A recent BBC Future report examining research and expert perspectives found that brushing remains an important part of hair care, but many long-standing assumptions about the practice are not supported by scientific evidence. Instead, hair specialists and researchers say the relationship between brushing and hair health is influenced by hair texture, moisture levels, and brushing technique.

A Grooming Practice With Deep Historical Roots

Hair grooming tools have existed for thousands of years. Historical records show that combs and brushes were used by ancient societies for both hygiene and appearance, making hair care one of humanity’s oldest personal-care rituals.

According to hair historian Rachael Gibson, the popular idea of completing 100 brush strokes each night likely emerged during the Victorian era, when long hair was strongly associated with ideals of femininity and social status. Women often used combs to remove debris and tangles before brushing with natural-bristle brushes designed to distribute oils throughout the hair.

The practice became more widespread after African American inventor and hairdresser Lyda Newman patented an improved hairbrush design with synthetic bristles in 1898, helping make brushes more accessible and easier to manufacture.

What Science Says About Brushing and Hair Damage

One of the most persistent beliefs in hair care is that brushing stimulates faster hair growth. However, salon professionals interviewed by BBC Future said there is no evidence that increased brushing accelerates hair growth.

Research examining hair fibers suggests that excessive mechanical stress can contribute to damage. Scientists studying how hair strands react when tangled and pulled apart found that repeated grooming can create structural weaknesses that may lead to split ends and breakage.

Engineering researcher David Taylor of Trinity College Dublin noted that the force applied during brushing appears to be more significant than the number of brush strokes themselves. Hair can experience strain when knots are aggressively removed, increasing the likelihood of damage over time.

At the same time, researchers emphasize that everyday brushing is only one factor among many. Chemical treatments, bleaching, heat styling, and other intensive hair practices generally have a greater impact on overall hair condition than routine brushing.

Why Regular Brushing Still Has Benefits

Despite concerns about overbrushing, experts interviewed in the report stressed that brushing itself is not harmful when done carefully.

Regular grooming helps prevent severe tangles from developing and can reduce the need for forceful detangling sessions that place stress on hair strands. It also assists in removing shed hairs, dead skin cells, and debris that can accumulate on the scalp.

For many people, the goal is not frequent brushing but consistent and gentle maintenance. Keeping hair manageable through routine care may help minimize breakage caused by large knots and matting.

Matching Technique to Hair Type

Experts cited in the BBC Future report highlighted that hair texture plays a major role in determining the best brushing routine.

People with straight or wavy hair are generally advised to brush regularly but avoid brushing when hair is wet, as moisture temporarily weakens the protective outer layer of the hair shaft and can increase vulnerability to breakage.

For those with curly, coily, or tightly textured hair, the guidance is often different. Researchers studying textured hair note that these hair types have distinct structural properties and may be more prone to dryness and tangling. As a result, detangling is typically recommended during washing or while hair is damp and conditioned rather than when it is dry.

Chemistry and biochemistry professor Michelle Gaines of Spelman College, whose work focuses on textured hair, has found that differences in hair structure may influence strength, moisture retention, and susceptibility to damage. She also emphasized the importance of using products that help reduce friction during detangling.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Brush

Hair-care specialists say the effectiveness of brushing depends not only on frequency but also on the brush itself.

Flexible detangling brushes are commonly recommended for wet hair because they reduce pulling and tension. For dry hair, softer bristle brushes can help distribute natural oils along the hair shaft while minimizing irritation to the scalp.

Modern brush designs continue to evolve as researchers and product developers seek ways to balance detangling efficiency with hair protection. The ongoing interest reflects a broader understanding that healthy hair care relies on reducing unnecessary stress on individual strands.

While myths about nightly brush counts remain part of beauty folklore, current research points toward a simpler conclusion: healthy brushing habits are less about numbers and more about understanding individual hair needs.

Tags: Hair Care, Hair Brushing, Hair Health, Beauty Habits, Hair Science, Split Ends, Hair Grooming, Curly Hair Care, Hair Brushes, Personal Care, BBC Future, Healthy Hair

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Researchers say participating in group activities—from fire-walking festivals to sports events—triggers “we mode,” a shared physiological and emotional experience. Experts highlight ways to tap into this collective joy to enhance well-being and social bonds.

The Science Behind Collective Joy

In San Pedro Manrique, Spain, residents annually walk across hot coals while crowds cheer, a ritual that sparks feelings of intense togetherness. Observers and participants alike report a shared sensation, as if the group itself becomes one entity. Cognitive anthropologist Dimitris Xygalatas of the University of Connecticut describes this phenomenon as “collective effervescence,” a concept first studied by French sociologist Emile Durkheim over a century ago.

Xygalatas has witnessed similar experiences in sports stadiums, where fans chanting and cheering in unison report comparable feelings of connection. “These are moments when individual emotions converge, creating a shared, contagious energy,” he said.

