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The Times of India

Lifestyle / The Times of India

Looking for better health? Repeat these 10 powerful affirmations every day

Healthy habits are often neglected until well-being starts declining. Positive affirmations can replace self-criticism with gentle encouragement. These daily reminders help shift focus towards self-care and progress. Making small healthy choices consistently builds overall well-being over time. Recognizing one's worthiness of good health is fundamental.

8 Jul 2026 11:32 pm
No hotels, endless food, and family everywhere: Canadian woman shares what shocked her after marrying a Pakistani man

A Canadian woman shared surprising everyday cultural differences after marrying a Pakistani man. She learned new family relationship terms and embraced WhatsApp for communication. The extensive hospitality and abundance of food prepared for guests amazed her. Staying with relatives instead of hotels became a common practice for visitors. News travels remarkably fast within the interconnected community, she noted.

8 Jul 2026 10:33 pm
Will speaking two languages confuse my child?: Pediatrician busts the most common bilingual parenting myth

Raising bilingual children does not cause confusion or speech delays. Experts confirm that speaking your mother tongue helps build language foundations. Mixing languages is a normal sign of bilingual development and fluency. Total vocabulary in bilingual children is often the same or greater. Bilingualism offers a gift connecting children to family and the world.

8 Jul 2026 10:25 pm
Walking every day? These 3 additions can make it even better for your heart

You do not necessarily need strenuous exercise or fancy equipment to look after your heart in a better way. If walking is part of your daily activities, some simple modifications will enable you to make the most of each walk you take. Whether it involves altering the speed, inclining the terrain, or involving additional muscle exercises. Let's take a look at some additional ways to take care of your heart without exceeding the assigned time limit in your day, and even more beneficial.

8 Jul 2026 10:07 pm
Suhagrat Express goes viral after 1st AC train coupe is transformed into a wedding suite; internet asks, Who allowed this?

A decorated railway coupe, resembling a wedding suite, has gained significant social media attention. The compartment featured balloons, rose petals, and fairy lights, earning it a unique nickname. This unusual setup was shared by an event decoration service provider from Jalna. Internet users shared varied reactions, with some praising the idea and others questioning its approval. The railway administration's stance on such decorations remains unconfirmed by the publication.

8 Jul 2026 8:44 pm
7 cool nicknames for your pet Golden Retriever

Choosing a fitting nickname is an important step for new pet owners. Golden Retrievers possess friendly and loyal characters, making them popular companions. Names like Sunny and Goldie reflect their appearance and cheerful disposition. Buddy and Scout suit their faithful and curious natures, respectively. Honey and Teddy are also fitting choices for these gentle, fluffy dogs.

8 Jul 2026 8:00 pm
British traveller calls this the 'biggest scam in India' after visiting Meghalaya's cleanest village

A British traveler's viral reel showcases Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village in Meghalaya. This village challenges common perceptions about India's waste management practices. Residents actively maintain cleanliness through daily sweeping and designated waste disposal areas. Mawlynnong, known as God's Own Garden, closes every Sunday for upkeep. The reel has garnered appreciation for highlighting this lesser-known aspect of India.

8 Jul 2026 7:20 pm
10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by stars and the sky

The night sky has inspired poets, dreamers and storytellers for centuries. Filled with shimmering stars, glowing moons and endless constellations, it also offers timeless inspiration for baby names. If you're looking for a name that reflects beauty, hope and a sense of wonder, these celestial-inspired choices blend meaningful origins with an elegant charm that can grow with your little one. Here are ten such names inspired by stars and the sky:

8 Jul 2026 7:00 pm
'Aaj kaam hi nahi tha, wait kar raha tha kaam ke liye': 56-year-old laid off after 14 years now works as a delivery rider; story goes viral

A Noida parcel delivery sparked conversations about the current job market. The delivery partner, a man in his mid-50s, shared his layoff experience. He had worked for fourteen years at an insurance company before losing his job. Finding new full-time employment proved difficult due to his age and health. This led him to work as a gig delivery partner for a platform.

8 Jul 2026 6:32 pm
From carpets to mattresses: 7 Smart ways to use baking soda for cleaning everyday household items

A box of baking soda is something every household has and can be used in a lot of different cleaning and deodorising activities. This white powder does wonders for a number of items in your home if you use it in a proper way. Baking soda is not the best tool for special-purpose cleaning but is perfect to use in a regular cleaning process in order to keep your home spotless and fresh. Here are seven practical ways to use baking soda to keep common household items cleaner and fresher.

