#how to improve concentration and focus while studying

[ranjith11]

Fixing The Mental Focus That Is Wretchedly Out Of Shape

Fixing mental focus can be a challenging task, especially in today's world where distractions are everywhere. However, there are some effective ways to improve mental focus and concentration. One of the most important steps is to minimize distractions by creating a quiet and clutter-free environment.Thank you for watching the video. Fixing The Mental Focus That Is Wretchedly Out Of Shape

[mindfulstudyquest]

❥﹒♡﹒☕﹒ 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲-𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄

𝟭. set SMART goals ( 📒 )

make sure your goals are specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and time-bound. this will help you maintain focus and track your progress over time. how many times has it been you and your unrealistic to-do list against the world? well, it seems that a mile-long to-do list is not a good ally at all. remember that you are a person and not a machine, and that just dedicating four hours to deep work and concentration is A LOT. be kind to yourself and don't overload yourself with more work than you can humanly do.

𝟮. daily planning ( 🧸 )

mea culpa because i'm the first one who doesn't plan their day. to-do lists generally stress me out and make me feel overwhelmed as if i don't manage to complete all the tasks an asteroid will end up hitting the earth. but i recognize that it is a good starting point. sometimes i have too many things to do and i end up doing nothing in total confusion, but having at least a general list to follow gives me more motivation. moreover do we want to talk about the dopamine released when you tick an empty box? marvelous. maybe don't write down tasks that are too onerous and demanding, break them into several smaller tasks, also try to write simple activities such as "drink a glass of water" every now and then. having these low-commitment activities will help you stay motivated while completing more important tasks.

𝟯. reverse-engineering method ( 🪴 )

start with the end goal and work backwards to plan the actions needed to achieve it. this helps you maintain clarity on the steps to take and focus on the most relevant actions. the best thing to do is plan based on the time available and do your best to stick to your daily goal.

𝟰. timer roulette ( ⏳ )

choose a task from your to-do list and set a random timer between 15 and 45 minutes. work on that task with all your concentration until the timer goes off. this helps you fight procastination and keep your mind fresh.

𝟱. mind mapping time ( 📍 )

before starting a study session, take a few minutes to create a mental map of the subject you need to cover. this helps you see connections between concepts and organize information more effectively.

𝟲. task batching ( 🫒 )

group similar tasks together and tackle them in batches. for example, reply to all emails in one session rather than doing so at scattered times throughout the day. this helps you reduce transition time between tasks and maintain focus. contrary to popular belief, human beings are not truly multitasking (only a few possess this great ability) and when we do multiple things together we do nothing but shift our attention from one task to another, greatly reducing the quality of our performance. if possible, try to avoid these switches that are harmful to your focus and concentration.

𝟳. the pomodoro method ( 🍅 )

okay, y'all probably already know this one because it became so popular in the last year but if you don't, the pomodoro method is a time management technique developed by francesco cirillo in the late 80s. it is based on the idea of working for short periods of time, usually 25 minutes, followed by a short 5 minute break. after four rounds of work, a longer break is taken, usually 15-30 minutes. this technique helps improve concentration and productivity, as it breaks down work into manageable tasks and offers regular breaks to rest and regenerate energy. i personally prefer the 50/10 ratio while i'm studying but you decide which time ratio is better for you, i find it really useful and it helps me a lot while i'm studying for my exams.

[itsnesss]

𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 | axel kovacevik × fem!reader

summary | it's valentine's day, and instead of celebrating the holiday, you focus on training at the dojo. axel gives you a thoughtful gift and though it’s small, it means a lot to you

warnings | fluff, mild language, suggestive undertones

word count | 1.8 k

author's note | it would help me a lot if you liked, commented and reposted so that more people read what I write and don't forget to follow me, thanks ᡣ𐭩

The fresh February air brushes your face as you walk toward the Iron Dragons dojo, your footsteps echoing on the sidewalk wet from the melted snow. It's February 14th, and while the streets are filled with couples exchanging gifts and sweet words, you decide to ignore all the Valentine's Day buzz and focus on what really matters: training.

But there's something different today. As soon as you step into the dojo, you notice a lighter atmosphere than usual. There are a few red balloons at the entrance, a small bowl of chocolates at the reception, and although no one says anything, you can notice some knowing glances between the students.

Axel is in his usual spot, practicing with the punching bag. His posture is firm, his concentration unwavering, but something in his expression seems different today. You find yourself watching him for a moment before approaching.

"You're still here on Valentine's Day?" you ask with a hint of amusement in your voice.

He stops and turns toward you, his dark hair slightly disheveled from the workout.

"And you?" he responds with a half-smile.

You shrug, feigning indifference.

"It's not like I had better plans."

Axel studies you for a moment, his gaze as intense as ever. You feel a slight flutter in your stomach, that annoying but exciting feeling that always appears when he's near.

"Alright, then let's train," he says, giving you a light tap on the shoulder before heading toward the tatami.

You can't help but smile as you follow him.

After nearly an hour of training, you're out of breath, but satisfied. Axel has been more challenging than usual, pushing you to improve with every punch, every move. But there's something else in his attitude today. Something softer in the way he looks at you, in the way he smiles when you dodge his attacks.

When the training ends, the others start to leave one by one, leaving you alone with Axel in the dojo. You grab a towel and wipe the sweat from your forehead, feeling your heart still racing, though you're not sure if it's from the sparring or from his presence so close.

"Wait," Axel suddenly says, pulling something from his gym bag.

You look at him with curiosity as he approaches and extends his hand. In his palm is a small box wrapped in red paper.

"What's this?" you ask, surprised.

Axel looks away for a second, almost as if he's uncomfortable, but then he locks his eyes with yours again, with determination.

"Just open it."

You slide your fingers across the paper until you reveal its contents: a metal keychain with a small dragon carved into it. The figure is detailed, with its wings spread and a fierce but graceful expression.

"It's... incredible," you murmur, unsure of what else to say.

Axel scratches the back of his neck, as if he's struggling to explain the gesture.

"I saw it and thought of you," he finally says. "I didn’t know if you'd like it, but... I wanted to give you something."

You feel an unexpected warmth spreading across your chest. It's a small gift, but the meaning behind it makes it more valuable than any bouquet of roses or box of chocolates.

You lift your gaze to meet his, noticing how his jaw is tense, as if he's waiting for you to mock him or reject the gesture. But all you can do is smile.

"Thank you, Axel. I love it."

He nods, as if relieved.

"Good. Because if you'd rejected it, that would��ve been a low blow."

You laugh at his comment, and without thinking too much, you step forward and hug him. You feel his body tense for a moment before relaxing, his arms wrapping around you with more softness than you expected.

When you pull away, his eyes are fixed on yours, and for a moment, the air between you changes.

"Happy Valentine's Day," you murmur.

Axel watches you for a second longer before giving a small smile.

"Happy Valentine's Day."

And even though it may not have been a perfect date with candles and fancy dinners, you know this is the best Valentine's Day you could have had.

[ale-wosofan]

tired

Ona x R

R is exhausted after a long day at work.

warnings: none

a/n: this took way longer than it should have, but I'm studying for my exams and I've read this so many times that English doesn't feel like a real language anymore. Anyways, enjoy!

-----

If there is something you hate is having to wake up early. Thankfully your work doesn’t require it unless something important comes up. You love waking up slowly, taking your time to admire your girlfriend’s sleeping form and the way she always looks so calm. You usually wake her up by leaving kisses all over her face and, once you’re sure she won’t fall asleep again, you cook a nice breakfast for the two of you while she gets ready for training.

Sadly for you today you haven’t been able to do any of those things. You slipped out of bed as soon as your alarm woke you up, so you wouldn’t disturb Ona. The hours passed slowly as all you have been able to think about is getting back to your bed and your girlfriend.

Having been awake since six in the morning, when you finally get home you’re more than a little exhausted.

Ona is by your side before you can even close the door.

“Hola, mi vida,” she greets you placing a soft kiss on your lips and opening her arms for you “How was your day?”

You can only grunt in response melting into her arms, not really in the mood to talk. Your girlfriend lets out a chuckle and just hugs you tighter.

“You smell nice,” you murmur burrowing your head on her neck to take a deep breath “I missed you.”

