What's on your mind right now ?

[happylife]

I think we really need a thread like this here ...

You can post anything you like here that is bothering your mind ...

So let's start ...





A few days ago, Hardik Pandya was talking to Ricky Ponting before a match. Hardik asked Ponting how he was doing and about his family.
Ponting responded by asking about Hardik's family. Hardik's expression showed surprise, thinking it was odd since everyone knew he wasn't doing well.
His wife had left him, and he faced heavy criticism for taking over Mumbai's captaincy from Rohit Sharma, with many blaming him for Mumbai's continuous losses.

He has been compared to dogs and called names like "Chapri," facing immense mental strain.

The Pandya brothers became cricketers through immense hardship, sometimes eating, sometimes not.
Their tough upbringing made them resilient, especially Hardik.
Despite all the off-field incidents, Hardik Pandya remains one of India's top performers in this World Cup.
He bowls well, takes wickets, and scores runs in every match, with standout performances against Bangladesh.
Performing under such pressure with a storm inside is incredibly challenging.
Being Hardik Pandya is not easy, not easy at all!

 

[happylife]

IN THE 1600 AND 1700

When visiting the Palace of Versailles in Paris, it is observed that the sumptuous palace has no bathrooms.
In the Middle Ages, there were no toothbrushes, perfumes, deodorants, and much less toilet paper.
Human excrements were thrown out of palace windows.
On a holiday, the palace kitchen was able to prepare a feast for 1500 people, without the minimum hygiene.
In today's movies we see people from that era shaking or fanning...
The explanation is not in the heat, but in the foul odour emitted under the skirts (which were deliberately made to contain the smell of private parts, since there was no hygiene). It was also not customary to shower due to the cold and the almost non-existence of running water.
Only the nobles had lackeys to fan them, to dispel the bad odor that exhalated the body and mouth, as well as to scare away the insects.
Those who have been to Versailles have admired the huge and beautiful gardens that, at that time, were not only contemplated, but used as a toilet in the famous ballads promoted by the monarchy, because there were no bathrooms.
In the Middle Ages, most weddings took place in June (for them, the beginning of summer).
The reason is simple: the first bath of the year was taken in May; so, in June, the smell of people was still tolerable.
However, as some odors were already beginning to bother, the brides carried bouquets of flowers near their bodies to cover the odor.
Hence the explanation of the origin of the bridal bouquet.
The baths were taken in a single massive tub filled with hot water.
The head of the family had the privilege of the first swim in clean water.
Then, without changing the water, the others arrived in the house, in order of age, women, also by age and finally, children.
The babies were the last ones to bathe. When his turn came, the water in the bathtub was so dirty that it was possible to kill a baby inside.
The roofs of the houses had no sky and the wooden beams that held them up were the best place for animals: dogs, cats, rats and cockroaches to keep warm.
When it rained, leaks forced the animals to jump to the ground.
Those who had money had tin plates. Certain types of food oxidized the material, causing many people to die from poisoning. Let's remember that the hygiene habits of the time were terrible.
Tomatoes, being acidic, were considered poisonous for a long time, can cups were used to drink beer or whiskey; this combination, sometimes, left the individual "on the floor" (in a kind of narcolepsy induced by mixing alcoholic beverage with tin oxide).
Someone passing by the street would think he was dead, so they were picking up the body and preparing for the funeral.
Then the body would be placed on the kitchen table for a few days and the family would stand watching, eating, drinking and waiting to see if the dead man would wake up or not.
Hence the wake of the dead (wake or wake), which is the vigil next to the coffin.
England is a small country, where there wasn't always a place to bury all the dead.
Then the coffins were opened, the bones were extracted, they were placed in oarsaries and the grave was used for another corpse.
Sometimes, when opening the coffins, you could notice scratches on the lids inside, indicating that the dead man had, in fact, been buried alive.
Thus, when closing the coffin, the idea came to tie a strip of the deceased's wrist, pass it through a hole made in the coffin and tie it to a bell.
After the burial, someone stayed on duty next to the grave for a few days.
If the individual woke up, the movement of his arm would ring the bell.
And it would be "saved by the campaign," an expression used by us to this day.

 

[happylife]

Learning to drive a manual transmission car can be challenging at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Before You Begin:​

1. Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the pedals (clutch, brake, and accelerator) and the gear stick.
2. Find an Empty Area: Start in a spacious, flat, and quiet area like an empty parking lot. This reduces distractions and allows you to focus on the controls.

