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What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? The best advice I ever received was simple but powerful: never advise someone you don’t know closely. Advice without understanding the person’s life, struggles, and context can sometimes do more harm than good. Real guidance comes only with empathy, trust, and genuine connection.
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If you could bring back one dinosaur, which one would it be? Introduction: Imagine if we could bring back just one dinosaur. Which one would you choose? For me, it’s the Brachiosaurus. Why? Who wouldn’t want a giant, friendly dinosaur that’s safe for humans and great for nature? Brachiosaurus Basics: The Brachiosaurus was a giant,…
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Which aspects do you think makes a person unique? In a world constantly racing ahead, attitude and kindness are two gentle forces that quietly shape lives. Attitude is the lens through which we see the world. Even the most ordinary day begins to shine when it’s positive, hopeful, and open. But attitude alone is not…
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What makes a good leader? Leadership is not about titles, positions, or designations but about a person’s life, experiences, and choices. A great leader leads a life and lives the life that he wants people around him to live. His life was his message; his actions speak louder than words. What One Does Defines a…
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Do you spend more time thinking about the future or the past? Why? I value my present time, where I can make the most difference. It’s the space where life happens, and I try to focus my energy on what’s in front of me. However, like many others, I occasionally worry about the future or…
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What is the greatest gift someone could give you? The best gift that anyone could give me is a genuine smile. A smile relieves barriers, lightens loads, and brings warmth that words cannot describe into the heart. A good smile speaks volumes of kindness, acceptance, and positivity; it radiates warmth most beautifully. It doesn’t cost a…
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Do you play in your daily life? What says “playtime” to you? Crammed by all the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities, it could be a luxury to play. Simple as it may sound, to me, playing is music and all the happiness it can give. I listen to songs that move me, touch my…
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What relationships have a positive impact on you? Relationships are mirror reflections of different sides of our journey, and there have been bonds that have touched my being-ness, shaping me into the person I am today or could ever hope to become. This takes the following forms in my life. 1.Family BondsThe Power of Positive…
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You get to build your perfect space for reading and writing. What’s it like? Peace of mind is the utmost priority for me. The location doesn’t matter to me as long as the space is tranquil. It could be a noiseless room in a corner of a busy city, a simple nook of my home,…
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When are you most happy? Happiness comes in many forms, but some moments stand out more than others. I often feel happiest when surrounded by creativity, whether listening to a beautiful poem that stirs my emotions or playing my guitar and letting its melodies bring me peace. My family is also a source of happiness…
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Describe a man who has positively impacted your life. When I think of a person who has influenced my life, my father stands out. His life was never about extravagance, but the simplicity and patience he carried with him taught me lessons which words could not have conveyed fully. He had always been a quiet,…
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Is your life today what you pictured a year ago? A year ago, I envisioned a life filled with growth, stability, and perhaps a clearer sense of direction. Some of those aspirations have come to fruition—small victories that I am genuinely proud of. Yet, as life often does, it also brought unexpected challenges that I…
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Tell us one thing you hope people say about you. Trust is among the most significant life values. It leads to meaningful relationships, is an adhesive for connections, and is a silent reassurance that someone will always be there for you. If there’s one thing I hope people say about me, it’s that I am…
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What is something others do that sparks your admiration? What impresses me, however, is how some people make even the most serious situations fun, light, and straightforward. That is a rare gift-to bring humour, positivity, or a sense of calm to moments that might otherwise feel overwhelming. They possess a unique ability to read the…
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What could you do less of? Life is entirely about habits, both helpful and unhelpful. Reflecting on this prompt has made me realise that even the most minor changes can create enormous opportunities for growth. By identifying areas where I could step back, I can create more space for productivity, peace, and purpose. 1. Overthinking:…
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What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year? As 2024 draws to a close, it becomes essential to step back and reflect on what I’ve done meaningfully this year and how I can continue growing in the future. One of my significant personal achievements this year has been the time…
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Do you have a favorite place you have visited? Where is it? The Taj Mahal remains one of the most unforgettable places I’ve visited. As a child, I was mesmerised by a small table piece of the Taj Mahal in our home—an oval-shaped replica on a sleek black base. That little keepsake sparked a lifelong…
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What is one thing you would change about yourself? If I could change one thing about myself, it would be to simplify my goals and sharpen my focus. With too many aspirations and commitments, life often feels overwhelming. By reducing the number of items on my bucket list, I could make it more achievable and…
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Are you more of a night or morning person? As a morning person, I cherish the fresh moments of the day, waking up at 5:30 AM to enjoy the beauty of nature—the crisp air, the gentle light, and the cheerful songs of the bird singers. This quiet time is sacred to me; it is a…
