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The Times of India

Lifestyle / The Times of India

How to politely say 'no': 10 subtle ways, without the guilt

Lets face itturning someone down sucks. Most of us absolutely hate the awkwardness, the guilt, or the irrational fear of saying 'no', when deep down you really want to. But constantly saying 'yes' when you actually mean 'no' is a quick way to burnout.Setting healthy boundaries doesn't mean you have to become cold or confrontational. You just need a few reliable, polished phrases in your back pocket that get the point across firmly without burning your bridges.

23 May 2026 3:15 pm
10 Indian states with highest snake population and what every wildlife traveller should know about them

India is among the richest countries when it comes to snake diversity. Global scientists have documented over 300 species across the country, including king cobras and pit vipers. While there is no official government ranking as for which state has the highest number of snakes, biodiversity studies and zoological surveys identify a few Indian states as major snake hotspots because of their ecological diversity.

23 May 2026 3:13 pm
Is whey protein the reason behind your bad skin?

If youve been dealing with stubborn, unexplainable breakouts recently despite having a solid skincare routine, you might want to take a hard look inside your shaker bottle. Yep. Dermatologists are increasingly pointing their fingers at a very familiar culprit in the fitness world: whey protein.

23 May 2026 2:32 pm
5 trending bedroom designs in apartments and the moods they represent

Each of the five individual bedrooms has been designed with their own personalities and character in mind and achieved through specific combinations of materials, textures, lighting and detailing. Rather than a repetition of design language, each room brings its own mood and experience.

23 May 2026 2:00 pm
10 habits that make a woman truly stand out

A highvalue woman isnt defined by how many people want her, how attractive she is, or how much she compromises to be liked. Shes defined by how deeply she respects herself, how she carries herself, and how she chooses to spend her time and her heart. Being a highvalue woman is less about image and more about integrity, selfcare, and emotional maturity.If youre wondering what really separates a woman who knows her worth, from the rest, its usually a combination of inner strength, clear boundaries

23 May 2026 1:12 pm
5 upscale residential hotspots driving Goas luxury real estate boom

Over the years, Goa has evolved from being just a holiday hotspot into one of Indias most attractive luxury real estate destinations. With scenic coastal landscapes, modern infrastructure, and a growing demand for second homes and premium residences, the state has witnessed a remarkable rise in upscale housing developments.

23 May 2026 10:00 am
Cannes 2026 officially belongs to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan after this breathtaking second appearance in blush pink couture

If there is one thing Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has decided this Cannes season, it is that she will make the wait worth it for her fans. And with that, Aishwaryas second look from the festival is here - a blush pink couture gown by Sophie Couture.

23 May 2026 9:01 am
10 baby names that mean smart and intelligent

Choosing a baby name is a meaningful decision for every parent. Many families prefer names that symbolise intelligence, wisdom and brilliance; they reflect positive qualities and aspirations for a childs future.

23 May 2026 7:00 am
Quote of the day by Paulo Coelho: Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should...

Paulo Coelho, the celebrated author of 'The Alchemist,' emphasizes the human tendency to offer unsolicited advice while neglecting personal growth. His quote highlights the importance of self-reflection over judging others, reminding readers that each individual's life path is unique and requires personal discovery rather than external direction.

23 May 2026 7:00 am
5 most visited tourist attractions in the USA and what travellers need to know

The United States is known for being home to the worlds some of the most iconic tourist attractions. As per tourism studies, and data from organisations such as the U.S. National Park Service, places like Times Square, the Las Vegas Strip, Walt Disney World, and the National Mall are among the most visited attractions in the United States (annually).

22 May 2026 11:47 pm
5 ancient Vedic rituals believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul

Ancient Vedic traditions offered practices like Pranayama, mantra chanting, Upavasa, Snana, and Mauna to address mental and emotional exhaustion. These rituals, emphasizing discipline and intention, aimed to restore balance and inner calm by consciously controlling breath, focusing the mind through sound, practicing restraint, symbolizing purification with water, and embracing silence to observe thoughts and gain clarity.

22 May 2026 10:54 pm
Optical illusion personality test: Fish or cloud? What you see first reveals if you are too sensitive or self-critical

A quick TikTok brain-teaser reveals hidden personality traits based on whether you see a cloud or a fish first. Those spotting the cloud are tough exteriors with soft hearts, while fish-seers prioritize efficiency and are deeply self-critical. This viral illusion offers a fun, low-stakes glimpse into your inner workings.

