, From heartbreak to resilience, I shall bide.

Chasing thrills, cherishing moments, I feel alive, Living each moment fully, embracing what life has to provide.

The uniqueness within Vinni Gupta Amidst life's journey, I paused to inquire, Could AI really replace what I aspire?

Is it that easy to take my place, When creativity and uniqueness are what I embrace?

It's comical, I think, when those who know this field, Devalue my worth due to AI, making my calibre sealed.

In self-doubt, I asked the AI, is it really true?

Its answer left me with a lesson brand new.

"You possess the power of your uniqueness," it said, "I'm born from minds like yours, where creativity is bred My purpose is to assist, to make your work swift, With knowledge and creativity, your talents uplift.

In this ever-changing world, you still stand tall, For I won't surpass you, no, not at all.

Only you possess the vision to foresee, The influence of your creations, setting hearts free.

For those who believe that I have the power to replace you, They miss the essence of your vision and your point of view.

It's your unique touch, a story you've unfurled, A treasure I'll never replicate in this world.

Believe in your passion, in what you create, I can just enhance your productivity, that's my trait.

In your masterpiece, my role stays small, Your creativity, after all, conquers all."