Guidance from experts on how to make new year fitness resolutions that are sustainable and effective.

Rice is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in Iran, where perfecting its preparation is considered an art form. The article provides a detailed guide on how to cook the perfect rice, emphasizing the importance of the crispy layer at the bottom of the pan, known as tahdig. The process is described as a meaningful way for the author to connect with their Iranian heritage and share it with friends. The recipe includes optional ingredients like barberries, saffron, and various carbs to add a unique twist.

Three refugees, Grmalem from Eritrea, Kholoud from Syria, and Tina from Nigeria, share their personal stories of adversity and the lessons they would impart to their younger selves. Grmalem emphasizes living in the present and maintaining faith despite hardships. Kholoud reflects on her activism during the Arab Spring and the sacrifices made for a better Syria. Tina highlights the importance of education and self-reliance, recounting her traumatic experiences of being trafficked and detained in the UK. Their narratives underscore the ongoing challenges faced by refugees and the resilience required to overcome them.

Five busy women share their strategies for incorporating exercise into their daily routines, highlighting the importance of maintaining physical fitness despite hectic schedules. The article provides personal insights and practical tips for balancing work, personal life, and health.

The iconic 'Full House' home, associated with the Tanner family, is listed for sale at $6.5 million. The interior has been updated and does not resemble the show's set.

The article explores the complex relationship Middle Eastern women have with current beauty trends that favor ethnically ambiguous features. It discusses how Western approval of certain Middle Eastern aesthetics has led to a conflicted sense of empowerment among women from the region. Despite some features being celebrated, others, like the Middle Eastern nose, remain stigmatized. The piece highlights the ongoing influence of Eurocentric beauty standards and the cultural pressures that drive Middle Eastern women to alter their appearances. It also touches on the historical and social contexts that shape these beauty ideals, questioning the long-term implications of these trends.

The article debunks five common historical myths, with insights from various UK-based academics. It clarifies that the longest ancient wall is the Great Wall of Gorgan, not the Great Wall of China or Hadrian's Wall. It also discusses the Crusades' impact on cultural exchanges between Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities, contrary to the common belief of only conflict. The piece challenges the notion that British history is solely the history of white people, highlighting the diverse ethnicities that have influenced the UK. It addresses the lasting impact of colonialism on contemporary society, particularly in the UK and India, and refutes the misrepresentation of queer history in India. Lastly, it explains nationalism as a social construct rather than an inherent feeling, created by states and political apparatus in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The article discusses the evolving trends in cosmetic surgery and how they reflect changing beauty standards, particularly for women of color. It highlights the shift from the 2000s' preference for slim, blonde figures to the 2010s' celebration of curves and features associated with women of color, such as larger buttocks and fuller lips. The piece examines the impact of these trends on women's self-perception and the potential issues of cultural appropriation and fetishization. It also notes the booming aesthetic industry, with procedures like 'fox eye' threadlifts and Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs) gaining popularity. The article includes perspectives from various women who have experienced empowerment or frustration due to these trends, and it questions the implications for women of color when their natural features become fashionable on white bodies. The article concludes by reflecting on the broader societal and cultural influences driving these trends and the ongoing challenges they present for women's self-esteem and identity.

The article provides guidance on how to prepare for a first triathlon, drawing on the experiences of women who have completed one.

Emphasizing the importance of the savasana resting pose, the article suggests that incorporating more time in this pose can enhance the benefits of one's yoga practice in 2022.

The article features a conversation with Sarah Shemery, a PhD candidate in Social Work, discussing her research on the experiences of loneliness among single refugee and asylum-seeking mothers in the UK. It highlights the challenges faced by these women, including language barriers, lack of financial and community support, and navigating unfamiliar health systems. Sarah's work with the charity Amma, which provides birthing support and advocacy, is also discussed. The conversation touches on broader themes of racialisation, trauma-informed research, and the importance of social connections. Influential figures and works in Sarah's academic journey, such as Sara Ahmed and Audre Lorde, are mentioned.