22 May 2026 9:00 pm
How children raised by overly strict parents turn out later in life: The answer is an eye-opener

Many parents believe discipline, respect, and success can only be achieved when they raise their child with strict rules, routines, and high expectations. Even society views such adults as the ideal parents.However, more is not always better. When strictness turns into excessive control and constant criticism, the impact can be very different.In the 1960s, psychologist Diana Baumrind studied such cases where children were raised by overly-strict parents, and results the study found are quite con

22 May 2026 9:00 pm
Quote of the day for kids by Maya Angelou: You are the sum total of everything youve ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot - its all there. Everything

Maya Angelou's profound wisdom, captured in her quote about life's cumulative influence, highlights how every experience shapes us. This perspective underscores the importance of positive surroundings and learning from all interactions, fostering kindness, confidence, and individuality. Her teachings encourage embracing diversity and recognizing the unique value each person brings.

22 May 2026 8:00 pm
Ashish Nehra's luxurious Goa home is a multi-crore home designed for peaceful family living, away from fast-paced cricketing world

Ashish Nehra is in the news for all the right reasons. The former Indian cricketer and current Gujarat Titans head coach, Nehra has long been known for his fast bowling, winning performances in the 2003 World Cup, and his significant role in Indias 2011 World Cup-winning squad.

22 May 2026 7:00 pm
5 giant fish that rule the ocean

Nature is endowed with fascinating creatures that come in all sizes, from tiny sea sponges to massive manta rays that swish across the ocean.Among these amazing creatures are some massive fish that roam across the ocean and have ignited curiosity among human beings for centuries because of their size, strength, and mysterious behaviour.Here are 5 giant fish that rule across the ocean

22 May 2026 7:00 pm
10 subtle mind games people play (And how to spot them)

Real manipulation doesnt look like a cartoon villain twirling their mustache. Its way quieter than that. Usually, it shows up disguised as a super helpful coworker, a sudden midnight emergency, or a friend who just eally needs to vent.Because these moves feel completely normalsometimes even incredibly flatteringyou usually dont realize you're being played until youve already agreed to something you hate, or stayed way too long in a situation that completely drains you.Lets unmask the subtle psy

22 May 2026 7:00 pm
Gym wear to innerwear: How often should you wash your clothes

How frequently do you wash your T-shirts? What about the jeans, sportswear, or gym wear?

22 May 2026 6:16 pm
Bell Peppers vs Oranges: Which one really gives you more vitamin C?

Oranges have long enjoyed the reputation of being the ultimate vitamin C food. From school lunchboxes to cold-season advice, citrus fruits have become almost synonymous with immunity. But nutrition science tells a more surprising story.

22 May 2026 5:23 pm
Meet Sanajeh indicus: The ancient snake species that once hunted dinosaurs!

A prehistoric snake, Sanajeh indicus, discovered in India, may have preyed on baby dinosaurs during the Late Cretaceous period. Fossil evidence shows the snake coiled near sauropod eggs and a hatchling, suggesting it ambushed vulnerable young dinosaurs rather than swallowing eggs whole.

22 May 2026 5:20 pm
The home they love the most: Parenting coach shares 5 thoughtful lessons every parent should teach their child before visiting nanis home

For many of us, one of the most precious memories of our childhood was visiting our nanis (maternal grandmothers) home. The place has taught us what warmth and endless comfort mean. Times may have changed, but families visiting nanis home during summer vacations have stayed the same.For parents who are willing to raise grateful kids, this vacay is a perfect opportunity to teach children how they can give back to a place that gives them unconditional love and memories theyll cherish forever. Rece

22 May 2026 5:00 pm
Why US President Donald Trump might not attend his son's wedding: All about Donald Trump Jr's relationships

When you're the President of the United States, your family milestones don't just get handled in privatethey get balanced against global warfare and intense media scrutiny. Case in point: Donald Trump might actually skip his oldest son's wedding this weekend.When reporters point-blank asked him on May 21, 2026, if hed be making the trip down to the Bahamas for Donald Trump Jr.s wedding to Bettina Anderson, his answer was classic Trump: a mix of complaints about the fake news and a very real sche

22 May 2026 5:00 pm
Ofcom, the UKs communications and online-safety regulator, has warned kids using these popular social media platforms

UK regulator Ofcom warns social media giants are failing children. Design systems, particularly recommendation feeds, are pushing harmful content to young users. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube are cited for weak age checks and insufficient safety measures, leading to increased exposure for underage individuals. Ofcom demands concrete improvements or faces enforcement action.

