Mornings hold the power to shape the tone of our entire day.

Mornings hold the power to shape the tone of our entire day. How you begin your morning often decides whether you move through the day feeling centered, focused and energized or scattered and sluggish. Successful people across the world, from entrepreneurs to athletes, swear by their morning rituals as the foundation of productivity and positivity. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all routine, certain practices consistently stand out as game-changers. Let’s explore some powerful morning habits that can help you make the most of each day.  

1. Wake Up with Intention, Not Just Alarm

  Most of us wake up to the ring of an alarm clock and immediately reach for our phones. But mornings are more peaceful when you wake up with intention. Instead of hitting snooze multiple times, try setting your alarm a little earlier and rising on the first ring. Place your phone away from your bed so you have to get up to turn it off. Then start by taking a few deep breaths or stretching lightly. This signals your body that it’s time to transition from rest to activity, gently activating your mind without stress. Even two minutes of mindful waking can transform the tone of your morning.  

2. Hydrate and Nourish Your Body

  Your body has been fasting for hours while you slept, so the first thing it needs is hydration. A glass of water in the morning helps flush out toxins, kickstart your metabolism and rehydrate your cells. Some people add lemon for an extra boost of vitamin C and freshness. Following that, a nourishing breakfast sets the tone for sustained energy. Choose foods rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats instead of sugary cereals or pastries that cause energy crashes. Options like oats with fruit, eggs on whole-grain toast or a smoothie with greens can keep you fueled and focused through the morning.  

3. Move Your Body, Move Your Mind

  Morning exercise doesn’t have to mean an intense gym session. A simple 15–20 minutes of movement whether it’s yoga, stretching, a brisk walk or even dancing to your favorite song can wake up your body and release endorphins. Exercise not only improves physical health but also sharpens mental clarity and lifts your mood. And for those with busy schedules, even doing a few stretches while your coffee brews or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help integrate movement into your morning.   

4. Practice Mindfulness or Gratitude

  Your mindset is one of the most powerful tools for productivity. Starting your day with mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing or journaling can reduce stress and increase focus. Just five minutes of stillness can create a sense of calm that lasts throughout the day. Writing down three things you’re grateful for each morning shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant. Over time, this builds resilience and positivity, even during stressful times.  

5. Plan and Prioritize Your Day

  A productive day starts with clarity. Instead of diving straight into emails and notifications, take a few minutes to plan your top priorities. Ask yourself: What are the three most important tasks I need to complete today? Writing them down not only helps you focus but also prevents overwhelm. Some people use planners, digital apps or even sticky notes. When you start with a clear roadmap, you’re less likely to waste time on distractions.  

7. Create a Ritual You Enjoy

  Routines don’t have to feel rigid. They work best when they include small rituals you genuinely enjoy. Maybe it’s brewing your favorite tea, reading a few pages of an inspiring book, listening to a podcast or simply sitting by the window to watch the sunrise. These moments of joy make your mornings something to look forward to instead of a rushed checklist.   Consistency Over Perfection     The goal of a morning routine is not to pack in every possible habit but to create a rhythm that supports your life. Some days you may not have time for all of these practices and that’s okay. But what matters is consistency. Even adopting one or two of these habits can bring noticeable changes in your energy, mindset and productivity.  

World Wildlife Day

“Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to man. Just as one seeks happiness and fears pain, just as one wishes to live and not die, so do other creatures.” – Dalai Lama If you’ve ever visited a wildlife sanctuary or been on a safari, you know the feeling. The first glimpse of a tiger prowling in its natural home, or the calm majesty of an elephant herd, or even the innocent gaze of a deer,these moments stay with you forever. And yet, humans often forget this harmony, as if the earth were theirs alone to own. It’s home to countless beings right from animals that roam the forests, birds that paint the skies, insects that work silently, aquatic creatures that breathe life into the oceans and the plants that stand tall as silent guardians of the earth. Together, they form a delicate symphony of life. Every creature, whether it speaks our language or not, has a purpose in the grand design of nature. Each balances the environment in ways we often fail to see. But our actions tell a different story.  Every single second, more than 3,000 animals are slaughtered worldwide, and every year, nearly 56 billion lives are taken by human hands. Despite this relentless killing, humans remain outnumbered, perhaps because nature itself resists imbalance. When a species disappears, the turbulence in the ecosystem echoes back to us. Wildlife isn’t just about “the wild.” It’s the pulse of our planet. As Paul Oxton once said, “Humankind must learn to understand that the life of an animal is in no way less precious than our own.” These speechless beings share the earth with us; they are co-owners of this home we call planet Earth. To address the growing crisis of poaching, hunting, and exploitation, the United Nations General Assembly, during its 68th session, declared March 3 as World Wildlife Day. Since then, it has become one of the most important global platforms to celebrate biodiversity, raise awareness, and call for urgent action against wildlife crime. Beyond highlighting the threats, it inspires us to adopt sustainable ways of living that leave behind fewer carbon footprints and more compassion. World Wildlife Day is not just another “environmental date” on the calendar. It’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and celebrate the magical web of life we are all part of. It’s about realizing that protecting wildlife is not charity, it’s our responsibility and our need for survival. Nature has a way of making us fall in love and when you fall in love, you naturally protect what you cherish. So this World Wildlife Day, let’s not just scroll past another awareness post. Let’s remind ourselves that life, whether human or not, is equally precious. Because in saving them, we save ourselves.