Physiological Synchrony and ‘We Mode’

The shared experience of collective joy, also referred to as physiological synchrony, can have measurable effects on the body. Researchers like Xygalatas have monitored participants’ heart rates and facial expressions during rituals and sports events. Results show that people’s physiological responses synchronize, from heartbeats to endorphin levels. Fans attending games in person experience stronger synchronization than those watching remotely, demonstrating the unique effect of shared physical presence.

Stanford University health psychologist Kelly McGonigal calls this shared state “we mode,” where positive emotions become infectious. “Expressions often act as aerosolized joy,” she explained. “You catch other people’s smiles, laughter, and energy, which amplifies your own feelings of happiness.”

Why Participation Matters

To experience collective joy fully, active engagement is essential. Passive observers rarely achieve the same effect. McGonigal notes that moving, cheering, clapping, or singing amplifies the emotional impact. Physical presence and interaction allow signals to transmit among participants, creating the shared state that underpins “we mode.”

Dimitris Xygalatas emphasized the importance of synchrony in rituals: “When we dress alike, move alike, and feel alike, our brain mechanisms for emotion and bonding are triggered.” He adds that shared activities are crucial for psychological well-being, providing a sense of belonging and connection.

Activities That Encourage ‘We Mode’
Experts suggest several types of group experiences that naturally foster collective joy:

Physical Group Activities
Exercise classes, team sports, and dancing encourage movement and social interaction. The more participants move together, the stronger the physiological and emotional synchrony.

Vocal Expression
Cheering, chanting, or singing in unison creates emotional resonance. Large crowds at concerts or sports events often report heightened excitement and shared euphoria.

Rituals and Festivals
Cultural or religious events, such as fire-walking ceremonies or processions, produce intense collective effervescence. Shared risk, anticipation, and celebration amplify the sense of unity.

Letting Go of Self-Consciousness
Engagement requires participants to set aside embarrassment and immerse themselves in the activity. “You’ve got to do the wave at a sporting event or shout in unison during a class,” McGonigal said. Active participation is key to tapping into the full effect.

Practical Benefits of ‘We Mode’

Research indicates that experiences of collective joy boost psychological and physical health. Participants often report increased happiness, reduced stress, and stronger social bonds. Endorphin release during synchronized activity reinforces these positive effects, fostering both individual and communal well-being.

McGonigal highlights that cultivating “we mode” in daily life can enhance resilience and emotional health. Whether attending a local sports game, joining a dance class, or participating in community rituals, shared activity provides tangible benefits beyond momentary excitement.

Harnessing Collective Joy Safely

While large group events can spark powerful experiences, experts recommend mindful engagement. Focus on in-person interactions, prioritize inclusivity, and ensure physical safety during active participation. The goal is a sustainable sense of connection, rather than fleeting exhilaration.

By intentionally participating in shared activities that combine movement, vocal expression, and presence, people can tap into “we mode” regularly, creating a recurring source of joy and connection.

Source: AP News – Move. Cheer. Dance. Do the wave. How to tap into the collective joy of ‘we mode’

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Maintaining strength, sleep quality, metabolic balance, and cognitive resilience in your 70s may depend far more on decisions made in your 30s than many people realise. Researchers studying ageing say this decade is a pivotal period when subtle shifts in muscle mass, bone density, inflammation, and daily behaviours begin to accumulate. Those small changes, they argue, can either support healthy ageing or contribute to challenges later in life.

Scientists from ageing institutes in the US and Europe say that while healthy choices at any age are beneficial, people in their 30s are uniquely positioned to reinforce habits that protect long-term health.

Building a Stronger Physical Foundation in Your 30s

Many researchers point to master athletes — adults aged 35 and older who compete in sports well into their 60s and 70s — as a model of what is possible. Studies show these athletes often maintain a higher peak in muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and cardiovascular function compared with the general population.

According to Paul Morgan, a senior lecturer in nutrition and metabolism at Manchester Metropolitan University, these individuals develop a “reserve” that helps delay physical decline. By reaching a higher peak in strength, agility, and mobility in early adulthood, they may sustain independence longer in later life.

Experts say people do not need to train at an elite level to gain similar benefits. Moderate, consistent physical activity that targets cardiovascular health, flexibility, and lower-limb strength can significantly reduce the risk of falls after age 70. Falls remain one of the most common causes of injury among older adults worldwide.

Sports and activities that blend movement, balance, and endurance — such as tennis, badminton, and cycling — consistently appear in studies linking exercise with longer life expectancy. A 2025 study from Japan found that older adults who cycled regularly were less likely to require long-term care or face early mortality.

Running has also been associated with slower age-related decline when performed moderately. Some researchers caution that extreme endurance events, such as frequent marathons, may carry separate health risks, but evidence in this area is still evolving.