22 May 2026 3:21 pm
Personality test: Open door, blue door with flowers and a pot, or plain red door? The door you choose reveals if you're adaptable, observant or highly-independent

Look, we all know a quick internet quiz isn't going to magically decode your entire psychological makeup. But let's be honestthey're incredibly hard to resist. There is something genuinely fun about a low-stakes check-in that tells you how your brain operates, especially when you're forced to make a choice on the fly.Visual tests work so well because they bypass your filter. They trick your brain into reacting before your logical mind can step in, overanalyze everything, and ruin the fun.

22 May 2026 3:09 pm
From PMAY-U 2.0 to MHADA: 6 government-backed affordable housing schemes helping Indians buy their first home

Government housing schemes in India are vital for first-time homebuyers facing high property prices and limited affordable options. Programs like PMAY-U 2.0 for urban areas and PMAY-G for rural regions, alongside state-level initiatives like MHADA and DDA, offer structured pathways to homeownership.

22 May 2026 3:02 pm
Venezuelan model, beauty queen Andrea del Val accuses celebrity stylist of assault in disturbing Cannes hotel video

Beauty queen Andrea del Val has accused celebrity stylist Giovanni Laguna of an attack during the Cannes Film Festival. A viral video shows del Val with visible injuries, claiming Laguna assaulted her. Hotel guests reportedly alerted authorities, leading to Laguna's detention for questioning. The incident has sparked widespread online discussion.

22 May 2026 2:27 pm
From Flamingos to Siberian Cranes: 6 stunning birds that migrate to India

Every year, millions of birds paint the skies with their unique colours on amazing journeys that range across continents. Some travel from the frozen tundra region of Siberia to the warm wetlands and other parts of India.While some of these birds spend summers in other colder parts of the world, extreme frozen winters become unbearable. So they migrate to the warmer parts of the world.Here are some beautiful and unique birds that migrate to India:

22 May 2026 2:00 pm
Information overload is the new parenting challenge: 5 things parents need to do to raise curious kids in the AI age

In today's AI-driven world, parents face the challenge of fostering curiosity amidst information overload. The key is teaching children to think, pause, and question rather than just consume. Emphasizing that learning takes time, encouraging verification of information, and prioritizing real-world experiences alongside digital learning are crucial steps. Ultimately, nurturing question-askers, not just answer-seekers, will equip children for the future.

22 May 2026 1:50 pm
6 ancient temple towns in India that feel frozen in time

Indias ancient temple towns are not the places you can visit with checklist. They demand you to slow down. Mornings here are divine; it starts with ringing bells and priests chanting prayers. These cities are centuries old, and they run on rituals passed down through generations.These ancient towns have some spiritual energy that makes it alive. Pilgrims stand in queue before sunrise to seek blessings, holy rivers flow on the ghats, and the belief of people make these places truly spiritual. If

22 May 2026 1:47 pm
Youre going to have to save yourself: Sanjay Dutts daughter Trishala says bullying began at 5, the parenting lesson hidden inside Trishala Dutts painful childhood

Trishala Dutt, daughter of Sanjay Dutt, reveals a difficult childhood in New York. She faced racism and bullying from a young age. The loss of her mother at eight deeply affected her. Dutt found solace in journaling and later, a pivotal conversation with her aunt empowered her. She pursued psychology and became a therapist, using her experiences to help others.

22 May 2026 12:52 pm
7 snake-rich states in India and what every wildlife traveller should know about them

India is among the richest countries when it comes to snake diversity. Global scientists have documented over 300 species across the country, including king cobras and pit vipers. While there is no official government ranking as for which state has the highest number of snakes, biodiversity studies and zoological surveys identify a few Indian states as major snake hotspots because of their ecological diversity.

22 May 2026 12:19 pm
Brown rice vs white rice vs chapati: Which is the healthiest for daily meals and weight loss?

Rice and chapati are staples in Indian meals, with health benefits varying by type, preparation, and portion size. Brown rice offers more fiber for satiety, white rice is easily digestible, and whole wheat chapati provides a balanced option. The best choice for weight loss depends on individual fullness and satisfaction, emphasizing balanced meals over isolated grain choices.