The Solo Biker Travelogue

“India is big, and she wanted to have a good look at it before it got dark.” You know you’re in for a hell of a crazy ride when wanderlust runs in your veins, a motorbike waits beside you, and adrenaline pushes you forward. That’s exactly what happened with Roshni Sharma, the first woman ever to ride solo across the length of India. At just 26, she didn’t just ride from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, she rode from being a girl with dreams to a woman with vision. In a country where women are still too often told to “stay feminine” and “play it safe,” Roshni dared to defy. Born in Narora, Uttar Pradesh, she had always been an adrenaline junkie. By 16, she was already zooming around on her first bike. Later, while working at an IT firm in Bangalore, she couldn’t resist her weekend escapes from cycling to random places to riding up cliffs and chasing sunsets. But deep inside, she craved more. One day, while discussing her restless urge to ride long distances, her travel buddy Roshan encouraged her,  “Do it solo. You’ll be the first Indian woman ever.” That single nudge lit the spark. Roshni didn’t just hop on a bike and ride. She prepared like a warrior. Training her body, fixing her diet, studying maps, and seeking guidance from biking veterans like retired Army officer Mr. Kaleem. But then came the most important and hardest part, convincing her parents. It wasn’t easy but eventually they backed her dream. Some people cheered her on, others doubted her. But Roshni had made up her mind, nothing was stopping her. And so, the journey began.

The Ride of a Lifetime

The road from Kashmir to Kanyakumari tested her at every turn. There were days she felt regret, nights she felt unsafe, and moments when the weight of stereotypes pressed harder than her bike’s engine. Some stares were unsettling, some roads unwelcoming. But with every mile, Roshni grew stronger. What didn’t break her, made her fearless. She once said, “Gender stereotypes start at the very base of our society. If parents raise their children with healthy mindsets, they can spread their wings and fly high.” Her ride wasn’t just across India, it was across centuries of conditioning. For Roshni, travelling isn’t a hobby, it’s a missing piece of her soul. It reshapes the way she sees the world, away from stereotypes and closer to freedom. Today, she lives in Amsterdam with her husband, but her wanderlust hasn’t slowed. Greece has already stolen her heart, and next on her list is Thailand. A five-day, women-only biking trip this October, designed to give women a chance to ride fearlessly and form unbreakable bonds. Through her travel blog, Roshni keeps inspiring women to travel without fear. Her message is clear: “Be daring enough to speak out for yourself. Don’t give up before you even try. Plan your path, stay strategic, and go for it.” Roshni’s story is not just about one woman on a bike. It’s about every woman who has ever been told she can’t. Her journey has become a spark, pushing countless others to pack their bags, start their engines, and chase their own adventures. Because sometimes, all it takes is one fearless rider to prove that The road is wide enough for all our dreams.