For most people, experts emphasise that small but regular activity is more sustainable than intense training blocks. A study found that five minutes of moderate to vigorous movement each day was enough to help support healthier brain ageing.

Aditi Gurkar, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, says even simple habits can make a meaningful difference. “A brisk 15-minute walk after a meal can help regulate metabolism and support long-term health,” she says.

Strengthening the Brain Through Daily Habits

Healthy ageing is not only physical — the choices people make in their 30s can benefit their brains for decades. One area receiving growing attention is dental health. Studies have repeatedly linked periodontal disease, a gum condition associated with inflammation, to increased risks of cognitive decline in later life. Researchers believe that chronic inflammation may influence the brain over time.

Reducing alcohol consumption in early adulthood is another area where experts see long-term benefits. Alcohol can interfere with sleep quality, disrupt metabolic processes, and influence gene expression related to ageing. Lower consumption in midlife has been associated with reduced risks of cognitive decline and cardiovascular disease.

Sleep, in particular, plays a powerful role in shaping long-term health. Eric Verdin, president and chief executive of the Buck Institute for Research on Ageing in California, says consistent sleep patterns — going to bed and waking at the same time daily — can help protect the brain.

“Our biology operates on a circadian rhythm that aligns with the 24-hour cycle,” Verdin says. “Regular sleep supports metabolism, cellular repair, and the motivation to maintain healthy behaviours.”

Some people even use an alarm to remind themselves to wind down for sleep — a technique Verdin supports. He acknowledges, however, that maintaining sleep regularity is challenging for parents of young children, who often face unpredictable sleep schedules in their 30s.

Nutrition Habits That Support Long-Term Ageing

Experts say the 30s are an ideal time to start approaching nutrition with greater intention. Verdin highlights giving the body longer breaks from digestion as one useful strategy, noting that intermittent fasting can support cellular repair.

While the popular 16:8 approach (fasting for 16 hours and eating within an eight-hour window) works for some, he says a 12:12 split — fasting for 12 hours and eating during the remaining 12 — provides benefits without the strict time constraints.

“When you are eating, you are building,” Verdin explains. “When you’re fasting, you’re repairing.”

Increasing fruit and vegetable intake is another well-documented way to support healthy ageing. Gurkar notes research linking higher consumption of dietary carotenoids — natural plant compounds found in sweet potatoes, carrots, mangoes, and apricots — to slower biological ageing. Carotenoids may help reduce oxidative stress, a process associated with cellular damage.

Reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods, which are often high in added sugars and preservatives, can also support metabolic health.

Why Early Lifestyle Choices Matter

Large, long-term studies such as the Framingham Heart Study and the Nurses’ Health Study offer strong evidence that healthy behaviours in midlife can influence ageing decades later. These studies suggest that adults who maintain physical activity, eat balanced diets, sleep consistently, and manage weight have lower risks of cardiovascular disease, frailty, and cognitive decline.

João Passos, a professor of physiology at the Mayo Clinic’s Kogod Center on Ageing, says lifestyle choices in the 30s can help prevent or delay the molecular changes that contribute to ageing. “We cannot stop ageing,” he says. “But we can certainly shape its trajectory.”

While many people in their 30s feel healthy and resilient, aging processes are already underway. Experts emphasise that adopting sustainable habits now — from regular movement to reduced alcohol consumption and consistent sleep — may help preserve mobility, cognitive clarity, and independence well into the later decades of life.

Source: BBC- Things you can do in your 30s to improve your health in your 70s

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Published Time 08-12-2025, 14:00

Summer picnics are a cherished way to enjoy warm days outdoors, but hungry wasps often arrive uninvited and disrupt the fun. These common insects, while sometimes viewed as pests, play vital roles in ecosystems as pollinators and natural pest controllers. Understanding their behavior can help you peacefully share your picnic without them stealing the spotlight—or your food.

Why Wasps Come to Your Picnic: Understanding Their Behavior

The wasps most likely to intrude on your picnic are usually the common yellowjacket (Vespula vulgaris) and the German wasp (Vespula germanica). These species are social insects, and worker wasps (all females) forage to bring food back to their colony’s larvae.

Their foraging habits change throughout the summer season, depending on the needs of their young. Early in the season, wasps focus on protein sources to feed their growing larvae. Later, when larvae pupate and no longer require feeding, adult wasps shift their preference toward sugary foods like nectar—or unfortunately, your sweet picnic treats.

By learning these seasonal feeding habits, you can anticipate wasp behavior and reduce the chances they’ll disrupt your meal.

Stay Calm and Still: Avoid Triggering Wasps’ Defense Mode

When a wasp approaches your picnic, sudden movements can be mistaken for threats. Wasps rely heavily on smell receptors to locate food but use visual cues to navigate once they are near. If you start waving your arms or swatting at them, this can mimic the behavior of predators, such as badgers in the UK, and provoke defensive attacks.