8 Jul 2026 6:00 pm
Gauranga Das's leadership lesson from the Mahabharata is exactly why some bosses are feared, and others are followed: Here are 4 simple ways to lead with impact

True leadership stems from how people feel around you, not just holding a position. Gaur Gopal Das contrasts Duryodhana's authority with Krishna's genuine influence. Effective leaders foster safety and growth, making others feel valued. They give credit generously and stand by their teams during difficult times. Ultimately, leadership is earned through consistent character and earned trust.

8 Jul 2026 6:00 pm
Monsoon pest control: Natural ways to keep cockroaches, ants and flies away

Monsoon season brings insects into homes seeking shelter and warmth. Harsh chemical sprays are not ideal for families and pets. Natural methods effectively deter pests by removing their food and water sources. Kitchen discipline and sealing food containers are crucial for pest prevention. Blocking entry points and removing standing water also significantly helps.

8 Jul 2026 5:00 pm
Quote of the day by BK sister Shivani: People can do what we want them to do, and be the way we want them to be, but it does not mean they love us. There can be someone who is the opposite of how we want them to be. Because they carry different sanskars, but they truly love us. Let us not equate Love with Expectations.

Unmet expectations often lead us to question love from close ones. BK Sister Shivani teaches that actions reflect sanskars, not affection levels. People may act differently due to their unique conditioning and life experiences. We should not equate love with the fulfillment of our personal expectations. This perspective helps distinguish disappointment from genuine care in relationships.

8 Jul 2026 4:59 pm
Psychologist-approved parenting quote of the day: For children, play is serious learning. Its the work of childhood.

Childhood today is overly scheduled, limiting essential free play opportunities. Psychologist Jonathan Haidt emphasizes that free play is serious learning for developing brains. Children practice real-life skills and learn world mechanics through self-directed activities. This unstructured time strengthens decision-making, creativity, and resilience in young minds. Parents should encourage free play by providing time, space, and freedom to explore.

8 Jul 2026 4:48 pm
World War II veteran celebrates 105th birthdayand shares the longevity habits behind her remarkable life

Ivy Meenan, a World War Two veteran, celebrated her 105th birthday on July 6, 2026. She served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during the war, identifying enemy bombers. Ivy met her late husband, Johnnie, while serving in Cornwall. She attributes her long life to a happy marriage and good relationships. Her milestone birthday was a tribute to her service and a celebration of her life.

8 Jul 2026 4:24 pm
How to meditate: A step-by-step guide for beginners

If you're new to meditation, here's a practical step-by-step guide that focuses on building a habit rather than trying to achieve perfection.

8 Jul 2026 4:02 pm
5 innocent-sounding phrases that can leave a bad impression on your co-workers

Words carry more importance than we may realise. A seemingly harmless phrase to one person may seem dismissive, defensive, or even insensitive to another person. Communication experts note that in workplaces, among friends, and in families, most misunderstandings happen not because of ill intentions but due to the interpretation of particular words. Being informed about potentially harmful phrases can help make conversations more fruitful and build healthy relationships. Here are five phrases th

8 Jul 2026 4:00 pm
A 2-year-old joined her Russian gymnast mom on stage: What happened next left the audience in awe

Svetlana Putintseva, a former world champion gymnast, performed with her young daughter. Her daughter Masha joined the routine, which was likely planned. The performance beautifully reflected the daily balance many mothers achieve. It showed strength and love as part of a woman's identity. This moment continues to inspire millions worldwide.

8 Jul 2026 3:46 pm
Mumbai's Powai Lake is becoming this monsoon's most unexpected wildlife attraction, thanks to the Mugger crocodiles emerging after heavy rains

Powai Lake in Mumbai is experiencing increased mugger crocodile sightings after heavy monsoon rains. Rising water levels are pushing these protected reptiles closer to the shoreline for basking. This urban wetland also attracts diverse migratory and resident bird species during the monsoon season. Visitors can enjoy photography and long walks while admiring the natural surroundings from a safe distance.