Getting Started:​

1. Clutch Control:
   • Press the clutch pedal fully with your left foot.
   • While keeping the clutch pedal depressed, move the gear lever to neutral (typically the middle position).
2. Starting the Engine:
   • Turn the ignition key to start the engine.
   • Most cars require the clutch to be depressed to start, but check your car's specific requirements.

Engaging First Gear:​

1. Foot Placement:
   • Keep your left foot on the clutch pedal.
   • Place your right foot on the brake pedal.
2. Prepare to Move:
   • Slowly release the parking brake (if engaged).
   • Gradually release the brake pedal while maintaining the clutch fully depressed.
3. Engage First Gear:
   • Move the gear lever into first gear position (usually left and forward).
   • Slowly begin to release the clutch pedal while simultaneously giving a little gas with your right foot.
4. Finding the Bite Point:
   • As you release the clutch, you'll feel a point where the engine begins to engage with the transmission (the "bite point").
   • Pause at this point and maintain a steady pressure on the accelerator pedal to prevent stalling.

Moving and Shifting Gears:​

1. Accelerate and Shift:
   • Once moving, continue to gradually release the clutch while increasing pressure on the accelerator.
   • To shift gears, lift off the accelerator, fully depress the clutch, move the gear lever to the next gear, and smoothly release the clutch while applying gas.
2. Downshifting:
   • For slowing down or stopping, depress the clutch, shift to a lower gear (matching engine speed to road speed), and release the clutch smoothly.

Tips for Practice:​

• Be Patient: Learning takes time, so don't get frustrated if it doesn't click right away.
• Practice Smooth Movements: Smoothness is key to mastering manual transmission. Aim for gradual clutch release and gentle shifts.
• Listen to the Engine: The engine's sound helps indicate when to shift gears.
• Hill Starts: Practice on flat ground first, then gradually introduce gentle slopes for hill starts.

Safety Precautions:​

• Always keep both hands on the steering wheel and focus on the road.
• Use the parking brake when parked to prevent the car from rolling.

By following these steps and practicing consistently, you'll gain confidence in driving a manual transmission car. Each car can feel slightly different, so adjust to your specific vehicle as you learn.

 

[happylife]

Using the clutch and brake combination in a manual car refers to coordinating the clutch pedal and the brake pedal to facilitate smooth and safe driving, especially in situations like starting on a hill or stopping in traffic. Here’s how to properly use this technique:

Starting from a Stop:​

1. Prepare the Car:
   • Press the clutch pedal fully with your left foot.
   • Place your right foot on the brake pedal.
2. Engage the Gear:
   • Shift the gear lever into 1st gear (or the appropriate gear for starting).
3. Prepare to Move:
   • While keeping the clutch pedal fully depressed, release the handbrake (if engaged).
4. Controlled Release:
   • Slowly release the clutch pedal while simultaneously easing off the brake pedal.
   • As you feel the car start to move forward and the clutch begins to engage, continue releasing the clutch pedal smoothly and progressively to prevent stalling.

Stopping the Car:​

1. Prepare to Stop:
   • Gradually apply the brake pedal to slow down the car.
2. Disengage the Clutch:
   • Press the clutch pedal fully to disengage the engine from the transmission.
   • Downshift through the gears as necessary (if coming to a complete stop) to keep the engine in its optimal operating range.
3. Complete Stop:
   • Come to a complete stop with both feet on the brake pedal (right foot) and the clutch pedal (left foot) fully depressed.
   • If stopping for an extended period (e.g., at a traffic light), you can shift into neutral while keeping the clutch pedal pressed.

Other Situations:​

• Hill Starts: On a hill, use the clutch and brake to hold the car in place. Apply the brake pedal firmly with your right foot, and use the clutch to engage the gear smoothly as you release the brake pedal.
• Traffic: In slow-moving traffic, use the clutch and brake to control the car’s speed and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Tips for Smooth Operation:​

• Practice Smooth Transitions: The key to using the clutch and brake together effectively is smoothness. Avoid abrupt movements with either pedal.
• Coordination: Coordinate the movement of your feet to ensure that the clutch engages smoothly as you release the brake.
• Prevent Stalling: Avoid releasing the clutch too quickly when starting and ensure it is fully depressed when stopping to prevent stalling the engine.
• Know Your Car: Different cars may have slightly different clutch and brake pedal sensitivity. Practice in a safe area to get familiar with your car's specific characteristics.

By mastering the coordination of the clutch and brake pedals, you'll be able to drive more smoothly, efficiently, and safely in a manual transmission car across various driving conditions.