To avoid this, keep your mouth closed and breathe calmly to minimize carbon dioxide release—a signal that can alert wasps to danger. Staying still helps the wasp focus on gathering food rather than reacting to you.

Observe Their Choice: What Is the Wasp Eating?

Watch closely what the wasp collects from your picnic. Is she carrying away a piece of ham, a scoop of jam, or slurping from a sugary drink? This observation offers clues about what the wasp’s colony needs at that moment. The wasp is on a mission to provide specific nutrients to her larvae, so she’s very focused on her target food.

By noting what she takes, you can prepare a separate food offering to divert her attention away from your main meal.

The Simple Wasp-Offering Trick: Feed Them to Eat in Peace

One of the most effective ways to enjoy your picnic without constant wasp interruptions is to create a “wasp offering.” Once the wasp flies off with her food, place a small portion of the same food slightly away from your picnic spread. This spot becomes her go-to feeding station, keeping her—and potentially other wasps—occupied.

Over time, you can move the offering further from your eating area, reducing wasp visits near your guests. This technique is widely used worldwide, from backyard picnics to outdoor restaurants, and is backed by entomologists as a humane and practical way to coexist with these insects.

Unlike honeybees, which recruit many foragers to a food source through complex communication, social wasps are less likely to swarm in large numbers at a single site. This means a few wasps at your picnic likely arrived by chance, rather than an organized call.

Seasonal Shifts in Wasp Feeding Habits: Protein to Sugar

Wasps’ food preferences evolve as their colony develops. Early summer sees wasps hunting protein-rich foods such as insects or meat, essential for feeding their carnivorous larvae. This phase typically lasts until mid-to-late August.

As the larvae pupate and no longer need feeding, wasps shift their focus toward sugars like nectar from flowers or sweet human foods such as jam and lemonade. This shift signals the colony is entering its later stages of the season.

By understanding this seasonal change, you can better predict whether your picnic will attract wasps seeking ham or those more interested in sugary treats.

The Wasp Waist: Evolutionary Adaptation for Feeding

A distinctive feature of adult wasps is their narrow “wasp waist,” scientifically called the petiole. This constriction between the thorax and abdomen evolved to allow the wasp to bend its abdomen to paralyze prey or lay eggs in other insects.

This anatomy also limits wasps to a mostly liquid diet, as solid food is chewed and processed by larvae. The larvae in return produce a nutritious secretion that adult wasps feed on, supplementing their diet with nectar. This mutual feeding cycle helps maintain the colony’s health throughout the season.

Why Wasps Are Important: Beyond the Picnic Nuisance

While often seen as nuisances, wasps provide critical ecosystem services. They are effective predators of flies, caterpillars, aphids, and other insects considered pests by farmers and gardeners. By naturally controlling these populations, wasps contribute to healthier crops and reduced pesticide use.

Moreover, as pollinators, wasps help sustain various wild plants and flowers. With ongoing global declines in insect biodiversity, learning to coexist with wasps supports broader environmental health.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Picnics with Wasps Around

• Prepare a wasp offering early: Set aside small amounts of food wasps are targeting to divert their attention.
• Stay calm: Avoid sudden movements and loud noises to prevent triggering attacks.
• Keep food covered: Use mesh food covers when possible to reduce scent trails.
• Avoid strong scents: Perfumes and scented lotions can attract wasps.
• Clean up promptly: Remove leftovers and trash quickly to minimize food sources.

By combining knowledge of wasp biology with simple preventative measures, you can protect your picnic without harming these valuable insects.

Conclusion: Sharing Summer Meals with Wasps

Wasps may seem like uninvited guests at summer picnics, but understanding their seasonal behavior and motivations can help you peacefully coexist. A calm approach and a small “wasp offering” can keep these vital pollinators and pest controllers at bay, ensuring your outdoor meals are enjoyable for everyone.

Source: BBC – The simple trick that stops hungry wasps from ruining your picnic

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Rocinha Residents Join First Free Yoga Certification Program in Rio

RIO DE JANEIRO — A group of residents from Rocinha, Brazil’s largest favela, gathered in a mountaintop open space this week for the launch of a groundbreaking initiative: free yoga teacher training aimed at empowering low-income communities through wellness, mobility, and new career paths.

The inaugural class on Wednesday was led by none other than Krishna Das, the celebrated American musician known globally for his renditions of Hindu devotional music, or kirtan. The spiritual practice combined chanting, movement, and meditation, drawing more than 150 attendees to a rooftop venue overlooking Rio’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon.