Ona laughs again and you can't help but smile at hearing your favourite sound “You saw me this morning.”

“Exactly. Way too long ago.”

Just when your eyes start to close she takes a step back from your embrace.

“What do you want to have for dinner today? Sushi?” your face lights up at the mention of your favourite food “Sushi it is.”

“Thank you, love. I’m gonna go take a shower.”

You take longer than usual in the bathroom since all the exhaustion from the day is starting to catch up to you, but you somehow manage to shower without falling asleep standing up. Once you’ve gotten into more comfortable clothes you walk over to the couch where your girlfriend is sitting playing with her phone.

You drop yourself on her lap and lay your face in her chest.

“Dinner should be here in ten minutes or so,” Ona says setting her phone down and beginning to run her hands up and down your back.

You hum happily and focus on the hard thump of her heart in your ear. With the feeling of her steady breaths underneath you, you feel yourself starting to drift off. You’re about to fall asleep when the sound of the doorbell rudely interrupts you, forcing your girlfriend to get up and you to try to wake up before eating.

-----

Your mood unsurprisingly improves once you’ve gotten some proper food and drink in your stomach. Normally after dinner the two of you sit down to watch TV for a little while, but today you’re too tired to even concentrate.

You are ten minutes into the film when Ona speaks.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah, just tired,” you mumble trying to stay awake.

You frown when your girlfriend turns the TV off and gets up offering you a hand. “Let’s go to sleep then.”

Smiling at her, you take her hand and let her lead you to the bedroom. Once you’re both settled in bed she wraps her arms around your waist, bringing you closer to her.

“Te amo,” Ona whispers in your hair.

You lift your head from where you have buried it in her neck and blink a few times, trying to shake off the sleep a little bit so you can properly answer her.

“I love you too. G’night.”

Before resuming your previous position though, you take your girlfriend’s face in your hands and kiss her sweetly. It’s a pretty short kiss, you can barely see Ona’s face in the darkness and you’re already half asleep, but you are in bed after a really long day in the arms of the woman you love; you couldn’t have asked for anything better.

“Buenas noches, cariño.”

[inmyglowupera]

Mindset Shift #3: You Need to Learn How to Plan and Cook Your Meals—There’s No Way Around It!

Did You Know?

Studies show that for the same number of calories consumed, people eating processed foods are more likely to experience weight gain compared to those eating whole foods.

Here’s why this happens:

Thermic Effect of Food (TEF):

• Whole foods like lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables require more energy to digest, absorb, and metabolize.

• Processed foods are often pre-digested (e.g., refined carbs), meaning your body spends less energy breaking them down, storing more as fat.

• A study published in Food & Nutrition Research (2010) found that a meal of whole foods increased energy expenditure by 50% compared to a meal of processed foods of the same calorie count.

Satiety and Nutrient Density:

• Whole foods are richer in fiber, protein, and water, which keep you fuller longer.

• Processed foods are often calorie-dense but nutrient-poor, leading to overeating.

Blood Sugar Spikes:

• Processed foods often cause quick spikes and crashes in blood sugar, triggering hunger and cravings sooner than whole foods would.

Learning to Cook Can Be Daunting, But Here’s How to Start:

Start Small: Focus on mastering 2–3 simple recipes you enjoy. Build confidence by perfecting these before moving on to more.

Meal Prep Basics: Plan meals for the week, batch-cook staples like grilled chicken or roasted veggies, and keep your pantry stocked with essentials like spices, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Keep It Simple: Use minimal ingredients and techniques at first. For example, a stir-fry with fresh veggies, protein, and a simple sauce can be quick and nutritious.

Get Curious About Food:

To make better food choices, it’s important to read labels and understand nutritional information. Here’s how:

Start with Ingredients: The fewer the ingredients, the better. Avoid items with a long list of unrecognizable additives.

Watch for Hidden Sugar and Sodium: Processed foods often sneak in sugar under names like maltose or high-fructose corn syrup. Check for sodium content, especially in packaged meals.

Focus on Nutrient Density: Look for foods high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats while being lower in refined carbs.

Be Wary of “Low Calorie/Low Sugar/Low Fat” Options:

Many “low” options can have unintended consequences:

1. Increased Hunger:

• Artificial sweeteners or fat replacements often leave you unsatisfied, leading to overeating.

• A study in Obesity Reviews (2010) showed that artificial sweeteners might increase appetite in some individuals.

2. Insulin Imbalance: Sugar substitutes can trigger insulin release even without calories, causing blood sugar instability.

3. Hidden Additives: Low-calorie or low-fat foods often replace natural fats or sugars with artificial additives that don’t support your health.

Reframe your mindset about cooking: it’s not a chore—it can be a fun meditative self-care experience.

Cooking engages all five senses, requiring focus on the present moment, which can have a calming effect on your nervous system. Here’s why:

1. Sensory Stimulation:

• The aroma of spices, the sound of sizzling pans, the texture of fresh ingredients, the sight of vibrant colors, and the taste of the final dish all ground you in the moment.

• Sensory activities like these can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

2. Mindfulness in Action:

• Cooking requires concentration on specific steps—chopping, measuring, mixing—which can act as a form of mindfulness, quieting racing thoughts.

• A study in Frontiers in Psychology (2014) found that mindfulness-based activities, even in small doses, improve mood and reduce anxiety.

3. Creative Outlet: Experimenting with flavors and presentation can turn cooking into a form of self-expression, which enhances mental well-being.

4. Sense of Accomplishment: Completing a meal, especially one you’ve planned and cooked yourself, fosters a sense of pride and satisfaction, boosting confidence.

All of this to say, making time for cooking and learning how to do it is not an option to lead a healthy lifestyle. Find cooking influencers who inspire you to try new recipes and offer advice for beginners. Get a beginner friendly cooking book with recipes you like and make it a journey to complete as many recipes during the year. You’ll soon recognize the common patterns in cooking and will be able to trust your abilities to nourish yourself in no time!

[lisupandowntown]

Sick for Science III - Dr TikTok

A/N: This is for everyone who voted for Jeremiah accidentally getting sick making a medical video. Totally not related to the plot or timeline. It will go into the minific masterlist. It is also completely unedited.

Jeremiah adjusted his white coat so it hung smoothly and smiled at the camera mounted near the door.  Drew gave him a silent countdown, and as soon as the red light went on, he took a deep breath and began. 

“Hello, I’m Dr. Gable, cardiac surgery resident at Massachusetts General, and here with another episode of Health 101.”  He leaned casually against the corner of his desk and gestured to a table full of cans in front of him.  ���Today I’m going to be talking about energy drinks. Everyone seems to be drinking them these days - to help get through an all-night study session for school, to be more sharp and focused at the office, to enhance your workout.   But do they really help?  And more importantly, can they hurt?”  

He stopped and cleared his throat, waving at Drew to keep the camera running.  After almost a dozen of these videos he’d become more comfortable at speaking and working through mistakes.  Most could be fixed later with editing and retakes.  

“Energy drinks like these have a lot of caffeine, sugar, and other additives, which means they can quickly affect your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar.”  Jeremiah cracked one open and held the can up to the microphone to catch the sound of the carbonation. “And that can lead to jitteriness and loss of concentration, no matter how much their marketing departments say about improving your focus.  But don’t just take my word for it.”  He grinned into the camera and delivered what had become his signature line.  

“Let’s test the medical science, shall we?” 

Jeremiah glanced across his home office.  While he filmed some content at the hospital, he and Drew had turned this space in their home into a studio that looked like a medical examination room. It had a big ring light and a couple of mounted holders for the cameras and phones.  And he’d opened up the portable exam table for a touch of authenticity, even though he didn’t really need it for this video. 

“Right then. Before we get started, I need to take a baseline reading of my physiology, which means it’s time to bring in everyone’s favorite nurse, Drew Thorton!”  

Drew rolled his eyes right before walking into the frame and standing next to Jeremiah.  He didn’t join in the videos too often, but he’d already gained a following of his own, as well as the nickname “the IV King” after he’d successfully inserted one on camera for a patient who’d pronounced his technique “top notch”. 