 

[happylife]

B vitamins, its function, and good food sources:

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
   • Function: Essential for energy metabolism, nerve function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
   • Food Sources: Whole grains (such as brown rice, oats), legumes (like lentils, beans), pork, nuts (like pecans, pistachios), seeds (such as sunflower seeds).
2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):
   • Function: Helps convert food into energy, supports growth and red blood cell production.
   • Food Sources: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), lean meats (chicken, turkey), eggs, leafy green vegetables (spinach, broccoli), fortified cereals.
3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin):
   • Function: Supports energy production, aids in DNA repair, and supports skin health.
   • Food Sources: Meat (chicken, turkey, lean cuts of beef), fish (tuna, salmon), whole grains (wheat, barley), legumes (lentils, peanuts), seeds (sunflower seeds).
4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid):
   • Function: Essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, which is involved in energy metabolism.
   • Food Sources: Meat (beef, poultry, pork), whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat), avocado, mushrooms, legumes (lentils, chickpeas).
5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine):
   • Function: Involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis (like serotonin, dopamine), and hemoglobin production.
   • Food Sources: Poultry (chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, tuna), potatoes (with skin), bananas, fortified cereals.
6. Vitamin B7 (Biotin):
   • Function: Supports metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and aids in healthy skin, hair, and nails.
   • Food Sources: Egg yolks, nuts (almonds, peanuts), seeds (sunflower seeds), legumes (lentils, soybeans), whole grains.
7. Vitamin B9 (Folate or Folic Acid):
   • Function: Essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and fetal development during pregnancy.
   • Food Sources: Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale), legumes (black-eyed peas, chickpeas), fortified cereals, citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit), avocado.
8. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin):
   • Function: Important for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production.
   • Food Sources: Meat (beef, pork, lamb), poultry (chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, trout), dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), eggs.

Including a variety of these foods in your diet ensures that you get adequate amounts of B vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism, neurological function, and overall health. If you have specific dietary restrictions or concerns, consider consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

 

[happylife]

12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be Part of Your Life:



1. Knowledge Highway: Books offer a vast reservoir of knowledge on virtually any topic imaginable. Dive deep into history, science, philosophy, or explore new hobbies and interests.


2. Enhanced Vocabulary: Regular reading exposes you to a wider range of vocabulary, improving your communication skills and comprehension.


3. Memory Boost: Studies suggest that reading can help sharpen your memory and cognitive function, keeping your mind active and engaged.


4. Stress Reduction: Curling up with a good book can be a form of mental escape, offering a temporary reprieve from daily anxieties and a chance to unwind.


5. Improved Focus and Concentration: In today's fast-paced world filled with distractions, reading strengthens your ability to focus and concentrate for extended periods.


6. Empathy and Perspective: Stepping into the shoes of fictional characters allows you to develop empathy and gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives.


7. Enhanced Creativity: Reading exposes you to new ideas and thought processes, potentially sparking your own creativity and problem-solving skills.


8. Stronger Writing Skills: Immersing yourself in well-written prose can improve your writing style, sentence structure, and overall communication clarity.


9. Improved Sleep Quality: Swap screen time for a book before bed. The calming nature of reading can help you relax and unwind, promoting better sleep quality.

 

[happylife]

Improving sleep quality often involves developing good sleep habits, also known as sleep hygiene.
Here are some effective habits to help you sleep better:

1. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock.
2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Establish calming activities before bed, such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation exercises like deep breathing.
3. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment:
   • Optimize Your Bedroom: Make sure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—cool, quiet, and dark.
   • Comfortable Bed: Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that support good sleep posture.
4. Limit Exposure to Screens: Reduce exposure to screens (phones, tablets, computers) at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.
5. Watch What and When You Eat and Drink:
   • Avoid Heavy Meals: Eating heavy or spicy meals before bed can cause discomfort and indigestion.
   • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening, and limit alcohol intake close to bedtime, as both can disrupt sleep.
6. Get Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity during the day can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. However, avoid vigorous exercise too close to bedtime, as it may be stimulating.
7. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or journaling to manage stress and calm your mind before bed.
8. Limit Daytime Naps: If you nap during the day, keep it short (20-30 minutes) and avoid napping late in the afternoon or evening, as it can interfere with nighttime sleep.
9. Expose Yourself to Natural Light: Get exposure to natural light during the day, especially in the morning. Natural light helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
10. Consider Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is free from distractions, comfortable, and conducive to sleep. This includes having a comfortable mattress and pillows, as well as managing noise and light levels.

Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can greatly improve your sleep quality over time.

 

[happylife]

 

[happylife]

Muhammad Akhtar 1928-1974 (pseudonym) Saghar Siddiqui was an Urdu poet, in spite of his ruined and homeless alone life, he remained famous and successful till and after his death. when he died, he left nothing but a pet, his dog, who also died on the same foot path where Saghar died a year later.