8 Jul 2026 3:28 pm
Katrina Kaif is away from social media for over a month, and it is silently giving us major lessons on how to be a mom away from social media

Embracing the joys of motherhood, Katrina Kaif prioritized her family's privacy after welcoming her son Vihaan. She consciously minimized her social media presence and announced her son's name weeks later to protect his identity. As she gradually resumed public engagements, she maintained a clear focus on balancing personal comfort and family connections in her life.

8 Jul 2026 3:13 pm
From Rajma to Rajgira: 7 delicious Indian food items that have more calcium than milk per 100 grams; alternatives for plant-based and diary-free diets

For years, milk has been hailed as one of the best sources of calcium and considered an important food for health. In the culinary sector, there are many other foods, such as seeds, whole grains, legumes, leafy vegetables, and dried fruits, that have much more calcium in them per 100 grams of serving than milk. From rajma to curry leaves, many alternatives can help you achieve your goals in your diet. An award-winning nutritionist and author, Lovneet Batra, shared insightful options on her socia

8 Jul 2026 3:02 pm
How to cover two prominent Jyotirlingas in just one trip

Visiting paired Jyotirlinga temples offers efficient and enriching spiritual journeys. These combinations save time and money while exploring India's rich culture. The article suggests five such pairs, including Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh. It also highlights Somnath and Nageshwar in Gujarat, and Kashi Vishwanath and Baidyanath in Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. Planning ahead ensures a comfortable and fulfilling pilgrimage experience for all travellers.

8 Jul 2026 2:08 pm
9 morning rituals that help high achievers and successful people stay ahead every day

Productivity and success don't begin at your desk in the morning; they start before you get there. Although all successful people have a slightly different routine, according to productivity experts, morning routines are vital to focus, decrease stress, and develop momentum for the rest of the day. From keeping hydrated to identifying priorities, small routines performed daily may change a lot in the long run. Here are nine simple morning habits that many high achievers incorporate into their ro

8 Jul 2026 2:00 pm
Inside 'Gaadi Ghar': This unique Uttarakhand earth home has an abandoned SUV entrance, a living grass roof and zero cement

An abandoned SUV serves as the unique entrance to Gaadi Ghar, an earth house in Uttarakhand. This sustainable dwelling was constructed using only natural and recycled materials, challenging conventional building methods. Thick earthen walls provide passive cooling and heating, regulating the home's internal temperature naturally. Architect Shagun Singh founded Geeli Mitti to promote such eco-friendly construction techniques across India.

8 Jul 2026 1:50 pm
This is no country for women; Indian female travel bloggers solo expedition reveals the Afghanistan tourists rarely get to see

Indian travel creator Sharanya Iyer documented her solo journey through Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. She explored dramatic mountains and met locals to understand their culture. Her trip raised questions about whether tourism legitimizes the Taliban regime. Iyer argued that boycotts hurt ordinary citizens and local economies. She emphasized that responsible tourism can potentially aid citizens in difficult nations.

8 Jul 2026 1:49 pm
Sudha Murthy's leadership lesson of the day: Leadership is not a position or a luxury, but it is all an impartial and impersonal responsibility and influence

Dr. Sudha Murty emphasizes humility and kindness in leadership roles. She believes true success lies in helping those in need. Positions of power are transient and should not be flaunted. Being a good human being is more important than achieving ranks. This leadership lesson highlights the essence of character over achievement.

8 Jul 2026 1:11 pm
Quote of the day by Jay Shetty: When your focus is service, you'll never need a break; What monk turned podcaster says about two types of energy engines fueling our work

Jay Shetty suggests service fuels work without requiring breaks. Focusing solely on success can lead to burnout and disappointment. Service offers intrinsic rewards through helping others directly. This approach provides continuous motivation and fulfillment in daily tasks. People who focus on service find purpose and avoid exhaustion.

8 Jul 2026 9:32 am
Erling Haaland shares his love for Butter Chicken and naan: Is it the secret ingredient behind his power-packed performance?

Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland follows a strict diet of whole foods and organ meats. He consumes approximately six thousand calories daily to fuel his powerful performances. Haaland also admits to enjoying Indian cuisine, specifically mentioning lamb chops and butter chicken. Garlic naan is another favorite dish which he enjoys indulging in. This revelation has delighted Indian football fans across social media platforms.