“Sit down and give me your arm,” he commanded.  Swiftly and efficiently, he checked Jeremiah’s blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, and finally his blood sugar with a tiny jab to his index finger.  

“All your results are completely average,” Drew proclaimed.  His lips twitched. There were too many opportunities for jokes and innuendo, and both of them had to be careful to keep these official videos entirely professional.  Their private stash of “personal content” was saved in an entirely different place, firmly off the cloud.  

“Last thing before I drink the first can, I’m going to do this online brain puzzle to test my reflexes and response times." Jeremiah shared his screen and quickly rushed through the program - matching shapes, completing pictures, putting numbers and words in order. “Done,” he announced.  “Twenty-four seconds.” 

“A personal best,” commented Drew.  “Let’s see how you do after your first can.”

“It’s 12 ounces, which comes with 122 mg of caffeine and 29 grams of sugar. For reference, an ordinary cup of black coffee has 95 mg of caffeine.”  Out of the corner of his eye, Jeremiah saw Drew shudder at the mention of black coffee. The drink upset his stomach, and the couple of times he’d had too much it had kept in the bathroom for hours.  

“Bottoms up!”  Jeremiah chugged the can of energy drink, stopping twice to take a breath and let himself burp.  Most of those would be edited out later - he had no interest in fueling anyone’s online emeto fantasies. 

Jeremiah turned off the camera during the ten minutes he needed to wait before doing the medical tests again.  Drew fussed over him the entire time. “Exactly how many cans do you plan to drink, love?  I don’t like you putting so much of that crap into your body, even for science.”   

Jeremiah rolled his eyes at his boyfriend. “That’s the point; I want to explain that these types of energy drinks aren’t as innocent as a lot of people believe.” He burped into his fist.  “Maybe I’ll convince someone to cut down or even stop drinking them, and that will be worth it.”  

“Hmmm.” Drew looked unconvinced.  “If I start seeing really concerning test results I’m calling this off right away.”

“Yes nurse,” Jeremiah teased.  “So far I feel fine.  Ready to turn the camera back on?”

All of Jeremiah’s labs were slightly elevated and it took him 27 seconds to complete the computer games.  “I’m not really feeling anything yet,” he told his audience once Drew was finished taking his pulse. “Caffeine takes 10 minutes to enter the bloodstream and with the amount of sugar in the drink, it will be about 30 to reach peak effects.  I’m going to drink a can every ten minutes or so, so by the time I’ve had three we should be getting some interesting results.”

Drew’s lips tightened with disapproval but he had to tact to turn his head away first, on the pretense of putting away the blood pressure cuff. “Here you go, another 122 mg of caffeine and 29 grams of sugar, doctor,” he said formally, handing Jeremiah the second can as if he was passing him a scalpel in the middle of surgery.  

Jeremiah managed to finish this can in one try, smacking his lips at the end and holding down the need to burp while he spoke to the camera. “I can definitely taste all the sugar,” he reported. “Maybe next time I’ll try this with the sugar free varieties.”  He gave a little salute to the unseen audience.  “See you all in ten.”

“You’re absolutely not doing this again,” Drew scolded as soon as the camera was off.  “Sugar free or not.”  

“Hold on, yell at me after I . . . UrruRP . . . burp.  Phew.”  Jeremiah sagged in his seat.  “I was holding it in that time; easier not to have to edit so many out later.”  He leaned over and squeezed Drew’s hand.  “You were saying?”

“You’re an idiot,” the man said fondly.  “And did you eat anything today?”  

Jeremiah let up another soft burp before answering.  “Toast and eggs for breakfast this morning but nothing since then; I didn’t want to be too full or dilute the effects of the drinks.”  

“Of course you didn’t,” sighed Drew.  “How are you feeling?’  

“A little hyped up but otherwise fine,” Jeremiah answered honestly.  “I hope I start showing more results soon; it would be embarrassing to actually prove these drinks don’t do all the terrible things I said.”

“I’ll remind you that you said that two drinks from now,” Drew said dryly. 

Twenty-five minutes later, Jeremiah had to admit that his boyfriend might have been right.  He’d just finished his fourth can and was now leaning over his lap forcing up as many small burps as he could to try to clear the heaviness in his belly before it was time to go back on camera.

“It’s sloshing,” he complained, palming his side.  “I’m going to be up peeing all night.”  

“Do you want me to say I told you so?” asked Drew pointedly.  He was carefully charting Jeremiah’s latest results on a bar graph.  “Your blood pressure and heart rate are definitely elevated,” he commented.  “We’ll do another finger prick after your next can; maybe that can be the last one?  You’re looking sweaty.”  

Jeremiah rubbed a towel roughly over his face.  “I think I can finish two more,” he said stubbornly. “I want to make my point.”  

“That six energy drinks in an hour will make you feel sick?  I’m pretty sure you’ll prove that point.” Drew looked at his watch.  “Time to turn the camera back on; if your heart rate stays above 100 resting, I’m ending this.”  He scowled at Jeremiah. “I’m not risking tachycardia.”

“I’m fine,” Jeremiah protested.  Truth was, he was feeling a little bit queasy now.  But it wasn’t bad enough that he couldn’t hide it.  It was only two more cans; and the educational value for his viewers would be huge.

“And we’re back.”  Jeremiah injected as much enthusiasm as possible into his voice.  “Four cans down and now Nurse Thorton’s going to . . . urp . . .’scuse me . . . He’s going to do his nursing magic.”  Jeremiah touched his fingers lightly to his lips.  Maybe he’d keep that one little burp in the video; in the interest of medical accuracy.  The point of this was to show how bad energy drinks were, after all.

Drew put on a show too, announcing Jeremiah’s increasingly elevated heart rate and blood pressure in an upbeat and professional voice.  Only Jeremiah could hear the disapproval underneath.  Now it was time to do the computer tests, and he squinted at the screen so he could start completing the puzzles.  His head was swimming from all the sugar and it was definitely hard to focus on the small shapes and numbers dancing across the screen.

“Forty-five seconds,” Drew pronounced.  “That’s a decrease of almost 50 percent since your baseline.”  

“Energy drinks inhibit your concentration,” Jeremiah told the camera.  He rubbed his face.  “I’m even feeling a bit dizzy now, and my blood sugar is skyrocketing.  Shall we see what happens after a fifth can?”  Before Drew could try to protest, Jeremiah cracked it open.  If he was being honest, he really didn’t want to drink it, but this was for science.  He’d seen teens in the ER with symptoms that mimicked heart attacks from drinking too many energy drinks and he wanted to make his point.

The fifth can took longer to get down.  Jeremiah knew he’d have to do some heavier editing to cut out all the times he had to stop to burp or catch his breath, but finally the can was empty.  He gave the camera a jaunty salute.  

“See . . . see you in ten,” he promised, choking down a small gag.  

As soon as the camera was off, Drew turned to him.  “Can we be done now?” he asked testily.  “There’s no way I’m going to let you drink another one of these.  You’ve made your point, Jer - you look terrible.” 

“I feel terrible,” Jeremiah groaned, easily giving up the act.  “I’m so full I don’t even think I can burp anymore.”  Even so he pressed his fingers into his side, trying to work up some air.

“Let me do that.”  Drew impatiently pushed his hands away.  “I’m known all over the hospital for my magic fingers.”  

“All over our bedroom too,” Jeremiah joked with a queasy chuckle.  It was true though; Drew was regularly called to other parts of the hospital to help patients manage their nausea.  The man seemed to have a knack for it and right now Jeremiah was especially glad for his careful ministrations.  He leaned back in his chair and let Drew’s hands roam over his bloated belly until he was finally able to work up a few thin burps.  “Definitely not going to drink another can.”  

“I’d smack you if you even tried,” agreed Drew.  “Sixty ounces is almost two liters of liquid.”  

“My mouth feels coated in sugar.”  Jeremiah gulped as Drew hit a sensitive spot and everything inside of him sloshed uncomfortably.  “Is it time yet?  I need to get this done so I can go lie down.”  

“Yep, time to put on your movie star face, Dr. TikTok.”  Drew picked up the blood pressure cuff.  “Ready for the show?”

“Kill me now,” groaned Jeremiah.  

He didn’t completely hide his discomfort for the last segment, although he kept quiet about exactly how sick he was feeling.