The conversation with human rights researcher Fereshta Abbasi highlights the dire situation in Afghanistan under Taliban rule, focusing on the ongoing human rights abuses, especially against women. Abbasi shares her personal experiences of moving from Iran to Afghanistan, the challenges faced by Afghan women, and her work with Human Rights Watch. The discussion underscores the importance of international awareness and support for Afghan women and the need for continued advocacy and humanitarian efforts.

Dr Ziba Mir-Hosseini, a legal anthropologist specializing in Islamic law and gender, discusses her journey into anthropology, the impact of the Iranian revolution on her career, and the significance of Islamic feminism. She highlights her research on marriage and divorce under Islamic law, her involvement in women's rights activism, and the importance of challenging patriarchal interpretations of religion. The conversation also touches on her influential works, including books and award-winning documentaries, and her views on the current socio-political climate in Iran.

The article discusses the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals in the Middle East, who are leveraging advanced technologies like AI, deep fakes, and SIM swapping to commit fraud. It highlights the growing threat of cybercrime in the finance sector, with digital banks like Weyay in Kuwait and Rewire in Israel being particularly vulnerable. Experts from various organizations, including Deloitte, Flint Capital, Eastnets, VisionLabs, and Callsign, provide insights into the methods used by cybercriminals and the challenges in combating them. The article emphasizes the need for more cybercrime specialists and ongoing vigilance as technology continues to evolve.

The article highlights systemic racism within the NHS, focusing on the disparities in healthcare outcomes for Black people in the UK. It recounts personal experiences and expert opinions, revealing that Black patients often receive inadequate medical care due to unconscious bias and outdated medical training. The article also discusses the lack of representation of Black and ethnic minority individuals in senior NHS positions and the failure of initiatives aimed at improving race equality. It calls for decolonizing medical curricula and increasing BAME representation at the board level to address these systemic issues.

The article explores the systemic racism and healthcare inequalities faced by Black women in the UK, particularly in sexual and reproductive health services. It highlights the historical and ongoing biases that contribute to poorer health outcomes for Black women, including the hypersexualization of Black bodies and the legacy of colonial medical practices. The piece features insights from healthcare professionals like Dr. Yvonne Abimbola and Dr. Annabel Sowemimo, who advocate for decolonizing healthcare and addressing implicit biases. Personal stories, such as that of Abigail Mensah, illustrate the real-world impact of these systemic issues. The article calls for a broader understanding of the social determinants of health and the need for structural changes to achieve healthcare equity.

Medics trained by World Extreme Medicine operate in some of the world's most dangerous and remote locations, including Costa Rica, Iraq, and Ukraine. These professionals, including Taryn Anderson, Lucy Coulter, and Luca Alfatti, share their experiences of providing critical medical care under extreme conditions. The article highlights the importance of physical and mental preparation, the challenges faced in disaster zones, and the growing need for such training due to environmental challenges like climate change. Organizations like Medics4Ukraine play a vital role in delivering medical supplies and training to frontline fighters in Ukraine.

The article features a conversation with Shahed Ezaydi, focusing on her forthcoming book on intersectional feminism and gendered Islamophobia. It highlights the myth perpetuated by white feminism that Muslim men are inherently more violent, and discusses the influence of figures like Andrew Tate on Muslim men. The text also touches on recent humanitarian crises in Libya, Morocco, and Iran, and provides resources for supporting affected regions. Ezaydi shares insights into the challenges of writing and crowdfunding her book, and the importance of addressing issues within Muslim communities without reinforcing stereotypes.

Iran's Islamic regime is pushing a new 'Hijab and Chastity Bill' that would impose severe penalties on women who defy hijab laws, including fines, imprisonment, and loss of employment. This move comes amid ongoing protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Zhina Amini, who was killed for improperly wearing her hijab. The article criticizes the lack of international outrage and calls for global leaders to hold the regime accountable. It highlights past international support and stresses the importance of external pressure in supporting Iranian civil rights movements.

Mona Kareem, a poet and academic, discusses her experiences with statelessness, identity, and being Arab-American. She reflects on her family's history, the challenges of being Bedoon, and her evolving sense of identity in the US. Kareem also shares her writing process and the impact of political and social issues on her work. She emphasizes the importance of collective action over individual responsibility in addressing systemic oppression and critiques the concept of nation-states and borders as colonial legacies.