Saghar Siddiqui was born in 1928 in Ambala (British India) to a well-to-do middle-class family. There are few historic records of Saghar's personal life. He rarely spoke to any one in this regard and most of what is known of him tends to be from witness accounts. Siddiqui was the only child of his parents and spent the early years of his life in Ambala and Saharanpur.

He was home tutored and received his early education from Habib Hassan a family friend. Young Akhtar was much impressed by Habib Hassan, and he got interested in Urdu poetry because of him. Siddiqui started writing poetry as a child. He moved to Amritsar(Punjab), in search of work and used to make wooden combs while writing Urdu poetry. For some time he used Nasir Hijazi as his pen name, but later he switched to Saghar Siddiqui. When 16 years old, he regularly started attending mushairas (poerty recitals) in Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Gurdaspur. In 1947, when he was 19, he migrated to Pakistan during the independence and settled in Lahore. In those days with his slim appearance, wearing pants and boski (yellow silky cloth) shirts, with curly hair, and reciting beautiful ghazals in a melodious voice, he became a huge success. He had some tragic turns in his life. Siddiqui continued to write poetry for the film industry and moved on to publish a literary magazine. The magazine was a critical success but a commercial flop. Disappointed, Saghar shut down the magazine. In his later life, he fell into depression, financially ruined and addicted to drugs.

Siddiqui chose to stay in cheap hotels, rather than settle into a house given by the government to refugees. He would pay the rent with meager amounts earnt by selling his poems to magazines. Sometimes he would have to sell his poetry to other poets for a few rupees. He would use the waste paper spread around to light fires to stay warm during winter nights. Some of these poems were re-sold by these people as their own work.

Within a decade of coming to Pakistan, he became disillusioned as he saw corruption and nepotism being rewarded at the expense of genuine talent. In despair, he turned to morphine, buying it from janitors of hospitals in Lahore. As friends and strangers continued to exploit him, Siddiqui fell further into despair and was soon turned out of hotels and had to live on the street as a beggar. He was often seen along Circular Road of Lahore, and in Anarkali Bazar, Akhbaar Market, Aibak Road, Shah Alami, and around the Data Darbar area. He would often hold mushairas on the footpaths, in candle light. He continued to write poems, though most of them are lost and unpublished.

In early 1974, Siddiqui was found dead on a street corner of Lahore. On 19 July 1974, he was found dead on a roadside in Lahore near alfalah building the mall, at the age of 46. His dead body was found one early morning outside one of the shops. He was buried at the Miani Sahib graveyard. His dog also died a year later, reportedly at the same spot. Despite his shattered life, some of his verses are among the best in Urdu poetry.

The sensitive and gifted teenager was excited by the prospect of becoming a citizen of a newly created country and at once got down to writing a national anthem for it.

 

[happylife]

Accounting certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects and professional development. Here are some of the most advantageous ones:

1. **CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant)**: This is the most recognized and prestigious accounting designation . It combines the former CA (Chartered Accountant), CMA (Certified Management Accountant), and CGA (Certified General Accountant) designations into a single unified body. The CPA designation is highly valued across various industries and sectors, providing a broad range of career opportunities.

2. **CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)**: Although not exclusively an accounting designation, the CFA is highly respected in finance and investment sectors. It's particularly beneficial if you're interested in financial analysis, portfolio management, or investment banking.

3. **CMA (Certified Management Accountant)**: While the CMA designation has been integrated into the CPA designation, some professionals still hold it and it remains relevant for roles in management accounting and strategic financial management.

4. **CA (Chartered Accountant)**: As the CA designation was integrated into the CPA program, it's less common now, but it remains valuable for those who have it, especially in contexts where historical knowledge of accounting standards and practices is relevant.

5. **CGA (Certified General Accountant)**: Similar to the CA, the CGA designation was absorbed into the CPA program. However, it’s still relevant for professionals who had this designation before the merger.

6. **Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)**: This certification, offered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), is advantageous for those interested in forensic accounting and fraud prevention.

7. **Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)**: Offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), this certification is valuable if you're focusing on internal auditing and risk management.

8. **Certified Management Consultant (CMC)**: For accountants interested in consulting roles, this designation can add value, especially if you're advising businesses on management and operational issues.

Each of these certifications can open different career doors, so the best choice depends on your career goals and areas of interest. For most traditional accounting roles, the CPA designation will likely be the most beneficial and broadly recognized.