“I’m definitely dizzy,” he told his audience, biting back the urge to gag.  “And I’m starting to feel slightly nauseated.  So keep that in mind the next time you want to grab an energy drink.”  He swallowed hard and sat very still, relieved not to talk while Drew briskly took his blood pressure and then pricked his finger for the final blood sugar count.  

“All your levels are well above the normal range,” he announced.  “I suggest you drink a big glass of water to flush out your system.”  

“Good idea. . . nurse.  I’ll do that.”  Jeremiah didn’t bother telling his viewers that there was no way he’d be able to keep a cup of water down right now.  But he had to finish strong, so he choked down another bubble of air and smiled into the camera.

“If my body reacted this poorly to only five . . . hic . . . drinks, imagine what a couple of day would do to you over the long run.”  He rubbed unabashedly at his chest.  “I’m Dr. Gable and thank you for joining me while I tested the medical science.  See you next time.”  

As soon as Drew switched off the camera Jeremiah groaned and dropped his head into his hands.  “Fuck.  It’s all catching up to me.”  He looked up to gaze mournfully at his boyfriend.  “I don’t feel well.”  

“No shit,” laughed Drew.  “Let’s take your energized belly back to our bedroom where I can take care of you properly, okay?”  

Jeremiah let himself be slowly hauled to his feet. “I hope all the shots turned out, because there is no way I’m going to be able to re-record any of that.”  His stomach whined and he choked back a retch.  “I feel like the liquid is climbing up my throat.” 

Drew stopped walking and took Jeremiah’s face in his hands.  “I don’t like the way your face looks,” he decided. “Should we go sit in the bathroom?”

“Gee, thanks,” said Jeremiah with half-hearted sarcasm.  “I thought you liked my face.”

“Not when it’s this nauseated because of poor decisions,” said Drew primly.  “You may be able to empty your belly but I’m afraid you’ll be feeling the effects of all the caffeine and sugar for a while longer.”  He shook his head.  “Can’t you make videos about things like the proper way to perform a neurological exam?”

“That’s next,” groaned Jeremiah.  In the bedroom he grabbed Drew’s hand and pressed it to his middle. “Feel how much it’s churning?” 

“I do; and I can hear it too.”  Drew disappeared into their walk-in closet and returned with a pair of Jeremiah’s baggiest sweatpants - the one he didn’t let anyone but Drew see him wear.  “I assume tonight calls for your maternity bottoms?” he asked with a grin.

“Fuck you.”  Jeremiah fell back onto the bed.  “Can you pull off my pants?  If I bend over I’m going to throw up all over the floor.”

“Ooh, sexy,” Drew teased.  Once he’d pulled off Jeremiah’s shoes and pants he climbed up onto the bed next to him.  “What can I do to help?”  

Jeremiah was relieved Drew wasn’t teasing him more, even though he’d be completely justified in doing so.  He slowly sat up. “Wait . . .urrurp . . . wait here while I go pee.” 

“Drink some water in there,” Drew instructed.  “I meant it about needing to flush your system.”  

Jeremiah didn’t bother answering.  He peed for what felt like a full minute and was disappointed that he felt just as bloated and gross and jittery after he was done.  He slowly filled a cup with water and leaned against the sink, staring at it and trying to convince himself to take a sip.

“Are you coming back to bed?”  Drew appeared at the door to their bedroom.  You’re staring at that water like it’s personally offended you. “

Jeremiah slowly put the cup back on the counter.  “I’m about to personally offend it, you mean.” He swallowed hard.  “I’m going to drink it and then throw it back up.” 

“And then we can finally get in bed,” Drew finished.  He picked up the cup. “Get down and put your head close to the bowl,” he ordered.  “So you don’t get too much splashback.”

Jeremiah chuckled weakly as he lowered himself to the ground.  “Spoken like someone who’s been puked on more than once, nurse.”  

“The number of people who don’t know how to vomit properly,” he agreed.  “Let’s not you be one of them.” 

Jeremiah cradled his belly.  “It feels like a waterbed in there." As soon as he leaned over and braced his hands on the sides of the seat he belched, deep and wet.  “Maybe . . . maybe I don’t need the water.”  

Drew began rubbing his back.  “Either way I’m giving you water after you vomit.  You’ll feel much better later; I promise.” 

Jeremiah spit into the bowl.  “It’s almost like being drunk,” he groaned.  “I feel so woozy.”  He spit again, cloudy and thick. His heart felt like it was beating out of his chest, a reaction, no doubt, from the 600 mg of caffeine and almost 150 grams of sugar.  “This was really stupid.”  Against his better judgment he began panting, trying to force something up.  

“That’s only going to make you more dizzy,” Drew chided.  “Here.” He thrust the cup of water into Jeremiah’s line of sight.  

“Ugh, okay,” he groaned.  Without stopping, he tilted the cup back and drained in in three big gulps.  His stomach gurgled with the influx of more liquid and then flipped.

“Yep,” he gagged, dropping the cup onto the floor and leaning further into the bowl.  “Coming back up.”  

Without warning Drew thumped him on his back and Jeremiah belched up a fountain of liquid.  He barely had time to catch his breath before his stomach spasmed even more violently and he threw up even more violently, gasping and burping between heaves.  Drew had been right; all the liquid would have splashed everywhere if Jeremiah had been sitting up higher.  He tried to catch his breath and ended up choking instead when more energy drink rushed up his throat.  

Drew patted his back.  “Slow breaths, that’s it,” he commanded, helping Jeremiah lean forward to gag up another mouthful.  “Almost done.”  

“I forgot . . . to mention the crash,” Jeremiah mumbled when he’d finally stopped heaving.  His hands were shaking so much that Drew had to hold a fresh cup of water for him to carefully sip.  “I feel like I’ve been run over by a truck.”

“You can include that in the comments after you edit,” promised Drew.  “Now stand up slowly so you don’t pass out. I’m not interested in making a video showing everyone how I treat Dr. TikTok for a concussion.”

“That’ll be next time,” mumbled Jeremiah.

[smartgirrl]

the two-minute rule

the two-minute rule states that if a task can be completed in two minutes or less, you should do it immediately.

the benefits

momentum boost -> each small task completed adds to a sense of progress, motivating you to tackle larger tasks.

improved focus -> completing minor tasks frees up mental space, allowing you to concentrate on more complex assignments.

increased self-efficacy -> accomplishing tasks, no matter how small, reinforces your ability to succeed.

how to implement the two-minute rule

take note of tasks that typically linger on your to-do list. for ex:

replying to an email organizing your study space making a short phone call updating your planner or calendar

find moments in your day to tackle quick tasks:

during breaks -> use study breaks to complete small tasks, helping to refresh your mind.

while waiting-> complete tasks while waiting for a class to start or while commuting.

keeping track of completed tasks can further enhance your motivation:

use a checklist -> check off completed tasks to visually represent your progress.

celebrate small wins -> acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how minor, to maintain motivation.

[academiclifexd]

"Navigating Academic Life: Challenges, Growth, and Success"

Academic life is a journey filled with discovery, challenges, and personal growth. Whether you're in high school, college, or pursuing higher education, the experience is a mix of intellectual stimulation, deadlines, social interactions, and self-discovery. While it can be demanding, academic life shapes us into more knowledgeable, disciplined, and resilient individuals.

The Challenges of Academic Life

One of the biggest struggles in academic life is balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. Deadlines pile up, exams bring stress, and sometimes, motivation dwindles. Many students face the pressure of maintaining good grades while also managing part-time jobs, social life, and mental well-being. Procrastination and burnout are common pitfalls, making time management a crucial skill to develop.

Another challenge is adapting to different learning styles and expectations. Each subject, professor, or institution may require unique approaches to studying. Some thrive in structured environments, while others struggle to keep up with fast-paced lectures and independent learning. The key to overcoming these obstacles is resilience—learning how to adapt, seek help when needed, and continuously refine one's study habits.

The Growth and Rewards

Despite the challenges, academic life offers immense rewards. Education is not just about memorizing facts; it's about learning how to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. The knowledge gained from academics serves as a foundation for future careers and personal growth.