Hanna Flint, a London-based critic, author, and host, discusses her mixed heritage, the impact of DNA testing on her identity, and her experiences with language learning. She reflects on North Africa's erasure from African identity and the complexities of race and ethnicity. Flint also explores her relationship with Arabic and the influence of her Tunisian heritage on her work. The conversation touches on the evolution of her identity, the role of cinema in representing diverse voices, and the challenges of film criticism in a predominantly white, male-dominated industry. Flint emphasizes the importance of diverse storytelling and the progress in film representation, citing her own experiences and the works of other cultural critics.

In response to the devastating earthquake on the Turkey-Syria border, SWANA Speaks provides a guide on how to assist with relief efforts. The article suggests donating to various organizations, including the Council on Foundations, Disasters Emergency Committee, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, among others. It also mentions the possibility of volunteering for those with relevant skills and being in proximity to the affected areas. The article emphasizes the importance of continued discussion about the humanitarian crisis as the region rebuilds, which could take years.

Limited power and infrastructural issues have led to inefficiencies in cryptocurrency mining farms. Sabre56, a consultancy firm led by Phil Harvey, aims to help crypto miners avoid costly mistakes by providing infrastructure and planning advice. The Itaipú dam project in Paraguay exemplifies the challenges and potential of transforming excess power into crypto mining. Sabre56 has consulted on various projects globally, emphasizing the need for sustainable and scalable crypto mining solutions. The Paraguayan Senate has recognized cryptocurrency mining as an industrial activity, encouraging investments in the sector.

Despite the recent cryptocurrency market crash, Singaporean investors remain optimistic about the future of crypto, with 65% planning to continue investing. A survey by BBH Singapore revealed that one in three Singaporeans have invested in crypto, and the country is seen as Asia's crypto capital. The research highlighted that younger investors dominate the market, but older investors are also heavily investing. The enthusiasm for crypto persists, with many viewing it as the future of money, and interest in Web3 and blockchain technologies remains strong.

The article discusses the societal pressures and gender norms surrounding women's use of makeup, particularly the trend of no-makeup makeup. It explores the historical mistrust of women who wear makeup and the modern scrutiny they face on social media. The piece highlights the paradox women encounter: the expectation to appear naturally beautiful, which often requires makeup, while also being judged for wearing 'too much' makeup. The article includes perspectives from Dr. Brooke Erin Duffy and psychotherapist Charlotte Fox Weber, and touches on the additional challenges faced by women of color in conforming to beauty standards. It concludes by encouraging women to exercise their autonomy in choosing how much makeup to wear.

Companies are increasingly implementing sustainable-travel programs in response to employee demands for reducing carbon footprints. A survey by SAP Concur revealed that a significant majority of business travelers are willing to make changes to their travel habits to lessen environmental impact. Companies are updating travel policies, setting science-based emission targets, and prioritizing direct flights and rail travel. However, challenges such as the lack of standardized carbon-footprint calculators and the high cost of sustainable options remain. Both large and small companies face different hurdles in adopting these sustainable practices.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, a panel concluded that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) progress has stalled globally due to the pandemic and Ukraine war. Quotas and KPIs are insufficient for improving marginalized lives, with setbacks causing inequalities to persist or worsen. Companies like Solvay and Bloomberg are implementing unconscious bias training, but challenges remain in achieving representation in top management. Panelists emphasized DEI as a moral and economic imperative, facing pushback in culture wars. Legal frameworks, gender mainstreaming, and policy changes, such as extended maternity leave and education access, are necessary for change. DEI is considered as urgent as climate change.

Canada issued its first green bond on March 23, 2022, raising $5 billion to fund sustainable infrastructure projects and create jobs. The bond, part of Canada's Green Bond Framework, aims to help the country achieve its 2030 emissions reduction target and net-zero emissions by 2050. The issuance attracted significant global interest, with 72% of buyers being environmentally and socially responsible investors. Key advisors included HSBC, TD Securities, and Sustainalytics. The bond's success is seen as a step towards establishing Canada as a leader in sustainable finance.