 

[happylife]

Starting to study for the CPA exam can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help. Here’s a structured approach to get you going:

1. Understand the Exam Structure​

• Familiarize Yourself with the Sections: The CPA exam consists of four sections—
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR),
• Audit and Attestation (AUD),
• Regulation (REG), and
• Business Environment and Concepts (BEC).
• Know the Format:
• Each section includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs),
• task-based simulations (TBSs), and,
• in the case of BEC, written communication tasks.

2. Create a Study Plan​

• Set a Timeline: Decide when you want to take each section and create a study schedule leading up to those dates.
• Allocate Time Wisely: Dedicate more time to sections you find more challenging. Be realistic about how much time you can commit each week.

3. Choose Your Study Materials​

• Pick a Review Course: Consider using a CPA review course (e.g., Becker, Wiley, Gleim, or Roger CPA). These courses offer structured study plans, practice questions, and exam strategies.
• Gather Additional Resources: Supplement with textbooks, flashcards, and online resources as needed.

4. Start Studying​

• Focus on Understanding Concepts: Don’t just memorize; aim to understand the underlying principles and how to apply them.
• Practice Regularly: Work through practice questions and simulations to build familiarity with the exam format and question types.

5. Review and Adjust​

• Track Your Progress: Regularly assess how well you're retaining information and adjust your study plan as needed.
• Take Practice Exams: Simulate exam conditions with practice exams to gauge your readiness and manage exam-day stress.

6. Stay Healthy and Balanced​

• Manage Stress: Incorporate breaks and relaxation techniques into your study routine.
• Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and ensure adequate sleep to keep your mind sharp.

7. Prepare for the Exam Day​

• Know the Details: Be aware of the exam’s logistics, such as what to bring and the location of your testing center.
• Stay Calm and Confident: Approach the exam with confidence in your preparation.

Taking the CPA exam is a significant investment of time and effort, so staying organized and committed is key. Good luck with your studies!

 

[happylife]

There are several websites that offer free study guides and resources for the CPA exam:

1. AICPA: The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) provides free CPA exam resources, including sample tests, content outlines, and other study materials on their website at aicpa.org.
2. Wiley CPAexcel: Wiley offers a variety of free CPA exam study tools and resources on their website, including practice questions, video lessons, and study tips.
3. Roger CPA Review: Roger CPA Review has a section on their website with free CPA exam resources, including practice questions, flashcards, and exam strategies.
4. Gleim CPA Review: Gleim, a leading CPA review course provider, offers free CPA exam study guides, practice questions, and other preparation materials on their website.
5. CPA Exam Guide: This website provides free CPA exam study guides, practice tests, and other helpful resources to assist candidates in their CPA exam preparation.

The quality and comprehensiveness of the free study materials can vary across these websites, so it's recommended to explore a few options to find the resources that best fit your learning style and CPA exam preparation needs.

 

[SilverMoon]

I am amazed to see each and every post here! I really love the things you are trying to convey!

 

[happylife]

Exercising when overweight: moderation is key

The battle of the bulge rages on in the United States, with more people than ever falling victim to it. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 35 percent of U.S. adults are obese, and more than 34 percent are overweight. Aside from dieting, the only other proven way of getting in shape is through adding regular exercise.

“Overweight people have a higher risk of many health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, and that’s why dropping that excess weight by eating less and moving more is so important,” says Dr. Heng Chao Terry Wei, a ColumbiaDoctors internist. “But for people carrying excess weight, there are certain precautions they should take before embarking on an exercise regime — particularly when the weather is hot.”

Before you begin any exercise regime, visit your health care provider to assess if you are healthy enough to start a regular fitness routine and which exercises are best for you. “Obese individuals weigh more, and therefore should avoid moves that put stress on their ankles, hips, knees, and lower back if they wish to avoid injuries,” says Dr. Wei.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that overweight individuals gradually build to a workout of up to 250 minutes of weekly moderate-intensity exercise to increase weight loss. This can take any form, for instance, five 50-minute workouts per week or seven 37-minute workouts a week.


Weight-friendly workouts

Walking

Walking is the ideal low-impact exercise. The only requirement is comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers and can be done almost everywhere, and improves lower body strength and mobility. “However, walking isn't for everyone,” warns Dr. Wei, “If you experience knee, back, or hip pain, talk to your healthcare provider. You may be able to work with a physical therapist or exercise professional to address the issue or come up with a better routine for fitness.” Consistency is key when starting a walking program. Set weekly goals, vary your routine and gradually add distance, intensity and speed to make the workout more effective.