Beyond academics, students build lifelong friendships, network with mentors, and develop skills that extend beyond the classroom. College and university life, in particular, expose students to diverse perspectives, fostering cultural awareness and open-mindedness. These experiences help shape character and prepare individuals for the complexities of the real world.

Keys to Success in Academic Life

To make the most of academic life, students should focus on effective study techniques, time management, and self-care. Here are some essential tips for success:

1. Develop Good Study Habits – Find what works best for you, whether it’s group study sessions, note-taking techniques, or online resources. The freedom to explore various subjects and activities allows you to discover your true passions. For many, this period is a time of self-discovery—identifying what truly drives you, what you care about, and how you wish to contribute to the world. It’s a time when failures are reframed as learning opportunities, and success is measured not just in grades but in personal fulfillment and growth.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely – Prioritize tasks, break them into manageable parts, and avoid last-minute cramming. Time management is more than just a productivity hack; it’s a cornerstone of academic success. By managing your time wisely, you can reduce stress, improve your academic performance, and create a healthier work-life balance. It enables you to allocate sufficient time for studying, engaging in extracurricular activities, and enjoying personal downtime—all essential for a well-rounded academic experience.

3. Seek Help When Needed – Utilize professors' office hours, join study groups, or seek academic support services. Academic life is often associated with long hours of studying, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure to perform well. While pursuing education is a rewarding journey, it can also be physically and mentally demanding. Many students push themselves to the limit, often neglecting their health in the process. However, one of the most important lessons in academic life is knowing when to ask for help—especially when it comes to health.

4. Stay Healthy – Sleep, nutrition, and exercise play a significant role in concentration and overall well-being. Good health plays a crucial role in a student’s ability to focus, retain information, and perform well in their studies. When students neglect their health, whether by skipping meals, sacrificing sleep, or ignoring stress, their academic performance can suffer. Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and weakened immunity are just some of the consequences of poor health habits. On the other hand, a healthy lifestyle enhances brain function, boosts energy levels, and improves mood, making learning more effective and enjoyable.

5. Embrace Challenges – Academic setbacks are part of the journey. Learn from mistakes and keep pushing forward. Every academic challenge encountered is also a lesson in perseverance. Learning to navigate through these challenges not only prepares you for professional success but also equips you with life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Conclusion

Academic life is not just about achieving grades or obtaining degrees—it’s a vibrant chapter in the larger story of who we are. It’s about cultivating curiosity, overc

[animehideout]

Hiiii<33💙🎀

Random question my dear poem enjoyer. Which JJK character do you think would be good at tutoring the reader in History? (Guess what, I always had and still have a hard time with the subject :D)

I really am just sitting at my desk ATM, learning for tomorrow, just saw somewhat difficult words and was like "Okay, what- 😀" and started thinking of "Hmmm, I have to copy my poems in my poem exercise book, OH AND WRITING, I kinda wanna finish my draft- anyway, back to History-"

SENDING HUGGIES!!💙

-Megan💙

Hiii Megan 💙

Good luck with this subject sweetheart, you've got this!! You can do it sweetie 🫶🏻

Make sure to drink a lot of water and to stay warm, the weather is really cold and also don't overwork yourself, make sure to rest 💙

So for your question, two characters came to my mind, first Nanami Kento and Megumi Fushiguro!!!!!

I feel like Nanami would be that strict yet gentle tutor and Megumi would be your classmate who agreed or volunteered to help you with the subject but both of them would be amazing tutors tbh 🩵

I hope these headcanons help you relax and motivate you to study ✨

♡⁠˖Nanami˖⁠♡

Nanami i feel like he's got a lot of patience to help you learn more and answer all of your questions.

He would put a lot of importance on details while tutoring you, like he'd follow a very strict teaching approach to make sure you understand everything in a chronological order, from timelines, to places, to names, to different events.

He's good at answering challenging questions and he urges you to have debates with him so you can improve your understanding of certain topics.

Also I feel like Nanami would make the subject come to life, from the way he narrates historical events. He'll make it enjoyable.

He understands your learning style and he's cool with explaining the same thing many times in a row, that's how patient he is 🤌🏻🩵.

Maybe he'd bring you snacks to motivate you to study 🍫🧃.

Also would encourage you a lot and compliments you whenever you get the right answer.

His voice would be so calm and smooth when teaching, it puts you at ease and helps you focus.

♡⁠˖Megumi˖⁠♡

Megumi is known for his excellent intellect and calm demeanor, so he'd be the perfect tutor as well.

I feel like he's into background music, instrumentals or even Rain Asmr, maybe scented candles as well, you know just to set a calming and serene mood to help you relax while studying 😌🌧️.

Also he's very confident in his skills, so he'd know exactly the appropriate teaching methods he'll use to ensure that you're into the subject.

He's also patient, wouldn't rush you in the learning process. If you're having a hard time to get or memorize something he'll give you time to concentrate.

He'd encourage you to ask questions. He helps you understand contexts first instead of throwing random information.

He supports understanding over memorizing, he believes that once you understand something, it will automatically gets stuck in your mind 💯.

Would let you take a break if you're having a hard time, he won't push too hard, he believes that if someone is stressed they shouldn't exhaust their minds, instead calm down a bit then get back to work with a refreshed mind ✨.

I don't see him complimenting vocally but instead he'd nod in agreement and tells you that you've got this. He's good with following your flow 🌊.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive (Daily updates!)

By Nikhil Prasad

Long COVID continues to baffle scientists and frustrate patients. Many individuals who had mild or moderate COVID-19 report persistent symptoms that affect their daily lives. Among these lingering issues, cognitive problems - often referred to as "brain fog" - are widely reported. This Medical News sheds light on a recent study conducted by researchers from the Montreal Heart Institute and the Montreal Health Innovations Coordinating Center-Canada, in collaboration with Inogen in California-USA, that explores whether oxygen therapy could help alleviate cognitive issues in long COVID sufferers.

The Study: Portable Oxygen Therapy in Focus The research team investigated if providing additional oxygen to long COVID patients could help them think more clearly and potentially improve cognitive function. The study involved 21 participants who were given oxygen through portable oxygen concentrators for three hours daily over two weeks. For comparison, they also experienced two weeks of standard care without any supplemental oxygen.

Understanding the Methods Behind the Study Researchers used a variety of tests to assess cognitive function, including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), which evaluates different aspects of cognition like memory, attention, and executive function. They also used tools to measure depressive symptoms, anxiety levels, and functional status. Oxygen levels in the brain and peripheral regions were measured using specialized devices during both rest and treadmill exercise.

Cognitive Test Findings: Improvements in Key Areas One of the most intriguing findings was that participants using oxygen therapy showed slight improvements in cognitive scores on specific tests. The MoCA results hinted at better performance, particularly in areas related to visuospatial/executive skills and attention. These findings align with common cognitive complaints from long COVID patients, suggesting that oxygen therapy might support improvements in attention and mental clarity. However, the overall impact on memory and other cognitive functions was limited, as many patients were already performing within a normal cognitive range at the study's start.

Mood and Mental Health Benefits of Oxygen Therapy In addition to cognition, the study explored how oxygen therapy impacted participants' psychological health. Patients using oxygen reported feeling slightly less depressed than those who did not receive supplemental oxygen. This was particularly noticeable in areas tied to enjoyment of daily activities and the ability to concentrate - both of which are significant struggles for long COVID patients. The study found that portable oxygen concentrators could have a subtle yet positive impact on mental health, reducing some depressive symptoms, particularly feelings of detachment or inability to concentrate.

Oxygen Levels During Exe rcise: No Significant Change Noted The research measured cerebral and peripheral oxygen saturation during both rest and exercise, aiming to see if oxygen levels improved significantly with supplemental therapy. Surprisingly, no substantial changes were observed in these oxygen levels during either period. This suggests that while portable oxygen therapy may help certain cognitive and mental health areas, it does not necessarily boost oxygen levels in the brain or body during physical activity.