22 May 2026 12:00 pm
Thought of the day inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: The soul grows quieter when gratitude grows louder

Our minds are so overloaded with our daily tasks and jobs to fulfill that we often forget to express gratitude in our everyday lives.Our minds are constantly filled with worries, comparisons, expectations, and endless noise from work pressure and personal struggles, so saying a little thank you is even missed out.People often search for the quiet and happiness in achievements, money, validation, or distractions, but still feel restless within. But all they forget is that when they start to focus

22 May 2026 8:00 am
How to spot layoffs before the email hits your inbox, recruiter explains

Layoffs often feel sudden, but companies signal them weeks or months in advance. Recruiters highlight subtle warning signs like increased manager scrutiny, team structure discussions, and hiring freezes. Recognizing these patterns allows employees to prepare proactively, rather than reactively, to potential job cuts.

21 May 2026 11:00 pm
5 real estate hotspots near newly-opened Navi Mumbai Airport seeing massive growth

The introduction of Navi Mumbai International Airport in January 2026 has dramatically reshaped the real estate map of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Regions that were once considered peripheral have now become high-potential investment destinations, driven by multi-crores infrastructure projects including the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), Metro Line 8, and more.

21 May 2026 9:07 pm
7 summer-perfect national parks in India promising an unforgettable escape; best time to visit and more

When the summer break begins, most people start searching for an escape from crowded cities, scorching temperatures, and hectic schedules. While hill stations remain a popular choice, national parks offer something far more exciting: adventure, wildlife, fresh air, and a chance to reconnect with nature.

21 May 2026 8:37 pm
How to grow spinach at home faster than you think: Simple step-by-step guide for beginners

When we think of spinach, we are instantly hit by nostalgia and reminded of Popeye the sailor man, getting a shot of instant energy as he severed a can of the leafy vegetable.But having Spinach available right at your hand is not a distant dream, as it is one of the fastest and most easily growing vegetables you can cultivate in your home garden, whether you have a spacious backyard or just a sunny balcony.This leafy vegetable packs a high amount of nutrients, including iron, vitamins A, C, and

21 May 2026 6:45 pm
5 most enchanting villages in the UK

You cannot not bookmark these pretty villages!

21 May 2026 6:12 pm
7 coolest small towns in India to escape the summer heat in 2026

With the news constantly flashing heatwave alerts and temperature hitting the mark of 45 degrees and above, escaping the heat isn't just a luxury anymore, it feels like an absolute survival tactic. As soon as the brutal summer sets in, all we want is to chill in mountains and towns. Where the weather feels just right, and where we are not drenched in sweat all the time.

21 May 2026 6:00 pm
5 beautiful and popular aquarium fish for beginners

Bringing life and colour into your home with an aquarium is a peaceful hobby that soothes the mind and keeps creativity brewing.Freshwater fish are especially popular because theyre adaptable, survive in the aquarium, affordable, and come in stunning varieties that suit tanks of all sizes.When setting up an aquarium in your home, it is necessary to choose the right variety of fish that suits your environment, climate, and your own lifestyle.Each fish adds value to the aquarium with its beautiful

21 May 2026 5:39 pm
5 most beautiful Forget- me- not varieties to add colour to your garden

Forget-me-nots are those tiny flowering varieties that add a magic to your garden with a touch of a variety of colours and a splash of yellow in the center.Most of these varieties are adaptable biennials or plants that complete their biological cycle in around two years, returning year after year with minimal care.Here are some beautiful varieties Forget me nots to add colours to your garden:

21 May 2026 3:25 pm
8 Indian villages that feel straight out of a fairytale and are perfect for a slow travel escape

Have you ever read a fairytale and wished you could visit those dreamy places? Places that feel surreal and where time slows down. If that is your desired travel escape, these places must find a spot on your bucket list. From ancient buildings to floating islands, hanging bridges, and hidden mountain valleys, these destinations feel like they have stepped straight out of a storybook.

21 May 2026 3:00 pm
Indian Railways launches first Bharat Gaurav Tourist train to Nepal: Route, fare, itinerary and what travellers should know

IRCTC launches its first Bharat Gaurav tourist train to Nepal, connecting India to iconic destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. This 9-night, 10-day Pashupatinath Nepal Darshan Yatra from Indore offers an all-inclusive cultural and spiritual experience, boosting tourism ties. Bookings are now open for this unique cross-border journey.

21 May 2026 1:34 pm