8 Jul 2026 8:18 am
Tulsi vs Pudina: Health benefits of two herbs from the same plant family

Some of the herbs most commonly found in Indian kitchens are Tulsi and pudina. The scented leaves, simplicity of cultivation, and regular use in meals have made these two herbs common in household kitchen gardens for many years. Despite being part of the same botanical familyLamiaceae (mint), these two herbs have significant differences when it comes to taste, smell, nutrition, and traditional use. Understanding these differences will help you to know which herb suits your requirements. Here are

8 Jul 2026 7:56 am
5 powerful spiritual practices that can strengthen your soul from within

It is something that is built through everyday choices. And often, those choices are far less dramatic than people imagine. Here are five practices that have stood the test of time.

7 Jul 2026 11:58 pm
There's only one U.S. state that starts with the letter 'G' and it's hosting FIFA World Cup matches; here's why you should visit

Georgia, the only US state starting with G, is hosting FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium will see a high-profile Argentina versus Egypt game. This event draws thousands of football fans and travelers to the state. Georgia offers a blend of urban attractions and natural beauty for visitors. Popular destinations include Atlanta, Savannah, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

7 Jul 2026 11:48 pm
Video: Bengaluru couple reveals how they invest 1.7 lakh every month; internet has plenty of questions

A Bengaluru couple's monthly investment of 1.7 lakh has gained significant online attention. They shared details of their diverse financial instruments and investment habits on social media. The couple explained their systematic investment plan and other investment avenues. Their post generated mixed reactions, with some seeking more information and others questioning its feasibility. Many users also commented on the relevance of such financial goals for different income levels.

7 Jul 2026 10:52 pm
Meet Hindumbi Kaurom Kakkada, the nurse who delivered babies by candlelight, crossed stormy seas to save lives, and became Lakshadweep's silent hero

Hindumbi Kaurom Kakkada served Lakshadweep's remote islands for decades. She faced challenges like emergency deliveries under candlelight and dangerous sea journeys. Kakkada's commitment ensured patient care with limited resources. She received the 2023 Florence Nightingale Award for her quiet service. This honour recognized her unwavering dedication to healthcare in difficult settings.

7 Jul 2026 9:13 pm
'Salary gets debited before it even arrives': Gurgaon woman's work-life video strikes a chord online

Many working professionals express feeling trapped in a repetitive daily cycle. Their weeks are consumed by work, chores, and sleep, leaving no time for relaxation. Expenses and bills consume salaries, preventing any luxury or leisure activities. This sentiment is widely shared online by individuals experiencing similar struggles. The feeling of being stuck in a loop resonates deeply with many employees today.

7 Jul 2026 9:08 pm
Fighter by day, security guard by night: Meet Vicky Singh Tomkyal, MMA fighter who chases his dreams with bare minimum

Vicky Singh Tomkyal trains rigorously for MMA while working as a security guard. He dedicates his earnings to family and skill improvement, not luxuries. Tomkyal shares his journey and training methods on social media with many followers. He expresses happiness and commitment to pursuing his dreams in India. Tomkyal urges public support for all sports and athletes in the country.

7 Jul 2026 8:38 pm
When he was being mocked for his 2014 World Cup haircut, Cristiano Ronaldo was actually honouring a baby's fight for life

Cristiano Ronaldo's 2014 World Cup haircut featured a zig-zag design. This hairstyle reportedly symbolized a young boy's recovery from a serious brain condition. Ronaldo allegedly covered the child's extensive medical treatment costs. The gesture provided significant financial relief to the struggling family. This act of kindness continues to inspire many fans globally.

7 Jul 2026 8:11 pm
Virat Kohli lookalike walks into mall with bodyguards; shoppers rush for selfies before realising the truth

A social media creator resembling Virat Kohli visited a mall, causing significant shopper confusion. Many people gathered, mistaking him for the famous cricketer and seeking selfies. The creator, Kartik Sharma, had meticulously replicated Kohli's distinctive hairstyle and tattoos. This prank sparked online debate, with some finding it entertaining and others concerning. Concerns were raised about potential safety hazards and misleading fans with the elaborate deception.

7 Jul 2026 7:31 pm
From kala tika to nazar battu: 7 traditions believed to protect against the evil eye

Many people follow traditions to protect themselves from nazar, which is believed to invite negative energy. Applying a kala tika and performing nazar utarna rituals are common protective measures. Keeping nazar protection symbols and beginning the day with prayer offer spiritual defense. Maintaining a clean home and staying humble also help ward off ill will. Surrounding oneself with positive people strengthens well-being and peace of mind.