Simla Travelogue

“Nostalgia hovers gently over the slopes of Shimla, once the proud summer capital of India, where the Himalayas still cradle a city that refuses to let go of its past.” Summers may have us locked down, but wanderlust has its own way of breaking free and if there’s one hill station that always comes to mind in the Indian summer, it is still Shimla. Today it is a bustling metropolis, its hillsides dotted with buildings that stretch endlessly from Anandale to Summer Hill, Shoja to Mashobra, sometimes appearing more chaotic than charming. Yet look closer, and the city reveals its old-world elegance, a heritage woven deep into its streets, its homes and its stories. To truly feel the heartbeat of the old summer capital, sign up for a walking tour with historian Raja Bhasin. He leads visitors past Bantony Hall, Gorton Castle, and Tendrils Cottage, grand buildings that once housed the British elite. With every step you can almost see the fashionable ladies in their imported gowns, their escorts leading them to picnics and ballroom dances. This was a town alive with music, scandals, and whispered affairs, so much so that the Mall still carries the name of Scandal Point, a place once forbidden to Indians when the sahibs ruled. A little outside the city lies Mashobra, daisy-dotted and charming, where picnics and palace life once flourished. Here you’ll find the rambling estate of the Maharani of Faridkot, once filled with antique cars, and the Gables Hotel, now a Club Mahindra property, where the ballroom that once hosted grand English dances still stands in silent dignity. A century-old church still watches over the hills, and down in the valley of Sipur, villagers gather each year for a fair that brings weddings, cattle, and community under the shade of deodars. From here, a gentle walk leads to Craignano, once home to the United Services’ Club and later a forest guesthouse, now being restored. Beyond it lies a horticulture college, where the region’s oldest maple tree still spreads its arms, a quiet reminder of time’s endurance. Shimla’s regal charm is best discovered through the places you stay. The grand Cecil Hotel, now an Oberoi property, still whispers of imperial evenings; Chapslee, a boutique hotel owned by a real Maharaja, gleams with antiques and legacy; Sunnymead, Madhvi Bhatia’s homestay, offers warmth with heritage; and Hotel Springfields just below the Mall is another timeless retreat. These aren’t just hotels, they are windows into Shimla’s soul, the kind of homes from where explorations feel like stepping into history. And then there is the Mall Road, crowded and noisy yet essential to the Shimla experience. To skip it is to miss the city’s very soul. Here you can dine at Goofa Restaurant, once the Band-Stand where English music floated through cool evenings, or step into the Gaiety Theatre, restored with care, where plays are still performed for those who love the stage. In Maria Brothers, an old bookstore, you may stumble upon priceless antiques from the Raj, each carrying whispers of history. Further along stand the Peterhoff Hotel and the stately Vice Regal Lodge, preserved with guided tours that let you walk where viceroys once held court. Finally, down the winding road from Raj Bhawan, Anandale spreads like a natural meadow, once the playground of polo matches and now alive with helicopter take-offs. Shimla may wear the marks of modernity, its traffic, its hotels, its urban sprawl but beneath it all lies a city that has held onto its essence. Here time bends, one moment you’re in the rush of the present, the next you’re caught in a scene from the past. Shimla reminds us that history isn’t something to be locked away in museums, it is something that breathes through walls, whispers in trees, and lingers in streets. And that’s why, for Shimla, old is not forgotten, old is truly gold.

Places in India That Look Like Abroad

Best Places in India That Looks Like Abroad Traveling is always a thrilling experience, you get to explore new cultures, breathtaking places, delicious foods and most importantly, create stories to remember. But what if I told you that you don’t always need a passport to feel like you’re abroad? India, with its vast and diverse landscapes, hides gems that can easily be mistaken for Hawaii, Switzerland, Alaska or even the Bonneville Salt Flats. So, if you’ve been daydreaming about foreign trips but want to explore closer to home, let’s leaf through 5 stunning Indian destinations that mirror international beauty. Let’s leaf through 5 spots that resemble scenery from another country

1. Kovalam, Kerala – Hawaii Vibes The southern coast of India is nothing short of paradise and Kovalam in Kerala proves it. With palm groves lining the white sandy shores, sparkling blue waters, and sun-kissed beaches, Kovalam looks straight out of Hawaii. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, while the colorful beachside stalls selling chaats and seafood make it even more vibrant. Imagine relaxing by the ocean with green hills in the backdrop, it’s like Hawaii, but with an Indian soul. 

2. Auli, Uttarakhand – Alaska’s Twin If Alaska’s snow-clad landscapes have always fascinated you, Auli is the Indian alternative you need to visit. Nestled in Uttarakhand, Auli offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, dense coniferous forests, and rolling meadows that feel like stepping into another dimension. Winter is the best season to visit when skiing enthusiasts from across the country gather here. With the cable car ride connecting Auli to Joshimath, nearby attractions like Badrinath Temple and Valley of Flowers, and even wildlife like snow leopards and red-tailed foxes, it’s Alaska’s magic recreated in India.

3. Gulmarg, Kashmir – Switzerland of the East When people dream of Switzerland, what they often imagine are snowy slopes, lush pine forests, and quaint little towns. Gulmarg in Kashmir offers exactly that. It is India’s skiing capital and easily rivals the charm of Swiss Alps with its cloud-filled mountain ranges, meandering roads, and evergreen forests. The scenery here feels like a foreign land wrapped in the crown of India, proving why Kashmir is called heaven on earth.

4. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat – India’s Salt Flats Think of the breathtaking Bonneville Salt Flats of the U.S., and then picture the White Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. Stretching endlessly under the sky, the salt desert here glows differently at sunrise, sunset, and especially under the full moon. The sheer vastness of the white salty land makes it look like you’re walking on another planet. Add to that the cultural vibrancy of the Rann Utsav, and you’ve got a travel experience that’s both globally reminiscent and uniquely Indian.

5. Munnar, Kerala – Malaysia’s Tea Gardens If rolling tea plantations and mist-clad hills remind you of Malaysia, then Munnar in Kerala is your desi version. This hill station is painted in lush shades of green with endless tea estates, cascading waterfalls, and fresh mountain air. A simple stroll here feels therapeutic, almost like walking inside a painting. The best time to visit is from October to February when the weather is at its most pleasant. It’s no surprise that Munnar is one of Kerala’s most visited gems, attracting travelers from around the world. So the next time wanderlust strikes, remember, you don’t always need to go abroad to experience beauty that feels out of this world. India is a land where Alaska meets Switzerland, Hawaii meets Malaysia, and paradise is often just a train or flight away. All you need to do is pack your bags, open your heart, and let the magic unfold.

 

An element of every scripture

“Every great discovery, every timeless scripture, every life-changing decision—has always begun with one thing: a question.” Right from a young age, when we were in schools and colleges, the format of learning was simple, ask questions and receive answers. At first glance, it might appear ordinary, but in truth, it has always been one of the most powerful methods of learning. Modern educationists and scholars still emphasize the art of questioning, conducting deep research on how the right questions can shape a student’s thinking. What feels like a modern tool of learning is, in fact, an ancient wisdom that has existed for thousands of years. The Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Bhagavad Gita, Bible, Torah, and countless other scriptures stand testimony to this eternal format of knowledge, the dialogue of questions and answers. Let us dive into how both modern academicians and ancient scriptures celebrated this timeless method of learning.

•  Use Divergent or Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions open the door to creativity. Instead of seeking a simple yes or no, they inspire the answer-giver to think, reflect, and express multiple perspectives. Teachers today encourage such questions—like “What do you think?” or “What could be done differently?”—because they push learners to think critically. Interestingly, such questioning was a hallmark of ancient times too. In the Ramayana, when King Dasharatha decided to crown Lord Rama, he didn’t simply announce his decision. Instead, he asked his citizens questions like, “Why do you think Rama should be king?” and “What qualities make him worthy of the throne?” These open-ended questions reflect not just a wise king’s humility, but also the timeless power of dialogue in shaping decisions.

• Try to Avoid Convergent or Close-Ended Questions

Close-ended questions often confine thought. For example, asking “Do you see the yellow color?” leaves no room for imagination. While such questions have their place, they should be used sparingly. Ancient scriptures also highlight this balance. In the Mahabharata, Guru Drona tested his disciples during archery practice by asking if they could see the bird on the tree. Most gave vague, unfocused answers. But Arjuna’s response stood apart: “I only see the eye of the bird.” His sharp, focused answer was the result of a precise question—and it demonstrated how avoiding restrictive questioning can channel deep concentration and clarity.

• Offer Question Starters

Another effective way to encourage learning is to frame questions with starters like “How could we solve…?” or “What would happen if…?” These invite learners to explore multiple angles of a situation. Ancient dialogues are filled with such questioning techniques. When King Parikshit sought wisdom from Sage Sukadeva Goswami, he often framed his questions with thoughtful starters: “What did Krishna do after slaying the demoness Putana?”, “How did the people of Vrindavan react?”, “Were the cows and calves safe?” Such questions didn’t just invite factual answers—they encouraged the sage to narrate stories from different perspectives, weaving in emotion, context, and philosophy.

•  Accept Every Answer Equally

A true teacher or leader values every response, even when the answers differ. Modern classrooms encourage this so that learners don’t feel judged or dismissed. Ancient scriptures too echo this principle. In the Ramayana, when Lord Rama asked his generals—Sugriva, Jambavan, and Hanuman—whether Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother, should be accepted into their fold, the responses varied. Some advised against it, while Hanuman firmly said yes. Rama listened to them all patiently, respecting each view, before explaining why Vibhishana should indeed be accepted. This moment shows the importance of honoring every answer, for it nurtures inclusivity and wisdom in decision-making. In essence, the format of questions and answers has always been humanity’s most powerful tool for learning, shaping kingdoms, guiding disciples, and enriching scriptures. Without questions, there would be no Bhagavad Gita, no Mahabharata, no Ramayana because each was born out of dialogue. So the next time someone asks you a question, remember,  it is not just curiosity, it is an age-old key to wisdom, passed down through generations.