Long COVID and Ongoing Mystery of Cognitive Symptoms Long COVID affects multiple body systems, creating complex issues beyond physical symptoms like fatigue. Cognitive symptoms are particularly troubling for patients and can range from simple forgetfulness to severe difficulty with problem-solving and focusing. Current hypotheses on long COVID suggest that oxygen deprivation in brain tissues might be partly responsible for the cognitive issues. This study points towards the possibility that providing more oxygen, even at a portable level, could help alleviate some cognitive symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Participant Experience with Portable Oxygen Therapy Participants reported positive feedback about the oxygen therapy device’s usability, indicating that the portable concentrators were user-friendly and easy to incorporate into daily life. This acceptance is crucial, as any potential treatment for long COVID must be manageable for patients to use consistently. In total, 70% of participants found the device’s size and weight acceptable, and almost all participants agreed that it was easy to operate.

Conclusions and Future Implications In conclusion, the study highlights the potential for portable oxygen therapy to provide subtle benefits for cognitive function and mental health in individuals struggling with long COVID. While it does not appear to directly impact oxygen saturation levels during physical activity, it may still offer support in specific cognitive and emotional areas. Future research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is essential to determine the full benefits of oxygen therapy and to confirm these preliminary findings.

The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: PLOS ONE. journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0312735

[stellarwhisper]

Astrology and Education: How Your Chart Affects Study Routines and Professional Choices

Mercury signs have an impact on study techniques and habits. Signs with distinct study habits include Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Taurus is methodical and pragmatic, whereas Aries is fast, vivacious, and employs active ways. Cancer is perceptive and introspective, but Gemini is inquisitive and flexible. Virgo is meticulous, Libra is diplomatic, Scorpio is intense, Sagittarius is philosophical, Capricorn is disciplined, Aquarius is inventive, Pisces is imaginative, and Leo is theatrical and creative.

Effective study techniques for people with Mercury in Pisces or the 12th house include journaling, spaced repetition, visual and aural learning, creative expression, meditation, and subconscious learning. Learning can be reinforced through creative expression, auditory resources, visual assistance, and regular review. Passive listening and meditation can improve concentration and memory. Journaling can help identify problem areas and match study strategies to a person's preferred learning style.

In a natal chart, the North Node conjunct Midheaven (MC), can show a close relationship between ideals pertaining to love, harmony, and beauty, as well as career advancement and personal development. Learning about harmony, relationships, and beauty may be part of one's life purpose, and social skills and creativity may be crucial. Beauty, art, diplomacy, or aesthetics may be the focus of a career, and a person's public persona can foster connections. Career success and personal development depend on striking a balance between relationships and work.

In the eighth, eleventh, seventh, or twelfth houses, the North Node stands for life lessons and personal development. Understanding intimacy, accepting vulnerability, and accepting change are important themes in the eighth house. The eleventh house emphasizes social duty, vision, creativity, and community and friendship. While the 12th house promotes spiritual development, healing, and ego release, the 7th house places more emphasis on harmonious relationships, teamwork, and balance. The 8th house stresses transition, intimacy, and accepting change, whereas the 12th house promotes creativity and isolation. Every placement presents different chances for personal development and satisfaction.

Honesty, strong emotions, breaking taboo subjects, a magnetic yet erratic dual perspective, judgment and misunderstanding, family dynamics, and the battle for acceptance are characteristics of Lilith-Moon traits. Since honesty is refreshing and strong emotions are intense, these characteristics show up in interpersonal dynamics and self-perception. They are both captivating and erratic, challenging social conventions surrounding emotional expression. Women who are criticized may project their own fears onto them, which might cause them to feel alone or misunderstood. The need for approval might conflict with social demands to adopt a more acceptable emotional state, and family relationships may involve feeling misinterpreted or called "too emotional."

According to astrology, each sign of the zodiac has a ruling planet that affects its traits. In a natal chart, the planet that rules a house is regarded as that house's ruler. For instance, Mars contributes aggressiveness and passion to creativity, Venus stresses harmony and beauty in the 4th House, and Saturn affects values, belongings, and self-worth in the 2nd House.

The 11th house's first house ruler represents striking a balance between community and individualism. Deep friendships, independence, intellectual and creative insight, a desire to stand out, high moral standards, a rebellious disposition, psychic talents, social climbing, financial orientation, and profound friendships are all valued by them. They are driven by a combination of individual ambitions and group objectives, and they frequently provide distinctive viewpoints to their friendships. They might embrace unusual ideas or lifestyles, have high moral standards, and be drawn to avant-garde concepts.

With an emphasis on depth, intensity, intrigue, mystery, emotional resonance, complicated characters, and psychological depth, Venus in Scorpio is drawn to intricate storylines. They value narratives that delve into intensely felt subjects, intricate character relationships, and the human condition, mirroring their own intricacies and the complex nature of love and bonding. Their preference for complex media is consistent with their need for genuineness.

Venus in the fifth house is renowned for emphasizing happiness, originality, and self-expression, especially in the fields of romance and the arts. Romantic joy, self-expression and creativity via music, art, or performance, a desire for recognition, playfulness in romantic relationships, and a connection to pleasure are all important characteristics. Through romantic partnerships, lighthearted exchanges, and a connection to life's joys, these characteristics enhance happiness.

The Sun in the tenth house suggests that one's personal identity and professional goals are highly aligned. Career focus, public recognition, leadership potential, a feeling of purpose, and a drive for achievement are important characteristics. These characteristics contribute to personal fulfillment and elevate one's career to a significant part of their sense of self. A strong public persona can result from achieving professional fulfillment and public recognition.

[dojae-huh]

x(.)com/jwoosworld/status/1866499015862526273?t=8ciz9eG8A7xH0Eu4-UykFw&s=19 How can he does all of this? Along with TMWL rehearsal, the momentum practice, SMtown practice, studying Korean history, preparing for 2nd album, and a bunch of filming for variety show contents. His time management skill is insane

Link

I would like to know as well. I fear, he has a Time-turner in his possession.

Great news, though. And I'm not even surprised, heh. Who if not Doyoung?.. I knew Doyoung would eventually secretly finish school (he can't go to a Uni without a high school diploma), but never imagined a special major like musical theatre.

So, Do and Woo both attended and participated in the graduation performance, their classmates are posting pictures now.

First of all, what this OP said.

One of the reasons people dream of being famous or becoming this or that and never achieving it is that they don't really want that. Their brain is happy just sitting on a sofa with beer in hand and a tv in front. A burrow to hide, a blanket to keep warm, food in the stomack, entertainment - what else to want? All basic needs are covered. Even sex is substituted with wifus/husbandos for most.

Those people who desperately want something have the will to do it by all means. Even if it means practicing choreos till 5 a.m. and going to school afterwards (Jae's case) or learning 2 new languages (Ten's case). Read about explorers of the past deciding to go and freeze to death in pursue of the dream to be the first in human history to reach the North or the South pole.

Doyoung is also an exeption to the rule. He is a workaholic and needs to do as much as possible, he is hungry for more achievements. He has both mental energy for that and will to push himself. Maybe sometimes to unhealthy lengths, but so far he seems to balance it well and shows improvement on the mental front actually. He also has great memory, which allows him to quickly learn (in shorter time and on the go, with less concentration) and memorise lots of faces (social connections). Do evidently also is very good at shifting his focus, doing lots of tasks in parallel (the way we saw him thinking over his solo album direction during commute). Others would be overwhelmed, it requires a trained brain.

Doyoung is assisted with the time management a lot by the agency. He doesn't need to cook, to plan the route, to order tickets and work on visas, to submit documents, to wait at the bus stops, even to choose clothes. He goes from place to place in the most convenient manner, in a personal van or first class flights. All of this both saves him time (he can learn Japanese words or a musical script in the van, for example, he is not the one driving) and mental energy (he is not making mini-choices, everyday decisions (the act of choosing eats up mental energy a lot), as well as he is not fighting "I don't want to" as much).

Doyoung also gets rewarded on a regular basis. He is given his energy back, he gets confirmation that he is moving in the right direction, that the effort is worth it, the goal is within his reach.

Lastly. Doyoung smartly unites a lot of things. For example, this musical theatre programme thing. Surely, him doing Marie gave him points on multiple subjects without attending any lectures or practices in the school. Maybe the public history exam he took way back also was counted. He will get a diploma that will both work for him as a mucial actor and for any future Uni he will go into.

He wanted to strengthen his friendship with Johnathan. He is doing it while shooting programmes (MukChu and I live alone). He went to Japan for a tv-programme, visited Disney land to unwind a bit, and did a vlog at the same time.