7 Jul 2026 7:07 pm
Bengaluru corporate employee reveals 45,000 monthly expense breakdown; internet can't agree if she's overspending

A Bengaluru corporate employee shared her monthly expenses totaling approximately forty-five thousand rupees. Her budget includes rent, groceries, travel, and personal spending categories. This detailed breakdown revealed significant costs associated with city living. Social media users offered varied perspectives on her spending habits. The post highlights the financial realities faced by young professionals in large cities.

7 Jul 2026 5:25 pm
Realistic potty training guide: A 3-day kick-start to help your toddler learn

Potty training toddlers involves introducing the seat and recognizing body signals. Building a consistent routine at home aids children's confidence and control. Practicing outside the home transfers new skills into everyday life. Occasional reminders are better than constant questioning during outings. Parents should focus on building this lifelong habit at their child's pace.

7 Jul 2026 5:24 pm
She made me not leave Google: How Sundar Pichai on his beautiful love story and how wife Anjali helped him become the Google CEO

Sundar Pichai and Anjali Haryani met at IIT Kharagpur, forming a friendship and later a relationship. Their bond endured distance and lack of modern communication methods after college. Anjali encouraged Sundar to remain at Google, influencing his career trajectory significantly. She has also built her own professional career while maintaining privacy. Their story highlights companionship and belief during uncertain times.

7 Jul 2026 5:01 pm
Psychology says parents who let children struggle before stepping in aren't being unsupportive; they're giving them the chance to build problem-solving confidence

Allowing children to navigate challenges, with timely parental support, fosters crucial developmental skills. This 'productive struggle' approach, rooted in Vygotsky's theories, builds self-confidence and resilience, unlike constant intervention which can hinder persistence. Experts advocate for guided exposure to difficulty, emphasizing that supportive struggle is distinct from neglect, ultimately preparing children for future independence and success.

7 Jul 2026 5:00 pm
14-year-old Hindi-medium student cracks JEE Advanced: What parents can do differently to nurture a child's talent

A 14-year-old achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the JEE Advanced exam. He prepared for one year through an online Hindi-medium batch. This young achiever skipped two grades, requiring special permission for his education. His success underscores the importance of encouraging curiosity and individual learning paces. Parents can foster growth by supporting emotional well-being and celebrating effort.

7 Jul 2026 5:00 pm
Her husband locked her inside a windowless house for 15 years: Meet Sonabai Rajwar, who turned her prison into a museum and pioneered clay art in Chhattisgarh

Sonabai Rajwar pioneered a unique clay art form from her isolated home. Her creations, initially for her son, gained international acclaim and recognition. Researchers discovered her talent, leading to exhibitions and prestigious art awards. She received the Tulsi Samman and the National Award for Master Craftsperson. Her artistic legacy continues to inspire the Rajwar community in Chhattisgarh.

7 Jul 2026 4:59 pm
PlayStation 6 will cost 1.3 lakh rupees? Here's what reports say about price hike in raw materials and AI

PlayStation's next-generation console, the PS6, may see a significant price increase. Manufacturing costs for essential hardware components are reportedly rising sharply. These components are now in high demand for AI data centers, affecting production. This trend has already impacted PlayStation 5 sales and console availability. The PS6 is anticipated to launch in late 2027 with higher retail prices.

7 Jul 2026 4:58 pm
This Gujarat couple is building cement-free homes in just 15 days using industrial waste and they cost only 7 lakhs

A Gujarat-based startup is building homes without using cement. Co2ncrete transforms industrial waste into sustainable building blocks for construction. This innovative approach allows homes to be completed rapidly within fifteen to thirty days. These eco-friendly houses are also affordable, costing approximately seven lakh rupees. The company recycles hundreds of kilograms of waste daily, building over 450 homes.

7 Jul 2026 4:35 pm
Hummingbirds are pineapples' best friends: Tiny birds who helped 'speed up' the fruit's family evolution

Hummingbirds play a crucial role in accelerating the evolution of bromeliads, leading to a faster emergence of new species. This vibrant bird species serves as pollinators for a staggering three out of four studied bromeliad types. Furthermore, geographical factors have contributed significantly to the diversification of these plants over time.

7 Jul 2026 4:30 pm