Kristina Ihnatenko, a 24-year-old Ukrainian fitness coach and co-owner of VOIN CrossFit in Kyiv, continues to train her clients remotely despite the ongoing war. Forced to flee her home, she now conducts bodyweight workouts via Telegram to maintain community spirit and mental health. Her clients, including Viktoria, find solace and emotional support through these sessions. Despite the challenges, Kristina remains optimistic and strives to keep her fitness community engaged and motivated.

Christina Yuna Lee, a Korean-American woman, was murdered in her Manhattan apartment, highlighting the rise of anti-Asian hate crimes. The article discusses the increase in such crimes since the Covid-19 outbreak, citing various incidents and the role of inflammatory rhetoric from figures like Donald Trump. It emphasizes the need for political commitment and community support to combat racism, urging readers to educate themselves and take action against xenophobia.

Scientists are working on resurrecting the woolly mammoth using CRISPR gene-editing technology, with the aim of creating an elephant-mammoth hybrid. The biotech firm Colossal, co-founded by Ben Lamm and George Church, has raised significant investment for this de-extinction project. Proponents argue that bringing back mammoths could aid in environmental conservation and combat climate change by revitalizing Arctic grasslands. However, critics like Douglas McCauley caution that the resources for such projects might be better spent on preventing current species extinctions.

COP26 negotiations in Glasgow concluded with mixed feelings among delegates, activists, and workers. Indigenous representatives and environmental activists expressed frustration over the lack of meaningful change and accused the summit of being performative. Some delegates from the global south felt underrepresented, while others saw the event as an opportunity for learning and progress. Concerns were raised about the environmental impact of the event itself, such as the use of plastic in catering. A COP26 spokesperson defended their efforts to minimize food waste. Participants from various countries shared their experiences and hopes for future climate action, emphasizing the need for grassroots movements and criticizing the slow pace of official negotiations.

The CommonSensing project, showcased at COP26, aims to use satellite technology to help Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands build resilience to climate change. The project involves a coalition of organizations, including the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) and NASA, to provide crucial data and training for climate adaptation and mitigation. The initiative focuses on improving food security, disaster response, and tracking climate change effects, with technical training and climate finance advisors embedded within governments. Despite challenges posed by Covid-19, the project remains optimistic about advancing climate science and funding.

Short-haul flights in Europe are increasing in popularity due to their convenience and affordability, despite their significant environmental impact. Eurostat data shows a surge in flights, and while travelers like Vanessa Chalmers and Kayla Allen express a preference for flying due to cost and time, sustainable travel advocates like Catherine Liveseley of No Fly Travel Club highlight the need for better public awareness and pricing structures. Studies by Transport & Environment and Greenpeace emphasize the high carbon emissions from aviation, particularly short-haul flights. Governments in France, Spain, Germany, and Austria are considering or have implemented bans on short-haul flights to reduce emissions. The EU aims to increase high-speed rail services to provide sustainable travel alternatives.

At COP26, a new global tourism coalition was announced, aiming to transform the travel sector into a leader for sustainability. The coalition, supported by the Sustainable Tourism Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, seeks to address the tourism industry's significant carbon footprint and promote environmental and economic sustainability. Key figures, including former Mexican President Felipe Calderón and Saudi Arabia's Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb, highlighted the importance of the sector for local economies and the potential for green innovation. Countries like Kenya are already implementing sustainable practices, with plans to make wildlife parks green by 2030. The coalition includes various countries and organizations, emphasizing the need for action and investment in technological innovations to achieve net-zero emissions.

Women of color in the UK face pervasive racism in nightlife settings, with discriminatory door policies and microaggressions being common experiences. Personal stories highlight the challenges faced, including being denied entry to clubs, being subjected to racial slurs, and experiencing fetishization. Organizations like the Runnymede Trust and Good Night Out Campaign emphasize the need for better training and reporting mechanisms to combat these issues. Despite public statements from venues like Revolutions, structural racism remains deeply embedded in the nightlife industry.

Glasgow, Scotland is preparing to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November 2021, while also setting its own ambitious target to become net-zero carbon by 2030. The city has already reduced CO2 emissions by 41% since 2006 and is implementing sustainability projects such as decarbonizing energy systems and launching the Sustainable Glasgow Charter to engage businesses. Glasgow Chamber of Commerce is actively involved in the 'Circular Glasgow' initiative to help businesses adapt to future sustainability policies. The city also plans to create a carbon-neutral district and retrofit energy-inefficient buildings. However, challenges remain, including securing funding and ensuring that vulnerable communities are not disproportionately affected.