Swimming

Swimming is perhaps the best cardio, pulmonary and skeletal exercise a person can do. It offers a total body workout that’s easy on the joints, and it increases core strength and balance while burning fat and calories. Says Dr. Wei, “For people with weight problems, swimming offers the added benefit of staying cool in the water, so they are able to workout longer than they could in other environments.” In addition to swimming, specialized water-based exercises, such as water-jogging and water-aerobics are excellent ways to burn calories for weight loss.



Cycling

Biking is an efficient form of burning calories while putting less stress on your joints. A recumbent bike is good for people who have back pain, joint problems, or simply need more support. There are also recumbent cross trainers on the market, which offer more variety if you get bored pedaling. The machine is similar to a stepper and works both the upper and lower body with less stress on the joints. Then there’s the portable peddler, small, lightweight devices that let you pedal while seated at your desk or in a comfortable chair. “With this and with all exercises, the key is to start slowly and make consistency your goal,” advises Dr. Wei. “Try to pedal for five minutes, then rest. Pedal again for five minutes, then rest again. Gradually increase the duration of your pedaling interval and decrease the rest interval. Get off the bike as needed to stretch your joints and relax out of the saddle.”



Strength Training

The best way to burn fat is to build muscle at the same time, and that requires strength exercises such as lifting light weights, and resistance exercises such as chest and leg presses, leg curls and lateral pulldowns. Once the original exercises start feeling too easy, start increasing the number of reps or the weight you lift. “Another benefit to strength training is that it can correct postural issues that may arise from carrying extra weight,” says Dr. Wei. “It can also increase the range of motion in the joints. Finally, when you build muscle, you boost your metabolism when your body is at rest, which means more calories are being burned for longer periods.”



Exercise is a powerful tool, one that can help you lose weight, improve body function, and boost mood and confidence. But Dr. Wei adds a cautionary note about exercising in summertime: “Be sure to take certain precautions — drink six to eight glasses of water a day for proper hydration, limit your sun exposure, and apply sunscreen.”

 

[happylife]

The big blood pressure experiment

Dr Chris van Tulleken sets out to test the health claim made for three foods – beetroot, garlic and watermelon.

It’s said they can all reduce our blood pressure but what’s the truth?
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, the U.K.’s biggest killer, so if such claims are true then these three foods could be lifesavers.


Dr Andy Webb of Kings College London helped run an experiment to find out what effect these foods really have.

The experiment

The experiment involved 28 volunteers who all had a systolic blood pressure above 130mm of mercury (the ideal blood pressure for an adult is around 120), and they were divided into three groups.


During the first week:-

Group 1 ate two cloves of garlic every day.

Group 2 ate two large slices of watermelon a day.

Group 3 ate two whole beetroots every day.

For the second and third week, each group swapped over so that by the end of three weeks everyone had tried each food. What’s so ‘super’ about garlic, beetroot and watermelon? We hate the term ‘superfoods’ so often bandied about in the media, but it’s true that some foods can have a beneficial effect on our bodies. So we set out to test three that are supposed to help reduce blood pressure. In theory, all three foods essentially lower blood pressure the same way - by making our blood vessels dilate they allow blood to flow more freely. But they each do this in a different way.


The differences between garlic, beetroot and watermelon

In garlic one of the main active ingredients is thought to be a chemical called allicin which is released when you chop or crush garlic. It’s believed to act on our kidneys, changing levels of hormones and causing the blood vessels to open up.

For beetroot, the active ingredient is nitrate - present in both the leaves AND the root. When we eat beetroot, bacteria that live in the mouth turn the nitrate in the beetroot into nitrite and this in turn is thought to get changed into nitric oxide which causes the blood vessels to dilate – lowering our blood pressure.

In watermelon, the active ingredient is called L-citrulline and this also works by increasing the levels of nitric oxide which again dilates our blood vessels and so lowers blood pressure.

The results

Each volunteer measured their blood pressure twice a day - morning and evening. Each time they took 3 measurements to calculate an average. It was then possible to see which foods made the biggest difference to blood pressure.

Full experiment protocol

The baseline blood pressure for the group—the average reading taken when everybody was eating and drinking normally - was 133.6 mmHg.

On the beetroot diet, this went down to 128.7 mmHg and the garlic gave a similar result (129.3 mmHg).

The result in this small study is in agreement with what Dr Webb and others have found in larger studies. Studies on the links between high blood pressure and heart disease suggest that, if such a drop in blood pressure is maintained, this roughly translates into a reduction of the risk of stroke and heart attack by 10%!

Watermelon didn’t have such a strong effect - it reduced systolic blood pressure to 129.8mmHg. This may be because water melon is mainly water- there isn’t much of the active ingredient. What does the experiment tell us?