Bringing Yoga to Brazil’s Underserved Communities

The yoga training initiative is the result of a collaboration between the Yoganaya International School and wellness company Mude. The 14-month program is designed to train around 180 yoga instructors from low-income neighborhoods across Rio and São Paulo. Graduates will go on to complete paid internships within their own communities, helping expand access to yoga and wellness practices where they are least available.

Participants are provided with stipends, uniforms, yoga mats, speakers, and microphones to support their journey. The goal, organizers say, is not just personal transformation—but to challenge the elitist image often associated with yoga in Brazil.

“People from the favelas often think yoga isn’t for them, that it’s something only for the wealthy,” said Renata Mozzini, founder of Yoganaya. “But yoga is for everyone. We’re working to burst that bubble of exclusivity.”

Stories of Healing and Hope

For many students, yoga has already changed their lives. Luciene Costa Gonzaga de Andrade, a 54-year-old hairdresser from Rocinha, joined the training after using yoga to recover from years of chronic back pain. Once reliant on a cane, she now dreams of leaving her salon behind to teach yoga full-time.

“It’s magical,” she said after chanting along with Krishna Das. “The mantras transform sadness into joy. I felt like I was in another world.”

Daniela Moraes, a 47-year-old beach vendor also training to become an instructor, said she often listened to Krishna Das on YouTube and was moved to see him perform live in her own community. “Seeing him in Rocinha made it even more special. This shouldn’t be something exclusive.”

Krishna Das Inspires Crowd with Message of Resilience

Krishna Das, born Jeffrey Kagel in the U.S., has become one of the world’s best-known ambassadors of Hindu devotional music. He was invited to the event as part of his South American tour and embraced the opportunity to connect with a new generation of yoga practitioners.

“Tonight was so rich and sweet,” he told The Associated Press. “It’s a joy to interact with them, to sing and encourage them to continue. There are so many obstacles, but also so much heart.”

As the sun set behind Rio’s peaks, attendees saluted the sky and sang in unison—a fitting symbol of a movement reaching beyond barriers, bringing healing and purpose to the places that need it most.

Source: AP News – Hindu music singer inaugurates project to spread yoga in Brazil’s favelas

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Sure, Turkey is famous for its kebabs—but Turkish cuisine is so much more than grilled meat on a stick. With a rich culinary heritage shaped by its diverse geography—spanning fertile plateaus, volcanic soil, snow-capped mountains, and Mediterranean coastlines—Turkey serves up an incredibly varied and flavorful table.

From hearty Anatolian pastries to fresh Aegean dishes and spicy Southeastern specialties, Turkish food is all about fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and a whole lot of heart. It’s no wonder they even sing about food—like in Barış Manço’s beloved song “Domates, Biber, Patlıcan” (Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants).

Here are 23 iconic Turkish dishes that go far beyond the kebab:

Vegetable-Based Favorites

1. Saksuka
Eggplant lovers, take note. This zeytinyağlı (olive oil-based) dish features sautéed eggplant cubes with zucchini, garlic, tomatoes, and a hint of chili. A rustic, hearty appetizer or side.

2. Kisir
A zesty bulgur salad loaded with tomatoes, garlic, parsley, and mint. The version from Antakya adds a kick with pomegranate molasses and chili flakes.

3. Piyaz
Antalya’s take on bean salad shines with candir beans (a local variety), tahini, lemon, vinegar, garlic, olive oil, and parsley. Some versions are topped with chopped egg.

4. Yaprak Dolma
Grape leaves lovingly hand-rolled with a mix of rice, tomatoes, onion, herbs, and olive oil. In the Aegean region, they may also contain a dash of cinnamon—a nod to Turkish Greeks.

5. Mercimek Köfte
A vegetarian treat made from red lentils, bulgur, pepper paste, and herbs. Shaped into finger-sized bites and eaten wrapped in lettuce with a splash of lemon.

Savory Pastries and Breads

6. Gözleme
A thin, pan-cooked pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Though it’s often considered simple village food, rolling the dough paper-thin is a true art.

7. Pide
Often dubbed “Turkish pizza,” this boat-shaped flatbread is loaded with fillings like spicy sausage and egg (sucuklu yumurta) or spinach and cheese. The wood-fired crust is what dreams are made of.

8. Su Böreği
The ultimate comfort food. Layers of soft, filo-like dough stuffed with white cheese and herbs, boiled then baked for a moist, buttery finish.

9. Simit
Turkey’s answer to the bagel. This sesame-crusted bread ring is a daily staple—available everywhere from street carts to ferries. Officially recognized by the Oxford English Dictionary in 2019!

10. Lahmacun
A thin round of dough topped with spiced minced meat, garlic, and tomato paste. Served with parsley and lemon. Think of it as a crispy Turkish flatbread taco.

Meat & Kebab Classics

11. İnegöl Köfte
These juicy meatballs, brought to Turkey by a 19th-century Bulgarian immigrant, are made from beef or lamb mixed only with breadcrumbs and onions. No frills—just flavor.