Still, as I said already, he is an exeption. Very few people are capable of pushing themselves this much and being able to shift from one task to a very different one (school->BA duties->musical->concert practice->history channel->meeting withJeno->2nd album) so productively.

That's why we stan!

[skwpr]

WHAT IS POMODORO AND WHAT DO YOU EAT IT WITH?

First… what is the Pomodoro method?!

The Pomodoro (Italian for tomato) technique was created by Francesco Cirillo in the 80s. Cirillo is an author and owner of a consulting company. He created this time managing technique that breaks down your study time into manageable intervals with breaks between each study session. With the countless distractions we have today, there’s no wonder it is still one of the most popular and helpful techniques for increasing productivity!

1. You need to plan your tasks

This will help you gauge how many sessions you will need. Will you be reading? Watching a lecture and taking notes? When planning what I will study, I know that watching a lecture and taking notes will take me sooo much longer than doing a reading or flashcards (less strenuous things). I also know that my core science courses will typically take much more studying time than one of my electives.

Determine what is most time-consuming and plan accordingly. The Pomodoro method is perfect for concentrating on any task, but you want to have in mind the classes that require more focus and time than others.

2. Set a 25-minute timer

25 minutes is only a recommendation and you can increase the time or lower it depending on how long you believe you can stay focused without interruptions. I mean, I don’t recommend you set a 5-minute timer to study and then a 5-minute break. But a session somewhere between 20-30 minutes is great (and how long I set my timer while studying)!

One other thing that Cirillo notes is that this time cannot be broken. You must work the entire 25 minutes without any distractions! One of my favorite ways to cancel out distractions is to:

-Put my phone in another room, or in my closet

-Or use the Forest app, which is a timer app that restricts you from leaving the app while completing work/other tasks. This guarantees I stay on task the whole time I am working!

3. Set a 5-minute timer for a break

Between each 25-minute study session, you need a break. You deserve it! So Cirillo recommends only a 5-minute break in between each study session. Do something that doesn’t bring you stress.

Tip: Make sure you do NOT work throughout the break at all. This break is meant to be a relaxing period to take your mind off of your work.

4. Repeat the process 3 times

This studying technique includes four sessions. So do this same process 3 more times. Work diligently and remember to stay focused.

5. After your 4th session, extend the break time to 20-30 minutes long

Once you have finished your fourth session, take a longer break! This is a huge accomplishment and after you have completed it, you will (and should) be so proud. The longer break allows you to take your mind off of your work and reset so you can get back into it.

Why It Benefits You...

IT WORKS FOR ANY TASK

Don’t think I only use this productivity hack for studying! This can be used while cleaning, organizing, reading, and so many other things! Remember, you can tweak the time frames depending on the task and depending on how much time you have to complete it. This is an amazing life hack that I believe everyone should be implementing to help with time management.

IMPROVES CONCENTRATION

Like I noted earlier, this is a distraction-free strategy! It’s on you to remove the distractions from your sessions, and when you do, you will see significant improvements in your work ethic. This technique was created to allow complete concentration on the task at hand. It will improve your focus, productivity, and concentration.

BEATS PROCRASTINATION

The Pomodoro technique breaks the time down into consumable segments. Would you feel more confident with saying you will study for 2 hours or 4 sessions of 25 minutes? I’m confident I would choose the latter every single time. This technique gives our brains manageable chunks of time to study so we result in more work getting done in the end. So just start working!

REMEMBER TO UTILIZE YOUR BREAKS

by Ania Henderson

[official-wonho]

[INTERVIEW] Between a U.S. tour, plans for a future album, and a European comeback, South Korean superstar WONHO is ready to peel back the layers and take on the world once again.

Talking over Zoom with South Korean superstar WONHO feels like a cosy catch-up with a long-distance friend. Dialling in from Seoul with an iced latte in hand, he radiates the kind of warmth that makes the distance between us feel like a minor technicality. There’s a certain duality in the way he approaches our conversation: a playful yet shy and bashful smile lights up his face when we revisit older moments from his career so far; a quieter, contemplative energy takes over when the questions push him to reflect more deeply. Above all, WONHO appears genuinely excited to talk about his music and growth, regardless of our late 10 PM timeslot.

Although most artists are expected to be “on” for every fan interaction or media appearance, there’s an authenticity with WONHO that feels unfiltered and entirely natural. That sincerity has always been a defining trait of his artistry, but it feels particularly resonant now as he re-emerges into the public eye.

Our conversation marks WONHO’s return following two years of mandatory military service. For male idols, the hiatus is often clouded by uncertainty; fans are left hoping for their return, while artists are left wondering who will still be waiting. Fans are loyal, yes, but two years without new content or live performances can feel like an eternity—especially in the hyperactive world of K-pop, where multiple comebacks in a single year are the norm and the pressure to stay relevant is constant. 

True to his character, WONHO took those two years to focus on self-improvement, both as a person and an artist. It’s a testament to his connection with his fans, known as WENEE (a name with dual meanings: “WE are NEw Ending” and “WE NEED”). If you’ve followed WONHO’s story, you’ll know that his relationship with his fans is more than a typical idol-fan connection. It’s steadfast, even symbiotic. Their unwavering support during his hiatus has become an anchor for WONHO, and he doesn’t take that for granted. “I truly exist because of them. They are the reason I sing,” he says simply when we talk about his fans, his voice softening in a way that makes it impossible to doubt his sincerity.

Now, with his first post-service single, “What Would You Do,” WONHO is once again staking his claim for the crown. The English R&B-tinged track, which he describes as “a new challenge,” feels like a fresh direction, showcasing his knack for intimate, emotionally layered storytelling.

Between a US tour and plans for an eventual album and European comeback, WONHO is ready to peel back the layers and take on the world once again. WONHO isn’t just back; he’s better, bolder, and more concentrated than ever.

Firstly, congratulations on completing your military service. It’s interesting that today marks two years since you announced your enlistment. Looking back to that moment, what advice would you give to your younger self—not just as an artist, but as a person about to step into that chapter?

Wonho: I would tell my younger self to focus on learning new skills, especially in music, and to always prioritise his health. I’d encourage him to keep improving his music skills and to study more—particularly English—so he can grow both personally and professionally.

During that time, how did you stay motivated creatively? Did stepping away from the industry give you new perspectives on your artistry or the stories you wanted to tell in your music?

W: While I was serving, I made an effort to continuously listen to music and hold onto that connection to stay true to myself as a musician. Experiencing so many new things in the military gave me fresh ideas and perspectives, which I believe will help me create music in the future.

As someone who has followed your journey closely, I’ve always admired how deeply you express love and gratitude for WENEE, especially in songs like “Losing You,” which is dedicated to your fandom. Did your time away deepen your understanding of that connection with your fans? What does it mean to you now?

W: WENEE is my everything. I truly exist because of them. They are the reason I sing—they listen to my music and give me the strength to perform. I would say they’re like my heart.

You’re now diving back into music, and we’re all excited about your return and the new music coming out. I’m curious—are there any specific themes or emotions that feel important to you to share with your fans in this new phase of your career? Is there something you’ve been waiting to say?

W: There’s nothing particularly specific, but with the new single coming out, along with upcoming performances in the US and other countries, I’m excited to share those moments with WENEE. I’m also continuing to prepare for a new album in the future, and that’s something I really want to share with them as well.

Your lyrics often feel very personal, and I think that’s one of the reasons why your music resonates with me. Since you write your own lyrics, I was curious— is there a lyric or song from your catalogue that feels especially meaningful to you right now?

W: Right now, I would focus on my newest song, “What Would You Do,” since that’s what I’m concentrating on the most. The title itself—”What Would You Do”—encapsulates a lot of different emotions. So, at the moment, it feels the most meaningful to me.

Read full article on: wonderlandmagazine.com

[easy-piano-tutorial]

Hindi Instrumental songs | Bollywood Piano Jukebox | A R Rahman, Arijit Singh, Sonu Nigam

Best Bollywood Instrumental Piano Jukebox �� Relaxing Hindi Songs for Work, Study & Sleep

Bollywood music has always been known for its soul-stirring melodies and timeless compositions. Whether it's the soothing voice of Arijit Singh, the mesmerizing tunes of A.R. Rahman, or the golden hits of Kumar Sanu, Bollywood has produced countless classics. But have you ever experienced these melodies in a purely instrumental piano version? If not, you’re in for a treat!