Our small study adds to a growing number which suggest that eating beetroot and garlic regularly may help reduce your blood pressure.

But these aren’t the only foods that can do this.

The active ingredient in beetroot, nitrate, is present in plenty of green vegetables: celery; lettuce; watercress; rocket; spinach; chard; broccoli; for example.

And the active ingredient in garlic – allicin – is also present in onions, shallots, leeks, chives and spring onions.

It turns out there are several foods which can help keep our blood pressure low. But, crucially, how good they are depends on how they’re prepared.

To get the most nitrate from your vegetables

Eat salad and vegetables raw. Nitrate is intact in the vegetable in their uncooked states but can be reduced by processing and cooking. It is also water soluble and so if your boiling, steaming beetroot or spinach some of the nitrate will be lost in the water. Pickling also reduces the amount of nitrate in beetroot as it’s lost in the picking vinegar. If you do boil beetroot, leave it as it is: don’t peel or top and tail it before boiling. Have beetoot juice (why not try juice with other flavours such as apple, celery and a little ginger). In juice, you retain most of the beetroot in its raw state. Make soup – the nitrate lost in the water will remain in the soup. Steam spinach and other vegetables rather than boiling (you use less water so you’ll lose less nitrate in the water). Use the water from cooking in soups and stews.


The best way to enjoy the blood pressure lowering effects of the allicin in garlic

Crush or chop as finely as possible: The finer you chop or crush, the more allicin is released. Use the garlic as soon as possible after chopping or crushing (e.g. add to soups and stews at end just before serving, or put your garlic on toast, bruschetta, mushrooms…). Allicin degrades quickly so as soon as you’ve peeled or chopped your fresh garlic the allicin has already started to break down. Don’t microwave your garlic. Cooking speeds up degradation of allicin and microwaving appears to destroy it completely.

Warnings!

Don’t over do it. Too much garlic may cause irritation and digestive upset. Some people are allergic to garlic, if you suspect this is the case seek medical help. Garlic in its raw state can burn, so don’t hold it in the mouth for long periods.

Other changes you can make to your lifestyle to help reduce high blood pressure

Some of these will lower your blood pressure in a matter of weeks; others may take longer.

Be active: being physically active is one of the most important things you can do to prevent or control high blood pressure. Eat a healthy, low saturated fat, balanced diet, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Cut down on alcohol. Stop smoking. Maintain a healthy weight. Cut your salt intake to less than 6g (0.2oz) a day. Drink less coffee, tea or other caffeine-rich drinks such as cola. Drinking more than four cups of coffee a day may increase your blood pressure.

 

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In India, the equivalent certification to the CPA is the Chartered Accountant (CA) designation, awarded by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The CA designation is highly regarded in India and covers a broad range of accounting and financial expertise, similar to the CPA in the United States.

In the United States, the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is awarded by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). To become a CPA in the U.S., candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Examination, meet educational and experience requirements, and fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain the certification.

 

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The syllabus for the Chartered Accountant (CA) exams in India is structured across three main levels, administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Here’s a breakdown of the syllabus for each level:

1. CA Foundation:


Paper 1: Principles and Practice of Accounting
Basic concepts of accounting, accounting standards, and financial statements.

Paper 2: Business Laws, Ethics, and Communication
Business laws (Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act), ethics, and effective communication skills.

Paper 3: Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, and Statistics
Mathematical concepts, reasoning skills, and statistical tools.

Paper 4: Business Economics and Business and Commercial Knowledge
Microeconomics, macroeconomics, and general business knowledge.

2. CA Intermediate:

Group I:


Paper 1: Accounting
Advanced accounting standards, partnership accounts, and financial statements.

Paper 2: Corporate and Other Laws
Company law, securities law, and other business laws.

Paper 3: Cost and Management Accounting
Cost concepts, budgeting, and performance management.

Paper 4: Taxation
Income tax, GST, and international taxation.

Group II:


Paper 5: Advanced Accounting
Specialized accounting areas like financial instruments and business combinations.

Paper 6: Auditing and Assurance
Audit processes, ethics, and internal controls.

Paper 7: Enterprise Information Systems and Strategic Management
IT systems in business and strategic management principles.

Paper 8: Financial Management and Economics for Finance
Financial management techniques and economic concepts for finance.


3. CA Final:


Group I:

Paper 1: Financial Reporting
Advanced accounting standards, financial statement analysis.

Paper 2: Strategic Financial Management
Advanced financial management, risk management, and capital budgeting.

Paper 3: Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
In-depth auditing practices, ethics, and auditing standards.