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What are your two favorite things to wear? Speaking of my favourite things to wear, two stand out: my running shoes and my sunglasses. My running shoes are more than shoes; they’re my companion every step of the way. They offer just the right mix of support and style for running errands, going for a…
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What’s the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make? Why? The most challenging decision I ever made was to end a long friendship that once seemed unbreakable. Over time, I realised it was no longer healthy- what began as mutual support turned into an expectation to silence my values to maintain the bond. It came…
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Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why? If I had to choose between the beach and the mountains, my heart would always turn to the mountains. Although poets find symbols of freedom and change in the endless waves of the sea, mountains carry more profound spiritual weight. Mountains are tall, unchanging, and stoic giants…
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If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be and why? If I could have dinner with any historical figure, I would choose Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi’s nonviolence and adherence to truth have engraved marks on my mind. His life proved that simplicity and moral strength could work wonders, and his ability to inspire…
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What is your favorite place to go in your city? The Wellington Botanic Garden is my favourite place in the city. This 25-hectare oasis in the heart of Wellington is a great escape, especially during spring when it bursts into colour and beauty. Some of the spring highlights are the tulip displays. The garden has…
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What book are you reading right now? Irrespective, currently I’m reading again How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. It is the second time that I will have finished the book, and it seems that every page has something new. The timeless advice of Carnegie with respect to how to handle people…
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What part of your routine do you always try to skip if you can? It is during travel time, especially peak hour time. The constant waiting in traffic, crowded roads, and unpredictability of the delays make it feel like precious time is slipping away. The peak-hour congestion brings painful legs from holding the brake for…
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Joy fills my heart like mist at dawn, A gentle breeze whispers, urging a quiet yawn. The wind rises, the rain falls soft and light, Each finds its path, following nature’s quiet might. Thoughts wander far, beyond time’s bound, Unfettered, they leave a tale profound. Memories sparkle, bright and clear, As nature shifts from morning…
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In our ever-demanding and fast-paced world, finding a balance between work, sleep, and health can be especially difficult for those working night shifts. As a night shift worker who has experienced the ups and downs of managing energy levels and sleep, I can confidently say that incorporating fasting into my routine has been a lifesaver.…
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How do you manage screen time for yourself? As technology is becoming a permanent part of our daily life, it is amusing to imagine how Darwin’s theory on evolution might affect our future selves. If Darwin were alive today, he probably would have wondered, ‘How would humans evolve to adapt to our screen-filled world? Maybe…
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Food is a universal language; it’s something immediately sensed that reaches back into our roots, binds us with loved ones, and sometimes even connects us to distant cultures. Traditional food’s smells, flavours, and textures bring us back to memories of family gatherings, age-old rituals, and community celebrations. But traditional food is more than just nostalgia-…
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What does it mean to be a kid at heart? There’s something almost magical about how children take pleasure in the simple things in life. Their laughter, curiosity, and ability to live right here and now can teach us all something very valuable. To be “happy like a child,” one enters into that frame of…
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You have three magic genie wishes, what are you asking for? If I had three magic genie wishes, here’s what I would want: Those are my three magic wishes. What would yours be?
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What’s something most people don’t know about you? Some are full of themselves, thinking they are a big deal. What most people don’t know about me is that the quiet, more simple moments in life really bring me joy. It’s things like taking in the sweetness of the perfect cup of tea, the satisfaction of…
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What makes a good neighbor? Good neighbours are like stars; you don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there, quietly shining their light when needed. They may not be the centre of attention, but their presence is felt through small, random acts of kindness, support, and reliability. Like stars in the night sky,…
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What could you try for the first time? I enjoy finding a balance: being social, but loving my alone time. Today, I think I will step out and attempt to try something that pushes both sides—acting. Acting is that activity that requires inner searching of emotions and, at the same time, outer expressiveness and interaction…
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What principles define how you live? Life is a journey defined by the principles we follow, and for me, a few key values shape how I live each day. I’ve always believed in appreciating small victories and wishes. When I fulfill a wish or achieve a goal, no matter how small, I take a moment…
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What have you been putting off doing? Why? I have been procrastinating on learning to play the guitar. Although I had always been very enthusiastic about playing, I never got a chance between work shifts and family matters. It’s hard to carry on with routines, as night shifts are irregular, and dedicating myself to another…
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With people becoming more health-conscious, it is essential to understand the risks that are linked to processed foods. Convenient, yet packed with carcinogenic ingredients, packaged foods will be discussed here. Here we go into some of the commonly found ingredients, how they impact your health, and how one can make healthier choices even in simple…