Researchers, including Robert DiNapoli from the University of Binghamton, have used drone technology to understand how the inhabitants of Easter Island historically utilized freshwater supplies to nourish local communities. The study revealed that rainwater on Easter Island sinks through the porous bedrock into an underground aquifer, emerging along the coast as 'coastal seepages' of freshwater. These findings could inform future research on water, drought, and drought prevention. The research, partly funded by National Geographic, was conducted during a multi-year drought, suggesting that coastal seepages are among the last water sources affected by drought, indicating that water may remain in underground aquifers for extended periods before seeping into the ocean.

Researchers have discovered how the indigenous people of Easter Island sourced drinking water from underwater springs, a finding that could enhance understanding of water sources and droughts. Rainwater on the island filters through porous rock into an aquifer, emerging as coastal springs that mix with seawater. This discovery, led by Robert DiNapoli from Binghamton University, reveals that ancient inhabitants built dams and wells to access fresh water. The study, funded by National Geographic, aims to understand the functioning of these springs during prolonged droughts, highlighting the critical nature of water resources amid climate change.

Researchers have solved the mystery of how ancient Easter Island inhabitants drank water from the sea by discovering that the water came from 'coastal seeps' where fresh water from underground aquifers mixed with seawater. Using drones and thermal imaging, the team from Binghamton University, led by Robert DiNapoli, identified these fresh water pockets along the coastline. The findings could inform future studies on water scarcity and drought prevention, especially in areas vulnerable to climate change like Easter Island. The research was funded by National Geographic.

Researchers have uncovered how the Indigenous people of Easter Island historically accessed freshwater from coastal seeps, using modern technology like drones and thermal imaging. This discovery, led by Robert DiNapoli from Binghamton University, reveals that rainwater seeps through porous bedrock into underground aquifers, surfacing along the coastline. The study highlights the innovative survival strategies of Rapa Nui's inhabitants and paves the way for future research on water scarcity and drought prevention, funded by a National Geographic grant.

US-based Chemours is facing a landmark case at the EU Court of Justice over allegations of substituting banned PFOA chemicals with equally harmful GenX chemicals. Environmental agencies, including CHEM Trust and ClientEarth, argue that GenX poses significant health and environmental risks, urging its inclusion in the EU's 'substances of very high concern' list. Chemours defends its position, citing scientific studies that claim low environmental levels of GenX are safe. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the persistence and mobility of 'forever chemicals' and their potential to harm future generations.

Over the weekend, 1428 dolphins were killed in the Faroe Islands as part of the traditional 'grindadráp' hunt. This event, considered the largest single hunt of dolphins or pilot whales in Faroese history, has sparked significant controversy. Marine conservationists, including Sea Shepherd and PETA, argue that the hunt is cruel and unnecessary, with modern methods making it more of a sport than a subsistence activity. The hunt has also faced criticism for breaking Faroese laws, with many participants allegedly hunting without proper licenses. The scale of the slaughter has led even some Faroese news outlets and former hunt supporters to speak out against the practice.

COP26, the 26th Conference of the Parties, will convene global leaders in Glasgow to negotiate strategies for combating climate change. The event, overseen by the UNFCCC, aims to reduce carbon emissions and stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations. Key topics include finalizing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, phasing out coal, and determining financial responsibilities for climate action. Developing countries may seek financial and technological support from industrialized nations. The success of COP26 hinges on securing $100 billion in climate finance and meaningful upgrades to national emissions reduction plans.

After initially pursuing a career in veterinary science and then becoming a chemistry professor, the author transitioned to yachting, eventually becoming a superyacht captain. The journey involved financial struggles, a move to North Carolina for postgraduate research, and a serendipitous introduction to yachting. The author now captains a 106-foot yacht named 'Freddy,' traveling the Eastern Seaboard, the Bahamas, Cuba, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean. The new career offers higher income and continuous learning opportunities, despite being more stressful than teaching.

