The gap between those who can access and use digital technology and those who can't
We all know this, but it's worth repeating: the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. Aim for at least five servings (400 grams) of fruits and vegetables daily.
We all say we want to save more money, but are we truly honest with ourselves about why? Financial expert Nicole Dieker Finley recommends setting specific and realistic financial goals. For example, saving enough to start your own business. Once you understand your "why," you can create a concrete plan to achieve your financial goals.
Spending time outdoors, especially during shorter winter days, offers numerous health benefits. Sunlight exposure promotes vitamin D production, essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Outdoor activities also boost immunity, enhance mental clarity, and help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
Sources: (WHO) (Vox) (The Guardian) (The Independent) (The Irish Times)
See also: The science of habits—Change is easier than you think
Research has consistently shown that creativity can effectively relieve stress and anxiety, while also alleviating feelings of shame, anger, and depression. Exploring your creative side, whether it's rediscovering an old hobby, pursuing a childhood passion, or trying something new like pottery, sewing, carpentry, or painting, can significantly improve your overall well-being.
Often called the "silent killer," hypertension can affect people of all ages, including younger adults. Many individuals are unaware they have high blood pressure because it often presents with no noticeable symptoms. Left unchecked, hypertension can significantly increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other conditions.
Instead of dwelling on the past and asking "what if?" questions, we can use regret as a powerful tool for growth. Examine your past choices within the context of your life at that time. Why did you make those decisions? What factors influenced your choices? By reflecting on your regrets, you can gain valuable insights and envision what you would do differently.
Instead of falling back on generic small talk, spark a conversation by making a specific observation or providing a compliment. For instance, admire your host's impeccable design choices, or break the ice with someone wearing a baseball hat by sharing your love for the sport–you've instantly found common ground.
Seemingly petty arguments often mask deeper issues. Relationship experts John and Julie Gottman suggest uncovering the potential true triggers by asking the other party why an issue is so important to them and listening carefully to their response. Reflect on these questions yourself to gain a deeper understanding of the conflict.
Social media is overflowing with health hacks, some helpful, some bizarre, and some potentially dangerous. Dr. Keren Landman, a medical doctor and reporter for Vox, offers crucial advice: if a health claim sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always double-check information from unknown sources and prioritize credible medical advice.
From cable news to that one infuriating Facebook group, we're constantly bombarded with information designed to provoke anger. We know that living in a constant state of anger is harmful, but breaking this cycle requires conscious effort. Avoid actively seeking out news or social media posts that deliberately trigger your anger. Stay informed, but don't fall prey to "rage bait."
Keeping your phone out of sight will help you embrace small moments of connection.
Research shows that even the smallest social interactions, like greeting a neighbor, can significantly boost our mood and sense of connection. To foster these connections, minimize phone distractions. Professor Nicholas Epley suggests keeping your phone out of reach to encourage face-to-face interactions.
Marketing often creates the illusion that we constantly need new products to solve perceived problems with ourselves, our routines, or our health. From full-body deodorant to energy drinks, it's easy to fall prey to this. Be a critical consumer: question exaggerated claims and consider whether a product genuinely addresses a real need in your life.
Limit your daily salt intake to roughly one teaspoon (5 grams) by reducing your consumption of processed foods, salt, soy sauce, and other high-sodium condiments. Similarly, limit your intake of added sugars by choosing water and unsweetened beverages over sugary drinks. These simple steps can significantly improve your overall health.
Fats should comprise less than 30% of your daily calories, according to WHO. Limit saturated fat to under 10% and trans-fat to under 1% of your daily intake. Replace these with unsaturated fats found in sources like fish, avocados, nuts, and plant-based oils. Avoid excessive consumption of fatty meats, dairy products, processed foods, and fried foods.
Consider adopting a more mindful approach to consumption by only purchasing items when you truly need them. Excessive consumption leads to harmful emissions, contributing to increased air, water, and soil pollution. These emissions contribute to more extreme weather events and the spread of infectious diseases.
Even though the COVID-19 pandemic may seem like a distant memory, the importance of good hand hygiene remains crucial. WHO emphasizes that clean hands are essential for everyone, not just healthcare workers, in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Regular health checkups are essential for early detection and prevention of various health problems. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and increases the chances of successful recovery.
While nurturing passions as hobbies is valuable, pursuing your passions professionally can be incredibly rewarding and life-changing. If you're considering a career change but still don’t feel confident taking the leap, adult education colleges offer a wide range of courses to help you upskill and navigate this transition.
Whether your goal is career advancement or industry recognition, these credentials can give you a competitive edge in the tech sector. From learning to code to mastering the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, investing in online certifications can significantly boost your career prospects.
Many jobs today involve long periods of sitting, which Dr. Keith Diaz, a leading researcher at Columbia University, warns can significantly increase your risk of serious health problems like diabetes and heart disease and can even shorten your lifespan. While regular exercise is crucial, Dr. Diaz emphasizes that simply sitting less throughout the day is vital.
Breaking up long periods of sitting is key to good health. Experts recommend getting up and moving around at least every hour. To make this easier, Dr. Diaz suggests using everyday moments as opportunities for movement. For example, after a long meeting, take a short walk. Need to refill your water bottle? Take the scenic route to the kitchen.
While it's natural for parents to want to protect their children, allowing them to process their feelings on their own terms is crucial for their growth, emphasizes Dr. Dorsa Amir, a child development researcher at Duke University. This is especially important for boys, who often face societal pressure to suppress their emotions.
Finding the right therapist is key. Don't hesitate to explore different options until you find someone you connect with. Even highly qualified therapists may not be the best fit for you if you don't feel comfortable or connected with them. Switching therapists is perfectly acceptable and a normal part of the process.
A recent University College London study found that a single cigarette reduces life expectancy by 20 minutes, nearly double previous estimates. This translates to a loss of seven hours of life for every pack of 20 cigarettes smoked. Smoking significantly increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like lung disease, heart disease, and stroke.
The new year always brings a wave of fresh starts and renewed motivation. But with so much conflicting advice online, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. This gallery distills the wisdom of experts–therapists, researchers, dating coaches, and even the World Health Organization (WHO) – into actionable steps for a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling year.
From small tweaks to major life overhauls, these insights will guide you towards a truly transformative 2025. Let's dive in!
How to improve your life in 2025: advice from WHO and other experts
Expert-backed advice to help you thrive in 2025
LIFESTYLE New year
The new year always brings a wave of fresh starts and renewed motivation. But with so much conflicting advice online, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. This gallery distills the wisdom of experts–therapists, researchers, dating coaches, and even the World Health Organization (WHO) – into actionable steps for a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling year.
From small tweaks to major life overhauls, these insights will guide you towards a truly transformative 2025. Let's dive in!