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If you had a million dollars to give away, who would you give it to? If I had a million dollars to give away, I would invest in initiatives that protect forests, plant trees, and help heal our planet. Nature has been for me a constant source of great inspiration and solace, and giving back…
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What was the hardest personal goal you’ve set for yourself? Many times in life, at one point or another, there are instances when people say things that are harsh or act in ways that can cause annoyance. For quite some time, whenever such situations occurred, I was being irritated and allowing my emotions to take…
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Who are your favorite artists? Art is the universal language of the soul, and I draw inspiration from anything around me: music, painting, food, literature, or anything else. Here is the list of my favourite artists concerning global and Indian influences. Music: • AR Rahman: The “Mozart of Madras,” Rahman’s music cuts across religious and…
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Tell us about a time when you felt out of place. We did a two-day trip from home in Wellington, heading towards Cape Palliser in New Zealand. It took about an hour’s drive from Wellington to Featherston, which was scenic with lovely views of the surrounding landscape. The following morning, having spent the night in…
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What skill would you like to learn? Among the skills I want to improve, “panchendriyangal” – the five senses – is crucial for enhancing my presence of mind. With distractions everywhere, being present is more important than ever. This ability brings clarity, confidence, and direction to what we want to see, hear, and experience, leading…
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What details of your life could you pay more attention to? First, I need to nurture self-love: accepting my imperfections, celebrating my strengths, finding peace. Giving more attention to this basic foundation will help me generate deeper inner strength and resilience to deal with life’s challenges with grace and confidence. This love-within journey further blossoms…
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In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled? Then, hard work becomes truly fulfilling as passion, deep learning, order, and practical thinking emerge. Passion is that spark which lights up one’s path and infuses life and energy into the journey ahead. This inner drive makes even the most demanding challenges feel meaningful, thus…
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What’s the trait you value most about yourself If there is one trait I hold in higher regard than any other, it is empathy. Growing up in Kerala, my parents, especially my father, showed acts of kindness and compassion wherever they went. They always came forward for others, extending their helping hand whenever needed. From…
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During my recent visit to Kerala, I had this privilege to get first-hand exposure to this magical world of Kathakali: a traditional dance-drama which depicts age-old stories. I was staying near the town of Kumily and was anxious to experience Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Along with the natural beauty of the Periyar Sanctuary of Thekkady,…
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List three jobs you’d consider pursuing if money didn’t matter. If money was no concern, these three passions would bring a tremendous amount of joy and fulfillment to the dedication of my life to them: 1. Travel Writer: Something magical belongs to the freedom to wander through virgin territories, to steep myself in various cultures,…
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What brands do you associate with? I’ve always believed in choosing quality over quantity, and that’s reflected in the brands and choices I connect with. Recently, during my holiday in India, I bought linen material for two shirts. I had them stitched by my longtime tailor, who has been crafting my clothes for years. It…
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After spending the last twenty years abroad, I missed the chance to return home for Onam. This year, the festival holds special significance for me, as I finally returned to Kerala, not only to reconnect with my roots but also to celebrate Onam. For the past eight days, I’ve been staying at Thekkedy House, a…
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This avocado ice cream is the perfect treat if you want a quick, delicious, and unique recipe! Thanks to the natural oils in ripe avocados, its creamy texture makes it a healthy and tasty dessert you can prepare in just 10 minutes. Ingredients: – 2 ripe avocados (choose ones with dark skin for the perfect…
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Mental health is essential to our overall well-being, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked. Unfortunately, many people are not fully aware of their mental health needs. Even minor mental health issues can have a ripple effect, impacting not just the individual but also their entire family and potentially the next generation. This is why…
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What TV shows did you watch as a kid? As a kid, my first introduction to “Tom and Jerry” and “Vikram Aur Betaal” was through picture books. I loved reading about Tom, the cat, and Jerry, the clever mouse, with their funny battles and surprises. I also enjoyed the stories of “Vikram Aur Betaal,” with…
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Minimalism is more than just a trend; it’s a philosophy that encourages us to focus on what truly matters by eliminating the unnecessary. This approach can be applied not only to our physical spaces but also to our minds and relationships. Through two disciples’ simple yet powerful stories, we can uncover valuable lessons on how…
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Where did your name come from? Names are more than just words; they carry The Story Behind My Name: “Siby” history and meaning. My name, “Siby,” is a story connecting me to my roots and family traditions. Here’s a look at what makes my name unique. A Legendary King In Indian mythology, “Siby” (or “Sibi…
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Create an emergency preparedness plan. Introduction: In today’s unpredictable world, being prepared for emergencies is crucial. This guide focuses on the critical elements needed to ensure the safety of your family, neighbours, and pets during a crisis. 1. Stay Calm Assess the Situation:Take a moment to breathe and think clearly before acting. Identify Immediate…