12. Iskender Kebab
A Bursa legend. Slices of döner meat over pide bread, soaked in tomato sauce and sizzling butter, with yogurt, grilled tomato, and peppers on the side. Decadence on a plate.

13. Çağ Kebab
From Erzurum, this horizontal spit-roasted lamb is marinated in onion, salt, and pepper, then grilled over wood fire. Typically served in flatbread with tomato and green pepper.

14. Testi Kebab
Cooked in a sealed clay jug over an open flame, this Cappadocian dish is cracked open with a hammer at the table. Inside? A stew of beef, veggies, and butter-rich flavor.

Hearty Rice Dishes

15. Hamsili Pilav
From Turkey’s Black Sea coast, this rice pilaf features anchovies layered with buttery rice, raisins, nuts, herbs, and warming spices.

16. Perde Pilav
Wrapped in pastry and baked until golden, this wedding dish from Siirt combines rice, chicken, almonds, pine nuts, and spices. Each element symbolizes good fortune and fertility.

Dumplings & Bites

17. Manti
Tiny dumplings from Kayseri filled with spiced meat and served with yogurt and chili butter. Tradition says a good cook can fit 40 manti on one spoon!

18. Çiğ Köfte
Originally made with raw beef, this southeastern favorite is now usually vegetarian, made from bulgur, tomato paste, and spices. Rolled into bites and wrapped in lettuce for snacking.

19. Ezogelin Çorba
Named after the legendary bride Ezo who tried to win her mother-in-law’s favor, this lentil soup with tomato, mint, and chili flakes is both heartwarming and hopeful.

Sweet Treats

20. Baklava
Gaziantep’s pride and joy. Dozens of paper-thin pastry sheets layered with pistachios and drenched in syrup. Best enjoyed with kaymak, Turkey’s version of clotted cream.

21. Dondurma
This ice cream from Kahramanmaraş is famously chewy, thanks to sahlep (orchid root flour) and mastic. Yes, you can eat it with a knife and fork.

22. Lokum (Turkish Delight)
A centuries-old sweet, made from sugar and starch and flavored with rosewater or pistachios. Hacı Bekir’s 19th-century version became a favorite of Ottoman sultans.

23. Ekmek Kadayıfı
A rich dessert from Afyonkarahisar, made from sponge-like bread soaked in lemony syrup and served with thick cream. Sticky, sweet, and seriously satisfying.

Final Bite

Turkish cuisine isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about heritage, hospitality, and a deep cultural connection to food. Whether you’re devouring a juicy kebab in Bursa, nibbling on baklava in Gaziantep, or sipping soup with stories behind it, every bite comes with tradition and pride.

So next time you think of Turkish food, look beyond the kebab—and get ready for a full-on flavor adventure.

Source: CNN – Turkish foods: 23 delicious dishes

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Who doesn’t dream of living well into their 90s—sharp, active, and healthy? Imagine aging like Betty White with her quick wit, channeling Toni Morrison’s eloquence, or matching Jimmy Carter’s civic drive into your golden years. While it’s easy to assume that kind of vitality depends on winning the genetic lottery, one renowned doctor says that’s not the whole story.

Dr. Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist and founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, has spent nearly two decades studying people who defy aging stereotypes. His ongoing research—the Wellderly Study—follows more than 1,400 so-called Super Agers: individuals 80 and older who’ve managed to dodge three of the most common chronic conditions—cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disease.

The Surprising Truth About Longevity

Here’s the kicker: When Topol’s team conducted full genetic sequencing on all 1,400 Super Agers, they found no universal genetic factor that explained their remarkable health.

In other words, genes aren’t your destiny.

Instead, Topol’s new book, Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity, dives into what does make the difference—and how modern science can help us live longer, healthier lives. Spoiler: it’s not magic. It’s measurable.

The Real Longevity Formula: Lifestyle + Technology

Topol points to key lifestyle habits and emerging technologies that together create the foundation for longevity:

• Diet, exercise, and sleep: These remain the pillars of healthy aging, supported by decades of research.
• Polygenic risk scores: These genetic tools help predict disease risk based on a combination of gene variants—not just one.
• Organ clocks via ‘omics’: New techniques in proteomics (analyzing all the proteins in your body) can now estimate how fast your organs are aging.
• Artificial intelligence: AI is being used to pull together all your health data—from lab tests to genetic reports—to predict and prevent disease more effectively.

While not everyone may become a Super Ager, Topol emphasizes that these tools can help extend your health span—the number of years you live free of serious illness—even if you don’t reach 100.

The Doctor’s Own Longevity Plan

Topol isn’t just talking the talk—he’s living it. Now 71, he’s made real changes to his own daily routine in the hopes of staying disease-free well into his 80s.