When Children Divulge To Their Parents

Everyone says childhood is the best phase of life. For many, it might be true, but think again : Is childhood really the happiest chapter for every child? Today, countless stories of child abuse remind us that not every child grows up in joy. Both boys and girls fall victim to molestation and rape, often at the hands of strangers and, horrifyingly, sometimes even by family members. Many remain silent, paralyzed by fear and threats, unable to confide even in their parents. At an age meant for playfulness and discovery, such children are burdened with trauma. Some sink into depression, some lose their lives to internal battles, and some tragically to physical abuse itself. This is not childhood—it is silent suffering. They withdraw, mistrust everyone, and live in isolation, stripped of the innocence every child deserves. A child’s soul is as pure as their heart yet the acts committed against them remain darkest and most cruel. The sheer frequency of these crimes shocks society and forces parents to restrict their children in fear. Yet, sexual assault is only one wound. Bullying, often dismissed as “harmless,” can sometimes scar deeper than physical abuse. A bullied child begins to question their worth, lose confidence, and slip into mental health struggles. Whether through assault or bullying, the child is left devastated, unable to express pain or seek help.

So, who is at Fault?

This question demands reflection. The responsibility of ruining a child’s innocence doesn’t fall on one person, it lies with all who surround them. When a child speaks with excitement, we hush them, calling it noise. When they withdraw, we dismiss them as useless or negative. Our quick judgments, constant scolding, and harsh words either ignite anger in them or silence them completely. Some grow up with rage, others retreat into loneliness. Either way, their mental strength weakens, and their potential fades. What is the solution?: The answer lies in friendship, empathy, and communication. Children must not only be told to treat parents as friends, but parents too must step down from anger, listen, and support. A simple assurance that “we are here for you” can make a child feel protected. According to a survey by Darkness to Light, only a third of child sexual abuse cases are ever identified—and even fewer are reported. Prevention begins at home. Parents and society must act as counsellors, guardians, and protectors before trauma takes root. Therapists may heal severe cases, but if we listen, care, and act early, professional help may never be needed. Because truly, prevention is always better than cure.

How Toxic Masculinity Enables Oppression

“In our world, boys are not born violent, entitled, or emotionless—society teaches them to be. And we call that masculinity.” In a country devoured by the flames of patriarchy and outdated notions of tradition and culture, the distorted idea of masculinity is visible at every level. But what really is masculinity? If you google it, it defines it as “qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men.” In simpler terms, it is everything someone identifying as male uses to express their gender. And in today’s world, those expressions span a shocking range from something as mundane as wearing pants to something as dangerous as using violence to assert dominance. Which brings us back to the age-old question: What makes someone a Man? What indeed? How do we recognize a “man” in his so-called natural habitat? What comes to mind when you hear the word? Short hair. Pants. Deep voice. Muscles. Aggression. Mischief. Loudness. Dominance. Assertiveness. These are the traits, often unconsciously, used to label someone a man. A man must be powerful, athletic, and competitive. He must reject anything remotely “feminine,” especially emotions other than anger. He must lead, control and stay independent at all costs. These are the general markers we associate with masculinity. But let’s dig deeper. Which of these traits is universal? Which of these are things young boys grow up believing they must embody to be a “real man”? And should someone’s identity be defined so narrowly by society? Do these rigid definitions come without consequence? Here’s reality : these very characteristics, glorified as “manly,” have brewed a toxic concoction of oppression. Young boys spend their lives chasing an identity that was already theirs, while grown men, fearful of losing that identity, lash out violently. Perhaps this sounds idealistic, even simplistic, but pause for a moment and reflect. The socialization of masculinity teaches boys to reject the feminine, to be tough and aggressive, to suppress every emotion but anger, to distance themselves from intimacy with other men, and to measure worth in competition, power, and dominance. At the core of traditional masculinity lie anti-femininity and homophobia. Take domestic violence as an example. Why does it occur? Surveys point to one common reason: entitlement. A desperate need for control and absolute authority. Are these not direct outcomes of what we’ve defined masculinity to be? We glorify the idea that a man must be a provider, powerful and unyielding, and then turn a blind eye to the aftermath of this dangerous myth. The ripple effects extend beyond men themselves, shaping how women are treated in a patriarchal society. Discrimination and oppression of women aren’t caused by toxic masculinity alone, but this mindset that a human must “prove” themselves worthy of identity through aggression and dominance, certainly enables it. If a child is taught that his identity can be stripped away unless he behaves a certain way, aggressive, careless, disrespectful, then this country will always remain a place where daughters live in fear, and where every human feels inadequate in their own skin. The solution is not complicated. Teach young minds better, and they will build the society we can only dream of, a society built on acceptance, not conformity. A society where being human is enough.