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Introduction: Our world is amazing. One of the most incredible things is how seasons and time zones change everything around us. When one part of the world is enjoying summer, another part might be in the middle of winter. Artists, poets, and writers have often found these changes interesting. Let’s take a fun and accessible…
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What is a word you feel that too many people use? A word that I feel too many people use is “acceptable.” It’s a word that gets used often to describe something that meets the basic standard. But when we use “acceptable” too much, it can make things sound just okay, even when they might…
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Describe your life in an alternate universe. In an alternative universe, I live on a peaceful tropical island. My home is small and eco-friendly, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. I am a well-known artist who paints the island’s stunning views and the rich culture of its people. My family and I enjoy a simple,…
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Scour the news for an entirely uninteresting story. Consider how it connects to your life. Write about that I recently read an unremarkable news story about a local park installing a new bench. Initially, it seemed unimportant but it led me to reflect on the deeper connections such small changes can have in our lives.…
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List 30 things that make you happy. 1. Spending Time with Family 2.Traveling to New Places 3. Tasting Different Foods 4. Cooking and Serving Food 5. Do DIY Projects 6. Gardening 7. Watching Traditional Dances and Arts 8. Listening to Music 9. Singing songs 10. Writing Blogs 11. Learning New Skills 12. Overcoming Life’s Challenges…
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Describe one habit that brings you joy One habit that brings me immense joy is cooking and serving food to others. There’s something deeply satisfying about trying new recipes, mixing different flavours, and continuously improving my culinary skills. The process is calming and enjoyable, from selecting the freshest ingredients to the rhythmic chopping and stirring.…
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What are you curious about? Exploring My Passions Curiosity drives me to learn, explore, and grow. Here’s what I’m most curious about: Learning Music I’m fascinated by Indian classical music. Understanding its rhythms and scales helps me appreciate its beauty and complexity. Travel and Exploration I love travelling, meeting new people, and tasting vegetarian foods…
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Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone. One cold winter afternoon, I went to the public laundry to dry my clothes. I saw an older man struggling with a wheelbarrow full of wet clothes. He seemed weak and had trouble lifting the clothes into the dryer. I walked over and offered…
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How would you describe yourself to someone who can’t see you I would describe myself as curious and friendly. I enjoy exploring new places, trying different foods, and having meaningful conversations. People often find me warm and easy to talk to, with a sense of humour. I love writing and sharing stories to inspire and…
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Introduction games have brought joy to children across generations and continents. In India, the ‘Goli Game’ holds a special place in the hearts of many. Let’s dive into this delightful tradition and see how marble games are played worldwide. The Goli Game in India –History and Significance: Known as ‘Kancha’ in some regions, the Goli…
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How would you describe yourself to someone? Hi, I’m Siby. Originally from South India, I now live in New Zealand. Born in the early seventies, I’ve faced many challenges that have shaped who I am today. My career has been diverse: front office staff in hotels, lightman on film sets in Mumbai, customs clerk at…
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Introduction Music isn’t just for entertainment—it’s a powerful tool that can make a big difference in your life. From boosting your workouts and helping you sleep better to managing emotions and building confidence, here’s how music can help. Boost Your Workouts Get Energized Fast, upbeat songs can pump you up, making exercise more enjoyable. The…
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From a young age, society told me how to dress, behave, and what dreams to pursue. But what happens when these expectations suffocate our true selves? This is the story of how I broke free from society’s mold and found my true self. The Burden of Conformity Growing up, I constantly felt the weight of…
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Introduction: Women have incredible beauty, kindness, and a unique ability to love and satisfy men. Their contributions in both professional and personal spheres are vast and invaluable. Women handle challenges with skill, care, and romantic qualities. It’s time to celebrate the strengths and beauty of women who inspire us daily. The Power of Insight: Women’s…
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If you could bring back one dinosaur, which one would it be? Introduction: Imagine if we could bring back just one dinosaur. Which one would you choose? For me, it’s the Brachiosaurus. Why? Who wouldn’t want a giant, friendly dinosaur that’s safe for humans and great for nature? Brachiosaurus Basics: The Brachiosaurus was a giant,…
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Dreams keep us vibrant and alive. When we stop dreaming, we start ageing—not just in years but in spirit. Dreams give us hope, direction, and purpose, inspiring us to strive for more and keep our hearts youthful. Reconnecting with my passions, I set new goals. Learning new skills, planning adventures, and envisioning a better self…
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If you won two free plane tickets, where would you go? Travel has always inspired me, and Morocco is my dream destination. Winning two free plane tickets would be a dream come true. Here’s why: Marrakech Magic: I’m eager to explore Marrakech’s bustling souks, stunning palaces, and lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. The city’s vibrant energy…
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In today’s fast-paced world, modern sexual relationships face numerous challenges and influences. Couples must navigate a complex landscape, from maintaining sexual health to addressing the impact of technology. This guide offers practical advice for maintaining healthy, fulfilling relationships in the digital age. Boosting Sexual Health and Confidence Natural Supplements and Boosters Maintaining sexual health can…
Siby Inspires. 