Why Choose Bollywood Instrumental Piano Music?

Bollywood piano instrumental music brings a refreshing take on your favorite Hindi songs by removing the vocals and letting the melody speak for itself. It creates a peaceful and soothing ambiance, making it perfect for various activities, including:

✔️ Relaxation & Stress Relief – Calm your mind with soft and soulful instrumental tunes. ✔️ Studying & Focus – Enhance concentration with background music that keeps distractions at bay. ✔️ Work & Productivity – Create a positive work environment with gentle piano melodies. ✔️ Meditation & Sleep – Drift into tranquility with peaceful Bollywood instrumental music. ✔️ Romantic Vibes – Enjoy soft and romantic Bollywood songs played on the piano.

Timeless Bollywood Classics in Instrumental Piano Version

This Bollywood instrumental piano jukebox includes hit songs from the 90s to recent times, featuring legendary artists and composers like:

🎶 A.R. Rahman – Roja, Taal, Dil Se, Bombay 🎶 Sonu Nigam – Kal Ho Naa Ho, Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin 🎶 Arijit Singh – Tum Hi Ho, Agar Tum Saath Ho 🎶 KK – Zara Sa, Tadap Tadap Ke 🎶 Alka Yagnik – Ae Mere Humsafar, Tera Chehra 🎶 Kumar Sanu – Tujhe Dekha Toh, Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin

Perfect for Every Mood & Occasion

Whether you're unwinding after a long day, studying for exams, or looking for the perfect background music while working, Bollywood instrumental piano music provides the ideal setting. The instrumental versions of these iconic songs retain their emotional essence while offering a more calming and immersive listening experience.

How Bollywood Instrumental Music Helps in Relaxation?

Instrumental music, especially piano covers, helps in reducing stress, improving focus, and creating a peaceful atmosphere. Without lyrics, the music allows the mind to stay engaged without being distracted, making it an excellent choice for work, study, or meditation.

Where to Listen to Bollywood Piano Instrumental Music?

You can find a beautiful collection of Bollywood instrumental songs on YouTube, Spotify, and various streaming platforms. If you enjoy relaxing piano melodies, don't forget to check out the latest Bollywood Piano Instrumental Jukebox featuring some of the most iconic Hindi songs.

📢 Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel for more soulful Bollywood instrumental music! 🎶 https://www.youtube.com/@instrumentalsukanta

Final Thoughts

Bollywood instrumental piano music is not just entertainment; it's an experience. It lets you relive your favorite melodies in a unique way while helping you relax, focus, and feel at peace. So, whether you're a music lover, a student, or someone looking to unwind, dive into the magical world of Bollywood instrumentals today!

Let the melodies speak, let the piano sing – Experience Bollywood like never before! 🎹🎶

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[brainanalyse]

Can You Meditate with Music

Introduction

Meditation is a practice that has been embraced by cultures worldwide for centuries, providing a path to mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth. In recent years, meditation has gained mainstream popularity as more people seek to find peace and balance in their hectic lives. As this ancient practice evolves, many wonder if incorporating music into meditation is beneficial. So, can you meditate with music? Let’s explore this harmonious blend of sound and silence.

Understanding Meditation

Definition and Purpose Meditation is the practice of focusing the mind to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. It often involves techniques such as mindfulness, concentration, and breath control to bring awareness and inner peace.

Different Types of Meditation

From mindfulness and transcendental meditation to guided and loving-kindness meditation, there are various forms to suit different needs and preferences. Each type focuses on different aspects of mental and emotional well-being.

Benefits of Meditation

Meditation has been shown to reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, improve concentration, and promote emotional health. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to enhance their overall quality of life.

The Role of Music in Meditation

History of Music in Meditation Practices Music has long been intertwined with meditation practices across cultures. From ancient chants and hymns to modern-day sound therapy, music has been used to elevate the meditative experience.

Why Use Music During Meditation? Music can serve as a powerful aid in meditation by providing a soothing background that helps the mind focus and relax. It can enhance the ambiance, making it easier to enter a meditative state.

Scientific Perspective on Music and Meditation Studies have shown that music can influence brain waves, promoting a state of relaxation. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of certain types of music can aid in achieving a meditative state more quickly and deeply.

Types of Music for Meditation

Nature Sounds The sounds of nature, such as ocean waves, rain, or birdsong, can be incredibly calming and help ground the mind.

Instrumental Music Soft, instrumental music without lyrics can provide a tranquil background that supports meditation.

Binaural Beats These are specific sound frequencies that can help synchronize brain waves and promote relaxation and focus.

Guided Meditations These involve spoken word guidance along with music, helping to direct your meditation practice.

Benefits of Meditating with Music

Enhanced Relaxation Music can help relax the body and mind, making it easier to let go of stress and tension.

Improved Focus The right music can help maintain focus by providing a constant, soothing background that keeps distractions at bay.

Stress Reduction Listening to calming music during meditation can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Emotional Release Music can evoke emotions and facilitate emotional processing, allowing for deeper emotional healing during meditation.

How to Choose the Right Music for Meditation

Personal Preferences Your personal taste in music plays a crucial role. Choose music that resonates with you and helps you relax.

Matching Music to Meditation Goals Different types of meditation might benefit from different types of music. For example, nature sounds might be ideal for mindfulness meditation, while binaural beats could enhance concentration practices.

Popular Music Choices for Meditation Some popular choices include ambient music, classical pieces, and nature sounds. Experiment to find what works best for you.

Tips for Meditating with Music Setting the Right Environment Create a peaceful and comfortable space free from distractions.

Using Headphones vs. Speakers Headphones can provide an immersive experience, while speakers can fill the room with sound. Choose based on your preference.

Creating a Playlist Curate a playlist that suits your meditation session. This prevents the need to search for tracks mid-meditation.

Common Misconceptions About Meditating with Music

Music as a Distraction Some believe that music might distract from the meditation practice, but the right music can enhance focus and relaxation.

Music Reducing the Effectiveness of Meditation Music, when chosen mindfully, can deepen the meditative experience rather than detract from it.

Combining Music with Different Meditation Techniques Mindfulness Meditation with Music Music can anchor the mind, making it easier to stay present.

Mantra Meditation with Music Background music can complement mantra repetition, adding depth to the practice.

Movement Meditation with Music Music can guide and enhance movement-based meditations like yoga or tai chi.

Case Studies and Personal Experiences

Real-life Examples Many practitioners have found that music enhances their meditation practice, helping them reach deeper states of relaxation and awareness.

Testimonials People often report feeling more at ease and focused when meditating with music, highlighting the personal benefits they’ve experienced.

Potential Downsides and How to Overcome Them

Dependency on Music Some may become reliant on music to meditate. It’s essential to also practice meditation without music to maintain versatility.

Difficulty in Finding Suitable Music With so many options available, finding the right music can be challenging. Trial and error will help you discover what works best for you.

Music Genres to Explore for Meditation

Classical Music Works by composers like Bach and Mozart can provide a serene backdrop for meditation.

Ambient Music Ambient tracks are designed to create a calming atmosphere and are perfect for meditation.

Ethnic and World Music Traditional music from various cultures can add a unique and enriching element to your practice.

Conclusion

Meditating with music can be a profoundly enriching experience, adding an extra layer of depth and relaxation to your practice. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just starting, experimenting with different types of music can help you find what works best for you. Remember, meditation is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. So, tune in, relax, and let the music guide you.

FAQs

Can Music Distract You During Meditation? It can, if not chosen carefully. Select music that enhances focus and relaxation.

What Type of Music is Best for Beginners? Beginners might find nature sounds or gentle instrumental music most helpful.

How Loud Should the Music Be? Keep the volume low enough to hear but not so loud that it overpowers your thoughts.

Can You Meditate with Any Music? Not all music is suitable. Choose tracks that promote calmness and focus.

Is it Necessary to Use Music for Effective Meditation? No, it’s not necessary. It’s a personal preference and can be used to enhance the practice.