The discovery of 751 unmarked graves of indigenous Canadians highlights the need for global historical reckoning with cultural genocide. The article criticizes the Canadian government and church for their roles in systemic racism and cultural destruction, urging modern nation-states to address their own histories of marginalization. It draws parallels with similar atrocities in Australia, the US, and China, emphasizing the need for policy over apologies. The text advocates for tangible actions to support marginalized communities, citing examples from New Zealand and Germany as potential models for reconciliation and healing.

The article explores the societal pressures and gender norms surrounding women's use of makeup, particularly the 'No-Make-up' trend. It highlights the historical and cultural roots of the stigma against women who wear makeup, citing examples from ancient Rome to modern social media. The piece discusses the paradoxical expectations placed on women to look naturally beautiful while avoiding the label of being 'fake.' Expert opinions and personal anecdotes illustrate the ongoing struggle women face in balancing societal expectations with personal expression.

The UK's proposed photo ID requirement for voting, set to take effect from 2023, is criticized for potentially disenfranchising disabled, elderly, young, and low-income citizens, as well as ethnic minorities and the Gypsy Roma Traveller population. The Electoral Reform Society and other organizations argue that the rule will create barriers to democracy, with trials already turning away voters. The government's justification of preventing electoral fraud is challenged by the low levels of proven fraud in the UK. Critics, including the Labour Party and the Southern Poverty Law Center, view the measure as a tactic by the Conservative Party to maintain power by disenfranchising groups less likely to support them.

The article by Parisa Hashempour discusses the widening global digital divide exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly affecting countries in the global south and women. The author highlights the importance of digital skills and access as a form of currency in today's virtual world and points out the disparities in digital development across different regions. The UN has declared digital access a human right, yet many are still offline. The article emphasizes the role of governments and NGOs in democratizing digital access and investing in education and infrastructure to close the gap. It also touches on the gender gap in digital access and the impact of the pandemic on women's careers. The author calls for concerted global efforts to ensure no economy is left behind in the post-pandemic recovery.

Psychedelics have been used by humans for millennia, with evidence of their use in ancient cultures. Today, they are gaining attention for their potential in treating mental health issues. However, BIPOC communities face barriers to access and benefits from psychedelic-assisted therapy due to stigma, legal issues, and a lack of representation in research. Indigenous practices with psychedelics are being appropriated by Western cultures, often without proper acknowledgment or inclusion of the original communities. Experts like Dr. Ben Sessa and Dr. Monnica Williams emphasize the importance of inclusivity and community approaches in psychedelic research to address mental health and racial trauma. Personal stories from individuals like Fabiola Santiago and Ifetayo Harvey highlight the transformative potential of psychedelics and the need for culturally competent care.

Parisa Hashempour discusses the negative reactions from men to women who cut their hair short, sharing personal experiences and those of other women. She explores the societal and gender norms that associate long hair with femininity and beauty, and how short hair can be seen as a threat or a political statement. The article includes insights from academics on gender identity and professional presentation, and highlights the additional pressures faced by women of color regarding hair standards. Hashempour concludes by celebrating the liberation she feels from cutting her hair and rejecting outdated gender stereotypes.

The article explores the societal and cultural reactions to women cutting their hair short, particularly focusing on the negative responses from men. It discusses how hair length is tied to gender identity and femininity, with long hair often being seen as a marker of traditional womanhood. The piece includes personal anecdotes and expert opinions, highlighting the challenges women face in both personal and professional settings when they choose to cut their hair short. It also touches on the additional pressures faced by women of color in achieving societal standards of beauty.

A study published in JAMA found intensive blood pressure treatment reduces the risk of mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to dementia. The research, part of the larger Sprint cardiovascular study, involved over 9,000 participants in the US. The study's results are applicable to individuals over 50 with elevated blood pressure, excluding those with diabetes or a history of stroke. The article also discusses the importance of mental stimulation, cognitive reserve, aspirin, omega-3 fatty acids, heart health, and lifestyle factors like the Mediterranean diet and moderate exercise in preventing dementia. Upcoming research aims to identify early biomarkers for Alzheimer's, potentially leading to early treatment and prevention.