Paper 4: Corporate and Economic Laws
Detailed company law and economic legislation.


Group II:


Paper 5: Strategic Cost Management and Performance Evaluation
Strategic cost management techniques and performance evaluation.

Paper 6: Electives (Choose one)
Options include Risk Management, Financial Services, International Taxation, etc.

Paper 7: Direct Tax Laws and International Taxation
Detailed study of direct taxes and international tax principles.

Paper 8: Indirect Tax Laws
GST, customs laws, and other indirect taxes.



Each level involves rigorous preparation and covers a wide range of topics to ensure a deep understanding of accounting, finance, and related disciplines.

In the CA Intermediate course, the syllabus is divided into two groups, each containing four papers. Candidates can choose to appear for both groups in a single attempt or for them separately.

In the CA Final course, the syllabus is divided into two groups, each consisting of four papers. Candidates can choose to appear for both groups in a single attempt or separately

The CA exams are known for their challenging nature, requiring extensive study and practical experience.

 

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Princess Diana had a strained relationship with the royal family and on one occasion she left senior members completely stunned with a remark she made during Christmas dinner, according to one expert.

Diana was 20 when she married then-Prince Charles in 1981. The couple separated in 1992, having welcomed Prince William and Prince Harry before going on to finally divorce in 1996. It was widely reported that Diana struggled to find her place within the monarchy - as made evident by her comment during the festive celebration.

Writing in his book 'Diana: Her True Story', Andrew Morton claimed that Diana raised the question as to whether the royals would remain pertinent in a federal Europe, leaving her fellow diners shocked. "The Queen, Prince Charles and the rest of the royal family looked at her as if she were mad and continued with their debate on who shot the last pheasant of the day, a discussion which occupied the rest of the evening," Morton wrote.

As a friend says 'she finds the monarchy claustrophobic and completely outdated with no relevance to today's life and problems.
She feels that it is a crumbling institution and believes that the family won't know what has hit it in a few years' time unless it changes too.'"
The union between Diana and Charles is largely remembered as being tumultuous and destructive. But there was a period of time when the couple were happy - and surprisingly Diana spoke fondly about it shortly before she died.

Just a few weeks before she was tragically killed in a car crash in Paris in 1997, and when she was in a relationship with Dodi Fayed, Diana spoke to royal biographer Ingrid Seward about her wish for her sons and the public to see the love letters Charles had sent her in the early days of their romance. According to The Times , Seward told the Oldie magazine's literary lunch about her conversation she had with Prince William and Harry's mother in which she fondly remembered the early days of her marriage.

Diana told me very shortly before she died that she wished people could see the love letters that she had from Charles," Ingrid said. "She really wanted people to know that she loved Charles and he loved her. And I always remembered that. And she wanted the boys [Princes William and Harry] to know that. There was a period of great love between them.

 

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The Stone Turtle of Karakorum, Mongolia, which dates back to the 1200s CE, holds a significant place in history as it's one of the rare remnants of Karakorum, the ancient capital city of the Mongol Empire.

Founded by Genghis Khan in 1220, Karakorum served as the political and cultural center of the vast Mongol Empire, which was the largest contiguous empire in history.

The statue's presence in Karakorum reflects the city's importance during the height of the Mongol Empire's power.

This period saw the empire's expansion across Eurasia, connecting East and West through a vast network of trade routes known as the Silk Road.

This facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures across continents, contributing to the global history of civilization.

The khadag, a ceremonial scarf, draped over the statue, symbolizes the enduring respect and reverence for the legacy of the Mongol Empire and the historical significance of Karakorum.

It serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and cultural exchanges that took place in this remarkable city during a pivotal era in world history .

 

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Jogging can be a great way to stay fit, but whether you should do it every day depends on a few factors, including your current fitness level, overall health, and personal goals.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Health Status: If you have any health conditions or concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting or changing your exercise routine.
2. Fitness Level: If you’re new to jogging or haven’t been active for a while, starting with a few times a week and gradually increasing frequency might be more appropriate. Your body needs time to adapt.
3. Recovery: Rest days are important to allow your body to recover and prevent overuse injuries. Even if you’re in good shape, mixing up your routine with other activities like strength training, swimming, or biking can help balance your workouts and reduce the risk of injury.
4. Variety: Incorporating variety in your exercise routine can help prevent boredom and work different muscle groups.
5. Listening to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels. If you experience persistent soreness or pain, it might be a sign to adjust your routine.

In summary, jogging every day might be fine for some people, but for most, a balanced approach with some rest days and varied activities tends to be more sustainable and beneficial in the long run