Mental Exercises to Stay Optimistic

“When the outside world feels chaotic, the only way out is to go within.” A state of true fitness comes only when the body is in harmony with the mind. Yet many of us still see fitness as purely physical well-being, forgetting the deeper dimensions of mental and spiritual health. Real happiness blooms when we nurture all three together. After spending months confined within the four walls of our homes, protecting ourselves from Coronavirus, many have begun to struggle with mental health. It’s not easy to stay optimistic when life keeps shifting so abruptly. That’s why The Indian Statement brings you a few simple yet powerful mental exercises to help you stay positive:

• Do Meditation and Yoga

Nothing works better than calming the soul by centering attention on yourself. Meditation done daily fills you with positive energy and a quiet sense of satisfaction. Don’t let negative thoughts consume you, instead find what puts your body, mind and soul at rest. Try calming music or binaural beats, steady your breathing or take walks in natural spaces. Reading uplifting books or simply lying on your bed letting sweet memories flow can do wonders too.

• Appreciate Yourself

Be grateful to yourself for the battles you’ve already won instead of punishing yourself for the ones you lost. Practice positive affirmations, stand before a mirror, look into your eyes and compliment yourself for something you’re proud of. Do this daily to build a healthy relationship with yourself. Discover what bothers you, what comforts you, and what makes you feel at home. Remember, your body shape doesn’t decide your worth. If wearing a short skirt makes you happy, wear it. Keep reminding yourself: you are beautiful, just as you are.

•  Acknowledge Others

Once you’ve recognized the magic within you, look for it in others. Appreciate their hard work, encourage them, remind them of their worth. Even a smile shared can brighten a day. By spreading positivity around you, you double its power. After all, creating a supportive environment benefits everyone.

• Keep Yourself Occupied

As the saying goes, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” Free time often invites negative thoughts. Avoid that by staying active. Do what you love, exercise, dance, journal, learn a new language or pick up a forgotten hobby. But remember, being occupied doesn’t mean overworking. Balance is key. Make a simple to-do list and tick tasks as you go. This will leave you feeling accomplished, and ready for restful sleep.

•  Make Peace with Your Demons

The past can be painful for many people and flashbacks often might even feel overwhelming. But acceptance lessens their power. Psychology shows that trying to “forget” memories only makes them sharper. Instead of resisting, acknowledge them for what they are: events that no longer control your present. By making peace with them, you free yourself to carve a better future. Remember, staying positive isn’t about ignoring struggles, it’s about equipping yourself with habits that help you rise above them. Start small, be gentle with yourself and watch how light slowly returns to your days.

Moussaka Recipe by Vandy

Ingredients

• Eggplant – 1 medium (sliced & sautéed in olive oil)
• Boiled Potatoes – 3 medium (sliced)
• Grated Cheese – 200 g (about ½ cup)

For the Sauce:

• Tomatoes – 6 medium (boiled, blanched & pureed)
• Garlic – 2 tsp (finely chopped)
• Mixed Herbs – 2 tsp
• Fresh Basil – ¼ cup (handful, chopped)
• Zucchini – ½ cup (sliced small)
• Mushrooms – ½ cup (sliced)
• Olive Oil – 2 tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Sugar – 1 tsp (optional, if tomatoes are too sour)

Method (Sauce Preparation)

• Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add zucchini and mushrooms, cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in pureed tomatoes, mixed herbs, salt, and chopped basil.
• (Optional) Add sugar if the sauce tastes too sour.
• Let simmer on low flame for 5 minutes.

Layering the Dish

• In a baking dish, place a layer of sliced potatoes. Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle half the cheese.
• Add the sautéed eggplant slices, pour the remaining sauce over them, and top with the rest of the cheese.
• Preheat oven to 200°C. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 5–6 minutes until the top turns golden brown.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with a Mixed Green Salad tossed in lemon juice or simply drizzle with balsamic vinegar for freshness.