“I hope to be a Super Ager,” he said in a recent interview on CNN’s Chasing Life podcast with Dr. Sanjay Gupta. “If I can get another 10 or 15 years without an age-related disease, that’d be great. And I’ve really doubled down on the things that I can do to help get there.”

So What Can You Do?

You don’t need to be a scientist to take steps toward a longer, healthier life. According to Topol’s findings, focusing on the basics—moving regularly, sleeping well, eating wisely, and monitoring your health proactively—can go a long way.

And with new technology making it easier to understand and track your personal health risks, aging well might just be a science after all.

Source: CNN – Want to live to a healthy old age? Here’s what a top doctor does based on hard science

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For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world, according to the World Happiness Report 2025, released on Thursday. The rankings, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, continue to highlight the dominance of Nordic nations in global happiness, with Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden rounding out the top four.

Why Finland Remains on Top

Aino Virolainen, a Finnish digital commerce director, attributes the country’s enduring happiness to its peace, trust, and nature.

“This is where I always want to come back to and where I want to grow my kids and grow old myself. The peace, trustworthiness, direct communication, and fresh air make Finland special,” she said.

The rankings are based on self-reported life evaluations gathered in collaboration with Gallup and the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The study highlights that happiness is driven not just by economic growth, but also by trust, social connections, and a sense of community.

What Makes People Happier?

Researchers found that beyond wealth and health, some simple everyday activities contribute significantly to happiness:

• Sharing meals with others
• Having someone to rely on for emotional and social support
• Living in larger households, particularly in parts of Mexico and Europe where four to five members predict the highest happiness levels
• Believing in kindness – Trusting that others will return a lost wallet, for example, is a strong predictor of national happiness.

Alexandra Peth, a managing director, emphasized that trust and connection are core values in Finnish society.

“People trust each other in Finland, and we have systems in place that reinforce that trust,” she explained.

United States Drops to Lowest-Ever Ranking

While European countries continue to dominate the top 20, the United States has dropped to 24th place, marking its lowest position ever. This is a significant decline from its peak at 11th place in 2012.

The report attributes the decline to increasing social isolation, with the number of Americans dining alone rising by 53% over the past two decades. Similarly, the United Kingdom, ranked 23rd, reported its lowest life evaluation since 2017.

New Entrants and Global Shifts

• Israel ranked 8th, despite ongoing conflicts.
• Costa Rica and Mexico entered the top 10 for the first time, ranking 6th and 10th, respectively.
• Afghanistan remains the unhappiest country in the world, with Afghan women reporting particularly difficult lives.
• Sierra Leone and Lebanon followed as the second and third unhappiest nations.

A Concerning Trend Among Young Adults

One of the report’s most alarming findings is that nearly 19% of young adults worldwide reported having no social support in 2023—a 39% increase since 2006.

The study evaluates happiness using key indicators such as:

• GDP per capita
• Healthy life expectancy
• Social support
• Freedom and generosity
• Perceptions of corruption

What Makes Finland Unique?

Helsinki resident Jouni Purhonen describes Finns as naturally calm, allowing them to live peaceful and thoughtful lives.

“We have time to reflect and live our lives without unnecessary stress,” he said.

With trust, social connections, and a strong sense of community playing a crucial role, Finland continues to set the global standard for happiness, while other nations look for ways to bridge the growing social gaps.

Source: AP News – Finland is again ranked the happiest country in the world. The US falls to its lowest-ever position

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Starbucks is offering a rare treat on Monday: a free cup of coffee.

The giveaway comes as part of CEO Brian Niccol’s broader efforts to revamp the brand while cutting back on frequent deals and promotions. But with the nation likely feeling groggy after Super Bowl Sunday, Starbucks is making an exception.

How to Get Your Free Coffee

On Monday, February 12, members of the Starbucks Rewards program can claim one free tall-sized (12-ounce) hot or iced coffee by activating a coupon in the Starbucks app. The coupon can be redeemed in-store or through the app on the same day.

Starbucks’ Big Changes Under CEO Brian Niccol

This promotion is part of a larger transformation at Starbucks, which will be highlighted in new commercials airing before and after the Super Bowl on Fox.

• A New Advertising Campaign:
  • A 60-second commercial will showcase Starbucks baristas opening stores and writing on cups, with a voiceover saying, “The Starbucks you love is back… hello again.”
  • A 15-second ad will directly promote Monday’s free coffee offer.
• Bringing Back a Personal Touch:
  Starbucks has recently asked baristas to write personalized messages on cups—such as affirmations, well wishes, or simply “hello again”. While intended to create stronger customer connections, some employees have voiced concerns that it slows down service.
• Enhancing the In-Store Experience:
  Other updates include:
  Bringing back condiment bars for customer convenience
  Offering free refills on select drinks for those enjoying their coffee in-store
  Rebranding as “Starbucks Coffee Company” to emphasize its coffee heritage

More Changes on the Horizon

Looking ahead, Niccol is planning to streamline Starbucks’ menu by cutting 30% of its offerings. The goal? Faster service, shorter wait times, and a better customer experience.

For now, Starbucks fans can enjoy a free coffee this Monday—no strings attached.

Source

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In ski towns across the United States, a new trend is gaining traction — “earning your turns.” This laborious yet rewarding ski practice, which involves ascending mountains without the aid of ski lifts or gondolas, has been gaining popularity among skiers of all levels. What started as a backcountry pursuit is now becoming a mainstream fitness craze in ski resorts across the nation.

What is Uphilling?

“Earning your turns” refers to the act of climbing a mountain under your own power before skiing or snowboarding down. To do this, skiers use specialized gear, including bindings and boots that allow for uphill movement, paired with “skins” — synthetic fabric strips placed on the undersides of skis to provide traction. Some skiers may also hike up with their gear on their backs.

While backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering are the more extreme versions of uphill skiing, a fitness-focused version is now thriving in resort areas, attracting those looking for a good workout and a chance to enjoy fresh tracks before the lifts open for the day.

Uphill Skiing Grows in Popularity

Uphill access at ski resorts has grown significantly in recent years. According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), the number of resorts allowing uphill skiing has nearly tripled over the past decade. In the 2023/24 season, 65% of resorts permitted uphill access in some form, up from just 33% a decade ago.

At some resorts, uphill skiing is allowed only before or after regular operating hours, while others offer access throughout the day. Skiers will often see parallel tracks on the side of the mountain or zig-zagging paths in steeper terrain — all signs of a growing trend.

The Climb and Its Rewards

The concept of uphill skiing is not only about fitness but also about community and camaraderie. In towns like Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where uphill skiing has flourished, locals like Cara Marrs, a dedicated uphiller and dietitian, say it’s become a way to bond with friends.

“It’s huge, really, how much uphilling has grown,” says Marrs, who has lived in Steamboat for 27 years. The resort allows uphill access before 9 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. daily, with a $39 armband that provides access after completing a safety video and waiver.

“Back in the day, it was more for backcountry skiing. But now people are doing it for fitness,” Marrs explains.

For professional adventure skier Brody Leven, uphilling has become a social activity as much as a fitness challenge. “In the winter, the majority of the way that I and many skiers catch up with our friends is on the skin track, as we call it, which is on the hike up,” says Leven, who is a self-described “entirely human-powered” skier.

Uphill for Fitness and Fun

Uphill skiing, particularly in resort areas, is largely driven by fitness and fun. Skiers like Terrin Abell, a program manager in Breckenridge, Colorado, discovered the joy of uphilling during a full moon ski with friends. “I was hooked from the first time,” Abell says, noting how the sport blends exercise with the thrill of skiing down an empty mountain. “If you go up on a powder day, you’re going to get the most delicious, perfectly groomed first run down.”

Abell now participates in events like the Imperial Challenge in Breckenridge, which involves skiing uphill as part of a spring tradition. “I’ll be in a tutu, I’ll be in a costume. I do these things because I’m in it for the fun,” she says.

Varied Uphill Policies Across Resorts

While many resorts embrace uphilling, policies vary. Some resorts require an additional fee on top of a regular ski pass, while others charge only for a dedicated uphill pass. In places like Aspen Snowmass in Colorado, uphill skiing is permitted at certain hours and with designated routes, offering a more flexible approach.

At Snowbowl in Arizona, uphill access is free but only allowed during specific hours and on designated routes that change with snowmaking, grooming, and weather conditions. In Utah, resorts like Powder Mountain and Alta offer uphill access under varying conditions, with Powder Mountain allowing access during operating hours on designated routes.

Safety and Rules

As with any outdoor activity, safety is paramount. Before heading uphill, skiers should familiarize themselves with resort rules, including designated routes and operational hours. Always yield to downhill skiers and be mindful of grooming and snowmaking equipment. Wearing bright-colored gear enhances visibility, particularly during early morning or evening hours.

While uphilling isn’t for everyone, it offers a unique and rewarding experience for those willing to put in the effort. “The first couple of times, you’re like, ‘Why am I doing this?’” says Abell. “But then the sun comes up, and you get to the top. Then you transition and ski down, and you’re like, ‘Wow, that was the best thing ever.’”

Conclusion

Uphill skiing at US resorts has rapidly evolved from a niche activity for backcountry enthusiasts to a popular fitness trend embraced by a wide range of skiers. Whether for fitness, fun, or a sense of accomplishment, this unique way of enjoying the mountain is here to stay, offering skiers an additional reward for their efforts — fresh tracks and the rush of skiing down before the crowds.

Source

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